Travelers, travel lovers and travel enthusiasts meet once per year somewhere around the world in order to connect, engage and get inspired; The Travel Festival’s concept is not new. It’s already popular in many parts of the world, in Greece though it’s very new.
Nevertheless, now it does exist thanks to Manos Lianopoulos, Travel Vlogger and owner of Tripment.net and TravelFest’s Founder. I personally know Manos for a few years now and I must tell you; he is hard-working (his videos are just amazing) and passionate about traveling! His drive and enthusiasm led him to introduce the concept of a Travel Festival to the Greek travel community.
How it all began
“I was lucky enough to grow up in a family that loves traveling and nature activities. So, being myself a traveler became a way of life for me. In 2013 I created my YouTube channel where I started uploading video content from my trips. TravelFest came as a natural continuity, as the next step.”
Manos describes TravelFest as a vibrant community and a space of exchanging ideas and experiences among like-minded people.
“In Greece, there wasn’t any similar inspirational event which would motivate people to get off their couch and go out there; to explore, engage with nature, meet new places and cultures. Everyone loved it. You know, I believe that all events that aim to bring together people who share the same passion and inspire each other are successful in their own way”.
What people will find at TravelFest
TravelFest can be also described as Travel TEDx. Guests can enjoy inspirational talks from all kind of travelers, watch interesting documentaries and movies, taste various flavors and have fun in Athens.
“Besides, our slogan is ‘Meet the world in two days’”!
Developing and creating a Travel Festival
“It wasn’t easy, for sure not. It still isn’t. On the one hand, you have to manage the speakers, who are all travelers, so bringing them together on specific dates and times can be tricky, as they are constantly on the go. On the other hand, you have to find the sources to financially support the festival. Given the fact that it is a new kind of project in Greece and taking into consideration the financial situation in Greece, you can assume that there are several barriers to surpass!”
Favorite destination by now
I couldn’t help but ask Manos which is his favorite place by now; a place he has visited and absolutely loved. “The next one. Always the next one!”
It may sound like a typical reply, but it is so true! The next trip, the next destination is always the best!
“Nevertheless, to answer your question, I have to say the Alps. I just love to explore this land with my motorcycle and get wonderfully lost in its small-town alleys and green surroundings. I have been there twice and I would easily go again”.
*TravelFest will be held in Athens in April 6thand 7th2019
Check all the information you need to know in the link below (in Greek).
