A new strategy for Ionian Islands tourism, focusing on destination promotion and the further development of the region’s tourism offering, was at the centre of a working meeting in Corfu between Greek Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni and Ionian Islands Regional Governor Giannis Trepeklis.
The talks focused on tapping into emerging tourism markets and extending the tourism season, with particular emphasis on promoting the Diapontia Islands of Ereikoussa, Othonoi and Mathraki.
A stronger focus on the smaller islands
The Tourism Minister highlighted the importance of quality and authenticity in Greece’s tourism offering, as well as the potential to position the smaller islands as destinations offering authentic travel experiences.
For his part, the Regional Governor stressed the importance of close cooperation between the Region and the Ministry, with the aim of developing a high-quality, sustainable and competitive tourism sector that delivers benefits across all the islands of the region.
Leveraging international exposure and VisitGreece
The meeting also explored opportunities to capitalise on the international exposure generated by Christopher Nolan’s film The Odyssey, as well as the new VisitGreece digital platform, to deliver more targeted promotion of destinations across the Ionian Islands.
A technical working session followed, attended by the Minister and tourism officials from the Region of the Ionian Islands. Discussions focused on specific issues and the next steps for promoting and developing tourism across the region.
The role of the DMMO
The discussions also addressed the operation of the Ionian Islands Region’s Destination Management and Marketing Organisation (DMMO), established under the relevant legislative framework introduced by the Ministry of Tourism.
The organisation is expected to serve as a key tool for destination coordination and management, collecting and using data, coordinating public and private-sector stakeholders, managing pressures affecting the islands and shaping a long-term strategy for sustainable development.
Particular emphasis was placed on the DMMO’s dual mandate — marketing and management — as a prerequisite for a tourism model that delivers tangible benefits to local communities.
