Greece’s tourist industry is getting ready for yet another blockbuster summer and travel giant Thomas Cook wants a starring role.

It has announced it will put $150 million into strengthening its position in the Greek travel industry with the creation of a number of hotels and boutiques.

Four new hotels have already opened in Rhodes, Chania, Kos and Hersonissos, but another nine are set to follow by 2019.

Thomas Cook chief Peter Fankhausen says the future for travel business is bright for Greece.

“Greece has grown fast in the last two years to become Thomas Cook’s second-biggest destination. Since 2016, we have opened up new regions to our customers including northern Greece and added new airline routes into the country and its beautiful islands”, said Fankhausen at the opening of a new hotel in Crete today.

Greece’s minister of tourism, Elena Kountoura also attended the opening and welcomed the investment, hailing her country’s attractions in the process.

“Greece is a globally attractive destination 365 days a year, emerging as an outstanding choice for unique, truly authentic travel experiences in the Mediterranean and Europe,” she said.

“We support and welcome new investment projects in the dynamically growing Greek tourism sector that enhance the experience and the overall quality of our tourist product.

“Our strategic partnership is important in further promoting new Greek destinations and expanding our year-round tourism offering, focusing on the benefits yielded for the local communities through sustainable tourism growth”.