Greece begins changes in tourism to curb overcrowding and protect communities.

The announcement by Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis at the 88th Thessaloniki International Fair has marked a turning point in the country's tourism policy. With the aim of curbing the overcrowding of tourists on islands such as Santorini and Mykonos, as well as in Athens itself, the government has presented measures aimed at regulating the tourism sector in a country that, in 2023, reached a record of over 36 million visitors. This is notable considering that Greece has a population of just 11 million inhabitants. Mitsotakis has proposed a plan that will incentivize property owners to transform their short-term rental apartments into long-term leases, offering tax incentives. This change responds to growing concerns about the impact that uncontrolled tourism has on the daily lives of residents and on the infrastructure of the islands. Additionally, there is a proposal for regulations that will restrict the tourist use of these apartments, which could alleviate pressure on the housing market in the most affected areas. One of the most relevant aspects of the measure is the intention to introduce a fee of 20 euros per passenger for cruise ships disembarking at the most popular islands starting in 2025. This initiative aims not only to generate additional revenue for the state but also to contribute to the fight against climate change, a growing concern in a country that has experienced devastating wildfires in recent summers. Mitsotakis emphasized that tourism should provide not only economic benefits but also social responsibility. The Prime Minister's comments reflect a delicate balance. While the importance of tourism to the Greek economy is recognized, the local community has also begun to express dissatisfaction with the saturation brought by visitors. Concerns about the quality of life for residents and the sustainability of the environment are issues that require urgent attention. In this context, Mitsotakis’ announcement is presented as a step toward a more sustainable tourism model. Despite the government's attempts to clarify that these measures are not an attack on tourism itself but rather a response to overcrowding on specific platforms, uncertainty remains regarding the final wording of the law. It has not been specified whether the restrictions will also apply to long-term rentals, a matter that could affect digital nomads who have begun to settle in the country. The threat of a housing crisis looms over many cities, and the lack of clarity in regulations could exacerbate this problem. The interest of other islands in receiving cruise ships has been questioned, and although alternatives have been explored, such as the recent arrival of a cruise ship in Lesbos, there is still no clear consensus among the islands regarding this type of tourism. Past experiences suggest that the arrival of cruise ships may not be the solution many expect, especially if local communities are not prepared to handle the additional flow of tourists. The response from merchants in Lesbos, who decided not to open their stores during the arrival of the cruise ship, highlights a broader disagreement on how to approach tourism. This underscores the dilemma between the immediate economic benefits that tourism brings and the communities' desire to preserve their identity and quality of life. As Greece navigates this new direction, the need for a sustainable tourism strategy becomes more evident than ever. The challenge will be to balance Greece's tourist appeal with the preservation of its citizens' quality of life. With a focus on sustainability, the Greek government will seek to establish a model that benefits both the economy and the local community. The effective implementation of the new measures will be crucial in determining whether Greece can achieve this balance in the near future. In short, Mitsotakis' announcement is not only a response to the growing criticism of tourist overcrowding but also an attempt to redefine Greece's relationship with its tourism sector, seeking a more balanced and responsible approach. With an eye on the future, the country faces the task of reinventing its image as a tourist destination, one that respects both its cultural heritage and the well-being of its inhabitants.