LIVE24SEVEN // Travel
Mykonos
ECCENTRIC AND COSMOPOLITAN
Mykonos was a complete surprise for me. Described as the most eccentric and cosmopolitan of the Cyclades, it’s definitely a party island, boasting the most exciting and sophisticated nightlife in Greece, with an incredible vibe all of its own, however for those looking beyond that, it can quite easily be considered one of the most magnificent of all the Greek Islands. It’s actually a delightful – and some might say more entertaining – alternative to Santorini, with all its whitewash beauty, but with a little more oomph when desired and significantly more designer shopping! More on that later…
My home for the trip was in the coveted area of Agios Ioannis, admired for its clear waters and views. The very popular and privately owned St John Hotel, stylishly designed in the traditional Greek white and pale pastels, featured immaculate, well-equipped rooms and restaurant areas and was the perfect base – like a small village – in a quite fabulous location.
During summer months, don’t be surprised to see Rhianna or one of the many other A-list set strutting their stuff by the hotel pool, as Mykonos Hotel Resort St John is well known for its starry guests. Water babes can take a dip in the large infinity pool with stunning views of the sea beyond whilst keeping an eye on the celebrity action; alternatively, the hotel has its own beach, the setting for many films, offering clear blue waters,
sandy sunbathing area and rocks which you can dive from or just perch for a while and take in the view ‘Shirley Valentine style’, which reminds me, in addition to a host of restaurants from gourmet to the more relaxed, St John Hotel also has numerous bars, to include Shirley Valentine’s Bar, perfect for relaxing with one of their signature cocktails. From the dining experience to the fabulous spa area with a list of top treatments available, its own tennis courts and its very own chapel for wedding ceremonies, St John’s idyllic location and facilities are certainly worthy of its 5 star status.
In contrast to the night life, the most enchanting area of Mykonos Town (Chora) is Little Venice, which is pretty much as the name describes, an enchanting quarter that boasts white
sugar cube cute two-storey buildings equipped with blue wooden overhanging balconies and charming terraces, all lit up to their best advantage and appearing to change in colour with the sun.
An abundance of small tavernas, delightful eateries, friendly bars and little boutique style shops start at the water’s edge and stretch back through narrow, cobbled alleyways, which are also home to whitewashed churches. Not to be missed and a fundamental part of the island’s history are the famous windmills – the sunset from here is breathtaking. You could spend hours walking around this area or simply relaxing in one of the friendly bars or restaurants, this is authentic Mykonos, as authentic as the delicious food served up, especially those Mykonian cheese pies, a side to this island that shouldn’t be missed.
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