Paphos’ Regional Tourism Board (Etap) said that it is currently developing a digital strategy for the entire Paphos district, along with action plans for the years 2025-2027.
“Through this study, Etap Paphos aims to assess the digital competence of the destination and chart a course to remain at the forefront of digitalisation and the use of technological tools through a well-structured strategy”, the board’s announcement explained.
Specifically, the board said that the objectives of the study include evaluating the current level of digitalisation in the Paphos district as experienced by visitors, as well as assessing the effectiveness and use of digital tools by local stakeholders, partners, and businesses.
Additionally, the study will examine the digital tools and strategies used by international partners and portals to promote Paphos as a tourist destination.
The board also said that the study aims to prepare a strategic digital plan and action plans to enhance the digital presence and identity of the Paphos district.
The study is being carried out by Etap Paphos in collaboration with a team of professors and students from the American University of Beirut and is expected to be completed by the end of 2024.
Nasos Hadjigeorgiou, the executive director of Etap Paphos, stated that “a smart tourist destination cannot be realised if providers, society, and businesses are not digitally and technologically proficient“.
He added that “at the same time, they must be implementing short-term, medium-term, and long-term actions on a continuous basis”.
The first phase of the study involves primary research among foreign inbound visitors, while the second phase will include interviews and secondary research with all local stakeholders, municipalities, tourist communities, hoteliers, restaurateurs, and providers of tourist services, among others.
During phase three, the study will focus on examining the digital tools and strategies used by international partners and portals for promoting Paphos.
In the fourth and final phase, all findings from the previous phases will be consolidated to develop a comprehensive digital strategy and action plans for the entire Paphos region.
