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Yannis Bellonias

Having made waves in his native Santorini with a trio of boutique hotels, the founder of Vora Villas sails to a private paradise in the Ionian Sea for a fanstasy break, where the setting, soundtrack and seafood take centre stage.

Where are you?

Skorpios, a private island in the Ionian Sea that was previously owned by Aristotle Onassis and was his own oasis.

How did you get there? On board a private yacht.

Who is there to greet you on arrival?

The dedicated staff that take care of the island. They live here all year round and know everything there is to know about the place.

And who’s at the concierge desk?

Thomas, the wonderful concierge who looks after guests at Bellonias Villas, my beachside property in Santorini.

Who are you sharing your room with?

My family, no question.

Is there anything you would like waiting for you in your room?

A bottle of Merlot – preferably Kokkinomylos by Tselepos – as well as local delicacies to snack on. I’d also like a good sound system for my playlists, and information detailing the history of the island. Oh and a good coffee machine too!

NOTABLE HOTEL PROJECTS Vora Villas, Bellonias Villas, Hotel 28 – Santorini, Greece www.voravillas.com

Describe the hotel, your room and the view...

Our room looks out onto a perfect sandy beach with the endless blue of the sea beyond, while the design is contemporary and minimalist in style with thoughtful details of local architecture reflected throughout. The hotel is elegant, extremely well maintained – as if it’s the first day it opened – and totally private.

Who designed it?

Konstantinos Dekavallas – one of Greece’s greatest architects.

What’s the restaurant and bar like?

It has a relaxed beach vibe with an understated design of muted colours, low lighting and handcrafted wooden furniture enhanced by views of the sand and sea. There’s a great playlist in the background, of course.

Who are you dining with this evening?

American film director Woody Allen, Israeli musician Avishai Cohen, singer-songwriter Bob Dylan and Barack Obama. Onassis is here too.

Who’s manning the stoves?

Lefteris Lazarou, the Greek master of fish! He cooks whatever the ocean has to offer using fresh ingredients and traditional techniques.

And what’s on the menu?

I choose only a Negroni infused with cherry tomato and thyme. I will let Lazarou take care of the rest, he always finds the best way to serve his catch. After all, it’s not a fancy restaurant; it is on the beach so I’m barefoot and covered in sea salt. The only thing I care about is the food and the skill of the master who cooks it.

Would you like something to drink with that?

A glass of Assyrtiko - the finest white wine to complement fish.

What’s in the mini-bar for a midnight snack?

Handmade chocolates.

What’s on your nightstand at bedtime?

My phone or tablet to play music.

What’s your essential travel companion?

Music and my son, Vangelis.

Would you like a newspaper or magazine in the morning?

A newspaper with a good sports section and plenty of my favourite design magazines.

What toiletries would you like to freshen-up?

Aesop.

Early morning alarm call or late check-out?

Late check-out.

Bath or power-shower?

Power-shower with a sea view.

Full English, continental or something different?

A Greek breakfast! Simply the best.

Swimming pool, spa or gym?

If I’m in my dream hotel, the gym can wait!