Statements by the re-elected President of CHA Limassol, Christos Tsanos, to "Entrepreneurial Limassol"
The fact that major conferences and summits organized by technology and innovation companies, along with the presence of international businesses in Limassol, are serving as a crucial counterbalance to the losses recorded in the city's tourism sector was highlighted by the re-elected President of Cyprus Hotel Association (CHA) Limassol, Christos Tsanos, in an interview with "Entrepreneurial Limassol".
Mr. Tsanos appeared cautiously optimistic about the latest developments in tourism following the end of the war, noting, however, that the positive outlook came with a delay. As he explained, the market had already suffered a significant setback during the first months of 2026, since visitors who choose Cyprus and Limassol typically decide on their destination well in advance. He explained that developments during February and March did not help the tourism industry, resulting in Limassol already losing a substantial share of the market. According to the President of CHA Limassol, the picture during the first quarter of 2026 was already negative, with a decline of approximately 20% compared to the corresponding period in 2025.
The situation, he said, worsened further in April, May, and June due to uncertainty and concerns that influenced travelers' decisions. Based on the data he described, Limassol is now recording approximately 25% fewer visitors and tourists compared to the same period in 2025. Despite the challenging circumstances, Mr. Tsanos noted that some positive momentum became evident in May and expressed hope that this trend would continue. Nevertheless, he stressed that "there is still a problem."
Mr. Tsanos emphasized that from the moment negative market sentiment became apparent, hoteliers and tourism entrepreneurs turned more aggressively toward conference and business tourism. As he stated, this shift is "helping to save us to some extent," as efforts were intensified at international exhibitions such as ITB Berlin and IMEX Frankfurt, as well as at other events related to the conference and meetings industry, while traditional tourism demand remained weak.
Through these contacts, and in cooperation with the Limassol Tourism Development and Promotion Company, the Cyprus Hotel Association, and other stakeholders, a clear message was sent that Limassol remains available and ready to host international events and conferences. He noted that visitors attending conferences, business missions, and corporate events appeared more comfortable traveling than families, who were more affected by the prevailing climate of uncertainty.
The re-elected President of CHA Limassol made special reference to major conferences, summits, and events linked to technology, development, and innovation companies, which have strengthened the city's momentum in recent years. According to Mr. Tsanos, Limassol has succeeded in attracting and retaining important events that might otherwise have relocated elsewhere. These include conferences, festivals, and business events connected with international companies and emerging sectors of the economy.
The presence of these companies benefits not only hotels but also creates a broader economic impact across the city. Visitors do not remain confined to their hotels. They rent cars, motorcycles, or bicycles, spend time on the beaches, visit seafront venues and the city center, dine at restaurants, and support numerous local businesses. In this way, taxi drivers, transport companies, restaurants, leisure service providers, and many other professional sectors also benefit from tourism activity.
Reflecting on his previous term as President of CHA Limassol, Mr. Tsanos said that several objectives had been set from the outset, many of which have delivered tangible results. These included initiatives concerning bus stops, the protection of the seafront pedestrian walkway and cycling path, as well as efforts to strengthen conference tourism.
He noted that during the previous term, Limassol succeeded in securing three to four major conferences. There was also support for the operation of the new large integrated resort and casino hotel in western Limassol, which includes substantial conference facilities. At the same time, he said CHA Limassol helped ensure that significant events and activities remained in the city despite the risk of relocation elsewhere.
Mr. Tsanos also highlighted the need to improve public transportation, both within the city and throughout the Limassol district. He stressed that visitors should be able, within a distance of just 25 to 30 kilometers, to explore the Troodos foothills around Limassol, forests, nature trails, waterfalls, and reservoirs, enjoying an experience that differs from that of the coastal city. According to him, the objective of the new term is to further strengthen Limassol's growth and competitiveness through cooperation with all relevant stakeholders.
One issue that remains a major concern for the sector is the illegal operation of properties offered to visitors through short-term rental platforms such as Airbnb. Mr. Tsanos clarified that CHA Limassol is not opposed to the growth of tourism and hospitality-related activities. However, he stressed that such activity must be conducted legally and safely.
As he pointed out, hoteliers, restaurateurs, and all organized tourism operators carry significant responsibilities, complying with operating licenses, safety standards, certifications, and regulatory procedures. The same requirements, he argued, should apply to those seeking to operate commercially through alternative accommodation models. "Otherwise, we will become a small jungle," he said, emphasizing that maintaining legality and fair competition at all levels is one of the key priorities of his new term.
The President of CHA Limassol also referred to the traffic congestion problem, noting that it affects the hotel industry as well. As he explained, Limassol's development as a center for technology companies, corporate offices, and international businesses has significantly increased transportation needs. Employees, visitors, and businesspeople require efficient mobility options, parking facilities, and access to services on a daily basis.
According to Mr. Tsanos, the solution lies in the further development of public transportation and in better informing visitors that buses can serve as a practical means of transport during their stay.
