Corfu Short-Term Rental Sector: ΄Putting People First, Not Walls΄

To: Ministry of Tourism
Subject: Putting People First, Not Walls

Dear Sirs,

Following the recent public statements and proposals by the Corfu Hotel Chamber regarding the “suspension of new short-term rental licences” on the island, we feel the need to speak out as representatives of a sector that has proven its significance and value for the local community, the economy, and Corfu’s tourism product itself. Tourism in Corfu is not the privilege of a single sector. It is a matter for all of us. Short-term rentals have proven that they put people first, not walls.

Corfu reality today

Corfu is an island that lives and breathes tourism. Short-term rentals have brought life back to neighbourhoods that were left empty, kept young people on the island, and helped families supplement their income. This is not a luxury; it is an activity that supports society in its daily life.

Short-term rentals have played a crucial role in revitalising the Old Town and, more broadly, the town centre. Buildings that remained abandoned and in poor condition for decades have been brought back to life through renovation, giving new energy to neighbourhoods left to decay. Dozens of alleys have transformed, gaining character, colour, and functionality—elements that highlight the uniqueness of the town’s historic fabric while boosting the local economy and tourism.

At the same time, the concept of a free market relies on healthy competition. No law states that hoteliers should be free from competition; on the contrary, competition drives continuous investment and improvements to the tourism product. Only in this way can Corfu remain a modern, high-quality destination.

Economic contribution to the local market

Unlike all-inclusive packages, where much of the spending stays within the hotel, short-term rental visitors primarily spend in the local community.

According to international studies (Oxford Economics, 2025), for every €100 spent on a short-term rental, visitors spend an average of €250 in the local economy—at tavernas, bakeries, mini-markets, local shops, taxis, excursions, and activities.

Behind every guest staying in a short-term rental is a social footprint: the café that fills up, the greengrocer that sells more, the taxi driver transporting families, the local producer selling their goods. Short-term rentals do more than just keep the lights on in homes—they bring neighbourhoods to life. They put people first, not walls.

Jobs and income

Our sector creates and sustains thousands of jobs:

• Directly, through cleaning, maintenance, technical services, and management.

• Indirectly, by supporting catering, retail, transport, and numerous other professions.

Behind every short-term rental is a family relying on that income, a young person who found work locally, a neighbourhood revitalised thanks to its visitors.

This is the real impact of our activity on Corfu’s society. It is complementary, not competitive. We are not opponents of hotels. We recognise their contribution to Corfu’s tourism product.

Short-term rentals, however, serve different marets—families, groups, visitors seeking autonomy and an authentic experience. They are not a threat but a complement to the hotel sector.

Corfu’s tourism model must be based on diversity, balance, and fair competition. Only then will the island remain a sustainable and attractive destination for all.

Conclusion

We ask the Ministry of Tourism and the local community to recognise the reality:

• Without short-term rentals, Corfu cannot meet demand.

• Small businesses, workers, and island families rely on them.

• The solution is not bans but clear and fair rules for everyone.

Because at the end of the day, we put people first, not walls. That is how we build a Corfu we all share.

Sincerely,

Corfu Escapes, Vesa, Keyplanner, Deluxe Maison Management, donKey, LoveBnB, StayEasy, Nomas