The lift of anti-COVID restrictions has brought up the number of tourists in North Macedonia.

“The interest this year has been quite high. A positive aspect is that we’re receiving bookings very early and we’re nearly 2 months ahead of schedule in terms of filling up our flights and hotels,” – said Veton Grupi, tourist operator.

However, for Macedonian citizens, summer vacations aren’t part of the plan. Many of them said that they don’t have the financial means to go on vacation this year.

“We won’t be going on vacation this year because we don’t have the money,” – said a Macedonian woman.

Meanwhile, tourist operators say that there’s a definite increase in prices for tour packages. This has come as a result of price hikes especially when it comes to the rise in fuel prices.

Citizens also admit to a considerable rise in prices compared to last year.

“We have definitely felt the crisis but there has also been a rise in vacation packages. While checking, I noticed at least a 20-30% rise in prices compared to last year. It’s understandable that the war had an impact on this and everyone has felt it in their family budgets,” – said another citizen.

Tour operators in Albania are saying that there should be a better organization in order to attract as many tourists from North Macedonia to Albania, as a way to liven up both economies ahead of the summer season.