Following VILLABEAT’s recent win for Best Luxury Villa Rental and Accommodation Services in Greece from Luxury Lifestyle Awards, we present an exclusive discussion with co-founder and general manager Achilleas Koukkos. Led by Alexander Chetchikov, President of the World Luxury Chamber of Commerce, this conversation explores the company’s approach to luxury, service excellence, and the evolving landscape of villa hospitality. As VILLABEAT continues to rise as a leader in Greece’s high-end travel sector, Achilleas offers insight into what defines their success.

Alexander Chetchikov: VILLABEAT has just been awarded Best Luxury Villa Rental and Accommodation Services in Greece. What does this recognition represent for you and your team?

Achilleas Koukkos: This award is a powerful affirmation of our vision — to redefine Greek hospitality through authenticity, attention to detail, and personalized service. It’s a tribute to our incredible team, who pour passion into every guest experience, and to the villa owners who trust us to represent their properties at the highest standard. For us, every guest is like a friend, and we host them with the same warmth and care we would offer our family. Our mission is simple: happy guests, happy friends.

AC: How would you describe the essence of luxury as it is experienced through VILLABEAT’s villas and services?

AK: For us, luxury is not just about opulence — it’s about effortless comfort and emotional connection. True luxury lies in feeling completely at ease, surrounded by beauty, authenticity, and people who genuinely care. You can find villas through many competitors, but what truly matters is the experience. That is what makes Villabeat special — the way we connect with our guests, creating memories that last forever. It’s no coincidence we have only 5-star reviews; every detail, from architecture to service, is crafted with love and sincerity.

AC: Many guests seek highly personalized stays. What do you believe today’s luxury traveller values most when choosing a villa experience?

AK: Modern travellers value authenticity, privacy, and personalization. They want to connect with the soul of Greece — its people, food, and culture. From the moment of booking, our concierge teams for each destination start identifying each guest’s needs to tailor activities and services to them personally. By the time they arrive, everything is prepared to perfection. Whether it’s their first visit or they return every year, we honor their trust and make sure every stay feels like coming home.

AC: From private chefs to yacht excursions, VILLABEAT offers a wide range of premium services. How do these features elevate the overall luxury offering?

AK: Our concierge philosophy is built around anticipation. Guests shouldn’t have to ask — their needs are already foreseen. Whether it’s a sunset cruise, a private dinner under the stars, or an island-hopping adventure, our teams create seamless experiences that reflect each guest’s personality. We treat every guest as a friend and strive to exceed their expectations with genuine care. This personal approach transforms a vacation into a lifelong memory.

AC: VILLABEAT operates across multiple Greek islands. What are the biggest operational challenges in managing such an expansive villa network?

AK: Each island has its own rhythm, culture, and logistical nuances. Our strength lies in our local presence and dedicated concierge teams in every destination. This ensures consistency in service and the ability to uncover hidden gems that only locals know. It is all about authenticity — we want our guests to feel the real spirit of each place they visit, not just the polished tourist version.

AC: You personally inspect every villa before it enters your portfolio. How does this hands-on approach influence the brand’s reputation and guest satisfaction?

AK: Our curation process is deeply personal. I visit every villa myself to ensure it meets both aesthetic and operational standards. This attention to detail guarantees that each property reflects the Villabeat DNA: elegant design, authentic charm, and flawless functionality. It also strengthens our relationships with villa owners, ensuring trust and shared values. For our guests, it means peace of mind knowing that every villa we represent has been personally approved and lived through by us.

AC: With new markets such as the USA, the Middle East, and Europe showing increased demand, how is VILLABEAT preparing for broader international reach?

AK: We are growing through long-term collaborations with high-tier travel agents and luxury networks worldwide, always caring the same sense of responsibility towards our partners as we do towards our direct guests. This mutual respect and trust are why our collaborations last for years.

While technology and AI tools can support efficiency, we remain true to our core values — personal connection and genuine care. Although bookings typically take place during office hours, we choose to stay available and responsive at any time of day or night. Our guests often experience our willingness to personally assist them even beyond working hours, because we care deeply about understanding their emotions and ensuring every detail is perfect. Naturally, our dedicated concierge teams operate 24/7 across all destinations — always ready to fulfill every need. This human connection and heartfelt dedication are what truly define Villabeat and why our guests remain our happiest friends.

AC: The concierge division is a core part of your service model. What strategies ensure that the on-site teams deliver consistently high-quality experiences across all destinations?

AK: Training and empathy are at the heart of our operations. Our teams are not just service providers — they are hosts. We invest in building local expertise and emotional intelligence so that every interaction is warm, discreet, and genuine. Whether it’s a once-in-a-lifetime trip or a yearly tradition, every guest is treated with the same dedication. This is our philosophy and the foundation of our success.

“At Villabeat, we see our guests as friends. Our passion is to create moments that feel effortless, authentic, and unforgettable. Each smile and thank-you reminds us why we do what we do. Our motto is simple: happy guests, happy friends. This gives us the drive to keep growing, serving, and sharing the true spirit of Greek hospitality.”

We extend our sincere thanks to Achilleas Koukkos for sharing his insights and perspectives. His passion for hospitality and commitment to memorable guest experiences continue to shape VILLABEAT’s impact within Greece’s luxury travel landscape.

To learn more, visit http://www.villabeat.com.