2019 is a challenging year for the tourism industry in Limassol. Hotel occupancy rates are expected to range from 80 to 85% in July, down by 10% compared to the same month of 2018. In total, bookings for the year are expected to record a small decrease of 5 to 10%, contrary to earlier way more pessimistic forecasts that 2019 would turn out to be a disastrous year for Cyprus tourism in general. Speaking to Entrepreneurial Limassol, the head of the local Hoteliers Association Haris Theocharous pointed out that various factors impact negatively on the tourism industry for 2019, but the tourist product of Limassol has proven to be resistant to shocks and therefore the consequences are limited. For June, hotel occupancy rates reached 80%, while there is an increase of tourists from Germany.
Also, tourist traffic is increasing from most of what can be seen as emerging markets for Limassol tourism, including from central Europe and from Arab countries, such as Lebanon, Jordan and the UAE. On the other hand, a decrease has been noted from the traditionally large markets of Russia and the United Kingdom mainly due to the uncertainty caused by Brexit, the rebounds in exchange rates, but also the closure of Cobalt and, more generally, the problem of air connectivity. As a counterpart, since the beginning of the year there has been a decline in prices and attractive packages are given to tour operators. Limassol, as Mr. Theocharous points out, is relying on the quality of services provided and the continuous upgrading of its tourist product, which was enriched this year with the operation of two new large hotels (Amara and Park Lane), as well as smaller boutique hotels in the city centre. These new units added another 1,300 beds.
The problem of non-licensed accommodations offering hotel services, but without being taxed and controlled, remains unresolved, Mr. Theocharous noted. However, Limassol continues to attract domestic tourism, as the city is established as the main destination for all Cypriots. Attractive packages along with quality services, particularly fascinate young people who choose Limassol also due to the quality options available for night outings. Haris Theocharous stated, there were options available for last minute guests , however, a prerequisite for real opportunities was for reservations to be made on time.
