GNTO Introduces Turkish Professionals to Lesser-known Greek Regions

Photo source: GNTO

In an effort to promote Greece’s lesser-known destinations, the Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO) recently showcased the unique experiences of three regions to Turkish tourism professionals.

Specifically, during an event at the Turkish Travel Agents Association (TURSAB) office in Istanbul, the Greek tourism board highlighted the attractions of Central Greece, Western Macedonia, Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, along with Alexandroupolis City, to the Turkish market.

According to Yıldırım Taş, a TURSAB representative, Greece is one of the top destinations “on the minds” of Turkish travelers when traveling abroad.

“Tourism is undoubtedly one of the key sectors that strengthens the friendship between the two countries,” he added, highlighting the fruitful visit of Greek Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni to Istanbul last January.

Photo source: GNTO

Armed with in-depth knowledge of each region’s offerings, local government representatives presented their tourism products, noting that Turkish travelers are keen to learn more about Greece’s travel ecosystem.

Konstantinos Koutras, Consul General of Greece in Istanbul, confirmed this positive trend, emphasizing the strong mutual interest of citizens from both countries in visiting each other.

“The presence of representatives from the Greek regions and their collaboration with Turkish counterparts offers another opportunity to further strengthen relations between the two countries in tourism,” Koutras said.

He noted that the popularity and widespread acceptance of seven-day visas for ten Greek islands by Turkish travelers marks another step toward strengthening ties between the two countries.

On her part, Dimitra Bambali, head of GNTO’s branch in Türkiye, highlighted the importance of tourism as a bridge between the two nations, capable of overcoming prejudice.