The Minister of Tourism, Ms. Ioanna Dretta, met at the Ministry with representatives of tourism companies, organizations, and initiatives that are dynamically emerging in the market and adding new elements to the Greek tourism product.
These are initiatives with entrepreneurial, social, or voluntary foundations, all actively contributing to integrating the values of sustainable development into tourism, leveraging opportunities, and addressing the ongoing challenges in the sector.
During the meeting, which was marked by interest, ideas were exchanged, and suggestions were made for enriching what Greece offers to its visitors.
Fourteen key areas of action and development were identified and discussed, focusing on enhancing visitor experiences, strengthening the Greek tourism product, and protecting the environment and the identity of destinations.
The Minister of Tourism stated:
“Greek tourism, with its opportunities and ongoing challenges, relies on the hundreds of innovative and creative companies and initiatives across the country to integrate the values of sustainable development into its activities.”
Key Topics Discussed:
- The Composition of Tourism Products: Emphasizing Greece’s resources, innovation, creativity, care, and authenticity. “Alternative Athens” presented its activities, focusing on Athens as a destination, highlighting offerings both near and far from the Acropolis.
- Agro-Food Tourism: Exploring the integration of tourism with agricultural experiences, with Thessaloniki emerging as a growing gastronomic destination. “Chef Stories” presented its initiatives.
- Handicrafts in Tourism: Highlighting creativity and the blend of tradition with aesthetics. “Corfu Design Route” showcased its collaborative approach to product creation.
- Civil Society Actions: Highlighting private funding and corporate social responsibility initiatives for forest protection and restoration. “we4all” shared its extensive activities.
- Reducing Single-Use Plastics: Encouraging hotel businesses to take steps in this area. The “plastick” initiative by “Common Seas” is focused on this goal.
- Greek Agro-Food Products: Showcasing the unique properties of Greek herbs and their potential to act as ambassadors for Greece abroad and enhance local experiences. “Anassa” presented opportunities for leveraging these products.
- Preserving Local Identity: Highlighting its importance for tourism and community engagement. The “Cycladic Identity” initiative by the Museum of Cycladic Art focuses on this mission.
- Inclusivity and Accessibility: Discussing the imperative of accessibility in destinations. “Seatrack” presented advancements in providing sea access for individuals with mobility challenges.
- Supported Employment for People with Autism: Showcasing benefits for individuals and businesses alike. The “Hellenic Supported Employment Organization” shared opportunities in this area.
- Destination Promotion Through Private Initiatives: Highlighting the digitization of tourism experiences. “We Love Aegina” shared its achievements and future goals.
- Emerging Destinations: Focusing on grassroots development and community participation. “Messolongi by Locals” presented its innovative actions.
- Innovation and Digitalization in Cultural Heritage: Enhancing visitor experiences in museums and archaeological sites, particularly during peak times. “Clio Muse” showcased its activities in Greece and abroad.
- Long-Term Stay Tourism: Developing products aimed at extended stays for families, adding value by fostering integration and creating ambassadors for Greece. “Boundless Life” presented its rapid growth.
- Hiking Trails and Nature Tourism: Developing and promoting trails in the Greek countryside. “Paths of Greece” showcased advancements in this field.
