The 39th International Tourism and Hotel Equipment Exhibition is officially open!
Philoxenia-Hotelia International Exhibition offers the Ministry of Tourism a unique opportunity to understand market needs and trends, exchanging ideas with tourism professionals who share a common vision: establishing Greece as a global hub for sustainable tourism. Deputy Minister of Tourism, Ms. Elena Rapti, highlighted this during the inauguration of the 39th International Tourism and Hotel Equipment Exhibition. She emphasized that Philoxenia-Hotelia positions Thessaloniki at the center of tourism developments, serving as a leading meeting point for partnerships among stakeholders and professionals in the Greek tourism industry.
The strategic partnership between the Hellenic Organization of Cultural Resources Development (HOCRED) and TIF-HELEXPO at the 39th Philoxenia-Hotelia was underscored by HOCRED’s President, Ms. Nicoletta Divari-Valakou. She highlighted efforts to link tourism with culture, a theme reflected in tomorrow’s exhibition conference, titled “Experience. Culture. Everywhere. – Connecting the Dots.”
“There is no better place for Philoxenia-Hotelia than here, with Mount Olympus, the home of Zeus, right behind us,” said Deputy Minister of Interior (Macedonia-Thrace), Mr. Konstantinos Gioulekas, emphasizing that Thessaloniki, the birthplace of hospitality, is hosting the 39th Philoxenia-Hotelia.
Central Macedonia’s Governor Mr. Apostolos Tzitzikostas announced plans to unveil a comprehensive, modern European tourism strategy as he transitions to his new role as European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism. This strategy aims to address intense competition, climate change challenges, the need for sustainable tourism, better use of digital tools, and workforce development. He noted that for the first time, the European Union has created a distinct portfolio for tourism, showcasing the sector’s importance. His primary goal is to maintain Europe’s position as the world’s leading tourist destination, a benefit for both Europe and Greece.
Thessaloniki’s Mayor Mr. Stelios Angeloudis welcomed the 39th Philoxenia-Hotelia, noting its growing dynamism and productivity, thanks to the trust of the tourism community.
Highlighting the role of regions in shaping Greece’s identity, Thessaly’s Governor Mr. Dimitris Kouretas emphasized that every region has its unique character. He expressed his desire to unite the people of Thessaly around a shared vision of growth.
Philoxenia-Hotelia is more than a tourism celebration; it’s a meeting point bringing people together from across Europe, according to PASOK-KINAL Tourism Sector Head Ms. Katerina Spyridaki. She noted that the event shapes the course of Greek tourism.
Greek National Tourism Organization’s President Ms. Angela Gerekou called Philoxenia-Hotelia the most significant “rendezvous” for Greek tourism. She also discussed how modern tourists seek meaningful experiences and the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence on the tourism landscape. She detailed the “Blooming Routes” project, dedicated to Lafcadio Hearn, Japan’s national poet with Greek heritage.
Eastern Macedonia and Thrace’s Deputy Governor Mr. Theodoros Markopoulos highlighted the region’s increasing visitor flow and its ongoing efforts to restore the environment after the devastating wildfires in Evros.
Didymoteicho’s Mayor Mr. Romylos Hatziyiannoglou invited visitors to discover the Honored Destination of this year’s exhibition, showcasing its history, culture, and gastronomy for an authentic Greek experience.
TIF-HELEXPO’s President Mr. Tasos Tzikas called for exploring tourism beyond the “sun and sea” model, highlighting Greece’s potential as a year-round destination. He characterized Philoxenia-Hotelia as a significant exhibition with exceptional quality.
The 39th Philoxenia-Hotelia, running until November 16, features 342 exhibitors from Greece and 24 foreign countries across 12,000 sq.m. in 4 pavilions. Over 4,000 B2B meetings are scheduled. Tomorrow, November 15, the flagship conference “Experience. Culture. Everywhere. – Connecting the Dots” will take place, featuring distinguished speakers and organized by TIF-HELEXPO and HOCRED.
Exhibition Hours:
Friday & Saturday: 10:00 – 19:00
