Cyprus tourism is showing the first signs of recovery after the geopolitical crisis battered bookings and fuelled misleading impressions abroad that the island was directly involved in the war, with officials and industry players pointing to a more positive flow of messages over the past 24 hours. 

A meeting is due at noon on Monday at the Deputy Ministry of Tourism, where officials are expected to review the latest tourism data and assess whether the improved mood can translate into bookings during the peak summer months. 

One of the clearest positive signals is the expected resumption this week of flights between Israel and Cyprus.  

Pasyxe director-general Christos Angelides said the development would be “an unexpected breath of fresh air” for the sector, noting that Israel is Cyprus’ second-largest tourist market.  

He added that all efforts are now focused on protecting the period from June to the end of October, when hotel occupancy, arrivals and tourism revenue usually peak. 

Another boost came from Poland, which has upgraded its travel advice for the Republic of Cyprus to level one, the standard caution category.  

Deputy Tourism Minister Kostas Koumis said the move strengthens Cyprus’ image as a safe destination, although he stopped short of making firm forecasts for the summer, saying it remains too early despite the more encouraging signs.

Koumis also said the recent informal meeting of EU tourism ministers in Nicosia helped improve the climate, as visiting officials were able to see the destination first-hand and form their own view of the level of security and the hospitality on offer.  

The gathering formed part of Cyprus’ EU presidency agenda and focused on the bloc’s sustainable tourism strategy. 

Further support came from new TUI research, which ranked Paphos seventh and Limassol eighth among more than 150 seaside destinations in Europe assessed for family-friendly holidays. The study looked at factors including attractions, entertainment options and weather conditions.