In a series of proposals to the Parliamentary Committee on Energy, Commerce, and Industry, the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Kostas Koumis, has advanced the concept of luxury 'glamping' accommodations, aiming to lead the relevant bill to the Plenary, a bill which was previously rejected.

Addressing the Parliament, Mr. Koumis highlighted the government's intention to ensure that such developments are carried out correctly, embracing the philosophy of enjoying unique natural landscapes combined with elements of luxury.

He emphasized that these developments are primarily aimed at environmentally conscious travelers, leading to a series of recommendations submitted to the appropriate parliamentary committee.

Mr. Koumis added that these developments should not be situated within developed tourist areas to avoid exerting pressure on these regions, some of which are already at their limits.

He expressed optimism that their recommendations would be adopted by the responsible Parliamentary Committee.

Among the proposals is a regulation to prohibit car parking next to glamping structures, instead designating a specific area away from these structures. The Deputy Minister also noted that such developments are philosophically intended to be located in distinctive landscapes. He further stated that the constructions should be temporary in nature and their placement will follow the spatial planning policies set by the Ministry of the Interior.

He also mentioned that such sites currently operating are doing so illegally.

When asked about the state of tourism, Mr. Koumis noted a 1.6% increase in arrivals during the first two months of the year.

He added that while it is not an easy year, marked by challenges, it is influenced by the situation in the Middle East, the economic crisis in Germany, and the recession in the UK. However, he said that the most significant impact comes from the crisis in the aviation industry.

"We remain optimistic because we had worked intensively before the crisis emerged, aiming to increase the number of available seats," he said. He added that they believe they can maintain the performance levels of the previous year.

Regarding the green fee on overnight stays soon to be imposed, he said that it is not currently affecting potential visitors. He added that consultation is planned with the Ministry of Finance and responsible and clear positioning will follow the consultation.