a collection of guides highlighting the year-round appeal of Greece’s most popular destinations, courtesy of our favorite local tastemakers. In this edition, we speak to
feels to me,” says Agapi Sbokou, co-owner and CEO of the Greek hotel brand Phāea. Sbokou grew up in
but has lived in Athens since she was 18. “There was never really a debate about where to live. We go back and forth between Athens and Crete, but the city just feels so buzzy. It’s a place that is constantly transforming.”
Sbokou knows a thing or two about why people are drawn to a particular destination. “When you go to a place, it should be about understanding the local rhythm,” she tells me. “I’m in love with Athens. It’s a place that you can continue exploring your whole life.” Here, Agapi explains why
is so magical in the Greek capital, and lets us in on some of her favorite places to visit at this time of year.
Walking around and exploring. The city transforms with the seasons, and it feels completely connected with nature. For example, my neighborhood is full of these beautiful trees called jacarandas, which have very small, lilac flowers. They completely transform the whole neighborhood when they bloom. Elsewhere in the city, some areas are filled with bitter orange trees, which also have a strong scent when they bloom.
There are a lot of young people here, and recently a lot of young travelers are coming to stay and live in
. They all come with a very open heart and the desire to explore as we, the locals, do. Athens is not about what’s cool and what’s not—it’s about discovering new things, revisiting old places, and watching the city transform over time. That’s what I love.
Boats are available for hire from Agapi’s company Phāea Blue
Sursă: https://www.cntraveler.com/story/athens-off-season-greece-hotelier-agapi-sbokou