Greece expects sharp increase in Russian tourists, minister says
The number of Russian tourists visiting Greece this summer is expected to rise by up to 70 percent, the country's deputy foreign minister for European affairs, Nikos Xydakis, said Wednesday amid reports that Russian holiday makers are turning their backs on traditional destinations such as Turkey and Egypt.
“I think there will be an increase [in arrivals]. Our projections range from 20 to 70 percent because there is a changing trend away from Turkey and Egypt, and Greece will likely benefit from this,” Xydakis told Praktorio 104.9 FM.
Russia’s tourism officials have said that Turkey and Egypt will not be destinations for its citizens for the rest of 2016 following the downing of a Russian military aircraft last year and concerns over safety.
