Panagiotis Tsourdiou, General Hotel Manager at Almyra Hotel, talks to CBN about this year's tourism season, his hotel management style and what it's like to manage such an iconic hotel.
We are well into peak summer season. Has it been as busy as you were expecting? The season began with optimistic outlooks and encouraging projections. While we experienced some challenges as the season progressed with the regional geopolitical turbulence. Regardless, we have managed to recover, and the season is looking positive. We are on track to repeating last year’s record results.
What is it like to manage a luxury hotel like Almyra? What are the challenges, but also perks? Leading an iconic hotel like Almyra offers a unique and rewarding challenge that begins with personal leadership. It requires an unwavering commitment to excellence, as our hotel not only sets industry standards but also serves as an inspiration to create memorable experiences for our guests. While our operations may appear seamless on the surface, there is a dynamic energy behind the scenes - a tireless effort of excellence and a drive to exceed expectations. This dedication to continuous improvement and delivering exceptional service is, without question, one of the most fulfilling aspects of the role.
You have over 25 years of experience in the hotel industry. What do you think makes Almyra stand out compared to other luxury hotels/resorts? Its vibe and its character! Almyra is more than just a luxurious five-star hotel. It is a distinctive destination that captivates you from the very first moment you step into its lobby area. The breathtaking views immediately relax and inspire you, conveying the welcoming message that you are truly on vacation. Rooted in Cypriot hospitality, culture and tradition, Almyra offers an authentic and enriching experience for every guest, filled with unforgettable moments and genuine warmth.
What prompted you to come to Cyprus, having previously worked in Greece, among other? Joining a dynamic and rapidly evolving organisation that emphasises the growth and development of its leadership is a professional aspiration shared by many. This professional aspiration aligns with my commitment to continuous improvement and excellence. Recognising the value of a collaborative environment, I was excited to join Thanos Hotels, a company that fosters teamwork and a culture of high standards. At Thanos Hotels, I am dedicated to expanding my skills and contributing meaningfully to the organisation's ongoing success, while furthering my professional growth within the hospitality industry.
What do you believe sets Almyra apart from its competition? Being a member of Design Hotels, Almyra features sleek interior and exterior elegance, sensual combinations of natural colours and vibes that exude a sense of calm. With its five restaurants, renowned spa, and welcoming kids club, both families and couples have equal opportunity to unwind. Flavoured with a healthy dose of reviving for the soul, the hotel occupies eight acres of beautifully landscaped gardens at the heart of Paphos’ seafront, creating the perfect base for a quiet romantic getaway or a memorable Cypriot family adventure.
How optimistic are you about the tourism industry this year? Has it been affected by the geopolitical tension? Certainly, the geopolitical tensions in the broader region have also impacted tourism. Fortunately, Almyra has demonstrated resilience, supported by the confidence of the local market. I am optimistic that by the end of 2025, the tourism levels will have stabilised and return to last year's figures.
Almyra Hotel recently presented the "In Paradise, I Have Marked an Island" Art Exhibition in collaboration with isnotgallery; a group exhibition highlighting contemporary Cypriot art. How important is it for the hotel to promote local art and culture? As a hotel manager at Almyra, I am proud to highlight our ongoing commitment to engaging with cultural and artistic initiatives. Almyra, being a design hotel, has always recognised the importance of fostering creativity and cultural dialogue. It has become a cherished tradition for us to collaborate with Mr Andros Efstathiou in organising art exhibitions, exploring different themes every time. Supporting such initiatives is both an honour and a responsibility that we take seriously. Additionally, Thanos Hotels & Resorts consistently plays a leading role in backing events that celebrate and elevate the vibrant cultural landscape of Cyprus. We believe that these collaborations are vital in enriching the local community and showcasing Cyprus' rich artistic tapestry to a broader audience.
Click
here to read the article in the Cyprus Business News.