Fresh from its win as the Best Luxury Romantic Resort in Greece at the Luxury Lifestyle Awards, Aquila Elounda Village stands proudly among the world’s most romantic retreats. Today, Alexander Chetchikov, President of the World Luxury Chamber of Commerce, is honored to be joined by Volyrakis Michalis, General Manager of the resort, in an exclusive interview. This conversation dives deep into the meaning of luxury, the evolution of hospitality, and the vision behind Aquila Elounda Village‘s success.

Alexander Chetchikov: What does “luxury” mean to you personally, and how is that philosophy brought to life at Aquila Elounda Village?

Volyrakis Michalis: To me, true luxury is the quiet art of anticipating a guest’s desires before they are even voiced. It’s not defined by extravagance alone, but by authenticity, attention to detail, and emotional connection. At Aquila Elounda Village, we curate an experience where every touchpoint—from the welcome drink to the last farewell—is personalized, discreet, and heartfelt. We draw inspiration from our Cretan heritage, blending traditional hospitality with modern elegance to create unforgettable moments of intimacy and comfort.

AC: Aquila Elounda Village recently received the title of Best Luxury Romantic Resort in Greece. What key elements do you think set the guest experience apart at this property?

VM: This recognition is a profound honor. What sets us apart is the ambiance we craft for each couple. Secluded spaces, candlelit dinners under the stars, private pools overlooking the bay. But more than amenities, it’s the feeling we evoke: that our guests have stepped into a sanctuary where time slows down, and love takes center stage. Our team’s passion for excellence, combined with our location’s breathtaking beauty, creates a symphony of romance that stays with our guests long after they depart.

AC: Many consider romance and privacy essential to luxury. How do you maintain this balance for couples seeking an intimate escape?

VM: Privacy is a cornerstone of the Aquila Elounda Village experience. Our resort is designed with intimacy in mind. Adult-only accommodations, suites with private terraces, and quiet corners nestled in nature. We respect the sacred space of our guests’ time together while being ever-present to meet their needs. It’s a balance of invisibility and attentiveness, which our team has perfected over the years. The result is an experience that feels both personal and profoundly private.

AC: Luxury continues to evolve. How does Aquila Elounda Village stay relevant while preserving its distinct character and charm?

VM: We evolve by listening—truly listening—to our guests and the world around us. While maintaining our timeless architectural elegance, we embrace new technologies, wellness trends, and bespoke services that enhance the guest journey. But our core—our identity as a romantic haven infused with authentic Greek soul—remains unchanged. We don’t chase trivial trends; we refine experiences. This continuity gives us both resilience and relevance.

AC: Looking at the broader hospitality industry, how do you see guest expectations shifting in the post-pandemic era?

VM: Guests today seek deeper meaning from their travels. It’s no longer just about indulgence; it’s about connection, well-being, and authenticity. Privacy and flexibility have become non-negotiables. At Aquila Elounda Village, we’ve embraced this shift by offering more personalized, health-conscious, and immersive experiences—whether it’s private wellness sessions, tailored culinary journeys, or digital-free zones for mindfulness. The human touch, though, remains irreplaceable.

AC: What role does sustainability play in luxury hospitality today, and how has your team adapted to these global conversations?

VM: Sustainability is now an integral part of luxury. Discerning guests want their stay to be as kind to the planet as it is indulgent. At Aquila Elounda Village, we’ve adopted eco-conscious practices without compromising on comfort—from local sourcing and energy efficiency to plastic reduction and biodiversity initiatives. We believe that preserving the beauty of Crete is not just our responsibility—it’s a promise to future generations of travelers.

AC: From a leadership perspective, what’s your approach to inspiring a team that consistently delivers world-class service?

VM: Leadership, to me, is about cultivating a shared purpose. I believe in leading by example through consistency, empathy, and integrity. Our team is our greatest asset; many have been with us for years, and their commitment shines through in every guest interaction. We invest in training, yes, but more importantly, we invest in a culture of pride and respect. When a team feels valued and empowered, excellence becomes second nature.

AC: Finally, what advice would you offer to emerging hoteliers looking to thrive in the luxury segment of the industry?

VM: Understand that luxury is not about what you offer, it’s about how you make people feel. Never stop listening, learning, and evolving. Build a team that shares your passion and values. And above all, stay true to your location’s spirit. Luxury must feel grounded, not fabricated. In our case, the soul of Elounda and the warmth of Cretan hospitality are the foundations upon which we build every experience.

We extend our sincere thanks to Volyrakis Michalis for sharing his insights into luxury hospitality and the inspiration behind one of Greece’s most celebrated resorts.

To learn more, visit https://eloundavillage.com/.