Stunning Beachfront Villa on the Gulf of Corinth

There is a delightful ambiguity in the meaning of the Greek word 'xenos', which has existed at least since the time of Homer. It can mean, simply, 'foreigner' of 'stranger'. But it can also mean 'friend', especially in the sense of a long distance friendship. This arose because in ancient times, Greeks thought that strangers could be gods or goddesses in disguise, so they looked after them well in the hope that, if indeed the stranger were a god, they would be be blessed.
One could be forgiven for thinking that, particularly with Greece's present difficulties, times might have changed.
Wrong!
I recently returned to Greece, with my girlfriend, for the first time since the onset of the crisis, and, despite the obvious signs of hardship, this wonderful quality of the Greeks was as strong as ever. The hotelier in Amphissa welcoming us as we drove into town late at night, the generosity of the Gemelos taverna-owner in Ancient Corinth, who would not allow us to leave without two bottles of his tasty wine. And so it continued - throughout our 17 day trip all across the country. We had planned to spend 6 nights in the middle of our tour in one place, as a break from our travels. The seaside villa we had provisionally booked turned out not to be right for us. This found us stretching the afore-mentioned taverna's wi-fi facilities to find an alternative. Into our screens on HomeAway came Villa Corinthia in close by Nerantza. It was obviously meant to be, because the exact dates we required happened to be free. As it was only 15 minutes away, we drove to the gentile seaside village of Nerantza and found the villa, which is immediately by the sea (balcony views as if from a liner). Introducing ourselves over the wall from the beach, the owner Chris invited us in and showed us around. The villa comprises two apartments, the one which Chris lets being on the upper floor, but guests have full use of the charming, lush private garden (with direct access to the beach) as well as large balconies. Comfortable, well-appointed with two bathrooms, and plenty of bedspace, it fitted the bill perfectly. We had a wonderful and relaxing time, enjoying the excellent food from the butcher and village shop (within 100m across the street), views, sea breezes, wonderful swimming and local restaurants.
So what has this to do with 'xenos'?
... (continued in next review)

We chose this superb villa for our summer vacation and we had the best of times. It was exactly what we needed. The view from the house was unbelievable. Really beautiful. I can't even get a view like that at a hotel or an exclusive resort. Also, I have never enjoyed swimming so much before. We spent a month there and also did a lot of traveling. Went to Epidavros - the ancient theatre which was close, to Nafplio and Athens. We only hope that we will have the opportunity to come back sooner than later!

We received wonderful hospitality from the host. We were a group of eight, and fitted comfortably into the 3 double rooms, and 2 single beds in the loft extension.
The house has all facilities, and is extremely comfortable. The proprietor's offer of home-grown produce (including copious eggs) is genuine. The waters of the Gulf of Corinth are literally 5 steps outside the back gate, and they offer great swimming opportunities. Better, we all thought, than the world's largest swimming pool! The house itself enjoys plenty of balcony/terrace space for those who like sun-bathing. Perfect get-away location.
But also, perfect for the sightseer: we had a hired car, and thus easy access to all parts of the Peloponnese, and even as far as Delphi. Athens is just over an hour by car. The open-air theatre at Epidavros is about an hour-and-a-half away.
In short, luxurious accommodation, in a perfect location.
For all this, the price is excellent value.