PHOTO: © GREEK NATIONAL TOURISM ORGANIZATION
THE BASICS
Name: Andreas N. Fiorentinos
Title: Secretary General
Company, city: Greek National Tourism Organization, Ministry of Tourism; Athens, Greece
Childhood ambition
I always knew I wanted to be a hotelier, even when my father discouraged me. Continuing the hospitality tradition my grandfather began was a source of pride and direction throughout my life.
Fun fact
I’m originally from Clearwater, Florida, and I attended Eckerd College.
Where would you go tomorrow?
I would travel to Ecuador to see the Galápagos Islands and reconnect with a friend in Quito. I have long dreamed of experiencing the islands and their unique wildlife.
A LITTLE BIT MORE
Two nonessential items on a deserted island
I might take a spear gun and a lighter — though they sound essential. Perhaps I would treat them as comforts that make the experience more interesting rather than strictly necessary.
Career influence
My grandfather, the first hotelier in my family from Mykonos, inspired my career despite never meeting him. His first hotel opened in 1924 and his perseverance and work ethic during difficult times became the family stories that shaped my path.
Favorite music
I loved Terence Trent D’Arby when I was younger and he remains a favorite.
Time travel choice
I would travel back to the past. I lost my first son to cancer and would treasure the chance to see him again.
THE BUSINESS
Leadership style
My leadership is personal and straightforward. I engage with the people I work with beyond professional tasks, taking an interest in their stories and lives. I value openness and honesty — what you see is what you get.
Predictions for travel
I expect travel to continue expanding while slow tourism gains more traction. Travelers increasingly seek meaningful cultural experiences, and Greece is well positioned as an authentic destination for slow tourism. This trend is likely to endure.
Proudest professional achievement
As a third-generation hotelier from Mykonos, being appointed to this role with the Greek National Tourism Organization is an immense honor and the culmination of a family legacy.
Current project
I am focused on balancing infrastructure development while strengthening Greece’s brand as an essential tourism destination, ensuring the country can responsibly welcome growing numbers of visitors.
AS A TRAVELER
Customer service lesson
Hospitality is fundamentally about serving guests. While opinions vary, I believe in the principle that the customer’s perspective matters greatly — that mindset keeps service standards high.
First remembered vacation
Because our family ran a hotel and had many responsibilities in season, we rarely traveled in winter. I don’t recall taking a proper vacation until later in life when I was on my own.
Travel pet peeves
I don’t really have any travel pet peeves.
Favorite travel experience
I enjoy off-roading, and Epirus stands out as a favorite destination. It offers intriguing landscapes, remote stone villages and authentic cuisine. My wife and I love the simple pleasures there: relaxing by a fireplace, sharing spanakopita and a glass of wine, and dancing together in an intimate, genuine setting.