... You had all the time and money in the world?
Travel is one of my favorite things to do. During this pandemic, it’s hard to travel to any place right now. Most places are closed or you need to stay in lockdown for 14 days when you arrive, and that is just wrong. Traveling right now is also much more expensive, especially here in Nicaragua, since some airlines are still not coming, but… what would I do if I had all the time and money in the world? I would travel to Santorini, Greece of course.
Map of the island of Santorini, Greece
But first, some technical information. According to the U.S. Embassy and Consulate in Greece, The Department of State is advising U.S. citizens not to travel to Greece due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As of May 16, 2021, Greece reports 377,090 cases according to the National Public Health Organization. Also, Greece is only allowing EU, Schengen citizens, and people permanently residing in the United States, and certain other countries. All travelers must present a negative PCR test or proof that they have completed COVID-19 vaccination at least 14 days prior to their trip to Greece. Masking is also required indoors or outdoors to prevent the spread of the virus.
If you are still willing to go with all these restrictions and more, here are the top 5 things you can do in Santorini, Greece.
#1: Watch an amazing sunset in Oia. You can choose the perfect spot in town or book a table in one of the restaurants that overlook the sea and you will be in for a real treat.
This picture shows the amazing sunsets you can see in Oia.
#2: Go visit local museums and ancient ruins. There is so much history to witness there! Archaeologists are currently working on unearthing what many consider to be the lost city of Atlantis. Check out this website that suggests 8 different museums to visit.
#3: Grab some local food because Greece is known for its amazing food; Santorini is no exception. I really want to try souvlaki, chunks of skewered pork that is the go-to fast food there served on chopped tomatoes and onions in pitta bread with lashings of tzatziki. The famous Gyros are served in the same way.
Fresh fish is exceptionally delicious in Greece.
#4: Hike to the top of Santorini Volcano. You will need to hop on board a local boat and jump over to Nea Kameni island. This volcano is still active, so pray that it doesn’t “wake up” when you are hiking there.
This is the type of boat you need to go to get to the top of the mountain.
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Landscape at the top of the Volcano.
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#5: A trip to Greece would not be complete if you didn’t sail around Santorini island. The routes will head around some parts of the bay, visit the Volcanic Island and even have a little time for diving into the deep blue sea.
This picture shows boats sailing around Santorini
These are all amazing activities that you can do while in Greece- that is, if you had all the time and money in the world, and if the pandemic did not get in the way… It’s nice to dream, isn’t it?