Athens Short-Term Rental Listings Fall by Eight Percent as Freeze on New Property Registration Numbers Impacts Popular Districts in the City and Thessaloniki

The short-term rental market in Athens has experienced a noticeable dip, with listings falling by eight percent as a result of a freeze on new property registration numbers. This freeze, which primarily affects popular districts in Athens and Thessaloniki, has created a ripple effect throughout the local tourism and real estate sectors. As demand for short-term rentals remains high, particularly in key areas such as the historic centre of Athens and the coastal zones of Thessaloniki, the reduced availability of new listings has led to a tightening of supply. This has raised concerns among both property owners and potential visitors, as the market adjusts to these new regulatory constraints. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind the freeze, the impact on the local economy, and the potential long-term consequences for the short-term rental landscape in these iconic Greek cities.

Short-term rental properties in central Athens have experienced an 8% decline following the implementation of a freeze on new Property Registration Numbers (AMAs). This shift, which was shared at the Short Stay Athens Conference 2026, marks a significant development in the city’s rental market. The freeze, effective since 2025, applies to the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd municipal districts of Athens and has since been extended to central Thessaloniki. The freeze has led to a reduction in the number of active AMAs in Athens’ central districts by approximately 2,500, from 29,500 to 27,000.

The freeze came into effect to control the rapid expansion of short-term rentals in some of Greece’s most sought-after tourist areas. Greece’s Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE) officials highlighted that the announcement of the freeze in late 2024 triggered a surge in AMA registrations. Property owners rushed to secure their permits before the restrictions came into force, seeking to avoid missing out on the potential for short-term rental income. During the final months of 2024, AMA registrations spiked as owners scrambled to register their properties.

Since the launch of the national property registry, 358,115 AMAs have been issued, corresponding to 238,600 unique property identification numbers (ATAK). This indicates a significant number of properties have been registered for short-term rental, and by 2025, approximately 116,000 of these AMAs recorded at least one booking. Despite the freeze on new AMAs, short-term rental activity continues to thrive in Greece, contributing significantly to the economy.

In fact, short-term rental revenues saw a significant increase in 2025. The market’s total revenue rose by 110 million euros, reaching a total of 980 million euros, reflecting a growth rate of 12.6%. This growth is an indication of the enduring demand for short-term rental properties, despite regulatory changes. Data from INSETE, the research institute of the Greek Tourism Confederation (SETE), revealed that during the peak of the tourist season in August 2025, 247,000 properties were available for short-term rental across Greece. This extensive supply provided approximately one million beds to accommodate tourists.

While short-term rentals are a significant part of Greece’s tourism infrastructure, the conference also highlighted increased efforts to cross-check booking data against tax filings. The heightened scrutiny has led to the identification of several irregularities in the market. Authorities found that around 1,000 property owners managing three or more properties had not registered a business activity, which is required under current legislation. Additionally, 500 companies were found to be operating under incorrect activity codes, further underscoring the need for tighter oversight in the short-term rental sector.

The role of short-term rentals in Greece’s housing crisis was another key discussion point at the conference. There has been significant public debate over whether the rise in short-term rentals has contributed to the escalating rents in major cities like Athens. Some market representatives argued that short-term rentals are not the primary cause of rising rents in Greece. They pointed out that structural imbalances in the housing market, such as insufficient housing supply and growing demand, were issues that predated the growth of the short-term rental market. These challenges have been exacerbated by the lack of new residential construction in recent decades, which has contributed to a shortage of available rental properties.

The discussion highlighted that short-term rentals, while influential, have a limited impact on the housing market when compared to other factors. The measures introduced by the government aim to address the imbalance in housing supply by regulating short-term rental activity more strictly. The goal is to create a more balanced availability of both short- and long-term rental properties in urban areas that are under significant pressure due to tourism.

While the measures are seen as a positive step to ease housing pressures in some high-demand urban areas, industry representatives have expressed concerns that further tightening of short-term rental regulations could have unintended consequences. These representatives warned that property markets are dynamic and tend to adjust over time, suggesting that excessive regulatory measures could distort the market in ways that may not be beneficial in the long run.

At the conference, speakers also pointed to several other factors contributing to Greece’s housing affordability issues. These included urban concentration, the aging housing stock, and challenges with tenant screening. All of these elements have played a role in the upward pressure on rents, which continues to be a major concern for residents in many urban areas. These structural issues have been ongoing and are likely to persist unless significant changes are made to the housing sector as a whole.

The implementation of these measures reflects a broader effort to improve housing availability and affordability in the face of growing demand. While the freeze on new AMAs is a significant step, it is only one part of a wider strategy to address the housing crisis in Greece. It remains to be seen how effective these measures will be in the long term and whether further regulatory steps will be necessary to stabilize the housing market.

As the debate over housing supply, demand, and regulation continues, the role of short-term rentals will remain a central topic in policy discussions. The ongoing changes in the short-term rental market, particularly in Athens and Thessaloniki, will likely shape the future of the industry in Greece. The ShortStay Conference, organized by the Short-Term Accommodation Managers Association (STAMA Grece), continues to be an important forum for discussing these issues, with stakeholders from across the industry coming together to explore the future of short-term rentals, villas, and serviced apartments in Greece.

Athens and Thessaloniki have seen an eight percent drop in short-term rental listings due to a freeze on new property registration numbers, impacting popular districts in both cities. This regulatory measure has restricted the availability of new rental properties, limiting options for tourists and property owners.

This ongoing conversation is critical, as the government seeks to strike a balance between maintaining the vitality of the tourism sector and addressing the pressing challenges of housing affordability in urban areas.

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United Kingdom Joins Bahrain, China, Kenya, Egypt, and More Prominent Countries in Contributing to South Africa’s Exceptional Eleven Percent Growth in Tourism Industry and Economic Impact for January 2026

The United Kingdom has become one of the key contributors to South Africa’s remarkable 11% increase in tourism arrivals for January 2026, joining a list of influential nations, including Bahrain, China, Kenya, and Egypt, that have played pivotal roles in this growth. This surge in tourism reflects not only the successful post-pandemic recovery of South Africa’s travel industry but also its strengthened positioning as a top global destination. The influx of visitors from these countries underscores the global appeal of South Africa’s unique offerings, from breathtaking safaris to vibrant urban landscapes, which continue to captivate international travelers. As airlines enhance connectivity and South Africa streamlines its visa processes, the country’s tourism sector is on a trajectory for sustained growth, with significant economic benefits in store.

In January 2026, South Africa experienced a remarkable 11% surge in tourism arrivals, driven by significant contributions from key nations. This sharp increase highlights a strong recovery trajectory following the global pandemic and marks South Africa’s strategic ascent as a top global travel destination. The country’s allure, with its vast array of attractions, has led to an influx of international visitors, bringing profound economic and social benefits across multiple sectors.

The rise in tourism is attributed to several critical factors: enhanced air connectivity, improved visa facilitation, and proactive marketing campaigns targeting global audiences. The increase in direct flights from major cities has greatly facilitated access to South Africa, making travel more seamless. These initiatives represent a strategic adaptation to evolving global travel trends, showcasing South Africa’s capability to attract diverse tourism flows.

Moreover, South Africa’s growing prominence as a destination for international conferences and business events has further bolstered its appeal to corporate travelers, creating a dynamic, multi-faceted tourism landscape.

Key International Contributors to South Africa’s Tourism Growth

• United Kingdom: As one of the largest sources of inbound tourism, the UK continues to play a pivotal role. The combination of improved air connections and strong historical ties fuels significant tourism, with travelers seeking both adventure and luxury experiences. The UK’s affluence and appetite for cultural experiences continue to drive significant traffic, boosting South Africa’s tourism growth.
• China: Following relaxed visa restrictions and the introduction of direct flights, China has become a major source of tourists. Chinese visitors are increasingly drawn to South Africa’s unique wildlife, scenic beauty, and rich cultural offerings. With a growing middle class, Chinese travelers are eager to explore new destinations, and South Africa’s appeal has strengthened as a desirable option.
• Bahrain: Economic ties with the GCC region have fueled the surge in travel from Bahrain. The increase in direct flights between Bahrain and South Africa has opened up new luxury and adventure opportunities for Bahraini nationals. This expanded connectivity, combined with a rising demand for high-end travel experiences, has positioned South Africa as an attractive destination for the affluent Bahraini market.
• Morocco: As African outbound tourism continues to grow, travelers from Morocco are flocking to South Africa’s stunning landscapes and vibrant urban life. Morocco’s proximity to South Africa and the increasing trend of North African travelers exploring sub-Saharan destinations has strengthened the bond between the two countries. South Africa’s diverse offerings—ranging from safaris to cultural events—are highly appealing to Moroccan tourists seeking adventure and luxury.
• Kenya: With close cultural and economic relationships, Kenya has become a key contributor to South Africa’s tourism influx. Increased travel between the two nations has fostered a mutually beneficial tourism partnership. Kenya’s thriving middle class and growing interest in international travel are significant drivers, with many Kenyans now exploring South Africa for leisure and business.
• Egypt: Serving as a major entry point for African tourists, Egypt continues to drive interest in South Africa. Egyptian tourists are increasingly seeking high-end travel experiences and thrilling adventures, further boosting tourism in South Africa. As Egypt is a well-established gateway for African travelers, South Africa is often seen as an ideal extension of their travel experiences.

This surge in tourism to South Africa is not just a local phenomenon but part of a broader global trend. Countries are reevaluating their tourism strategies in response to the post-pandemic landscape, and as the competition for international visitors intensifies, South Africa’s growth signifies a renewed global confidence in travel. The success in markets like the UK and China could create a domino effect, influencing travel behavior in other major nations.

Future Prospects for South Africa’s Tourism Sector

Looking ahead, several pivotal developments are expected to shape South Africa’s tourism trajectory:

1. Enhanced Connectivity: The anticipated rise in flight routes from emerging markets, especially targeting tourists from Asia and Europe, will continue to improve South Africa’s accessibility. The expansion of global flight networks is expected to increase the ease with which international travelers can visit, positioning South Africa as a major player in the global tourism industry. As more direct flights become available from key cities, the country’s tourism infrastructure will be well-positioned to handle an influx of visitors.
2. Growth in Luxury Tourism: With a growing number of affluent travelers visiting South Africa, the demand for high-end experiences is expected to rise. As global wealth increases, luxury tourism in South Africa will continue to thrive, with upscale hotels, gourmet dining, and private safaris drawing in high-net-worth individuals. This will inspire local businesses to innovate and offer even more exclusive, tailored travel experiences.
3. Strategic Partnerships: The ongoing collaboration between South Africa and key contributing countries will likely yield new promotional campaigns, travel incentives, and initiatives designed to boost tourism even further. Joint efforts between tourism boards, airlines, and other industry stakeholders will create more opportunities for marketing and developing unique travel experiences. This collaboration will continue to foster growth and ensure South Africa remains at the forefront of the global tourism stage.

The United Kingdom, alongside Bahrain, China, Kenya, Egypt, and other key nations, has played a vital role in South Africa’s impressive 11% tourism growth for January 2026, driven by increased flight connectivity, enhanced visa processes, and the country’s growing appeal as a top global destination.

the impressive 11% boost in South African tourism arrivals underscores the effectiveness of strategic planning and international collaboration. The country’s recovery and subsequent rise as a leading destination are a clear indication of its growing global presence. With continued efforts and a focus on emerging markets, luxury tourism, and strategic partnerships, South Africa is poised for sustained growth, both in 2026 and beyond. The tourism sector’s resilience demonstrates South Africa’s ability to adapt and thrive, making it a premier destination for both leisure and business travelers.

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United States Joins Canada, Mexico, United Kingdom and More as Qantas Revolutionizes Long-Haul Travel by Introducing Historic Nonstop Sydney to Las Vegas Flight Starting December 2026

Qantas is set to revolutionize long-haul travel by launching the first-ever nonstop Sydney to Las Vegas flight in December 2026, offering Australians a quicker and more convenient way to reach the iconic entertainment hub. This game-changing route eliminates the need for layovers in other U.S. cities, streamlining travel. With this move, the United States joins Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, and other countries in providing direct flights to Las Vegas, enhancing global connectivity and providing new opportunities for both leisure and business travelers.

Each year, over 250,000 Australians make the journey to Las Vegas, but they have always faced a lengthy trip with a layover at a major U.S. airport such as Los Angeles (LAX) or San Francisco (SFO). These stopovers often added several hours to their travel time, making an already long flight even more time-consuming. However, starting December 29, 2026, that will all change. Qantas Airways will introduce the first-ever nonstop flight between Australia and Las Vegas, providing a direct, hassle-free route from Sydney to Sin City. This flight, which will be seasonal, will run through mid-March 2027, with departures scheduled on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. The flight duration is expected to be around 14 hours from Sydney to Las Vegas, cutting roughly five hours off the total travel time compared to connecting flights through other U.S. cities.

This new service promises to be a game-changer for Australian travelers heading to Las Vegas. Previously, travelers had to navigate busy airports like LAX or SFO, often enduring long customs and immigration lines, slower baggage claim processes, and delays due to the complex logistics of changing terminals. Now, by flying directly into Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas, passengers can enjoy a much smoother arrival experience. The airport, much smaller than LAX or SFO, will offer quicker immigration procedures, faster luggage retrieval, and a more streamlined terminal experience, ensuring that travelers spend less time navigating the airport and more time enjoying their destination.

Las Vegas has long been a popular destination for Australians, with more than 250,000 visitors from Australia each year. This makes Australia one of the top international markets for the city, even though there has been no direct flight connecting the two destinations until now. Since 2010, Australia has consistently ranked as the fourth-largest source of international visitors to Las Vegas, following only Canada, Mexico, and the UK. This high demand from Australian travelers, combined with the growth in tourism to the city, made a direct flight from Sydney a natural next step for Qantas.

The decision to launch the nonstop Sydney to Las Vegas service comes at a time when Las Vegas is working to recover from a decline in tourism. In 2025, the city saw a drop in the number of visitors, with 38.5 million tourists, a 7.5 percent decrease from 41.7 million in 2024. This decrease was largely attributed to the loss of Canadian visitors, who canceled their trips due to political tensions between the United States and Canada. Additionally, there was a decline in domestic leisure travel as price sensitivity increased among U.S. tourists. However, with 2026 on the horizon, Las Vegas is optimistic about a recovery in tourism numbers, and the introduction of a direct flight from Sydney is expected to play a key role in this revival.

The flight will be timed around major events that draw large numbers of visitors to Las Vegas, including the renowned Consumer Electronics Show (CES) held each January, and the National Rugby League’s (NRL) Las Vegas Festival. The NRL Festival, which attracted over 25,000 Australians in 2025, is one of the key events that prompted Qantas to start running charter flights to Las Vegas. These charter flights have been a huge success, with every seat selling out each year. By offering a year-round nonstop service, Qantas aims to provide even more Australians with easy access to these events and many others, cementing Las Vegas as a must-visit destination for Australians.

For Qantas, this nonstop service will not only cater to Australians attending major events, but it will also open up a broader range of opportunities for leisure and business travelers. The demand for direct access to Las Vegas is already clear, and the airline is confident that this new route will provide the convenience and comfort that travelers expect. The introduction of the nonstop service will likely stimulate additional tourism to Las Vegas, boosting the local economy, and providing travelers with more time to experience everything the city has to offer.

In addition to Qantas’ new route, Las Vegas is poised for further growth in its international connectivity. Air France is also set to launch a new flight from Paris to Las Vegas, starting on April 15, 2026, offering three weekly departures. This will give European travelers another convenient option to reach the city, further strengthening Las Vegas’ position as a global travel hub. With increased competition from international airlines and the growing popularity of Las Vegas as a destination, the city is expected to see a significant increase in international visitors in the coming years.

Despite the challenges faced by Las Vegas’ tourism sector in recent years, the city remains a popular destination for travelers worldwide. Major events, such as the FIFA World Cup and the U.S. 250th anniversary celebrations, are expected to bring even more international visitors to the city in 2026. Qantas’ new nonstop flight from Sydney to Las Vegas will help ensure that Australians can easily access the city and contribute to the tourism resurgence that is anticipated for next year.

Qantas is set to revolutionize long-haul travel by launching the first-ever nonstop flight from Sydney to Las Vegas in December 2026, eliminating layovers and offering faster, seamless travel for Australians heading to one of the world’s top entertainment hubs. This move positions the U.S. alongside Canada, Mexico, and the UK in offering direct flights to Las Vegas.

This new nonstop service marks a significant step forward in the evolution of travel between Australia and the U.S. For Australian travelers, it eliminates the stress and time commitment associated with connecting flights, allowing them to spend more time in Las Vegas and less time in airports. It also provides a unique opportunity for Las Vegas to recover from its recent visitor decline, offering a fresh and efficient way for tourists to experience the city. With more events, improved connectivity, and the introduction of the nonstop flight, 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year for Las Vegas, and for travelers heading to one of the most iconic destinations in the world.

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South Korea Joins China, Japan, Singapore, Australia and More in Pioneering Visa-Free Access for Indonesian Tourists, Revolutionizing Travel and Strengthening Tourism Relations for 2026 and Beyond

In a groundbreaking move, South Korea has joined a growing list of nations, including China, Japan, Singapore, and Australia, in offering visa-free access to Indonesian tourists. This pioneering step is set to revolutionize travel between South Korea and Indonesia, fostering stronger ties and enhancing tourism relations for 2026 and beyond. By eliminating visa requirements, both countries are making travel more seamless and accessible, benefiting not only the tourism industry but also the broader economy. This policy shift opens up new opportunities for cultural exchange, business collaboration, and tourism growth. As the world continues to embrace more open borders, South Korea’s decision to grant Indonesian tourists visa-free entry is a significant milestone that promises to further cement the nations’ diplomatic and economic relationships, while providing travelers with easier access to explore vibrant destinations in South Korea.

South Korea has announced plans to offer visa-free entry to Indonesian tourists travelling in organised groups as part of its strategy to boost international tourism. This policy aims to simplify entry requirements and attract more visitors, making South Korea a top destination for international travellers.

The announcement was made during the 11th National Tourism Strategy Meeting on Wednesday, 25 February 2026. The meeting, chaired by President Lee Jae Myung, was attended by Prime Minister Kim Min Seok, officials from 15 government agencies, and tourism industry leaders. Culture Minister Chae Hwi Young introduced a key initiative called “K-Tourism Embracing the World,” which is focused on leveraging the global popularity of Korean culture to strengthen the country’s tourism sector.

As reported by The Korea Times, the visa-exemption policy will be introduced as a trial measure for Indonesian tourists who travel in groups of three or more people. To qualify for the policy, participants must apply through travel agencies approved by the South Korean Embassy. The government has indicated that the visa-free entry will be available until July 2026, though specific details regarding when the policy will formally take effect or if additional conditions will apply are yet to be announced.

This policy is part of a broader effort by South Korea to encourage more international visitors and to streamline entry barriers in the post-pandemic era. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, South Korea is focused on recovering its tourism industry. In 2025, the country welcomed more than 18 million international tourists, surpassing its previous record of 17 million visitors before the pandemic, according to The Korea Times. However, the number of visitors remains significantly lower compared to Japan, which recorded 42.7 million foreign tourists in 2025.

The visa-free initiative for Indonesian tourists is one of the key steps in South Korea’s effort to make travel to the country easier for visitors from countries across Asia. In addition to the group visa-free entry, South Korea also plans to offer expanded visa access to other international visitors. Citizens of China and Southeast Asian nations with prior visits to South Korea will qualify for five-year multiple-entry visas. In addition, residents of major cities in these regions will be able to apply for visas that are valid for up to ten years.

The South Korean government has also set its sights on improving the country’s immigration procedures, particularly through the expansion of automated immigration gates. These gates, which are currently available to travellers from 18 countries—including Japan, Singapore, and Australia—will soon be accessible to citizens from European Union member states as well. This move is expected to speed up the immigration process for a wider range of visitors and reduce congestion at airports.

In addition to efforts to ease entry for international tourists, South Korea is taking significant steps to encourage tourism outside the capital city, Seoul. The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport has announced plans to increase international flights to regional airports by offering special air traffic rights and reducing fees for airlines operating new routes to these airports. Furthermore, domestic connecting flights between Incheon International Airport and regional airports will be expanded to facilitate easier access to destinations beyond Seoul.

To complement these transportation improvements, South Korea will extend late-night airport bus services to the Chungcheong and Gangwon provinces, providing travellers with greater convenience when connecting to or from the airport. In addition, the government has decided to relax the current one-month booking limit for KTX high-speed train tickets, allowing for earlier reservations. This move aims to make long-distance travel within the country more accessible to both international visitors and local residents.

Accommodation has long been a challenge in some parts of South Korea, particularly outside Seoul, where demand for lodging can outstrip supply. In response to this, the government is introducing a new Accommodation Promotion Act aimed at addressing these shortages. The oversight of the accommodation sector will be consolidated under the Ministry of Culture, which will introduce a quality certification system to ensure that accommodations meet high standards. This initiative is expected to improve the overall tourism experience for visitors and create more consistent and reliable lodging options in both urban and rural areas.

In an innovative move, South Korea is also set to introduce a local version of Spain’s “parador” concept. The idea behind this initiative is to convert traditional houses, temples, and folk villages into accommodation for tourists. This concept aims to offer visitors a more authentic and immersive experience by staying in culturally significant and historical properties. The government believes that this initiative will not only help address accommodation shortages but also provide a unique selling point for South Korea’s tourism sector, especially for those interested in exploring the country’s rich history and culture.

All these efforts are part of South Korea’s broader strategy to strengthen its tourism infrastructure and attract a more diverse range of international visitors. The introduction of the visa-free policy for Indonesian tourists is just one of many measures designed to encourage travel to the country. The government’s focus on improving transportation, easing visa requirements, and expanding accommodation options is intended to create a more seamless and enjoyable experience for tourists.

South Korea’s new visa-free access for Indonesian tourists, joining nations like China, Japan, Singapore, and Australia, is set to transform travel by enhancing tourism, fostering economic ties, and simplifying travel for mutual growth from 2026 onwards.

South Korea’s commitment to enhancing its tourism industry is evident in the wide range of initiatives announced at the 11th National Tourism Strategy Meeting. From the introduction of visa-free entry for Indonesian tourists to the expansion of regional flight services and improvements in accommodation standards, the government is making significant strides to ensure that the country remains a top travel destination for visitors from around the world. With these efforts, South Korea is poised to continue its post-pandemic recovery and position itself as a leading player in the global tourism market.

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