Maria Gkonta, COO & Co-Owner of ThinkVilla, oversees the growth and operational excellence of the company, embodying its vision to offer exceptional luxury holidays in Greece's finest villas.

Her dedication to providing unparalleled experiences is inspired by a profound appreciation for Greece's rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty.

Maria's journey in hospitality began with her education at the Glion Institute of Higher Education and the Ecole hôtelière de Lausanne, specialising in Hospitality Management and Creating & Developing Hotel Concepts. She honed her skills through prestigious roles in luxury hotels worldwide, including as F&B Manager at Leading Hotels of the World and at the Kempinski Mall of the Emirates & Kempinski Emirates Palace in Dubai.

Her tenure as "Head of Concept Implementation" at TUI Group involved successfully launching more than 300 hotels globally over a decade.

Returning to Greece in 2019, Maria partnered with Valia Kokkinou, CEO & Founder of ThinkVilla, driven by their shared passion for the tourism industry.

Together, they have elevated ThinkVilla into a premier hospitality brand, managing over 350 properties with an impressive 90% occupancy rate. Recognised as Greece's #1 Luxury Villa Rental Agency since 2022, ThinkVilla has also been distinguished as a valued partner of Marriott International in Homes&Villas by Marriott Bonvoy since 2019.

Maria's love for travel and exploration of culinary delights enriches ThinkVilla's offerings, with her favourite culinary destinations including Crete, Zakynthos, and Santorini.

Her personal experiences ensure that guests not only enjoy luxurious accommodations but also discover authentic flavours and cultural treasures throughout Greece. Maria's leadership is defined by her unwavering commitment to excellence and personalised service, tailored to meet the unique preferences of each guest.

She continues to innovate within the luxury villa sector, ensuring every stay with ThinkVilla is both luxurious and memorable, reflecting her deep-rooted passion for Greece and its diverse landscapes.

Short statement about the participation

Mastering the Art of Luxury Villas in Greece: Conceptualising and Navigating Strategies for Success Over the Next Decade