Mamma Mia! Shields Skopelos From Crisis

Mayor of Skopelos Christos Vasiloudis recently expressed his optimism for 2009 as he expects a 10-15 percent rise in arrivals.

According to press reports, Mr. Vasiloudis said that thanks to the musical “Mamma Mia!” bookings are on a good level and couples influenced by the movie have even arranged to be wed on the island.

“Employment on Skopelos is at a good pace as three travel agencies that specialize in wedding receptions have opened on the island due to high demand,” said the mayor.

Press reports also mention that sales of low-cost easyJet flights to Athens have risen by 13 percent since the film’s release.

The airline company has announced six new services to Greece, while British charter Monarch Airlines has launched two extra flights to Volos from where travelers can continue on to Skopelos Island.

Thomas Cook, one of Britain’s largest tour operators, reported a sharp rise in bookings to Greece in recent weeks.