In Dialogue

influence

THE HOSPITALITY TRAILBLAZER

Elia Kentrota sets the rhythm for the innovative era of Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens.

Respecting the natural beauty of the Athenian Riviera and having a flair for soft diplomacy, the Director of Communications and Public Relations of Four Seasons Astir

Palace Hotel Athens creates the path leading the area to a year-round glory. As data suggest Greek tourism recovery to pre-pandemic levels, with Athens already reaping the benefits, how do you think this summer season in Athens will fare?

Actually, this season is even better than expected. With international travelers from all over the world arriving to Athens especially the US ones, craving to travel to

Europe and other summer destinations, we see a huge demand that will establish Greece as the ultimate destination not only for the summer season but year around. Regarding the Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens ethos, what is your vision and philosophy of hospitality for our national tourism product?

Everything we do is connected to our founder’s simple moto «Treat others as you wish to be treated». It goes to both guests and employees. Each and any of us is the ambassador for its country so we are all tied up with our national tourism product.

Interview by ELSA SOIMIRI

What do you believe is the greatest asset that the experience offers, and what makes it stand out? Beautiful buildings can be found, settings can be found, but it is the humans that make the difference and the way you made them feel while their stay. The personal touch, recognizing a familiar face, genuine smiles and impeccable service are what make the difference. How does Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens harmonise its plans with the environment, and what initiatives have you foreseen in sustainability? As the whole planet harmonises with a more ecofriendly system, sustainability is a big part of our transformation. At FS, we have the plastic zero policy, solar panels, food waste management and recycling in everything we do as part of our everyday life. We have a long path to cross until we get to the ideal point but we are getting closer and closer every day. How do you view Greek tourism as a whole? Are there any brands that stand out overseas which you consider hospitality industry benchmarks? You can see the sifting on Greek tourism as a whole in every aspect. From small family business to top tier luxurious brands, Greece has so many experiences to offer to all inbound guests. Four Seasons was the first brand >

GEORGE BOLBASSIS

influence

"Most of our guests are not even aware that Athens is surrounded by sea. Imagine that this location is 35’ from the city center."

Elia Kentrota loves this location of Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens even more during winter where the colors are brighter, the sunset is purple and pink and the coast is full of surfers! that opened its doors to Athens and many hospitality brands are following such as One&Only, Mandarin Oriental, W and many more to come. How do you think the amazing landscape of the Athenian Riviera will change in the coming years as a result of the new projects at Ellinikon? This is a unique project with many aspects and a great opportunity for the Greek market. Lots of new job openings, local vendors and business will be a great beneficial for the whole community. New investments are happening and we need to be smart enough as a country to maintain our authenticity, and honest hospitality that made us popular over the past years, as well as be respectful with the nature “kallos” of the area. Do you think the transformation of the Athenian Riviera will lengthen the tourist season? Absolutely. This is one of the biggest challenges we are facing during shoulder months. While summers are extremely popular for both locals and international guests, winters are very quiet. There are many opportunities to expand our season as incentive trips, culinary experiences and promote the Riviera as a wellness destination. What secrets would you share about the Athenian Riviera and Greece overall with a foreign visitor? Most of our guests are not even aware that Athens is surrounded by sea. Imagine that this location is 20 minutes away from the Airport, 35 min from the city center and you can return to the Riviera and have the absolute island feeling! What gives you the most satisfaction in your day-today running of the Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens projects? We start by heart and we continue with passion! Every >

GEORGE BOLBASSIS