**Ayia Napa Mayor Defends Sunbed Price Hike with Promise of Better Services**
Ayia Napa, Cyprus – As municipalities across Cyprus implement increases in charges for sunbeds and umbrellas on organized beaches this summer, Ayia Napa's mayor, Christos Zannettou, has stepped forward to defend the price hikes. The maximum fee for a beach set, which includes two sunbeds and one umbrella, has risen from €7.50 to €10, a change approved by the central beach committee. This adjustment marks the first significant increase in nearly two decades.
Local authorities argue that the higher fees are essential to support upgraded facilities and services on the beaches. Zannettou emphasized that the new pricing remains competitive compared to other tourist destinations, stating that the cost of organized beach facilities in Cyprus is "almost below 50 percent of the amount charged in other countries" for similar services.
Despite the justification for the increase, consumer organizations have expressed concerns, warning that the higher charges are adding to the financial pressures faced by households. Complaints have surfaced regarding alleged overcharging practices, difficulties in renting individual items, and confusion over the application of official pricing rules.
In response to these concerns, Zannettou reassured beachgoers that public access to beaches remains protected. He highlighted that designated free areas are still available for those who prefer to use their own equipment, such as umbrellas and sunbeds. Furthermore, he clarified that visitors are not obligated to rent complete sets; individuals can rent a single sunbed, although umbrellas must be rented separately.
The mayor acknowledged reports from consumers who claimed they were forced to pay for full sets despite only wanting individual items. While he noted that the committee had not officially received complaints regarding the refusal to rent single sunbeds or umbrellas, he recognized that such situations can lead to unpleasant experiences for visitors. Zannettou stated, "For a competent authority to refuse to rent a citizen even a bed certainly causes unpleasant situations, which must be avoided."
He encouraged beachgoers who feel they have been treated unfairly to first raise their concerns with beach managers. If the issue remains unresolved, they can escalate their complaints to the relevant municipality and, if necessary, to the central beach committee for further consideration.
Zannettou also highlighted that local authorities are committed to improving beach facilities and supporting tourism infrastructure. Over the past three years, the Ayia Napa municipality has invested more than €2 million in beach upgrades, including enhancements to sanitary facilities. Currently, seven employees are dedicated to maintaining these facilities at organized beaches within the municipality.
Regarding pricing, Zannettou explained that businesses operating sunbeds and umbrellas on beaches adjacent to their premises may set their own prices, provided they comply with legal regulations and do not operate within protected coastal zones. However, operators on beaches under local authority jurisdiction must adhere to the fees established by the municipality and the central beach committee.
When asked about the possibility of further price increases, Zannettou indicated that he does not foresee any additional hikes during the remainder of his term as committee president. He expressed hope for a successful tourism season, stating, "We hope that tourism will do well and all of this will be evaluated along the way."
As the summer season progresses, Ayia Napa and other municipalities in Cyprus will continue to navigate the balance between enhancing beach services and addressing consumer concerns regarding pricing and accessibility.