AssetID: 54510911
Headline: UNCAPTIONED: Santorini's Future in Question as Quakes Threaten Tourism
Caption: Santorini’s Future in Question as Quakes Threaten Tourism. Santorini’s tourist season is set to begin, but with thousands of earthquakes since January and no end in sight, concerns are growing over the impact on the island’s economy. A major cruise ship has already diverted from Santorini, raising alarms about potential losses in the tourism industry, which is vital to the island’s economy. Hoteliers report a decline in reservations, with some fearing this could continue if seismic activity persists. "We hope this is temporary," says Antonis Pagonis, president of Greece’s Association of Hoteliers. Santorini relies on seasonal workers to accommodate tens of thousands of daily visitors. Many are reconsidering their plans due to concerns over job security if tourist numbers drop. With safety concerns halting renovation work on hotels, construction workers may seek employment elsewhere, leaving businesses struggling to prepare for peak season. Hotel owners have urged the government to subsidize worker salaries during delays to prevent labor shortages when the season begins. Industry leaders say more investment is needed to improve Santorini’s infrastructure, including a new port, to handle high tourist numbers more efficiently. Calls are growing for stricter regulations on private rental properties, which may not meet the same safety standards as hotels amid ongoing seismic activity. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis visited the island, stressing the importance of safeguarding its global reputation and ensuring tourism thrives in 2025. Despite the challenges, hoteliers remain hopeful. “Even with fewer staff, our services will remain exceptional,” says hotel owner Margarita Karamolegkou. Instructions: THIS VIDEO MUST NOT BE EDITED FOR LENGTH TO COMBINE WITH OTHER CONTENT
Keywords: Travel & Adventure,Future,Question,Quakes,Threaten,Tourism,Economy,Santorini,Greece,Earthquakes,Industry,Workers,Seasonal,Prime Minister,Kyriakos Mitsotakis
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