JUST like Paris, I was hesitant to add Santorini to our list of destinations after hearing many people say it was an expensive, overcrowded disappointment.
I can now say the negative reviews were way off the mark, Santorini was anything but a disappointment and it is now one of my favourite international destinations.
Unlike Ios, booking a week or two before peak season was a big win in Santorini.
There were enough people to create an atmosphere and to ensure everything was open. but not too many for us to have to fight against a sea of tourists to see landmarks or enjoy experiences.
Again, the one hour ferry from Ios to Santorini felt like a military exercise.
The port of Athinos resembled a stock market floor so I would highly recommend pre-booking a transfer to your accommodation.
We decided to stay in Thira as opposed to Oia after our research showed it was cheaper and had more nightlife.
Both places will provide you with the white and blue postcard experience.
We stayed at Galatia Villas which on the map seemed to be close to the main area of Thira, but it was a steep hike to get to.
We had two full days in Santorini, and we couldn’t pass up the opportunity to sail on the Mediterranean.
We booked a five hour day trip with Vista Yacht which cost us $200 each.
The semi-private catamaran trip included transfers, food and wine and snorkelling equipment.
It was worth every cent and was one of my highlights of the stop.
Day Two saw us venture back onto an ATV to cruise the island and of course we were accompanied on our trip by ABBA at full volume.
We spent most of the day lying on beach chairs, eating Tzatziki and drinking cocktails at a beautiful beach club called Wet Stories in Perissa Bay south of Thira.
Later that afternoon we travelled to Oia famously known for its blue domed church and ‘The best sunset in the world’.
With limited time we packed our evening to try and tick off as much of our wish-list as we could.
It was meticulously planned to enjoy the sunset at ‘Pacman’ a beautiful restaurant and bar, complete with an infinity pool overlooking the ocean.
We quickly then ventured to the blue domed church to get out postcard photos.
As we turned the corner, we were met with half of Greece attempting to do the same.
We wanted to make the final night of the trip special, so we booked our last dinner at the famous Ammoudi Fish Tavern in the red volcanic cliffs of Amoudi Bay.
Fast forward through a stressful event of our ATV getting stolen and drained of petrol and a few tears later, we were seated in one of the most beautiful restaurants I have ever experienced.
The tears scored us the best table in the house and the food did not disappoint.
Santorini holds some of the happiest moments of my life and is simply one of the most breathtaking places I have ever travelled to.
A place with mouthwatering food, picturesque landscapes, and the kindest people, it is a must for all to experience at least once in their lives.
Ratings
Santorini: 10/10
Galatia Villas: 4/10
Local Food: 10/10
Overall trip: 9/10
