Despite the fact that in real terms 2013 saw a fall in tourist arrivals in the order of 2,4%, the year’s performance is considered positive given the negative publicity of the unprecedented bailout Cyprus was granted in March 2013, which included a haircut of uninsured deposits in the island’s two largest lenders, he noted. 



At the same time, he added, income from tourism was up by 8% in 2013 in relation to 2012. This was due to a significant rise in average expenditure by visitors to the island. The average expenditure per visit in 2012 came to €866 per person in 2013 compared to €782 per person in 2012, he said, recording an increase of approximately 11%. 


Prospects for 2014 are considered to be positive, particularly for the summer season, Hannides pointed out, adding that flight routes to Cyprus have increased and reservation levels are satisfactory. 



“Our main worry, the crisis in the Ukraine has so far not affected the sector significantly,” he added. 



The scheme aims at rewarding the provision of quality, by tourism related enterprises that adopt a series of set criteria and offer proven added value service. 
Businesses which are awarded the label will be able to quote and display the CTQ logo and use it in their marketing, promotional and wider business activities. 



For clients-consumers the display of a CTQ Label at the entrance of an enterprise would indicate the premise of an upgraded tourist experience, verified through a rigorous process, set and appraised by the island’s National Tourism Organisation.

Source: Financial Mirror