Where am I – Greek Island hopping!
Starting off with a few nights in surprisingly captivating Athens. True that it’s suffered from the effects of economic and social trouble over the last few years. But we found the city lively, diverse and literally jam packed with fascinating sights around every corner. Not to mention the food!!
We then headed south to Santorini (just as jaw dropping as the photos imply!) Charming Paros. And buzzing Mykonos. All three islands offered something completely different and only gave us more of a desire to head back as soon as possible to check out some of the others!
Destination – Greece
Duration – Two weeks
Suitable for – Absolutely anyone & everyone. Particularly great for couples / honeymooners.
Highlight – Paros all the way. Such a laidback alternative to its bigger, busier neighbours. By day we used the local bus to get around and visit ancient inland villages and out of the way beaches. And at night we ventured out on foot to stroll around the old towns of Parikia and Naoussa; bursting with cute wine bars, traditional Greek restaurants and boutique stores. Atmosphere plus plus plus.
Recommendation (fav meal / drink) – Must line up and try the Kalamata Pita from Kostas (Athens.) Cheap, cheerful and delish! For a sunset dinner in Santorini try any restaurant in Imerovigli (the best spot on the island to see the sun go down.) We had a very special dinner at La Maison there. And Lola Bar in Mykonos was a lot of fun for a good night out (half the fun was finding it!)
Lost in translation moment – Trying to get on and off the Greek ferries. It is manic and disorganized chaos and you can only give up and go with the flow! Essential to have someone meet you at the pier rather than wait forever and a day for a taxi. A lesson learned the hard way.
Insider tip – If you feel up for a wander, do try the Caldera hike from Fira to Oia (2-5hrs.) A rewarding experience with some incomparable views of the island. Definitely best accomplished first thing in the morning. Grab a well earned bite to eat when you get to Oia, then take the bus back!
Just off the coast of Mykonos, renowned for its nonstop party vibe, you’ll find the island of Delos. This sprawling archaeological site is the mythological birthplace of Apollo and offers hours and hours of easy (and fascinating) rambling opportunities amongst the ruins. The famous lions on display are replicas, head inside the museum to see the originals (from 600BCE.)
Fun fact –Inhabited for over 4,000 years, Athens has operated under every known form of government; monarchy, democracy, socialism, capitalism, even communism.
