Santorini bounces back: Seize affordable escapes after quakes
Following a series of tremors that hit Santorini earlier this year, the island's tourism industry is worried about a potential decline in tourist numbers. However, for those who choose to visit despite these concerns, it could present an opportunity for a more affordable vacation.
According to CNN, from January 26 to February 22, more than 20,000 small earthquakes with magnitudes of 1 or greater were recorded off the coast of Santorini. One of these reached a magnitude of 5.3 on the Richter scale. A significant number of local residents, particularly families with young children and seasonal workers, evacuated the volcanic island. Construction work was suspended, and the island's tranquil times were disrupted.
The state of emergency was lifted in Santorini at the beginning of March, and residents returned to their homes. Schools reopened, and construction work resumed. Many inhabitants of this tourist island are now contemplating how the earthquakes will affect tourism, especially as summer approaches.
Markos Chaidemenos, whose family owns five hotels in Santorini that are part of the Canaves Collection, stated that there have been no cancellations. However, bookings slowed during the peak of seismic activity.
"Now that confidence is rebounding quickly, especially for a destination as beloved as Santorini, we’re seeing more bookings coming in. People want to travel to the island for the iconic sunsets, unforgettable experiences and world-class hospitality." Chaidemenos said in an interview with CNN.
This is a chance for cheaper vacations
Philip Dragoumis, who owns a small hotel in Santorini, noted in an interview with CNN that this is an opportune moment for customers seeking affordable vacations. "It is probably a good time to book now. The prices have come down a bit, there is less demand, so there should be some better opportunities," he said.
Dragoumis suggested that Santorini may not be as crowded as in previous record years, when visitor numbers reached 3.4 million. This is good news for those who dislike crowds. This year, Santorini may be less crowded, partly due to fears of a potential volcanic eruption. However, scientists are reassuring the public.
When the series of earthquakes began, there were speculations that the underwater Kolumbo volcano near Santorini might be active, potentially leading to an eruption. However, experts studying the volcano emphasize that the seismic activity observed on Santorini was not volcanic but tectonic, originating from faults in the Anydros basin where the volcano is located.
