It seems quite unbelievable to think that only a week ago, there we all were sitting having lunch at Pounda Paou, devouring Loula’s freshly cook whitebait, with a Greek salad, tzatziki, gazing out to the magnificent gulf where only days before dolphins were spotted in the bay!

I had the pleasure of escorting ten travel agents from around the UK to the fabulous islands of Skiathos, Skopelos and Alonissos then onto the magical Pelion.

Our first night was spent at the recently refurbished Skiathos Princess Hotel. The hotel is offered on a half board basis and both meals (Dinner and Breakfast) were good quality and offered a good choice of cuisine. The island itself was a real delight, we took a trip to see Koukounaries beach (Skiathos has over 68 sandy beaches) and were thrilled when a monk seal decided to grace us with its presence. Later that day onto Skopelos, the agents experienced staying at the Skopelos Village Hotel, Faros Town House and Villa Rania. Two nights in Skopelos, gave us a real chance to sample island delights and visiting the properties all over the island gives a good insight to her natural beauty.

An early start was required for our whirlwind trip to Alonissos, where our representative Jan kindly showed us around this lesser known but delightful Greek island. Properties offered are of a high standard and diverse choice, a great choice for a peaceful, relaxing break.

Later on that afternoon, we took the fast ferry to Volos an interesting city, modern, trendy and vibrant. Not far from the city we get our first good glimpse of Mount Pelion with the tiny villages dotted around this vast mountain. We all stayed at the Pounda Paou Hotel, in Paou owned by Loula and Maria her daughter. (Of course not forgetting Harry) A property of only 12-rooms each being unique in size, location and views. Upon arrival, we were greeted by the infamous “Harry” the German shepherd who is Loula’s pride and joy and mine! After settling in, we had supper together, which is a buffet style self-service – All lovingly homemade cooking by Loula and it was exquisite!

Luckily, the weather was good enough for swimming a couple of days during our stay. As well as visiting properties we had a delicious lunch at Damouchari, where the finale of “MammaMia The Movie” was filmed. Served by the soon to be famous Apostolis (he played apart in the finale and enjoyed the company of Meryl Streep whilst she was staying at the Damouchari Hotel). One morning at breakfast we were delighted by the presence of a family of dolphins who frequent the Gulf – I am sure when I tell everyone the story of dolphins in the gulf they all think it’s just a selling point – I am glad they paid us a visit and frequent visitors to this area for all those who doubted me! Four days at Pounda Paou, went all too quickly. A couple of agents enjoyed the boats and stunning views of the Pelion coastline from the sea and then last supper for all of us, which consisted of a barbeque, salads and fantastic dessert. Alas, seven days had passed and the trip was nearing an end much to my disappointment.

I think overall we all the agents who came along were treated to a good balance of what I call “real Greece”, beautiful scenery, fabulous beaches, unique areas, wildlife, including birds of prey! Delicious diverse cuisine, perfect for travellers looking to experience the best of Greece tranquil places with stunning views.

It was a pleasure to meet you all and to get to know you but most of all to show off the country I love and adore so much its like my second home!

I will be happy to post comments from any of the agents who travelled with me, so send to me asap!

Once again, many thanks to all who took part and enjoy the Aegean Island Holidays hospitality your clients can look forward to!

Bernadette