Corfu gaining tourists as a result of geopolitical instability
Wars, rising energy costs and the cost of living are prompting Europeans to choose destinations closer to home, benefiting Corfu too, particularly in the British market. However, the situation could change.
Geopolitical conflicts and the energy crisis are benefiting closer destinations. However, Europe’s and Corfu’s advantage may prove short-lived.
Geopolitical turmoil is reshaping the global tourism map. Not because people have stopped wanting to travel, but because travelling has become more expensive, more difficult and, in some regions, unsafe. Energy costs, armed conflicts and disruptions to air links are changing consumer choices. Distance is once again taking on economic and geopolitical significance.
The figures presented at the World Travel Market in London are telling. In 2026, international arrivals are expected to increase by 2% worldwide, but travel between different geographical regions is forecast to decline by 3%. By contrast, travel within the same region is up by 3%, while arrivals in Europe are expected to rise by 5%.
This is no coincidence. The energy crisis is placing particular pressure on long-haul air routes, while conflicts in the Middle East are disrupting major international hubs. Proximity reduces some of the cost and uncertainty. It does not, of course, always guarantee cheaper holidays, as the final price also depends on accommodation, services and flight availability.
The Mediterranean therefore stands to benefit from this shift in demand. Greece, and Corfu in particular, enjoy a favourable geographical position in relation to the large European market. This is, however, a temporary advantage, not an achievement of their own tourism policies.
And this is where the contradiction lies. An 11% recovery in travel between different geographical regions is forecast for 2027, provided conflicts ease. Those choosing closer destinations today may return to long-haul travel tomorrow. Today's geographical advantage is no guarantee of future demand.
For Corfu, therefore, the issue is not simply to capitalise on yet another favourable set of circumstances. It is to make use of the time this creates to reduce its dependence on visitor numbers, improve its infrastructure and enhance the value of its tourism offering.
Because geopolitics can bring visitors. It cannot replace the development policies needed to keep them coming when circumstances change.
GIORGOS KATSAITIS
