THE WONDERS OF 2014 MAY 24-25, 2014

The National Herald

T H D E L N A AT ER IONAL H www.thenationalherald.com 2 Tourism in Greece THE NATIONAL HERALD, MAY 24, 2014 S E V I H C R A

, N O I T A Z Another Side of Athens I N A G R O

M S I R U O T

L A N O I T A N

K E E R G

: S O T O H P

By Anthe Mitrakos Today, the area is known for its collection of small located in the center of the square. This cafe also doubles as shops called “palaiopoleia,” which sell vintage furniture, a palaiopoleio itself, where customers can purchase the ourists and Athenian locals who seek to visit a less- decorative items, clothing, jewelry, paintings, books, and displayed jewelry, decorations, artwork, and even the tables crowded area near the Acropolis can pass through other items from the past. Visitors can peruse the vast and chairs, for a discount. Music lovers gather at Loukoumi Tthe picturesque Plateia Avissinias situated just antique collections and enjoy an alternative shopping to enjoy live performances with specialty coffee cocktails. beyond the busy Monastiraki metro stop heading south experience. On Sundays, the square hosts a bazar in the At the corner of the square is Café Avissinia, another along Ermou Street. The square has historically been a open space outside the vintage shops where local meeting point ideal for dinner and wine. This restaurant mixing ground for residents of various ethnic and merchants bring a greater variety of items for sale. offers a welcoming dining experience with home-style religious backgrounds, including Muslim and Jewish recipes in a setting that reflects the antiquated feel of the minorities, primarily because it served as a merchant Visitors who want something more than a casual walk square. Next time you find yourself in Monastiraki, take a trade center. through the area can also catch an evening sunset view of turn south and you will discover another side of Athens. the Acropolis from the rooftop of Loukoumi Vintage Bar,

Exploring Olympia

In the Western , in the "Valley of Gods", lies the most celebrated sanctuary of ancient Greece, and the birthplace Delphi: of the most important athletic mega-event of all times; the Olympic Games. Olympia is one of the most well known tourist destinations in Greece, and one of the most powerful brand The Earth’s Navel names worldwide. Olympia is easily accessible from other areas of interest of Greece. It is less than 4 hours away from Athens and only 1 hour from Patras port, or Airport. There are numerous daily buses and trains that connect Athens to Olympia. Another option for getting to Olympia from Athens is to take one of the many sightseeing tours available out of Athens.

Experience living history through the priceless, but mainly free of charge offerings of the area.

The visitor can walk through the impressive ruins of the area where athletes trained and ran in the ancient stadium; just as the ancient Olympians did after their victory 3000 years ago. They can also visit the museum and get the chance to see some unbelievable sculptures such as the sculpted decoration of the temple of Zeus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the famous Hermis of Praxiteles and the statue of Nike of Paionios.

Visitors can also enjoy festivals such as the Ancient Olympia International Festival and the Alfios River Eco-festival, where they can explore the magnificent natural environment of the Alfios River, Kato Samiko’s unspoiled beach that is only 18km away, or enjoy the natural Kaiafas Thermal Spa. They can also have the option of taking part in activities such as walking along the promenade, and sports such as biking, rafting, kayak, kite- surf, etc.

By Anthe Mitrakos

Located on the Southwestern part of Mount Parnassos in is the ancient city of Delphi, famous for its oracle and the Temple of Apollo, among other features. In ancient times, the site was a major area of worship for Apollo, the god of the sun and music. In Greek mythology, it is said that Apollo slew Python, a dragon dwelling at the center of the earth, located at Delphi. Hence, Delphi has been named the “omphalos tis gis,” or the “navel of the earth,” as it was considered by the ancients. Inside the Delphic temple was the seat of Pythia, priestess at the Temple of Apollo and the most famous oracle in Ancient Greek history. Inscribed in the Temple are several statements including the famous “gnothi seauton,” or “know thyself.” Aside from the Temple, Delphi’s ancient site includes a theater, gymnasium, the Athena Pronoia Sanctuary, a restored Athenian treasury, and the Tholos, a circular building with three restored Doric columns. Among other sights, the Tholos is the most popular monument on Delphi’s grounds. In addition to hosting the most celebrated oracle in ancient times, Delphi was also a major center for athletics. Athletes from around Greece would gather at Delphi every four years to compete in the Pythian Games, one of four PanHellenic games which included the Nemean, Isthmian, and the most popular of all time, Olympic games. After having been raided by Romans, what was left of the site, including temples, statues, and art, were later destroyed by Christians in an attempt to override ancient Greek practice. Delphi then became the site of Kastri, a village that was destroyed in an earthquake and then relocated, making way for excavations that lead to the discovery of the ancient grounds and various artifacts. Today, the remains of Delphi are one of Greece’s more popular tourist attractions. THE NATIONAL HERALD, MAY 24, 2014 Tourism in Greece 3

Thessaloniki: Don’t Forget Greece’s Other Big City

Thessaloniki (520 km. north and lavishly decorated. in-square type, Agioi Apostoloi Bey Cami (15th century), the as a quarter for leisure pursuits. • Royal Theatre of Athens) is Greece’s second- • The Triumphal Arch of Ga - (1310-1314),Taxiarches (14th Aladja Imaret Cami (1484) and • The traditional markets: • Thessaloniki Concert Hall. largest city. Built near the sea lerius (Kamara), built in AD 305 century), Panagouda a three- the Yeni Cami (1902). the Modiano, which is housed A newly-built, magnificent yet (at the back of the Thermaïkos to commemorate his military aisled basilica with significant • Hamams (Turkish bath - in a rectangular building of austere, multipurpose venue for Gulf), it is a modern metropolis successes in general in the east - icons, Agios Ioannis Prodromos houses): The Pazar Hamam 1922, with pedimented facade cultural and other events. bearing the marks of its stormy ern provinces of the Roman Em - (Nymphaion),Vlatadon (15th century), the Pasha and glass roof; the Kapani or • YMCA Building, built in history and its cosmopolitan pire. monastery a 14th century foun - Hamam (15th century), Bey Vlalis market; Athonos Square 1924, with a mixture of Neo - character, which give it a special • The Rotunda is an early dation of which only the katho - Hamam (16th century), Yeni and the Louloudadika (flower colonial and Byzantinesque ar - beauty and charm. 4th century building which later likon and two cisterns within Hamam and the Yahudi markets). chitectural elements. was converted into a Christian the precinct survive, Agios Hamam. • Vasilissis Olgas Avenue, Take a tour in the center of church. Demetrios, a splendid basilica • Bezesteni, a rectangular lined with many representative MUSEUMS Thessaloniki and plan to visit its dedicated to the patron saint building with lead-covered Neoclassical buildings and ex - nearby destinations. Also, while VISIT THESSALONIKI'S and protector of the city, etc. domes and four entrances was amples of late 19th century It is worth seeing the Archae - being in Thessaloniki it is worth BYZANTINE MONUMENTS • The Byzantine walls of the built in the late fifteenth century eclectic architecture. ological Museum, the Museum going up to Halkidiki. city. and operated as a cloth market. • The central Aristotelous of Byzantine Culture, the Folk Thessaloniki, with its host of • The archaeological site in Square, surrounded by monu - and Ethnographic Museum, the VISIT THESSALONIKI'S Byzantine monuments (due to 3 Septemvriou St., with rem - DISCOVER mental buildings and open to State Museum of Contemporary ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES its significance during the nants of a cemetery basilica, a NEIGHBORHOODS AND the waterfront for a width of Art, the Teloglion Foundation of Byzantine period), justifiably is martyrion and Early Christian FOCAL POINTS IN THE CITY 100 meters. Art, the Thessaloniki Cinema • The ancient forum (dated considered an open-air museum graves. Museum, the Thessaloniki Sci - to the late 2nd or the early 3rd of Byzantine art. • The Byzantine bathhouse • The Old City (Ano Polis), OTHER MONUMENTS AND ence Center and Technology century AD) with squares, por - (late thirteenth century). in which many notable exam - BUILDINGS IN THE CITY: Museum, and more. ticos, additional buildings and Wandering through the city, • The Heptapyrgion Castle ples of Ottoman and traditional • Mylos (literally mill). An odeum (293-395 AD), the it is worthwhile to see: was raised in stages, from the Macedonian architecture still old industrial complex, built in FESTIVITIES palace complex of Galerius Max - • The churches of early years of the Byzantine Age stand, alongside humble 1924, today has been remod - imianus (4th c. AD), the ther - Acheiropoietos (5th century) a into the Ottoman period. dwellings put up by the refugees eled to house cultural events During each year, Thessa - mae, the hippodrome, the tem - three-aisled, timber-roofed who reached Thessaloniki in and leisure activities, as well as loniki hosts significant cultural ples and other monuments and basilica, the Holy Wisdom of AMAZING OTTOMAN droves, after the Greek defeat the industrial buildings of the and commercial festivities, such moveable finds (among them God (Hagia Sophia) (7th cen - MONUMENTS in Asia Minor, in 1922. old FIX Brewery and the VILKA as the Thessaloniki International mosaics of exquisite art) tury), the Panaghia (Virgin) • The historical quarter of plant. Fair (every September), the In - brought to light in excavations Chalkeon (1028), Hosios David • The White Tower (15th the Ladadika. In recent years, a • Lazarist monastery (1886) ternational Thessaloniki Film and surveys. In the South (12th century), St. Panteleimon century), the hallmark of the series of interventions to reha - by the monastic order of the Festival (every November) and Square is the famous Stoa of the (late 13th or the early 14th cen - city. bilitate the urban fabric have Brothers of Mercy, and now the International Book Fair Idols, which was two-storied tury), is of four-columned cross- • The Mosques of the Hamza helped to enhance the Ladadika used for cultural events. (every May). 4 Tourism in Greece THE NATIONAL HERALD, MAY 24, 2014

exhibit a mystic atmosphere that makes it no wonder hermit monks chose this Magical and Mystical location to be nearer to God. A striking example of architecture so well embedded in its natural surroundings, the Meteora serve as a reclusive place for prayer and spiritual meditation. The rock formations themselves are said to have emerged as a result of earthquakes and date back to the Tertiary period, or Is Simply out of this World 60 million years ago. Aside from visiting the monasteries and getting a glimpse of the traditions and rich history kept intact within the walls, the Meteora region offers the chance for a variety of adventurous activities including biking, trekking, rock climbing, horseback riding, rafting, guided tours, and other great outdoor By Anthe Mitrakos activities. For those interested in culinary experiences, the Meteora boast a variety of local food products including handmade sausages, cheese, and pies. he natural landscape of Meteora is simply out of this world. A complex of giant rocks climbing to the skies from a luscious green valley below, the With a historical heritage that dates back to prehistoric times, some notable TMeteora region is one breathtaking sight, and truly one of the most sites worth exploring in the area include the Byzantine Church of Virgin Mary, spiritual and awe-inspiring places in the world. In fact, the word “meteora” the prehistoric cave of Theopetra, and the old habitation of Kastraki village. The means “suspended in air.” nearby towns of Kalabaka and Kastraki feature visitor amenities and hotels which can host you while on your visit. To get there, you can drive of course, Located in the prefecture of in , Meteora was once home to hop on a train from Athens ( Station) to Kalabaka (about a 5-hour ride), some 30 monasteries dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries, of which most choose from various bus routes, or go by plane to Airport (then it’s about are now deserted. Keeping true to old religious traditions, the few monasteries a 2.5-hour drive to Kalabaka). still in operation attract thousands of visitors annually. They are Megalo Meteoro, Agios Stefanos, Varlaam, Agia Triada, Roussanou, and Agios Nikolaos Because of the well-kept traditions, Meteora is a humbling place to visit Panausas. especially during the Holy Week of Easter. Discover the hidden treasures of nature and unlock the mysteries of this historically significant and remarkable Rising over 400 meters above the Peneas valley and the town of Kalambaka, collection of monasteries with a visit to Meteora, which have been inscribed as a the Meteora rock pinnacles on which these monasteries were painstakingly built UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988.

There is Never a : Resplendent Dull Moment on in Beauty and Culture The Island of

By Anthe Mitrakos Pasha Mosque, House of Matei Hussein, and Βy Constantinos E. Scaros Lake Pamvotida. The beautiful nature, historic streets, and Different strokes – or Greek islands – for medieval castle of Ioannina make this city a Because of its proximity to Lake Pamvotida, different folks. Many vacationers prefer a magical place to visit in Northwestern Greece. local cuisine includes fresh-water delicacies such tranquil, sparsely-populated locale to “get away Reminiscent of a bygone era, Ioannina is a place as trout, eels, and frogs. Traditional Ioannina from it all.” Others, however, think they want rich in history, local tradition and culture, sweets known throughout Greece include the that – but really miss the commotion of including Christian, Jewish and Islamic Sker Bourek, a sugar pie, the Klostari, a cylinder everyday city life. The action, the beeping horns, influence. The essence of Ali Pasha and his love shaped pastry with walnuts and syrup. the narrow streets – clearly not designed for cars for the beautiful and intelligent Kyra Frosini, his Ioannina also produces an alcohol-free liqueur – struggling to accommodate both vehicle and notorious mistress, resonate in his home, which based on a mixture of nectar, fruit syrups, and pedestrian. is now a museum open to visitors. Among herbs. various unique attractions and sites to visit at For those Type A personalities who want to this picturesque destination are the ancient Founded in the 6th century by the Byzantine spice up their relaxation with just the right theater of Dodona, the city’s medieval fortress, Emperor Justinian, Ioannina, also known as amount of angst, Kos is the place. the Ethnographic Museum of Ioannina, the Veli Giannena, is the largest city in .

Like all the Greek islands – the skies are blue, spare. Arriving to ’ port to board the A major center of the Modern Greek the beaches are wonderful, and there are plenty catamaran was easy, and the high-speed sail, Enlightenment with a bustling community of of secluded pockets. But in many respects, Kos is just under two hours was, literally and wealthy Byzantine families who had fled a “mini-Rhodes,” much like New Jersey is a figuratively, a breeze. Constantinople, Ioannina eventually “mini-New York.” But, just as New Jersey is the surrendered to the Ottoman Empire in 1430, most densely-populated state, Kos is the most Once we got to Kos, the port was filled with and the city remained under the rule of the local densely-populated island, if not of gaggles of tourists, frenetic dock workers, and Pasha until 1868, eventually joining Greece in all Greek islands overall. It is, for example, cab drivers scurrying to claim the next fare. Our 1913. about a fifth the size of Rhodes – which is also cabbie drove us through streets packed with quite densely populated – but its population is coffee shops, clothing stores, business offices – greater than a fifth of Rhodes’. you name it, all densely crammed together.

A stone’s throw (especially if you’re Poseidon KARDAMENA HANGOVER trying to fend off Polybotes) from Kos and Kardamena in the early morning hours – Rhodes are some of those quiet islands, when the ferries leave for Nisyros – looks like a exquisite dots that adorn the pristine blue sleepy little town. Quite the opposite of its . Nisyros, Symi, Tilos, Chalki…So, “Party Central” mode, with dance clubs and perhaps the best way to really understand Kos is other hot spots geared toward youth – that to experience the frenzied Rhodes-to-Nisyros via doesn’t stop until the sun comes up. Kos excursion. Gazing at the deserted morning streets and WOW – WHAT WAS THAT? the unlit neon signs of the numerous nightclubs, A few years ago, with wife, baby, and infant one can only imagine that Kardamena’s late- in tow, we left Rhodes en route to Nisyros – but night crowd is nowhere close to waking up – there were no direct boats that day. (Nisyros and probably will rise many hours later, to begin doesn’t have a field wide enough on which to another 15-hour stint of fun – perhaps from land a plane, so there’s no airport). Particularly 2PM to 5AM. because we were traveling with an infant, we sought the easiest way to get there – which is We boarded the Nisyros-bound Ferry, and got usually directly by catamaran – though there to relax for the first time that day, as we enjoyed were no direct ones that day, either. the sun-soaked sky and watched the small Aegean waves foam and bubble as the Ferry The next-best solution was to take a swooshed them out of its way. catamaran from Rhodes to Kos, and then a South-veering cab ride from Kos Town to the I knew then and there, relaxation – and port of Kardamena, where a ferry ride to Nisyros plenty of it – was what I’d find on Nisyros (save would be a quick, soothing 45 minute voyage. for the August 12-15 Panagias crowd – that’s how it always is on Nisyros – quiet). Part of me The main difference between Rhodes’ and looked forward to that – another part wondered Kos’ energy is that Rhodes is big enough to whether I could have used a larger dose of Kos’ house all of the commotion with more room to commotion. THE NATIONAL HERALD, MAY 24, 2014 Tourism in Greece 5

Skiathos’ Little-known Little Version If you think you’ve discovered a hidden treasure in (see for those who want a complete respite from the hustle and bustle. article below), the nearby island of offers the same And while you’re there, indulge in a few jars of Skopelos’ incred - wondrous waters and lush greenery, in even quieter surroundings ible honey – and bring some home for souvenirs. There are Green Greek Islands, and then There’s Skiathos

By Constantinos E. Scaros my second wind upon feeling the Skiathian island breeze. In most parts of the world, including much of the United States, one can opt for 1) lush green I checked into my room at the Skiathos landscape; or 2) predominantly warm, dry, and Palace situated atop the magnificent sunny days – but not both in the same place. But Koukounaries Beach – but don’t let the name on the Greek island of Skiathos, you can truly fool you: though pricey compared to the “Rooms have the best of both worlds. to Let” options, the cost is hardly bank-breaking.

Having grown up in New York City, summer Too excited to sleep, I took a walk along the trips upstate, to the Catskill Mountains, gave me beach, captivated by the sweet aroma of my a fill of green – true thick, lush, green combined surroundings: a pine tree forest along landscape. But hardly any great beaches to the Aegean Sea. speak of, and not enough sunny days, free of plans ruined by the rain. Skiathos turned out to be everything I could have hoped for, and more. The food was Other summer trips, to Greece, brought me excellent and reasonably priced. The beaches to plenty of great beaches, and without a cloud were what you might expect in Greece: in the sky, let alone even a drop of rain falling outstanding. And what impressed me a great from it. Nonetheless, I remember politely deal was the “Skiathites” – the Skiathos locals – nodding when my relatives would point to the who overall are a very friendly and polite bunch. landscape and exclaim: “ti wraia prasinada – what beautiful greenery.” I was only there for a few days and didn’t rent a car. I could have made an entire vacation Don’t get me wrong – I love Greece, have And then, it happened: the summer of 2005, of it at the Palace, but decided to explore the always loved vacationing there, and wouldn’t when I found myself with enough time to take rest of the island. Transportation (buses and trade the glorious blue water and blue sky for an extended Greek vacation. I bought a travel taxis) was plentiful, and getting around the anything. But while there are many flattering guide to the Greek islands, just so I could island was quite easy. words I would use to describe Greece, “green” is explore new ones, flipped it open, and could not certainly not one of them! believe my eyes: it was an incredible photograph One place I didn’t get to go was Lalaria. A of the beautiful blue Greek sea that I have come spectacular beach (from what I’ve seen in So as not to offend, I would keep my to know and love, yet it was surrounded by real, photos and heard from people who have been) comments to myself, or share them exclusively lush greenery – the Catskills kind, not the Greek that place? Skiathos. accessible by boat. I had planned that trip for with my friends and family who live in the kind. my last full day on the island, but it was United States. “This is NOT ‘prasinada,’ it’s not It is an island in the Northern – just unusually windy that day and the boats were lush green, it’s stone-washed denim green, “Wow! Great beaches AND lush greenery! a half hour flight from Athens. After having not sailing there. rocks, and hay.” Does it have a rugged beauty to The ‘surf and turf’ of vacation spots!” I thought spent a few days in the sweltering Athens heat it – like, say, the Arizona desert? Sure. But it’s to myself. “I don’t know where this place is, but upon my arrival to Greece that year, I took a late The bright side of that, of course, is – now I’ll not a green beauty. I’m going,” I decided. And I did. Oh, the name of evening flight to Skiathos and immediately got have to go back! Hopefully, someday soon.

Waterfalls are Found In Greece, too

For those of you who think you have to travel to Canada or Yosemite Park to get your fill (or fall?) of cascading water, or even further to Brazil or India, fret not – as Edessa in Northern Greece is an ideal locale for waterfall enthusiasts. Beauty aside, an added bonus is that even in the middle of summer, the misty Sivota: Greece’s other Luxury Land falls and surrounding There’s a reason tourists flock to , , Rhodes, San - torini, and a handful of other high-profile destination spots year plantlife keep after year – because they live up to their reputation. But if you temperatures want to be a little different without compromising a bit on a lux - delightfully urious vacation in a gorgeous setting, go west, young man (or woman)! Sivota, on the Ionian Island of Lefkada, is your answer. comfortable. Incomparable Nisyrian Moon

By Constantinos E. Scaros If we were to look at matters objectively, we might ask ourselves: “with so many great places “There’s no place like home” is a phrase used to visit in Greece, why would someone choose by , Americans, and people of various other (insert place here)?” countries throughout the world. It speaks to a bond with one’s native land. So, of hundreds of islands and villages at a traveler’s disposal – why Nisyros? Greeks of Greece and the Diaspora have their favorite “homes,” too – their own little corner of For one thing, its diminutive size and popula - Greece they boast is “the best!” tion makes it quaint and charming. The island has one ATM machine, and no traffic lights. The water is visible from almost every spot, and the sparkling white roads and houses make the island look so clean, crisp, and beautiful as it is sur - rounded by beautiful blue Aegean Sea.

For those who love the earth’s natural and rugged beauty, there are the majestic volcano and the therapeutic mineral baths.

But if there is one experience that makes the Nisyrian experience unforgettable, it is the moon. “The Nisyrian moon,” that is, which seems a moon so close to the island, that it is actually as if it is being supported by the church’s bell tower. Instead, travelers usually take a ferry over from part of it. As if the earth has two moons: one for nearby Kos (45 minutes), or a large ship (3 hours) Nisyros, and another for the rest of the planet. It is a sight to behold – so fantastic that it or catamaran (2 hours) from Rhodes. looks as if it were a painting rather than a scene On a summer night in the capital village of right before one’s very eyes. Naturally, from pristine secluded beaches to Mandraki, while sitting at an outdoor rustic mom-and-pop , there is a lot more restaurant/bar as the sea’s waves gently splash Getting to this “land that time forgot” is a lot to do on Nisyros than moongaze. along the shoreline rocks a few steps below, one easier than one would think, considering that can gaze up at the Panagia Spiliani, a 600+ year- there is no airport – there isn’t a field wide Nonetheless, you might want to plan your trip old church built inside cave high above ground enough, long enough, or flat enough on the whole to coincide with the next “moon over Spiliani.” level, illuminated and gleaming, as the moon – island that can accommodate a plane landing. depending on its positioning – peers just above it, 6 Tourism in Greece THE NATIONAL HERALD, MAY 24, 2014 Myrtos Beach On Kefalonia Myrtos beach on the island of Kefalonia receives awards every year and features in travel guides the world over. It is considered one of the most beautiful beaches on earth. Just 30 kilometres from Argostoli, the beauty of the landscape, pure white pebbles and heavenly waters are breathtaking.

Zakynthos: An Ionian Gem

Crystal clear waters, a breathtaking natural environment, and an exciting nightlife are what make Zakynthos one of Greece’s most popular island getaways. Also known as Zante, Zakynthos is home to a number of beautiful coves and caves, which serve as a habitat of the Greek sea turtle Carreta.

On the West coast of Zakynthos, tucked away in a cove known as Navagio Bay, are the remains of the Panagiotis. Legend has it that the Panagiotis was a smuggling ship carrying cigarettes, wrecked in the process of avoiding local authorities in the early 1980s. Because of its seemingly perfect placement in the cove, a truly picturesque scene, some believe the ship was set there purposely as a tourist attraction.

Nevertheless, the ship and beach are a precious sight to see, and an even greater experience up close. Steep cliffs surround this secluded area, while bright white pebbles below enhance the wonderfully turquoise waters that add that extra special touch to a great visit. What : a Greek makes the bay even more distinctive is the fact that it is accessible only by water, oftentimes visited by tourist ferryboats and private yachts. A viewing platform above the cove makes for great memorable Island with an photographs, and a breathtaking view of the Panagiotis and Navagio Bay. Italian Flavor The shipwreck is a piece of art in itself, as visitors over the years have left their initials, messages, and marks etched in its rusty walls. Aside from swimming in breathtaking waters, exploring the wreckage of the With the passage of time the island boat is yet another one-of-a- may have changed, but we can still kind experience this unique feel the spirit of a distant glorious location offers lucky visitors. past. Its rich multicultural heritage, Some of the most avid its historic monuments, its stunning tourists, especially Italians, natural landscape, its crystal clear love to climb onto the ghost seas, and its excellent weather all year ship, at their own risk of round explain why Corfu is one of the course. most cosmopolitan Mediterranean destinations weaving a powerful spell In summertime, the cove on its visitors. and shipwreck attract thousands of tourists. To Corfu (Kérkyra), unlike the rest of avoid large crowds during Greece, never fell under the Ottoman peak season, it is best to oppression. Due to the successive visit early in the morning or dominations of the Venetians, the later in the evening. The French and the British over the cen - beach is bereft of turies, the island has primarily be - restaurants or cafes, so it is come part of the Western rather the suggested you visit fully Levantine world. Their culture equipped with anything you wielded strong influence in the city: may need, and plan on it was here that the first Greek Uni - taking it back with you, as there is also no garbage can versity (the Ionian Academy), the first Philharmonic Orchestra and the First School of Fine Arts were founded. around! Various ferryboat tours leading to the In the beautifully preserved Old Town of Corfu, a UNESCO world heritage site, Renaissance, Baroque and Classical shipwreck also include visits “repertoire” came to be successfully applied to local artistic traditions. Palaces, fortresses, austere public buildings of to nearby and equally the Venetian rule uniquely blend with lines of drying laundry in tiny alleyways and small secluded squares. Strolling stunning areas known as through a complex of narrow cobbled streets with stairways and vaulted passages, the so-called “kantonia”, will make the Blue Caves. you feel as if you’ve traveled to Genoa or Naples.

Amazing Lefkada

By Marguerite Gallorini Like many other Greek glittering lightly on the clear islands, Lefkada has been water below. Arriving at the “For me, Lefkada is the occupied many times: house on the very top of the greatest place on Earth. It has Mycenaeans, Corinthians, village, he presents me to his the sea, the sun, mountains Romans, Venetians, Ottomans, grandmother who lives just and snow, and all very close,” British...something still felt in underneath my room, a sweet tells me my renter. Indeed the the island's plural architecture. Greek yiayia, dressed all in Western Greek Ionian island It is notably during the black, who does not speak one has something for everyone. occupation of the Corinthians word of English. that a bridge was built to link Lefkada is a concentration the island to continental Hiking down and up the hill of diverse heavenly landscapes Greece, which today has been is a real treat: scented pines, and peaceful spots, beautiful replaced by a floating bridge, trees, fields with the hiking trails, and little making it therefore very easy occasional grazing donkey, a picturesque villages where you to come by bus or by car to this view of the never-ending sea will easily be in touch with the piece of paradise. just below...Down the hill a local population. The Northern little white chapel stands on capital offers visits of its castle, Arriving in the capital, the side of the road among the museums and, just a few miles Lefkas, I sink in a bit of history olive trees' invading branches, away, the ancient and first city by visiting the beautiful ruins facing the sea. Kalamitsi beach of the island, Nirikos. But for of its Venetian castle, Holy is definitely worth the trip. I those less prone to history, Black, just across the bridge. have never seen a shade of spots along the port offer Enclosed within fortifications, blue so bright, even in ad amazing views of the mountain it spreads on green grass with campaigns. just across the bridge, and little white-grey rocks making up a constructed in the Middle Ages But the city center is also cooked. beaches are reachable nearby. maze of demolished walls, by John Orsini, Count of worth the walk, with its maze At my return, the stairs leading nowhere, almost Kefalonia. Inside, the dim of sunbathed pedestrian Then I go only a dozen grandmother greets me The island abounds with undamaged battlements and golden pictures and humble streets, made up of typical miles away to Kalamitsi, a warmly; we exchange a few monasteries: hikes into the series of open windows with a wooden furniture agree with Southern bright and warm typical Greek village on top of words and, visibly happy to island's luxurious forest and up stunning sight on the the simple beauty of the old colors and where you will meet a hill with pretty little have some company, she gives to the mountain village of mountains, and on the forgotten rocks outside in a friendly wandering cat every cobblestoned streets, tavernas me four eggs from her own Karia; beautiful sceneries turquoise sea and thin white- broad daylight. I am even ten minutes. Most of all, one where you can meet the hens and a bottle of divine mixing mountainscapes and sanded beaches. finding myself the only visitor can only feel the attractive residents and enjoy traditional homemade that smells seascapes all along the Western there, adding to an general atmosphere of a coffee shops and small grocery so good I would want to drink coast; the impressive cape of There on a corner of what irrepressible serene feeling of tranquil life going on, on a stores. My renter there kindly it all up at once. Back in my Lefkada “Cape White,” South used to be the big central being alone in the world, background of televisions proposes to pick me up in room, enjoying the last night of Vasiliki, where the female room, I notice the little Church swallowed up by the charm of heard from within the homes Lefkas, and the car ride itself is on the island, I let the poet Sappho allegedly leapt to of Agias Mavras, that gave its the island's nature and the mixed with the sound and worthwhile, passing by peacefulness of the place fill her death to escape her own name to the castle by peacefulness of these smell of delicious spiced magnificent seascapes from the me before going back to work love for Phaon... extension, and which was centuries-old walls. Mediterranean dishes being height of bushy hills, the sun on the morrow. THE NATIONAL HERALD, MAY 24, 2014 Tourism in Greece 7 Chios: Greece’s Best-Kept Secret

By Constantinos E. Scaros seated quickly in a restaurant, or obtain an umbrella on the If the game $25,000 beach. Pyramid, made famous by Dick Clark, had “Places in Greece” Another reason, particularly as an answer choice, among appealing to Americans, is that the likely clues would be: most of the tourists there will Athens, Parthenon, Rhodes, be other Americans. Greek- Crete, Mykonos, , Americans, to be exact. So for Corfu and Peloponnese. Hardly any non-Greek American wary anyone would mention hidden about the language barrier, gems like Alonissos, there’s a better chance that a Kastellorizo, or Samothraki. gaggle of Americans will be on And wonderful though those hand on Chios than on many of three islands are, they are the other Greek islands that mere dots on typical Map of are most often inhabited by Greece placemat found in Swedes, Norwegians, Italians, many a , often and Danes. so small they go unnamed. Then, there is the all- That a much bigger dot, important reason of climate. however – a blotch, really, and Known as the “Island of the one that looks very much like Wind,” Chios is pleasantly the State of New Jersey, and is breezy in the hot summer actually the fifth-largest island months, when some of the in all of Greece – is relatively islands to the South are unknown to tourists, renders it sweltering saunas. Sure, if Rhodes: a Diamond-Shaped Greek Island – Chios, that is – an excellent Chios’ waters are a little too candidate to be proclaimed chilly for swimming in April, Greece’s best-kept secret. the Dodecanese may be the better call. But during the peak Contains the World’s Most Accessible City Oh, there are plenty of vacation months, July and Greek-Americans who visit August, the water is just fine – Chios year in, year out. But and so is the midday most of them have their roots temperature. By Constantinos E. Scaros Unfortunately, some bigoted locals won’t The options about where to stay in there. Comparatively fewer of sample the island’s best ice cream because Rhodes are virtually endless, but for the them, and fewer non-Greeks Finally, there is the variety For those who have never been to it is made by “Turks.” It’s their loss – more optimal experience, it is all about location, yet, utter the words “hey, why of things to do. A pre- or post- Rhodes, the most applicable illustration ice cream for the rest of us. If they are so location, location. The Hotel International don’t we go to Chios” when beach lunch in Katarraktis might be to compare it to is to describe hung up on national pride, then I suggest for instance, is not by any means Rhodes’ formulating their Greece travel makes for the quintessential New York State in its splendiferous they channel their energy into making a most luxurious hotel – that honor is plans. Greek island experience: 1) entirety, and then to emphasize that at its better product. reserved for spots such as the Rodos one tip sits New York City, the center of Palace, the Olympic Palace, the Hilton, and the world and a complete antithesis to the In the meantime, you’ll find the rest of the Mira Mare. But unlike those exquisite rest of the vast, picturesque, and us at STANH for our daily taste thank you vacation havens, it is within walking comparatively rural state. That’s what very much. For the best possible distance to all of what I have described; Rhodes Town is like, sitting at the tip of experience, try the store at Agia Anastasia you would have to take a cab back and Rhodes Island. Street, near the Diagoras Stadium. That’s forth from the others. Objectively where the ice cream is made fresh, many speaking, staying at a place in the heart of But New York, arguably, is only the times per day. Because no preservatives things – whether it’s the International or world’s second-most accessible city. The are added, it tastes best the moment it one of a handful of other locales – is the first is Rhodes. Rhodes Town, particularly comes out of the mixer. If need be, stick best way to fully appreciate the world’s the center (“to kentro”) has everything around and wait for your favorite flavor. It most accessible city. one could ever want within walking is well worth the wait. distance, even more so than Manhattan: Rhodes has come a long way from the fantastic beaches, wonderful eateries – For those of you who enjoy the music of early 1980s, when there was a dance club ranging from fancy restaurants, the Rolling Stones, the Beatles, Eric (they called them “discothèques” back spectacular mom-and-pop finds, and an Clapton, Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, Deep them) on every corner and toga parties on array of fast-food joints for the less Purple , the Doors, the Eagles, Fleetwood the beaches at night. It is a more reserved discriminating diners – chic shoppes that Mac, Credence Clearwater Revival, and a island now, with most of the late-night would rival some of the world’s most host of other classic rock bands from the partying confined to the multi-ethnic Bar touted shopping districts, and even a 60s and 70s, you will be hard pressed to Street, or the locally-dominated Old Town. casino. find a better band in the world that plays Nowadays, residents and less ambitious all of these classics than the trio known tourists alike can get a quiet night’s sleep if That an island as large as arrive at the and order What makes Rhodes stand out even informally as the Tres Hombres at Sticky they so choose. Chios is so devoid of tourists, some mezedes; 2) order a more, in a surprising way, is two of life’s Fingers. Named after the Stones’ album of however, does not mean it is bottle of and a bucket of simple pleasures: ice cream and classic the same name, this rock club just And if you manage to stay in Rhodes not worth visiting. Quite the ice; 3) take it a few feet down rock. In each case, Rhodes has, far and celebrated its 35th anniversary. for a nice, long jaunt – say, ten days or opposite, in fact. to the beach and set it aside; 4) away, the best of both. Not just in Greece, Founded by Manoli and Costa Iraclides, more – you might get tired of “the big city jump in the water to cool off but in the entire world. two Greek-born, African-raised brothers routine” and opt to take a trip to one of WHY NOT CHIOS? for a couple of minutes; 5) who returned to their roots, Sticky Fingers the vast island’s numerous idyllic rural But if Chios is worth visiting come out of the water, sit If you can picture a velvet cloud is truly a rock and roll institution. beach towns. – for reasons we will explore down to dry off in the warm descend from the sky, taste like vanilla, Costa sings a staggering amount of Such as Gennadi, which is a good 90 later – then why don’t more sun, and pour yourself a glass chocolate, yogurt praline, cookie dough, different songs and plays bass and acoustic minutes South of Rhodes Town. It features tourists go there? That’s just it of ouzo on the rocks; 6) when wild cherry, or an array of other mouth- guitar, while Taki plays a lead guitar so a spectacular, sprawling beach that is – unlike other islands that you’re done – pour a second watering flavors, then you must have chilling that you can close your eyes and quiet, free of the tourist mayhem. depend on tourists to survive one, or come back up to your eaten at STANH (pronounced “STAH- imagine that you’re listening to the and thrive, Chios does not. table – your meal will be nee”), Rhodes’ premier ice cream parlor. original. His lead vocals are outstanding To put it another way, if you were to There’s a lot of money on waiting! Interestingly, the multiple-location too, by the way. Mitso rounds out the band build the quintessential island that had Chios, from shipping to the franchise is owned by locals who are the on drums, and Manoli usually stops by to a little something for everyone, it would be cultivation of masticha trees – Take a walk through descendants of Ibrahim Sari-Hassan, the do a few Stones songs, with every bit the hard to imagine finding a better one than which only seem to grow Aplotaria, a street closed to Turk who founded the business. heart and soul of Mick Jagger. Rhodes. correctly on that island, and traffic during certain hours of specifically in the Southern the day, so that shoppers can region, in fact. Chians, then walk from store to store. And can take or leave tourists. there are stores of all kinds, Generally a very friendly one right next to the other. bunch, local Chians will make tourists – Greek and non-Greek Climb to the top of alike – feel right at home. But Avgonima and partake in an they won’t go out of their way incredible meal with a to generate tourism, either. If mountainous view from every the tourists happen to show up angle. Drive down to Vroulidia – then so be it. –at the island’s Southernmost tip – for a secluded swim the WHY CHIOS? next day, and stop by Mavra Now that we’ve covered Volia – the black rocks beach why Chios is such a “well-kept where the water is the crispest secret,” what is it that makes it and coolest for the ultimate in worthwhile to visit? Why refreshing sea experiences. Chios, as opposed to so many other Greek islands from which For a combination of to choose? One of the variety, comfortable attractions, in fact, is the lack temperatures, plenty of good of tourism. Its ample size, beaches and restaurants, and coupled with only modest warm, friendly locals, few tourism, makes it quite places in Greece offer all those comfortable and spacious, easy things, and more, as well as to find a room or rent a car, be does Chios.

Lesbos: Where the Owls Fall from the Trees

By Aurelia Smeltz enough and strong enough to fly away. Owls have many moods and are to be avoided when they are annoyed, but the The island of Lesvos has several species Despite the fact that the owl was writer says most of the time “they were of owls, but in the villages of Vatousa and considered a sign of wisdom in antiquity, playful as kittens.” He estimates that he Xidera you will find an inordinately large in many Greek villages today the owl is raised eleven owls, although villagers give population of the Scops Owl, all because considered a symbol of bad luck. Children larger numbers. Since that fateful summer several years ago on a hot summer day a are taught to avoid the bird at all costs. day when the first baby owl fell from the baby Scops fell out of a tree. Villagers The writer saw children running from him tree, the Scopes Owl population in delight in telling the tale to tourists and in terror when they saw him holding the Vatousa and nearby Xidera has grown the actual size of the owl population owl. Gradually, curiosity grew and when exponentially. seems to get larger with each telling. Here no ill will came to the man, the attitude of is the back story: the villagers and children changed. Lesvos is indeed a “birdwatcher’s paradise,” and a bonus is an explosion of A writer from the States rented a home Apparently it was rather common for wild flowers in the Spring. Purchase a copy for the summer near the kafenion in the the little owls to fall from trees and soon, of Richard Brooks guide “Birding in Lesvos” Platia in the village of Vatousa. One day instead of ignoring them, the villagers by sending an email to email@richard- while sipping his cappuccino and minding carefully cradled them in their arms and brooks.co.uk and head for Lesvos. He says his own business, a baby owl fell from its brought them to the writer’s home where the very best place to see large varieties of nest in the tree above and landed at his owls were flying about or resting on a birds on Lesvos is at Skala Kaloni, but if you feet. The kindly man took the tiny bird large rock in the kitchen. fancy the Scops Owl, by all means pay a home and cared for him until he was well visit to Vartousa and Xidera. 8 Tourism in Greece THE NATIONAL HERALD, MAY 24, 2014

In Crete’s Mountains – The Legend of the 12 Archontopoula

By Aurelia Smeltz their true lineage. What is this tantalizing legend? What is truth consider just two to be the most interesting. and what is fiction? These two documents, however, contain historical information If you are fortunate enough to visit one of the remote mountain Let us go back in time to the 12th Century in Constantinople, that historians consider “mutually irreconcilable.” One document villages of Crete, and if you are not fluent in the language, but then known as Byzantium, when Byzantium ruled Crete. It is said actually has the notation “Falsification,” and there are three versions have the services of a local translator, you will hear one of the there was unrest in Crete. Most believe there was a rebellion. And of the second, two written in Greek and one in Italian, but only most fascinating stories ever told. The tale has been transmitted as so, the story or legend goes, a Byzantine emperor sent the heads one of them (Greek) is dated. Historians cannot agree on whether “oral history” for years in the mountain tavernas, but it is usually of twelve noble Byzantine families to settle in Crete and he divided the documents are authentic or “suspect.” told as though it happened yesterday. the island amongst them. The largest piece, which included , It is a fact, however, that by the beginning of the 13th Century It is the compelling and intriguing tale of The Legend of the went to a man named Skordylis. certain Cretan families owned much land, lived as landed aristoc - Twelve Archontopoula. While much of the story is unauthenticated, At some point, most likely during the time of Venetian rule, a racy and led revolts against the Venetians. it has captured the attention of professional and amateur historians, claim was made that there was an official document (an order) Whether they were actually sent here originally by an emperor genealogists, sociologists, mystery lovers, and a large number of signed by an emperor. The document was called a chrysobull has not been proven. Whether an “order” or chrysobull was ever Cretans. (golden seal) and it gave the twelve men royal lineage. The chrysob - issued has not been proven. And whether they were of “great and While many Cretans claim they are descendants of one of the ull has never been found, but there are six documents concerning noble birth” is not known, but it makes for one of the most fasci - twelve, there are some actual descendants who are not aware of the Archontopoula that have been published; of the six, historians nating stories still told in the tavernas in the mountains of Crete. The Peloponnese’s Corinthian Tip

By Constantine S. Sirigos continued on to Rome, and today the Cathedral of St. Paul is a fine modern adaptation of The Peloponnese is filled with remarkable Byzantine architecture. places, well worth an extensive trip, but visitors on a day drip from Athens who set foot on its History tends to repeat itself in Corinth, and Northeast corner at Corinth can get a taste of not its happiest moments. The original ancient the whole, with mountains cascading down to city was destroyed by the Roman consul Lucius wonderful beaches, fascinating historical sites Mummius in 146 BC, who also killed the men and plenty of entertainment and good food at and sold the women and children into slavery. the local tavernas, bars, and cafes. For the next 100 years, only a handful of squatters lived there, but in 44 BC Julius Caesar St. Paul could not stay away from the rebuilt the city St. Paul eventually found. important ancient entrepot of Corinth. After 18 months there he did not want to leave, but his After an earthquake leveled the modern town fellow Jews had him arrested for preaching that developed around the second Ancient about Christ – although the city’s widely reputed Corinth, Nea Korinthos was founded in 1858. licentiousness was also on his agenda. Economic decline occurred between ancient The Roman governor released him and he and modern times, and even prior to the economic crisis, Modern The Picturesque Port of Poros Corinth, which had become a major manufacturing center, began to deindustrialize again. By Anthe Mitrakos Stare out from the port into the distance to watch one of the most beautiful sunsets you'll Jobs are still scarce, but Each offering their own flavor and tradition, see, and look for the Sleeping Beauty...a set of tourists are flocking there. Greek islands are magical destinations to mountains that from that angle look like a The most famous experience during all times of the year. If you reclining woman. attraction is the Canal that prefer the waterside to mountain villages, then was conceived by the island hopping may be your definition of a Discover the ancient history and local island ancients and carved out of perfect getaway. The island of Poros in the Argo- traditions with a visit to the Archeological and the rock of the Saronic Gulf is close to Athens, yet so far away. Folklore Museums. Trek out to the ruins of Peloponnese in 1893. The charming port of Poros is among the most Poseidon’s Temple, dating back to 520 BC, the lovely in Greece, as it is traditionally packed Russian Naval Base, the Residence of Governor Another example of with seafaring vessels of all sorts during the Ioannis Kapodistrias, and the Zoodohos Pigi Corinthian foreshadowing sailing season, while picturesque houses line the Monastery. – there is now a railway background of this lively waterfront. bridge across the canal – Poros is also unique in that it is split between was the Diolkos, a track Sailing into Poros port during dusk or dawn, two islands connected by a small bridge. The way cut into stone, unique the mellowing pastel hues of periwinkle, dusty larger part called Kalavria, is very green and full in the ancient world, blue, light pink, and contrasting yellow-orange of pine forests, while Sferia, the volcanic part of across which ships were make for a memorable relaxing scene. And with Poros, serves as the port and main tourist hauled in lieu of the its characteristic clock tower marking the port's attraction. unbuilt canal. highest point in the distance, a visit to Poros island will surely be remembered. Beaches here include the organized Askeli Guests will find Beach, the pine-tree filled Love Bay, and sandy numerous ancient sites in Once on land, the clock tower's bell chimes Megalo Neorio. Watersports including skiing and various states of ruin that will follow you around the port early in the parasailing are a favorite among summer are nevertheless romantic morning and well into the night. visitors. prospects amid hills and meadows. The port of Poros is host to a number of For more seaside exploring, nearby islands in restaurants, cafes, bars, and clubs, which allow the Argo-Saronic (Argolic Gulf and Saronic The view of the entire for a seamless transition from dinner to drinks Gulf) include , Spetses, and . Poros region – sea, mountains, and music until the early morning. can be reached from Athens by car and then and valleys and nearby with a ferryboat across from Galatas town, or by islands – the acropolis of Watch a film at the outdoor cinema, look for boat from the port of Piraeus, about a 55-minute Corinth, the Acrocorinth the perfect souvenir at a variety of local shops, ride in a catamaran or hydrofoil. Or you can be that rises 1800 feet from or explore the winding stone paths of this super cool and sail in for a couple days! the surrounding plain and amphitheatrically-built port neighborhood on was once the home of a your way to a breathtaking panoramic view Whether looking for a relaxing beach Temple of Aphrodite, is from the Poros clock tower. And don't forget getaway or an interesting stroll around town, breathtaking. your camera! Poros island welcomes you.

Sifnos: Stairway to Heaven

By Aurelia Smeltz

Of all the islands in the Western , some say Sifnos may be the most “spiritual.” There is a church with fresco interiors where it is said angels come to sing before the priest starts his service, there is a bay so serene it appears to kneel before you, and there is a stairway beside a brilliant, white-washed monastery that is rumored to lead to, well… heaven.

And all of these enchanting places are easily accessible from Dina’s Rooms in the island’s main port of Kamares. Dina’s rooms are on a horseshoe-shaped bay on the quiet side of the gentle body of brilliant blue-green water. It is a perfect setting for those wanting peace and solitude, but just a short walk to the shops and tavernas and the bus stop across the bay. During the day, one can sunbathe on the veranda (or on the nearby beach or rocks just minutes away) and in the evening it is pleasant to view the bright lights of the tavernas and the famous “Captain’s Bar,” on the other side. Yachtsmen come from all over Greece to have a drink with the captain and party into early morning hours. Guests at Dina’s are happy they are on the opposite side of the bay!

The Arguras Restaurant and Taverna is next to Dina’s Rooms and it is without a doubt the best restaurant in Kamares and one of the best dining spots on the entire island. Fresh fish is served daily and the catch comes directly from the morning boats. Arguras, the owner, will grill a fish to perfection and his wife, Stella, makes a variety of Greek specialties for the afternoon and evening meals. Guests are invited into the kitchen to make their selections.

Sifnos is a mountainous island with small valleys filled with olive and almond trees and numerous beaches with thin, golden sand. It has a triangular shape of seventy-four square miles and a perimeter of twenty-eight miles.

Kamares is centrally located and a bus near the newsstand will take one to many points, including the port of Faros, within ten to twenty minutes. Photographers come from all over the world to take pictures of the famous monasteries, particularly the Monastery of Panaghia Chryssopighi, a magnificent Sifnos is approximately five hours by boat from Piraeus, and the trip is shorter by Flying Dolphin. snow-white structure with the stairway to heaven. It sits dramatically on a rock that some say was Connections can be made easily to the nearby islands of , , Kythnos, Serifos, Folegandros, split during a miracle performed by the Virgin Mary, patron saint and protector of the island. Sikinos, and Santorini. Boats also leave regularly for Crete, Ios, and the Dodecanese. THE NATIONAL HERALD, MAY 24, 2014 Tourism in Greece 9 Santorini - An Aegean Gem

By Anthe Mitrakos Or visit the various archaeological sites including Pyrgos, Emporio, , Kamari, and Monolithos. Taking a ride around the From its legendary connection to mythical island you will notice vast vineyards that Atlantis, to breathtaking sunsets, unique thrive in the island's volcanic soil. With a architecture, and rich local traditions, you're wine-making tradition that dates back to bound to fall in love with one of Santorini ancient times, the island is host to a number island's exceptional qualities. With some of of local wineries that are open to the public, the most dreamy scenes on the planet, it's serving as restaurants and museums, so no wonder this island is known for its there is much to explore (and drink) when romantic aura, and has become a popular venturing off to the various island towns. wedding destination in recent years. Just don't drink and drive! Known for its special local wine varieties, Santorini Also known as (door), crescent- produces , Aidani, and shaped Santorini and its small group of Maurotragano wines, among others. islands (Thira, Thirassia, Aspronissi, Palea Paradise for culinary enthusiasts and Kameni, and Nea Kameni) actually make up foodies alike, local Santorini cuisine active volcano in the Aegean Sea. In fact, includes recipes using traditional products these small islands were born of volcanic like fava, white , cherry tomatoes, activity throughout time, one eruption of and . which is credited to have wiped out the great Minoan civilization in Crete roughly As for the waterfront, a variety of volcanic 3,600 years ago. And the most recent pebbles and rock formations adorn the volcanic activity occurred as recently as beaches of Santorini. Enjoy the black, white, 1950! The fact that this picturesque island is and red sand assortment this island boasts part of a living volcano adds that special when taking a dip in salty waters. touch to every visit to Santorini. Today, the area's water-covered Caldera, a cauldron- Thira is accessible by plane at Santorini like formation shaped by the collapse of airport, or by boat at the Athinios or Skala land following a volcanic eruption, has ports. The town of Fira can then be accessed depth of roughly 400 meters below sea level. by cable car, foot, or for a more amusing experience, by traditional Santorini donkey So when you're not fearing of another rides! Distinct whitewashed homes and eruption, what's there to do on Santorini structures, specialty cuisine, and gorgeous besides capture some astonishing views on views make Santorini a must-see Greek camera? Rent a car and explore the island's island in the Aegean. Experience the charm towns, including Oia, Akrotiri, Imerovili, and elegance of this unique gem with an and Fira, the charming capital of Santorini. unforgettable visit.

Mykonos is a piece of art. Mykonos boasts a selection. Large yachts and tiny fishing Paradise and Super Paradise boats alike line the harbor in beaches are known for their Chora, creating a harmonious loud music and wild parties Magical Mykonos mix that's picture-perfect. while Ornos and Psarou beaches are quieter and more Traditional windmills, craft family-friendly. For those shops, eateries, art galleries, looking to connect more with and a bustling tourist wave day nature, less-organized beaches and night make Mykonos the include Agia Anna, Kapari, and island that truly never sleeps. If Agios Stefanos. you're in no rush to be somewhere, getting lost in the Aside from seafood, local winding narrow paths and cuisine includes the kopanisti, alleys of Chora is an interesting a pepper-covered soft cheese, experience that can lead to and a variety of mezedes many quaint surprises. In just including local sausages. For a turning the corner of a busy sweet treat, there's the path filled with noise and life, amygdalota, clusters of ground you may unexpectedly find almond, rosewater, and sugar. yourself in a serene church For those interested in history, courtyard, gazing at the there's the Archaeological romantic setting of a purple Museum, the Folklore flower-filled street, or meeting Museum, and Maritime complete strangers asking for Museum of Mykonos, which directions to a lively dance house plenty of artifacts and scene in Mikri Venetia. Here, informational material. music and dancing at various clubs and bars continues well Mykonos is posh, exciting, into the early morning hours. and glamorous, yet simple, and At some point when the sun is definitely a place to get to shy of rising, the clubs die know at least once in your down, but you may find lifetime. yourself stumbling upon a pub playing live rebetiki music And if you're lucky, you may behind closed doors. even get to pose with the famous local pelican, Petros. And just when you think the Mykonos is most popular party is over, you'll hear the among European tourists in the If you're looking for a party, over the world during the popularity as a top Greek ways. Featuring the traditional locals starting their daily month of August, so make sure you'll find it in Mykonos, the summer season, Mykonos is a island tourist destination. Cycladic look with a number of routine setting up shops and to make arrangements in island that takes its name from hot spot to see and be seen. churches, cube-shaped cafes ready to serve morning advance, or visit in the spring, the god Apollo's grandson. A Inhabited in prehistoric times A walk around Chora, the whitewashed houses, and coffee and delicious crepes! early summer, or fall, for a cosmopolitan retreat attracting since the 5th millennium B.C., island's waterfront town, will characteristic brightly- colored more relaxing island thousands of tourists from all Mykonos today retains its leave you amused in all sorts of doors and window shutters, When it comes to beaches, experience.

By Anthe Mitrakos

Situated in the Aegean Sea as part of the Cyclades islands, is famed among Greek pilgrims for its Tinos: A Spiritual Getaway Church of Evangelistria but is much less known among tourists for its selection of 40 traditional villages and collection of beautiful beaches. Kept as more of a secret, the enchanting island of Tinos hosts countless attractions including the quaint villages, charming waterfronts, local cuisine, and traditional culture.

The island is popular particularly on March 25 and on August 15, or "dekapentaugousto," which celebrates and honors the Virgin Mary. On these days, worshipers from around the world flock to the island for a spectacular display of hundreds of faithful proceeding to the Church of Evangelistria on their knees, a tradition that has lasted many decades on the island. Aside from spectacular religious attractions, Tinos is also ideal for nature, art, and architecture enthusiasts.

The island is also celebrated for its great marble carving tradition, being the homeland of a number of artists including Lytras, Gyzis, Chalepas, and Filippotis. Legend has it that ancient sculptor Fidias shared the secrets of his art techniques with locals, who in turn went on to create impressive marble works displayed in fountains, chapels, and buildings. Some of these pieces are currently featured at the island's Gallery of Tinian Artists and the Marble Art Museum.

Despite the fact it is not advertised as a popular Greek destination, the island of Tinos is very interesting and offers a variety of exciting experiences. Choose from a selection of 40 villages including Pyrgos, Agapi, Arnados, Volax, Komi, Steni, and Falatados, to explore the traditional Greek village lifestyle. One of the largest of the Tinian villages, Pyrgos is named after a Venetian castle that used to exist in the area and is in modern times known for its marble works culture, which includes the 1955 Art School for Marble Sculpture, a fountain dedicated to the Greek Revolution of 1821, and two marble museums. At the village of Arnados, you will find the Monastery of Kechrovouni and the cell of nun Pelagia, while at the village of Agapi, built in the shape of Just above Agapi is the tiny village of Volax, where many of gift shops, eat at the tavernas, and perhaps even come across a an amphitheater, one can enjoy the sight of an abundant river the houses were built into the rock and granite blocks of the few basket weavers still making traditional goods. Looking to running through a valley, or spot the well-preserved dovecotes mountain. Although it is one of the smaller villages of Tinos, explore a cherished low-key island in the Aegean? Try Tinos for a scattered throughout the settlement. there is still much to see in Volax, where one can explore the getaway full of tradition, art, and culture. folklore museum next to the small Catholic Church, peruse the 10 Tourism in Greece THE NATIONAL HERALD, MAY 24, 2014