Agent Diary: Why you can’t beat seeing a place to help sell it

Spear Travels’ Kim Kent recounts a recent visit to three Greek islands

I returned from annual leave to a warm welcome from my staff, who had been extremely busy and, on some days, struggled to meet clients’ demands.

I always feel a little guilty when this happens, but there is no pattern these days as to when we are going to be busy, so I wasn’t to know. But I am proud of the team, as they have managed to double our target and left our end-of-year figures looking very respectable.

Greece is the word

I have always wanted to explore more of Greece, and over the past few years I have travelled to many of the islands – and it’s so much easier to sell it if you have seen it. This year, we chose Skopelos and Skiathos, staying in boutique town hotels. We normally go for a villa with car hire but this time we decided on a different option and used local transport to get around.

[Skopelos] is the island where Mamma Mia! was filmed – and if you haven’t been, I would recommend it

Our first island was Skopelos, which is an hour by ferry from Skiathos. This, of course, is the island where Mamma Mia! was filmed – and if you haven’t been, I would recommend it. The scenery doesn’t disappoint. The town has a perfect horseshoe harbour rising upwards from the water, with white facades and terracotta red roofs.

Skopelos is the larger of the two islands but less commercialised. The waterfront has some high-quality shops and restaurants. Many of the sand/shingle beaches are known for their crystal-clear waters. These are located mainly on the west side of the island and can be easily reached by bus.

Skiathos Town, on the other hand, is far busier and has a different vibe. The town’s landmark is its natural harbour, which is a haven for yachts and adds a cosmopolitan flair.

It attracts many young visitors, so the waterfront is bustling with music bars. However, solace can be found in the narrow alleys behind pretty squares that are home to traditional churches and tavernas. There are also many upmarket shops in the winding streets.

This is one of the perks of working hard, so thank you Classic Collection for a wonderful time

The island has 60 beaches, with Koukounaries the standout attraction. The large sandy beach is a popular option, not least because you can hire a boat or go on a trip from here to explore other islands.

A two-centre holiday is an ideal option as it adds variety and a little adventure, making it a great option for you and your clients.

Crete expectations

More recently, I have returned from Crete, where I was invited by Classic Collection Holidays, one of our preferred suppliers, to help celebrate its 35th birthday. We stayed at the Abaton Island Resort & Spa, a truly luxurious five-star hotel, in Hersonissos. The trip was packed with fabulous experiences and we enjoyed some excellent food, several excursions, a spa treatment, party nights, prizes, entertainment – and a free bar throughout.

Having never visited Crete, this was a fabulous opportunity to see some of the island and meet the friendly Classic team. I would have no hesitation in recommending Crete at this time of year, as the weather was good, or the Abaton hotel. This is one of the perks of working hard, so thank you Classic Collection for a wonderful time.