As seismic activity decreases in the region around the island of Santorini that saw more than 10,000 mini-quakes and thousands of locals evacuating the island, the Greek government issued a statement that Santorini is ready to welcome the world.
According to a joint press release from the Ministry of Tourism and the Mayor of Thera, Santorini’s main town, the island “is fully prepared for the new tourism season. The island’s infrastructure is operational, the local economy is thriving, and visitors can enjoy its unique natural and cultural wealth in complete safety.”
The statement came at a critical time when cruise companies are preparing for their busy summer seasons and the tourism industry on the island watches with concern how the world will respond.
Tourism Minister, Ms. Olga Kefalogianni, visited the island and took part in extensive meetings with local authorities, confirming, according to the press release that there are no issues with the island’s tourism and essential infrastructure, which are functioning normally.
“Santorini is a safe, well-organized, and responsible tourism destination, fully prepared to welcome travelers from all over the world. With proper management and collaboration, this tourism season will have a positive trajectory for the island. We are not just returning—we are moving forward!”
The government also reassured millions of potential visitors that scientific committees are continuously monitoring the situation to ensure timely and responsible updates and that officials remain on high alert, taking all necessary measures to safeguard the safety of both residents and visitors.
Civil protection plans have been updated, further reinforcing the sense of security to visitors, as well as travel agents who sell tour packages and hotel accommodations to tourists.
Peter Vlitas, Executive Vice President of Internova Travel Group and one of the world’s foremost experts on Greek tourism said the seismic activity shouldn’t keep people away.
“Santorini should be ok as its a unique global destination and the majority of American consumers who had planned to go will go,” Vlitas said. He warned, however, that however “despite the increase of two more additional non stop flights from the United States, Greece will feel the impact of the uncertainty of the American economy, rising hotel costs in Greece and new destinations what will directly compete with Greece.”
The Mayor of Thira, Santorini’s main town, Nikos Zorzos, also sought to express trust and confidence that his island was ready to welcome the world this summer. “Santorini can now operate as a tourist destination just as in previous years. Santorini is ready to welcome tourism,” Zorzos said in the joint statement with the Ministry of Tourism.
According to Alexis Galanopoulos, CEO of OAG Greece, a company specializing in the design and execution of ultra-luxury travel experiences in Greece, the situation across the Aegean islands remains stable and entirely safe.
“The recent seismic activity has not materially affected the operation of the islands, nor the high-level services they continue to offer visitors, Galanopoulos told The Pappas Post, adding that “Santorini, Amorgos, and other beloved destinations in the Aegean are fully prepared to welcome travelers from around the world this season. Cancellations have been minimal, and demand is already showing strong signs of recovery.”
Photo by James Ting on Unsplash
