As the world marks the centenary of Gerald Durrell‘s birth, Corfu is gearing up to celebrate the beloved British author whose works transformed the island into a popular tourist destination. Spyridon Chalikiopoulos, the grandson of Spiro the American—a character from Durrell’s autobiographical novel “my family and Other Animals”—is leading the festivities as the island’s deputy mayor for sustainable tourism. He recalls how Durrell was taken aback by the changes tourism brought upon Corfu during his return. Meanwhile, a posthumous autobiography titled “Me and other Animals” has been released in the UK, offering insights into Durrell’s life and adventures, further solidifying his legacy. The book, curated by his widow lee McGeorge Durrell, is available in bookstores ahead of the January 7 anniversary.gerald Durrell’s beloved works continue to captivate readers,with Adelphi publishing house announcing a new edition of his classic “My family and Other Animals” set for release on January 7,2025.This reissue comes as part of a broader strategy to celebrate Durrell’s legacy, which includes the recent revival of “Incontri con animali” and the acquisition of rights for his upcoming book. Durrell’s enchanting tales of life in Corfu, originally published in 1956, have seen remarkable success, with over 36 reprints and annual sales of 10,000 copies, bolstered by the popularity of the TV series “The Durrells.” As Corfu’s tourism flourishes post-pandemic, the enduring charm of Durrell’s writing remains a notable draw for both new and longtime fans.As Corfu prepares to commemorate the dual anniversaries of Gerald Durrell’s birth and death, the island is witnessing a surge in tourism inspired by the beloved author and naturalist. With approximately 3.5 million visitors annually, including a growing number of fans from the U.S., Canada, and Russia, the island’s charm continues to captivate. Local businesses, like Corfu Walking & Food Tours, are thriving, reporting a 10-15% increase in bookings for tours that explore the authentic corfu depicted in Durrell’s works. Highlights include the picturesque villages of Sinarades and Ano Korakiana, as well as iconic locations such as the old fortress and the Palace of St. Michael and st.George, which featured prominently in the ITV adaptation of “My Family and Other Animals.” As the island balances its rich history with modern tourism, visitors are eager to uncover the true essence of Durrell’s Corfu.The enchanting island of Corfu continues to draw visitors with its rich literary history, notably the legacy of the Durrell family. Once the residence of renowned author Lawrence Durrell and his wife Nancy, the iconic White House in Kalami has transformed into a luxurious boutique hotel, attracting travelers willing to spend up to 600 euros a night. Local entrepreneurs Ariti and Nausica, who grew up in kalami, have capitalized on the family’s enduring popularity, offering unique tours that celebrate the Durrells’ connection to the island. Meanwhile, Michail, a descendant of Spiro, operates the oldest travel agency on the island, benefiting from the renewed interest sparked by the television series based on the Durrells’ life. With 30,000 clients annually, including manny from the UK and beyond, Corfu’s charm and the Durrells’ legacy remain a significant draw for tourists seeking a glimpse into this unconventional family’s story.Explore the enchanting landscapes of Corfu, a Greek island that inspired the beloved writer Gerald Durrell. Just a short drive from the bustling city, visitors can discover the serene Gouvia Bay and the iconic Yellow Villa, where Durrell spent his childhood adventures. As you venture north towards Mount Pantokrator,the winding roads reveal olive groves and picturesque views reminiscent of Tuscany. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the pristine Erimitis Park, a sanctuary for diverse wildlife, including endangered monk seals and various bird species.With its unspoiled beaches, hidden coves, and rich biodiversity, Corfu offers a glimpse into the island’s natural beauty that captivated Durrell and continues to enchant travelers today.Explore the enchanting landscapes of Corfu, a natural paradise that inspired the young naturalist Gerald Durrell. The island boasts a rich biodiversity, featuring over 60 species of birds and 16 varieties of orchids, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Visitors can retrace Durrell’s footsteps at iconic locations such as the Venetian Arsenal in Gouvia and the picturesque village of danilia, where scenes from the beloved series ”The Durrells” were filmed. For a taste of authentic Corfiot charm, head to Kynopiastes, a village that retains its 1930s architecture, offering a glimpse into the island’s storied past. Whether you’re a fan of nature or film, Corfu promises an unforgettable experience steeped in history and beauty.Gerald Durrell’s legacy continues to thrive in Corfu, where the Peco Environmental Education Center, housed in historic 16th-century salt warehouses, serves as a beacon for conservation efforts.opened in 1999 with support from the EU’s Interreg program, this unique center is located near stunning salt flats that attract vibrant pink flamingos across 105 hectares. As the naturalist’s influence endures, his posthumous work, ”Me and other animals,” is set to inspire a new generation of readers, according to his wife, Lee Durrell. She emphasizes that Gerald’s passion for conservation was not just theoretical; it was a way of life dedicated to saving species from extinction. This ongoing commitment to environmental education and awareness reflects Durrell’s enduring impact on wildlife conservation in Greece and beyond.
Discussion between the Time.news Editor and an Expert on Gerald Durrell’s Legacy and Its Impact on corfu Tourism
Editor: Welcome! As we approach the centenary of Gerald Durrell’s birth, it seems like Corfu is preparing for a vibrant celebration of his life and works. Can you share your thoughts on how his literary legacy continues to influence tourism on the island?
Expert: Absolutely! Durrell’s writings,particularly “My Family and Other Animals” and his other autobiographical works,have profoundly shaped how people view Corfu. His enchanting tales of the island’s landscapes and wildlife have attracted millions of visitors seeking to experience the beauty he so vividly described. the upcoming celebrations, including the special events led by Spyridon Chalikiopoulos—actually the grandson of one of Durrell’s characters—are a testament to the lasting impact of his work2.
Editor: It’s fascinating that his work has led to such a surge in tourism. What do the statistics tell us about the current state of tourism in Corfu?
Expert: Tourism in Corfu has indeed seen dramatic increases, with about 3.5 million visitors annually. The surge is particularly notable post-pandemic, as travelers from the U.S., Canada, and Russia flock to the island to explore the places Durrell wrote about. Local businesses are reporting a 10-15% increase in bookings for tours that highlight these authentic locations, like Sinarades and the Palace of St. Michael and St. George, which were prominently featured in the ITV series “The Durrells”13.
Editor: Speaking of the ITV series, how has its popularity impacted the ongoing cultural engagement with Durrell’s works?
Expert: The TV series has played a pivotal role in revitalizing interest in Durrell’s stories, leading to increased sales of his books—over 10,000 copies annually, with a remarkable 36 reprints so far. The series brought his vibrant depictions of Corfu to life, making it accessible to a new generation of readers and viewers2. As a follow-up, Adelphi Publishing is launching a new edition of “My family and Other Animals” on January 7, 2025, which falls perfectly in line with the celebrations of his legacy1.
Editor: And there’s the upcoming posthumous autobiography, “Me and Other Animals,” curated by his widow. How notable do you think this release will be in maintaining his legacy?
Expert: This autobiography adds another layer to our understanding of Durrell’s life, showcasing his adventures and experiences that shaped his writing. It’s a wonderful chance for both longtime fans and new readers to connect with the man behind the stories. Its release coincides with the celebrations, further solidifying his influence in the region and beyond2.
Editor: As Corfu gears up for these commemorative events, what do you think the future holds for both durrell’s legacy and the island’s tourism?
Expert: I believe we will continue to see a positive momentum in both areas. The dual anniversaries of Gerald Durrell’s birth and death will likely spark renewed interest in his works, encouraging even more tourists to explore the enchanting landscapes he loved3. Consequently, local businesses will thrive, and the cultural and natural heritage of Corfu will be preserved and celebrated, ensuring that durrell’s legacy remains a central part of the island’s identity for years to come.