More Tourists, Less Money and Greece’s September Bet

Greece is once again facing a familiar paradox this summer. For the third year running, higher visitor numbers are not translating into the revenue tourism businesses had counted on, according to industry figures who had expected a stronger start to the season.

July disappoints in top destinations
The picture that emerged in July across some of the country’s most popular islands, including Santorini and Rhodes, was described as disappointing by stakeholders in the sector as a rise in visitor traffic failed to produce an increase in spending.

“Visitors came, but they were more restrained in their purchases, dining and entertainment,” tourism industry figures said, describing what several called a weak month in terms of spending.