Greece Prepares Tourism Plan for Quake-hit Samos

Samos island. Photo source: Visit Greece

Greek Tourism Minister Harry Theoharis announced this week that a campaign was being designed to promote Samos as a tourist destination in the coming year.

Theoharis announced the plan, which will include entering agreements for direct international flights to Samos airport as well as a promotional actions, during talks on Tuesday with Samos & Ikaria Hoteliers Association President Manos Valis.

The minister pledged to support tourism professionals on the island which has not only been impacted by the coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic and the inflow of refugees, but also by the earthquake last week which cost the lives of two teenagers.

Valis briefed the minister on the damage caused by the 6.7 Richter temblor and the needs of hospitality professionals and businesses. The minister said he would be in close contact with local tourism stakeholders in order to offer support and aid.

“Tourism on Samos needs immediate support in order to remain sustainable. We exchanged views on how this goal will be achieved from 2021 onwards,” said Theoharis, adding that the minister would also ensure the island would be “represented more systematically at international tourism exhibitions – when these are organized again”.

Last week, Alternate Development Minister Nikos Papathanasis said a set of relief measures was being examined for tourism businesses impacted by the earthquake as well as due to the pandemic.