Interview with Nikos Chalkiadakis – President of the Hoteliers Association of Crete

Crete remains one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, attracting visitors from every corner of the globe. Mr Nikos Chalkiadakis, president of the Hoteliers Association of Crete and an accomplished entrepreneur in the tourism sector, speaks to Estate about his proposals regarding the island's tourism development, investment trends and the challenges facing the sector.

Mr Chalkiadakis, as president of the Association and an experienced entrepreneur in the sector, what proposals have you submitted to local bodies in order to dynamically change the island's tourism profile and character?

Crete has enormous potential to evolve into a model of sustainable and thematic tourism. We have submitted proposals for the development of alternative forms of tourism, such as agritourism, gastronomic tourism and wellness tourism. At the same time, we are focusing on improving infrastructure, the sustainable management of natural resources and the strengthening of tourism education.

Crete is considered one of the most attractive destinations on a global level. However, there is considerable room for improvement in the provision of services. What do you believe needs to change immediately?

What is needed is investment in the quality of the services provided. Accommodation, gastronomy and entertainment must keep pace with international trends and the demands of visitors. We need better staff training, upgraded infrastructure and the adoption of new technologies that will improve the visitor experience.

In recent years, Crete has been attracting investment in luxury accommodation, as well as in ultra-luxury seafront residences. How many such units are currently in operation?

Crete is home to more than 150 five-star units, while the number of luxury seafront residences is continuously increasing. These investments demonstrate confidence in the island's dynamism and strengthen the local economy, creating new jobs and upgrading the tourism product.

What are the main problems facing the tourism sector in Crete today?

One of the most significant problems is the shortage of specialised staff, which affects the quality of the services provided. In addition, the increase in short-term rental properties creates unfair competition for hotels. Finally, climate change and environmental challenges demand adaptation to new conditions with an emphasis on sustainability.

Short-term rental properties have increased rapidly. How much does this affect the survival and development of hotel units in Crete?

The unregulated growth of short-term rentals significantly affects the viability of hotel units, as it creates unfair competition without the same tax and regulatory frameworks. At the same time, it affects the local community, raising property prices and creating pressure on infrastructure. Regulation of this sector is essential for balanced development.

Crete continues to evolve dynamically in the tourism sector, retaining its charm and uniqueness, while at the same time facing the challenges of a constantly changing environment.

Interview by: Vasilis Bambaoulos General Manager of Arcus Real Estate