Greece

Day 1

After two days full of travel we arrived in Greece. So, let me tell you about my first day in Naxos, Greece. We woke up early in the morning from a quaint hotel in Athens and traveled to the harbor where we started off our trip properly with this awesome ferry ride from Athens. The wind in my hair, the sun shining, and the view of the Aegean Sea were just amazing. When we finally arrived in Naxos, I couldn’t believe my eyes. The water was so clear and blue, it looked like something out of a postcard. We found this cute little villa to stay in by the town of Mikri Vigla, surrounded by colorful flowers. Later on, me and my dad went out to find some grub and stumbled upon this cozy taverna on the beach close to us. The smell of grilled seafood and fresh bread was irresistible. I ordered a seafood pasta, but honestly, the portions were massive. I tried my best, but I couldn’t finish it all.

Day 2

Day two in Naxos was pure magic! We decided to explore and stumbled upon a hidden gem—a stunning beach tucked away from the crowds. To my amazement, there was not a soul in sight. It was like our own private paradise. The soft sand beneath my feet and the gentle lapping of the waves created a soothing ambiance. I spent the entire morning basking in the sun, swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters with my dad, and simply enjoying the serenity. After resting we discovered the most incredible taverna right by the beach for a hefty dinner. The setting was idyllic and the staff were incredibly welcoming. The service was top-notch with the waiters constantly checking up on us and offering us free drinks and deserts. The music playing in the background added to the relaxed atmosphere. But let me tell you about the food – it was out of this world! I savored every bite of my chicken gyros, perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection. As the day drew to a close we returned to the hidden beach, eager to witness the magnificent sunset. The sun slowly dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow across the water. Naxos had already stolen a piece of my heart, and I couldn’t wait to see what other adventures awaited me in the days to come.

Day 3

On day three, we had an exciting adventure planned in Naxos. We started the day by returning to the beach near the diving shop. I was thrilled about the upcoming diving sessions, eagerly anticipating the chance to explore the underwater wonders of Naxos. After the beach and a quick nap, we embarked on a hair-raising drive – a 45-minute journey up a rocky, steep mountain. Along the way, we passed through local villages, catching glimpses of their traditional charm. The drive was quite an adventure itself, with breathtaking views and a sense of exhilaration that only comes from traversing such rugged terrain. After reaching the summit, we found ourselves at an incredible restaurant for Father’s Day. The panoramic views from the restaurant were absolutely jaw-dropping. From our vantage point, we could see the entire island of Naxos, stretching out before us in all its natural splendor. The food was as remarkable as the view, with mouthwatering dishes that delighted our taste buds – crispy eggplants, traditional greek salad, and a perfectly cooked pork braised in wine sauce. With our appetites satiated, we ventured to the main city of Naxos, located by the bustling ports. As the evening approached, we strolled along the harbor, taking in the vibrant energy of the city. The setting sun cast a golden hue across the water, creating a picturesque backdrop. It was the perfect time to indulge in a sweet treat, and we found a delightful spot to enjoy some delectable desserts, since chocolate covered donuts.

Day four in Naxos started with an invigorating visit to the beach. I wanted to soak up the morning sun and enjoy the tranquil ambiance before my refresh dive with my dad. We headed to a beautiful beach in front of the dive shop, where the crystal-clear waters beckoned us. Although our dive was not anything too exciting we were now ready for our open water dive on Wednesday. On our way back from the beach, we caught sight of parasailers gliding through the sky. Their colorful parachutes added to the already picturesque landscape. After a day filled with underwater exploration and beachside fun, we decided to have a quiet dinner at home. The day’s activities had left us pleasantly exhausted, and the idea of a cozy meal sounded perfect.

Day 5

On day five, we had a quick stop at the beach right in front of our villa before heading out. We were excited to move to a new villa where we would be picking up my cousin and aunt later in the day. After settling into the new place, my dad and I decided to spend the afternoon at a private grotto nearby. It was such a peaceful and secluded spot, perfect for swimming and relaxing. We enjoyed the serene atmosphere and the refreshing water. Later in the day, we headed to the port to pick up our family members. It was a joyful reunion, with hugs and laughter filling the air. We were all thrilled to be together and to explore Naxos as a group. Instead of going out for dinner, we decided to have a cozy family meal at home. We shared stories, caught up on each other’s lives, and savored delicious homemade dishes. It was a heartwarming evening, filled with love, good food, and the excitement of being in each other’s company.

Day 6

On day six, we were up bright and early to drop our family off at the beach in front of the dive shop. They were excited to spend the day relaxing and enjoying the sun and take on their first diving experience. After our diving excursion, we drove down to the southern part of the island. There, we found another stunning diving spot, where we continued to explore the underwater wonders. The vibrant marine life and the beauty of the underwater landscape left us in awe. We spotted fascinating creatures like octopuses, barracudas, and more, making the dive truly unforgettable. Returning to the beach, we spent a couple of hours basking in the warm sunshine, relishing the feeling of sand between our toes and the soothing sound of waves crashing nearby. It was the perfect way to unwind and recharge after an eventful day. In the evening, we decided to treat ourselves to a nice dinner at a charming tavern in the city. The ambiance was cozy, and the food was delicious. We indulged in local specialties, savoring every bite while enjoying the lively atmosphere and the company of our loved ones.

Day 7

The following day, we decided to revisit the beach where we had gone diving the previous day. It was such a picturesque spot that we wanted to spend the entire day there with our family. We captured countless memories with our cameras, snapping pictures of the breathtaking scenery and the joy on everyone’s faces. The crystal-clear water beckoned us, and we spent hours swimming, playing, and simply enjoying the beach’s tranquil beauty. Later in the afternoon, I ventured to a nearby beach where I dedicated most of my time to soaking up the sun. It was the perfect opportunity to relax and work on my tan. The warm rays of the sun embraced me as I lay on the soft sand, allowing the stress of everyday life to melt away. As the day drew to a close, I showered and freshened up before heading out to visit Naxos’s Apollo Portal. The ancient site held a sense of wonder and history, and I marveled at the architectural beauty that stood before me. The visit provided a glimpse into the island’s rich past and left me in awe of the legacy that it carries.

Day 8

The next day followed a similar routine as we headed to another beautiful beach to soak up the sun. We spent the entire day enjoying the warm sand, cool ocean breeze, and the company of our family. The beach days were becoming a cherished tradition, filled with laughter, relaxation, and a sense of pure bliss. In the afternoon, we ventured into the main city for some shopping. The bustling streets were lined with charming shops offering a variety of local crafts, souvenirs, and unique finds. We couldn’t resist picking up a few mementos to remind us of our unforgettable time in Naxos. As the evening approached, we freshened up and got ready for a lovely dinner out in the city. We had heard great things about a particular restaurant and decided to give it a try. The ambiance was enchanting, and the food exceeded our expectations, indulging our taste buds with delightful flavors and authentic Greek cuisine. After dinner, we made our way back home just in time to witness a beautiful sunset. The vibrant hues painted the sky as the sun slowly descended, casting a mesmerizing glow across the landscape. It was a breathtaking moment that filled us with gratitude and a sense of awe at the natural beauty surrounding us.

Day 9

On day nine, we bid farewell to Naxos for two days and embarked on an early morning ferry journey to Santorini. The anticipation of exploring this iconic Greek island filled us with excitement. As we arrived, we immediately immersed ourselves in the charm of the cities Thera and Fira’s streets. We wandered through the winding alleys, taking in the picturesque white-washed buildings, adorned with vibrant bougainvillea. The shops tempted us with their unique offerings, and we couldn’t resist capturing the beauty of Santorini through our camera lenses. After exploring the city, we made our way to the famous black sand beaches. The contrast between the dark volcanic sand and the azure waters created a mesmerizing scene. We spent hours basking in the sun, swimming in the refreshing sea, and simply reveling in the natural beauty that surrounded us. As the day transitioned into evening, we sought out a beautiful fine dining restaurant called ‘La Maison’ to witness the renowned Santorini sunset. The panoramic views from the restaurant were breathtaking, and the sun descending into the horizon painted the sky with hues of orange and pink. We savored a delectable meal (for me a tomato starter and a beef fillet main), savoring each bite and raising a toast to the magical experience.

Day 10

On day ten, we woke up early in the morning filled with excitement to visit the charming city of Oia. Our first stop was the iconic blue domes, a symbol of Santorini’s beauty. We couldn’t resist taking numerous pictures against the backdrop of these picturesque structures, capturing the essence of this enchanting place. After exploring Oia, we sought refuge from the summer heat and found a cozy café where we could cool off and relax. Sipping on refreshing beverages, we took a moment to soak in the atmosphere and reflect on the incredible sights we had witnessed. In the afternoon, we made our way to the Red Cliff beaches. The striking red volcanic cliffs against the clear blue waters created a striking contrast. We spent the rest of the day basking in the sun, swimming, and enjoying the beach’s tranquility. As the evening approached, we gathered our belongings and headed to the heart of the city, eagerly awaiting the ferry that would take us back to Naxos. The sun cast a harsh glow melting us as we bid farewell to Santorini, carrying with us memories of its breathtaking beauty. To conclude our day on a high note, we found a beautiful restaurant in the city center. The charming ambiance and delectable cuisine provided the perfect setting for a memorable dinner.

Day 11

On our final day, day eleven, we dedicated the entire day to savoring the beauty of Greece at the beach. We wanted to make the most of our remaining time on this incredible island before my departure later in the evening. We spent the day basking in the sun, swimming in the crystal-clear waters, feeding the fish, and embracing the tranquility of the beach. It was a peaceful and rejuvenating experience, allowing us to soak in the last rays of Greek sunshine. As the afternoon transitioned into evening, we spontaneously decided to head down to the port. There, we witnessed the magnificent sunset, painting the sky with vibrant hues of orange. It was a truly awe-inspiring sight, bidding farewell to Naxos in the most magical way. While at the port, we took the opportunity to purchase souvenirs for our friends back home. The local shops offered a wide array of unique and meaningful mementos that would serve as tokens of our unforgettable journey. To conclude our time in Naxos, we chose a restaurant situated right by the water. The soothing sounds of the waves served as a backdrop while we enjoyed a final delicious meal. We raised our glasses in a toast, expressing gratitude for the cherished memories and experiences we had shared on this remarkable island.