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  9. A meant-to-be cat sit on a Greek island - Simona’s story

A meant-to-be cat sit on a Greek island - Simona’s story

TrustedHousesitters blog author - Ilja Jonk
Ilja Jonk
15 June 20263 min read
Cover image of a black cat looking into the camera

Picture this: a small village on a gorgeous Greek island. Sandy beaches, the bluest water, peaceful greenery, and 14 loving cats to snuggle. This was Simona’s reality after finding her dream pet sit through TrustedHousesitters. She - very happily - agreed to caring for a cozy home and 14 outdoor cats in Spilia, Crete.

After settling into her temporary home, Simona soon met her 14 new furry friends and bonded with them instantly. Which of the cats she had the best connection with is hard for her to say, as they were all unique and wonderful in their own way.

“They all have different personalities. Some are very friendly and love attention, while others are more independent and curious.”

One thing was clear: her bond with the cats made her Greek experience even dreamier and more fulfilling. They added warmth, purpose, and - very importantly - a lot of snuggles, purrs, and love to her stay.

“The cats make the whole experience very special.”

Crete's beautiful beach and blue sea

Although they’re outdoor cats, Simona looked for those special moments of quality time with them. They gave her a sense of peace and added that extra bit of joy to her days on the island - a feeling that only pet sitters know about. She realized all you need is good company, the Mediterranean sun, and the calm of a Greek village.

“The cats make every day more enjoyable and peaceful. Watching them, feeding them, and spending time together creates a unique bond.”

And besides the sweet moments they shared and the connection they built, her new friends also taught Simona something special: to take a breath and enjoy the small things in life.

“The cats encouraged me to slow down and enjoy simple moments.”

Some snapshots from Simona's days exploring

For Simona, house sitting has transformed the way she travels. Caring for pets gave her a taste of local life, a daily rhythm, and a sense of fulfillment that simply can’t be matched by a typical vacation.

“House sitting feels much more authentic than staying in a hotel. You have your own space, a routine, and a deeper connection to the place.”

“Instead of being a tourist, you become part of the local life.”

Living in a local’s home and caring for pets made Simona feel like she truly belonged there. And when some of the cafes in nearby villages - where the staff and regulars were all very welcoming - became part of Simona’s daily routine, she knew she was falling for the local Greek life.

“I recommend ordering a Greek coffee or freddo espresso and enjoying the slow atmosphere.”

Life in Spilia was - besides the adorable cats - about its quiet charm, the local restaurants serving authentic Greek food, and the many beautiful beaches where Simona enjoyed nature without crowds. She spent her days walking around the quiet village, falling head over heels for its stunning scenery and the surrounding hills.

The stunning views of the Greek island

 “The combination of sea, sun, and peaceful surroundings makes it ideal.”

It’s clear her time pet sitting in Spilia left its paw prints on Simona’s heart. Between the gentle rhythm of Greek island life and the bond she shared with her 14 furry friends, Simona found a sense of belonging she won’t soon forget.

“This experience showed me how rewarding house sitting can be.”

The sky offering an amazing sunset every night

The memories of her time in Spilia are still fresh, and Simona will always look back on this love story with an ear-to-ear smile, grateful for the pets and people that made it possible.

“It’s not just about travel, but about connection - with pets, places, and a different way of life.”

Ready to find a sit that just clicks?

If, like Simona, you’re ready to get used to what traveling with purpose feels like, it’s time to skip the tourist track, and find your perfect pet sitting match. Click below to get started.

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