After mentally debating several topics for an entire week, I thought it would only be fitting if this blog captured my biggest passion: traveling. So, welcome to my digital bucket list of all the places I want to visit! First up: Greece.
After watching Mamma Mia! for the first time in elementary school, Greece mesmerized me with its sandy beaches, ravishing blue-green water and architecture (new and old) whose influence spans the globe. Since then, the country has been #1 on my list!
Anyone who glances at a world map sees that this southeastern European country consists of over 20 islands speckled over the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas. However, each of these islands could not be more different with its diverse culture and tourist attraction spots. The most notable: Santorini. Formed by an erupting volcano, Santorini is home to lava pebble beaches in a variety of earthy colors. For an invigorating swim, try the private and secluded White Beach cascading over tall cliffs. If you adore strolling around the sandy shores, Red Beach deserves a shout-out for its stunning red-hued sand embellishing the salty sparkling water. If you do end up visiting Santorini, make sure you check out the pink beach in Crete (another nearby island), locally cherished as the Elafonisi beach. Just like the name suggests, you won’t find normal tan sand here; instead, uncover crushed seashells that cover the beach in a rosy tint.
A fan of architecture? Did you know that the iconic white buildings that every tourist has at least one picture in their camera roll were once cave houses (known as yposkafa) built by the Greek to withstand volcanic eruptions? Moreover, the white walls are intentional; not only do they reflect sunlight to keep the homes, churches, and meeting areas cool, but the white color is also derived from limestone, a natural disinfectant!
Speaking of architecture, you can uncover a whole range of architectural fascination across the islands. Capital city Athens showcases ancient Greek temples that draw from ideas of harmony and balance. Examine these architectural fascinations at the Acropolis of Athens, Palace of Knossos in Crete and treasure even more artifacts of the past at the Acropolis Museum.
After walking around all day, you will definitely stir up an appetite! Santorini offers authentic Greek food packed full of herbs, meats and olive oil that is a must if you visit. Uncover entrées such as Papoutsakia (stuffed eggplants), Souvlaki (Gyros) or the variety of seafood dishes that dominate restaurant menus. For dessert, definitely check out Baklava (pastry with nuts and syrup) or a traditional Galaktoboureko (milk pie) to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Try making them at home!
End the day by relaxing at any one of the numerous hotels and resorts located along the coast of the Greek islands. With luxurious amenities and marvelous views of the shore, these locations, albeit pricey, revitalize your energy before you head off to explore Santorini (or maybe another island?) and create memories in Greece.
Although Greece remains on my wishful bucket list for now, many of my friends who visited praise the postcard-esque views and friendly local residents who helped the country become one of the 10 most welcoming places on Earth!