The sun as a competitive advantage of the tropics

The sun is a major competitive advantage of the tropics, attracting many visitors for its beneficial properties. Tropical areas, such as Crete, and Greece in general, have sunshine most of the year. Greece has more than 250 days a year and 3,000 hours of sunshine.

More specifically, sunlight has a beneficial effect on both physical and mental health. Below we list some of the benefits of the sun to humans, which visitors to Greece seek and enjoy.

Sunlight is a natural source of vitamin D which is the nutrient that helps the body absorb Calcium and enhances bone growth. It is also important for immune function and improving psychological mood.

Exposure to the sun activates the production of serotonin, a substance that causes feelings of euphoria and happiness. Typically, lack of sunlight, especially during winter, has been linked to Seasonal Affective Disorder, a form of depression associated with the change of season.

Sunlight, especially in the morning, helps the body to regulate its internal clock (circadian rhythm). This improves the quality of sleep and helps the body maintain a balance in the sleep cycle.

It contributes significantly to skin health and helps treat certain skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema and acne. It helps in the synthesis of vitamin D which is essential for skin health.

Studies have shown that natural light can lower blood pressure. This helps reduce the chances of heart disease.

In general, natural light is beneficial to human health. It reduces the likelihood of certain chronic diseases, including certain types of cancer, various sclerosis and two types of diabetes.

Despite the significant positive effect of the sun on human health and well-being, we cannot fail to mention its unpleasant consequences. Indiscriminate and excessive sun exposure can cause burns, premature ageing and increase the chance of skin cancer.

Tourist resorts seek to give their guests the positive aspects of this unique element of the tropics, which is the sun. Outdoor equipment for swimming pools and beaches ensures not only the pleasant stay of guests in the sunlight but also protects them from the unpleasant consequences of overexposure. This is why they are an integral part of the

goodwill

to tourist facilities located in tropical areas with high sunshine.