Hotel occupancy in Cyprus was slightly down in May, compared to the same month last year, according to the president of the Cyprus Hoteliers Association (Pasyxe) Thanos Michaelides.

However, overall figures for the first half of 2025 are expected to surpass those of 2024, as bookings continue to gain pace heading into the summer.

Speaking to the Cyprus News Agency (CNA), Michaelides said the summer season is showing encouraging signs.

He referenced the expected boost over the Holy Spirit weekend (Kataklysmos), driven largely by local demand.

“The flow of reservations for June, July and August appears satisfactory,” he said, adding that occupancy will likely hover around last year’s levels, with a chance of slight improvement as the season progresses.

For June, occupancy is forecast to range between 75 and 80 per cent.

Michaelides also outlined the key markets for inbound tourism, naming the UK as the leading source, followed by Israel and Poland.

Commenting on labour issues, he acknowledged that while there has been improvement in processing seasonal worker applications, accommodation shortages and logistical challenges remain in several tourist areas.

“We are in a better position than last year, but there is still room for progress,” Michaelides concluded.