http://lux.acquisition-intl.com/ 16 LUX - Hotel & Spa Awards 2016 Best Luxury Self Catering Villa 2016 – Lefkada Wi-Fi. Everything you’d expect at home or office is what you’ll have when you’re at The Gecko. The days where it might be stated as an attraction to be cut off up a Greek hillside are ancient history. Otherwise guests seek – and receive – the same experience as ever.” As The Gecko implements these new, subtle enhancements to their customer service, Simon also notes the expansion of local tourism, with the opening of new accommodation properties that bear the prospect of increasing competition for The Gecko. “There is definitely a rise in the number of high end villas, although sleepy Lefkada is never going to be as busy as its neighbours Corfu or even Kefalonia. The experience of the guest is far more than just the property itself, and for the combination of factors mentioned above, I am confident that our popularity will remain undiminished; the Gecko revels in being a special secret sought out by the discerning individual.” As well as the growth of tourist spots in the local area, there is also the question of wider strains on Greece’s tourism industry. In spite of the numerous challenges facing Greece, The Gecko and its staff benefit hugely from their location, tucked away in the Ionian region, and express inspiring hope for their future. “We are especially blessed, being utterly remote from the dramas unfolding in Athens or the Aegean. You would never know that world changing events are playing out elsewhere; a bustling and successful local economy prevails rather than the national economic torpor. Shops and restaurants are full of wonderful local fresh produce from sea and land, and hotels, bars and tavernas are enjoying a successful summer in 2016. “Greece has always been – and will remain – the most blissful and peaceful destination for a holiday. The safe combination of sunshine, scenery, simplicity and tranquillity is unbeatable in European or even global destinations. For our part, we will just concentrate on more of the same – happy guests returning with regularity, and building the market by telling their friends and associates.” Simon Lethem, the owner of the villa, is rightfully proud in emphasising the endearing qualities of the locale, and especially the features that have made The Gecko a favourite among clients. Honeymooners, retirees, hard-working professionals and academics alike have all found the Gecko and its surroundings to be a delightful escape. “Behind a deceptively traditional façade of the house lies a stunning, cool and airy space open from floor to rafters. There’s a galleried bedroom running the entire width of the house under gently spinning fans; there is full air-conditioning and heating throughout as well, of course. “Everything is stylish and uncluttered, and the house is equipped with everything you might need – from music, films and books to fill hours and days of relaxation to the fully equipped and stylish kitchen to take advantage of the wonderful local produce. “Outside lie the terraces and mature gardens with lots of places to lounge, sit or dine, and of course there’s the lovely pool – perfect for morning lengths or just cooling from the warmth of the sunshine. Everything overlooks terraces of olives sloping down to the sea. “Surrounded by Lefkada’s rugged coast and mountains, yet gentle and hospitable people, there’s a warmth and personal attention that makes any guest feel immediately at ease, and sense the love and care that has gone into the place.” Delving further into the Gecko experience, Simon’s local knowledge shines through. “There’s a great moment for guests as they open the gates the very first time, to be greeted by a spectacular view across bougainvillea, olives and vines to the pool, and beyond to the sea, all bathed in sunshine, so you’ll know you’re in the right place straight away. “As you start to explore you’ll find not only everything you were expecting, but lots of little things you weren’t – complimentary wine, beer, soft drinks, fresh local produce as a welcome in case you don’t fancy exploring the local tavernas straight away, not to mention a generous honesty bar. “There are a couple of bicycles for the more energetic, charcoal ready for the barbecue, local information and maps, an extensive library of books music and DVDs and even a couple of decent guitars in case you fancy treating the local wildlife to a song. These are just some of the many little things that add up to unbeatable attention to detail and a perfect home from home.” Alongside plentiful distractions, a stay at The Gecko is also a chance for privacy; as a self-catering luxury villa, there are no full time staff onsite. In fact, there are just two semi-regular members of the team. Simon, as owner, in addition to overseeing the whole operation and ensuring that the guest experience is second to none, also made the initial plans and architectural models for the house when it was very first built, and over the years has turned his hand to everything from plumbing to pool maintenance. Marianne, the house-keeper, is multi-lingual and multi-talented, able to fix most small problems straight away, but supported by a great team of local experts if anything more serious is required in the house or garden. As Simon explains, The Gecko places an emphasis upon word of mouth in expanding its client base. Through the care and attention that is provided to every customer, 2016 has seen a steady flow of clients, over 50 per cent of whom are returning guests; “others are their friends and relatives, coming to us through personal recommendation. The property is only ever let exclusively to a single party, so comfort and privacy is assured. There is ample space for two couples to share the pool and terraces, with the beautifully appointed Deck Suite tucked away offering a totally independent second guest bedroom and facilities, also with stunning sunset and sea views.” With the legendary Greek clime complimented by the stylish, relaxed façades of the villa, Simon revels in his property’s undiminished splendour, and comments on the incremental change in customer experience. “The guest experience has really only changed very subtly, with the only significant new imperative being a great internet connection and Nestling in the north of the Greek island of Lefkada, The Gecko is a tranquil and stylish villa hideaway with wonderful sunset views over the Ionian Sea. Guests are able to enjoy stylish simplicity coupled with wonderful comfort and generosity. HO160008 Company: The Gecko Email:
[email protected] Phone: +44 7725 617734 Web Address: www.thegecko.eu Address: The Gecko, Tsoukalades, Lefkada, Greece Best Luxury Self Catering Villa 2016 – Lefkada Company: The Gecko Email:
[email protected] Phone: +44 7725 617734 Web Address: www.thegecko.eu Address: The Gecko, Tsoukalades, Lefkada, Greece