My recent trip to Greece was a dream come true! Santorini is an Island alive with whitewashed houses with blue doors and windows, art, culture, and ancient history. There are so many scenic viewpoints in Santorini– See The World… let yourself Go! Explore! Live Your Life!

ABOUT SANTORINI

Santorini is one of the Cyclades islands located in the southernmost region of the Aegean Sea. The official name is Thira. The island was the site of the largest volcano eruption in recorded history about 3,600 years ago. The eruption left a large caldera in which the towns of Oia, Imerovigli, Firostefani, and Fira are perched along the rim of the caldera.

THINGS TO DO!

• Watch a magical sunset. The crimson colors of the sun as it sets in the deep blue waters of the Aegean Sea creates scenery that will remain an everlasting memory. The Oia Castle is the most popular spot to watch the sunset, but it becomes very crowded. Sunset is usually 8:30 pm so it is advisable to locate a spot a couple hours in advance. We reserved a table at one of the sleek, rooftop bars in Imerovigli to enjoy local wine and enjoy the magical sunset!

• Sail around Santorini on a luxury boat.

We booked a private Catamaran Cruise with lunch and drinks on board. The views of Santorini ‘s volcanic landscape were amazing, as well as views of the iconic Red Beach, White Beach, the Lighthouse, caldera cliffs, volcanic islands and a spectacular sunset. We were able to exit the boat to swim in the crystal clear waters of the Aegean Sea… so much fun!

• Visit the archaeological site of Akrotiri, Santorini

Akrotiri -Sometimes called “The Pompeii of Greece” was devastated by a massive volcanic eruption between 1620 and 1530 BC and buried in volcanic ash. Well, preserved remains of frescoes, furniture, and pottery were reported, but no human remains were reported. Very nice tour, especially for history buffs.

• Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tour

We chose to tour Santo Winery– A state-of-art winery with a variety of local wines, beautiful decor and outside space that overlook the caldera. This was a prime sunset viewing spot for dinner after the tour. We sipped amazing wines and enjoyed the Santorini sunset. It is advisable to make reservations beforehand.

• Explore Oia

Spend a day in Oia for upscale shopping in the lovely boutiques, picturesque views of Santorini- whitewashed houses with blue doors, pretty laneways and alleyways, staircases lined with gorgeous Bougainvillea, Blue Dome Church and Oia Castle. Also, enjoy lunch at restaurants on the seaward side for fabulous views of cruise liners sailing across the caldera of Santorini. Every angle is a photo op.

MY FAVORITE RESTAURANTS

•Jimmy’s Souvlaki (Imerovigli)

Fast food, affordable, delicious traditional Greek Gyros.

•Fish Tavern o Perivolos

Seafood Restaurant that I dined at several times. I enjoyed the grilled octopus, Greek salad, fried Calamari, fried sardines and anchovies, risotto, Domatokeftethes(Tomato Fritters), Saganaki cheese(Fried Cheese drizzled with honey) and Santorini wines.

• Pelican Kipos (Fira) Cafe and Wine Restaurant

Garden restaurant with wine cellar 10 meters under the garden. Enjoyed the beautiful views and Roasted lamb with potatoes and vegetables in a ceramic pot.

• Skala (Oia)

Greek and Mediterranean cuisine with spectacular views of cliffside houses, blue-domed churches and cruise liners sailing across the caldera of Santorini.

• Confetti Dessert Boutique (Imerovigli)

Patisserie with homemade gelato, cakes, and desserts. Enjoyed gelato after watching the magical sunset.

I enjoyed one delicious meal after the other and tried new and wonderful foods!

Santorini, Greece is a very popular vacay destination, but may not always be welcoming to women of color. I experienced disappointing attitudes while shopping at some of the boutiques in Oia. If shop owners do not feel comfortable acknowledging my presence when I enter a shop, I do not feel comfortable spending money with them. I take this opportunity to encourage women of color to travel more, explore more and not allow cultural differences to discourage us from world travels!

As in many parts of the world, pickpocketing is a crime that travelers become victims of. I experienced this while shopping in Oia. I have traveled to many touristy parts of the world and never experienced this. This incident will not discourage me from traveling to European countries, just to exercise the normal precautions.

Immerse yourself in every destination and enjoy the Beauty!

XO,

Rochelle M.