PALMA
THE Chief Executive of Thomas Cook, the world's second largest tour operator, yesterday spelt out the challenges the Balearic tourism industry faces if it is to avoid having an even worse season next year.
Manny Fontenla-Novoa lead a delegation of Thomas Cook chiefs from across Europe to Palma yesterday for top level talks with local captains of the travel industry and the Minister for Tourism, Miguel Nadal. The Thomas Cook CEO said he is scared about the implications the proposed two percent hike in VAT in Spain will have on the tourist industry and amazed at the lack of funds the Balearics has to promote tourism. The Balearics has a promotional budget of 24 million, Egypt spends between 80 and 90 million euros, it's unbelievable and no way enough, he said yesterday during a post-meeting media briefing.