Trends for experiential travelers in Greece in 2014

In 2014, Greece is back in fashion and repositions itself on the experiential travel map by shaping itineraries beyond the sea and the sun, beyond the beach and the crystal clear waters. In line with a global trend to satisfy the discerning traveler, uses its authentic ingredients and heritage and offers experiences that are set to challenge, inspire and surprise the guests, away from every cliché we all have come across the last decades. Greece is set to become more than just a sea and sun destination and some of the recommended itineraries are as below: Wine and gourmet at home away form home It has been noted by the industry experts that in 2014 the demand for rented houses will outpace the hotel accommodation as guests are looking for privacy, space and bespoke service. In some of the finest private homes for rent in Greece clients  discover the richly varied cuisine of Greece which relies heavily on seasonal and local produce. Guests at the privacy of their own house enjoy award winning wines with a well trained sommelier who introduces  well-crafted and food-friendly wines while they indulge themselves in the art of local award-winning chefs preparing gourmet meals using grandma’s best-kept secrets. Guests are involved in the process and are taught chefs’ local recipes and techniques. The wine and gourmet itineraries are enhanced by touring the best Greek wineries, visiting local agricultural farms and meeting locals which are the best in the field. Ideal destination for such itineraries are Santorini, Paros, Crete and Porto Heli while there are bespoke designs for family vacations, singles, group of friends or corporate events. Yoga and detox retreats overlooking the Aegean Sea Greece enjoys sunshine form March to October and becomes a preferred destination for yoga retreats throughout that period. Yoga connects the soul with the body and nature and Greece offers a natural landscape under a unique light to rejuvenate and calibrate internal awareness, guided by some of the best expert teachers. Itineraries include yoga, detox fasting, dynamic yoga and hot yoga, in most cases combined with soft adventure such as running, trekking and cycling while appealing to families, ladies and groups. Depending on the destination, the travel design can include healing holistic therapies and healthy gourmet recipes. Ideal destinations for yoga retreats are Mykonos in June/September, Paros, Antiparos and Patmos. Photography island hopping tours Photography island hopping tours offer a unique experience to see the unseen, to discover Greece through your own eyes and produce your personal vacation book to share with your friends and family. A photography tour in the Greek islands is a journey guided by some of the best travel and food photographers and guides who share their passion and knowledge of using the unique Greek light that has already inspired many artists in the world. The tours are combined with chartering rib boats or yachts with a chef on board while the bespoke approach allows for exploring what different times of the day has to offer. An ideal destination is Patmos with the nearby small islands of Lipsi and Marathi. Maria Nikolakaki is Managing Partner at Beyond Spaces Villas.