Greece is the way we are feeling
This Mediterranean country has been ranked one of the 20 safest destinations in the world for 2019. If you’re planning a visit, these five picturesque islands will sweep you off your feet
SAFETY has become an important tick box for travellers. In fact, they are more conscious than ever of where they plant their feet.
In the 29th annual MMGY Travel Intelligence report: The 2019 Portrait of American Travelers survey, safety was found to be the deciding factor for people – in particular, millennials – ahead of them choosing which destination to visit. This was closely linked to the cost factor.
But all is not doom and gloom as there are places where tourists can let their hair down and enjoy peace of mind at the same time.
Greece is once such destination according to the findings of IPK International, which, through its World Travel Monitor, has the world’s most comprehensive tourism database on European, Arabian, Asian and North and South American outbound travel behaviour.
SANTORINI
This is one of its most famous and beautiful islands. And it’s the perfect romantic getaway with its whitewashed buildings, blue-dome rooftops and cobbled lanes.
There’s plenty to see and do such as take a boat to Nea Kameni, in the centre of the famous Caldera, where you can walk around the volcano or dive into the warm springs. Or you can hire a helicopter and get an aerial view of the volcanoes, which became active 1.5 million years ago.
The sunsets from Oia, a coastal town on the north-western tip of Santorini, is recommended. There are plenty of visitor-friendly wineries and ancient ruins to explore.
And eating at a taverna – a small restaurant serving authentic Greek food – is a must. While it does have the most luxurious hotels and villas, there are budget-friendly hotels and B&B’S to chose from.
The best time to visit:
Between late April and early November is when the weather is warm and there is little rain.
If you don’t mind the heat and you’re in the mood to party and chill at the beach, then be sure to book between June to September.
CRETE
This is the Mediterranean’s fifthlargest island and a feast for the senses. Tourists can enjoy everything from exploring and chilling to trekking. If history piques your interest, Knossos is worth a visit. This palace was built around 3 000 years ago and suffered repeat catastrophes from invasions to earthquakes.
Also check out the Heraklion
MYKONOS
While this is party-central for tourists, it can also be familyfriendly. But let’s get back to the party aspect. The dance clubs attract world-renowned DJS. One of the iconic landmarks is a row of 16th-century windmills. For those wanting to venture out, the Archaeological site of Delos, which is known as the birthplace of Apollo (god of music and truth) should be on your list of things to see.
Drop by Little Venice for a bite to eat at one of the cafés and restaurants. While soaking up your surroundings, keep an eye out for another attraction – the Mykonos pelicans. Matoyianni Street is perfect (albeit shady) to get designer clothing, jewellery and keepsakes. The Church of Paraportiani and Castle Panigirakis, a historical building which is a hotel and event venue, will make your Instagram pop.
The best time to visit:
The tourist season starts in April and runs until the end of October. Be mindful, though; prices are higher at these times. In September to October, the island is more mellow and the beach is warm. Archaeological Museum, which has the biggest collection of Minoan artefacts.
But if you’re into sipping cocktails and working on your tan, Elafonisi Beach, which has been touted as one of the best in the world, fits the bill.
For the adrenalin junkie, Samaria Gorge will blow you away.
The 16km hike starts at a viewing platform at the bottom of a
ZAKYNTHOS
This is a Greek island in the Ionian Sea and a popular summer resort with several beaches: Agios Nikolaos, Alykanas and Tsilivi. Navagio beach, aka Shipwrecked beach, is accessible by boat.
Whether you’re taking a swim or participating in one of the many water sports, you will get lost in the postcard beauty of the place. Also, you can get a chance to see the endangered Caretta Caretta (aka loggerhead) sea turtles up close. In fact, Zakynthos Marine Park is worth exploring.
If you have an adventurous palate, be sure to try the Zakynthosinspired stuffed rabbit, papatoli (veal shank) and sofigadoura (a Zakynthos take on beef stew in tomato sauce). It pairs beautifully with the Venetianinfluenced, Verdea (a traditional multivarietal white wine).
The best time to visit:
Either from March to May or September to early December. The weather is perfect for sightseeing. Also, you won’t be blinded by the sunlight. meandering path with wooden steps.
“Unforgettable” is how most have described the experience. Of course, there’s plenty more on offer.
The best time to visit:
If you’re on a budget, April, May and October are the months you should look at. Hotels are cheaper and the weather is good, although temperatures in October can vary. Peak season is from July to early September.
NAXOS
This is the biggest and the greenest island in the Cyclades. Blessed with imposing mountains, lush greenery and stunning sea views, Naxos is home to the the most striking old churches, monasteries and Venetian castles harmoniously nestled into the Cycladic architecture of the place. You’ll find olives, potatoes and citrus fruit growing on its fertile hills.
A must-see is Portara, an eyecatching landmark for the whole island. The 6m by 3.5m structure is what’s been left of a portal to a temple of Apollo, which was started in the 6th century but never completed.
For the wandering traveller, the Old Town Naxos is the perfect maze of distraction with its confusing stairways and passages. Another marvel on this island is the Kouros of Apollonas, an incomplete 10m-high statue. The nude sculpture of a man has inspired many theories for its unfinished state.
The best time to visit:
Given the humidity, temperatures are enjoyable throughout the year. The warmest months are from June to August. A more budget-friendly time to visit would be in October.