Key Tourism Figures 2017: Irene Tolis, President Hellenic Association of Professional Congress Organizers

Official Tourism Message

Greece, is a country rich in culture, monuments and artifacts, the inheritance of our great philosophers, poets, sculptors and artists. Since antiquity, Greece has been widely known for its hospitality, “philoxenia” in Greek language. Blessed with a perfectly mild climate and sunshine all year round, makes the country the ideal 4-seasons-destination, apt to welcome millions of tourists every year.

The country’s unique geography, can satisfy the most demanding Meeting Organizers, offering possible venues at the seaside or near the mountain; in the beauty of picturesque villages or in the glam of big cities. With a fleet of world-class hotels, a state-of-the-art International Airport, very efficient sea and land transportation systems, world-class Convention and Exhibition facilities, Greece presents the perfect conditions for recreation in the Meeting Industry, as well as a great option for the pre and post congress period activities.

The Hellenic Association of Professional Congress Organizers – HAPCO was established in 1996 and has been the voice of the Meetings Industry in Greece, ever since. Its main aims? The representation of professional congress organizers, as well as companies offering a broad range of high quality services and value-for-money products relevant to the MICE market, and the promotion, of the country’s conference potentials in national and international level.

Sharing a common strategy with all government stakeholders, HAPCO is working its way towards the Organization’s timeless vision, to make Greece the “ultimate conference destination”.

On behalf of HAPCO’s Board and members, I would like to express my warmest wishes to all the local and overseas visitors, exhibitors and buyers for their efforts in putting together the WTM London 2017 and Philoxenia 2017 and other major Greek events. Finally, Ι would like to address to all, an open invitation to bring your conference or event to Greece, a country that knows well, how to combine an absolute success and a memorable stay.