Tag - Greek Islands

1
4 most Dazzling Sunset Spots in the World
2
Most blissful islands worldwide
3
Holidays in Corfu! Beaches and Bars of Corfu
4
Did You Know? 7 Amazing Facts About Crete
5
Foodie Corner: What to eat in Corfu
6
Purple Tips: best beach bars in Greece
7
Purple Pick: Crete Family Holidays
8
Holidays help you live longer: Ikaria Greece

4 most Dazzling Sunset Spots in the World

Beach-side cities welcoming you to explore the most dazzling sunset spots in the world… Whether a magic urban landscape snuggles you with gleaming skyscrapers grooving on imposing dunes or you just choose to bury your toes in white sands, wherever you’ve positioned, we’ve tucked an inviting list with the best sunset viewing locations around the world!

Just imagine yourself indulging in alluring ocean views while cuddling to your loved ones, together, gazing at the  sunset, as the sky changes colors with the brushstrokes of rich crimsons, orange, lavender washing every corner of the majestic landscape… The romantic getaway with the most treasured experience is about to begin, are you ready?!

New York ”Everlasting wine-orange Boulevard in Manchattan”

“Manhattanhenge” in NYC

“Manhattanhenge” in NYC

Our beloved ‘’Concrete Jungle’’ looks more elegant with an enchanting sunset at her back right?!

Book an urban cruise, grab a refreshing Cosmo in your hand and sail away… You’ll be hooked for sure! Dazzling views embrace the shimmering cityscape, as the sunset hues reflects off the glass, while you are bewitched by bags of eye-candies, from magnificent steep skyscrapers, lovely popular bistros, world-class restaurants to vast blooming parks and endless boulevards….

Purple Tip: If you want to experience something bizarre and so pleasing at the same time, organize your NY trip when the Manhattanhenge phenomenon occurs. It’s  a unique spectacle that cannot be missed! It happens when the sunset is aligned with the city’s elliptical grid of streets, as a result, every North and South Street becomes brighter and all landmarks of the town are palpable against a ravishing luminous sky!

Santorini Island, Cyclades, Greece  The island-volcano nuzzled by the stained-glass blue of Aegean

Pure Bliss in the Island of Romance, Santorini

Pure Bliss in the Island of Romance

Have you seen real fairy-tales? No, no , we are not teasing you! We found the place where a glimpse on this sunset is like a chapter of a living-breathing story… We present you the pure magical sunset of Santorini island!

Sugar-cube white houses, winding cobblestone streets, gentle sea breezes and the wine-like, pale pink and blue-violet shades of the sunset poise the dark dunes of the volcanic backdrop and the enigmatic elegance that pervades it.

Sunsets here are different, more surreal! Plus, as you already know one of the most jaw-dropping in the world! It’s not a stroke of luck that the phrase: ‘’Arrive spellbound, depart speechless’’, was made exactly about the island of Romance.

Best viewing-points to watch these incomparable vistas in Santorini:

Promenade in Fira, Santo Winery: wine tasting with caldera views,  the old lighthouse, Thirassia island

Dubrovnik – The enigmatic charm of Croatia

Sunset tunes in Dubrovnic

Sunset tunes in Dubrovnic

George Bernard Shaw described it once as ‘’The pearl of the Adriatic’’. So, have you ever seen a color-palette? No? Then, we present you the 3rd picture-perfect destination to enjoy brilliant sunset tunes….

There’s been a hype around Dubrovnik especially the latest three years… So, you’d better fly off instantly and enjoy all these wonderful marvels that everyone talks about! Glittering blue-green bays, bustling nightlife and postcard-perfect Adriatic design! Natural treasures jumping off every corner of the old town, walled hamlets and cobblestone pathways along with unspoiled pristine beaches…Delve into history and be swept up in the everlasting charm of Bled! Imagine all these unique treasures blending with stunning ocean views where the sun dips quietly into the horizon… Be pampered by choice!

Maldives – The exotic earthly paradise

A slice of heaven!

Worldly colorful landscape

Once again, this place never fails to capture our mind and soul…  A special taste of paradise with endless sandy beaches and turquoise waters, cute bungalows along a serene coastline…

Diving and snorkeling is the ultimate must here! Delve into the greatness of the engrossing underwater world; infinite treasures all around, so, don’t miss the chance to uncover your own Nemo! Every corner is shadowed by a never-ending palm-lined shoreline and each island looks like a white-sand pearl that dots the deep blue of Indian Ocean…

Sense of awe never fails to descend when the sun sets! The emerald-blue of the sky blends with the crystal-clear cerulean of the sea, offering you sublime purple views. The sunlight sparkles, kissing the ocean, while you sip your favorite cocktail! Tranquility and pure serenity reigns supreme here…

.

 

Most blissful islands worldwide

Madeira, Portugal
Porto Santo bright lights by night

Porto Santo by night

Once again windy Madeira was named as one of the best islands in the world! The island is an archipelago of Portuguese islands in the Atlantic Ocean. Funchal is the capital of Madeira  settled in the 15th century. The greatest part of the island is an imposing botanical garden full of levadas, perfect for hiking trails. To explore its natural beauty you should surely visit the nearby villages, maintaining its charm. Gaze in wonder through mountain climbing to the summit of Pico Ruivo, you will feel like walking in heaven, as you revel in the eminent panoramic views of solidified lava…

Madeira's Nothern Wonders: Volcanically natural pools

Madeira’s Nothern Wonders: Volcanically natural pools

The Nothern road winds down through an amazing landscape of wild forests and lush valleys where you can find the famed terraced vineyards in Levada do Norte. Last but not least, don’t forget to unwind over a wine tasting at Pereira D’Oliveira. Porto Santo morphs into a party island on summer time, not to mention, the natural lava pools at Porto Moniz!

Santorini, Cyclades, Greece
ea0174b9c07bba2ddfc05e6a618b14e4

Endless deep blue…Soaking in the Aegean Sea

Looking for a mythical experience? The island of charm, ‘’immortalized’’ by famous poets, thanks to its coloured houses carved into cliffs and the most mesmerizing sunsets like an artist’s palette! A unique aura that overwhelms all senses with amazing views of the caldera creates wild landscape as you are strolling along Nea Kameni’s volcano. If you are a fearful adventurer, you can try scuba-diving into the thermal waters forming a volcanic spa at Palia Kameni or challenge yourself walking along the Oia’s path where an iridescent landscape await you on the dusk time.

If you are a history lover, take a visit at the ‘’Pompeian City of Aegean’’, the prehistoric Akrotiri and the museum of Prehistoric Thera at Fira. Of course, Santorini’s local specialties are among the most popular, as the greatest chefs blend traditional twist with modern gastronomy making Santorini one of the best culinary destinations! As, for the sunbathers there are unique beaches with a colors of red, black, white and red: Perissa, Perivolos, Kamari, Kokkini and Aspri Paralia (Red & White Beach).

Mauritius, Indian Ocean, Africa
G_____________________115556

Chillin’ with refreshing coconut drinks on the beach

One of the most favored tropical paradise in the world, Port Louis, the capital of Mauritius, is a bustling port with a modernized waterfront! Its beautiful well-known resorts, such as the Mont Choisy, Trou-aux-Biches and the Flic en Flac, perfect choice for scuba-divers or Rivière Noire for fishing. Mauritius’ crystal blue waters, endless sandy beaches and tropical climate, is an ideal go-to destination for honeymoons and jet setters too! Except for snorkeling and coconut refreshing cocktails there is much more to do on this island with its buzzing nightlife and rich culture.  Moreover, there are some things surely not to miss: Mahebourg market – the island’s traditional bazzar, Mauritius is also home to world’s golf lovers, Chamarel Colored Earths & Waterfalls, Sporting enthusiasts: Have a daytrip at Ille aux Cerfs,  Admire flora & fauna of Indian Ocean at Mauritius Aquarium or take a visit at Eureka delving into Mauritius’ colonial past.

Bali, Indonesia
the tem

Door of Heaven

Bali, the Indonesian paradise, feels like a earthly heaven with its incomparable beauty…. Bali is part of the Coral Triangle, known for its great diversity of marine species. Soak up the sun or dive along the amazing wreck of a WWII war ship! At artistic Ubud, you can see a cultural local dance or if you need some revival moments, invigorate mind & body in a yoga class. The eclectic Balinese tradition will get you hooked during your stay and it is mainly what sets this island apart from other tropical destinations. Most tourists visit also the island for its stunning ancient and nature wonders, active volcanoes and lush wild jungles!

BBLI-bali-biking

Wild nature comes alive…

Can’t miss – Facilities & Landmarks

  • What Not to Miss in Bali
  • Shopping at Seminyak & dining at Nasi Ayam Kedewatan restaurant
  • Explore Kuta – Amed & Lovina beaches
  • Dive off Pemuteran & Surfing at Medewi
  • Visit Puri Lukisan museum & Monkey Sanctuary
bali-1

Ancient temples leaves you speechless

 

 

 

 

Holidays in Corfu! Beaches and Bars of Corfu

Corfu people are happy and easy to get along with. They are also full of artistic activities such as music, theatre, painting etc. Corfiots love beach life so here are some picks of Corfu beaches and their bars so you can enjoy holidays in Corfu to the max!

Glyfada’s incredible beach is easily the most popular on the island. It’s well organized with plenty of loungers, umbrellas and showers. A great choice for families, the water is shallow and crystal clear, while the lifeguards on duty offer some peace of mind for parents with young children. The Aloha Beach Bar is full of life and is home to great parties in the evening. The relaxed atmosphere is perfect for young people who are starting their night with a cocktail.

Close by is the resort of Aghios Gordios, another well organized stretch of sand for people who want to try out some water sports or take some pictures. The long, sandy beach has plenty of loungers and parasols and the AloBar is worth the visit alone! Gorgeous view and really laidback, enjoying a cocktail here at sunset is the moment you know you’re on holidays.

Read More

Did You Know? 7 Amazing Facts About Crete

Crete customs

Image via @ IdleFormat

We’re nothing if not helpful here at Purple Travel, so make the most of your Greek holiday with our favourite facts about Crete.

#1 It’s said to be the birthplace of the supreme god Zeus. Legend has it; Zeus’ mother Rhea hid the newborn baby in a cave so he wouldn’t be killed by his father Cronus.

#2 It can be walked in 50 days. Well, if you follow the route of Belgian hiker Ivan Van Driesche. He decided to walk around the island as a fundraiser for stray animals and he did it in exactly 50 days.

#3 Crete has thousands of miles of beaches, making it an unparalleled choice for sun worshippers. There are lots of options for surfing or sunbathing, naturist beaches or scuba diving.

#4 A study in 1980 by Ancel Keys revealed that Crete is the healthiest country in the world and philosopher Hippocrates said the air of Crete has healing properties; this is a legend that continues today.

#5 It was Crete where Icarus, who flew too close to the sun, was from. Kept in prison by King Minos, he escaped with wings made from feathers and wax, but, unfortunately for him, he flew too close to the burning rays of the sun, his wings melted and he drowned in the sea.

#6 Many people in Crete own guns, but don’t worry it’s mostly for celebration reasons, especially at weddings.

#7 Crete is one of the oldest settlements in Europe, with remnants found that date back to 7 million BC.

For more information or to book cheap holidays in Crete talk to the experts at Purple Travel now.

Foodie Corner: What to eat in Corfu

corfu-fortress

Image via @Andrew Real

Not just a pretty face, the Greek Island of Corfu offers mouthwatering hotels Mediterranean cuisine, with a Venetian twist. After a long day soaking up the sunshine, what better way to spend an evening, than enjoying a home cooked meal of fresh fish, delicious vegetables and maybe a little tipple of local wine. Come find out more in our Corfu food guide.

pastitsada

Image via @ Lino Santagata

What to eat in Corfu

This is the most popular of local Corfu dishes. Made of shanks of veal stuffed with chopped garlic, parsley, salt and pepper, and is also seasoned with a spicy red sauce.

Purple Tip: The locals say that the sauce is successful only if it can stand on a man’s moustache.

sofrito

Image via @ Peter Streng

Sofrito

Thin slices of fried beef with a white sauce made of chopped garlic, parsley, white pepper, white wine, salt and vinegar. You can eat it either with rice and baked or mashed potatoes.

Purple Tip: Keep the necessary distances or you might knock someone over with garlic breath!

mpourdeto

Image via @ bit.ly/1aHFD1N

Bourdeto

This one goes to fish eaters. Cod fish is stewed with a red chilli sauce made of paprika and a whole red hot pepper, quenched with fresh lemon juice.

Purple Tip: Keep a glass of milk nearby to cool down a bit.

almonds

Image via @ Islaborg

Mandoles

And for those of you who have a sweet tooth….delicious roasted and caramelized almonds which you can find in every pastry shop around the island.

Purple Tip: Watch it with your teeth, because sometimes they are a bit too crunchy!

kumquat

Image via @ tiapicco

Kumquat liqueur

Kumquat is a citrus fruit which can be enjoyed in a variety of forms. The nicest and a Purple Travel team favourite, is as part of a mix of fine liqueur made with the fruit and peel of the kimquat.

Purple Tip: Have it as a digestif after a sumptuous meal or as a relaxing drink at your hotel’s terrace.

Book the best value cheap holidays in Corfu now with the Purple Travel expert team and save.

Purple Tips: best beach bars in Greece

Along with the perfect, well kept, golden sandy beaches, sparkling, crystal clear warm waters and buckets of sunshine, Greece is famous for its beach bars. Make it a mega summer with our top 5 best beach bars in Greece. Sit back, relax, grab a cocktail and enjoy!

Beach Bars in Greece: TherosImage via @ anjči

THEROS WAVE BAR, Santorini
On the exclusive Eros beach in Santorini, you’ll find the exotic Theros Wave Bar. Made entirely of wood and right on the beach, there are plenty of loungers, transparent warm waters, and excellent service, it’s a relaxed choice for day or night to enjoy a refreshing mojito.

Beach Bars in Greece: superparadiseImage via @ Diego Cosenza

SUPER PARADISE, Mykonos
Just outside Mykonos Town, Super Paradise is where to see and be seen. It’s one of the most alternative beach bars on the island. It’s found in a beautiful bay, is nude friendly, and has excellent fresh cocktails. They say it best: “Super Paradise is for almost everyone who wants to have fun in the sun amidst an eclectic crowd, with or without your clothes.”

Banana beach barImage via @ banana beach bar 

BANANA BEACH BAR, Skiathos
Loud music, great cocktails, a stunning beach; you’d be hard pushed to find a better beach bar on Skiathos than Banana. Go with your mates to get your night out started, or with your other half to soak up a dreamy sunset.

UPDATE: It is believed that Banana Beach Bar might be closed now but there are other bars on Banana Beach so don’t worry if you go we are sure you will find an excellent place!

Aloha

Image via @ sundayfundays

ALOHA BAR, Corfu
One of Corfu’s trendiest venues, the Aloha Bar packs them in all day and all night. The sun, sea and sand is the perfect combination for really letting loose on holiday and the cocktails are to die for.

manassu

Image via @ Nick Papakyriazis

BEACH BAR MANASSU, Sithonia-Halkidiki
The beaches in Halkidiki are like a secret that only Greeks know about. They are practically perfect, and just because it’s not an island does not mean you should stay away. The Beach Bar Manassu is a great choice. It is renovated every year to give customers a new experience every time. Its unique architecture, great service and delicious cocktails make it a must-see on any holiday.

Purple Pick: Crete Family Holidays

Chania

Family beaches

Marathi Beach is ideal for Crete family holidays with small children. It’s very protected, the water is calm and even in August when the famous Meltemi winds are high, this stays more sheltered than most. Grab your bucket and spade and head for the beach!

Elafonisi is a bit of a trek, but the water is clear and perfect and it’s great for swimming. About two hours from Chania, it’s well worth the day trip and the kids will love it.

Stalis Beach is very clean and just a short drive from Heraklion. Boasting the softest of sands and very clean waters. Just watch out if the wind picks up as the water can get a bit choppy.

You should read… The best family friendly beaches in Crete

Time travel

The old town in Chania makes for a great afternoon of exploring. It’s a little touristy, but we’re willing to bet kids will enjoy watching the boats come in at the harbour, stopping for ice cream in a cafe and wandering the winding streets.

Knossos Palace is a huge site where kids can learn about life dating as far back as 1900 BC. The best option is to get a tour guide to show you around and enthral you and your kids with the legends of ancient Minoan society.

Food in Crete is a way of life. Cretans take their food very seriously. So why not head out for an evening enjoying local favourites like dakos, dolmades or bougatsa for breakfast.

You should read… What to eat in Crete

Days Out

There are thousands of caves dotted throughout the island; Head for Dikteon Cave, on the Lassithi Plateau in the east of Crete, where legend has it Zeus was born. It’s open every day, so if you get fed up of the beach, it’s an obvious choice.

The Museum of Sea Life in Rethymno is located in a former abbey and has a huge display of all kinds of fish, fossils and shells, offering a good afternoon out.

Hike a gorge definitely one for more active or older children, Crete is actually home to several spectacular gorges. There are routes right along the coast and although some of them can be tough, it’s well worth it for the views out to see. Head for the Samaria Gorge, one of Europe’s longest at 18km.

The Aquaworld Aquarium and Reptile Rescue Centre in Hersonissos is the perfect way to discover the underwater world. Learn about the marine life of Crete with hundreds of fish and reptiles, get your picture taken with an unusual reptile and get up close and personal with a shark.

Water Parks

Aqua Plus in Hersonissos has tonnes of water rides to suit all ages. Just check out the names they’ve given the rides, how could anyone resist giving the Acquaslalom, Black Holes, Kamikaze Hydrotube or Crazy River a go?

WaterCity in Heraklion is the largest water park on the island. Offering 36 different slides, pools and amusements, as well as a couple of bars and restaurants, you can spend all day long here and not get tired.

Image via @ gterez

Holidays help you live longer: Ikaria Greece

Holidays to help you live longer: Ikaria Greece

Do you fancy a holiday that not only boasts beautiful sunshine, but could actually help you live longer? Then head for Ikaria Greece.

A small mountainous Greek Island in the Aegean, the residents there tend to reach an average age of 90. The remote island has long been intriguing scientists, who have been trying to find out why there are more healthy people in their 99th year than anywhere else on earth.

Apart from sunshine, which does wonders, here are a few reasons Ikarians live so long.

  1. Eat your greens Ikarians obviously listen to mum’s advice about eating their greens. There are over 150 varieties on the island, and most of what they eat they grow themselves. There are lots of veggies and beans and little meat and sugar. As well as that, their diet is dipped in extra virgin olive oil, which holds lots of natural antioxidants.
  2. Goats Researchers found that most of the people aged over 90 have been drinking goat’s milk almost every week. It’s easier to digest than cow’s milk and is said to be high in a hormone called tryptophan which reduces stress.
  3. Herbal teas the Ikarians are famous for their herbal teas which contain ingredients to lower blood pressure and even reduce the risk of dementia.
  4. Walk this way Ikaria is a mountainous place – so by default residents get lots of daily exercise by simply walking around, strolling to meet a friend for coffee, or heading down to the beach.
  5. Siesta Ikarians love a nap. A little mid afternoon snooze is said to decrease the chances of a heart attack and make you look and feel younger. So, not only are Ikarian’s a healthy bunch, but good looking to boot! Sleeping-in is a big priority too; people don’t really begin to start their days until around six in the evening.
  6. Laidback That phrase, ‘so laidback they are horizontal’ could have originated here. They don’t wear watches and there’s no hurry… anywhere. If you ask for the time, you won’t get an answer as most Ikarians don’t know, or care. Even other Greeks know it as a laidback island. If for example, you go to a restaurant be prepared to wait… and wait… and wait. If the baker doesn’t want to open up, then he won’t until he is good and ready.
  7. Hot Spring Ikaria has radium bearing hot springs that have been in use since way back in the 4th century BC. It won’t turn you into Superman, but a dip is likely to relieve joint pain and skin conditions, keeping you feeling fit and healthy.
  8. Dancing the night away Ikarians do love a party. Make sure you go to one of  the famous feasts, where you can drink the special wine which Homer called “Pramnios oinos” and where you can learn traditional Ikarian dances.

Book a cheap holiday to Greece with ABTA member Purple Travel today.

Copyright © 2013. Created by Meks. Powered by WordPress.