Sexy Santorini

Cue the Mamma Mia! music! We are going on a journey to the Sexy Santorini. I will start by saying that I am going to do no justice to the Island in the Aegean Sea, Santorini.

Where did I stay: Fira at the Melina Hotel (this place is still open and runs for about $100 bucks a night). It is within walking distance of the buses and the main area of Fira, which makes it a good central base for maximum fun.

Food and drink:

• Mythos - Greek Beer. A refreshing and crisp beer.

• Ouzo - Greek liqueur (I will let you be surprised on this one)

• Baklava - a dessert that dates back to the Ottoman Empire

• McDonald's. Before you cancel me, I try McDonalds in every country, and that has been fun to see the differences.

• The Meat Corner. Ate at this spot like it was going out of style. The gyro meat there was unbelievable.

Must see and do:

• Volcano hiking excursion. The one I booked included swimming in hot springs by Nea Kameni volcano, and a traditional Greek meal.

• Oia at sunset. I did this via the bus. If you get car sick, take medicine first!

• Dinner on the edge of the world in Fira, explore the shops as well

• Red Beach (stunning)

• Perissa Beach (perfect for you sand haters). I bought wine at a local store for 3 euros, and it was a liter of wine. It's a miracle I made the bus back :)

• Museum of Prehistoric Thera (a lot of cool old shit, like the head below)

• Check out the vineyards. I did Saint Antonio Vineyard

• DIY hike to Ancient Thira (9th century BC, very old). It took about 40 minutes, with great views once you arrive.
  

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My story for Santorini:

This story begins in the Madrid airport following my 23-hour layover. I was sitting next to a woman who asked me if this was my first time going to Santorini, I said yes. She then proceeds to warn me about how only experienced pilots can land there...yay. Lady this is the 5th flight of my life, why are trying to scare a girl?

Well, the good news, we landed OK and I slept zero minutes on the plane. The airport is tiny, tiny, and essentially one room. Since we landed so early, taxis had not started. Pro-tip and what I do now: Always look up how to get to your hotel before you fly and book in advance.

Side note: you cannot flush toilet paper here.

The week consisted of exploring, drinking, eating, and making lifelong memories. Fira even had a good nightlife playing early 2000s American songs. Pro-tip: If you cannot afford cocktails on the fancy balconies, find a nice spot and bring your own drink, we did wine (not sure of the legality here). Going for a week truly gave us the time to see most of the island and also relax on the beach. It truly is a magical place.

Final thought: Planning ahead is nice, but it is a balance. A lot that we did was spontaneous so it really is a balance when you travel. You might not get that tour or restaurant you want to try if you do not book in advance, but flexibility is priceless.