Dodecanese: The “alternative” destination that fascinated Norwegians

The alternative destinations of the Dodecanese are praised by the prestigious travel magazine of Norway, Reiselyst as a result of the efforts to promote the Greek tourist product made by the Office of EOT Scandinavia .

“Greece, an unforgettable experience” is the title of the extensive tribute that begins with the background of an impressive photo from climbing in the fields of Kalymnos. Topping Reiselyst’s list is the Kalymnos- a.k.a. Sponge Divers Island”, where one can climb giant vertical cliffs, explore centuries-old shipwrecks, discover enchanting caves and visit stunning beaches. Followed by Leros with its sandy shores and unique picturesque villages and Astypalaia which generously offers a rich history, all-white villages, clear blue seas and sunny beaches. The following places on the list stand out: Patmos as the island of Apocalypse and spiritual upliftment, the traditional Nisyros and Kasos, which is of particular archaeological and historical interest. The surprise island that enhances the medium is Lipsi, a “chain” of small exotic islands that is highly recommended to those looking for relaxation in pristine nature.

For 2023, the Norwegian market is showing “strength”, confirming initial expectations so far and showing a current increase of 10% in scheduled air seats to Greece, according to the latest data from Insete’s Airdata tracker.

Regarding the development of the tourist season, representatives of the destinations on the list declare to state news agency AMNA:

“Lipsi seems to be establishing itself in the consciousness of the traveling public as a destination with respect for the environment, incomparable exotic beauty, quality of service, reasonable prices, excellent accommodation and good food. Occupancies of over 90% are predicted for the tourist peak period, while reservations are still being taken. At the moment, Leipsos have travel flows both from Greece and from abroad such as Italy, England and other markets”, says the Mayor of Lipsi Fotis Maggos.

“The messages for the continuation of the season in Kalymnos are auspicious. Although the season did not start as expected, traffic is forecast to pick up significantly over the coming months and up to the end of November. The impressive range of options for holidays on the island of sponges from climbing and diving, to relaxing on dreamy shores and having fun in beautiful alleys is the motivation that pushes travelers to visit our island again and again”, said the Mayor of Kalymnia Dimitris Diakomichalis.

“Karpathos “flowed” touristically in May, recording impressive performances with an estimated increase in air arrivals of more than 20% compared to last year. The forecasts are very encouraging for July and August, while there is already interest for September from many foreign markets. Authentic hospitality on an island that has not been altered by mass tourism is our comparative advantage”, pointed out the Deputy Mayor for Tourism of the Municipality of Karpathos, Manolis Paragyios.

“The picture in Patmos was particularly encouraging in the last three days of the Holy Spirit weekend with satisfactory occupancy rates in the accommodations that were open. At the same time, pre-bookings for the summer radiate optimism. We feel vindicated because the markets have received the message that the destination is synonymous with renewal and spiritual upliftment and is addressed to those who seek true quality”, added the Deputy Mayor of Tourism of the Municipality of Patmos, Nikos Koutouzos.

The Mayor of Astypalaia, Nikos Komineas, says in a statement: “The messages we receive for July and August on the island are positive, while September will also move at a satisfactory pace. It is very important that the extroversion of Astypalaia is strengthened as a result of the pioneering sustainable initiatives that are being implemented, without the destination losing its authentic color on the “altar” of massiveness.