If you’re craving a welcoming and enchanting getaway, visit Greece! Owned by Yin (yingthai), it’s the perfect destination for a captivating Mediterranean retreat. Last month I wrote about the scenic sculptures and structures provided by the gifted Artemis (artemisgreece). This month I’m honored to interview Yin and find out more about what inspired the creation of such a charming place to enjoy.

Kairi Cristole: As an icebreaker, the first question is about getting to know you a bit more. What are you looking forward to in the New Year?

Yin: While it may seem cliché, my foremost wish is for everyone to stay safe and healthy. Speaking about myself, I am a restless person constantly driven by the desire to create, seeking joy in every moment, and cherishing the company of close friends.

Kairi: That is wonderful, I feel the same way. Your drive is evident in your work. What inspired the creation of Visit Greece? How long did it take to make your vision of Visit Greece come to life?

Yin: Being half Greek, my inspiration stemmed from my love for my country. I wanted to recreate a real Greek Island for people who have never visited Greece in real life, allowing them to experience our everyday life. I wanted to showcase our white and blue landscapes, our narrow streets; to evoke the warmth of Greek hospitality, and, above all, our rich history. Fortunately, I had good friends around me who embraced this project, and with their help and support, “Visit Greece” was completed after two months of hard work.

Kairi: Can you share about your team, and how they play a part in the sim structure?

Yin: I’ve known Artemis (ArtemisGreece) for a very long time. When I told her about my idea, she immediately agreed to help. She is the one who built the entire place and created the statues presented in it. Additionally, Dimitris Fullstop, my oldest friend, contributed with extra ideas related to art direction, and Jumbo Rider, the manager of the pub existing on the island and an old good friend, encouraged me with the project.

Kairi: Exploring has been exciting, finding little areas to relax or great angles for pictures. My favorite is the waterfront at sunset. Do you have a favorite area?

Yin: There are so many charming places to explore and feel welcomed, such as the small coffee shop with a view of the island’s backside or the seafood tavern on the way to the lighthouse. It’s difficult to choose just one favorite. Of course, the sunset balcony holds a special place in my heart. Additionally, I adore the small house next to the vineyard and the two secluded beaches tucked under the rock of the Ancient Theater.

Kairi: I’ve noticed there are clickable YouTube buttons all around with educational videos. They are immersive and informative for visitors. Why is it important to provide more than a beautiful destination but also provide knowledge?

Yin: As I mentioned before, one of my goals for this project was for people who visit the island to learn about our history from an artistic, informative, and educational point of view. Just because the ancient buildings presented in the back of the island or the Parthenon Caryatids situated at the front port, are replicas of the real ones; these YouTube buttons are linked to specific videos that will provide more knowledge on what they have seen.

Kairi: There is a church and a lovely reception area overlooking the water. What are some other events people can have at this location? Who would they need to contact to get started?

Yin: We have thought to provide two different areas for wedding receptions. The first one is the traditional one for people who would like to host a party in the traditional Greek way, and the second one is located at a stunning ancient building. As the island project operates under a “non-commercial” license (due to our use of the name Greece), there will be no charge for hosting weddings and receptions. Instead, we gratefully welcome donations, which will support ongoing improvements and updates to the land in the future. For additional inquiries regarding weddings and other activities, please contact me YingThai or ArtemisGreece.

Kairi: With many areas made for gatherings, are there any upcoming events we should mark on our calendars?

Yin: Our thought as a team is to keep the land open for artists, photographers, and people who love to explore. In the future, we’d love to host exhibitions, parties, or even ancient drama performances.

Kairi: Is there any additional information you would like our readers to know?

Yin: We designed this place to be walk-friendly, so we encourage people to explore all the streets and see where they lead to. Each one has a beautiful ending. Moreover, there are sea activities that anyone can enjoy, as well as a tour boat that goes around the island. And, of course, don’t miss the opportunity to ride Snuku the donkey, which is the attraction of the island! As our famous Greek poet C.P. Cavafy says, ‘What makes you rich is not the destination, but the journey.”

Adventure for hours in the picturesque setting created to bring the timeless culture and beauty of Greece within reach, no passport required.

^{– Kairi Cristole}

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