Mayor K. Ventouris on TN | Optimism for this year's tourist season in Kimolos

A climate of optimism prevails in Kimolos in view of this year's tourist season, with the Mayor of the island, Mr. Konstantinos Ventouris, stating to Tornos News that the course of the season is expected to be positive, thanks to the systematic effort to promote the destination, but also to the warm response already recorded by the market.

"We are optimistic that this year will be successful, not only thanks to the targeted promotion strategy that we are developing, but also to the general momentum that is evident," Mr. Ventouris states characteristically, pointing out that Kimolos is in line with modern tourism trends, as it offers authentic experiential experiences that the traveling public is now seeking.

Despite the fact that Easter is early this year, the first estimates for the tourist traffic during the days are encouraging. “We hope that all the accommodations and health-related shops that will operate will have satisfactory occupancy rates,” emphasizes the mayor.

Targeted tourism strategy and international contacts

In the field of tourism promotion, the Municipality has already completed its new strategy, in collaboration with a consulting firm, the Greek National Tourist Organization Offices abroad, and through direct contacts with journalists, bloggers, and tour operators. “The annual action plan has been drawn up, which will be continuously enriched. We are also proceeding with the publication of a new brochure and the creation of a digital guide that will highlight our geocultural heritage,” says Mr. Ventouris.

Infrastructure projects with an environmental dimension

At the same time, significant emphasis is placed on infrastructure, with projects that enhance the quality of life of residents and visitors, as well as the island's resilience to environmental challenges. As the mayor underlines, the desalination project using green technology BriZE was completed in collaboration with the ELKE of the Agricultural University of Athens and under the supervision of the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry.

At the same time, a contract was signed for the upgrade of the Wastewater Treatment Plant, a project financed through the "FILODIMOS" program. This intervention aims at full harmonization with environmental conditions and the possibility of reusing water for irrigation.

"However, we are not limited to these," adds the mayor. “We give priority to everyday life, with interventions in playgrounds and schools, as well as to strengthening cleaning services, through the supply of new vehicles and sinking bins.”

Kimolos free from overtourism

Regarding the possibility of overtourism, Mr. Ventouris is clear: “Beyond my reservation about the use of the term, I believe that Kimolos does not face problems of overconcentration of visitors. On the contrary, by expanding the tourist season, we can offer an authentic hospitality experience at any time of the year.”

Environmental challenges in mind

In closing, the mayor referred to the risks that may halt the island’s tourism development path, most notably the climate crisis. “Natural phenomena affect every destination. "This is why we invest in modern, environmentally friendly solutions that protect our island and ensure sustainable development," he emphasized.

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