Page 128 - ATHENS RIVIERA JOURNAL 2022

ATHENS RIVIERA JOURNAL
influence

which is the fuel that inspires us individually and collectively and drives our com- of is the calming ambience we have managed to create in all of our hotels. Every cor-
pany forward. Last but not least, we value innovation and distinction; we do things ner is imbued with a sense of serenity and as soon as I step in, I can disconnect from
in our own distinctive way by being the destination authority, while always striving everything else and enjoy the vibe, while carefully observing how this same energy
for continuous improvement. flows from our associates to our guests.
What do you believe is the greatest asset that the Kanava Hotels & Resorts expe- What do you believe is the biggest challenge that you’ll face this year?
rience offers, and what makes it stand out? I think that our biggest challenge this year is to accommodate the high demand, as
At Kanava Hotels & Resorts we aspire to offer our guests the Greek essence of distinc- people are so eager to travel, without adequate human resources. We have struggled
tive hospitality. Except from the exceptional five-star service our teams offer to our to find the right people for the growing needs of our guests, and I understand that
guests, and our commitment to refined gastronomy, holistic wellbeing and authentic this is a global challenge. I feel that the most important aspect is that all of us in
culture, I believe the greatest asset of our hotels is the respect for the locality of each tourism need to change the general perception and communicate the message that
destination. Our properties embrace the local architecture, traditions, rituals, con- Hospitality is not an industry, but a profession. We have to create engagement ener-
nect with the local community and most importantly, offer guests the opportunity gy in our properties, so that we generate the hospitality professionals of tomorrow.
to do the same, while enjoying an elevated and sophisticated hospitality experience. What is the first place that you would go to in order to relax and rejuvenate?
What is your vision and philosophy of hospitality for our national tourism product? This is a very difficult choice, as I am deeply connected with each one of our prop-
I would love to see our local brand emit to the world the sophistication we live and erties, but if I had to choose one then it would probably be Parīlio, as the energy of
breathe. In an international context, there tends to be a false perception that Greece this place is truly unique and has a transformative power that rejuvenates. However,
is all about the sea, the sun and the fun. Our guests at Kanava Hotels & Resorts the place that has stolen my heart and has made me feel almost like I was born there,
are beyond overwhelmed to learn that as a country we have so much more to offer is Oitylo village at Mani peninsula, where we have created a lovely cottage house and
in gastronomy, music, art and culture. We always strive to promote this elevated I cherish all memories I am creating with my family and friends there.
side of Greece, disseminate Greek values and heritage, and in doing so to propagate What do you love most about working in the travel industry?
Greece’s new message to the world. The opportunity to search and showcase the authentic side of a well-known desti-
How do you think the landscape of the Athenian Riviera will change in the com-
ing years as a result of the projects at Ellinikon?
Undoubtedly the transformation of the Athenian Riviera will upgrade the area,
add to the city’s prestige and attract high-end investors and tourists. As an Atheni- "I believe that slowly but
an lover and a South of Athens native, I am looking forward to seeing the end re-
sult-undoubtedly striking- as I strongly believe that Athens has immense potential steadily Athens is gaining
and I am so excited to see it flourish!
Do you think the transformation of the Athenian Riviera will lengthen the its proper position among
tourist season?
I believe that slowly but steadily Athens is gaining its proper position among the the Metropoles of Europe
Metropoles of Europe and I see it becoming a year-round destination attracting a
diverse crowd that will contribute to its sensorial transformation. and I see it becoming a
How do you view Greek tourism as a whole? Are there any brands that stand out?
Greece has immense potential and I believe we can achieve great things if we invest
in synergies between destinations, hotels, and all different business related to tour- year-round destination."
ism. Looking to the future, we need to follow the need for the tourism sector to
implement green policies, incorporate new technologies and create products and
infrastructure that cater to traveler preferences towards sustainability, learning some-
thing new, volunteering, living an adventure, or nomadic sabbaticals, among others,
that will in turn prompt the tourism and travel industry to adapt and transform.
Working collectively towards a goal can create far greater results than each of us on
our own. Among the Greek brands that I love and stand out are Phāea Resorts for nation. I always try first the experiences we then curate for our guests and I research
their passion, environmental consciousness and humancentric approach and Temes a lot to discover local hidden gems and learn for myself, before I blend them with
for their vision, commitment and innovation. the destination and hotel offering. That has offered me the opportunity to meet
What gives you the most satisfaction in your day-to-day running of the Kanava wonderful people coming from different paths of life and see life through their "We strongly believe in the ‘joy of life’ both for our guests,
projects? eyes. For me, it always comes down to the human factor, whether it is meeting with
Every time that I visit one of our properties, what satisfies me the most is the energy locals or seeing the joy in our guests’ eyes, through our hero associates that are the but also for our people who make everything possible."
I receive immediately, that brings a big smile on my face. What we are most proud wind beneath our wings. 

128 129