Vasilis turned his greatest dream into reality, leaving Athens behind for his mother’s village despite being discouraged by many.

VASILIS KOUTROULAKIS was born in central Athens, but spent a lot of time during holidays and celebrations in his mother’s village, Kleitoria. His love for the village was so profound that, as he grew older, so did his desire to live there permanently.

Eventually, he made his dream come true and moved there after completing his military service, at around 20 years old. The early years were difficult. Not only because he had to become financially independent by working various jobs such as waiter, construction worker, and more, but mainly because he had to adapt to a new way of life there.

Looking back at that journey today, 24 years after making that decision, Vasilis feels completely justified. He has a wonderful family together with his wife Panagiota, who grew up in a neighboring village and, despite getting two university degrees in Patras and Athens, shared his dream of returning to a life in the countryside. Through hard work, he succeeded in creating a thriving beekeeping business that focuses on exceptional quality.

“If you are patient, persistent and hardworking, I encourage you to do the same as I did. The climb may be difficult, but it is always rewarding, and at the end of the day, your soul feels full.”

There are challenges, of course. Over these past 24 years, he has seen the village where he chose to build his future lose more than half of its population, with everything that entails. Yet, as he explains below, the quality of life makes it worthwhile.