Dino Frantzeskakis

President,
Hellenic Association of Airline Representatives

Philoxenia 2003 greeting.

The future of Greek Tourism can be bright only if all components which make up this complex services industry agree to a unified medium and long-term strategy. Instead of paying lip service only, both state and private sectors could agree on a joint policy towards upgrading services offered by encouraging investment and offering incentives for quality improvements to the whole spectrum of tourism related services.

Air transportation, ground transportation (taxis, coaches, etc.), sporting and congress facilities, coastal shipping and cruises, hospitality industry, yachting facilities, education and on-going training of all direct contact personnel, local information campaigns for all Greeks explaining the importance of tourism to our economy and finally, proper policing of all tourism locations to ensure tourists are not ripped-off.

It is clear that the private sector should take the lead and advise the state on steps to be taken.

Therefore, it is imperative that a truly representative and strong Chamber of Tourism, encompassing all sectors, should be created and installed as soon as possible, without further delay and definitely before the Athens Olympic games. If we miss this opportunity, when the spotlights of the Olympics are switched-off we will be the losers, if we act now we will be winners.