Flight programs to Greece: tour operators are waiting for the end of August

On August 21, tour operators in Greece commented on the news about the extension of the ban of the local authorities on the entry of foreign tourists, and also reported how this would affect their programs.

According to them, there is indeed an increase in the number of cases of coronavirus in Greece. “Most of it is connected with the arrival of guests from abroad. So the Greeks introduce certain restrictions and increase security measures in public areas. Despite the fact that there are conditions for normal good holidays, the country is trying to protect itself and tourists. I think the measures are correct,” commented Alexander Tsandekidi, General Director of Mouzenidis Travel.

Currently, the tour operator makes adjustments of the flight program to Greece in accordance with the statements of the official authorities of the two countries. “We will only cancel flights and tours that coincide in time with the period of validity of restrictions on air traffic. As of today, the ban has been extended until August 31. Respectively, and we are canceling tours before this date and shifting them on a later date," Alexander Tsandekidi added.

The tour operator Tez Tour also adheres to a wait-and-see tactic and is in no hurry to cancel the programs. The head of Tez Tour Greece Dimitris Haritidis explains this with the available unofficial information, which gives hope for the opening of the borders for Russian tourists: “If it is not confirmed and the ban continues, we will cancel flights. Clarity should come before the end of August."

Ambotis Holidays is pessimistic. “There is an increase in the number of incidences in Greece - in the last three weeks we see about 250-260 cases per day. I would strongly recommend Russian tourists to postpone their tours up to 2021,” advises Vitaly Stamatov, CEO of the company.