Why Kefalonia Feels Like Home: A Retiree’s Love Affair with Greece

Kefalonia, cradled by the azure waters of the Ionian Sea, is a Greek island like no other. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, it has long drawn travelers seeking beauty and tranquility. For Theresa Kekatos, however, Kefalonia became more than just a destination—it became home.

Her love affair with the island began decades ago, when she met her husband, Harry, a Kefalonian native. She often says, “First and foremost, I fell in love with my husband, Harry. The rest was easy—learning about his life only deepened my desire to meet his family and see where he grew up.”

Beyond her love for Harry, the island itself became part of her heart. She describes it simply: “The sky is above, the ocean is below, and Kefalonia is a beautiful island in between the two.”

A New Life in a Timeless Place

Originally from Chicago, Theresa immediately felt at home on the less touristy Greek island, where the absence of large crowds and commercialized attractions offered a more authentic and relaxed lifestyle. The welcoming, down-to-earth Kefalonians and the slower pace of life were two of the biggest draws.

A Catholic of Italian heritage, she was warmly embraced by the local community. “People are genuine. They truly are happy to see you and have no ulterior motive,” she reflects. A retired certified medical technician, she notes that the main differences between the U.S. and her adopted home are Kefalonia’s simplicity and natural beauty.

Theresa converted to Greek Orthodox Christianity when she married Harry, ensuring their children were raised under one faith. Her Greek name, Theodora, means “gift of God,” while Harry’s Greek name, Harilaos, translates to “joy to the people.” Together, they were blessed with three daughters and eight grandchildren during their 52-year marriage.

As the wife of a Greek citizen, Theresa holds a Residence Permit for Family Members of a Greek Citizen. She and Harry married in 1972 and began visiting Kefalonia every year, spending summers with family and escaping the harsh Chicago winters for a few months at a time. She learned Greek, and their daughters attended Greek school in the U.S.

The couple benefited from a family home in Minia, a small village near the island’s airport. Just a 10-minute coastal drive leads to Argostoli, Kefalonia’s bustling capital, with its palm-lined promenade, lively cafés, bakeries, and boutique shops. The pedestrian-only main piazza, fringed with restaurants, makes it a vibrant gathering place.

Embracing the Kefalonian Way of Life

Theresa and Harry built a life filled with love, family, and Kefalonian charm.

Theresa easily adapted to life in Kefalonia, thanks to the warmth of the locals. The simple pleasures of village life made her feel welcomed and at home.

“With a village of approximately 80 families, it was not difficult to integrate into the community. Every morning, neighbors would pass by, shepherds would smile and wave as they led their flocks to graze, and others would stop to say ‘Kali mera’—good day. Many would pause for a quick chat as they walked past. I always had enjoyable conversations with my village neighbors, who are very genuine, honest, hard-working, and sincere people. I truly love them!”

She readily embraced the island’s slower pace, mirroring the daily rhythms of the locals. “Many years ago, I learned to follow a typical daily routine by watching my mother-in-law and neighbors. Around 7 a.m., the roosters would start crowing—it was time to get up. Morning coffee and toast were prepared, a fresh outfit for the day was put on, and then it was time to water the garden. All Greeks take pride in their gardens. Throughout the day, simple, polite exchanges with neighbors made every interaction warm and familiar. The village priest oversaw four villages, so I would see many neighbors at least once a month.”

Beyond gardening, Theresa enjoys reading, watching historical documentaries, and nature programs.

Kefalonia has grown in popularity over the years, with 2023 marking an especially busy summer season—a trend she expects to continue. The island welcomes visitors from the United States, Canada, and Australia. An English family with three children has lived in the apartment above her for over 13 years, and many local workers in the tourist sector speak English.

She finds deep peace in Kefalonia, particularly in its many churches and monasteries. “St. Gerasimus Monastery is at the top of my list. I also love visiting the Monastery of St. Andrew. These beautiful, tranquil places bring me immense peace. I have always believed the Mediterranean is more blessed than anywhere else in the world—God, his apostles, and many saints walked this land for centuries. That is incredibly humbling. This, to me, is what makes this beautiful place my home.”

Natural Beauty & Welcoming Locals

Assos: A charming coastal village with colorful houses and stunning sea views.|©iStock/Balate Dorin

Kefalonia may not offer the same level of nightlife as Mykonos or Santorini, but its slower pace of life and breathtaking vistas hold a different kind of allure. The island’s magnetism lies in the warmth of its people and the stunning contrast of deep blue seas and lush green landscapes. From the rugged cliffs of its coastline to its verdant interior, Kefalonia presents a visual spectacle at every turn.

One of its most iconic and photographed landmarks is Myrtos Beach, a crescent of dazzling white pebbles embraced by crystalline waters, made famous by the movie Captain Corelli’s Mandolin (starring Nicolas Cage and Penélope Cruz).

Venturing inland, the scenery shifts to rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves—a pastoral paradise waiting to be explored. Mount Ainos, the island’s tallest peak, provides breathtaking panoramas and a sanctuary for indigenous flora and fauna. Hiking trails wind through fragrant pine forests, offering a chance to connect with nature while soaking in spectacular views.

While Argostoli exudes a cosmopolitan vibe with its waterfront promenade, some of the most charming villages are nestled along the island’s coastline. Assos, with its pastel-colored houses and cobblestone streets, is a reward for those who take the time to explore. Daily ferries connect travelers to Lixouri, as well as the mainland and neighboring Ithaca—home of Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey.

The Greek Kitchen: The Island’s Heartbeat

Like most Greek islands, food is central to daily life in Kefalonia. The island’s fertile soil and pristine waters provide an abundance of fresh ingredients, forming the foundation of its rich gastronomy. Seafood—grilled octopus, marinated sardines, and fried calamari—features prominently on menus, alongside fresh yogurt and vegetable-based meze platters. Olive oil, a staple of the Mediterranean diet, infuses dishes with its golden richness, while local cheeses like feta and kefalotyri add a savory depth to traditional recipes.

Beyond the expected seafood and classic Greek staples like moussaka and souvlaki, Kefalonia is famed for its meat pie, a hearty phyllo-encased dish combining lamb, pork, and beef with aromatic spices. Bakeries across the island offer homemade delights, from traditional baklava to Kefalonia’s signature orange cake, a citrus-infused delicacy. Many baked goods here lean more savory than sweet, often featuring honey, sesame seeds, and pistachios. Even simple items surprise—like the unique carrot-based “diet” crackers.

Wine lovers will also find much to savor, with the island’s vineyards producing the celebrated Robola varietal. Local wineries and bee farms welcome visitors, offering insights into traditional production methods and the opportunity to sample fresh, locally sourced delicacies.

Practical Tips & Affordability

Villages like Fiskardo offer affordable living with scenic charm.|©iStock/Balate Dorin

For those dreaming of calling Kefalonia home, a variety of affordable apartments are available across the island. Theresa’s best advice for anyone considering a move? Plan ahead. For her, it was Greece or nowhere—she knew she belonged here.

While the cost of living in Kefalonia is fairly comparable to the U.S., Theresa notes some key differences. Gasoline is slightly more expensive, but dining out is more affordable, making it easier to enjoy the island’s café culture. Short-term rentals vary depending on location, with a centrally located one-bedroom apartment starting at around $450 per month, while a three-bedroom home can cost approximately $1,000 per month. Utilities, including electricity, water, and heating, add about $120 per month to living expenses.

The best rental deals can be found outside of peak tourist season. Prices are highest in popular beach towns like Argostoli, Skala, Lourdas, and Lassi, where demand from tourists keeps costs elevated. In contrast, traditional villages like Sami, Fiskardo, Assos, and Agia Efimia offer more affordable accommodations and a genuine taste of local life.

Kefalonia is easily accessible by ferry and via its modern international airport, just 15 minutes from Argostoli. Public transport is affordable and efficient, making it a stress-free way to explore the island. Bus fares average under $2 per ride, connecting most major towns and beaches. However, for those staying in remote villages or traveling off-season, a rental car (around $30 per day) may be necessary. Taxis are the most expensive option, though airport transfers generally cost around $25.

Dining out in Kefalonia is more budget-friendly than in many other European destinations. Seafront restaurants typically charge $18–$20 per meal, while local tavernas inland serve hearty portions for as little as $8–$10. Bakeries are a daily ritual for locals, offering freshly baked goods that make for quick, affordable meals.

Grocery prices vary, with imported products being more expensive, but local produce and specialties remaining reasonably priced. For example:

• A dozen eggs cost about $2.50

• A gallon of milk is $1.50

• A bottle of wine can be found for under $10

A Lasting Love for Kefalonia

Theresa and her husband surrounded by their greatest joy—their beloved grandchildren.

It’s easy to see why Kefalonia’s natural beauty and warm hospitality captivated Theresa all those years ago. Sadly, she lost Harry to pancreatic cancer in 2023, but she continues to honor his memory in the place they both cherished. In Greek tradition, locals share the beautiful phrase “memory be eternal” to honor lost loved ones.

For Theresa, family remains her greatest treasure. Summers bring her daughters and grandchildren to visit, filling her home with laughter and love. “My most memorable and wonderful times are when my daughters and their families come to visit. They stay anywhere from three weeks to a month and a half each summer. I have eight grandchildren—four granddaughters and four grandsons, ranging from age 8 to 3. I truly hope they’ll continue to experience the same joyful summers in Kefalonia that their mothers did as children.”

Theresa has found a true home in Kefalonia, where the embrace of local traditions and community life has allowed her to keep her husband’s memory alive. Kefalonia enchanted her decades ago, and it continues to do so today. As she beautifully sums it up, “I feel that God has bestowed on me a truly beautiful treasure.”

For those seeking a serene lifestyle, picturesque mountain villages, a Mediterranean climate, and a lower cost of living compared to other European destinations, Kefalonia offers an idyllic haven. Its welcoming community, vibrant café culture, and breathtaking landscapes make it an ideal place for a peaceful and fulfilling retirement.