Our latest Agent Insight came from Paphos-based Travel Counsellor Maria Demosthenous, who gave us a rundown on the possibilities that await. Her one non-negotiable? Hospitality, or, as the Greeks say, 'filotimo'.
"United by history, culture, religion and tradition, Greece and Cyprus are two in the same; an extension of each other.
"As a Greek-Cypriot myself, living in Cyprus, I’m a blend of both destinations and naturally know what to recommend to travellers to showcase my heritage. When anyone asks me for a Greece or Cyprus trip, I’ll do my best to make sure it’s a journey of discovery from start to finish.
"Whatever the season, there are loads of possibilities to explore the authentic Greece or Cyprus. The sun and sea, have always been great elements when visiting these parts of the Med, but unless you craft an itinerary to include the mix of culture, history, nature and tradition, customers may not be able to have that 'life-changing experience.'
"The National Tourism Boards of both destinations have focused heavily on bringing across the messages of 'Discover Greece' and 'Cyprus: a Fusion of Experiences'. These should not be overlooked and when you explore them in depth you’ll certainly understand why.
"Hospitality, or, as we Greeks call it, 'Filotimo,' is like breathing to Greeks – showing kindness and generosity without expecting anything in return. This is Greek and Cypriot nature, and what every visitor should seek to experience.
"Island after island, offering amazing history, nature, landscapes and the freshest, most delicious foods. Don’t just leave your customers to settle with just one, join the dots across the Aegean or Ionian seas, with ferries or yachts, and offer them endless unique experiences.
"This goes for Cyprus too, offer the mix of beach and mountains. Throw in the car hire for the freedom and guide them from the coast, up the hills to traditional villages, to mingle with the locals, sample the wines, drink the coffee, relish delicacies in tavernas and get into the heart of the destination in search of hidden gems.
"Among the countless possibilities, both destinations are perfect for nature lovers, active & sports enthusiasts, weddings & honeymoons, agrotourism, wellness retreats, religious pilgrimages, history buffs, gastronomy tours, maritime & diving, or just mapping out the perfect road trip adventure.
"From my experience, for any carefully planned trip to Greece or Cyprus, one thing is certain: your customers will definitely want to visit again, and again, to continue their journey of discovery.
Maria Demosthenous is a Travel Counsellor based in Paphos, Cyprus.
