Mediterranean tourism after the Arab revolutions: what are the indications of the 2011 season?

After the regional turbulence, what first impressions can be made of the tourist season in Tunisia and in the SEMCs?

On the southern side of the Mediterranean, the tourism sector is being put to the test by the Arab spring. The Tunisian and Egyptian revolts, the war in Libya and the troubles in Syria have (not surprisingly) repelled the arrival of foreign tourists. During the 2011 summer season, the loss of tourist revenue is significant and is causing concern for most SEMCs. Nevertheless, beyond the short term economic repercussions of this crisis, the democratic transition in some of these countries is the occasion to rebuild the sector.

Including :

Ahmed Smaoui, former minister, former director of the Tunisian national tourism office.
And Jürgen Bachmann, secretary general of CETO, the Association of Tour Operators.