The need to control illegal tours and the creation of a tourist police is raised by the Cyprus Tourist Guides Association, warning that the uncontrolled activity of unlicensed persons affects the profession, but also the international image of Cyprus.
In an interview with KYPE, ahead of World Tourist Guide Day on February 21, the president of the Association, Lelia Mylona, noted that the profession remains particularly vulnerable, as "anyone can pretend to be a tour guide", despite the existence of relevant legislation. As she mentioned, the controls are insufficient, as a result of which guided tours are carried out without permission from the Deputy Ministry of Tourism.
According to Lelia Mylona, the effects are not limited only to industry professionals, but also directly affect visitors. As she said, in some cases inaccurate or harmful references to the Republic of Cyprus are recorded, which alters the tourist experience and the credibility of the country.
The Association, as she explained, proceeds with complaints to the Deputy Ministry of Tourism when such practices are detected, however understaffing makes it difficult to carry out on-site inspections and promote cases to Justice. Although the fines of €1,000 to €2,000 are considered dissuasive, their effectiveness depends on their implementation.
The Association recommends the inclusion of the tourist police in the national tourism strategy, stressing that countries with a strong dependence on tourism have specialized control mechanisms.
In addition to the issue of illegal tours, the industry is also grappling with seasonality, with initiatives such as inland programs and Christmas Villages helping to mitigate it. In relation to artificial intelligence, the president of the Association said that it works as a tool, but without being able to replace the authentic experience offered by the professional guide.
About 400-450 professional tour guides are currently active in Cyprus, while a new two-year study program operates through MIEEK, covering needs in languages such as Polish, Italian and Hebrew.
On the occasion of World Guide Day, the Association will hold a free tour of the Cyprus Museum in Nicosia, with the aim of enhancing the public's contact with cultural heritage.
