The Greece Guide to Milos, Folegandros, Santorini and Mykonos with Spiritual Gangster
They say Bali is the island of the gods, but I’d beg to differ. This side of the northern hemisphere, the Greek Islands are most certainly rich with thousands of years of culture, traditions and myths. Where ancient volcanos once roamed, filled with the stories of Zeus, Athena, Hercules & Poseidon, the chain of islands in the Mediterranean is a breathtaking collection of turquoise waters, dry, arid land, stunning sunsets and a damn good food.
I was fortunate to be able to explore this perfect pocket of Europe, brimming with colours, life and a deep sense of tradition. While stuffing myself with as much olives and feta was definitely a highlight, it was also, surprisingly, a beautiful place to remind ourselves of the ripple effect gratitude has. The local Greek people were a testament to how tradition and a simple way of life are heartfelt approach to being grateful for what, and who, you have in your life.
And so it was, I swam, ate, drank, got lost, got sunburnt, danced and stretched my way through 4 islands. All very different to one another. Whether you’re looking for some down time to relax, or a festive place to raise your vibration and share joy and laughter, Greece really does have it all. Below is a guide to 4 very different, and very beautiful islands : Mykonos, Folegandros, Milos & Santorini.
Head to the Spiritual Gangster Blog to read the full guide HERE
Folegandros
This island is a little-known secret, one I’m not entirely sure I should be sharing with the rest of the world! I arrived in Folegandros purely by mistake, but now that I think of it, planned by fate, and infused with luck (Read about this particular adventure here)
STAY: Anywhere, this is the most beautifully traditional Greek island you will ever come across.
DO: Explore the beaches, Agkali in particular was stunning. If you're there at the right time, have a party with the locals!
How to Get Around
There are many ways to get around from one island to another in Greece. Mainly plane or boat. If you are pressed for time, then plane is definitely the way to go however these can be extremely expensive. The other is ferry. The distances between each island is sometimes quite far and ferries are notoriously unreliable (read: tardy & slow. You’ll find out why further down) – it’s still a much cheaper way to get around and you can choose between fast or slow ferries, depending on how sensitive you are to sea sickness! While I tried both, I actually found slow ferries much more reliable, cheaper, bigger, comfortable and all in all more enjoyable then the tiny sea jets.
Try : Ferries In Greece
Milos
STAY: Any Air BnB will do, everything is moderately priced and you will happily find something to suit your budget and needs. Stay close to the port, in Adamantas, as everything you’ll want will be around there.
DO:
Rent a car to get around the island. It’s quite big and you’ll want to explore in your own time! (Side Note: Make sure you can drive Stick!)
Visit Sarakiniko rocks, you’ll think you’re walking on the moon.
Go to Firyplaka Beach, there’s a spot of sand nestled between the clifftops that melt into the ocean. The waters are calm, blue, and the sunsets are amazing. I spent most of my time on this beach.
Have dinner up in Plaka, the old town at the top of the hill. The tiny restaurants are filled with life, good food and high vibes.
Take a boat trip around the island to Kleftiko. Easily one of the most beautiful views you will ever see, white stone cliffs diving into turquoise waters. You get to swim around and spend the day in this lush playground.
Mykonos
STAY: Eternal Suites, Mykonos. Just outside of the Chora, you can walk down to the hustle and bustle and still have your own space and quiet time. The owner is a legend and the view from our balcony was insane!
EAT: Nikko’s in the center of town. Traditional, typical Greek food. Everyone goes here, you won’t miss it, just follow the crowds!
DO: Walk around the "chora" or centre of Mykonos Town. Day or night, it's filled with shops and hosts some the most amazing Greek jewelry you have ever seen.
What to wear
You pretty much only need a set of bikinis, some yoga gear to stretch and your favourite yoga mat! Here’s what I traveled with:
The Spiritual Gangster Shine Line One Piece
The Spiritual Gangster Cozumel Top + Bottom
Spiritual Gangster Palm Print Sports Bra
Spiritual Gangster High Vibe Palm Print Leggings
Santorini
STAY: Imerovigli, A quieter, less crowded town about 15 mins from Oia and on the same side of the cliff. The village is just as stunning and you will enjoy the sunset just the same. I’ll let you in on a little secret: Like every traveler, I was on a budget. But I struck gold when I found a hotel that proved to be not as pricey as the rest, yet still had that million dollar view. Veranda View is the “sister” company of luxurious, 5 star “On The Rocks,” but for 1/3 of the price. It’s a little-known secret, one that I’m happy to share with SG readers as it’s quite the value for money! If you’re going to splurge, definitely splurge in Santorini. You’ll get access to the 5-star pool and spend the day lounging on the deck, looking out at the most amazing view.
DO: Live like a King for the day and lavish a little! Spend some time at the pool, enjoy the view, the stroll the streets in the afternoon. Santorini isn’t really known for its beaches, since everything is so high up on the cliffs.
