Weekendin Singapore Feb '14 | Issue 11 | Page 58

WeekendinFEATURE 3. WeekendinFEATURE Romantic getaways When in love, there is a desire to share it with the world, and lucky for you, it is a big world out there. Whether you want to declare your love from the top of a snowcapped mountain or across a lavender field, there are plenty of places around the globe to honour your soulmate. There are endless romantic destinations on the planet where you and your partner can create enough memories to last a lifetime in the world’s most romantic idylls. Rediscover romance this year by stealing away to one of these hot spots. Santorini, Greece Sitting atop a vast remnant of a volcanic caldera, the island of Santorini is renowned for its magnificent view of the Aegean Sea. If you are looking for a romantic escapade this Valentine’s Day, we recommend that you and your other half catch a flight into this unique island to witness nature at its finest. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by a rare sight of whitewashed or limewashed low-lying cubical houses that spread across the expanse of the overlying caldera. This is just the beginning of an otherworldly adventure in this geographically-rich site. Embedded within the surface of the island is an endless supply of extremely fertile soil, a type which reaps the tastiest produce of the finest quality. Its volcanic ash soil yields a luscious selection of crops such as the famed cherry tomatoes, white eggplants, and cucumber. Home to a harvest of grape variety, Santorini is highly regarded for its thriving wine industry. Naturally resistant to many diseases, the wellknown Assyrtiko can be found in 70% of the vineyards in Santorini as well as in other parts of Greece. This grape brings forth a dry, full-bodied citric aroma, which is attributed to volcanic soil that dwells within the surface of the island. As a vibrant selection of grapes sprout throughout the vineyards, touring the island’s wineries is definitely an opportunity not to be missed. One of the most frequented tourist spots are the beaches, which are situated in various locations across the island. One of the more notable beaches is Perivolos Beach, a site which has received much recognition for its black sand – the colour deriving from the elements of the volcanic soil. This is the ideal spot for sunbathing while lying on the deckchairs that line the beach as the sound of summer music resounds throughout the vicinity. Weekendin 58 For those seeking an experience like none the other, there is nothing more fulfilling than an evening out in Oia at Ambrosia Restaurant with your loved one. This is where you satiate yourselves over a selection of the finest Greek cuisine at the restaurant’s terrace as you wait in anticipation the glorious sunset that looms over the horizon. The perfect marriage of the antique-filled interiors with the backdrop of tranquil magnificence of the Aegean Sea emanates an air of romance, a memory that will linger for a lifetime. When in Santorini, you will be in for a gastronomical adventure with the array of fresh produce that the locality has to offer. Many of the Greek cuisines are infused with locally-cultivated herbs which are known for the aromatic and curative properties. Be sure to try out the Mediterranean seafood such as their highly-rated fresh grilled fish. For couples that desire for a more thrilling experience, take your journey on this Greek island a notch higher by going scuba diving off the coast to discover the history of preceding volcanic events. Undersea rock formations and shipwrecks are some of the eye-openers in this geographicallyrich landscape. VISA REQUIREMENTS Singaporeans: No (For stay up to 90 days) British/ Australian/ Other Passports: No (For stay up to 90 days) FLIGHT ROUTE Singapore International Airport (SIN) - Doha International Airport (DOH) Athens International Airport (ATH) - Santorini Airport (JTR) FLIGHT PROVIDERS Qatar Airways: Flight to Athens from Singapore Aegean Airlines: Flight to Santorini from Athens 59 Weekendin