In my first interaction for Whereabouts, I had an opportunity to interview His Excellency Mr Ioannis E. Raptakis, Ambassador of Greece to India; a truly modest, amiable and intelligent personality. By representing his country at various positions held in foreign services for more than three decades, he is adept in dealing with foreign policies, and promoting the business and culture of Greece very efficiently.
Apart from ensuring the excellent political, economical and cultural relationship between India and Greece; he is keen to establish an unprecedented growth for country’s tourism and attract more travellers from this part of the world. In an exclusive conversation with us he unfolds his strategy to achieve new heights for tourism in Greece, and his experience of living in India.
To start with, could you please describe the potential of tourism in Greece?
Greece is the most popular destination; it ranks between the first ten most attractive destinations on the earth. The country is renowned for its wonderful rugged landscape, untouched gems, endless coastlines and 6,000 islands. Its Mediterranean climate is ideal for various activities such as golf and trekking.
How has been the growth of Greece Tourism in terms of tourist arrival from India? What is your expectation from rest of the year?
There is an ever increasing interest from India in terms of traveller’s visit to Greece. By experiencing a consistent growth from India, we have witnessed a remarkable increase in tourist flow in previous years. The country has received an estimated 50, 000 travellers in 2013 as compare to 30,000 in 2012. I believe after the completion of current year, we will surpass the growth achieved in past years. From across the world, the number of 14 million international visitors in 2004 has grown up to more than 19 million. It is expected that in a few years this number will reach to 20 million, almost twice of the country’s population.
How do you see the importance of Indian market?
India – the second highest growing market after China from this region has always been an important market for us. The rapidly growing number of outbound traveller in this country is an opportunity for us to increase our tourism business. As per the latest trend, the big growth is coming from the cities of Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Bengaluru and Kolkata, while Goa and Hyderabad are picking up rapidly.
Another reason that makes India important for us is the unrest situation in Eastern Europe, Russia and Ukrain. Considering this, we are emphasising more on the emerging markets like India and China.
What initiatives have you taken to expedite the growth of tourism from India?
First, to facilitate the visa applicants, we have expanded our network (Greece Visa Facilitation Centres) to the twelve Indian cities, outside New Delhi by venturing with VFS Global. We have started issuing long term multiple entry visas with increased validity of maximum five years.
Secondly, I get in touch with Indian travel trade fraternity to know their requirements, and exchange of ideas for promotion of Greece tourism in India. In this regard, I have met more than 50 representatives of big travel companies in Mumbai recently and had in-depth discussion on tourism promotional activities.
Kindly elaborate on your future plans?
We are working on our strategy for the year 2015. It will be finalised in next couple of months. The Minister of Tourism – Greece is expected to visit India later this year. There may be a discussion between tourism representatives of both of the countries. We are planning to organise agents/media FAM trip to create more awareness about tourist places of the country.
Also, we are concentrating on Bollywood to showcase our destinations. We have a number of ideal locations for film shoot in Greece. Some parts of the movie Bang Bang were shot in our country. We soon may come up with a policy to gain more from Bollywood. We may have some discussions on direct air connectivity from India to Greece as well. We understand that a direct air connectivity can expedite the growth of tourism many folds.
How has been your experience while staying in India?
It has been a wonderful experience being in India for more than three years, I feel like at home. I was welcomed by Indian people every day and every moment. I have a lot of Indian friends with whom I am having good times here. I have travelled extensively and well aware with the people and culture of this country.
What is the first thing comes to your mind when think about India?
Definitely it is the seventh wonder of the world, the Taj Mahal and people of India. For every delegation comes from Greece, I do organise a visit to the Taj Mahal. I think we (people of India and Greece) are very similar in many ways. A lot of Indian who love Greece is very well associated with philosophy and culture of the country.
Where have you travelled recently?
My recent visit has been to Sri Nagar; it is as beautiful as Switzerland or any other country of similar climate. I wish to come here again. Also, I will plan a trip to Laddakh in near future. This place is ideal for adventurous activities such as rafting and trekking.
What are the best and most challenging parts of your job?
The most interesting part of my job is to connecting with people. Due to the nature of my job I have visited many countries and came across many cultures and beliefs that is a learning experience for me. The most challenging task is promoting Mediterranean diet in India. However, I am planning to organise a food promotion event in November. I will get some chefs from Greece.
YOU LIKE
Destination: Goa and Greece
Cuisines: Greek and Indian
Hotel: ITC Maurya, Taj Palace and Oberoi (India)
Airlines: Jet Airline, AJN Greek
