Our Story
Philoxenia – literally “friend to strangers” – isn’t just a word in our name. It’s a concept that runs through our blood, shaping the way we live and connect with others.
Together, we have spent decades in corporate careers filled with countless multicultural experiences and travels across the world. Over time, we realized that what truly fulfills us is something very simple: bringing happiness to the people around us. The world of hospitality felt like a natural way to live that purpose : to welcome, care and share.
Our first project in Egaleo, the heart of western Athens, carries a deeply personal story. It’s the house where Christina grew up and spent her entire life before I took her away to live in Slovakia for a few years. With her wonderful parents – equally possessed with the Philoxenia DNA – living on the ground floor, the apartments above have been lovingly transformed into a pair of bright and cozy rentals.
That’s where Philoxenia Stays was born, from our desire to create a more sustainable, human-centered form of urban hospitality, rooted in connection, authenticity and respect for the local environment.
Our goal is to offer guests something different from the typical tourist experience – a memorable stay immersed in the local rhythm, where the aromas from nearby kitchens, the sounds of the neighborhood and the smiles of the people next door become part of your story.
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David Spruyt
Born and raised in Belgium, I’ve had the privilege of living in Hungary, the Philippines, Mexico and Slovakia, enjoying a fulfilling corporate career along the way. In 2023, I moved to Greece – a country I’ve come to call “my final destination”. With Corporate life behind me, I decided to dedicate the next chapter of my life to something that always inspired me: sustainable tourism. I’m now pursuing a Masters in Sustainable Tourism, blending my business experience with a passion for creating meaningful, responsible travel experiences that give back to local communities.
Christina Bitsaxi
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Our Philosophy
At Philoxenia Stays, we believe hospitality is far more than offering a place to sleep. It’s an opportunity to create meaningful connections between travelers and locals, comfort and consciousness, people and place. Our philosophy is rooted in simplicity, authenticity and responsibility, living the true spirit of Philoxenia in everything we do.
Our Purpose
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Our Mission
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Our Vision
To become a model for sustainable urban hospitality in Greece, proving that meaningful, low impact tourism can thrive in the heart of a bustling city while giving back to the communities that make it unique.