People of Aegina #21 – Rowena Harding
Lovely Rowena is residing on the stunning island of Aegina accompanied by her spouse, Jon. Rowena hails from Noongar territory in Australia, while Jon originates from England. They operate a communications consultancy which offers guidance to researchers on effective engagement with policy makers and non-governmental organisations involved in the resolution of issues such as poverty, inequality, and environmental challenges. The notable feature of their job is that it is merely online, thereby enabling them to work from any place in the world!
Why Aegina…
What connects us to Aegina…
It’s hard to describe because I think those who have chosen to live here really know that something casts a spell on you, but you can’t quite describe it. There is the beautiful light, the nature, the landscape. But there is also something about its year-round residents. Perhaps a kindly yiayia who smiles at you when you’re swimming, or an older κύριος regularly nodding as he passes on his motorbike. And when the tourists and summer visitors go, there is the quiet buzz of life that is noticed only if you spend time on the island observing the small things that make Aegina unique.
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My favourite spots on the island, my hidden gems…
Oh there are so many!
One of my favorite spots to visit is a small path above Souvala port where I love to watch the sunrise. It has become a part of my daily routine, and I always make sure to capture this stunning view on my Instagram page. Another one of my favorite things to do on the island is to sit outside my favorite portside cafe in Souvala and watch the Μπέση family fishermen work. They must think I am crazy because I take photos all the time! But I could spend all day doing this, mesmerized by the hustle and bustle of the fishermen as they go about their daily routine.
Another hidden gem that I love to visit is Saint John chapel near Afea temple. The location is serene, and I could lie under the tree there for hours, just looking at the trees in the valley above Agia Marina.
Another place that I love to visit is a big rock in the valley on the way up from the ελαιώνας to Pachia Rachi. From these two places, you can see no houses, just trees and the sky, and maybe even eagles. I enjoy exploring the island’s many historical sites, such as the temple of Aphaia, which has a fascinating history. But what I enjoy most is the simple pleasures that the island offers. The beautiful beaches, the crystal clear waters, and the stunning sunsets all make me feel at peace and connected to nature.
Hiking and cycling in Aegina…
I love to walk and hike in Aegina. How lucky we are to have so many great hiking trails and wonderful gardens to admire on walks around the villages. I also love to cycle and I believe this island has great potential to be a year-round walking and hiking destination. All we need is: some footpaths so everyone of all abilities can walk safely or use a wheelchair to enjoy our town; and for our drivers to please give cyclists space when you pass us, because we all know our roads are a little rough!
Aegina in one phrase:
Aegina is a patient seductress; you can’t just come here once!
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I love Aegina because of…
The people: thank you for making us feel very much at home here!
And a few words about weloveaegina.com by Rowena…
I would like to say that we love “We Love Aegina” website and Instagram page because it brings the island to life to people from all around the world!
In conclusion, Aegina Island is more than just a vacation destination. It is a place where remote workers and nature lovers can find inspiration, recharge their batteries, and create a sense of community. Rowena and Jon’s story is just one example of how Aegina has captured the hearts of many who have chosen to make it their home.
We want to thank Rowena for the time she took to talk to us! We love Rowena!
Stay tuned for more #weloveaegina stories!
Do you want to become an Aegina Ambassador yourself or do you know anybody else who would like to? Send us an email at: ask@weloveaegina.com or contact us through our social media!
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