Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni and Deputy Minister of Development Notis Mitarachis attended the 1st Greek Investment Forum, which took place in New York on October 9-11, highlighting business opportunities in Greece. At a press conference following the event, the two ministers stressed that the government’s and the Greek people’s efforts towards overcoming the crisis are being acknowledged, as there are already positive signs for investments in the country.

Kefalogianni presented a brief outline of her ministry's priorities, noting that, despite the crisis, tourism remains a very important and dynamic sector of Greek economic activity.

She also focused on the diversification of the Greek tourism product, which is stepping away from the antiquated 'sea and sun' model, placing greater emphasis on new products, such as modern tourist accommodation with special facilities (golf, marinas, conference halls) and thematic tourism (health tourism, marine tourism, cruises). 

Early indications regarding bookings from abroad for the 2013 tourism season are encouraging, according to data compiled by the international tour operator TUI.