A strategically important sector for Greece, high-end tourism, is returning to the spotlight through the 3rd International Luxury Tourism Conference – The Luxury Side of Greece, which will take place on October 18 and 19 in Santorini, at the Petros Nomikos Conference Center. For the third consecutive year, the world-famous island is hosting an institution that opens the debate on the future of Greek tourism, with the participation of leading personalities from Greece and abroad, representatives of institutional bodies, businessmen and politicians.
In a country that has already established itself as a leading international destination, high-end tourism remains of strategic importance. Its development is directly linked to the upgrading of services and infrastructure to a higher level, which strengthens the competitiveness and sustainability of Greek tourism. At the same time, it contributes to attracting travelers with special requirements, who appreciate authenticity, quality and respect for the culture and traditions of the place.
This year’s event’s honoree is Randi Zuckerberg, entrepreneur, author, founder of Zuckerberg Media and sister of Mark Zuckerberg, creator of Facebook. With a long career in technology and creative entrepreneurship, she will bring her international experience to Santorini, opening the dialogue on the connection of high-end tourism with innovation, artificial intelligence and digital transformation. In the two previous years, the Conference hosted equally emblematic international personalities - Dr Maye Musk emphasized health and well-being, while David Mayer De Rothschild had sustainability as its central axis -, confirming the international character and prestige of the event.
This year's Conference program covers a wide range of topics, from gastronomy and wine tourism to wellness, marine tourism and new trends in sustainable development using technology as a tool. The entire event promises two days full of dynamic presentations, meaningful dialogue, knowledge exchange and high-level networking, in an environment that ideally combines high-standard hospitality with authentic Cycladic aesthetics. The thematic sections cover the entire spectrum of luxury tourism:
- Gastronomy & wine tourism – Taste and wine as highly aesthetic experiences.
- Yachting & cruising – The sea and islands as a luxury setting.
- Conference tourism & MICE – Greece as a hub for business and cultural meetings.
- Hotels & hospitality – New trends, boutique experiences and personalized services.
- High-level services – From VIP transfers to tailor-made experiences.
- Shopping & luxury brands – Fashion, jewelry and luxury products in focus.
- Real estate & investments – The development of luxury homes and resorts in Greece.
- Wellness & medical tourism – Wellness, spa and innovative health services.
- Sustainability & innovation – Green practices and responsible development.
- Digital transformation – From social media to the metaverse, technology is reshaping luxury tourism.
- Culture & experiences – The connection with the history, art and traditions of the place.
At the same time, for the second year, the Luxury Tourism Awards will be presented, highlighting businesses and professionals who set new standards in the industry. The Conference is organized by Update Entertainment, and its “soul” is the journalist and inspirer/organizer Elli Spyropoulou, who has overseen every last detail of this year’s high-demand event. The Conference is under the auspices of the Ministry of Tourism, the Municipality of Thira, the Panhellenic Federation of Hoteliers (POX) and the Santorini Hoteliers Association.
For the detailed program and more information, visit the Conference website: https://theluxurysideofgreece.com/
