Mykonos

admin — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 21:58:24 +0000

Despite the influx of tourists and its rapid development, the quaint Greek town of Mykonos has remained true to its roots and kept the identity that made it a popular tourist destination in the first place. Mykonos, Chora to its native inhabitants, is famous for its white cubic houses, set in deep contrast to the blue painted roofs that mimic the deep azure Aegean seas. Other unique features of Mykonos are the narrow cobblestone streets and whitewashed alleys that crisscross and lead to secret passageways that open up to spectacular views of the sea. Narrow cobblestoned streets also lead to small, local churches and eventually end in the picturesque old ports where colorful boats laze during warm summer afternoons.

Architecture is one of the major offerings of Mykonos. Cycladic architecture is what it is called, and it is one of the things that distinguishes the town from other tourist destinations. A perfect example of Cycladic architecture is the Paraportiani church dedicated to the Holy Mary, which is perhaps the most photographed structure in all of Greece. A look back at the ruins of the architecture of the past is also possible with a visit to Delos, believed to be the birthplace of Greek gods Apollo and Artemis.

Despite its size, one can expect the best shopping and dining experience in the world in this little Greek town. Small shops rival the best and most expensive boutiques in Paris, Milan, and New York, and restaurants offer traditional as well as international cuisine. This little town also boasts of a thriving nightlife. Trendy bars and nightclubs dot the beachfronts, and glamorous faces flood these establishments each night for partying that lasts until the break of dawn.

Most tourist spots will require no visa from Canadians and Americans for visits to Mykonos that will last no longer than 3 months. Vaccinations may be required for those who plan to visit forested areas in Mykonos. Flu vaccinations are also recommended for those planning to visit in the colder months.

Athens

admin — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 15:58:39 +0000

History always sets a site a notch above the rest, regardless of persistent modern day ills like pollution and political unrest. This is somehow the reality in today’s Athens. In modern Athens, a traveler can relish ancient monuments and ruins amidst ill-conceived infrastructure, and mushroomed souvlaki joints and bouzuki clubs. Recent youth riots have added to the city’s scars. While the 2004 Summer Olympics lent new life to it, Athens is still far from its old glorious state. Renaissance is said to be underway. Regardless of these, this new Athens owns up to its modern character. The city is noisy, to say the least. There are traffic jams as late as 3 am. The beaches and the bars seem to attract the most people. The new Athens is a heady mix of the old and the new, the best place for scholars and artists, party animals, and beach bums alike.

The Parthenon remains one of the city’s most recognizable monuments. It is located within the Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site. A visitor can imbibe the glory that was Athens in this fortified ancient town. A ticket to the Acropolis also provides access to the Theatre of Dionysus, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Ancient Agora, and more.

Being a city rife with history, museums and art galleries are abundant in Athens. These are some of the city’s attractions to scholars as these museums and galleries hold ancient and modern treasures. Major ones include the National Archaeological Museum and the New Acropolis Museum.

A valid passport and visa are required from travelers to Athens, Greece. Typically, a visitors are advised to keep aware of their surroundings. Pickpockets and purse snatching are the common crimes. Some travelers have been victims to “friendly stranger” scams, especially at tourist hotspots. Discretion should be practiced, particularly when talking to strangers.

Traveler's Edition » Greece

Mykonos

Athens