Attica has sufficient beds to accommodate 2004 Olympics visitors, Greece…
Attica has sufficient beds to accommodate 2004 Olympics visitors, Greece’s Research Institute for Tourism (
ITEP recently stated that recent news reports on the matter appear to ignore the conclusions of a report released by the institute last year.
It said that the experience of other Olympic host cities indicates that most tend to overestimate the need for tourist accommodation during the two weeks of the Games. As a result, ITEP stated, accommodation is provided above and beyond what is actually needed. Consequently, resources go to waste and tourism entrepreneurs suffer losses on their investment.
The body suggested looking to Sydney and Barcelona for guidance in this area. It pointed out that Athens has more beds than the Spanish city did when it hosted the Games in 1992, and the same number as Sydney has today.
ITEP predicts there will be 147,000 individuals visiting Athens for the Games and that, of this number, 128,500 will require accommodation. It noted that the capital can easily cover this need with a total of 154,500 beds – more specifically, 85,000 in Attica, 39,000 in the wider region, 5,000 on cruiseships and 26,000 in private lodgings such as houses and apartments.
ITEP believes no new hotel units are required for the Games but emphasised an upgrading of units, particularly those rated four-star or below, was necessary.
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