Key Tourism Figures 2019: Theodora Dima, President, Sharing Economy Association in Greece

We strongly believe that short-term rental activity constitutes a part of the Greek tourism industry

The main aspect of the sharing economy in Greece is based on the short-term accommodation industry, which in particular has influenced the way people visit a destination, offering a different authentic and unique way of experiencing a location.

Notably, it helps take advantage of empty and unexploited real estate buildings. Both the real estate industry and the increase of tourism have led to the current growth of the short-term rental activity in Greece.

We strongly believe that the increase of inbound tourism, about 2 more million tourists in 2018, is due to short-term rentals.

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Theodora Dima, President Sharing Economy Association in Greece

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…The short-term rental sector has expanded because it offers authentic experiences to every visitor, indicating unique destinations and a variety of activities that people can experience…

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The main reason that the short-term rental sector has expanded is because it offers authentic experiences to every visitor, indicating unique destinations and a variety of activities that people can experience due to natural beauties, gastronomy and the genuine hospitality of the Greek people which enrich the tourism experience of travellers.

The city of Athens was named Europe’s Leading City Break Destination 2018. It is observed that there is an extension of the tourism season in Greece due to the provided low-cost accommodation options. The short-term rentals have gradually started to be integrated into a new alternative tourism product in Greece, which supports and adds value to the tourism economy.

The sharing economy leads to sustainable growth and it has benefited Greece’s local communities greatly. In 2018, an increase of 1,8 billion euros in tourism was recorded. This amount of money has been distributed to all economy sectors and enterprises.

The main positive impact of short-term rentals is that many small enterprises, startup companies, new investments and new business activity have emerged, which support the regional and local economy and are essential for economic and social prosperity.

Moreover, energy conservation and water management are critical elements for short-term rental activity. Many companies have developed many new automatic mechanisms that reduce energy consumption and fosters environmental sustainability.

We strongly believe that short-term rental activity constitutes a part of the Greek tourism industry while it also boosts the economic growth of local communities.