Unconventional Lodgings: A Decommissioned Bus Among Paphos’s Self-Catering Accommodations
In a surprising twist to the conventional holiday accommodation, the Paphos Regional Tourism Development and Promotion Company has highlighted a unique offering in their latest survey. Amidst the 20,000 beds available across 6,000 self-catering accommodations in Paphos province, tourists can now find a novel sleeping option: a decommissioned bus. This quirky rental is reflective of the diverse range of lodging options popping up in the region.
The Paphos Tourism Organisation (PTO) disclosed that this unusual accommodation is listed for short-term rental on a popular platform, showcasing the innovative spirit of local tourism. The survey further detailed that the available beds are equally split, with half in apartments and the other half in houses or villas.
Breaking down the numbers, the Municipality of Paphos boasts the highest number of beds at 4,000. Following closely are Peyia with 3,600 beds and Kouklia with 1,300. Other areas such as Neo Chorio, Chloraka, Kissonerga, Argaka, and Geroskipou contribute to the tally with varying bed counts. These figures illustrate a well-distributed hospitality landscape throughout the province.
The PTO also noted that while 15,000 beds have been officially registered on the Deputy Ministry of Tourism’s platform, an additional 5,000 remain unregistered. These are still accessible to tourists through various promotional channels. This revelation aligns with previous estimates that projected the province’s capacity to exceed 50,000 beds, a significant leap from the 29,500 beds formally licensed.
The discovery that nearly 40% of total beds have not been subjected to official checks underscores the importance of regulation in self-catering accommodations. It raises concerns about standards and safety, which are crucial for maintaining Paphos’s reputation as a premier tourist destination.
From traditional villas to the charm of sleeping in a stationary vehicle, Paphos’s accommodation scene is as diverse as it is vast. As the region continues to attract visitors with its innovative lodging options, ensuring compliance with tourism regulations will be essential for sustainable growth.