The Greek Island of Santorini is becoming an attraction not only for tourists from all over the world due to its unique nature and history but also for entrepreneurs and businessmen who successfully implement their concepts in the popular resort.
The island has become a favorite destination for couples, thanks to its incredible views and romantic sunsets. Weddings and private events are scheduled for the entire season, which begins in mid-spring. Hotels, restaurants, bars, SPA centers from local companies, and big international groups – everything that Santorini can offer is here to please guests from different countries.
We talked to Charlie Chahine, one of the most prominent entrepreneurs of Santorini and the owner of the five-star hotel Suites of the Gods, Demilmar Hotel, Demilmar Beach Club, and El Pescador Restaurant, about how to create a successful business on Santorini from scratch.
Why did you choose Santorini Island?
I am from Lebanon, so I am friendly with Greek. I was traveling a lot in my life and I found this island almost virgin when I came back in the 1990s. I liked the vibes here. I tried to ask investors to start a business, but they told me: are you crazy? How you can build something at a volcano? So I decided to make it alone and started my first restaurant “Charline” in 1991.
What was the most difficult thing for you?
That I was a foreigner. But I was saying that there is only one stranger on planet Earth – the devil. With the name of God and the right ideas, they accepted me. I was doing a lot of things for the community, for the city, for the churches, for the local football club.
Second is that the Island is far from the land. That time we had only 3 boats every week. 23 h to come here from Athens.
How has Santorini changed in the past few years?
Before in Santorini, we had one deal – not to bring big companies to the island, because we are small. Nowadays it has changed.
What do you personally want to offer to your guests?
I want my clients to feel at home. We are trying to keep the Greek traditions here. I didn’t come with a new style of food, I didn’t come with a new style of design. I am trying to keep the Santorini soul. People from London, Miami, and other cities travel to see something unique and different here.
What is Santorini for you?
Santorini for me is the breath of Earth. The concentration of oxygen here is one of the highest on Earth.
Which plans in your mind do you have for the future?
In my mind, I will live exactly 100 years with respect and love, and I want to use everything that God gives me and give it to others.
What advice can you give to young entrepreneurs?
I can give one base – just 3 words: respect, let yourself trust everyone, and let yourself forgive everyone.
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