Nontas's (the host's) home in Koundouros was simply outstanding and transcended any prior stays I've had with AirBnb hosts. Evi was incredibly prompt with her messages and made sure all arrangements were in place. Upon arriving to the home, I was met by the charismatic Nontas, who enlivened my stay and made my first impression of the place unforgettable. The impression lasted through the trip: I was accommodated with fresh marmalade and honey, a fresh load of bread, traditional Greek wheat crackers ("friganies"), both Greek and American coffee grounds/machine upon my early morning arrival - making the perfect first breakfast in Kéa. Nontas's hospitality did not end there: he further drove me to grocery stores and made sure I had enough food for myself, and whatever I wanted. The kitchen had everything you could need for cooking and serving foods, and I was very happy with the setting.

The home itself sits on a mountain face very near to ocean, with soft Agean breezes blowing every day, making wonderful natural A/C in the Greek temperate climate. The front balcony of the home is arguably the highlight of the home: opening the pastel orange curtains each morning to a bright and shimmering blue Aegean sea is just the start of it. Enjoying a book or sipping a coffee on the lounge sofas outside in the evening gives you a perfect view of the sunset off in the distance.

During the day, Nontas revealed to me a small pebble beach that can be considered the gem of Koundouros. Not many people go there, and it is the perfect place for a morning and afternoon swim, with very little salinity and very high clarity of the water. The house's location allows one to take such beach trips with ease and timeliness, since the home is so nearby. The bathroom, shower, and bedroom were all very clean with ample shower toiletries incase you forget anything and clean sheets on the king-sized bed, which was also a nice refuge after a day of exploring the island of Kéa.

Moreover, Nontas was extremely accommodating in suggesting places to visit during my stay. From ancient sites such as Karthea to a traditional Greek festival right on the port of Pisses, Kéa is an island replete with fascinating locations, people, and history.

I cannot endorse Nontas enough as the island's most knowledgable resident and hospitable Greek man. No history book is needed on your trip to Kéa, simply stay at Nontas's ideal home in Koundouros, spend some time exploring the island and swimming during the day, and enjoy a dinner with Nonta who will share with you the island's intriguing history and lore. I could not have asked for a more perfect and safe stay there, and I am already looking forward to planning my next trip in Kéa again at this same home!