Panagiotis & Thanasis
Kythnos emerged unexpectedly on my travel radar, becoming a beautiful chapter in my five week excursion island-hopping. Initially overlooked, the island's allure unfolded as I delved into its unique offerings. Three major towns, renowned thermal springs, and the enchanting Kolona Beach, a strip of sand dividing two parts of the ocean, piqued my interest. While I initially thought five days might be too long for this small island, it turned out to be a serendipitous blessing, especially since work occupied a significant portion of my stay.
What made this experience truly exceptional was the warmth and proactive nature of Panagiotis, my host. His regular communication and genuine interest set the tone for an unforgettable stay. Despite him being unable to host me personally, his father, Thanasis, took over with a heartwarming grace that transcended language barriers.
Panagiotis, understanding my interest in learning Greek, ensured seamless communication with his father. The morning I arrived, Thanasis, a gentle-hearted man in his late 60s or early 70s, greeted me at the port. The 500m drive to his home became an opportunity for cultural exchange, as he shared insights about the town, his profession as a mechanical engineer, and his wife's artistry, evident in the apartment where I would stay.
The coordination between father and son was impeccable. They guided me on where to rent a car, what to explore, and where to savor the best local cuisine. What set this experience apart was the arrangement of their home. Crossing Thanasis' deck to my apartment became a daily ritual, providing us with moments of connection that became the highlight of my day.
One evening, after exploring Kythnos I came home to Thannasis sitting on his deck. I started to explain what I did that day to which he said, “one minute,” ένα λεπτό (pronounced éna leptó) and ran into the house and returned with multiple maps and began to open one up on his outside table. It was a map of the island. Thanasis passionately pointing out driving routes and must-visit beaches and where I should and should not drive. His genuine enthusiasm to enhance my experience was palpable. Mind you it is quite windy, so I grabbed my phones to secure the map from flying off the table. At the end of the conversation, he offers me one of the maps to which I respond in Greek, I have two phones for navigation. I later realized that he probably doesn’t know anyone to have two phones. Why would he? The simplicity and charm of his world resonated with me.
Kythnos, with its minimal tourist presence, offered an authentic Greek experience. Conversing with locals in Greek, navigating without English menus, and immersing myself in the genuine Greek lifestyle became the essence of my stay. Kythnos, you happened for a reason, and I'm grateful for the unexpected warmth and authenticity you brought to my journey.
Below are some pictures from my incredible stay.
