The Greek island of Rhodes has received such a high amount of bookings from holidaymakers that many of its hotels have opened early to deal with the demand.
According to the local tourist board, a 10 per cent increase in bookings has meant that instead of opening in May, the hotels are taking guests from the first half of April this year.
Reasons for this increase in arrivals include both the recent turmoil in North Africa – which have sent tourists packing to more European destinations in the Mediterranean – and the back-to-back bank holidays at the end of April, both boosting opportunities for the island’s holiday trade.
The recent uprisings in Tunisia and Egypt have diverted more holiday makers to Rhodes. This, combined with higher prices and overbooking in Turkey, which lies close to the island, has meant more tourists are choosing Rhodes for their summer break.
The PR manager for the Rhodes Tourism in the UK, Tom Panagos, commented on Rhodes’ current good fortune: “The recent developments in other Mediterranean countries are making people rediscover old favourites.”
“Although Rhodes is a well-established destination for the UK market, our product is anything but tired.”
Rhodes is currently expanding its range of hotels with the Sheraton Rhodes and the Atrium Platinum scheduled to open this year.
Holidays in Rhodes always receive a boost in interest over the summer period, with more favourable weather perfect for exploring the island’s cultural attractions, as well as checking out the restaurants and bars.
