From fashion to hospitality — A conversation with Aby Saltiel of Kalesma Mykonos
The journey from dreaming to experiencing defines truly remarkable travel. During my recent conversation with Aby Saltiel, co-owner of the exquisite Kalesma Mykonos, I found someone who shares my passion for creating travel moments that resonate deeply with each guest's personal story.
The art of personal hospitality.
After 40 years in the fashion industry, Aby's transition to hospitality was born from his own experiences as a world traveller. “Because I travelled so much, I became a very difficult client. I was always finding little details which were missing,” he shared. “I dreamed of making a hotel the way I want a hotel to be.”
That dream materialised in Kalesma, set on a family property that Aby had spent many Summer holidays at — a piece of land with special energy, perfectly positioned to capture Mykonos' legendary sunsets.
Service beyond expectations.
What sets Kalesma apart is Aby's philosophy on service that extends beyond the property. “My philosophy is that if a client goes out and doesn't have a good time, it's still your fault, even if you didn't organise it,” he explains. This comprehensive approach to guest experience resonates deeply with my own commitment to creating seamless journeys for my clients.
The personal touch at Kalesma is unmistakable — Aby is present daily, connecting with guests and often reshaping their plans to ensure authentic experiences. We have a whole team that finds out what's new” he notes, emphasising how recommendations must stay current and trusted rather than relying on outdated advice.
His “alternative Mykonos” plans reveal hidden treasures: off-the-beaten-path restaurants, activities for families of all ages and glimpses of authentic island life. This season, they're even bringing in a local female artisan to demonstrate traditional looming — a 300-year-old craft — offering guests both cultural insight and the opportunity to commission bespoke pieces.
A personal travel philosophy.
Aby's approach to hospitality is influenced by his own travel philosophy: “The most important thing about travelling is being able to be flexible and to get what you pay for. You pay $100, I expect $100. I pay a $1,000, I expect a $1,000.”
Coming from a family that prioritised travel from an early age, Aby has carried this tradition to his own children. As a father of four, he ensures they travel not just as a family but that he also travels individually with each child, creating one-on-one memories. “It's beautiful to create memories for every kid, to give them personal attention,” he shares, recounting a month-long journey through the Far East with his son and an unplanned adventure with no real itinerary through Brazil with his daughter.
A destination within a destination.
Kalesma has evolved into what Aby calls “a destination in itself,” offering the exclusivity and service of a high end resort whilst also with the advantage of having everything Mykonos offers just minutes away. “I want to create a whole fantasy world for guests,” he explains, “but if clients just come and don't want to do anything, that's fine too.”
This balance of creating a haven of refined luxury while offering seamless access to authentic experiences beyond the hotel perfectly captures what truly memorable travel should be: personal, intentional, and meticulously attuned to each traveller’s unique desires.
