Greece trails its peers in tapping conference tourism

Greece is missing out on revenues from business tourism as it lags behind its European peers in developing this market, according to the Association of Professional Greek Conference Organizers.

The association's presidency has already submitted proposals to the Tourism Ministry for alleviating some of the many problems its members run into when trying to organize conference events. It also calls for a national plan to attract major events and a coordinated effort to promote Greek conference tourism in foreign markets.

According to the association, most conference participants have a high income level and could act as an excellent ambassadors for Greece abroad. They are also estimated to spend between 50 and 70 percent more than the average tourist while traveling. More conferences also means more jobs, the association adds, as such an event involves 40 professional...