menu
close
search
ABTA IATA ATOL
close
close
Request Quote
clear
Home | Elegant Traveller | An Exclusive Interview with Efstathios Savvidis

Elegant Traveller

An Exclusive Interview with Efstathios Savvidis

schedule7 Minute Read

07-May-2025 Laura Holt

An Exclusive Interview with Efstathios Savvidis

We talk to the General Manager of Corfu Imperial as Grecotel turns 50...

Grecotel began its legacy of luxury five decades ago, setting off on a tale of authentic excellence. In that time, they have welcomed countless guests into a Grecian experience of signature concepts and award-winning hospitality.
One of these awards was Elegant Resorts' own Annual Supplier Awards. In 2024, Efstathios Savvidis, as General Manager of Corfu Imperial - A Grecotel Resort to Live, won our coveted Best General Manager Award, voted for by the wider Elegant Resorts team.
This recognition aptly coincides with 2025 being Grecotel's golden year. To celebrate both achievements, we spoke to Efstathios to get his personal thoughts on how Grecotel continues to enchant, and what the future holds.

Congratulations on your well-deserved Best General Manager award. How does this recognition reflect the ethos and dedication to excellence that you and your team embody at Corfu Imperial?

ES

Thank you very much for the kind recognition. This award is truly a reflection of the collective spirit, hard work, and unwavering dedication of the entire team at Corfu Imperial. At Grecotel, we are more than colleagues-we are a family. This sense of unity and shared purpose translates into how we host our guests: with heartfelt care, warmth, and professionalism. Our goal is always to create a home away from home for each guest, and this award reaffirms that we are on the right path.

With such a legacy, how has Grecotel's relationship with the local communities and culture evolved over the past 50 years, and how does this contribute to the overall guest experience?

ES

Grecotel's roots are deeply intertwined with the local communities and cultural heritage of the 15 destinations of our properties. Over the past five decades, we have grown together, supporting local producers, artisans, and families while showcasing authentic hospitality and genuine Greek traditions to our guests. This synergy enriches the guest experience, allowing them to engage with the true essence of the destination. Whether it's through locally sourced cuisine, cultural experiences, community-led excursions, or customs and rituals, we ensure that each stay inspires connections to both our guests and our community.

What do you believe are the core pillars that have consistently defined the "Grecotel experience" and contributed to this enduring legacy of luxury?

ES

First, heartwarming Greek hospitality. It's about making guests feel valued, understood and inspired. It's about personal, heartfelt communications and gestures. Second, exceptional service blended with immersive cultural experiences. And third, and perhaps most importantly, our people. They are the heart of our success. As our Managing Director, Mrs. Mari Daskalantonaki, beautifully says, "Hospitality from our people and to our people." This philosophy drives us to not only invest in our teams but to support and empower them, because their passion and dedication are what truly elevate the guest experience.

How does Corfu Imperial - A Grecotel Resort to Live distinguish itself within the portfolio whilst maintaining these values?

ES

Corfu Imperial holds a special place within the Grecotel portfolio. Nestled on its own private peninsula with unparalleled views, it offers both grandeur and seclusion. What truly distinguishes us, however, is our distinctive identity and an unmatched sense of place. We draw heavily on the island's Venetian and aristocratic heritage, infusing this character into everything from design to service. Yet, we never lose sight of the Grecotel core-genuine hospitality, a commitment to excellence, and a strong connection to Greek traditions.

What are some of the unique and perhaps lesser-known aspects of Corfu Imperial that you are passionate about sharing with guests?

ES

Corfu Imperial is an enchanting resort. Enticing corners, emerald gardens, breathtaking spots where you feel surrounded 360 degrees by the sea, picturesque promenades, and dramatic rocks. Hidden private beaches, or ancient Greek statues unexpectedly appearing in quiet paths. The shimmering of sunrise over the Ionian Sea, or the warm glow of sunset. In the evenings, as you pass by our Trattoria, the air is filled with the smell of Italian pizza and fresh basilico, the sound of Italian melodies blended with laughter and the joyful voices of children.

Are there any timeless elements of Greek hospitality that you believe will always be central to the Grecotel experience, regardless of future trends?

Absolutely! Philoxenia, the ancient Greek concept of hospitality, is at the heart of everything we do. It is about generosity of spirit, treating strangers as honoured guests, and offering genuine warmth. No matter how trends shift, at Grecotel, we are guardians of the authentic Greek ethos that remains timeless and irreplaceable. It informs not only how we interact with our guests but also how we support and uplift each other as a team.

Is there anything new for 2025 that guests can look forward to during this landmark year?

ES

2025 marks a very special milestone for us-Grecotel's 50th anniversary, as the leading hospitality brand in Greece, showcasing the best of our country! We are heading towards an exciting future, with innovative concepts, extensive renovations and introducing new services and amenities. In Corfu Imperial, we are launching a brand-new room collection, a redesigned lobby, and new experiences for families and couples.

How does the rich history and legacy of Grecotel inform your approach and vision for the future of Corfu Imperial?

ES

At Corfu Imperial and Grecotel, we honour our past by staying true to the values that brought us here, while always striving to raise the bar. Looking forward, we aim to enhance the guest experience through thoughtful design, sustainable practices, and deeper personalisation, ensuring that our legacy evolves.

For further travel inspiration, our luxury online travel blog is filled with first-hand travel tales, expert destination guides and more. To book your luxury holiday beyond expectations, talk to our team.
Laura  Holt

Laura Holt

Editorial & Campaign Manager

Whether it's a weekend away or an exciting international adventure, I'm always eager for my next trip. I've been lucky to travel in abundance, and each time I come home, I bring back stories that I love to share.

Feeling Inspired?

To book your next luxury holiday, please call our Luxury Travel Specialists on 01244 897 578