He noted that these types of developments have a philosophy of developing in very distinct landscapes. He also said the structures must be temporary.
In a series of proposals to the Parliamentary Committee for Energy, Trade and Industry on luxury “glamping” camps, the Deputy Minister of Tourism Kostas Koumis proceeded with the aim of bringing the relevant bill to the Plenary, a bill which had been rejected in the past.
< p>At the same time, when asked about the course of tourism, Mr. Koumis noted that there was a 1.6% increase in arrivals during the first two months of the year.
He added that it is not an easy year, but a year characterized by challenges. It is affected, as he said, by the situation in the Middle East, the economic crisis prevailing in Germany and the recession in Great Britain. However, he said that what affects the most is the aviation crisis.
As Mr. Koumis mentioned about “glamping” while speaking in the Parliament, the Government wants to ensure that developments of this type are done properly in basis of the philosophy that characterizes this type of development, which is the enjoyment of unique landscapes in nature together with doses of luxury.
He particularly emphasized that these types of developments are mainly aimed at travelers with ecological sensitivities and for this reason the Deputy Ministry submitted a series of recommendations to the relevant parliamentary committee.
He added that they do not believe that these developments should be made within developed tourist areas, so that there is no pressure on these areas, some of which are at their limits.
He expressed optimism that their recommendations will be adopted by the competent Parliamentary Committee.
< p>Among the suggestions is to not allow car parking next to the glamor camping structures, but to have a specific space away from the structures. The Deputy Minister also noted that these types of developments have a philosophy to develop in very distinct landscapes. He also said that the constructions must be of a temporary nature, while where they will be made will be within the framework of the zoning policy determined by the Ministry of the Interior.
He also said that such spaces that are already operating, are operating illegally.
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Difficult year for tourism, optimism remains
When asked about the course of tourism, Mr. Koumis noted that there was a 1.6% increase in arrivals during the first two months of the year.
He added that it is not an easy year, but a year characterized by challenges. It is affected, as he said, by the situation in the Middle East, the economic crisis prevailing in Germany and the recession in Great Britain. However, he said that what affects the most is the aviation crisis. He added that they believe they can stay in line with last year's performance.
Regarding the upcoming green fee on overnight stays, he said it is not something that currently affects potential guests. He added that a consultation with the Ministry of Finance is planned and they will be placed after the consultation responsibly and clearly.