The word “philoxeníā”, etymologically comes from the ancient Greek verb “φιλώ” which means the sign of love for a-typically-foreigner, ie the care provided by the host to a visitor.The word “philoxeníā”, etymologically comes from the ancient Greek verb “φιλώ” which means the sign of love for a-typically-foreigner, ie the care provided by the host to a visitor.
In Greece, philoxenia has been observed since ancient times where the foreigner-guest was a deeply respected person who had to be given excessive importance and care. The ancient Greeks believed that hosting a foreigner was a moral duty and a test sent by the gods, so they took care every foreigner, regardless of social status (information that had a strong social impact) with absolute respect.
Actually, the term philoxenia includes:
- To welcome and treat the guest,
- To feed the guest and offer him accommodation and
- Upon departure, to offer him warm wishes and gifts.
Today in Greece, the term philoxenia is found with the same interpretation. Tourism and the hospitality industry are based on the above three basic principles. Greece is famous for its hospitable and kind people and is a feature that tourists are waiting to receive during their vacation.
Each tourist, according to economic, social (etc.) criteria chooses the type of vacation s/he wants to live. Based on these criteria, the hospitality and the levels of services you receive in each of your trips are defined according to the type of accommodation you choose.
Worldwide, there are three levels of accommodation services:
1. World-Class (Luxury) Services
The hotels offer mainly World-Class (Luxury) Services as they provide luxury restaurants, lounges, private meeting facilities, concierge services, spa facilities, on-site retail stores and there is a high proportion of staff to guests.
2. Mid-Range Services
Mid-range accommodations are aimed at the vast majority of travelers as the level of service offered is mediocre but adequate. They do not provide a variety of services, except the basic ones such as restaurant, lounge and bar.
3. Economy with Limited Services
Economy accommodations emphasize on the cleanliness and comfort of the rooms but without any extra facility which guests do not need or do not want to pay like the restaurant. In such accommodation, you will find only the basic elements you need for your vacation.
Certainly, if you visit Greece you will feel the Greek philoxenia whether you stay in a hostel or in a luxurious resort.
