Yiannis Stefanides

Chairman,
Hellenic Tourism Organization

Philoxenia 2000 greeting.

Philoxenia, for years now, consists of one of the most important institutions for our tourism. This importance has been steadily strengthened in the conscience of all sectors of the tourism industry. The fair has become a fertile plain where all professionals of the trade have the opportunity to meet one another, to exchange positive experiences, and to ‘meet’ with the public and the users of their services. In short, Philoxenia links and displays all the powers of modern tourism Greece on a full scale.

Meanwhile, this year’s Philoxenia coincides with two important events that take on symbolic dimensions.

The year 2000, symbolic in itself, creates the critical link in the change of times. In other words, it easily promotes the particularly positive possibilities that Greek tourism presents in the coming years. This is especially true in view of the critical challenges it has to confront, such as the adoption of the euro and the organization of the 2004 Olympic Games.

At the same time, this year completes 25 years of Greek Travel Pages. This is one exceptional publication that, with its consistent and valuable presence, has contributed decisively in the development of Greek tourism. As well, it has established its role as an easy to use and effective ‘tool’ and a considerable help in the objective and complete presentation of tourism and travel.

With this opportunity, I would like to wish every success in the organization of Philoxenia, and, for Greek Travel Pages, a continuation of its efforts with the same enthusiasm.