CONFERENCE TOURISM
C
onference tourism represents a growing and dynamic part of the
market internationally. It is part of a broad range of relevant activi-
ties: meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions. It represents al-
so a relatively steady part of the global market. From a destination point
of view this type of tourism is a positive asset as such visitors are wel-
come representing individuals with generally high social, educational
and economic status.
The presence of proper tourism infrastructure of conference facilities,
large scale tourist accommodation and accessibility, are key conditions
for the development of conference tourism at a destination.
The climate in Greece is ideal for conferences all year round with an ex-
ception of the months July and August that are too hot and busy for
conferences.
In the last decade or so several destinations in Greece have attracted
this type of tourism as the country possesses good climate, hospitality,
rich cultural tradition, natural beauty together with the presence of excel-
lent supporting conference infrastructure. These factors render Greece a
prime location for conference tourism.
The fact that a network of conference tourism with metropolitan centers and excellent peripheral facilities, already
exist, is a core issue for the success of this endeavour.
Closing this short intervention I would like to stress the fact that The Greek Ministry of Tourism supports the devel-
opment of conference tourism in particular and will contribute to the improvement of the conference tourism prod-
uct with emphasis on its quality and the level of services provided. All stakeholders are ready to contribute to the
success of this sector. The State, the regions, the local authorities the hoteliers, the professionals of the meetings’
industry and other entrepreneurs, we will all work together as to produce a very good product that will meet the
needs and satisfy the most demanding clientele.
Sincerely
The Minister of Tourism
Olga Kefalogianni
