INTERVIEW OF THE REGIO OF WESTERN GREECE Mr. NECTARION PHARMACY

The interconnection of the destinations of Western Greece and the development of integrated tourist experiences, along with the acceleration of the implementation of infrastructure projects, are the objectives of the new Regional Governor, Mr. Nektarios Farmakis. Moreover, it invites visitors, this winter, to experience the area where ancient Greek light met the light of modern Hellenism.

What are the objectives of the development plan for the next four years, as far as tourism is concerned?

Western Greece, while it is a region that can offer many multi-level travel experiences, is nevertheless like a shell still waiting to be opened to find the pearl. The causes are many and mainly concern deficits of many years, even at the level of basic infrastructure, such as roads. And it is no coincidence that in recent years, with the operation of Olympia and the Ionian Road, there has been an increase in the number of visitors to the area. So a first objective is to finally change the pace of implementation of the necessary infrastructure. Also, another goal is the interconnection of the destinations of Western Greece, both with each other and with other, neighbouring destinations, as well as the development of integrated tourist experiences during the summer. And all of this, we need to “tie them together” through the synergies that can be created. Furthermore, we believe that Western Greece should join modern tourism networks, but also develop its own, autonomous network of promotion and provision of information and services, as today the vast majority of tourists choose destinations through the Internet. Finally, another very important objective is to give Western Greece a place that will be proposed to Greek and foreign tour operators, as our view is that sustainable tourism development can no longer be one-dimensional. In other words, nowadays the visitor – and especially the one who has the ability or the willingness to invest money in a good travel experience – is not only looking for a good sightseeing tour or just relaxation, but is looking for much more. Western Greece can see and enjoy a lot, both in winter, a new and much more extroverted identity, creating a brand that can be “heard” around the world, but also to structure a new promotion and marketing policy.

How you think you can attract more Greeks travellers to your region?

In the same way that every Greek would like to visit the Acropolis of Athens or the tombs of Vergina, he would probably like to visit the birthplace of Olympism, Ancient Olympia. In the same way, he would probably like to visit the places that still “whisper” the history of modern Hellenism. Kalavryta, where the spark of the Revolution of 1821 was lit, Messolonghi of the Free Besieged and Aegio of the famous Vostitsa Assembly. After all, from the very first moment we talked about the “land of the Flame”, that is, the area where the ancient Greek light met the light of modern Hellenism. And also: Patras is the capital of Greek Halloween and a youthful city that is worth experiencing, day and night. But it is also the city of Saint Andrew, another “universal” figure of Christianity, who attracts thousands of pilgrims every year and can certainly attract even more. Also, a visit to Ano Chora of Nafpaktia and the villages of Thermos with a view of Lake Trichonida or the ascent to the mythical waters of Stygos in Helmos or a visit to the amazing forest of Fologis in Ilia or the descent of Evinos or Ladon with canoe-kayak, are unique experiences that should be lived by everyone. All these destinations, as well as many others that I could list, show the very rich potential of Western Greece, which we must promote with dynamism and confidence, inviting all our compatriots to join us.

Tell us five reasons for Greek travellers to visit your region this winter.

We invite them to visit Ancient Olympia and the Epicurean Apollo to see the place that has kept the torch of rivalry and brotherhood lit for thousands of years. And then, to reach Diakopto and with the cog to “climb” to Kalavryta to meet the banner of the revolution of the ’21 and the place of martyrdom on the hill of Kapi, while at the same time they will spend unique moments of relaxation and joy at the ski resort. Then, they can descend to Patras and after experiencing the atmosphere of a cosmopolitan region, but also worship at the tomb and the cross of St. Andrew, they can cross to the opposite bank to find themselves in the picturesque port of Nafpaktos and the Garden of Heroes in Messolonghi, where the traces of love for freedom and the homeland are still alive. And to complete their tour, arriving in Agrinio, a modern and lively city, but also its “jewel”, the Trichonida, climbing up to Thermo and the birthplace of Patrokosmas or the mountainous Nafpaktia of the most pristine and dreamy nature they have ever seen. In short, you don’t need many reasons to be close to us. As long as you want to experience the “land of flame”! Welcome to come