A large influx of Israeli tourists has been observed this year, according to Deputy Tourism Minister Savva Perdio. Speaking to Politis 107.6 and the “Morning Inspection”, Mr. Perdios noted that the interest is so intense and in addition to the many flights that have already been scheduled, there is a discussion about chartered flights to meet the needs. He also pointed out that travel agents in Israel are pushing for Cyprus to receive tourists before the announced April 1st, and specifically from the 25th of March. As Mr. Perdios explained, there is a strong interest in an early flow of Israelis to Cyprus for holidays during the Jewish Passover week, which this year is between March 25 and April 4.

Tourists from Russia and England

Regarding the other tourist markets which over time show a preference for Cyprus, the Deputy Minister of Tourism noted that in recent days there has been increased interest in bookings by British tourists. As everything shows, the Undersecretary added, “after the statements of the English Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, who said that travel to Great Britain will be allowed from May 17”. Regarding the Russian market, he said that they will probably be entitled to come to Cyprus from April 1, but they will have to be tested and follow the protocol followed for the other tourist markets, which has already been transmitted to all tourist associates of Cyprus. “There is a lot of interest from the Russian market, but at this stage Russia does not allow its citizens to travel abroad. “When this is removed, then the bookings will start,” he said.

The agreement with Royal Caribbean is important

Mr. Perdios also referred to the decision of Royal Caribbean, the largest cruise company in the world, to include Cyprus in its program for the months of June, July and August 2021. He noted that this important agreement for Cyprus was reached after intensive efforts of the Ministry of Tourism, which lasted about six months, after the whole project started in September 2020.

As he said, this cruise program includes departure from Israel, then stops in Cyprus and Greece and finally return to Israel. The ship is expected to approach Cyprus about 15 times, within the quarter June – August 2021, with the prospect of additional stations in the coming months.

According to the Deputy Minister of Tourism, the passengers of the ship will be entirely Israelis, who will have already been vaccinated. In addition, before boarding, travelers will submit two negative tests and, during the cruise, will be subject to additional checks.