All tourists who were in the Ierapetra area of Crete, where a large fire broke out, are safe and will be returned to their hotels. This announcement came today from the National Tourism Organization of Greece.
Fire Under Control, Tourists Relocated and Returning
“The fire is now under complete control. All tourists, as well as hotels and the surrounding area, are out of danger,” the statement said. “All necessary preventive measures were immediately taken, and tourists who were in the fire-affected areas of Ierapetra were preventively moved and accommodated in other parts of Crete (in Hersonissos, Elounda, Malia, and elsewhere).”
The decision to allow tourists to return to their hotels was made by the Municipality of Ierapetra, following communication between Andreas Fiorentinos, the Secretary-General of the National Tourism Organization of Greece, and local government representatives on Crete, as well as tourism and hotel organizations.
The statement, provided to media by the National Tourism Organization of Greece’s office for Serbia, Croatia, and Slovenia, also highlighted “the spontaneous contribution of the local community, where residents offered to host tourists in their homes.”
Commitment to Safety and Hospitality
Secretary-General Fiorentinos stated that they are “constantly vigilant” to protect the health and safety of tourists.
“The urgent mobilization of all involved parties has once again proven that Greece has mechanisms that function effectively, even under difficult conditions. I want to warmly thank the local authorities, hoteliers, and the citizens of Crete themselves for their solidarity and unreserved support for our visitors,” Fiorentinos said.
He added that the safety of everyone—lives, property, and the natural environment—is an “absolute priority” for the National Tourism Organization of Greece, and its representatives “continue their efforts to ensure tourists’ stay is smooth and with the high level of hospitality that characterizes Greece.”
Crete’s authorities estimate that approximately 15 square kilometers were burned, and over 5,000 tourists, hotel workers, and residents were evacuated, according to the Associated Press.
