While many cruise ships passengers visit Olympia, Greece, these passengers really do not have the time to properly explore this wondrous place and delve deeply into its ancient heritage. This was the birthplace of the original Olympic games, where it was held every four years from 776 BC until they were banned by the Catholic Roman emperor Theodosius in 394 AD. The idolisation of the Greek gods was frowned upon, as was the fact that the Olympian competitors wore nothing but a smile.
There are a superabundance of sites and sights to explore in this historic town. One of the most famous and important in all of Greece is the Olympia museum, this houses a spectacular array of sculptures from antiquity, of which the bronze collection is the one of most extensive and important of its type in the world. It also boasts a unique collection of terracotta works and, although, it is not the most imposing structure in the world, it has faithfully reproduced a Grecian columned portico to greet its patrons.
If you plan to visit Olympia Greece, then a site you should add to your itinerary is Altis, the sanctuary. This contains a variety of structures, two of the most significant being the Temple of Zeus and the Temple of Hera. These are located in the sacred enclosure known as the Temonos. It is here that you will also find the area of the altar; this is something that will appeal to the more macabre taste, since it is where sacrifices were made to the gods of old. Off to the east is the site of the Hippodrome and the stadium where the Olympiads sought to prove their mettle and endurance.
After a day of exploring the past, there is nothing better than to sit down to a great meal with local wine, and of course, the obligatory glass of ouzo, a strong anise flavoured alcohol. You are in exactly in the right place for this, since here you can dine on the freshest of seafood and sample the other dishes for which Greece is renowned for, Moussaka and a bewildering selection of lamb dishes. After your main course you can sample the delights of the traditional Greek cheeses, Anthotiros (made from sheep or goats milk, or a blend of both) and, of course, the world famous Feta cheese. All that is required now, to round off a perfect visit to Olympia, Greece is to call in to one of the Greek Taverna's, where you can mingle with the locals and enjoy a merry night of traditional entertainment.
To learn more about Olympia Greece visit http://www.katakolon.gr/Olympia_Greece/index.en.html. On the site among other tourist information you can find all available Katakolon tours http://www.katakolon.gr/Katakolon_Tours/index.en.html.
Showing posts with label greece. Show all posts
Showing posts with label greece. Show all posts
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Booking Accommodations in Athens
When in Athens, one must have accommodations that match the elegance and style of the city itself. Decor and ambiance coupled with friendly helpful staff with guarantee that you hours at rest in this bustling city can renew and inspire you for the next day's adventures. Three such hotels are the Amalia Hotel Athens, the Herodion Hotel, and the Hera Hotel. At these choice venues, you will find a level of service and attention to detail that will put your worries at ease. Serving as your home base in the grand city of Athens, any one of these three would place you well within the prime tourist areas while at the same time give you respite from the hustle and bustle when and if you need it.
At the Amalia, the rooms are newly furnished, luxurious and spacious. Many of them feature a balcony as well. Soundproof windows eliminate street noise from below.
The hotel is located within walking distance of most major attractions, including the Parthenon, the Plaka (restaurants, bouzouki clubs & shopping), Syntagma Square (where you can watch the changing of the guard), and the new Acropolis Museum. There is free internet access in the rooms and free wi-fi in the lobby.
Herodion Hotel is on a quiet street just a block from the Acropolis. It features beautifully appointed lounge for the guests with comfy couches with an adjoining bar and restaurant as well as a two-level rooftop deck where you can enjoy astonishing views of the Parthenon especially when it is lit up in the evening. While gazing at the view, you can also enjoy the two hot-tubs that are well-positioned on both levels. Back on the ground floor, the restaurant features a sun-room where you can look out at the garden while you dine.
The Hera Hotel is just a ten minute walk to the Acropolis and a five minute walk to the New Acropolis Museum which is a definite bonus as the collections therein are fascinating. The metro is nearby as well as the Plaka for great shopping and dining options. Some of the rooms have balconies with views of the Parthenon. There is a rooftop restaurant with great views that serves elegant meals in-season. The breakfast buffet, however, is available all year long and it is delicious with quite an array of choices. With such a plethora of activities at your doorstep, a hearty breakfast for strength and endurance is a definite must.
For more information about hotels and travel related services in Athens Greece visit hotelsathens.travel. To find all Hotels on the Map of Athens visit http://www.hotelsathens.travel/map, to find Athens luxury hotels visit http://www.hotelsathens.travel/luxury-hotel.
At the Amalia, the rooms are newly furnished, luxurious and spacious. Many of them feature a balcony as well. Soundproof windows eliminate street noise from below.
The hotel is located within walking distance of most major attractions, including the Parthenon, the Plaka (restaurants, bouzouki clubs & shopping), Syntagma Square (where you can watch the changing of the guard), and the new Acropolis Museum. There is free internet access in the rooms and free wi-fi in the lobby.
Herodion Hotel is on a quiet street just a block from the Acropolis. It features beautifully appointed lounge for the guests with comfy couches with an adjoining bar and restaurant as well as a two-level rooftop deck where you can enjoy astonishing views of the Parthenon especially when it is lit up in the evening. While gazing at the view, you can also enjoy the two hot-tubs that are well-positioned on both levels. Back on the ground floor, the restaurant features a sun-room where you can look out at the garden while you dine.
The Hera Hotel is just a ten minute walk to the Acropolis and a five minute walk to the New Acropolis Museum which is a definite bonus as the collections therein are fascinating. The metro is nearby as well as the Plaka for great shopping and dining options. Some of the rooms have balconies with views of the Parthenon. There is a rooftop restaurant with great views that serves elegant meals in-season. The breakfast buffet, however, is available all year long and it is delicious with quite an array of choices. With such a plethora of activities at your doorstep, a hearty breakfast for strength and endurance is a definite must.
For more information about hotels and travel related services in Athens Greece visit hotelsathens.travel. To find all Hotels on the Map of Athens visit http://www.hotelsathens.travel/map, to find Athens luxury hotels visit http://www.hotelsathens.travel/luxury-hotel.
Monday, July 20, 2009
Greece: Tourist Advice
In this part of our guide to holidays in Greece we focus on the basic tourist information that visitors should know...
Greece offers a wide range of experiences, landscapes and activities. It is famous for its natural beauty, historical sites and nightlife, and of course for its reliably sunny summers and the many beautiful beaches on its islands and coastline, which stretches along the Aegean, Ionian and Mediterranean Seas.
These features attract more than 15 million visitors each year, making this southern European country one of the world's top 20 tourist destinations. While 90% of its tourists come from other European countries, in recent years there have been growing numbers of visitors from other parts of the world too.
Athens and islands such as Corfu, Crete and Rhodes are the major destinations, but other parts of Greece are also rewarding. Travelers wanting a quieter holiday can escape large-scale tourism in many attractive places.
The vast majority of visitors arrive during tourism season, which is April through October, with the peak of the season being July through to August. Outside of this time, most of the country's tourist infrastructure goes into hibernation, particularly on the islands.
While Athens and Thessalonki handle most scheduled international flights, during tourism season charter and low-budget flights from a range of European cities arrive daily at many islands and smaller mainland cities.
A valid passport is necessary to enter Greece. Citizens of some non-EU countries may also need to obtain a visa, but citizens of the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand can stay as long as 90 days without needing a visa.
Greece is considered a safe country to visit in terms of the incidence of theft and violence against visitors. It is neither necessary nor advisable to receive immunization vaccinations before traveling to Greece.
Greece offers a wide range of experiences, landscapes and activities. It is famous for its natural beauty, historical sites and nightlife, and of course for its reliably sunny summers and the many beautiful beaches on its islands and coastline, which stretches along the Aegean, Ionian and Mediterranean Seas.
These features attract more than 15 million visitors each year, making this southern European country one of the world's top 20 tourist destinations. While 90% of its tourists come from other European countries, in recent years there have been growing numbers of visitors from other parts of the world too.
Athens and islands such as Corfu, Crete and Rhodes are the major destinations, but other parts of Greece are also rewarding. Travelers wanting a quieter holiday can escape large-scale tourism in many attractive places.
The vast majority of visitors arrive during tourism season, which is April through October, with the peak of the season being July through to August. Outside of this time, most of the country's tourist infrastructure goes into hibernation, particularly on the islands.
While Athens and Thessalonki handle most scheduled international flights, during tourism season charter and low-budget flights from a range of European cities arrive daily at many islands and smaller mainland cities.
A valid passport is necessary to enter Greece. Citizens of some non-EU countries may also need to obtain a visa, but citizens of the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand can stay as long as 90 days without needing a visa.
Greece is considered a safe country to visit in terms of the incidence of theft and violence against visitors. It is neither necessary nor advisable to receive immunization vaccinations before traveling to Greece.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Why Ionian Sailing Holidays Might Be An Option
You sit there in your car with rain streaking your windscreen, and the hoarding at the traffic lights promises endless blue skies, baking sun and bath-warm sea water. As the light remains on red, its bright, sharp circle is blotted and streamed with English rain - but all you see is the brilliant yellow sun promised by one of those Ionian sailing holidays.
The happy faces on the billboard suggest that going on Ionian sailing holidays might be truly thrilling, jolly experiences. Clear green blue water suspends a blinding white sailing boat, aboard which happy family members smile or leap into the inviting Ionian Sea.
A car beeps from behind you and you realise it's time to move off. As the day goes on you turn over the possibilities offered by Ionian sailing holidays. Remembering that most persuasive of adverts, you toy with the idea of that beautiful Greek coastal region - a place where the world of work seems never to have existed.
The heavy lead lining of English cloud which protects the damp natives from, well, a decent a tan - reminds you that it would be a stroke of genius to book one of those Ionian sailing holidays as soon as possible. You start ticking boxes mentally, why on earth you should spend that money. Those boxes get ticked very quickly.
Ok, Ionian sailing holidays - like many other sailing holidays out there - cost a bit, but perhaps that is one of the only drawbacks. As with similar holidays, a good deal of hot sun is guaranteed. Then there is the food of course. Great food is something that you would find across the northern Mediterranean coast; in Spain, Italy, France - and in indeed in Greece. Spanish omelettes, Italian pizzas, French cuisines of all kinds - and those full, juicy Greek olives, just begging to be skewered and devoured - they're all possibilities for a sailing break in this most pleasure focussed of geographical regions.
Ionian sailing holidays would presumably offer as much humus as one would require - and as much mouth watering feta cheese and refreshing Greek salad, as you could possibly pack on to your boat. And, like much of this region, Greece offers a superb range of historic attractions to enjoy, if you for some reason get tired of lounging around on a boat in the warm, glassy blue Ionian waters.
Discovering the long Ionian history is the rapidly melting icing on the Greek cake, laid out on a red white chequered table cloth on your deck, as a light Greek breeze rustles your hair, and you consider sliding into that beautiful ancient sea again. Ionian sailing holidays across this area offer a true escape from routine life - as do the many other great sailing holidays available in the Mediterranean, where broad azure skies and golden sunshine comes as standard.
Anna Stenning is an expert on Ionian sailing holidays, having been involved in the Mediterranean holiday industry for many years. For more information visit http://www.nisosyachtcharter.com/
The happy faces on the billboard suggest that going on Ionian sailing holidays might be truly thrilling, jolly experiences. Clear green blue water suspends a blinding white sailing boat, aboard which happy family members smile or leap into the inviting Ionian Sea.
A car beeps from behind you and you realise it's time to move off. As the day goes on you turn over the possibilities offered by Ionian sailing holidays. Remembering that most persuasive of adverts, you toy with the idea of that beautiful Greek coastal region - a place where the world of work seems never to have existed.
The heavy lead lining of English cloud which protects the damp natives from, well, a decent a tan - reminds you that it would be a stroke of genius to book one of those Ionian sailing holidays as soon as possible. You start ticking boxes mentally, why on earth you should spend that money. Those boxes get ticked very quickly.
Ok, Ionian sailing holidays - like many other sailing holidays out there - cost a bit, but perhaps that is one of the only drawbacks. As with similar holidays, a good deal of hot sun is guaranteed. Then there is the food of course. Great food is something that you would find across the northern Mediterranean coast; in Spain, Italy, France - and in indeed in Greece. Spanish omelettes, Italian pizzas, French cuisines of all kinds - and those full, juicy Greek olives, just begging to be skewered and devoured - they're all possibilities for a sailing break in this most pleasure focussed of geographical regions.
Ionian sailing holidays would presumably offer as much humus as one would require - and as much mouth watering feta cheese and refreshing Greek salad, as you could possibly pack on to your boat. And, like much of this region, Greece offers a superb range of historic attractions to enjoy, if you for some reason get tired of lounging around on a boat in the warm, glassy blue Ionian waters.
Discovering the long Ionian history is the rapidly melting icing on the Greek cake, laid out on a red white chequered table cloth on your deck, as a light Greek breeze rustles your hair, and you consider sliding into that beautiful ancient sea again. Ionian sailing holidays across this area offer a true escape from routine life - as do the many other great sailing holidays available in the Mediterranean, where broad azure skies and golden sunshine comes as standard.
Anna Stenning is an expert on Ionian sailing holidays, having been involved in the Mediterranean holiday industry for many years. For more information visit http://www.nisosyachtcharter.com/
Monday, May 18, 2009
Greece - One Of Europe's Top Holiday Destinations
Greece, one of the most popular destinations in the world, is visited every year by about seventeen million people in the first six months of the year - which is quite a feat for a country having a population of just ten million people. People from all over the world are drawn to this country because of its endless coastlines, beautiful beaches, and warm summer climate. Besides natural beauty, Greece also has plenty of nightlife as well as historical monuments for those interested in learning about its past.
Greece has a very rich history and has had a huge influence on modern arts, language, literature, politics, and sports. Our western alphabet gets its roots from this country, as do Platonic ideals and Socratic methods. Besides this, the current form of democracy also takes its roots from this country, as do the Olympics.
About ninety percent of the tourists that come to Greece are European, with just ten percent coming from other countries. Once main reason for this is that out of all the European countries, besides Italy, Greece has the most amounts of beaches and a great summer weather rivalled by no other country. It is easy to get to Greece from all European countries, with cheap flights being run from all major cities, and it also does not cost a lot.
Most people think Greece is all about whitewashed homes and blue domed churches, which is far from the truth. The country has a lot of architectural diversity, so the architecture keeps changing across the country, and it is this diversity that is beautiful to see and worth admiring. While there are examples of neoclassical architecture in the city of Nafplio, you can find buildings with an Ottoman influence in Kozani.
Just like the architecture, the natural beauty and terrain of the country is just as varied. From beaches along the coast to mountains and even wine producing areas, Greece has it all.
While the city of Athens may seem lacking in character at first glance, you find gems hidden behind all the concrete. From the Acropolis to the Plaka and Monastiraki, there are many traditional cafes tucked away in all the narrow streets. The Acropolis is a World Heritage Site, and it was also the ancient fortified town of Athens all the way back in the Bronze Age.
You can see the whole city from the top of Ploutarchou Street in Kolonaki-; you can get to the top by taking the funicular railway. You can also go to the Anncient Agora which is a very green area and has a beautiful view of the Acropolis.
Greece has something to offer to everyone who visits it. From tours that take you through the history of the country from the first civilizations to enjoying your vacation by the beach or on a boat going through the numerous islands. It is this history, natural beauty, and architectural delights that make Greece such a popular place with tourists visiting year after year.
Packyourbags.com is a travel website that offers both cheap flights and holiday packages. If you haven't made a decision yet, at http://www.packyourbags.com/ you can also find helpful reviews and a great travel blog.
Greece has a very rich history and has had a huge influence on modern arts, language, literature, politics, and sports. Our western alphabet gets its roots from this country, as do Platonic ideals and Socratic methods. Besides this, the current form of democracy also takes its roots from this country, as do the Olympics.
About ninety percent of the tourists that come to Greece are European, with just ten percent coming from other countries. Once main reason for this is that out of all the European countries, besides Italy, Greece has the most amounts of beaches and a great summer weather rivalled by no other country. It is easy to get to Greece from all European countries, with cheap flights being run from all major cities, and it also does not cost a lot.
Most people think Greece is all about whitewashed homes and blue domed churches, which is far from the truth. The country has a lot of architectural diversity, so the architecture keeps changing across the country, and it is this diversity that is beautiful to see and worth admiring. While there are examples of neoclassical architecture in the city of Nafplio, you can find buildings with an Ottoman influence in Kozani.
Just like the architecture, the natural beauty and terrain of the country is just as varied. From beaches along the coast to mountains and even wine producing areas, Greece has it all.
While the city of Athens may seem lacking in character at first glance, you find gems hidden behind all the concrete. From the Acropolis to the Plaka and Monastiraki, there are many traditional cafes tucked away in all the narrow streets. The Acropolis is a World Heritage Site, and it was also the ancient fortified town of Athens all the way back in the Bronze Age.
You can see the whole city from the top of Ploutarchou Street in Kolonaki-; you can get to the top by taking the funicular railway. You can also go to the Anncient Agora which is a very green area and has a beautiful view of the Acropolis.
Greece has something to offer to everyone who visits it. From tours that take you through the history of the country from the first civilizations to enjoying your vacation by the beach or on a boat going through the numerous islands. It is this history, natural beauty, and architectural delights that make Greece such a popular place with tourists visiting year after year.
Packyourbags.com is a travel website that offers both cheap flights and holiday packages. If you haven't made a decision yet, at http://www.packyourbags.com/ you can also find helpful reviews and a great travel blog.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Five Great Things To Do On Holiday In Macedonia
Macedonia is a historical and geographical region in Greece situated in the south-eastern part of Europe. It is the second most populated and largest region in Greece and it is informally known as Northern Greece together with Thrace and Thessaly.
There are two types of climates in the region including Alpine in the mountain areas and Mediterranean or Temperate types in Central and East areas.
Macedonia is an area of Greece popular with tourists who like to stay in holiday rentals. There is a great selection of holiday villas and self catering holiday apartments in Macedonia that can be rented as self catering holiday accommodation.
Traveling around is the best thing to do in Macedonia. Thessaloniki is am important Greek city and serves as a major industrial, cultural and economic centre. Katerinin is also one of the must visit places of Macedonia. It is the capital of Prefecture of Pieria and stands on the plains between Pieria Mountains and Mount Olympus.
The second best thing to do in Macedonia is visiting its historical sites. If you are interested in historical architectures and sites, then there are many medieval monuments in Thesssaloniki for you to see.
These monuments are evidence of the great prosperity and former splendor of the city in ancient times. It is a port city and the second largest one in Greece. It is one of the most ancient cities in Europe and most of the Agora ruins date back to the Roman period.
The third attractive thing to do in Macedonia is enjoying the beaches of Makriyalos, Methoni, Plaka Litochorou, Olympiaki Akti and Platamonas.
Holidays in these beaches are quite popular among the water sports and beach fans who want a village life in a relaxed atmosphere. Apart from that, these beaches also provide tavernas and other nightlife for those who are interested in living their life with fun.
The beaches are unspoilt stretches of fine shingle and soft sand with shallow deep blue water, good for swimming and children. There are also beach side restaurants and bars and they also offer plenty of water sport activities.
These beaches are attractive for relaxing, sunbathing, eating well and finding entertainment around the quayside and harbour. You can rent holiday villas and self catering holiday apartments next to the beach.
Going on a visit to the Litochoro is the fourth thing to do. It is a pretty village serving as the starting point of Mount Olympus which is the highest Greek mountain. It has schools, a post office, banks, sports centre, harbor, town hall, hospital, museum, concert hall, squares and shopping facilities, all of which are enjoyable for the visitors.
Agios Nickolaos and Agios Dimitrios are the two major churches in Litochoro and Hogios Athanasios is the most traditional cemetery in Greece. Visiting the historical town of Kozani is also a must for the visitors.
It is located on the crossroads of Epirus, Western Macedonia, central Macedonia and Thessaly and is most famous for its library that houses innumerable previous and rare manuscripts and written documents. Siatista is situated to the west of Kozani which is a medieval town having interesting Byzantine cathedrals and some huge traditional buildings.
The fifth thing to do is to see the two lakes, Mikri and Megali which form borders between Albania, Yugoslavia and Greece. It has an amazing landscape and there is an ancient Byzantine Church on the Aghios Achielleios, which is a small islet. Ancient Macedonia settlement remains have also been found in the nearby area.
Andrew Gibson is MD of http://www.Directholidaybookings.co.uk. They have a great selection of holiday villas and self catering holiday apartments around the world.
There are two types of climates in the region including Alpine in the mountain areas and Mediterranean or Temperate types in Central and East areas.
Macedonia is an area of Greece popular with tourists who like to stay in holiday rentals. There is a great selection of holiday villas and self catering holiday apartments in Macedonia that can be rented as self catering holiday accommodation.
Traveling around is the best thing to do in Macedonia. Thessaloniki is am important Greek city and serves as a major industrial, cultural and economic centre. Katerinin is also one of the must visit places of Macedonia. It is the capital of Prefecture of Pieria and stands on the plains between Pieria Mountains and Mount Olympus.
The second best thing to do in Macedonia is visiting its historical sites. If you are interested in historical architectures and sites, then there are many medieval monuments in Thesssaloniki for you to see.
These monuments are evidence of the great prosperity and former splendor of the city in ancient times. It is a port city and the second largest one in Greece. It is one of the most ancient cities in Europe and most of the Agora ruins date back to the Roman period.
The third attractive thing to do in Macedonia is enjoying the beaches of Makriyalos, Methoni, Plaka Litochorou, Olympiaki Akti and Platamonas.
Holidays in these beaches are quite popular among the water sports and beach fans who want a village life in a relaxed atmosphere. Apart from that, these beaches also provide tavernas and other nightlife for those who are interested in living their life with fun.
The beaches are unspoilt stretches of fine shingle and soft sand with shallow deep blue water, good for swimming and children. There are also beach side restaurants and bars and they also offer plenty of water sport activities.
These beaches are attractive for relaxing, sunbathing, eating well and finding entertainment around the quayside and harbour. You can rent holiday villas and self catering holiday apartments next to the beach.
Going on a visit to the Litochoro is the fourth thing to do. It is a pretty village serving as the starting point of Mount Olympus which is the highest Greek mountain. It has schools, a post office, banks, sports centre, harbor, town hall, hospital, museum, concert hall, squares and shopping facilities, all of which are enjoyable for the visitors.
Agios Nickolaos and Agios Dimitrios are the two major churches in Litochoro and Hogios Athanasios is the most traditional cemetery in Greece. Visiting the historical town of Kozani is also a must for the visitors.
It is located on the crossroads of Epirus, Western Macedonia, central Macedonia and Thessaly and is most famous for its library that houses innumerable previous and rare manuscripts and written documents. Siatista is situated to the west of Kozani which is a medieval town having interesting Byzantine cathedrals and some huge traditional buildings.
The fifth thing to do is to see the two lakes, Mikri and Megali which form borders between Albania, Yugoslavia and Greece. It has an amazing landscape and there is an ancient Byzantine Church on the Aghios Achielleios, which is a small islet. Ancient Macedonia settlement remains have also been found in the nearby area.
Andrew Gibson is MD of http://www.Directholidaybookings.co.uk. They have a great selection of holiday villas and self catering holiday apartments around the world.
Friday, January 2, 2009
Kos - A Spectacular Greek Island
Of all the Greek islands, holidays on Kos are perhaps the most spectacular. Greek holidays on the island of Kos offer plenty to do and see, and have attracted visitors for many years. In this brief article we'll take a look at some of the attractions Kos has to offer, for a variety of age groups, as well as what separates it from the other Greek islands.
The main town on the island is also named Kos, and is the cultural hub of the island. It features lots of hotels, restaurants, nightclubs, and other venues one might expect from a large town, though Kos Town contains only roughly fifteen thousand people. There is a fourteenth century castle as well, built by the Knights of Saint John of Rhodes. Holidays in Kos are often spent absorbing the rich culture left here by settlers as early as the 11th century, BC. Whitewashed buildings and ancient structures form a sort of medley of new and old seen best in places like the Kos Islands Greece.
Holidays in Kos also generally include a tour of the Plane Tree of Hippocrates, a dream temple in the centre of town where the famous physician was said to have taught. This temple is actually an ancient tree, which is now largely held up by scaffolding because of its age. There are also a number of museums and institutes in town dedicated to Hippocrates, and are a big attraction on Greek holidays. There are a number of interesting ruins around the city as well, such as Asklepieion, where Herodicus reportedly taught Hippocrates about medicine.
Kos holidays don't have to include only history lessons. There are also tons of water sport activities as well as luxurious beaches and a thriving nightlife. The island is very tourist-oriented, and therefore Kos holidays are filled with both excitement and relaxation, whichever interests you more. There are lots of bustling harbour towns and quaint villages, with several annual festivals taking place in any season. Ferries to other islands are available, so planning an island-hopping trip across several of them is easy. In fact, Kos is just one island in a relatively long chain of volcanic Greek islands, almost all of which can be accessed from an adjacent one, making island-hopping holidays extremely popular. Kos Islands Greece is a huge holiday destination among British holiday-goers, though it is equally famous across the world.
David Brice was writing on behalf of Discover the Greek Islands the online travel agent for holidays to the Greek Islands. http://www.discovergreekislands.co.uk
The main town on the island is also named Kos, and is the cultural hub of the island. It features lots of hotels, restaurants, nightclubs, and other venues one might expect from a large town, though Kos Town contains only roughly fifteen thousand people. There is a fourteenth century castle as well, built by the Knights of Saint John of Rhodes. Holidays in Kos are often spent absorbing the rich culture left here by settlers as early as the 11th century, BC. Whitewashed buildings and ancient structures form a sort of medley of new and old seen best in places like the Kos Islands Greece.
Holidays in Kos also generally include a tour of the Plane Tree of Hippocrates, a dream temple in the centre of town where the famous physician was said to have taught. This temple is actually an ancient tree, which is now largely held up by scaffolding because of its age. There are also a number of museums and institutes in town dedicated to Hippocrates, and are a big attraction on Greek holidays. There are a number of interesting ruins around the city as well, such as Asklepieion, where Herodicus reportedly taught Hippocrates about medicine.
Kos holidays don't have to include only history lessons. There are also tons of water sport activities as well as luxurious beaches and a thriving nightlife. The island is very tourist-oriented, and therefore Kos holidays are filled with both excitement and relaxation, whichever interests you more. There are lots of bustling harbour towns and quaint villages, with several annual festivals taking place in any season. Ferries to other islands are available, so planning an island-hopping trip across several of them is easy. In fact, Kos is just one island in a relatively long chain of volcanic Greek islands, almost all of which can be accessed from an adjacent one, making island-hopping holidays extremely popular. Kos Islands Greece is a huge holiday destination among British holiday-goers, though it is equally famous across the world.
David Brice was writing on behalf of Discover the Greek Islands the online travel agent for holidays to the Greek Islands. http://www.discovergreekislands.co.uk
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Reasons to Visit the Greek Islands
The beautiful mountainous islands, scattered throughout the Mediterranean, Aegean and Ionian Seas, offer a unique perspective of Greece. Each of the islands, of which there are more than 150, is unique. The beautiful islands open a door to a different way of life that lets visitors get away from it all and escape from the real world into somewhere they've always wanted to be. Though life on many the islands mimics everyday life in the rest of the world, with a similar atmosphere, the internet and cars, each island is different and offers a piece of history and relaxation that can be found nowhere else on earth.
Archaeology
The various islands have numerous places where one can explore archaeological sites. Crete, the largest of the islands, has these sites, interspersed with ancient cities, all across the island. Other islands, like Aigina, have similar ruins. Aigina has dozens of ruins and temples, including the Temple of Aphaia. Rhodes offers one of the best medieval cities in the world.
Life Without Cars
Though many of the islands have the same transportation as we do everywhere else, some Islands, like Ydra, Poros, Hydra and Spetses don't have them at all. You can explore these islands by bike, ferry, horse-powered vehicles or on your own two feet. They're small, so cars are unnecessary and it's possible to see everything just on a walk. Other islands that don't offer rental cars provide buses and mopeds for transportation, so you don't need to drag your things to the hotel.
Beautiful Beaches and Watersports
Some say the island, Spetses, has the most beautiful beaches in the world. Some are sandy, some are pebbly, but they're all beautiful. Others say the beautiful sandy beaches of Ios are best, and others say the sandy beaches of Milos, with rocky structures to explore and white-washed buildings nearby are best. Skopelos has beautiful, semi-private beaches that are only accessible by boat or small foot-trails. And still others say that Naxos has the best of the beaches, with beautiful golden sands. All the islands, though, offer beautiful beaches that are ideal for enjoying the sun, tanning and enjoying the beautiful outdoors.
Each island has boating, sailing, fishing, windsurfing, parasailing, snorkeling and other watersports that visitors can enjoy.
Shopping
What's a vacation but a chance to shop? Crete, in addition to its other assets, has dozens of villages and stores for shoppers. Santorini, known as the top destination for honeymooners, is something of a shopping paradise. Naxos and Paros have smaller shops and stores.
Parties
On the island of Mykonos, when the sound goes down, the people go out and it's time to party. Hydra has an exciting night-life and lots of bars, restaurants and people ready to party. Likewise, Aigina also has a vibrant night life. Don't be worried about being stared at, if you're there to party, you'll be welcome.
Food
It's expensive, but it's abundant. Each of the islands offers traditional Greek food, as well as International choices that can suit anyone's palate. Try something new, but don't eat anything you're uncomfortable with.
Next time you're considering going on a vacation, don't discount the Greek Islands. Imagine seeing the white-washed buildings surrounded by oceans of deep blue water, the calm and serenity of a different life, and a chance to party. You'll never regret the decision.
Nick Nikolis is working in Atlantica Hotels and Resorts as It manager in Rhodos. Atlantica Hotels and Resorts is a Europe hotels chain currently offering accommodation holidays in Greece Cyprus and Egypt.
http://www.atlanticahotels.com
http://www.olivegardenhouses.com/rhodes.html
Archaeology
The various islands have numerous places where one can explore archaeological sites. Crete, the largest of the islands, has these sites, interspersed with ancient cities, all across the island. Other islands, like Aigina, have similar ruins. Aigina has dozens of ruins and temples, including the Temple of Aphaia. Rhodes offers one of the best medieval cities in the world.
Life Without Cars
Though many of the islands have the same transportation as we do everywhere else, some Islands, like Ydra, Poros, Hydra and Spetses don't have them at all. You can explore these islands by bike, ferry, horse-powered vehicles or on your own two feet. They're small, so cars are unnecessary and it's possible to see everything just on a walk. Other islands that don't offer rental cars provide buses and mopeds for transportation, so you don't need to drag your things to the hotel.
Beautiful Beaches and Watersports
Some say the island, Spetses, has the most beautiful beaches in the world. Some are sandy, some are pebbly, but they're all beautiful. Others say the beautiful sandy beaches of Ios are best, and others say the sandy beaches of Milos, with rocky structures to explore and white-washed buildings nearby are best. Skopelos has beautiful, semi-private beaches that are only accessible by boat or small foot-trails. And still others say that Naxos has the best of the beaches, with beautiful golden sands. All the islands, though, offer beautiful beaches that are ideal for enjoying the sun, tanning and enjoying the beautiful outdoors.
Each island has boating, sailing, fishing, windsurfing, parasailing, snorkeling and other watersports that visitors can enjoy.
Shopping
What's a vacation but a chance to shop? Crete, in addition to its other assets, has dozens of villages and stores for shoppers. Santorini, known as the top destination for honeymooners, is something of a shopping paradise. Naxos and Paros have smaller shops and stores.
Parties
On the island of Mykonos, when the sound goes down, the people go out and it's time to party. Hydra has an exciting night-life and lots of bars, restaurants and people ready to party. Likewise, Aigina also has a vibrant night life. Don't be worried about being stared at, if you're there to party, you'll be welcome.
Food
It's expensive, but it's abundant. Each of the islands offers traditional Greek food, as well as International choices that can suit anyone's palate. Try something new, but don't eat anything you're uncomfortable with.
Next time you're considering going on a vacation, don't discount the Greek Islands. Imagine seeing the white-washed buildings surrounded by oceans of deep blue water, the calm and serenity of a different life, and a chance to party. You'll never regret the decision.
Nick Nikolis is working in Atlantica Hotels and Resorts as It manager in Rhodos. Atlantica Hotels and Resorts is a Europe hotels chain currently offering accommodation holidays in Greece Cyprus and Egypt.
http://www.atlanticahotels.com
http://www.olivegardenhouses.com/rhodes.html
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Take Time Out On Zante
The island of Zakynthos, or Zante, is the third largest of the Ionian Islands and is a popular destination with budget holiday-makers. Renowned for its beauty and tourist-friendly locals, Zakynthos is blessed with a sunny climate for most of the year, with temperatures reaching 40 degrees Celsius in the summer months.
The months of May, June and September are probably the most comfortable months to go, as the temperature is hot but not extreme, and flight operators are recognising this by offering a host of cheap holidays.
This beautiful island has a host of beaches for holiday-makers who just want to soak up the sun and laze in the calm, crystal-clear waters. Resorts such as Kalamaki, Argassi and Keri are popular with tourists while the bay of Laganas provides a range of facilities during the summer months.
Zakynthos is also a good holiday location in terms of both service and accommodation and offers higher standards of food than the majority of budget destinations. The local cheeses and cold meats in the mountain villages are not to be missed and visitors routinely take home as many bottles of the region's medium dry wines as they can.
Zante town, the capital, is home to the vast majority of the island's 35,000 inhabitants and is in fact the only place on the island where there are more locals than tourists! The town offers a variety of shops, tavernas and bars as well as a good selection of hotels close to the harbour.
The majority of the island was devastated in 1953 by an earthquake and much of the capital was destroyed. Since then, buildings have largely been built in traditional Venetian style, a reminder that the island was ruled by Venice for 400 years. It was also the Venetians that introduced olive trees to the Ionian Islands.
The Greek Islands are renowned for their much-celebrated festivals, and the main one on Zakynthos is St Dionysios' Day, when the patron saint of the island is commemorated by parading his body around the streets in a glass coffin.
Religion is never far away on Zakynthos and the island's monasteries should definitely be on your list of places to visit during your stay. Getting around the island is easy as taxis are easy to find and cheaper than here in the UK. However, as with all foreign destinations, it is advisable to ask how much the journey will cost before setting out.
For those holiday-makers who prefer to come out to play at night, Laganas provides a range of entertainment that continues well into the following day, although it's a good idea to catch happy hour before 11:00pm as the drinks can sometimes be quite pricy. The clubs do not charge for entry however, so nights out will still be well within your budget.
Zakynthos is an ideal destination for some pre-summer sun and, with several cheap flights, hotel deals and package holidays to be snapped up, there's no excuse for not checking your diary and booking yourself a get-away break on this Greek holiday island.
For those holiday-makers who prefer to come out to play at night, Laganas provides a range of entertainment that continues well into the following day, although it's a good idea to catch happy hour before 11:00pm as the drinks can sometimes be quite pricy. The clubs do not charge for entry however, so nights out will still be well within your budget.
David Brice was writing on behalf Discover the Greek islands, the cheap holidays specialist. Their website is http://www.discovergreekislands.co.uk
The months of May, June and September are probably the most comfortable months to go, as the temperature is hot but not extreme, and flight operators are recognising this by offering a host of cheap holidays.
This beautiful island has a host of beaches for holiday-makers who just want to soak up the sun and laze in the calm, crystal-clear waters. Resorts such as Kalamaki, Argassi and Keri are popular with tourists while the bay of Laganas provides a range of facilities during the summer months.
Zakynthos is also a good holiday location in terms of both service and accommodation and offers higher standards of food than the majority of budget destinations. The local cheeses and cold meats in the mountain villages are not to be missed and visitors routinely take home as many bottles of the region's medium dry wines as they can.
Zante town, the capital, is home to the vast majority of the island's 35,000 inhabitants and is in fact the only place on the island where there are more locals than tourists! The town offers a variety of shops, tavernas and bars as well as a good selection of hotels close to the harbour.
The majority of the island was devastated in 1953 by an earthquake and much of the capital was destroyed. Since then, buildings have largely been built in traditional Venetian style, a reminder that the island was ruled by Venice for 400 years. It was also the Venetians that introduced olive trees to the Ionian Islands.
The Greek Islands are renowned for their much-celebrated festivals, and the main one on Zakynthos is St Dionysios' Day, when the patron saint of the island is commemorated by parading his body around the streets in a glass coffin.
Religion is never far away on Zakynthos and the island's monasteries should definitely be on your list of places to visit during your stay. Getting around the island is easy as taxis are easy to find and cheaper than here in the UK. However, as with all foreign destinations, it is advisable to ask how much the journey will cost before setting out.
For those holiday-makers who prefer to come out to play at night, Laganas provides a range of entertainment that continues well into the following day, although it's a good idea to catch happy hour before 11:00pm as the drinks can sometimes be quite pricy. The clubs do not charge for entry however, so nights out will still be well within your budget.
Zakynthos is an ideal destination for some pre-summer sun and, with several cheap flights, hotel deals and package holidays to be snapped up, there's no excuse for not checking your diary and booking yourself a get-away break on this Greek holiday island.
For those holiday-makers who prefer to come out to play at night, Laganas provides a range of entertainment that continues well into the following day, although it's a good idea to catch happy hour before 11:00pm as the drinks can sometimes be quite pricy. The clubs do not charge for entry however, so nights out will still be well within your budget.
David Brice was writing on behalf Discover the Greek islands, the cheap holidays specialist. Their website is http://www.discovergreekislands.co.uk
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Experience Ancient Civilisation At Its Finest On Santorini
Santorini is the southernmost island of the Cycladic group in the Aegean Sea, located 63 nautical miles north of Crete. Regarded by many as the most spectacular of the Greek Islands, visitors come to Santorini for its impressive archaeological sites, its famous beaches and above all its weather.
The island enjoys a marvellously dry climate with virtually unbroken sunshine year-round. Even during the winter months, consecutive rainy days are uncommon and the coldest months have a relatively mild average
temperature of 12 degrees Celsius.
Santorini received its present name in the 13th century, when the Crusaders named the island after a chapel of Santa Irene.
The island owes its existence to a volcano, whose last major eruption took place 3,600 years ago. Visitors come to see the island's large, sea-filled caldera or crater, the remnant of what might possibly have been the world's largest ever eruption.
Although man is known to have inhabited the island during the Early Cycladic civilisation from 3,200 - 2,000 BC, an eruption around 1,500 BC buried the entire island and all traces of civilisation disappeared for several centuries.
Evidence of more recent volcanic activity is apparent, and the two small islands of Palea and Nea Kameni are the youngest landmasses in the Eastern Mediterranean. The latter began to form just 425 years ago and represents the volcano's latest activity in 1950.
Santorini, like many of the Greek Islands, holds significant interest for archaeologists, boasting remains of both prehistoric and Greek civilisation. The ancient city of Akrotiri is the most important prehistoric settlement in the Eastern Mediterranean, thanks to its excellent state of preservation.
Mesa Vouno, meanwhile, is an ancient Greek city, built on limestone rock during the ninth century BC. Until the spread of Christianity, Mesa Vouno was the only urban centre on Santorini.
The Archaeological Museum, which is located in the island's capital, Fira, is well worth a visit as it houses a wide range of sculptures, inscriptions, vases and clay figurines which document the island's lengthy past. Also in Fira is the Museum of Prehistoric Thira, which contains artistic masterpieces from the prehistoric Aegean.
For the less culturally-inclined, Santorini is renowned for its scenic beaches, mainly spread along the eastern and south-eastern edges of the island. Perivolos and Perissa are black-sand beaches which benefit from a range of hotels, restaurants and tavernas.
The beaches of Monolithos, Avis and Kamari are located on the south-east of the island and are particularly popular with families with young children.
The island benefits from a range of accommodation, from budget hotels through to luxury apartments, and also has a selection of some 300 restaurants to choose from. Food on Santorini is a pleasure rather than a necessity and everything from the Greek salads and vegetables through to the local goat's cheese and fish is as fresh as you could find anywhere.
In addition, the island is well-known for its outstanding wines and it is possible for visitors to indulge in a little wine-tasting at six different wineries. Even if you don't manage to get to a tasting, make sure you try some of the local dessert wines when you are out.
Santorini is a 40 minute flight away from Athens and charter flights travel directly to the island during the summer months. With an ever-increasing number of cheap flights travelling to the Greek Islands, there has never been a better time to travel to Santorini and experience its ancient charm firsthand.
David Brice was writing on behalf of Greek islands holiday specialist http://www.discovergreekislands.co.uk
The island enjoys a marvellously dry climate with virtually unbroken sunshine year-round. Even during the winter months, consecutive rainy days are uncommon and the coldest months have a relatively mild average
temperature of 12 degrees Celsius.
Santorini received its present name in the 13th century, when the Crusaders named the island after a chapel of Santa Irene.
The island owes its existence to a volcano, whose last major eruption took place 3,600 years ago. Visitors come to see the island's large, sea-filled caldera or crater, the remnant of what might possibly have been the world's largest ever eruption.
Although man is known to have inhabited the island during the Early Cycladic civilisation from 3,200 - 2,000 BC, an eruption around 1,500 BC buried the entire island and all traces of civilisation disappeared for several centuries.
Evidence of more recent volcanic activity is apparent, and the two small islands of Palea and Nea Kameni are the youngest landmasses in the Eastern Mediterranean. The latter began to form just 425 years ago and represents the volcano's latest activity in 1950.
Santorini, like many of the Greek Islands, holds significant interest for archaeologists, boasting remains of both prehistoric and Greek civilisation. The ancient city of Akrotiri is the most important prehistoric settlement in the Eastern Mediterranean, thanks to its excellent state of preservation.
Mesa Vouno, meanwhile, is an ancient Greek city, built on limestone rock during the ninth century BC. Until the spread of Christianity, Mesa Vouno was the only urban centre on Santorini.
The Archaeological Museum, which is located in the island's capital, Fira, is well worth a visit as it houses a wide range of sculptures, inscriptions, vases and clay figurines which document the island's lengthy past. Also in Fira is the Museum of Prehistoric Thira, which contains artistic masterpieces from the prehistoric Aegean.
For the less culturally-inclined, Santorini is renowned for its scenic beaches, mainly spread along the eastern and south-eastern edges of the island. Perivolos and Perissa are black-sand beaches which benefit from a range of hotels, restaurants and tavernas.
The beaches of Monolithos, Avis and Kamari are located on the south-east of the island and are particularly popular with families with young children.
The island benefits from a range of accommodation, from budget hotels through to luxury apartments, and also has a selection of some 300 restaurants to choose from. Food on Santorini is a pleasure rather than a necessity and everything from the Greek salads and vegetables through to the local goat's cheese and fish is as fresh as you could find anywhere.
In addition, the island is well-known for its outstanding wines and it is possible for visitors to indulge in a little wine-tasting at six different wineries. Even if you don't manage to get to a tasting, make sure you try some of the local dessert wines when you are out.
Santorini is a 40 minute flight away from Athens and charter flights travel directly to the island during the summer months. With an ever-increasing number of cheap flights travelling to the Greek Islands, there has never been a better time to travel to Santorini and experience its ancient charm firsthand.
David Brice was writing on behalf of Greek islands holiday specialist http://www.discovergreekislands.co.uk
Friday, November 21, 2008
A Guide To Taking Ionian Sailing Holidays
The Greek islands are a popular destination for many holiday makers whether you are single or travelling with family, in a group or with a partner. Ionian sailing holidays are a popular choice for many people, whether they are travelling on a chartered yacht or a skippered boat or even bareboat, this provides a trip across the Mediterranean seas that much more satisfying. This allows the crew to really take in the scenery and view the splendours of the island, as opposed to viewing from a far in the window of an aeroplane.
An Ionian sailing holiday is more suitable for a family looking experience the joys of swimming in the sea whilst travelling to nearby beaches and landmarks. The Ionian Islands are a group of islands situated in the Western portion of Greece. These are located on the Ionian Sea, with the main islands being Paxos, Ithaca, Lefkas, Corfu, Cephalonia, Cythera and Zacynthus. These are also located by the coasts of Peloponnesus and Epirus.
Ionian sailing holidays enable people to become familiar with the island and its history. Some skippered yachts cater for travelling information and provide tourism information that may be of interest to many of the travellers. The Ionian Islands hold much more than glorious views and beautiful scenic spots that encourage tourists to fall in love with the surrounding beauty. Its rich history provide an insight into why this is one of the most popular holiday destination and why it has continued to impress people all over the world.
The first inhabitants of the island were the Ancient Greeks who had arrived around the 9th or 10th century BC. It was later then conquered by outside Western Civilisations, namely the Romans in 146 BC, Byzantium 300 AD and the Venetian Empires in 1204 AD. The island was then acquired by other countries such as Russia in 1799, France in 1807 and then by the British in 1815. It was then conceded to the Greeks in 1864 making it the country's official territory and claiming the island.
Since the time of its eventful history, the Ionian Islands have seen much tourism and support of officials of being a Greek island and accepting it as its own since the time of the early settlers. The islands are more traditionally known as Eptanisa, which is translated as the Seven Islands due to the main seven islands that make up for the Ionian Islands. Its mild to hot climate has seen many holiday makers put this above all other holiday destinations.
The islands became one of Greece's most visited yacht charter holiday, because of its attractive ports, open space for motor sailing, bareboat sailing, yacht chartering and flotilla manoeuvring. Due to its calm and tranquil sea the island makes for a good spot for sailing for beginners and families. Skilled sailors can also enjoy the vibrant culture, relaxed warm climate, endure good use of space for using their skills and take advantage of the numerous harbours and docks which are often used as charter bases.
Anna Stenning enjoys going on Ionian sailing holidays, because it gives her more opportunities to learn about its Ancient history. For more information on the holiday http://www.nisosyachtcharter.com/
An Ionian sailing holiday is more suitable for a family looking experience the joys of swimming in the sea whilst travelling to nearby beaches and landmarks. The Ionian Islands are a group of islands situated in the Western portion of Greece. These are located on the Ionian Sea, with the main islands being Paxos, Ithaca, Lefkas, Corfu, Cephalonia, Cythera and Zacynthus. These are also located by the coasts of Peloponnesus and Epirus.
Ionian sailing holidays enable people to become familiar with the island and its history. Some skippered yachts cater for travelling information and provide tourism information that may be of interest to many of the travellers. The Ionian Islands hold much more than glorious views and beautiful scenic spots that encourage tourists to fall in love with the surrounding beauty. Its rich history provide an insight into why this is one of the most popular holiday destination and why it has continued to impress people all over the world.
The first inhabitants of the island were the Ancient Greeks who had arrived around the 9th or 10th century BC. It was later then conquered by outside Western Civilisations, namely the Romans in 146 BC, Byzantium 300 AD and the Venetian Empires in 1204 AD. The island was then acquired by other countries such as Russia in 1799, France in 1807 and then by the British in 1815. It was then conceded to the Greeks in 1864 making it the country's official territory and claiming the island.
Since the time of its eventful history, the Ionian Islands have seen much tourism and support of officials of being a Greek island and accepting it as its own since the time of the early settlers. The islands are more traditionally known as Eptanisa, which is translated as the Seven Islands due to the main seven islands that make up for the Ionian Islands. Its mild to hot climate has seen many holiday makers put this above all other holiday destinations.
The islands became one of Greece's most visited yacht charter holiday, because of its attractive ports, open space for motor sailing, bareboat sailing, yacht chartering and flotilla manoeuvring. Due to its calm and tranquil sea the island makes for a good spot for sailing for beginners and families. Skilled sailors can also enjoy the vibrant culture, relaxed warm climate, endure good use of space for using their skills and take advantage of the numerous harbours and docks which are often used as charter bases.
Anna Stenning enjoys going on Ionian sailing holidays, because it gives her more opportunities to learn about its Ancient history. For more information on the holiday http://www.nisosyachtcharter.com/
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