Greek Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni met with Ionian Islands Regional Governor Yiannis Trepeklis in Corfu to outline a new regional tourism promotion strategy.
The working meeting focused on expanding the region's tourism product, opening emerging international markets, and extending the holiday season. Officials placed special emphasis on promoting the smaller Diapontia Islands, specifically Ereikoussa, Othonoi, and Mathraki.
Discussions covered plans to capitalize on international attention generated by director Christopher Nolan's feature film The Odyssey. Officials also examined how Greece's updated digital platform, Visit Greece, can deliver targeted campaigns for destinations across the Ionian archipelago.
Island Promotion and Authentic Tourism
According to an official announcement, Kefalogianni emphasized the importance of maintaining high quality and authenticity in Greek tourism. She noted that smaller islands offer unique potential as destinations for authentic travel experiences.
Trepeklis stressed the need for close cooperation between regional authorities and the tourism ministry. He said joint efforts must deliver quality, sustainable, and competitive tourism that brings economic benefits to every island in the region.
Following the main talks, Kefalogianni and regional tourism department officials held a technical working session. The participants analyzed specific operational matters and planned upcoming initiatives for tourism development and promotion across the region.
Destination Management Framework
The meeting highlighted the operation of the Ionian Islands Destination Management and Marketing Organization, known as the DMMO. The organization was established under a legislative framework created by the Ministry of Tourism.
Officials underscored the necessity of active collaboration among central government, regional leaders, municipal authorities, and local tourism stakeholders. They said unified management is vital to protect each island's unique identity while enhancing overall competitiveness and sustainability.
The DMMO will serve as a central coordination tool to collect data, guide local businesses, and manage visitor pressures on island infrastructure. Officials emphasized the organization's dual mandate of promotion and management, calling it essential to ensure tourism works directly for the benefit of local communities.
Regional Context
The Ionian Islands form an archipelago off the western coast of mainland Greece, comprising major islands including Corfu, Kefalonia, Zakynthos, Lefkada, Ithaca, and Paxos. Corfu, also known as Kerkyra, serves as the administrative seat of the regional authority.
Located northwest of Corfu, the Diapontia Islands of Ereikoussa, Othonoi, and Mathraki represent Greece's westernmost territory. The Visit Greece portal, managed by the Greek National Tourism Organisation, serves as the country's main digital promotional outlet for international travelers.
