We explored the Greek Islands for two weeks. This was our daughter Karina’s graduation trip. Our family, hands down, chose Alkyoni Beach Hotel on the island of Naxos as our favorite for the combination of location?- only small grassy sand dunes separating us from the beach, short walk to town?- amenities, fabulous food,Louis Vuitton Wallets, bar, and very friendly staff. We all liked it for different reasons, and were sad as soon as we left.
Check out the cave of Antiparos, first discovered around 600 B. C. In modern times, the French ambassador to Constantinople held a Christmas Mass there for 500, complete with fireworks in 1673. (Not sure fireworks are a good idea in a cave.)
On the island of Naxos, we discovered an old monastery, Ag. Minas, with an eccentric caretaker. The place was partially in ruins, but he invited us to come back and stay. He was quite the character.
On the island of Santorini,Mulberry Handbags, we explored Ancient Thira, the remains of an old town about 3,000 years old. It was high up on a mountain and so windy, we had to hold on to whatever we could find not to blow away. The sensation was the same as jumping out of an airplane. The views were incredible. We were so high that airplanes were flying beneath us.
And another thing: I know it’s popular to go island-hopping in Greece, but with four people, the uncertainty and sleeping on ferry decks was not an option. We went through a Greek travel agent that booked our hotels and ferries and transfers, and we still had the freedom to plan our own itinerary on each island. My best tip is, turn down that side road when you see a “point of interest”,gucci replica bags; sign. We had our best adventures that way.
Best eats: Taverna Akrogiali, in the small town of Ag. Georgio on Antiparos?- right on the water, away from the crowds. String of octopus drying out front. Fresh, grilled sardines,replica sunglass, straight from the sea. Greek salad with delicious homemade goat cheese. Amazing light, thin French fried zucchini sticks.
Jackie Burrell, Contra Costa Times; excerpts, edited by Greece Travel Blog