Europe Explored » Greece https://europeexplored.com Travel through the most beautiful places in Europe Fri, 06 Sep 2013 07:49:44 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=3.6 Tips For Holiday Makers Coming To Greece From The UK – What To Be Aware Of To Not Get Caught Out https://europeexplored.com/2013/09/02/tips-holiday-makers-coming-greece-uk-aware-get-caught/ https://europeexplored.com/2013/09/02/tips-holiday-makers-coming-greece-uk-aware-get-caught/#comments Mon, 02 Sep 2013 18:59:37 +0000 Claire https://europeexplored.com/?p=15609 Greece’s recent economic troubles are no match for centuries of cultural heritage founded on hospitality and a refined, sophisticated social nature. Against a backdrop of recent struggles with austerity measures and civil unrest, the majestic vistas of Greece’s rugged limestone mountains and crystal blue waters have done little to alleviate the concerns of travellers. Is […]

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Greece’s recent economic troubles are no match for centuries of cultural heritage founded on hospitality and a refined, sophisticated social nature.

Against a backdrop of recent struggles with austerity measures and civil unrest, the majestic vistas of Greece’s rugged limestone mountains and crystal blue waters have done little to alleviate the concerns of travellers. Is Greece safe? Can you trust the locals, the government, the hoteliers? Should you take extra precautions, or wait for things to calm down?

Greece
License: Image author owned

The Foreign Travel Advice page from Gov.uk is clear in it’s summary: travellers in Greece generally enjoy a trouble-free holiday. That said, there are strikes and protests planned to take place in Athens over the coming months. If you avoid these areas, you’re only difficulty will be with potential delays and disruptions in public transport.

Tip 1: Get the Lowdown

Strikes and protests in Greece generally take place on one of three traditional dates, made clear on the Gov.uk website. Disruptions to public transport are publicised well in advance, and dealing with a reputable agent will ensure you have all the travel advice you need for the dates when travelling. Greece is a small country, but it’s many villages and towns, together with landmarks like Mount Olympus, mean that there’s no reason to restrict your self to it’s marginal but inconvenient trouble hotspots. It’s also worth remembering that the 2011 riots in London did little to deter travellers to the UK.

Mount Olympus, Greece
Mount Olympus, Greece by stefg74

Tip 2: Follow the Usual Precautions

Laid-back and hospitable it may be, but Greece is no exception to the general rules of travel. Pickpockets operate in busy areas, and young people are advised to travel together if only because they can wind up in precarious situations through a lack of street-smarts.

Troubles in Athens will not concern the majority of UK holidaymakers, who favour Greece’s many beautiful islands. Larger resort complexes carry the usual risks, and travellers are advised to take only registered taxis, drink moderately, or, failing moderation, staying in groups.

Skopelos island, Greece
Skopelos island, Greece by John Karakatsanis

Tip 3: Take Advantage

Greece’s tourist trade is the countries biggest source of income, and recent media coverage has been unfairly biased towards its political situation. This has resulted in fewer tourists, and as a result many hotels are offering reductions and unbeatable promotional offers. On an economic level, your trade is doing the country a service, for the same reason that more brazen investors are scooping up properties in Cyprus – it’s a good opportunity.

The country is still safe, but coverage of civil unrest paints an unfair picture and is largely disproportionate to the actual cultural climate. The Telegraph recently surmised the majority of media attention as simply ‘alarmist’.

Greece itself is characterised by an easy-going culture and laid-back populace, renowned for endearing habits like enjoying meals with extended family of the extended family on a regular basis, and refusing to lock doors. It retains its unique charm, even in turbulent conditions, because it is an essential part of the hospitable Greek nature. Its monuments and cultural attractions stand as testament to Greece’s rich history, and never fail to inspire awe and wonder in the thousands of visitors that return every year.

James Mahoney is a travel writer that spent a number of years in Greece before returning to live in the UK. When travelling down to London you can expect to find him at the Lancaster London Hotel, enjoying their afternoon tea, while he also enjoys (on the summer days) taking a boat out on the Serpentine just across from the Hotel in London’s Hyde Park.

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Spotlight On Mykonos And Santorini | Greece https://europeexplored.com/2013/08/22/spotlight-on-mykonos-and-santorini-greece/ https://europeexplored.com/2013/08/22/spotlight-on-mykonos-and-santorini-greece/#comments Thu, 22 Aug 2013 10:42:23 +0000 Claire https://europeexplored.com/?p=15494 If you’re looking for the perfect combination of Greek islands, Santorini and Mykonos should be at the top of your list. Perfectly placed for island-hopping, a holiday that includes both of these Cycladic islands will give you scenery, culture and a taste of the infamous nightlife too, if that’s your scene. Oia, Santorini, Greece by […]

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If you’re looking for the perfect combination of Greek islands, Santorini and Mykonos should be at the top of your list. Perfectly placed for island-hopping, a holiday that includes both of these Cycladic islands will give you scenery, culture and a taste of the infamous nightlife too, if that’s your scene.

Oia, Santorini, Greece
Oia, Santorini, Greece by BluEyedA73

Head to Santorini for the first part of your trip, and search out some of the beautiful beaches to relax on. Santorini is known as one of the more glamorous Greek islands, and it is indeed extremely pretty – find the black volcanic beaches at Kamari for picturesque coastal towns and unusual ruins, or the famous Red Beach near Akrotiri if you’re looking for a photogenic place to sun worship for a few hours. If you’re visiting in the summer, and indulging in some sunbathing, a word of advice: pay for a sunbed. The black sand gets extremely hot! As with most tourist beaches, there is no shortage of ‘Looky Looky’ men and women plying their wares, but a polite “No thanks” is usually sufficient if you’re not interested in their goodies.

For a real feel of the island, Akrotiri is where you’ll find remnants of an ancient culture that survived only because of advanced architectural techniques. The island was decimated by a volcanic eruption of the same ferocity as Pompeii around 3,500 years ago, but there are fascinating remains and some amazing art and pottery still in existence that show how sophisticated the island was even back then.

Goulas of Akrotiri, Santorini, Greece
Goulas (medieval castle) of Akrotiri, Santorini, Greece by Klearchos Kapoutsis

If you’re visiting Perissa, the food and hospitality at the Magic Bus is highly recommended. At the end of Perissa beach, the bar/restaurant is famous for its friendly staff, gorgeous décor and delicious food.

The main city, Fira, looks exactly like a Greek island should look – fantastic sea views, beautiful, pristine whitewashed buildings, and for archaeology enthusiasts there’s the Museum of Prehistoric Thera which is full of fascinating Minoan artefacts. There is no shortage of shops and cafes to explore at your leisure, and Fira is best explored at a leisurely pace in the afternoon, while avoiding the daily influx of cruise ship visitors. For one of the best views on the island, try the Palia Kameni Cocktail Bar, which is situated on the Caldera next to Archipelagos Restaurant.

Fira sunset, Greece
Fira sunset, Greece by hozinja

There is a plethora of nice places to stay in Santorini. In Perissa the Zorzis Hotel is a favourite, rated highly for its friendly owners and winner of a Traveller’s Choice award for service from Trip Advisor in 2013. The Enigma apartments in Fira are also highly rated, and boast lovely accommodation in a fantastic central location.

Once you’ve chilled out and enjoyed the delicious calm of Santorini, you can hop over to Mykonos to liven things up a little. The ferries run twice-weekly and cost around €14 for a six hour trip, or you can take the fast boat, which runs daily; it costs €28 and allows you to shave up to three hours off your travelling time. Ready-made tours are also on offer from tour operators.

Mykonos, Greece
Mykonos, Greece by Ion Androutsopoulos / License: Creative Commons

Mykonos’ reputation as a gay party island has faded in recent years, possibly due to a concerted effort by the island’s tourism department to reposition Mykonos as a family destination. That said, the island, and especially its nightlife, is still lively and gay-friendly.

The atmosphere of Mykonos is glamorous and ever-so slightly Bohemian. You might find the beaches eerily empty before midday due to many of the island’s visitors sleeping off the night before, so if you’re an early bird, you have the perfect opportunity to bag a decent space on the sand before lunch.

There’s plenty to see in Hóra, including the pretty Matoyianni Street and two museums, Maritime and Folklore, although the Folklore museum’s opening times can be hit and miss. Little Venice is another picturesque spot, which looks as it sounds and is the ideal place to wander with your camera on a balmy day. The water’s edge restaurants and bars are gorgeous, but be prepared to part with a fair number of your Euros if you eat at any of them. However, the amazing sunsets are worth every penny.

Elias Beach on Mykonos, Greece
Elias Beach on Mykonos, Greece by Squirmy2000

For slightly less expensive eating options, you could try M-eating in the town centre for contemporary Mediterranean cuisine, or Karavaki Restaurant at Agios Eleftherios, which boasts some spectacular views of the Aegean Sea and fantastic Greek food.

For retail therapy, you’ll find a lovely selection of fashion and jewellery, as well as the ubiquitous tourist shops. Like Santorini, though, Mykonos is a haven for cruise ships and Hóra can become extremely busy between 10am and 5pm.

The Carbonaki Hotel is highly recommended for its family feel and well-developed eco-policies, but it’s also clean, well-placed and very comfortable.

The nightlife of Mykonos deserves a special mention – Paradise Beach is the island’s main party beach, and is also great for water sports during the day. Little Venice, while pricey, is a popular place to start off an evening’s entertainment, and then if you’re up for a night of clubbing, you can expect to find a lively atmosphere at Cavo Paradiso (close to Paradise Beach) or Space in Hóra. For a more laid back evening’s entertainment, there’s also the Piano Bar in Little Venice.

Little Venice, Mykonos, Greece
Little Venice, Mykonos, Greece by Zitumassin

For a more gay-centric night out, the drag acts at Pierros are legendary. Lola Bar near Little Venice is a chic bar complete with rather plush furniture, and down on the harbour front you’ll find Jacky O and Babylon, both great party venues, with Jacky O having a reputation as being quite ‘hands-on’.  There’s also an annual gay festival, XLsior in Santorini and also Mykonos in August, which takes place around the indoor bars and beach venues and features top international DJs, cabaret and more!

Island-hopping between Santorini and Mykonos is the perfect combination of lively and laid back, and promises a holiday that offers culture, scenery and a fabulous selection of cocktails on the beach…

Written by Katharina Kraetzer, a blogger who loves to travel in Europe. This summer she will visit Italy and Slovenia.

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Five Memorable Experiences In Corfu https://europeexplored.com/2013/07/30/five-memorable-experiences-in-corfu/ https://europeexplored.com/2013/07/30/five-memorable-experiences-in-corfu/#comments Tue, 30 Jul 2013 04:19:14 +0000 Claire https://europeexplored.com/?p=15321 Corfu is one of the most popular Greek islands and a hit with both couples and families alike. While children love the wet and wild waterparks for adults it’s a rich and varied history that attracts them to the island and we’re not just talking Ancient Greek remains, but also the childhood home of England’s […]

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Corfu is one of the most popular Greek islands and a hit with both couples and families alike. While children love the wet and wild waterparks for adults it’s a rich and varied history that attracts them to the island and we’re not just talking Ancient Greek remains, but also the childhood home of England’s Prince Phillip and a rugged beach where Shakespeare set The Tempest. If you’re looking for an unforgettable break, here are five holiday experiences that you should definitely make time for:

Corfu, Greece
Corfu, Greece by Michael Gleave

Mon Repos

Until 1967, this beautiful villa was used as the summer residence of the Greek Royal family. In its time it has seen many royal births from Princess Alexia of Greece and Denmark, to most notably Prince Phillip, husband of the Queen of England. Although it lay derelict after the monarchy ended it was restored in the early 1990s and now contains an archaeological museum. However while exploring the ancient artefacts associated with Corfu can be enthralling, it’s the glimpse into how the other half live that makes this place a true highlight. Look out for the secret beach and the beautifully manicured gardens.

Albania

Just two miles away from Corfu, Albania is a whole other country just waiting to be explored. You can catch the ferry from Corfu Town and surprise your friends and family by sending them a postcard from the former communist state. The boat docks in the pretty seaside resort of Saranda, where you can enjoy a traditional lunch before moving onto the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Butrint. The former Roman town has many remains from a classic amphitheatre to a pharmacy and temple.

Glacial lake, Valbona National Park, Albania
Glacial lake, Valbona National Park, Albania by Les Haines

Sidari Water Park Fun Park

Kids take to water parks like ducks to, well, water! In fact if you’re bringing the little ones along we’re prepared to bet good money that it will be their holiday highlight. The slides are free if you choose to stay in the Water Park Hotel; otherwise a small entrance fee will cover your time here. Whizzing down the flumes in to an ice cool pool is one way to stay hydrated on your holidays. The park also contains a children’s play area and table football and hockey games for those that want to stay above water.

Sampling Sofrito

Greece is famous for its food and Corfu has some of the best. While staying on the island be sure to check out the classic dish of sofrito. Some claim that this dish was influenced by the Venetian settlers who first arrived on the island – although the dish which consists of beef cooked in wine with garlic and parsley is too many people’s minds classically Greek. Try it home-cooked in a traditional tavern.

Mouse Island, Corfu, Greece
Mouse Island, Corfu, Greece by Christine und Hagen Graf

Mouse Island

This trademark of Corfu was supposedly formed when the ship that had taken Odysseus back to Ithaca was turned to stone by Poseidon. Whether you believe the myth or not, the legend makes it one of the most magical places to visit. More recently the island was a location for the James Bond movie, For Your Eyes Only. However the island can get crowded particularly during the summer months and is best viewed from the nearby Royal Hotel with a glass of Ouzo in hand. Shaken not stirred.

Emily Collins often travels to Greece and she recommends booking packages with Purple Travel.

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5 Great Outdoor Activities in Greece https://europeexplored.com/2013/07/01/5-great-outdoor-activities-in-greece/ https://europeexplored.com/2013/07/01/5-great-outdoor-activities-in-greece/#comments Mon, 01 Jul 2013 11:32:09 +0000 Claire https://europeexplored.com/?p=15077 When most people think of holidaying in Greece, they picture a lazy seven days spent on a sun lounger overlooking the Mediterranean, or beside a swimming pool. Perhaps, if feeling particularly adventurous, they might consider hiring a quad bike or scooter to go on a quick tour of the town, or taking a boat trip […]

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When most people think of holidaying in Greece, they picture a lazy seven days spent on a sun lounger overlooking the Mediterranean, or beside a swimming pool. Perhaps, if feeling particularly adventurous, they might consider hiring a quad bike or scooter to go on a quick tour of the town, or taking a boat trip to a secluded beach. But Greece has so much more to offer! Here are five exciting, outdoors activities that you could give your Greek holiday a little added adventure!

Greece
Greece by timea

1) Snorkelling/Scuba Diving

There isn’t any one location we’d recommend for this. The Mediterranean is particularly shallow around the Greek islands, and rich in salt, making it particularly suitable for snorkelling. What’s more, the sea life in this part of the world is simply incredible. Snorkel in water that comes up to your waist, and you’re still guaranteed to see many bright and beautiful fish.

If you’re feeling more adventurous you could try scuba diving. As well as stunning subaquatic wildlife, the Greek coastline is home to fascinating ruins, from submerged temples dating back to ancient Greece and the Roman Empire, through to more modern day shipwrecks!

2) Visit a Volcano

Many of Greece’s Dodecanese islands, in the eastern Med, and closer to mainland Turkey than Greece, were formed by volcanic eruptions over the fault line between the European and African continental plates. While most of the volcanos are now dormant a handful are active, including Nisyros, an hour’s boat journey from the more tourist-friendly island of Kos. After a hair-raising bus journey into the mountains you can walk down into the caldera itself!

Nisyros - Caldera, Greece
Nisyros – Caldera, Greece by David Llewellyn

3) Rock Climbing

Greece is a beautiful place, but few places are as striking and breath-taking as Meteora, in the north of the country. This craggy landscape of towering rocks and pinnacles is home to a vast complex of Eastern Orthodox Monasteries, and some incredible opportunities for rock climbing. Be aware, though, that much of the rock climbing in Meteora is not for beginners!

Meteora, Greece
Meteora, Greece by Trevor Leyenhorst

4) Walking Tours

If climbing cliff-faces sounds a little white knuckle, perhaps a more gentle mountain walk would be more to your taste. Less than an hour’s drive from the centre of Athens, Mount Parnitha offers a wide range of routes for hiker, walkers and ramblers of all abilities, from beginners to the more advanced! As you might expect, the scenery here is the stuff of picture post cards, so remember to bring your camera!

5) Cherry Picking

If Greece is famous for anything, it’s food. Whether its seafood, olives, honey or feta cheese, a holiday to Greece is never anything less than mouth-watering. Greece’s cherries are, without a doubt, among the sweetest and tastiest grown anywhere in the world, and the Peloponnese region, in the south, is famous for its cherry orchards. Picking cherries makes a great day out for all the family, but if all that sounds like too much hard work, fear not! There’s every chance you’ll get to eat as many cherries as you pick!

Author Bio
David Llewellyn writes about travel and tourism for Life Is Good.

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Nature Walks In Rhodes, Greece https://europeexplored.com/2013/04/17/nature-walks-in-rhodes-greece/ https://europeexplored.com/2013/04/17/nature-walks-in-rhodes-greece/#comments Wed, 17 Apr 2013 08:43:56 +0000 Claire https://europeexplored.com/?p=14520 The Island of Rhodes is absolutely stunning for many reasons, but it seems to be the general consensus that the natural beauty is its strong point. There are many gorgeous beaches, thick blooms of olive trees and several other unique sites to see. Taking a nature walk throughout this region is certain to leave you […]

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The Island of Rhodes is absolutely stunning for many reasons, but it seems to be the general consensus that the natural beauty is its strong point. There are many gorgeous beaches, thick blooms of olive trees and several other unique sites to see. Taking a nature walk throughout this region is certain to leave you with a lasting memory full of joy. It really is hard to describe how beautiful this area is with words, so you certainly should check it out in person. Let’s talk a bit more about why Rhodes is a beautiful place and also why you should consider taking a nature walk through the region.

Petaloúdes, Butterfly Valley, Rhodes, Greece
Petaloúdes, Butterfly Valley, Rhodes, Greece by dancing_triss

The Wonderful Butterfly Valley

One of the most visited areas in Rhodes is the beautiful Butterfly Valley. It’s a natural park that is situated deep within the gorgeous forest where the wonderful Panaxia butterflies are scattered about. If you visit during August you’ll notice a huge increase in the amount of Panaxia butterflies. This is the prime time of their reproduction. The sight of millions of butterflies fluttering all throughout the region is quite a beautiful sight to see. Anyone who loves butterflies, gorgeous fauna and an all-around good time will appreciate a beautiful stroll through this area.

Rest Areas

During your nature trail you may want to stop and take a rest; you’ll have no shortage of areas to get a bite to eat and relax. There is a restaurant and cafeteria section that will offer you some great options for a memorable lunch.  You can also visit the butterfly museum and learn all about the reproduction cycles and details about the Panaxia butterflies. It’s very important that you do not disturb the butterflies of the region at any time during your trip as they are highly protected by wildlife authorities. You should always be respectful of nature when you’re visiting these types of areas.

Butterfly in Petaloudes (Butterfly Valley), Rhodes, Greece
Butterfly in Petaloudes (Butterfly Valley), Rhodes, Greece by dancing_triss

What to Bring Along

It’s a good idea to bring along a camera as your hiking trail is certain to be filled with many beautiful sights. An evening nature stroll through the park is ideal as it will allow you to snap some of the most beautiful pictures. Using flash is not recommended as it can disturb the butterflies of the region. The rocky terrain can be a bit hard on your feet, so you want to be certain that you have a good set of shoes for the trail.

Author Byline:

Randy Johnson has worked for many hotels in Rhodes Greece and has experience in travel planning.

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Sailing Holidays in Greece https://europeexplored.com/2013/03/16/sailing-holidays-in-greece/ https://europeexplored.com/2013/03/16/sailing-holidays-in-greece/#comments Sat, 16 Mar 2013 11:17:24 +0000 oliver https://europeexplored.com/?p=14187 Do you love going to Greece on holiday? Do you love being on the open water? Then this is the perfect holiday for you. If you are thinking at the moment, but I cannot sail, is this not a problem. Well no, most sailing companies either offer skippers to sail your boat or as long […]

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Do you love going to Greece on holiday? Do you love being on the open water? Then this is the perfect holiday for you. If you are thinking at the moment, but I cannot sail, is this not a problem. Well no, most sailing companies either offer skippers to sail your boat or as long as you have the right license’s you can skipper your own boat. It is a great way to see the amazing islands of Greece. Make sure your shipping party has got travel insurance before you set sail with a Group Cover.

The Yacht

There are plenty of companies out there that Yacht yachts to hire. So set sail and explore the wonders of the Greek islands. The number of people in your party will determine the size of the boat you will need to hire. Sailing isn’t a solo activity, unless you really want to, of course. You normally see groups of 2 or more people in the yachts when you pull up into a harbour/ marina. The boat sizes are measured in feet and typically the smallest rentals are 25ft and the largest being around 60 feet. A 50ft or larger boat tend to be able to sleep 6-10 people on board.

Yacht, Greece - 1
Yacht, Greece / Photo by Oliver

Greece

What can be said about the Greek islands that hasn’t been said before! You have the beautiful islands and the amazing history. Well, have you ever sailed into the islands harbours? Seen the dolphins lapping up the boats waves, or smelt the sulphuric acid around some of the Greece’s active volcanoes from a few miles away (honestly it’s not pretty smell, imagine the smell of rotten eggs.) But it’s unique and a talking point for years to come, I first experienced it at the age of 8 and I can still remember it today. It is also a great way of finding some of the Greeks hidden beaches and bays that you wouldn’t see if you just stayed in the islands towns.

Yacht, Greece - 2
Yacht, Greece / Photo by Oliver

Nightlife

As you will be mooring your yacht in the marina or docks of the island you are fantastically located in the heart of the town. You are spitting distance from some of the most amazing restaurants with fresh fish caught in the neighbouring waters. Always a good choice in the restaurants is the catch of the day on the menu. Then after dinner you can retire back to your boat if you want or go to one of the local bars and have a couple of Ouzo’s. For family’s it is very easy to keep your children entertain, if they are like me when I was a child then they will be fascinated by all the fish in the marina. So get them a fishing rod/crab line/ or net and let them go crazy. Make sure they don’t go in the water as it is often very dirty in the docks. Also you can always prepare and cook your own meals on the boat to make it a cheaper holiday.

Greece
Greece / Photo by Oliver

Social Side

It is very easy to make friends with other people while sailing around the islands. Other sailors tend to be very friendly and more than willing to lend a helping hand if you need advice on what islands to visit next. Additionally you can always join up with a flotilla at the start of the holiday. A flotilla is a fleet of sailing yachts that sail from one island to another together, you can go by any route you want to get there by as long as you end up at the same port. Flotillas are great fun and you have a great time eating with the other members of the flotilla. Flotilla are great for children and adults, there tends to be children of all ages in a flotilla so it is easy for them to become friends, and for adults it’s a great way to lessen the burden of trying to keep the children occupied and enjoy some social life as well.

About Author: Oliver Smith lives in Beijing, China and is an active travel advisor writing for Cover-More, a Sydney, Australia headquartered travel insurance company operating in Australasia and the UK. Oliver is a keen sailor that has sailed extensively around the world.

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A Traveller’s Guide To Mykonos Island | Greece https://europeexplored.com/2013/02/04/a-travellers-guide-to-mykonos-island-greece/ https://europeexplored.com/2013/02/04/a-travellers-guide-to-mykonos-island-greece/#comments Mon, 04 Feb 2013 11:30:10 +0000 Claire https://europeexplored.com/?p=13595 Getting around on Mykonos is not that difficult as at only around 15km in length and 10km in width, it is far from being a large island; in fact it is one of the smallest of the Cyclades islands. As with any holiday, getting from the hotel to the airports is the first challenge. The […]

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Getting around on Mykonos is not that difficult as at only around 15km in length and 10km in width, it is far from being a large island; in fact it is one of the smallest of the Cyclades islands. As with any holiday, getting from the hotel to the airports is the first challenge. The easiest way to do it is to plan ahead, most hotels will offer a shuttle which is well worth having as taxies are not that easy to find, especially at high season (July and August). If you arrive at a quiet time or are lucky enough to get a taxi fast, they are relatively cheap though some do charge a little extra for luggage.

Mykonos, Greece
Mykonos, Greece by Richard Martin

Catching the Bus

During the busiest times a bus runs from the airport to Fabrika, one of the two bus stations in Mykonos Town (otherwise known as Chora). Like the taxis, the busses are good value for money if one is already there but as they are very infrequent, this is unlikely.

For travelling around the island itself, the busses are a little better and more frequent. Fabrica bus station has busses going to Platys Gialos, Paraga, Paradise, Ornos and Agios Ioannis, most with one or two busses departing every hour. In the evening, there are hourly departures to Platys Gialos and Paradise, from which much of the south side of the island is accessible.

The Northern bus station on Mykonos situated near the old port has departures for Ano Mera, Elia (departing at 11AM, noon, 2PM, 4PM, 6PM and 7PM, returning 30 minutes later) and Kalafatis. If you need to get from one bus station to the other, it requires a short walk across the town.

If you intend to purchase your ticket directly from the bus driver, be warned you will need the exact change ready however you can also buy a ticket prior to boarding from a ticket vending machine, special kiosks, mini markets and many other shops around Chora. If you find yourself without the change needed while on the bus, don’t be tempted to try to sneak on as tickets are checked regularly.

Hiring a car or Scooter

While the public transport on Mykonos is great for getting to and around the southern beaches, it is not so good when it comes to discovering the rest of the island. The east, west and northern beaches are generally less populated as a result which is one good reason to want to visit them.

There are many little spots and hidden beaches that are great to explore and some of which have nearby small, local restaurants and taverns that offer a change from the usual tourist scene. To do this, it is best to hire a car or a scooter for one or more days to enable you to get around more freely. There are a number of rental agencies available, most of whom are located either near Fabrika Bus Station or behind the Archaeological Museum.

This article is a contribution of Hotel Palladium, a boutique hotel mykonos.

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Top 5 Things to Do When You Travel to Rhodos | Greece https://europeexplored.com/2012/12/18/top-5-things-to-do-when-you-travel-to-rhodos-greece/ https://europeexplored.com/2012/12/18/top-5-things-to-do-when-you-travel-to-rhodos-greece/#comments Tue, 18 Dec 2012 14:30:09 +0000 Claire https://europeexplored.com/?p=12544 Rhodos or Rhodes is a Greek island that sits in the Aegean Sea a little way off the southeast coast of Turkey. It is an incredibly popular tourist destination as many travellers choose it as a perfect place to holiday every year. There are some lovely beaches and the weather is generally hot throughout summer […]

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Rhodos or Rhodes is a Greek island that sits in the Aegean Sea a little way off the southeast coast of Turkey. It is an incredibly popular tourist destination as many travellers choose it as a perfect place to holiday every year. There are some lovely beaches and the weather is generally hot throughout summer months. So when you travel to Rhodos you are going to have a good time, especially if you know what to see.

Lindos beach, Rhodos, Greece
Lindos beach, Rhodos, Greece by Ana Raquel S. Hernandes

1. When we go on our summer vacation we want to spend some time relaxing on a beach. The problem is that everybody else has the same idea and the best beaches are usually crammed to the breaking point. Well, when you travel to Rhodos, try to take a trip to Ladiko Bay as it rarely gets overcrowded. Also known as Anthony Quinn Bay this is a great place to swim, snorkel and relax by the sea. You probably will not be the only people on the sand but there will not be the crowds found in other places.

2. If you hire a car, then you want to explore the island. So travel up into the mountains to Petaloudes. This is known as the valley of the Butterflies because there are lots of them about. The admission fee into the park is pretty reasonable and the drive up to it is worth it alone. The air is cooler up here which is sometimes a relief in the warmer months and you can enjoy the beautiful walks along the trails, where butterflies and moths flutter around you.

3. When you visit Rhodos town you will want to see the old section. Start your tour at the Avenue of the Knights where the protectors of the city used to live. The cobblestone road is over half a kilometre long and surrounded by spectacular foreboding buildings that are made from golden stone. The history and culture of the area can be felt in the atmosphere although many of the original inns are now offices.

4. Whilst you are in Rhodes Town you have to see some ruins so make your way to the Acropolis of Rhodes. This is where the ancient town used to be sited and it is on top of a hill so the views are spectacular. From here you can enter the Temple of Pythian Apollo, which has seen some reconstruction work and is truly outstanding. When you travel to Rhodos you are never far away from history and that makes the trip an absolute must.

5. Alright, there might be plenty to do already, but if you are still looking for more, then you will have to visit The Red Lion pub in Rhodes Town. This might not seem like one of the best places to see on the island but for those that like to learn about where they have travelled to, it is a very useful place to be. The pub is loosely based on the English Pub theme and the atmosphere is relaxed and easy going. The best bit is the owners Ron and Vasilis as they know everything there is to know about the island. Buy a drink and tap their knowledge and you will find all the information you need to make your stay a great one.

So when you travel to Rhodos (Interesting information for you could be that the Danish term is rejser to Rhodos) try not to spend all day on the beach and get out and see some sights. It really will make your holiday a much better experience.

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Yachtcharter-griechenland and the world of Grecian magic and adventure https://europeexplored.com/2012/12/10/yachtcharter-griechenland-and-the-world-of-grecian-magic-and-adventure/ https://europeexplored.com/2012/12/10/yachtcharter-griechenland-and-the-world-of-grecian-magic-and-adventure/#comments Mon, 10 Dec 2012 21:54:37 +0000 Claire https://europeexplored.com/?p=12496 Greece is studded like a gem on the Mediterranean Sea, being blessed with numerous lakes, waterways and water masses; Greece has turned out to become one of the most sought after locations for vacations. Greece and Croatia are renowned over the globe for their exuberance in terms of natural bounty. Greece has been a favorite […]

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Greece is studded like a gem on the Mediterranean Sea, being blessed with numerous lakes, waterways and water masses; Greece has turned out to become one of the most sought after locations for vacations. Greece and Croatia are renowned over the globe for their exuberance in terms of natural bounty. Greece has been a favorite for destination weddings or even romantic getaways; thanks to its magical environment and its breath-taking flora. There is absolutely nothing more gracious and pleasing than playing in the lap of nature and witnessing the beauty Greece has to offer through yacht trips.

Yachtcharter Griechenland
Photo by yachtcharter-griechenland.de

The beauty and elegance of the yacht

Yachtcharter-griechenland is a renowned establishment in Greece. To experience all the ethereal beauty and the serenity, you must get to these guys. Their workmanship and their amazing sense of customer support and interaction will keep you mesmerized. The yachts that are employed for such tours are as huge as 65 ft. You will be ensured full views of all of the beautiful natural structures, caves, waterfalls, lakes and gardens in and around this amazing country. Greece is known for its beautiful lakes and waterways. Here at this amazing establishment you will be given the benefit of experiencing the blue sea in all its glory. If you think that the scenery will be enough to engulf you then wait till you move around and experience the interiors of the ship. The ship is tastefully decorated with serene interiors that will appeal to your mind. Many of the yachts even have the facility of an indoor pool. Therefore it is guaranteed that you will receive ultimate peace and rejuvenation both from the environment and from your yacht.

The unmatched standards of beauty

Yachtcharter-griechenland will surely give you the most majestic tour on planet earth because of the years of experience that they have. The staff here is extremely friendly and is known for their warm and hearty behavior to the guests. The yachts are both elegant and well-built. The yachts have plenty of room space for every passenger and are extremely delightful in every form possible. They can accommodate a large number of passengers too. However if you want to travel and tour around in a tinier group, they will make it possible for you. There are several attractive discount options that pertain to a smaller fleet of travelers as well. They have everything sorted out really well. The entire journey has lunches and dinners included. So your will enjoy the beauty and serenity of the seas, natural beauty the wonders and enjoy your gastronomically delightful dishes.

You may think that your Grecian fantasy tour will cost you a fortune but you can be rest assured that your trip will be planned at a much optimized rate. So you can experience the amazement of the Aegean and also get the best deals possible. Each day spent is like a day spent in fantasy land. Your Greek fantasy can be finalized by some mouse clicks, dreams can be fulfilled that simply.

Mike is a freelance writer who writes on different topics such as travel, holiday and nature. He holds bachelor’s degree in electronics. His famous articles includes article on Yachtcharter Griechenland. He loves to travel and make new friends.

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Mini Guide to the Peloponnese, Greece https://europeexplored.com/2012/09/27/mini-guide-to-the-peloponnese-greece/ https://europeexplored.com/2012/09/27/mini-guide-to-the-peloponnese-greece/#comments Thu, 27 Sep 2012 12:47:18 +0000 Claire https://europeexplored.com/?p=11596 If you are well-versed with your Greek mythology, then you should know the Peloponnese. Located in Southern Greece, this landscape is where the Greek gods and heroes graced their presence with in its historical cities. Today, it is very popular among tourists and backpackers with its beautiful beaches and glorious mountains. Nafplio, Greece by Jeanhousen […]

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If you are well-versed with your Greek mythology, then you should know the Peloponnese. Located in Southern Greece, this landscape is where the Greek gods and heroes graced their presence with in its historical cities. Today, it is very popular among tourists and backpackers with its beautiful beaches and glorious mountains.

Nafplio, Greece
Nafplio, Greece by Jeanhousen

What to See

  • Mystras. This once majestic fortress town, after experiencing a spill from the Taÿgetos Mountains is now home of Byzantine palaces and churches in ruins. Today, this Unesco World Heritage Site deemed as one of the most important sites in the region.
  • Nafplio. This is a beautiful port that is made of Venetian houses and narrow streets. It is also home of the Alexandros Soutzos Museum which features 1821 Greek War of Independence exhibits.
  • Stemnitsa. This village is the starting site for the walks to the Lousios Gorge. Walks of various lengths start in this place, ranging from hour-long to day-long.
  • Epidavros. This region is very popular for its miraculous cures. It also hosts theater and drama performances during July and August.
  • Olympia. This region is home to a number of museums such as the Archaeological Museum of Olympia which features a statue of Hermes made by Praxiteles.

Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidaurus, Greece
Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidaurus, Greece by Fingalo

Where to Eat and Drink

  • I Stemnitsa. This is a tavern open year-round in the village. Its tables lie under big umbrellas with a tasty Greek menu to boot. Their dishes are made up of generous and quality meat cuts.
  • Restaurant Elysse. Its hearty cooking is what makes this a favorite in Sparta. It menu has Lakonian specialties, right from the south-central region. One fine example is the bardouniotiko, a chicken recipe with feta and onions.
  • Omorfi Poli. This restaurant serves traditional dishes with their own original twists. They also have wine selections produced locally.
  • Fishermen’s Tavern. Located in a seaside village, this restaurant is run by a family of fishermen, serving dishes featuring whatever was caught for the day. The most common ones include mullet, beam, and sardines.
  • Hotel Kyrimai. Situated in the Gerolimenas harbor, this restaurant has a tasty menu. One of their highlights is the shrimp stuffed zucchini with saffron.

Where to Sleep

  • Camping Diana. Right in the center of Olympia, this hotel is open all year and features a mini market, pool, friendly staff, and internet access.
  • Hotel Marianna. This is one of Nafplio’s finest. Its rooms have terraces with traditional bedsteads and stone walls. It provides its guests with hearty breakfast meals.
  • Mpelleiko. This is a stone house that dates back in the 17th century. Its rooms feature original Greek furnishings with large fireplaces. They also serve breakfast made from homemade produce.
  • Ippoliti. This is a hotel that offers luxurious accommodations. The building features a grand staircase that lead to beautifully decorated rooms. It also has a gym and a small pool.
  • Patra’s Primarolia Art Hotel. This hotel offers rooms with varying themes and styles, from baroque to minimalist. It also has an in-house sauna.

Resource Box:

Amy C. loves travelling to various cities and regions, particularly in the areas of the Mediterranean and the Pacific. She also performs office administration and blogging activities of World Climate, who also offers agent listing online. Want to know where she will take you next? Stay tuned for her next post.

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