#Family Car Rental Athens Greece

[arisilia]

Website : https://www.arisilia.com

Address : Faros Armenistis, Mykonos, Greece

Villa Arisilia, located in Mykonos, Greece, offers a luxurious getaway experience. The villa's design harmoniously blends stone, beach cobbles, and wood with the blue tones of the sea and sky, and the dazzling white of Cycladic architecture. It features an infinity pool with breathtaking sunset views, comfortable accommodation for up to six people, and is situated near the famous lighthouse. The villa provides a unique vantage point for enjoying the Aegean Sea, with services designed to make stays effortless, including car rentals and special meal arrangements.

Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063641555589

Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/villa_arisiliamykonos

Airbnb : https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/31344309

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[redathensrentacar]

Exploring Athens with Ease: Car Rental Services in the Heart of Greece

Athens, the ancient and vibrant capital of Greece, is a city that beckons travelers with its rich history, stunning architecture, and bustling urban life. While public transportation in Athens is extensive, car rental services in the city provide a level of convenience and freedom that allows you to explore this captivating destination at your own pace. In this blog, we'll delve into the advantages of using car rental services in Athens to enhance your travel experience.

1. Convenience of Exploring Beyond the City Limits

While Athens boasts a wealth of attractions, Greece's treasures extend far beyond the city's borders. Renting a car in Athens grants you the freedom to venture into the surrounding countryside, visit picturesque coastal towns, or explore ancient archaeological sites with ease. The flexibility to create your itinerary adds a new dimension to your Greek adventure.

2. Flexibility in Your Itinerary

With car rental services in Athens, you can design your own itinerary without being bound by public transport schedules. Whether you want to visit the iconic Acropolis, meander through charming neighborhoods, or embark on a day trip to the historic city of Delphi, having a rental car allows you to tailor your journey to your preferences.

3. Access to Remote and Scenic Locations

Greece is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, from the mountainous terrain of Meteora to the idyllic beaches of the Greek islands. A rental car opens up opportunities to explore these remote and scenic destinations, where public transportation may be limited or less convenient.

4. Time Efficiency

Car rentals in Athens save you valuable time during your travels. You won't need to wait for buses or rely on crowded metro lines. Instead, you can maximize your time by getting to your chosen destinations efficiently, leaving you with more time to savor the sights and experiences.

5. Privacy and Comfort

Having your vehicle ensures privacy and comfort throughout your journey. You can enjoy air-conditioning on hot summer days, listen to your favorite music, and take breaks whenever you please, making your explorations of Athens and its surroundings even more enjoyable.

6. Affordable Options

Car rental services in Athens offer various vehicle categories to suit different budgets and group sizes. You can find economical options for solo travelers or spacious vehicles for families and larger groups, ensuring that there's a rental car to fit your needs and budget.

In conclusion, car rentals services in Athens provide an exceptional opportunity to enhance your travel experience in this historically rich and culturally diverse city. The flexibility, convenience, and freedom they offer allow you to explore Athens and its surrounding areas with ease and comfort. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply someone seeking the freedom to explore, renting a car in Athens can transform your Greek adventure into an unforgettable journey filled with discovery and wonder.

[redathensrenta]

Car Rental Services Greece

Many think that planning a trip within a strict budget is not possible. Many believe that comfort and privacy must be sacrificed in order to have a trip that is well budgeted. Well, this is not the case especially if you take the time in careful planning. The first thing that you should do is to determine how much money you are willing to spend for Car Rental Services Greece.

Email id:  info@red-athens-rentacar.com

[reddit-aita]

AITA for being pissed at my parents for taking us to Athens Georgia instead of Athens Greece?

I'm 17f always wanted to go to Greece. I love Greece so much to the point where I taught myself how to speak Greek, both standard and Cypriot and I can read Ancient Greek. I've read the Iliad, Odyssey and many other of Homer's books in Ancient Greek and I watch TV, sports, movies and play video games in Greek and I got online Greek friends who I do it with in Greek. Ive got Greek friends in Athens, Thessaloniki and Lanarca that I want to meet so that's why I was so excited when my parents said they would take us on a family vacation to Athens. This would be the first time I would leave the country and go on a plane.

This happened during an amazing party but if it was during the only time we could go to Greece I would do it, my friends understood. I made a plan of everything I wanted to see in Greece, Meteora, Olympiakos stadium, Acropolis, Plaka, among other things all over Athens and if we had time perhaps Thessaloniki, Sparta, or some other cities. I also made it a priority to go check out Universities in Greece as thats where I want to go.I showed my parents this and they were like yeah sure you can do that we don't care.

trip is in february. We fly to Atlanta, i assumed it was a layover. We land and my parents said we need to get to the hotel and need a rental car. Weird but whatever wasn't paying attention

Well we drive for an hour or so and i fall asleep in the car and then we get to Athens Georgia and my parents say "hey we're here, wake up sleepy head" and I see a sign that says welcome to Athens Georgia. My sister starts laughing her ass off and my dad starts giggling. I asked them if this was a joke and they said no that we're going on vacation to Athens Georgia, to my dad's friend's lake house.

I have never been more angry in my entire life. We were at a gas station and I argued with my parents. They told me I was a disrespectful brat and that I should be thankful they're taking us on vacation. They said they can't afford to take me to Europe and this is the best thing they could do. I told they're pieces of shit because i missed my friends birthday party for this boring ass trip in the middle of nowhere in Georgia and this was like some fucked up joke that everyone knew about but me. My parents of course keep screaming at me saying I'm a disrespectful brat and I told them to go fuck themselves and I elbowed the car window in my angry several times breaking it but cutting myself.

I ran on a bus going to Atlanta, parents are telling me to come back. I told them to fuck off and I called my friend who used to go to my school but goes to University in Atlana. He picked me up and I've been at his place with his gf since school got cancelled in missouri not soon after. My parents went from being furious to being worried and are begging me to come back. I told them to fuck off.

[feelingfolegandros]

Day 1 - Tuesday, October 27 2020

Hello out there,

A friend I met here in Folegandros in September suggested I start a blog over the winter since I decided to stay. So here we are. Why not? Hi Paul! 

For those who aren’t aware (I wasn’t until about 3 months ago), Folegandros is a small island in Greece, part of the Cyclades. I first visited in mid-August and fell in love with it. 

I was initially there for a couple of weeks, then went to meet my friend B.W. in Palermo to celebrate her birthday, then returned for a few weeks in mid-September to early October, went back to Berlin for 2.5 weeks where I’ve been living for the past 5 years to purge myself of the vast majority of my possessions, my apartment, etc and returned just yesterday, technically, although it was very late Monday night. 

Our ferry (I say our because B.W., not just a friend but my best friend, is joining me for the winter) was scheduled to arrive at 00h35 but arrived nearly an hour late. We had left Athens at 14h55. 

To get here, there are a few ferry options which become increasingly sporadic as tourist season dwindles. There are typically two main options that I refer to as the “fast” and “slow” ferries. I don’t feel like explaining them now.

But okay, I guess I will elaborate. The slow ferry is quite slow… It takes just under 10 hours to get to Folegandros from Athens, with four or five stops at other islands on the way. B.W. wasn’t thrilled with the idea but I have resolved to never ever take the fast ferry again because not only is it more expensive, it also tends to be a heck of a lot more nauseating. 

With the “fast” ferry, we’re talking a journey of approximately 4.5 hours on the open sea without being able to get any fresh air for the entire duration. If the wind and therefore the waves are wild, you might vomit. At one point, on a journey from Folegandros to Athens last month, I was sitting on the ground, hunched over my open suitcase, just trying to keep it together. I think this was after I darted to the tiny airplane bathroom-sized facilities where shortly after I started vomitting, a man (I think) in the stall next to me also started vomitting. A beautiful vomit symphony. 

Okay, enough with the ferries, although it is the only way to get to the island, unless you’ve got access to a private boat or helicopter. 

We arrived early Tuesday morning (Day 1) at something like 1:30am, when the boat was scheduled to arrive at 00h35. For the last part of the journey, I went outside to the front of the boat and revelled in each second it crawled along the long North side of the island, peering out at the lights and thinking about my favourite people and places that I would soon return to. Drinking the air and the salt and the darkness and the mystery of the almost-full moon.

My boyfriend Z.X. picked us up from the port in his car. We met at a wedding a few weeks before. More on that later... He drove us to our house, our beautiful rental abode for the winter just outside the island’s main town, Chora. B.W. and I settled into our respective rooms, with Z.X. naturally joining me for the evening in mine.

In the proper morning, after a bit of sleep, we made some breakfast, and later picked up some things we needed for the house. In the afternoon, Z.X. drove us to Agali beach. The taverna was still open, although everything else was closed. I said hello to the man who owns one of the cafés (who by the way, is an extremely talented DJ...therefore his café consistently has the best music on the island) as he diligently cleaned what looked like a drying rack for dishes. When I went for a swim in the sea, I noticed two men dismantling the sign for a hotel… a sign of the times.. The end of the season. Time for winter. 

Definitely cooler than it was in early October, B.W. and I were still thrilled to be able to embrace the sea. We both feel very connected to the beach in general, to nature, to stillness, to relative simplicity in life. We bonded over our love of Greece, among other things, although she has a longer-term relationship with the nation. In fact, B.W. 

spent some of last winter on Santorini, which is very close to Folegandros. She had been quietly manifesting an opportunity to spend four months of this winter in Greece, and here we are. We met online in March at the start of this whole Covid thing and became closer just this summer. We consider each other sisters, basically. Cosmically, karmically bonded whether we like it or not! (We like it!) 

After Agali, after taking our turns walking along the shoreline together, separately…. Dancing, scooping up the sand, lying on my big purple psychedelic beach blanket I bought while in Palermo, laughing, counting our blessings, we headed to Ano Meria to watch the sunset. Ano Meria is the other town on the island. Z.X. lives and works there, and I have a dear friend, a true Folegandriti born and raised on the island, who also lives there with her family. Z.X. took us to a spot, according to him a former lookout point for the Italian army. We went inside the tiny stone structure, now largely filled with hay, and I carefully climbed up a tiny ladder out the window onto a rock. It was sublime. Life here in general is sublime, in my humble opinion. 

We drove back to the house, with Z.X. stopping now and then to speak to locals he recognized. It’s interesting, he’s Greek but not from Folegandros, and only moved here in September. So we’re both new to the island, making our own friends, figuring out our lives here separately and sort of together. After showering we headed into Chora to get something to eat. By this point, I was already verging on hanger (hunger + anger). I opted to take a quick lap around the village to get a few moments of alone time. Z.X. and B.W. settled on Souvlaki Club, one of the few places still open on the island. B.W. has some dietary restrictions, so there were only a couple of things she could eat… And Z.X. somehow forgot them in the order. All was okay in the end, and by the time we had all eaten a bit, we were in better spirits, joking about our first dinner together as a family. At least B.W. and I thought it was funny. One thing I am still wrapping my head around is the fact that it’s completely scandalous for someone (me) to order patates (french fries) with ketchup and mayonnaise.... Z.X. explained that the combination, and the fact that it’s too different sauces makes it unhealthy and a bizarre preference. I still don’t get it, but it’s one charming example of the cultural differences between a Greek man and an Italian-Canadian woman that’s been living in Germany for half a decade. We’re learning to compromise. For example, I opted to only have ketchup with my patates to avoid any scandal that evening at Souvlaki Club. The next morning, Z.X. compromised (with my gentle, playful insistence) by cleaning a few dishes in the morning before he left, instead of just leaving them for me. 

Alright, that’s all for Day 1. Let’s see if I can keep the other days more concise….

P.S. I’m going to use initials for everyone I mention in my posts. They will not be anyone’s real initials to protect the privacy of my friends, loved ones, strangers, etc. 

[topfygad]

Corfu island – epitomizes the Magic of the Greek Isles

Corfu Ionian Islands The Greek IslandsApril 16, 2020

The reason Corfu is one of the most beautiful islands in Greece is that it one of the greenest, with dense vegetation. The island is located in the Ionian island group, west of the Greek mainland.

Despite the island attracting a lot of visitors, it has retained its wild beauty, making it perfect for hikes along narrow mountain paths and trails. On these walks, you’ll experience the wondrous nature of the island as well as tiny villages, monasteries, monuments and splendid views of the Ionian Sea. The trails are marked by yellow signs and the walks are most times suitable for kids as well. 

Corfu Island: Just so Much Variety

Much of  Corfu is mountainous. In fact, it was during the Middle Ages that the island had the name Corypho which actually means ‘Place with peaks’. It is thought to have been named after the two peaks of the island’s highest mountain Pantokrator. Most places on the island are visible from the mountain peak. 

The beauty of the island isn’t confined to just one part of the island either, and magnificent resorts are  spread around the island. If you had to choose, you might opt for the north of the island as it is more hilly and there are lots of beautiful little bays. 

You’ll be amazed at the crystal clear water and coves. The island has some  217 kilometers of coast, but if you’re not a beach lover, the interior has plenty to offer as well.

A Mix of Sightseeing, Nightlife and Shopping 

If you want a taste of what Corfu is all about, there are many half- and full-day tours for those who want a taste of the place. Corfu is always a popular destination and you can also hire a minibus with driver and enjoy a magical day of sightseeing. A trip like this could include Aqualand, Achilleion Palace, the view of Mouse Island or the must-see monastery at Paleokastritsa, set on a hill about the beach. 

Achilleion Palace

A trip to the old town to explore the fortress and do some shopping has to be on your to-do list as well. Speaking of shopping, for those who want to make waves in Corfu and don’t mind bending their bank balances, there is a never-ending list of must-see and must-do activities. 

Best Time to Visit Corfu

The beauty of visiting the Greek isles is that they are pretty much all-year-around holiday destinations. However, it also depends on what experience you’re looking for.

The climate on Corfu is generally mild with hot and dry Summers and mild winters. The winter may appeal to those who want to avoid the crowds as this is when the island is extremely quiet. Many of the restaurants and hotels actually close.   

January is the coldest month on the island and July and August are the hottest months with temperatures being capable of soaring to 35°C(95°F), with some days becoming even hotter.  With such high temperatures, you’ll want to be on the beach, but you’ll be sharing the sand with plenty of other beach visitors as July and August are the island’s peak tourist times. 

Everything is expensive in Corfu over this peak holiday time. If you visit out of these peak times you can cut down a great deal on your flight and accommodation costs.

How to get to Corfu

Airplane flying over Mouse Island

It is one of the easiest islands to visit from the UK, with direct flights from many of the airports and all flying to Corfu International Airport. Incidentally, the Kanoni area offers excellent views of the airport and it can be quite entertaining watching the planes taking off and landing. 

There are flights every day and all year from Athens to the airport at Corfu. During the island’s high season, there are also charter flights available from all over Europe. 

Book you taxi in advance 

Private airport pickup can be pre-arranged and this will save you all the hassle. You can Book Your Corfu Airport Taxi – to get you directly from the airport straight to your hotel and they usually have the same price of a taxi or a little bit more. The best thing is that even if your flight is delayed, you’ll have no problem as the driver will be monitoring the flight anyway. You will be met by the driver holding a name sign as soon as you come out at the arrivals with a bottle of water and city map.

To get you into the holiday mood, you can catch one of the open ferries or hydrofoils from various ports such as from Paxi, Brindisi, Trieste, Patras or Igoumenitsa.

Getting Around the Island

If you’re a fitness fanatic, you may want to rent a bike on the island as it’s a great, affordable way to see Corfu. There are quite a few bicycle rentals but the one which comes to mind is Corfu Cycles. 

You can rent one of their bikes or even join one of their cycling tours. When you hire a bike from them you get helmet, lock,     repair kit, bottle holder and a safety vest plus roadside assistance which is included in the price. They will also deliver and pick up your bike if needed. 

Buses are another way to get around. The main bus terminal in Corfu is San Rocco Square. The green buses are long-distance and the blue buses are short-distance. Local blue buses depart from the local bus station in Corfu Old Town. Ticket prices are according to the journey length. Tickets can be bought on the bus. You’ll notice that bus services are somewhat reduced over the weekend.

There is also a Day Ticket which costs roughly 5,50 € and which is valid for a day, offering unlimited rides for all destinations.

Car- and scooter rentals are also available. To hire these transport-modes, you have to be 21 years of age. Both cars and bikes can be delivered to where you are staying. 

Shopping in Corfu:

Shops open for business between 8-9 am to 2:30 pm. They close for siesta time, opening doors again at 5:30 pm until 8:30 – 9:00pm. Most shops are closed on Sunday.

Main town in Corfu:

Corfu Town is the capital of the Greek island of Corfu. The Old Town of Corfu city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is absolutely beautiful and you’ll love the Venetian architecture found alongside the quaint, winding cobblestone streets. Here are some of the highlights which you should definitely put on your list of places to see:

St. Spyridon Church 

The Saint Spyridon Church is one of the most important landmarks on Corfu. Dedicated to the patron saint of the island, Saint Spyridon, it was built in the 1580s and houses his relics. The beautiful single-nave basilica with its imposing bell tower is visible from various parts of Corfu Old Town. 

The Old Fortress of Corfu 

This imposing Venetian fortress is hard to miss. As it dominates the front part of the Corfu Old Town, this massive fortification plays a crucial role in the history of Corfu.

The entrance to the Old Fortress is located just a short walk from Liston Square and to reach the grounds you must cross a small wooden bridge. From here you can enjoy wonderful views of Corfu’s Old Town. There is also a fabulous lighthouse known as the Sea-Town which offers spectacular views. 

Spianada 

This large square in front of the Corfu Old Town set across from the Old Fortress, is one of the largest squares in Greece. Liston which was build by the French is part of the Spianada square and houses numerous cafes and bars.

Cricket matches used to be played on the Esplanade, the only place in Greece where this sport was played.

Museum of Asian Art 

Located right in the heart of Corfu’s Old Town inside the Palace of St. Michael and St. George it is the only museum in Greece  which is dedicated to the art of Asia and features a remarkable collection of Chinese, Japanese and India art among others. In the summer there are several concerts taking place at the outdoor premises of the museum.

The New Fortress of Corfu

The New Fortress is a Venetian fortification built on the hill of St. Mark in Corfu in several stages.The original structure was completed in the 16th century by a military engineer Ferrante Vitelli and is located across from the Old Fortress. What is visible today inside the fortress are works which were built by the British during their ruling in Corfu. 

Mon Repos Palace 

A neoclassical building set at the east side of Paleopolis, which was Corfu’s ancient city. It was built in 1830 by the British Commissioner Sir Frederick Adam right at the beginning of the Kanoni peninsula opposite the ruins of Paleopolis. It is not as glorious as the Achilleion palace yet it overs spectacular sea views extending all the way to the eastern coast of Corfu island. 

  Nightlife in Corfu:

Corfu is one of the most cosmopolitan of the Greek Islands with a vibrant nightlife. The island is geared towards tourism and it presents its visitors and locals with an excellent line-up of trendy restaurants, bars and nightclubs. 

Most of the pubs and bars open early in the morning and remain so past midnight into the early hours of the morning. The nightlife is offered at lots of different venues, from restaurants to disco clubs to lap dance clubs and pool halls.

The most popular night-life destinations are Kavos, Ipsos, Sidari, Dassia, Glyfada and Paleokastritsa. If loud music, dancing and exotic cocktails are your thing, then Corfu won’t disappoint. 

Fun  & Unique Things to Do in Corfu 

Governor Olive Oil

The Dafnis family has revived the olive oil production on Corfu. The family olive grove is located in Agios Mathaios, where three generations have been cultivating the aged Lianolia variety olive trees in the family grove. Producing a high quality, award winning olive oil, the Governor has quickly gained world recognition as one of the premium olive oil brands in the world.

The passion for what they do is evident from the moment you step foot on their family olive grove, and when meeting the Dafnis brothers I was instantly impressed by their dedication, — it is truly inspiring. This is definitely one of the top experiences on Corfu, which you absolutely shouldn’t miss.

Aqualand

Like all resort islands, Corfu offers tourists and locals unlimited activities to enjoy whether you’re single, a couple, a family or a group. Located on the main road, Aqualand is a must. It is equipped with thrilling slides and pools and is surrounded by beautiful green forests. 

There are free sunbeds and umbrellas and lots of restaurants and cafes to keep visitors fed. Qualified lifeguards make sure everyone has a safe, happy time. For all it offers, it is small wonder it’s known as one of the best waterparks in Europe.

Culinary travel

Greek cuisine is so decadently delicious so that many visitors who have tried it want to know more. Food lovers can get the chance to experience fantastic Greek restaurants and learn to cook at the same time. Ambelonas is more than just a restaurant and vineyard. The owner transformed a small artisan food business into a vineyard, restaurant and a venue for light-hearted, casual cooking classes. 

Cooking classes take place outdoors, under the tree arches where you participate as a cook or you can just watch. You’ll learn how to make Zucchini pie and Sofrito cooked with white wine and lots of garlic. The Ambelonas restaurant is rated as one of the best in Corfu. 

You can also attend pasta making classes, visit a vineyard for wine tasting or visit an olive oil farm where high quality olive oils are produced. 

Boat Hire

Did you know that you can hire a boat and cruise around Corfu’s coastline? Check out Agni Boats as they offer a big selection of boats for hire with all the mandatory safety equipment in place.

You can stop over at any of the quiet, beautiful bays and coves along the coast. You get support throughout the rental period and it’s a super, cool way to see some of the island from this fun activity.

Festivals and Markets

Corfu is a vibrant cosmopolitan island and there are always celebrations, festivals, concerts and markets happening. Quite frankly it is beyond the scope of this guide to include all the events planned in Corfu.

Paleokastritsa Monastery

The variety of the island is such that a person needs to spend a year just to get an idea of all that takes place. The Paleokastrítsa’s Varkarola Festival for instance in August commemorates the Ottoman siege of 1716 and there are mock naval battles and plenty of fireworks.

There is also a sardine festival in August as well The Agiotfest soul, rock and folk festival in August. 

Best Beaches on Corfu

Ermones Beach:

This most beautiful beach is found about 18 km west of Corfu. It’s a quiet beach, while being busy enough for those who like to take in everything from behind dark sunglasses.

Water sports lovers will be pleased to know that there is a diving center that operates at the beach as the water is super clear for snorkeling and diving. There are plenty of taverns and cafes along the beach as well as beach umbrellas and deck-chairs to ensure you can spend the entire day at the beach.

Paleokastritsa:

Paleokastritsa Beach is postcard-beautiful with its turquoise sea, golden sands and harbors. Many people go on boat trips to other beaches along the coast. The village of Paleokastritsa offers beachgoers plenty of taverns overlooking the bay. The main beach of Paleokastritsa is attractively small and is thought to be one of the finest beaches in the Greek islands. 

If you’re particularly looking for child-friendly beaches, the west beaches of Glyfada and Pelekas might be worth a visit.

Where to Stay in Corfu

There is no shortage of hotels and other forms of accommodation in Corfu that offer unbelievable value if you find the right one. There are a number of credible tourism partners in Greece that can offer you quality hotel breaks in the Greek isles.

Between the hotels, bed-and-breakfasts and guesthouses, you can find amenities such as swimming pools, tennis courts, gyms, health spas and more. 

Marbella Corfu:

This is a magnificent 5-star, air conditioned hotel with the most magnificent views and featuring lots of luxurious features. The hotel also has a water park on-site complete with restaurant and bar. It offers other luxury facilities such as kids play area, wifi, flat-screen TV, nightly entertainment, private bathrooms, free toiletries and 24-hour front desk. Read our hotel review here. 

Corfu Villa Rainbow:

Beautifully set amongst olive tree groves, Villa Rainbow rooms & Apartments is excellent, affordable self-catering accommodation. It is made up of clean, comfortable, stylish rooms and apartments offering a host of features to ensure a comfortable stay. It is also well situated to Glyfada- and Kontogialos Beach among others.

Summing Up:

The Greek isles are one of the most visited places in the world, and Corfu is one of the popular islands with its white sandy beaches, clear turquoise seawater, active nightlife, amazing nature and unlimited activities. 

Your holiday on the island can be as quiet or as active as you like. It’s always crowded in the Summer months with a vibrant atmosphere. Dance and music lovers will be enraptured with the live venues while the many bars and nightclubs attract their own jubilant crowds.

The activities on Corfu are endless, the accommodation vast and varied, with everything being laid on with visitors in mind. It’s no wonder that when you tell people where you’re headed they’re jealous, because Corfu is filled with all the ingredients to ensure that visitors have the time of their lives.

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[rentalcarscancun01]

Rent A Car in Athens Greece

Places to visit in Athens

The Attica Zoological Park dates back to 2000 and currently houses nearly 300 different species of bird. It is one of the largest bird parks in the world and it can be found on the outskirts of Athens (near Spata). There are also other animals housed here and it is a great day out for all the family with a children's play area and picnic area. The park is open all year round.

When you rent a car, Athens Greece is a great place for those who want to see more of the city's historical attractions. These include the Panathenaic Stadium which can be found close to Ardittos Hill. This is in the Pangrati area of the city and was host to the 1896 Olympics, considered to be the first modern Olympics. The site was chosen as it was also the site of the city's older stadium, constructed over 2000 years earlier. Those who visit this attraction can also catch the odd show as it still hosts some events and has seating for up to 80,000 people.

For other shows there is the Athens Concert Hall (Megaron Moussikis in Greek). This can be found in the city's Mavili Square region (near the American Embassy). The exterior of the building was constructed from marble and the interiors are equally as impressive. There are two concert halls here and some of the world's top musical stars have performed in this venue. Tickets for these shows tend to sell very quickly so it is a good idea to book as far in advance as possible if there is something that you particularly want to see.

The Athens Riviera

When you rent a car, Athens Greece opens up a world of possibilities to you. You can explore the city at your leisure, plan your own holiday schedule and travel in comfort. Athens is a beautiful city and the long and varied history makes it one of the most influential cities in the western world. With a range of modern and historical attractions there is something for everyone so there is no reason to get bored.

A visit to the Athens coast areas is not to be missed. Take the Syngrou Avenue to the south and some of the best areas of the Athens Riviera, such as Piraiki coast, Paleo Faliro, Alimos marina, Glyfada, Voula, Kavouri, Vouliagmeni, Varkiza, Anavyssos and Cape Sounion.

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What Makes Athens Hostels The Safest Accommodations

If you are done with the booking of flight tickets to Athens; then booking safe accommodation is your next task. The place where you will be putting up must ensure high security. Though you will come across numerous options including guest houses and hotels, going with hostels in Athens will be the best choice.

What is the Difference between Staying in a Hotel and a Hostel?

How hostels are different from Athens hotels? In a hostel, you will be staying in a dormitory-style. In other words, you will be sharing rooms with other travelers. Though there will be somewhat difference in terms of privacy, but there will be some excitement as well. Whereas in a hotel; you will be living in a completely separate room.

There will be privacy, but somewhat isolation along with a lack of excitement. In a dormitory, you will have someone beside to have some words and pass your time smoothly. Some of the exclusively renowned hostels Athens that are known for providing immaculate customer service include the following:

Brazzera Hotel Syros   Fantasis Hotel Kasos   Hotel OlympiaFrancesco’s IOS Student Travellers Inn

There will be a common kitchen where you can cook your desirous delights without depending on the outside food court. Travelers not aware of cooking may order foods that will be available in the hostel itself. Eating fresh cook foods will prevent you from falling ill. Also, you will come across a small touch of the Greece culture.

CCTV Cameras are there to Observe Every Activity

There is a misconception among many that hostels are safe for men but not for women. It is totally wrong! Highly reliable and recognized Athens hostels are inclusive of special staff members to observe every move of travelers. They keep an eye on every activity that is taking place inside the hostel.

Also, some have CCTV cameras installed. Though you have to share a common dormitory; high safety is ensured. Some hostels in Athens that ensure this exclusive facility include the following:

Lego Platamona     Mimoza milos     Villa Rena Andros Students Inn

Even after comprising such exclusive safety measures, if anybody is not comfortable; then that traveler may request a room change in the hostel Athens. Several options will help in making the right choice. If you want to live completely with your family members only, then better go for a completely separate room.

Additional Facilities in Hostels for Convenience of Travelers

A highly reliable and trustworthy hostel in Athens is inclusive of additional facilities that contribute to make the Athens accommodation highly comfortable. Some of them include:

Swimming pools

Locker

Car rental services

Common room for celebration

Travel guide and many more.

These are some perks that help in making in the hostel memorable. With almost similar facilities like that of the home, it will become easy to make your vacation enjoyable. Carrying out a little bit of research work will help you to come across some of the highly reliable and trustworthy hostels where it will become easy to enjoy a peaceful sleep at night.

Find Reference post:https://bestathenshotels.blogspot.com/2020/10/what-makes-athens-hostels-safest.html

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For car rental athens choose red-athens-rentacar.com

In 2020, the Greek metropolis of Athens saw the founding of the RED Athens Rent a Car enterprise. Our business is a part of a network of businesses centered on the auto sector. As a young rental company, we provide a broad selection of automobiles, including all popular car types including small, family, economical, Jeep, SUV, and minivans. Our goal is to provide our clients brand-new cars that have been meticulously inspected for the finest quality and safety while combining the most affordable prices. We are based in car rental athens , and we make every effort to give you the best services possible. We promise to give you the finest services possible based on our experience in the rental and sales of cars.

Our business offers meet-and-greet services (vehicle delivery) to customers at Piraeus Port, Rafina Port, and Athens International Airport El. Venizelos. For your convenience, we can also deliver or pick up our automobiles from any hotel or apartment inside the city borders as well as from our offices in Acharnes, Attica. You may be confident that RED Rent a Car Company will satisfy all of your demands for a rental car in Athens, Greece. We provide our clients a full range of car rental services with several benefits, as well as brand-new, secure automobiles.

The easiest method to plan your trip and visit all the must-see sights of Greece is to go to Athens, Attica, and other parts of the nation by vehicle. Actually, on a road trip, the route is sometimes more important than the destination. You must read our recommendations if you wish to travel to the well-known Greek locations close to Attica. There are many different vacation suggestions for well-liked locations all around southern Greece. Start your road trip planning by making a vehicle rental reservation right now using our simple online system. A consortium of businesses focused on the automotive sector includes our organization .

[bites-kms]

Santorini by the Sea

Indulge me for a minute: try to imagine the most succulent Adonis you can think of. Now, play in Spotify the Mamma Mia! playlist, choose your favorite Abba song and imagine yourself wearing Meryl Streep’s dungarees or at least some blue outfit that matches the traditional domes you had in mind. Now, dance and sing your heart out with this Adonis by the Caldera, the major iconic Greek bay landscape. That’s exactly how Santorini was portrayed in my mind, and except for the Adonis, the rest was absolutely on point!

After a ridiculously short flight of less than 40 mins from Athens, I landed in Santorini Airport where the driver was waiting to pick me up and take me to the Airbnb. We decided to stayed in Imieroviglie, the picturesque town in between Oia and Thira/Fira. It was a great location away from the touristic noise yet very secluded, so the best choice we made was renting a car to make our stayed way more enjoyable. This decision didnt come easy, since during our first day, we walked like crazy and dealt with tons of transport issues. Hence, regardless and because of that, we decided to treat ourselves. First, with a great lunch at Aegeon, the only opened place at 11 am in Imieroviglie on our way to Thira/Fira. A delicious salmon, some seafood orzo and fava dip was paired to perfection on this spotless and unique location overlooking the Caldera. It was fantastic and a very much needed delight to continue our walking expedition.

After a quick walk around Thira/Fira, we went back to our Airbnb to get ready for sunset time in Oia, on the opposite side of the island. This place is beautiful, yet it gets super crowded quite easily, specially when the tourist busses arrive at the exact sunset time and people get desperate to find a viewing spot. We used our understated Indiana Jones skills to get a unique spot at the Castle, which is by far the best place to watch the sunset. One great tip is to sit not facing the sun, but actually against it, in order to have the perfect sky colors and clouds show, instead of just watching a blinding-bright circle. Also, this is the part of the world where you want to be staring at Oia instead of the sun, so trust us when trying to get a spot facing the island and not the other way round. The sun’s dimming light towards the white and blue city is a unique spectacle worth the wait, shot and crowd. 

The sky was already changing colors, the typical island foggy weather was blurring the sun, and some of the tourists were getting clingier and clingier, so we called it a day. We wanted to keep the memory intact rather than to spoil it with crazy flashes and overexcited crowds. It was the perfect moment to leave since the town was empty, concentrating everyone within the few blocks around the castle and sunset site, so we had it all for ourselves and took advantage of it to take marvelous and EMPTY pictures! We later found a fantastic spot to have dinner, overseeing the sea and a very last glimpse of sunset light. We entered to Lotza, a family-run taverna, with very tasty and vast food portions ready to satisfy your cravings after our survival sunset adventure. We were craving for dessert, and during the three nights we stayed in Santorini, we crossed the street in front of our Airbnb and asked for dessert: chocolate volcano, and we ate it in bed. It was yummy! The very last day, I wanted to check out what else besides the dessert was available, so I went by myself to White Restaurant and ask for the dish of the day, and it was a very soft and tasty roaster in wine and soup, with tomato sauce with some Greek pasta that was absolutely perfect for the windy evening. 

Although we walked and walked a lot, and once again, we are convinced it’s the best way to explore unknown city parts - and seriously, who doesn’t love a very nice stroll down the hills of Santorini?- , our beautiful Fiat 500 AKA “La Macchina” gave us a lot of freedom to roam around the island, disregarding the bus schedules and the ticketing people’s shouts. I guess since it was the very end of the season, people in Santorini were a little bit ruder than in other parts of Greece, not wanting to work anymore or at least without much patience nor love, since they already did it for 3 months non-stop (not an excuse, but still understandable) and they know people will still be coming. And once again, can’t stress this enough, this rudeness was only found in Santorini, specially in Thira/Fira and Imieroviglie, so the further you went away from the touristic places, the better you were treated, and in the other islands as well as in Athens, the story was completely different, with smiles and gratitude everywhere you went. My ferry got cancelled and I had to deal with the same not-very-friendly disposition of these people downtown Thira/Fira, but everything changed when we found the exception that makes the rule: Artemis, from Sunbird rent a car. This is the lovely owner of the place, which not only works as a car rental, the only one open in the morning and off-season, but also offers a superb service. Their fleet is very good, she recommended us different cars and convinced us with the beautiful, convertible mustard Fiat 500 (drove by two Italians ;)) and she mentioned all the important places we should visit around, with great recommendations that made the whole difference during our stayed. Thank you, Artemis! You changed and shaped our trip! <3 

Ladies and Gentlemen, start your engines, coz our zig-zag route across Santorini is about to begin! We went to Akrotiri lighthouse, the southwestern point of Santorini and hence, the one that was further away from us. We decided to go there first and start exploring the rest in our way back. We found an incredible isolated church, which according to Google Maps, should be Agios Eleftherios: it was beautiful and peaceful. We decided to chill for a while before heading to the beaches around the area. Red Beach, Black Beach and White Beach are right next to each other, although the White one can only be accessed by ferry boat -which we decided not to do- these three beaches were created by unique soil shores that form natural bays, resulting in a breathtaking view by the crystal waters of the Aegean sea.

We stoped on some few pitstops to admire the view and also to get some yummy Freddo Capucinnos, the best one being in Akrotiri, the little cafe located on the main corner of the town. Following Artemis recommendations, we headed to Megalochori Village. Megalochori is one of the most picturesque villages on the island. Its existence is recorded back to the 17th century. Home to historical mansions, old traditional houses, pirate hideaways and wine canvas, it has a history of merchants and wealthy land barons exporting Vinsanto wine that the island still produces. We had lunch at Petrino , located on Megalochori central square. Not only was a great location but also our restaurant of choice was the one that became fully packed in comparison to the other two that were next to it. We had some fried calamari and fresh tomato pasta. We left little room for dessert in another beautiful spot near by. 

The other mini town and historical settlement Artemis recommended was Pyrgos, few kilometers away from Megalochori. Damn, those narrow tiny street, what a headache for my out of practice driving skills, and also, I’ve never driven such a small and cute car before, so my space and surrounding awareness was almost inexistent. Thank God for Mau’s road love. According to Greece-is.com “Pyrgos, the largest preserved village on Santorini and the island’s former capital. Strategically built in the heart of the pre-volcanic hinterland and at the foot of Mount Profitis Ilias, Pyrgos affords panoramic views (...) although its charm is different: more subdued, less picture-perfect, little advertised”. We found the best table, of the best restaurant in Pyrgos. It’s call Penelope and it’s also family owned. We had some delicious espresso with the best view, underneath the main bell tower. Divine. Magical. 

We continue to explore the 2 missing beaches we had left, which happened to be the largest ones in Santorini as well. Empty, only few solo travelers were there. Perfect to rest on the now free beach chairs and beds by the sun. They are right next to each other on the southerneast point of the island. Perissa Beach and Perivolos Beach were our last contact with Santorini waters, yet it was too cold to jump in. We decided to go straight to the northern point, passing Oia, to watch the sunset in a more secluded, less touristy environment: Ammoudi Bay.

We wanted to check out Dimitri’s Fish Taverna (you can’t go more Greek than that!) but it was full and did not take reservations. We went to the area regardless, and when trying to have a seat on the first available restaurant, they didn’t want to give us a table by the shore, but instead one by the aisle. We decided to continue, since there were other restaurants with few tables by the shore, and this was the best thing that could happen to us: we found the feast we didnt know we needed at Sunset Ammoudi. Not only they greeted us warmly and gave us the table we asked for - regardless of it being pre-booked by someone who was late - but also the food, was exquisite. 

Never again during my stayed in Greece nor in my life had I tried such a delicious, creamy and perfect shrimp saganaki. With Mau we tend to shared all our dishes so we could try as many things as possible, but man, how I regret sharing this particular meal. It was all so perfect, we should have ordered a double order of everything and avoid the octopus. Although this one was fresh and tasty, it couldn’t compete with the shrimp and with the softly baked and grated feta eggplant. As I’m typing this, all my saliva comes to mouth and I can re-feel its unforgettable taste. These dishes, with the unique sunset, the delicious and fresh white wine and being on the edge of the pier -literally-, was the highlight of Santorini and the perfect way to greet our trip goodbye. Next morning Mau was flying to Napoli and I was taking a ferry to Mykonos. So, au revoir my friend, I’ll see you around sooner that we think! So glad and happy to have shared all this beauty with you!

Ammoudi Bay is indeed a must-go hidden spot. When everyone else is focused on Oia (with true reason, since the view is exactly as you pictured and imagined it) this bay is quiet, has a fresh breeze that messes up with your hair, leaving it a little bit saltier than before and it’s located exactly below and opposite to Oia. It’s hard to reach, since there’s only a secluded route by the shore, or you can also take the famous Greek donkeys down from Oia. Although picturesque, I guess due to EU laws as well as international pro-animals movements, there weren’t as many as I thought they might be, yet you can see - and smell - random donkeys roam freely around the island. 

This sunset, with the evening mist, the sea scent and the feast flavor happening in my mouth, reassured me, one more time, that Greece makes me happy. Mamma mia!, blue clothes, abba sing-a-long happy. You should give it a try. Trust me: you wont regret it. 

[the-flying-platypus]

Santorini: The exact image you have in your head of a Greek Isle

This was probably my favorite part of our trip to Greece. We stayed at the Villa Costa Marina, a small B&B in the town of Fira (Latin spelling varies) run by an awesome 30-something and her friend. Maria’s family seemingly has run inns for ages, they also own the Pelicanos Kipos restaurant up the street, and basically, they know what they’re doing.

Orientation

Once a round island, Santorini is now shaped like a sliver of a crescent moon due to a volcanic eruption. The inside of the crescent features steep cliffs with whitewashed houses and churches clinging to the edges. The outside of the crescent falls towards the sea more gradually, and most of the beaches (and farms) can be found here.

Fira is the main city, and is located on the eastern (inside of crescent) side of the island. Oia, a town famous for sunsets, is on the Northern tip of the crescent. Beaches and archeological sites are generally found to the south.

Sights/Activities

The original crater is still active, and you can take a boat tour there. To get to the pier, you can either walk down the hill which includes many stairs and spectacular views (I ran down because I was late for the boat), ride a donkey (probably a cool experience for some people but be warned, the donkeys are excruciatingly slow and kind of smelly), or take the funicular (fastest, we did this on the way up). There are several boat tours available. We opted for a half-day tour in a cool old boat that included an opportunity to swim to the volcanic hot springs. The tour included a guided hike up to the top of the crater that took our group about 30-45 min. Our group was pretty large and included slow walkers like my parents; I probably could have summited in under 15 min without breaking a sweat. The hike to the volcano caldera is all rock (mostly red, some yellow or black) and there are several spots at the top where you can see smoke coming out. There is NO SHADE, so it gets super hot. Bring an umbrella (yes, for the sun). We probably spent 1.5 hours on the volcano crater before going back to the boat. 

Reaching the hot springs, we were allowed to jump off the deck of the boat. The water was freezing, which made me swim faster to reach the springs, which, sadly were only warm and not hot (apparently this is seasonal). I definitely swam hard back to the boat knowing that the cold water was coming.

After the tour, I opted to do a 10km hike from Fira to Oia for the sunset. The walk was amazing: generally you travel along the edge of a cliff with views of the sea the whole way. There’s a bit of countryside, some farm navigation, and some old churches and shrines to explore.

Oia is a cool town which merited more time than I gave it. It has smooth, wide stone sidewalks, more whitewashed buildings clinging to cliffsides, cute shops (especially art shops), a wide variety of restaurants, and, of course, breathtaking sunsets. The best place to see the sunset is at the Northern tip of the crescent – basically just keep walking in the direction you were hiking until you can’t anymore. If it’s around sunset, they’ll be lots of people there. There’s a castle thing you can climb for a better view. Buses back were plentiful and popular. I was a bit scared when the last scheduled bus, packed to the gills, left the station before I could get on it, but not to worry, there were more buses coming to take the rest of the people waiting.

The next day, while my parents took a guided tour around the island, I opted to take the city bus to some attractions. The city of Akrotiri was buried 3800 years ago by volcanic eruption, and is now an archaeological site enclosed by an impressive building. Not taking the tour saved me the money I needed for entrance, which was not cheap, but it was worth it. The site includes several ancient buildings, some of which you can walk through, as well as some pottery. Signage is in English and pretty good, plus you can always follow one of the guided tour groups around to learn more. The most historically interesting fact (to me) was that Akrotiri was a peaceful city, there was no evidence of weapons or war, just trade. It appears to have been abandoned before the volcano destroyed it, because there were no bodies found buried alive (not like they were in Pompeii).

Santorini isn’t known for its beaches, but there are actually a couple nice ones. Located a short (but technical) walk from the Akrotiri site, the red beach is a smallish semi-circle of coarse reddish-brown sand backed by a high cliff. Though well-known, the beach was uncrowded when we were there (early May) and did not have the typical European 10,000 beach chairs and umbrellas. There’s a juice stand at the entrance to the hike.

As I was standing at the bus stop waiting to go back to town, Maria and Steve, a young couple from California that we’d met on our tour in Athens happened to drive by in their rental car, and I tagged along to their next destination, the black beach. Much bigger than the red beach, the black beach sits on the southeastern side of the crescent of Santorini, far from the cliffs of Oia. Though it was uncrowded in offseason, this is the beach that clearly becomes the land of 10,000 chairs and umbrellas full of probably topless sunbathers in the summer. As it was, we had some mezze at one of the beachside restaurants and a couple beers in the chairs. We were the only ones there.

That night, Maria and Steve and I followed Lila, the girl who worked at our inn, to experience some Santorini nightlife. I couldn’t tell you where we went, but being the off season it was pretty chill. You can see how it would heat up in season, but I doubt it gets crazy like Mikonos, as the vibe is a bit older (more 30-somethings)

Finally, there is a fish pedicure place called Fish Spa. They have free WiFi and offer a 2nd fish pedicure for free if you come back within a certain amount of time. I’d wanted to get a fish pedicure before (mainly, in Cozumel) but they don’t have them in the US because of PETA or something, so I was super excited. And my feet were so soft afterwards. I totally want to do it again.

Food

Pelican Kipos restaurant is owned by Maria’s family and includes an extensive wine cellar. Everything we ate was delicious. A highlight for me was the tomato fritters. They also have a wine tour featuring local cheeses, which I would love to do next time. Generally I found the food in Santorini to be much more reasonably priced than in Mikonos. Anyway, everything we got was delicious and you should go there.

Other than that, there weren’t any places that really stood out in terms of deliciousness. There several restaurants in downtown Fira that offer decks with western exposure, and it’s worth it to get a spot by the railing around sunset (or earlier). One of the Santorini specialties is fried tomatoes, which obviously I couldn’t get enough of.

[alexllove-blog]

Iraklia island in Greece just may be the untouched Greek island destination you're looking for. Boasting charm, beauty, and peace and quiet, here's everything you need to know.

Looking for a quiet destination in Greece?

For many people, Greece brings up images of the Santorini volcano and blue-domed churches, the Acropolis in Athens, the stunning landscapes in Meteora, and the archaeological site of Delphi.

This is understandable, as these are some of the most visited locations in Greece. 

Greece, however, is much more than its popular destinations. The Cyclades group of islands, where Santorini and Mykonos belong, includes many more islands, some of which haven’t been spoilt by mass tourism.

Iraklia Island

One of those islands is Iraklia Island, which belongs to the “Small Cyclades” or “Lesser Cyclades” group of islands, along with Ano Koufonissi, Kato Koufonissi, Schinoussa, Donoussa and the uninhabited Keros.

Those small islands are located between Naxos, Ios and Amorgos, and they are a great choice if you want a relaxing holiday in Greece.

A little information about Iraklia Greece

Iraklia is a small island with fewer than 100 permanent residents. Most of them live either in the Agios Georgios village right on the port, or in the Chora settlement, also known as Panagia, 4 kms away.

Iraklia doesn’t have much to do apart from relaxing and being close to nature. It feels like time has stopped on this tiny island.

Even though it’s so close to well-known Greek islands such as Naxos, Paros and Ios, Iraklia is very different. It offers a sense of freedom, as you don’t need to plan anything at all.

A perfect island getaway

Approaching the island from the sea, you will see the small village of Agios Georgios with its small lovely beach. Here you will find a few tavernas, a couple of mini markets, some scattered rooms to let, white-washed houses, churches, and curious, hospitable locals.

If you can read Greek, you will soon discover a large sign with the words “Welcome to Iraklia Greece – here, no one can find you”.

Where to stay in Iraklia

Agios Georgios is the best place to stay in Iraklia. Villa Meltemi and Sunset are among the best places to stay, but the village is so small that the exact location hardly matters. Booking.com (function(d, sc, u) { var s = d.createElement(sc), p = d.getElementsByTagName(sc)[0]; s.type = 'text/javascript'; s.async = true; s.src = u + '?v=' + (+new Date()); p.parentNode.insertBefore(s,p); })(document, 'script', '//aff.bstatic.com/static/affiliate_base/js/flexiproduct.js');

Services on Iraklia

There is now an ATM on Iraklia, but no bank, and no car rental services or gas station – though it’s possible to rent a motorcycle.

A small bus takes visitors from Agios Georgios to Panagia, though you will need to ask around for more information. There is no proper pharmacy, so if you need to get any medication you will have to go to Naxos.

Hiking around Iraklia Greece

Iraklia has eight distinct hiking trails that are popular with nature lovers. Like in most of the other Cyclades, the landscape in Iraklia is wild and dry.

The island has cliffs all around and there are several viewing points from where you can see 19 of the nearby islands. The highest point of the island is called Papas, and it’s a whopping 420 metres.

Even if you have been to Santorini, the view from Papas is likely to stay in your mind forever.

Some of the best hikes in Iraklia are the trails leading to Profitis Ilias and to Merichas, where you can reach one of the most picturesque points of the island.

If you look up, you will definitely see some prey birds, as the island is home to 26 distinct types of hawks, eagles and the like. Sit at the edge of the cliff and look down to the sea, and you will feel like you are at the world’s end.

Beaches in Iraklia Island

Iraklia has ten beaches, of which only three are accessible by car. Some of the others are easily reached by hiking, while a couple of them are only accessible by boat.

The biggest and best beach in Iraklia Greece is Livadi, one of the prettiest beaches all around the Cyclades, a short walk from Agios Georgios village.

It is popular with freecampers from about mid-July to end of August, but outside that time of year it is fairly quiet. As it faces north, it can often be affected by the strong Meltemia winds that are quite common in summer.

Naturism is common on the far right side of the beach, while families prefer the left side, which is closer to the main road. Until last summer there was no infrastructure and very little shade, so you have to bring everything you need.

One of the most popular beaches in Iraklia is the beach by Agios Georgios port, which is very easily accessible and more protected from the winds than Livadi. As a result, it can get crowded, by Iraklia standards, on windy days.

More beaches in Iraklia

Another sandy beach on the north of the island, Vorini Spilia, is also worth exploring, as it’s quiet and relaxed. Again, it’s best to visit on a non-windy day, as it will be very difficult to swim otherwise. You can hike there through the path passing by Agios Athanasios.

If you are happy to go for a short hike from the village of Panagia, you can easily reach pebbly Tourkopigado beach, to the east of the island. As it is right inside a small bay, it is protected from the winds.

Warning – you are very likely to come across some friendly goats!

Two of the nicest beaches in Iraklia are Karvounolakkos and Alimia, only accessible through a short boat trip on the “Anemos” boat.

Both of these beaches are stunning, with crystal clear water. Alimia, on the west side of the island, hides a secret – a German airplane from World War II lies under the surface of the sea, and the water is so clear that you can actually see it from the boat.

Snorkels and fins are provided, but be prepared for a very refreshing swim in the deep blue sea.

The Cave of Agios Ioannis in Iraklia Greece

Iraklia has another secret, the Cave of Agios Ioannis (Saint John). This massive cave is the seventh largest cave in Greece, and can be reached after a hike of about an hour and a half from the village of Panagia.

It is actually open for people to visit, but there is no infrastructure for visitors, and even getting there might not be entirely straightforward. It might be best to visit with a local guide, who can show you the hidden cave.

As the entrance to the cave is quite small, you will have to go in on your hands and knees – but it’s absolutely worth it and once you are inside the cave you won’t believe its size.

Bring a spare torch and extra batteries – you definitely don’t want to run out of light inside the cave!

Agios Ioannis cave was discovered accidentally at the end of the 19th century by a shepherd. According to tradition, Saint John’s icon was found in the cave, and this is how it got its name.

Every year, on the 28th August, the eve of the Saint’s nameday, a major religious ceremony happens in the cave, and hundreds of people arrive to celebrate the Saint with chants and candles. This is followed by songs and dances until late at night. If you happen to be visiting Iraklia around that time, don’t miss it.

Iraklia and Greek Mythology

If you have ever read Homer’s Odyssey, you will remember the story of Polifimos, the Cyclops who captured Odysseus and his colleagues on their way back to Ithaca and kept them in his cave, which was likely the smaller cave opposite St John’s cave.

Odysseus managed to cheat the Cyclops by blinding his only eye, and free his colleagues. As they were sailing away from Iraklia, Polifimos started throwing big boulders towards them.

These can still be seen today – they are the small islets called Avelonisia, to the west of Iraklia.

Where to eat in Iraklia Island

As the island is so small, if you stay for a few days you will have enough time to try all the tavernas in Iraklia.

Our favourite a couple of years ago was Akathi. They not only had a large selection of traditional Greek dishes, but also made some lovely waffles.

Make sure you also try Maistrali, Eolos and all the other tavernas, as all our meals were way above average. Definitely check out Surfin Bird, with some of the best views of the Aegean.

If you like meat, you should taste some sheep and goat dishes. Otherwise, try the local cheeses, the fava split peas and the delicious honey.

How to get to Iraklia Greece

You can only get to Iraklia by boat from Piraeus, Naxos, Amorgos and the other Small Cyclades islands.

For summer 2019, there is a direct boat, the Blue Star Naxos, running from Piraeus to Iraklia three times a week (Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays). It departs at 6.45 am and arrives at Iraklia at 13.10, stopping at Paros and Naxos on the way.

If you are not flexible with your dates, your only other option to get from Athens to Iraklia is to first get any ferry to Naxos, and then get the Skopelitis Express boat to Iraklia.

This small ferry leaves Naxos at 14.00 and arrives at Iraklia at 15.30 daily, apart from Sundays. Unlike its name suggests, it’s not a highspeed ferry – it’s a small, conventional ferry that has been serving this route for over six decades.

You can read more about the Skopelitis Express here.

If you are already on Naxos, you can take either the Blue Star Naxos or the Skopelitis Express. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, both boats run from Naxos to Iraklia, while on other days it’s one or the other.

If you are in Amorgos, Koufonissi or Schinoussa, you can either take the Skopelitis Express any day apart from Sunday, or the Blue Star Naxos on Sundays, Tuesdays and Thursdays.

There is also another ferry, Aqua Jewel, but it only runs to Iraklia every second Monday. Most routes depart from Katapola port in Amorgos, though on some days you can also leave from Egiali.

Finally, the Express Skopelitis runs from Donoussa to Iraklia three times a week, on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

Confused? Don’t worry – you can check out information for your specific dates and book your tickets to Iraklia at Ferryhopper.

Is Iraklia suitable for a day trip?

It is possible to go to Iraklia Greece on a day trip from Naxos, Schinoussa or Koufonissi, but due to the ferry schedules you will only have a few hours there. If you want to get a better idea of the island, it’s best to allow for at least one night there.

There is also the option of taking a day trip from Naxos to the Small Cyclades. Keep in mind that those trips can largely be determined by weather, so if you are specific about spending some time in Iraklia, it’s best to go on the larger ferries.

How long should I stay in Iraklia Greece?

There is no right or wrong answer to this question. If you like nature and want to get away from it all, any amount of time will be fine. Iraklia is charming and grows on you, and you will probably miss it when you’re back home.

The post Iraklia Island in Greece – The Perfect Small Cyclades Getaway appeared first on Dave& Travel Pages.

[noordinarytravel]

13 Ways to Cut Travel Costs

2019 is upon us and I see a lot of social media posts about traveling more in 2019. I also see a lot of posts about paying off debt and saving more money. You may think traveling more and saving money are mutually exclusive but, in reality, it doesn’t have to be that way.

If you haven’t traveled much before or if you are new to travel altogether, there are some cost cutting strategies that have helped me and my clients achieve the goal of more travel. With the money you save, you can either travel more or you can travel better. The choice is yours.

Use a Travel Agent

Yes, I said use a travel agent. The great thing about using a travel agent or consultant is that they have access to suppliers that don’t work with the general public. They can help find you great deals, especially packages, that have perks that add more value to your travel dollars. They can also identify the best times to travel to spare you unnecessary spending as well as nerve wracking crowds.

If you have special needs, they can help make sure you have suitable accommodations or even special needs equipment ensuring you have the best travel experience possible. There’s nothing worse than traveling to some fabulous destination and then finding out there are some things that will keep you from truly enjoying your vacation.

Be Flexible

When I say be flexible I don’t mean that you should compromise your standards or settle for something that will not make you happy. What I mean is traveling on a different day, taking a red-eye flight, or staying a few miles from your intended destination could save you a ton of money.

Stay a few miles from your destination and use public transportation to get to your target to save on hotel expenses. We utilize this strategy quite a bit and, not only do we save a lot of money (sometimes a few hundred dollars!), but we also get to know unknown neighborhoods and towns that we ended up loving.

Travel Off Season

Traveling during peak season when everyone else is traveling is one sure way to spend more than you really need to. Prices are driven up due to supply and demand: everyone else is competing for the same flights and hotels as you. Sometimes moving your travel plans just a couple of weeks is enough to save big time.

For the Caribbean, consider the early part of the year since summer is full of family travelers when the kiddos are out of school. For Iceland, consider traveling outside of the Northern Lights Season. For NYC, don’t go during the Christmas and New Year’s holidays. Consider when it is busiest for your intended destination and then go at another time of the year. You will potentially save yourself a ton of money.

Prioritize

Unless you have an infinite amount of time at your intended destination, I recommend prioritizing tours and attractions. Make the most of your travel dollars by seeing the things that drew you to the destination to begin with. You may have ten attractions and tours on your list but realistically only have time for six of them. See the things that matter most to you and you will ensure you the best time possible and you won’t walk away feeling disappointed because you missed something you really wanted to see.

Check Out Unknown Destinations

This one ties into being flexible. When we went to Greece, our intended destination was Athens however we did not stay in Athens. Instead, we stayed in Alimos which is less than 10 miles from Athens and were able to secure a fabulous 3 bedroom/2 bath condo across from the beach for $200 per night. It was walking distance to the beach, stores, and several restaurants and all it took was a quick Uber to get to the ancient monuments we wanted to see.

Yes, we spent an extra $30 - $50 for Uber on the days we wanted to go Athens but we easily saved $100+ per night in accommodations. We prioritized and grouped attractions and tours so that we could do multiple in one day and limit the number of Uber rides we needed. In addition, we were able to spend some time on some beautiful beaches that were otherwise not on our radar.

Vacation Rentals

This one goes back to a previous article I wrote about how to decide between hotels and vacation rentals (i.e. Airbnb) for your next trip. My first consideration is the price of a hotel vs the price of a vacation rental. If you are traveling with your family or with a group, the price of a vacation rental with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms may very well be less expensive that getting multiple hotel rooms.

Upside to a vacation rental? Shared living space means you get more quality time together. Downside? You miss out on daily housekeeping, benefit of the hotel concierge, and the 1-to-1 ratio of bedrooms to bathrooms. If you don’t feel comfortable sharing a bathroom with members of your group, this is likely not the best option for you.

Use Public Transportation

This is a no brainer but still worth mentioning. Using available buses and trains is absolutely less expensive that using cabs or Uber. A multi day Hop-On-Hop-Off bus is also an alternative plus you oftentimes get a narrated tour of the city. It will take some research on your part to determine the stops and stations you need but the cost savings can be significant, especially if you are traveling alone or as a couple when you have less opportunity to defray the costs.

Watch for Deals

Two words: flash sale. If you are not airline loyal, flash sales will save you a bunch of money. If you aren’t familiar with flash sales, they are sales that come up quickly and with a short lifespan. There are limited number of seats for the flash sale so you have to act fast.

A couple of years ago we went to Ireland, Italy, and Greece and we took advantage of round trip airfare to Dublin for $450 per person. Yes they were economy seats but we then upgraded to premium economy so that we had a few more creature comforts for the long flight. It was absolutely worth the quick action on our parts. The downside is that flash sales don’t pop up for all destinations or for all departure cities. You have to keep an eye out and be ready to pull the trigger when it does happen.

In addition, watch for hotel promotions that could include daily breakfast, free upgrades, or free nights with a minimum nights stay. If you are a member of rewards program for a certain hotel chain, you may be eligible for members only rates and specials as well.

Frequent Flier Programs

If you are airline loyal, this will work well for you. If you go where the deals are, it will take you longer to get to having enough miles for a free flight but it can still work. You have to pay attention to the fine print because using miles may not apply to all routes, seat categories, or there may be black out periods. In addition, your miles may expire after a certain amount of time or you may have to fly every 12 months to keep them from expiring. Read the fine print so you know how to best take advantage of the program!

Travel Credit Cards

Travel credit cards are the ones that give you travel perks including earning miles, have an annual travel credit, or credit for TSA pre-check or Global Entry. They may include car rental or travel insurance when you use your card for car rentals or airfare purchases, access to airport lounges, and they may even offer roadside assistance. Make sure you are familiar with the benefits of your card so you can avoid purchasing items and services unnecessarily.

I have a Delta American Express card that I use for EVERYTHING. I use it at the grocery store and to pay bills, and then I pay it off each month. I earn miles for all transactions which I plan to use on a future trip. Again……read the fine print so you know how to best earn and use your miles.

Travel Insurance

I cringe when I think back to the trips I took many years ago in which I had no travel insurance. I was seriously taking a huge chance on things working out as well as the did. If you travel often, an annual policy may work well for you.

Travel insurance is not just for accidents or medical emergencies. Depending on the policy and coverage you select, it may also cover trip delays, lost luggage, or cancelled flights and tours. It may also cover trip cancellation due to weather events or terrorist threats and attacks. Again…….it all depends on the policy and coverage you select.

There have many times in which we had flights delayed for various reasons, luggage was put on the wrong flight, and once my kiddo’s was wheelchair lost. The point is you never know when something may happen and having insurance will help you replace those items, pay for hotel rooms if you get stranded somewhere, or even help if you lose your passport on your trip.

Cook Your Own Meals and Pack Snacks

We prefer to stay in vacation rentals because we love having a full kitchen. Yes, we go out to eat during our trips however we save money by cooking dinner at least a couple of times during a 7 night period and we fix our own breakfast on most days. It is such a simple thing to do too. It can be as simple as grabbing some frozen waffles or fruit and yogurt at a nearby grocery store or making a full breakfast that keeps us full til dinner.

While at the grocery store we grab snacks that we can throw into our backpack and eat on the run. We can spend $10 - $20 on a few snacks that keep us on move until we are ready to have a nice dinner. It is a little harder to implement this strategy if you don’t have access to a kitchen but grab some snacks for breakfast and you are good to go.

Free Tours and Museums

It has been my experience that most big cities have free walking tours and/or museums with free admission. A lack of an admission price does not mean there is a lack of quality. You may be pleasantly surprised by what you find in the freebies.

We went to Cuba in 2017 and stumbled across an amazing art museum that I never saw in travel guides. It had free admission but did have a couple of boxes posted in different areas to accept donations. It ended up being on of my favorite places! Keep your eyes open for this hidden gems!

Certainly you don’t have to employ all of my recommended strategies. Using even just a couple of them will help you save money. We prefer to use our savings by traveling better (upgrading flights or cruise ship staterooms) but you may choose to use that money for an additional trip. Whatever it is that means the most to you……just do it! You will have greater satisfaction from your travels and get the most for your hard earned money!

Make the most of 2019!

Annette

[madelineblandows-blog]

How To Find The Best Flight Costs When Airlines Mess Up

Company Travel is a privately-held, family enterprise that operated its first tour in 1965. In Skift's 2018 report The Rise of Transformative Travel ," Beth McGroarty, director of research and public relations at the World Wellness Institute, says travel is now seen as a shortcut" or shake-up." The worldwide journey financial system is shifting from a focus on esteem" to self-actualization," and travelers are shopping for companies that they understand as with the ability to induce fast and full change.

My Athens Guide makes the city and surrounding areas easy and pleasurable by following my steps and just doing what I do. It contains restaurant evaluations , resorts (including areas to stay and areas to avoid), archaeology sites , beaches , Photo Tours that may enable you to perceive the city, dependable travel companies , day-journeys , shopping , nightlife , and a whole bunch of different topics, all in stunning Technicolor. Life Before Work Travel , an organization that plans group journeys for people ages 18 to 35, not too long ago pivoted from celebration excursions to transformative journey. It's not every lodge in Greece however it is every hotel that has been beneficial by the agencies and vacationers in addition to accommodations I have stayed at and suggest myself. The 250 travelers who joined him might keep and indulge within the standard debauchery featured on Life Before Work journeys, however he additionally hired audio system on health and wellness, yoga lecturers, and self-assist specialists. The trips in our database are special gives posted by selected journey suppliers collaborating in this On-line Company website. In addition to simply wanting up airfare and lodge rates, experienced journey brokers are prone to have insight into gadgets best car rental deals akin to where to stay inside your price range, what dates are ideal for journey to your vacation spot of alternative and any particular promotions or discounts for which you'll be eligible.The examine is predicated on a March 2017 online survey of 1,548 U.S. Millennial vacationers The respondents had been between 20 and 37 years old, had an annual income of $35,000 or more and had taken an overnight trip at the very least 75 miles from residence throughout the prior year. Karen Wickre, an web trade veteran and founder of KVOX Media, relies on a travel adviser who can see competitive pricing and scheduling," when planning complicated journeys outside the U.S.

[togreeceandbeyond]

We left the resort hotel and headed toward Argos. We had a nice leisurely drive to Mycenae, the ancient fortress near Argos. We had missed it on our first trip through the area and wanted to see it. It's a very elaborate fortress on top of a hill that was essentially a city thousands of years ago. Obviously it’s mostly in ruins now, but the layout and the structure of the community was self-sustaining. There are some awesome gates into the walled area and I still don't know how they got the heavy rocks up to make the lintels. They were also able to use very heavy doors and open them rather easily. It looked very ominous for rain and there was thunder and lightning off to the west of us, but we never got rained on. We met an interesting couple from Atlanta. She's a doctor with the VA Health System who deals mostly with women and is highly involved in Morehouse University. Her husband is an attorney who has a political blog, as an amateur. We never asked what type of law he practiced and he never volunteered. We had a really nice visit and we had so much fun in the museum that we were told to be quiet because we were making too much noise as we entered the areas of exhibits where the sound is more amplified according to the music teacher. She tried to explain her actions away to the guard and the guard said, “I understand.” After that we drove through Argos and decided it wasn't the place we really wanted to spend the night after all. We continued on to Nafplio where we had stayed two days when we arrived in Greece. We found a hotel near downtown that wasn't 80 steps above the street level. The room was really nice, but not comparable to the five star hotel and spa from the night before. We walked up to “Popeye Bistro” where we had eaten two weeks prior and the owner recognized us right away. I can't imagine why. He said,”One carbonara for two people and two small beers, right?” We said yes. We sat next to a couple from the Netherlands but they were just having a beer before they had to meet somebody at 7:30. We had a nice discussion with them before they left and enjoyed another good meal of carbonara. It rained off and on during our meal and we hoped it would not be raining when we finished. We talked more to the owner, and came to know him better. He is from an area one hour north of Thessaloniki. He was impressed that we had driven that far in the short time we had been in Greece. While we were sitting there, two couples came up in the rain and were looking at the restaurant. We said,”It's very nice. Come on in and eat.” They did and the owner was appreciative of that gesture. He again brought us a special aperitif of a specific region in Greece as a complementary drink. It was the same drink we had before except, this time it came in the traditional glasses, not just a water glass. We got him to write down the name of the drink and said we will look for it in America. When the bill came he said the aperitif is on him again and one of the beers is complementary,  because we had been so nice to get people to come to eat in his restaurant. Just being nice and being ourselves is paying off in many ways. The next morning we headed toward the island of Spetses. We had heard Spetses was a very nice island that you didn't need a cruise ship to get to. We took a ferry from  the mainland for two euros 50 cents each. We had no idea where to stay and we didn't trust Orbitz anymore to give us a good price. We found a hotel that sounded nice but it was 1.5 km from the port area. We were walking to it to check it out and decided it was too far away so we looked for something in the port area. We found something on the second try that was a 40-year hotel right on the waterfront with a balcony and free Wi-Fi. We looked at the room and decided it wasn't the Ritz but we would take it. It was not only not the Ritz but it was not Motel 6 either when we looked around. The room was clean and the bed was nice but the Wi-Fi was only on the ground floor and there was only one plug and the whole room to charge devices. We decided to eat in on the balcony with some wine and cheese. It was a great meal. We had checked out some four wheel rental places because you can't take a car onto the island and found a place that was reasonable, with a nice guy running it. Breakfast was on our own and that was nice as well. After breakfast we secured the room where we are now and rented the four wheel motor scooter to go around the island. We enjoyed a great drive with some fantastic scenery and we met two couples stopping at the same scenic areas we were, one from England and one from France. The husband of the couple from England was actually born in Greece but had not visited in 31 years. The second couple from France live outside Paris. She's a student in film and he works in the film industry as a set director. He talked about the film industry in Oklahoma because he knew about it. He does a lot of filming in Hungary. He actually had done a film about the fashion industry on the same set as a massive set from the movie Mission to Mars with Matt Damon. All in all we had a great drive around the island. We checked into our hotel and met a wonderful manager of the hotel and her assistant. Before we went around the island we had traditional Greek coffee. The proprietor said not even Greeks drink traditional Greek coffee anymore. They prefer fredo cappuccino, regular cappuccino or espresso. The taste was different, but interesting. I reminded Elizabeth not to stir the coffee because the grounds are at the bottom. When I paid the man, I mentioned that I did not drink all the coffee and he said, “Oh, I forgot to tell you.”  I told him I had had traditional Turkish coffee in Yugoslavia many years ago and had stirred the coffee before I finished and I knew not to do that. We took the 4-wheeler on the backwards route around the island to get a different perspective. I had a blast driving the four-wheeler and Elizabeth just held on for dear life. When we turned it in, the guy who had rented it to us, who we ran past two or three times during the day, had a much firmer handshake before we went on our second trip.  He called me a “mountain man”.   We had had a great day and walked back to our hotel for the evening. We spoke to our hostess Tonia before we went to our room. She had been very helpful trying to find out why we had used up all our minutes but the system said we still had 1000 minutes. She's a bulldog that I would not want to have after me. She finally found that the recording was incorrect and that we did not have any minutes after all. Her colleague Anthoulis noticed I had a bottle of wine in my grocery bag. He asked if it were alcohol and I said yes it is. He said just a minute and came back with a bottle of water, or so we thought. It was the “recipe” made by his family. We stood in the lobby of the hotel and tried the recipe while covering any topic of interest, including languages, how the recipe is made in America, etc. We mentioned the aperitif ( Masticha) we had in Nafplio and showed her the spelling of it and she told us the story of how it is made. She told us it was made only from a tree in the southern part of a specific island called Chios. She knew much about it because she went to university there for her master's degree. She says that it is the “tears of the trees” that makes the aperitif what it is. Apparently the Chinese come and buy lots of it to use in their pharmacies. We had no idea we have been given something so special. If you want to know more, check out this link: http://www.seaop.gr/en/drinks/liquor/mastixa/  We ended up with a small water bottle of the “recipe” for our own use in the evening and they shared some cheese with us that really complimented the recipe. You don't get that experience on a cruise ship. We live a blessed life and with a smile and a little conversation you never know what you will learn in life. There's more to the story, like meeting Tonia’s beautiful mother Ksanthoula and eating her delicious homemade baked goods, but I will save that for a conversation in person.  We decided to spend one more night and go to Athens on Sunday. Tomorrow is Saturday but it is our day of rest.

May 27

This is our day of rest and spent morning talking to a British couple after breakfast. Can’t get pics to upload. Maybe later.