In response to the devastating wildfires that forced thousands of tourists to evacuate Rhodes in July 2023, the Greek government has introduced a groundbreaking compensation scheme. Under this program, affected tourists who were evacuated due to the fires are eligible to receive e-vouchers worth up to €500. These vouchers can be used to cover accommodation expenses for a week-long stay on the island.
The compensation scheme, estimated to benefit around 25,000 holidaymakers, aims to support those affected by the wildfires and revitalize Rhodes’ tourism sector. The initiative is being implemented in two phases: the first phase runs from now until 31 May, and the second phase will take place from 1 October to 15 November.
Tourism officials have reported a strong uptake for the program, with over 5,000 future holidaymakers already enrolled. It is expected that applications will continue to increase for the autumn dates.
This compensation scheme is the first of its kind globally and is the result of months of deliberations and bureaucratic hurdles, as explained by Myron Flouris, the General Secretary of the Greek Tourism Ministry. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis announced the scheme in August 2023 on the television program Good Morning Britain, amidst the ongoing evacuation of tourists, primarily British nationals.
The innovative program is designed to provide relief to those affected by the fires and to encourage them to return to Rhodes, thereby supporting the island’s tourism industry and aiding in its recovery from the disaster.
