Greece - Santorini, Mykonos, Paros, Corfu
Updated: May 11
Santorini
This was my first introduction to Greece.
The ferry ride from Athens was impressive. I was fascinated to hear that this unusual set of islands is, in fact, a volcano. Still active, by the way, with the last eruption occurring in 1950. It is credited with destroying the Minoan civilisation on nearby Crete.
I booked accommodation in Fira to avoid the crowds of Oia. I found out that in September, there was no crowd anywhere.
I was starting my meditation journey at the time, and the sunsets in Santorini were a great inspiration. The color and texture of these sunsets are hard to describe, but they have remained deeply ingrained in my brain ever since.
Mykonos
The ferry ride from Santorini to Mykonos was peaceful.
I stayed at the Olia hotel in Mykonos, which I would recommend, as it is cute, affordable, and conveniently located between the ferry terminal and the town.
I delighted in the little streets and beautiful (empty) beaches.
September is a really good time to be in Greece. Quiet. Serene.
I also had a culinary orgasm when I discovered that Japanese-Peruvian cuisine was a thing.
When in Mykonos, do yourself a favor and check out Byblos.
Their wasabi ceviche changed my palate forever.
This was also my first experience with psychedelics.
In this idyllic environment, I was offered a tab of LSD. I had always been curious, but I had never dared!
Mykonos was the place. The year was 2017. I embarked on a journey that took me to intensely interesting places within myself for a good twelve hours.
I thought my hands were fascinating. Bones, cartilage, skin, and unique fingerprints? Hours of fun!
I met this pine cone in the town. They are everywhere in Greece, but my French-American brain could not compute the grace and sacred geometry of this pod that releases seeds into the world and helps trees grow. How magical!
It was the start of my love for Earth-based spirituality.
I research Paganism, which was well-rooted in France prior to Christianity.
Paros
I went to Paros in December.
The island was deserted of tourists. It was so nice to connect with the locals.
As in all Greek islands, I had my fill of cats, and they were not shy. Special mention to the cats of Antiparos, who do not see many tourists and are the friendliest.
I started every morning with meditation. The park behind the church or the beach was my place of choice.
I met a French couple who own La Baguette and are offering a wide variety of French treats.
Doing yoga outside has become an imperative for me.
I understand the energy and the container offered by a yoga class. I have attended a lot of yoga classes and greatly value the knowledge and attention of yoga teachers.
My journey with yoga led me to move intuitively, according to my body's needs. My heart needs the sky above me rather than a ceiling, and trees all around rather than my peers.
I started a daily habit of moving my body intuitively through yoga after meditation, giving me the best start for the day.
I spent my afternoons hiking all around the island, alone and free.
Corfu
I stayed in a historic apartment in the heart of Corfu town.
The old town of Corfu is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and features an impressive Old Fortress, the Achilleion Palace and a distinctive style of colorful Venetian facades.
Hiking on Corfu is a treat if you are not afraid of cliffs.
The lovers of clear waters and sea-bathing will not be left behind with the iconic Kanoni peninsula and the beaches of Paleokastritsa.
The village of Perithia was once a pirate's hideaway and provides a mix of history and natural beauty.
Corfu has it all: beaches, history, and remarkable food.
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