[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he last two years have been high travel periods for me. I’ve been to over 30 countries and counting. With so many wonderful places on my bucket list I vowed never to be a repeat offender and visit the same places twice besides Paris. That was until Greece happened. There is something magical and pure about this country. It is one of my top 5 favorite places to vacation in the world. The architecture, white country chapels, cliffs, food and nightlife will keep you busy, but nothing beats the breathtaking views and access to nearby islands. I have a soft spot in my heart for Greece, but I especially enjoy Mykonos.
I vacationed in Mykonos for my birthday. The city center is gorgeous and convenient for most required travel needs. It is a perfect destination for solo travel or family vacationing. There are wonderful shops, cafe’s, restaurants, bars, clubs and coffee shops to accommodate everyone’s needs. The local buses will shuttle you between the city center, neighboring hotels, landmarks and other venues. The ferries and boats offer transportation to the Cyclades in the Aegean Sea: I recommend seeing as many nearby islands as you have time for especially the Island of Delos. The locals will provide suggestions on their favorite islands, as well as, the staff who work at the tourist centers where you will catch public transportation.
I hiked and scooter biked around Mykonos and Santorini. The city can be crowded during high travel seasons, but if you go at just the right time in April/May before the busiest travel months: June, July and August it is perfect. September is also a great time to visit. I stayed at the Aeolos Hotel. It is absolutely lovely, clean, convenient and easy to access from the airport and city center. They offer a variety of accommodations from shuttle service to and from the airport, in room and poolside dining, spacious rooms, modern decor, wifi and satellite TV. The staff was extremely warm and inviting. They made me feel right at home from check-in to checkout. The owner personally meets and greets each group upon arrival. He provides each guest with a tour of the property and map of the city. Another hotel I really liked is Belvedere.
If you have the opportunity to visit Greece I highly recommend making the trek! You will not be disappointed. Depending upon where your point of origin is Athens is the cheapest and easiest direct flight. From Athens you can take either a ferry or flight to the nearby islands. I have done both and personally find flights to be easiest, however, experiencing the ferry can be a lot of fun if you avoid high travel seasons. Happy Travels!