Santorini, one of Greece’s most beloved travel destinations, is cautiously stepping into a new tourist season after a series of earthquakes in February rattled the island. The seismic activity, which prompted a state of emergency and forced thousands to flee, had raised concerns that the island’s tourism-dependent economy would take a major hit.
Now, with no significant damage reported and safety measures in place, Santorini is open once again. The arrival of the first cruise ship of the season, the Celestyal Discovery, marked a hopeful new beginning as 1,700 eager travelers, mostly from the U.S., set foot on the island’s famous whitewashed streets.
For local businesses, the return of visitors is a lifeline. “We all feared the worst, but seeing tourists back gives us hope,” said Tassos Kontos, a shop owner in Fira.
Authorities have reassured travelers that the island is safe while also planning an evacuation port as a precaution against future quakes. Despite the uncertainty, Santorini remains as breathtaking as ever, with its stunning caldera views and iconic sunsets drawing visitors who refuse to let nature’s tremors keep them away.
As the new season begins, both locals and tourists are looking ahead with optimism, eager to restore Santorini’s vibrant energy and ensure that its timeless beauty continues to captivate the world.