The Region of Crete is strengthening the tourism promotion of the Lassithi Regional Unit with two major features in leading international and Greek travel publications: National Geographic and Travel.gr.
The prestigious National Geographic The magazine published an in-depth article entitled “How to explore Crete, Greece’s largest island”, devoting an entire section entitled “Eastern Crete: Iconic ruins and culinary detours” to Lassithi. The travel article includes references to Elounda and Spinalonga, Agios Nikolaos with Voulisma beach and the “pastel blues” of the sea, the Kavoussi area with its Byzantine churches and stunning frescoes, as well as Ierapetra, the town where “Napoleon once resided”. Special mention is also made of the region’s cuisine.
This publication is the result of the hospitality shown by the distinguished American editor Anthony Grant from the Region of Crete, in collaboration with the Greek National Tourism Organisation USA, during his visit to Ierapetra, Makry-Gialos, the Lassithi Plateau and Kavousi in June this year.
At the same time, Travel.gr, one of Greece’s leading travel websites, has published three themed routes as suggested road trips in the Regional Unit of Lassithi, in Greek and English. Each route, approximately 70 km long, is accompanied by extensive audiovisual material. The three routes are:
1. Road Trip to the Lasithi Plateau: From Tzermiado to caves and monasteries
2. Route to South Lasithi: From Ierapetra and the Selakanos forest to Myrtos
3. Road Trip to Eastern Crete: Coastal villages, palm groves and Minoan archaeological sites
The content was published on Travel.gr and is promoted via the website’s social media channels (TikTok, Instagram), providing inspiration to thousands of Greek and international travellers.
These initiatives form part of the Region of Crete’s annual programme of press visits, which aims to raise the island’s international profile.
The Deputy Governor of Lasithi, Yiannis Androulakis, said:
“Lasithi’s feature in National Geographic and on Travel.gr is an important recognition of the uniqueness of our region. Through targeted partnerships, we highlight the natural beauty, history, gastronomy and authentic experiences that every visitor can enjoy. We are continuing the Region of Crete’s programme of press trips on an ongoing basis, with the aim of continually strengthening the island’s international image and supporting our local economy.”.
The The Deputy Regional Governor for Tourism for the Region of Crete, Dr Kyriakos Kotsoglou, stated: “The fact that we are increasingly sought after by leading publications, both online and in print, and that our content is featured in their publications is extremely important, but the relationship is a two-way one, with Crete featuring in their pages. Particularly with National Geographic, there is a sense of continuity, whilst the fact that we are the featured region at the international exhibition in Munich highlights the potential of Crete, Everywhere!!”.
The Mr Michalis Klontzas, Regional Councillor responsible for Tourism in the Regional Unit of Lassithi, pointed out: “It is a great honour for our Lassithi to feature in the pages of National Geographic, one of the world’s largest organisations, home to some of the world’s most remarkable images. Here in the Regional Unit of Lassithi, we are always ready to showcase the boundless beauty of our region through our unique cuisine, culture and hospitality.“
Source: cretalive.gr