
The Cyclades
HELLAS
September 2023
by Seer Oon Hor

MYKONOS
The Island of the Winds
Mykonos, an enchanting paradise nestled in the heart of the Aegean Sea, is a captivating island beckons with its idyllic charm and vibrant energy. Renowned as a playground for the jet set crowd, this Greek paradise effortlessly blends whitewashed buildings, cobalt blue waters, and a pulsating nightlife scene. Home to some of the world's most iconic beaches, cosmopolitan cities, and ancient wonders, Mykonos offers a sensory experience like no other.
Stepping foot on the island, one is immediately greeted by the sight of narrow, winding streets, peppered with vibrant bougainvillea and cozy cafes. Beyond the charming streets lies a coastline that could only be described as paradise. Mykonos boasts beaches to suit every traveler's desires.
For history buffs, the island boasts a rich heritage dating back centuries. Ancient ruins, such as the archaeological site of Delos, an UNESCO World Heritage site, allow visitors to step back in time and explore the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis.
The temperature was hot when we were there. It was pleasant when we stood in the shade from time to time.

NAXOS
A Greek food paradise
Boasting breathtaking landscapes, ancient history, and vibrant culture, Naxos is a must-visit destination for travellers seeking a blend of relaxation and exploration. With its diverse range of experiences, Naxos promises to captivate visitors with its charm, making for an unforgettable holiday.
One of the island's main attractions is its stunning gastronomic delights. Naxian cuisine is renowned not only for its simplicity but also for its use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Savory dishes such as the succulent Naxian lamb, the creamy graviera cheese, and the famous potato-based dish known as patatato are just a few of the tantalizing delicacies that visitors can savor. Complemented by the island's exceptional wines, tasting the local flavors is an integral part of any journey to Naxos.
Beyond its beautiful coastline, Naxos is rich in history and culture. The imposing Portara, a colossal marble gateway, stands as a testament to the island's rich historical past. It overlooks the sprawling capital town of Chora, where winding alleys and whitewashed houses create a picturesque setting. Visitors can wander through the old town, discover traditional taverns, and immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere of the local markets. The island also boasts an array of archaeological treasures, including the ancient sites of Apollo's Temple and the Mycenaean Acropolis.
In summary, Naxos effortlessly combines natural beauty, rich history, and delectable cuisine, making it an extraordinary destination in Greece. Whether you're seeking relaxation on the pristine beaches or a journey through ancient ruins, Naxos has something to offer every traveler. With its warm hospitality and captivating charm, this Greek island gem is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.

SANTORINI
The birth child of Minoan Eruption
Santorini is an enchanting gem in the Aegean Sea and a tourist Mecca with its unparalleled beauty and rich history. An island known for its iconic white-washed buildings, blue-domed churches, and breathtaking sunsets, Santorini offers an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. As one walks along the narrow cobblestone streets of the island's charming villages, such as Oia and Fira, the vibrant colors and unique architecture create a mesmerizing atmosphere. The sight of the deep blue sea stretching out below the impressive cliffs leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.
Beyond its picturesque landscapes, Santorini boasts a captivating history that dates back millennia. The island is believed to have been formed by a volcanic eruption, which created its distinctive crescent shape. Visitors can delve into the past by exploring the ruins of ancient Thera, where they can witness the remains of Greek, Roman, and Byzantine civilizations. Santorini's volcanic history also lends itself to a unique attraction - its black sand beaches. Kamari and Perissa beaches are popular destinations where visitors can relax and soak up the sun against the intriguing backdrop of volcanic rock formations.
Furthermore, the gastronomy of Santorini is a delightful treat for the senses. The island's fertile volcanic soil nurtures a variety of fresh produce and vineyards, making it renowned for its delicious local cuisine. Must-try dishes include traditional Greek fare such as moussaka, souvlaki, and fava beans. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the island's longstanding winemaking tradition, as they can indulge in tastings of the crisp and aromatic Santorinian wines, particularly the renowned Assyrtiko grape variety.
For those who love to explore, you can do what we did, which is a boat trip to New Kammeni and Palais Kammeni where we hikes what-used-to-be volcano which created Santorini’s famous caldera and swam in geothermal beach rich in iron. That means it stained our swimming attires slightly red! The boat trip includes a sunset sailing experience which was an amazing sight from a different perspective. We had an amazing experience with Dakoutros Bros. The team took care of us well and entertained us with live music!
Geologically, Santorini is diverse where you can find black sand beach, red sand beach and other naturally colours sand beaches which we did not have time to visit! There are also many traditional villages to visit. We had a funny and an eye opening experience in Megalochorion. We naively drove into it but the closer to the village centre the narrower the street and we were so afraid we may not fit within the gate under the bell tower. We tried to reverse out until somebody (probably a local) just told us with our small car (luckily!) will just about fit through, and we did! Phew.
Santorini's unparalleled beauty, rich history, and delectable cuisine make it a captivating destination for travelers. Whether one wants to bask in the golden sun on its black sand beaches, wander through charming villages, or immerse themselves in the island's ancient past, Santorini offers an unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impression on all who are fortunate enough to visit.
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