Santorini can be distinguished by its tiered landscape that is covered with white and beige painted houses, windmills, and blue domed churches. The contours of the buildings are accentuated by the vibrant blue water and sapphire sky. This is an ideal place for pictures and leisurely strolls. It is often cited as one of the most beautiful islands in the world.
This island is part of a chain of five volcanic islands (Cyclades) that form a circular archipelago located in the southern Aegean Sea. The distance to Greece’s mainland is approximately 125 miles.
The red, brown, and green cliffs stand in sharp contrast to the black volcanic rock and black sand beaches. These natural colors add to the overall beauty of this romantic destination.
During the Mediterranean cruise season, daytime visitors overwhelm the narrow streets. Hordes of people scamper here and there. They try to catch the best photo opportunities, taste local cuisine, indulge in fine wine or window shop at tourist orientated stores.
People choosing this walking adventure should be prepared for uneven surfaces and steep inclines. I recommend patience. During a busy day, pedestrians clog the narrower thoroughfares that have small stores and restaurants. Popular shops tend to be small and crowded.
Individuals who choose to travel off the beaten track may consider hiking a volcano at Nea Kameni, traveling to a nearby island or swimming in the thermal waters at Palea Kameni, another local island. Another beach option is a visit to Perivolos Beach.
History buffs can explore the Akrotiri Excavations that have uncovered Bronze Age settlements. If you enjoy sites like Italy’s Pompei, you should consider a trek to Akrotiri.
Before You Go
The climate is usually perfect, but don’t forget water, sunscreen, a hat, and a comfortable pair of shoes. A camera is definitely a necessity as well as considerable patience.
If you’ve been to Santorini, can you share your favorite memory?
THE ABOVE ARTICLE WAS ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED ON February 21, 2016. IT IS BEING REPOSTED ON THIS SITE BECAUSE THE EXAMINER SITE SHUT DOWN IN JULY, 2016. SOME PARTS OF THE ORIGINAL ARTICLE HAVE BEEN UPDATED AND THE ORIGINAL SLIDE SHOW HAS BEEN ELIMINATED.
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BIO
Sandra Bornstein is a freelance travel writer. She shares her travel experiences and recommendations on this blog and on other websites—One Travel: Going Places, Cheapoair.com Miles Away Travel Blog, We Said Go Travel, Mom It Forward, Boulder Jewish News, and Family Circle.
Sandra is the author of MAY THIS BE THE BEST YEAR OF YOUR LIFE. This memoir highlights Sandra’s living and teaching adventure in Bangalore, India. She is a licensed Colorado teacher who has taught K-12 students in the United States and abroad as well as college level courses. Sandra is married and has four adult sons.
The memoir was a finalist in the Travel category for the 2013 Next Generation Indie Book Awards, the 2013 International Book Awards, the 2013 National Indie Book Excellence Awards, 2013 USA Best Book Awards, and a Honorable Mention award in the Multicultural Non-Fiction category for the 2013 Global ebook Awards.
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