About
ThinkVilla

Valia Kokkinou is the CEO and Founder of ThinkVilla, the premier luxury villa rental agency in Greece. With an unwavering passion for hospitality and a visionary spirit, Valia established ThinkVilla in 2009. Starting with a modest collection of 10 villas, her mission has always been to surpass guest expectations and deliver unparalleled experiences in her beloved homeland of Greece.Raised in Crete, Valia developed a profound appreciation for the island’s beauty and culture, shaping her career path. She pursued her passion by studying Hospitality Management at Glion Institute of Higher Education and gained invaluable expertise while working with The Leading Hotels of the World, refining her skills in luxury hospitality.Under Valia’s guidance, ThinkVilla has experienced remarkable growth, now managing 350 exquisite villas across Greece by 2024. Her leadership and visionary outlook have been instrumental in establishing ThinkVilla as the leading luxury villa rental agency in Greece, renowned for its exceptional service and curated villa experiences. Valia’s dedication to providing personalised, high-end hospitality has made ThinkVilla the preferred choice for discerning travellers seeking luxury accommodations and unforgettable stays.Valia leads a dedicated team of 20 professionals who share her passion for creating exceptional holiday experiences in Greece. Together, they meticulously plan and execute every aspect of a guest’s stay, embodying Valia’s commitment to excellence and unwavering hospitality standards.Beyond her professional achievements, Valia enjoys exploring Crete’s stunning beaches with her family and discovering new destinations across Greece to expand ThinkVilla’s portfolio. One such hidden gem she treasures is the charming island of Tinos, known for its authenticity and natural beauty. Valia’s personal love for travel and exploration continues to inspire her work, ensuring that ThinkVilla consistently delivers memorable experiences that exceed guests’ expectations.

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.

Hailing from the picturesque island of Crete, Giorgos has been a vital member of the ThinkVilla team, where he combines his passion for IT and programming with his extensive expertise in advertising and marketing. With a degree in Advertising and Marketing from the University of Crete, Giorgos has seamlessly transitioned into his true passion—overseeing the tools, systems, and automations that ensure our office operates smoothly and efficiently. His commitment to maintaining our digital presence is unwavering, making it easier for guests to explore and enjoy the exceptional experiences our beautiful destinations offer.In his leisure time, Giorgos immerses himself in the world of technology by creating websites. Additionally, he manages a charming cottage in a traditional village in Rethymno, blending his technical skills with hospitality. This unique combination allows him to connect with people from around the world and share the beauty of Crete. Giorgos also enjoys indulging in movies, music, good food, watching sports, and traveling—activities that enrich his understanding of diverse cultures and enhance his creative outlook.Giorgos’s dedication to enhancing our guests’ experiences is evident in both his professional and personal endeavours. Managing a small cottage in a traditional village in Rethymno, he embraces the charm and culture of local communities, ensuring that each destination we offer is a gateway to Greece’s rich heritage and natural beauty. Skiathos, with its delicious food, tsipoura, tranquil pristine beaches, and incredible serenity, is Giorgos’s earthly paradise. His love for this destination reflects his dedication to sharing the best of Greece with our guests, ensuring they have unforgettable and enriching experiences.

Born in the impeccable island of Crete, Despina Mayiafa has been a cornerstone of ThinkVilla since 2017. With a background in Greek Literature from the University of Crete (UOC), Despina seamlessly blends her passion for storytelling with her professional expertise in the Villa industry. As the Head of Operations at ThinkVilla, she is an expert curator, renowned for her extensive knowledge and forward-thinking approach. Despina plays a crucial role in ensuring that her colleagues receive the best advice and training, always staying one step ahead in the ever-evolving landscape of vacation rentals.Despina is also the creative force behind the vivid and captivating descriptions of ThinkVilla’s properties, bringing each Villa’s unique charm to life for prospective guests. Her leadership and passion for excellence have made her an invaluable asset to the company, where she is respected for her ability to inspire and mentor new team members.Outside of her professional life, Despina is an avid reader and nature lover. She enjoys scenic drives, particularly in the summer, her favourite season and her creative spirit shines through in her love for writing. She finds peace and inspiration in the unspoilt beaches of South Crete, where the clear blue waters offer a perfect retreat to revitalise the body and soul & loves traveling—activities that enrich her understanding of diverse cultures and enhance her creative outlook.ThinkVilla’s ethos centres on creating connections—between people, nature, and impeccable design—through extraordinary properties that lift the spirits and stir the soul. Despina embodies this philosophy, contributing to ThinkVilla’s mission to provide the ultimate holiday villa rental experience for travellers seeking life’s true luxuries. Her favourite destination remains Crete, the island of her birth, which she believes has so much to offer, especially the unspoilt southern beaches that are a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation, for endless hours of incredible serenity.

Nikos has been an integral part of the ThinkVilla team since 2021, serving as the Head of Revenue & Sales. With a background in Marketing & Communication from the Athens University of Economics and Business, has a profound understanding of market dynamics and revenue optimisation and has played a pivotal role in maximising the profitability of our villa portfolio. His strategic insights and innovative approaches have significantly contributed to ThinkVilla’s sustained growth and success in the competitive vacation rental industry.Nikos’s expertise in yield management ensures that our villas achieve optimal occupancy rates while delivering exceptional value to our guests. His ability to analyse market trends and adjust pricing strategies accordingly has made him an indispensable asset of our company.In his free time, Nikos enjoys staying active by playing football and exercising regularly. His love for the summer season is evident in his frequent visits to the stunning beaches of southern Crete, where he finds relaxation and rejuvenation. This summer, Nikos is particularly excited to explore Zakynthos, a destination known for its unique charm and natural beauty.

Olga, our Senior Operations Manager, joined ThinkVilla in 2023 and swiftly became an essential part of our team. Her dynamic approach and adventurous spirit make her a perfect fit for our challenging environment. Recognized as a dedicated team player, Olga thrives in ThinkVilla’s collaborative atmosphere, where teamwork isn’t just valued but celebrated. Within ThinkVilla’s vibrant tapestry, Olga’s enthusiasm and collaborative spirit contribute to crafting memorable guest experiences, showcasing her commitment to excellence and passion for adventure. Beyond work, Olga’s love for sports shines brightly. Whether she’s cheering from the sidelines or actively participating, sports play a significant role in her life. She eagerly looks forward to ThinkVilla’s biweekly volleyball games, relishing the friendly competition and camaraderie they bring.In her downtime, Olga enjoys watching sports and indulging in a refreshing beer with friends—a pastime that brings her joy. With a thirst for exploration, Olga has explored 16 countries to date, always seeking new adventures and cultural experiences which she cherishes sharing with loved ones. Looking ahead, Olga is excited about visiting Zakynthos and Corfu, captivated by their allure and eager to explore their scenic landscapes and cultural treasures firsthand

Stelios Papadakis, originally from the beautiful island of Crete, has woven together his academic background in Economics with a deep passion for hospitality—a combination that has defined his professional journey. His career began two years ago at ThinkVilla, where he quickly rose to a senior position as the senior property manager, focusing on partner relations and enhancing property online presence. This role is not just a job for Stelios but a source of immense pride, allowing him to blend his economic insights with the warm, embracing spirit of Greek hospitality.Working alongside a dedicated team at ThinkVilla, Stelios finds constant inspiration and fulfilment in supporting his colleagues. His affection for southern Crete, with its stunning landscapes and azure waters, reflects his deep connection to the region. In his leisure time, Stelios stays active through various sports and enjoys sharing moments of Cretan cuisine with loved ones.Stelios’s adventurous spirit extends beyond Crete, as he has explored numerous European countries and dreams of witnessing the Northern Lights in Iceland. These experiences fuel his passion for cultural exploration and his commitment to excellence in hospitality.At ThinkVilla, Stelios embodies dedication, leadership, and a profound appreciation for the art of hospitality. His journey continues to evolve, driven by a genuine love for discovering new horizons and enriching the guest experience.

Nikki, born in the Netherlands, is a dedicated Quality Assurance Manager at ThinkVilla, where she consistently exceeds guest expectations. Her journey with ThinkVilla began in 2018, a move she considers one of her best decisions ever. Nikki holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Tourism Management, specializing in Tourism Destination Management and Hospitality, complemented by a minor in Hospitality Management, earned in 2012.Initially drawn to Greece by its sunny allure, Nikki’s career path took her through various enriching experiences. She spent three years teaching Dutch and culture to Greek children, fostering her passion for both education and cultural exchange. Despite a brief return to the Netherlands for a specialization in holiday packages to Greece, Nikki’s heart remained in Greece, where she found her true calling in hospitality.At ThinkVilla, Nikki thrives in a service-oriented role, ensuring impeccable quality across all aspects of guest experiences. She meticulously oversees ThinkVilla’s processes to guarantee a seamless journey for every guest from their initial inquiry to their departure. Her dedication has contributed to the expansion of ThinkVilla’s portfolio, offering luxury escapes in diverse and stunning destinations.Together with her Dutch origins, Nikki embraces Greece as her home, particularly cherishing island life in Crete while eagerly anticipating visits to other breathtaking destinations such as Zakynthos, Corfu, Santorini, Tinos, and Skiathos. Her passion for tourism and hospitality continues to drive her commitment to creating unforgettable memories for every ThinkVilla guest.

Marianna Vasiliadi has been a cornerstone of ThinkVilla since 2014, currently on maternity leave. Born in Athens, Marianna brings a profound understanding of the company’s history and a steadfast commitment to service excellence. Over her years with us, she has played a pivotal role in the growth of ThinkVilla, establishing herself as one of our most experienced team members.In her capacity as Reservations Manager, Marianna is renowned for her meticulous attention to detail and unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction, setting a high standard within the company. She is valued for her reliability, exceptional organisational skills, and ability to nurture strong client relationships. Marianna Vasiliadi’s passion for hospitality and her expertise in reservations management have been instrumental in upholding ThinkVilla’s reputation as a leader in luxury vacation rentals. She loves to travel and is particularly looking forward to exploring Paros, our newly added destination at ThinkVilla. While we keenly feel her temporary absence, her legacy of professionalism and service excellence continues to inspire her colleagues & we are looking forward to welcoming her back with her newly added family member.

Elia Klapsinou joined ThinkVilla in 2022 and hails from the picturesque island of Crete, Greece. With a deep-rooted passion for hospitality, Elia currently serves as a Customer Care Executive at ThinkVilla. Her role allows her to indulge her love for assisting guests throughout their holiday experience, from booking to departure. Elia takes pride in not only ensuring smooth and enjoyable stays but also in sharing insider tips on the hidden gems that ThinkVilla destinations are known for. She loves traveling and has a particular fondness for Rhodes and Skiathos, apart from Crete, which she proudly calls home. Elia believes that each destination has its unique charm and considers exploring new places a must for everyone’s travel bucket list.Outside of work and travel, Elia finds joy in the arts, particularly theatre. She actively participates in local theatre groups in the Rethymno region, where she annually performs various roles. This involvement reflects her vibrant passion for cultural expression and community engagement.

Nikos, a Guest Journey Specialist at ThinkVilla, oversees daily communications with guests eager to explore with us. His journey into hospitality began early, driven by a natural curiosity and a passion for immersing himself in diverse cultures. Just as in his beloved video games, Nikos thrives on real-life exploration.As one of the newest additions to the ThinkVilla team, joined us January 2024, Nikos delights in uncovering Greece’s hidden treasures. After thoroughly exploring Crete, his attention now turns to the enchanting Santorini. The island’s rich prehistory, woven into every alleyway, fascinates him, and he savours every opportunity to indulge in local delicacies.Nikos’s role at ThinkVilla seamlessly merges his love for exploration with his commitment to hospitality, ensuring guests experience the finest Greece has to offer, from its picturesque islands to its cultural delights. His dedication to the guest journey role is all about surpassing our ThinkVilla guests’ expectations by offering them an experience beyond what they had envisioned.

Pepi Balafouti our Guest Journey Specialist, graduated from the University of Thessaly in Volos with a degree in Economics. With a background in startups, she contributed as an editor for the tourism section of Siatista’s local newspaper in Northern Greece and volunteered on projects for the Athens Stock Exchange during her university years. She has a passion for taking initiative, particularly in event planning and managing social media campaigns.At ThinkVilla Stays, Pepi has found a fulfilling career that blends bespoke style and luxury. She views hospitality management as a means to connect with people and cultures globally, similar to her experiences in organising events and promoting agency-wide initiatives.Outside of work, Pepi enjoys leisurely walks by the sea and spending time with friends. She has a deep appreciation for opera, with Andrea Bocelli being a favourite, and literature, especially the works of Alki Zei. Her interests encompass poetry, fairytales, and fashion, including trends in clothing and home decor. An avid traveler, Pepi is fascinated by the history of the places she visits. Pepi deeply appreciates ThinkVilla’s commitment to fostering strong relationships, fulfilling people’s desires, and its dedication to environmental sustainability and charitable initiatives across all its destinations.Her greatest dream is to visit Positano in Italy, a childhood aspiration, and to explore the historical Knossos Palace in Crete, which captivated her since elementary school. She also looks forward to experiencing the fairytale castles of Rhodes and the Achilleion Palace of Princess Sissi in Corfu.

Eleftheria Zafeirati, a Guest Journey Specialist at ThinkVilla, brings a vibrant spirit to her role, which she has passionately embraced since 2023. Originally from Athens, she has discovered a second home in Rethymno, Crete, where she delights in the harmonious blend of pristine beaches and majestic snowy mountains.Her tenure at ThinkVilla has been a profound journey of both professional growth and personal discovery. Each day enriches her with new experiences and insights, deepening her passion for hospitality and exploration. Eleftheria’s appreciation for Greece’s natural beauty has flourished during her time with the company, as she uncovers hidden gems and scenic locales previously unknown to her.Beyond her professional endeavours, Eleftheria is an avid enthusiast of outdoor adventures and cultural immersion. Her dedication to delivering exceptional guest service is rooted in her profound gratitude for living in such a breathtaking country. Embracing the vibrant culture of ThinkVilla, Eleftheria eagerly anticipates further exploration of Greece’s treasures. She particularly looks forward to discovering the charms of Corfu and Skiathos, envisioning each visit as an opportunity to deepen her connection with Greece’s diverse landscapes and rich heritage.

Zac Tzoutzidis joined ThinkVilla in late February 2024 as a guest journey specialist, bringing with him a diverse set of interests and experiences. In his leisure time, he indulges in music, dance, and the intricate strategies of chess, while also enjoying countryside adventures on his motorbike, savouring the natural beauty and tranquility.Originally from Naoussa, Zac has cultivated a deep appreciation for his Cretan heritage, embracing the island’s vibrant culture, delectable cuisine, and idyllic weather. His academic journey includes a degree in Finance and a postgraduate diploma in Tourism Administration from Lucerne, Switzerland. With prior experience in reservations at luxury hotels across Greece, Zac brings valuable expertise to the ThinkVilla team. Motivated by his extensive background and genuine love for Crete, Zac is dedicated to enhancing the guest experience at ThinkVilla, ensuring that every visitor discovers Greece’s distinctive charms and treasures.

Mari Kallitsounaki is a valued addition to the ThinkVilla team, bringing her expertise as a Guest Journey Specialist. Her role is a source of great enthusiasm as she actively contributes to the company’s success, supported by her exceptional team and shared commitment to exceeding guest expectations.Beyond her professional endeavours, Mari channels her energy into her passions. She finds profound joy in dancing, whether in a studio or the comfort of her own space. Keeping up with the latest online trends also keeps her engaged, alongside cherishing moments with her beloved Pomeranian, Nala. Family holds a special place in Mari’s heart, and she treasures every opportunity to create enduring memories with her loved ones. While Mari has explored much of Crete and is captivated by its beauty, her wanderlust is currently drawn to Zakynthos. This dream destination is renowned for its stunning landscapes and tranquil beaches. Mari envisions herself surrounded by crystal-clear waters and breathtaking views, eagerly anticipating a future visit to unwind and immerse herself in the island’s natural splendour.

Andreas brings his passion for delivering bespoke services to guests as a Guest Journey Specialist at Think Villa, ensuring unforgettable experiences across Greece. Having joined the team approximately two months ago, Andreas is dedicated to providing every guest with the pinnacle of hospitality through Think Villa.Outside of his professional role, Andreas finds rejuvenation in various activities such as long walks, exercising, and playing basketball. However, his favorite pastime is traveling the world, constantly seeking new destinations to explore and adding to his travel checklist.Born and raised in Crete, Andreas has a deep connection to the island and has explored many of its remarkable places where Think Villa offers premier accommodations. Despite his familiarity with Crete, Andreas harbors a strong desire to visit other captivating Greek destinations, including Zakynthos, known for its blue Ionian sea and hidden gems featured in Think Villa’s portfolio. Andreas is also drawn to the historical allure of Rhodes, the lush forests of Skiathos, and the unique charm of Santorini, famed for its magnificent views of the Caldera.

Aggeliki Papadosifaki has been an integral part of the ThinkVilla team since March 2023, serving as the Accounting Manager. With a robust background in finance and accounting, Aggeliki has swiftly established herself as an expert in her field. Her meticulous attention to detail and steadfast commitment to accuracy have been pivotal in ensuring the seamless and efficient financial operations of our company.Aggeliki’s role is pivotal to ThinkVilla’s success, encompassing responsibilities from managing financial records to overseeing budgets and expenditures. Her expertise and dedication provide a sturdy financial foundation for our company’s growth and development. Aggeliki’s analytical prowess and proactive approach have cemented her position as an indispensable member of our team, earning high regard from both colleagues and management alike.Outside of work, Aggeliki maintains a balanced and active lifestyle through Pilates, which helps her maintain focus and vitality. She also nurtures a profound affinity for the sea, finding solace and inspiration in its tranquil coastal landscapes. Aggeliki harbors a dream of exploring Greece’s many beautiful islands, each offering its unique charm and natural allure.

Dimitris Papadakis is our IT Executive at ThinkVilla, concurrently pursuing a master’s program in linguistics at the University of Crete with a specialisation in computational linguistics, programming, and natural language processing (NLP). His academic journey is propelled by an insatiable passion for exploring the intersection of language and cutting-edge technology, achieving remarkable progress in these fields.Beyond academia, Dimitris leads a dynamic life rich with diverse interests. An avid sports enthusiast, he actively participates in various athletic pursuits. His creative inclinations find expression through literature, where he crafts compelling novels and poems, and through music, where he indulges his talents in singing and playing the guitar. Additionally, Dimitris delves into psychology literature, deepening his insights into human behaviour and cognition. His adventurous spirit manifests in meticulously planned travel expeditions, eagerly anticipating cultural and scenic discoveries around the globe.Professionally, Dimitris thrives as a meticulous data analyst and back-office operator at ThinkVilla, a prestigious property management firm. Collaborating closely with our Head of IT, Mr. Giorgos Mainolas, Dimitris spearheads automation initiatives and plays a pivotal role in foundational data analysis projects. He flourishes in an innovative team environment that values continuous improvement, where his genuine enthusiasm for research and development propels ThinkVilla’s growth and enhances its standing in the luxury hospitality sector.