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Transport And Storage Sector In Cyprus: A Positive Surge In 2024

by News Editor

March 6, 2025

The latest data from Cystat highlights a noteworthy 1.6% increase in the Transport and Storage Turnover Value Index for January through December 2024 compared to the previous year. This demonstrates the sector’s resilience and adaptability in Cyprus.

Breakdown Of Economic Activities

In the fourth quarter of 2024, the index achieved 142.4 points (base year 2021=100) with a notable 2.2% year-on-year growth. Several sub-sectors recorded impressive increases:

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Water Transport: A remarkable rise of 38.6%.
Air Transport: Experienced a significant boost of 22.5%.
Postal and Courier Activities: Gained 10.8%.
Land Transport: Improved by 7.1%.
Warehousing and Support for Transportation: Edged up by 0.4%.

To understand the broader economic effect, it’s interesting to compare these trends against Cyprus’ overall economic landscape. For instance, 2024 was also a groundbreaking year for the island’s tourism sector, boasting a €3.2 billion revenue intake.

This growth across different transportation sectors reflects Cyprus’ strategic positioning and its burgeoning economic potential in the European landscape.

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Airbnb Unveils Reserve Now, Pay Later Option For U.S. Guests

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

August 15, 2025

Introduction

Airbnb has introduced an innovative payment solution designed to enhance user flexibility for U.S. travellers. The new “Reserve Now, Pay Later” feature enables users to secure a booking without an upfront payment, offering a streamlined cancellation process should plans change.

Flexible Payment Terms

This new option applies to listings that feature either flexible or moderate cancellation policies. Under a flexible policy, guests can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours before check-in, while a moderate policy offers no-fee cancellations until five days prior to arrival.

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Payment Timing and Reminders

Regardless of the cancellation window, guests are obligated to complete the full payment before the expiration of the free cancellation period. Airbnb ensures a smooth experience by sending timely payment reminders to avoid any last-minute issues.

Evolution of Airbnb’s Payment Solutions

This initiative builds on Airbnb’s previous forays into flexible payment structures. In 2018, the company offered a partial upfront payment model, and more recently, a collaboration with Klarna enabled guests to pay in four installments over six weeks. Such strategic advancements demonstrate Airbnb’s commitment to adapting and refining its payment solutions to meet evolving consumer demands.

Consumer Insight Driving Innovation

Airbnb’s decision to launch the “Reserve Now, Pay Later” feature reflects robust consumer demand, with recent surveys indicating that 55% of respondents prefer flexible payment options. Additionally, 42% noted missed opportunities due to payment complexities when coordinating with travel companions, underlining the need for simplified financial arrangements.

Conclusion

By enhancing payment flexibility, Airbnb not only broadens its appeal but also addresses critical customer pain points, reinforcing its position as a leader in the evolving travel market. This initiative exemplifies how strategic innovation can drive customer satisfaction in an increasingly competitive landscape.