House of travel Spain, Portugal, Greece & Turkey 2017 | Page 32

Greek Islands
Who doesn’t dream of visiting the Greek
islands? We make lists of our favourites and
plan holidays of idyllic island hopping. There’s
just something about the combination of white
washed houses, multihued fishing boats in tiny
ports, hills smelling of thyme, and the legends
and ancient history that is irresistible. And
that’s not even mentioning the party scene!
There are nearly 2000 islands, some very
popular and some still amazingly little-visited
by tourists. Travel tip: a package that includes
ferry rides and accommodation on the
islands of your choice will take the hassle and
uncertainty out of your island hopping!
Our favourite things to see and do
Island Hopping – The Cyclades group, which include Mykonos and Santorini, are
justifiably popular, and Crete, the largest island, is especially rich in history. If you are
looking for islands with fewer tourists why not sail towards Turkey and the islands
of Chios and Samos. If you’re not a party animal, Ios may not be for you but Tinos
could be perfect.
Hire a Moped and Explore – What better way to see the treasures of the Greek
islands than on a moped with the sun on your face and wind in your hair.
Indulge in Local Delicacies – Some of our favourites are Moussaka, Ouzo and
Souvlaki.
Zorba – Take part in this traditional style dancing.
Silver and Turquoise Jewellery – You will find in abundance around many
stores in the Greek islands. Great for you or a nice present for someone special back
home.
Stay in a White Washed Village – Around Easter the Greeks spring to life
and paint their houses white and doors blue. This is a big celebration marking the
new season. Make sure you stay in a little white washed village for a truly Greek
experience.
Waterfront Delights – Stop at a waterfront Taverna for a refreshing beer and
calamari fresh from the sea. Watch the fishermen land their catches on the wharf.
Souda Bay, Crete – Many New Zealand soldiers who fought during World War II
are buried here.
Samariá Gorge, Crete – Take a car journey over the white mountains where our
ancestors trekked to the south coast before they departed for Egypt. The scenery is
stunning and the area thought-provoking.
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