Travel Secrets
FORBES magazine hosts Astra Suites Santorini
Below, the interview of Mr. George Karayiannis, Managing Director of Astra Suites, in FORBES magazine.
Which are the particular challenges when running such a successful hotel as Astra Suites?
To me the challenge is one and only. To maintain if not increase the reasons that make the hotel so successful! Also, to make all our guests feel that the reasons for which they selected us are real.
Why do the services of Astra Suites stand out and are rewarded?
Collective work is the secret. First of all, the members of the staff feel as if they work at home. 'At home' is how we like our guests to feel too. The staff is the soul of the hotel and it makes guests feel that we stand out for our service. I personally welcome all guests separately.
What do you think of boutique hotels in Greece when compared to those abroad?
I think Greek boutique hotels present guests with authentic hospitality and a distinct personality. What differentiates them from the corresponding boutique hotels abroad is certainly the authentic Greek hospitality.
How could we attract more high-end tourism as a country?
We should focus on the provision of proper services that reflect on the prices paid. Also, we should gain and maintain the state’s support on a regional level. This is vital because even when a hotel provides top services but the guest comes across with poor infrastructure and services in the location - ports, routes, taxis, roads etc - then this puts them off from promoting the tourist product of Greece in a positive way.
Do you think Greek hoteliers should adopt a philosophy?
The philosophy is one and comes as a legacy from the past. Hospitality. True hospitality, correct education of the people engaging in tourism and respecting the guest. Guests should always feel that their money is well spent.
Tell us a few things about Astra and its distinctions.
Astra Suites is a small hotel of 27 rooms in the area of Imerovigli which has hosted countless VIP guests from the international jet set. TripAdvisor features Astra Suites for the third consecutive year in the “Top 25 Hotels in the world”. For many years it was the best hotel in Europe, Conde Nast Johansens has awarded Astra as the “Most romantic hotel in the world” and it received the Gold Award in the category “Excellence in Customer Service” at the Greek Tourism Awards 2014. Nonetheless, the biggest distinction is the love of our customers and fans that gives us the strength to continue confirming our reputation.
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