Asheville For Families: Fun And Adventure

BY  Sibashree Oct 23, 2025

It was my first day on the Tucumán wine route, and I saw a few local guys pouring a few drops of wine on the field before tasting it. I was amazed, as at my house I have seen my grandfather offering small portions of food to the gods before having it.  I did not expect to see a similar culture thousands of miles away. I walked to them and asked about the ritual. A guy said, “This is how we pay respect to Pachamama, the Mother Earth.”  Now, this is what traveling does! It creates a common ground when everyone feels the connection, even when exploring the new.  Tucumán, with its Afro-Argentine history and a rich indigenous Diaguita culture, is now expecting more tourists with improved connectivity. The flagship carrier of Panama, Copa Airlines, has now started a flight service to Tucumán from Panama City.  The cradle of Argentina’s independence, Tucumán is also known as the Garden of the Republic for its greenery and a rich agricultural scene. Furthermore, the nearby mountains make Tucumán a favorite of hikers and adventure lovers.  With so many things to see and history, culture, culinary richness, and adventure shaking hands, I had a tough time making the ideal Tucumán, Argentina itinerary.  The best approach is to make an itinerary based on your interests and the side of Tucumán you want to explore.  Knowing Tucumán, Argentina Located in the northwest of Argentina, Tucumán has Andean foothills, subtropical forests, and lush valleys. Thus, it gets the name El Jardín de la República or the Garden of the Republic.  Furthermore, San Miguel de Tucumán, the capital of the province, is historically significant as Argentina declared its independence here in 1816.  The province enjoys Spanish colonial influences along with the indigenous Diaguita-Calchaquí heritage. Furthermore, the province enjoys a strong Afro-Argentine and Catholic influence. Did You Know These Cultural Facts About Tucumán, Argentina?  The Diaguita people still practice traditional weaving and pottery. Afro-Argentine communities in Tucumán celebrate unique music and dance traditions. The Fiesta Nacional de la Empanada is held annually in Famaillá. The region has a strong tradition of folk music, including zamba and chacarera. The Jesuit legacy is visible in old missions and churches. Local artisans use natural dyes from native plants. The city of Tafí del Valle hosts indigenous spiritual ceremonies. Traditional medicine practices are still used in rural areas. The sugar industry shaped much of Tucumán’s modern history. Local legends and myths are passed down through oral storytelling. How To Reach Tucumán, Argentina?  Now, Tucumán has a direct flight from Panama City. However, the most common route is flying to the Ezeiza International Airport in Buenos Aires. From there, you will have to take a flight to the Teniente General Benjamín Matienzo International Airport in San Miguel de Tucumán.  If you are in Europe, you can connect via Madrid or Frankfurt. American tourists can fly through major hubs like Miami or Dallas. Long-distance buses and trains also connect Tucumán with other Argentine cities, offering scenic and budget-friendly options. A 7-day Travel Itinerary For Tucumán, Argentina Wine Region View this post on Instagram A post shared by Marisa Cecilia D Onofrio (@marisa_dot1) It was the second day of my Tucumán, Argentina wine tour. I was at Bodega Los Amaichas, and it happened to be early March, very much in the harvest season of Argentina. I saw a Quechua woman who was sorting the grapes.  I asked her, “Can I be of any help?” She smiled and gave me a basket full of grapes. I spent two hours crushing the grapes. Then, she handed me a glass of sweet Torrontés as the reward.  They say that you have not been on the wine route of Tucumán if your hands and feet are not purple at the end of the day. Here is what I did during my 7-day wine tour. 7-Day Tucumán Wine Region Itinerary DaysActivities Day 1• Arrival at San Miguel de Tucumán, the provincial capital• Visiting Casa Histórica de la Independencia and Plaza Independencia• Lunch and Torrontés session• Spending Night at San MiguelDay 2• Driving via Provincial Route 307 through the Yungas forest and into the Calchaquí Valleys.• Reaching Bodega Los Amaichas. Bodega Los Amaichas is the first Latin American winery run by a community. • Grape crushing session• Tasting the finest TorrontésDay 3• Stopping at Colalao del Valle on the Tucumán wine route• Exploring Bodega Las Arcas de Tolombón in search of high-altitude wines• Having humita and locro for lunch. • Exploring nearby wineries and vineyards, and staying overnight at Amaicha del Valle. Day 4• Visiting the Ciudad Sagrada de Quilmes, the largest pre-Columbian archaeological site in Argentina.• Driving the scenic Cuesta del Infiernillo mountain pass for panoramic valley views.• Wine tasting in the evening • Overnight stay in Amaicha or Colalao.Day 5• Visiting high-altitude wineries (1,750–3,000 m)• Learning about high-altitude viticulture and local grape varieties (Malbec, Torrontés, Cabernet Sauvignon)• Lunch at a local winery restaurant• Spending the evening in the valleyDay 6• Drive to San Miguel de Tucumán• Stopping by Tafí del Valle for a walk around the village• Reaching San Miguel de Tucumán in the evening• Having dinner and relaxing in San Miguel de TucumánDay 7• Shopping at San Miguel• A farewell lunch• Leaving for the airport  5- Day Cultural Itinerary For Tucumán, Argentina View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tucumán Turismo (@tucumanturismo) The rich heritage, history of Argentine independence, and traditions of Tucumán make it an ideal place for cultural exploration.  From colonial landmarks and indigenous heritage to vibrant festivals and museums, this multi-day plan offers a deep dive into the cultural fabric of the region. DaysActivitiesDay 1• Guided tour and watching the reenactments at Casa Histórica de la Independencia, the birthplace of Argentine Independence• Exploring the neoclassical Catedral de San Miguel de Tucumán• Walking through Plaza Independencia and cherishing the local cafes and colonial buildings in the surroundingsDay 2• Visiting Museo Miguel Lillo and seeing exhibits on botany, paleontology, and zoology• Getting familiar with the local art scene at Museo Provincial de Bellas Artes Timoteo Navarro• Watching cultural performance at Teatro San MartínDay 3• Visiting the Quilmes Ruins• Diaguita cultural experience in Amaicha del Valle• Visiting Museo PachamamaDay 4• Attending a folkloric performance• Exploring the local marketsDay 5• Visiting the urban park of Parque 9 de Julio• Having a meal and watching a folkloric performance at a peña folklórica• A stroll through the historic city center I was in Tucuman when the carnival had just ended. If you want to be a part of the carnival here, you must plan a trip around the end of February. Furthermore, the National Festival of the Pachamama, the biggest festival here, is held in Amaicha del Valle during the month of August.  6-Day Adventure Itinerary For Tucumán, Argentina View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tucumán Turismo (@tucumanturismo) Tucumán is a hub for trekking, paragliding, and kayaking activities across some of the region's most scenic and exciting destinations. Here is a 6-day itinerary for you.  DaysActivitiesDay 1• Reaching San Miguel de Tucumán and checking into the hotel. • Gathering information about local weather and transportation updates. Day 2Trekking in Parque Sierra de San Javier• Trekking on the Risto Bendicente trail and the trail to Villa Nougués• Exploring diverse wildlife• Enjoying panoramic viewpoints Day 3Paragliding at Loma Bola• Enjoying beautiful views of the Yungas forest during paraglidingDay 4• Kayaking at El Cadillal ReservoirDay 5• Exploring Casa Histórica de la Independencia and Parque 9 de Julio• Trying local cuisineDay 6• Morning stroll along the historic center• Departure for the airport You can even have an extra day for adventure tourism. Talk to your tour operator if you are interested in zipline, mountain biking, or horseback riding.  Tucumán Aventura, offering trekking and kayaking tours, Loma Bola Parapente, specializing in paragliding experiences, and EcoViajes Tucumán, providing eco-friendly adventure packages, are some of the best tour operators here.  Safety Tips For Adventure Trips In Tucumán Always follow the guidance of certified tour operators. Wear appropriate gear for each activity. Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun. Inform someone of your itinerary and expected return times. Carry a basic first aid kit. Gear Recommendations For Adventure Trips In Tucumán Trekking boots and breathable clothing Lightweight backpack Sunscreen and insect repellent Waterproof jacket Helmet and harness for paragliding Life jacket and dry bag for kayaking A 7-Day General Itinerary For Tucumán, Argentina View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tucumán Turismo (@tucumanturismo) A bit of history, culture, wine tasting, and food? Well, if you want an eclectic experience, you can try this 7-day itinerary.  DaysActivitiesDay 1• Arrival in San Miguel de Tucumán• Exploring Plaza Independencia and Casa HistóricaDay 2• Exploring the cafes, shopping, and nightlife at Yerba BuenaDay 3• A scenic drive to Tafí del Valle• Enjoying the lake views• Exploring the artisan marketsDay 4• Visiting the indigenous museum and Pachamama Museum at Amaicha del ValleDay 5• Exploring the ancient Diaguita fortressDay 6• Wine tasting in Colalao del ValleDay 7• Return to San Miguel• Enjoying local cuisine• Departure for the airport Top Hotels, Resorts, And Stays In Tucumán, Argentina The Name of HotelsWhy FamousSheraton Tucumán HotelLuxury stay with spa and poolGarden Park HotelCentrally located with modern amenitiesHotel BicentenarioGreat for families and business travelersEstancia Las CarrerasColonial-style lodge in Tafí del ValleHostería LunahuanaBoutique hotel with mountain views Must-Visit Destinations In Tucumán, Argentina Exploring Tucumán, Argentina, is a rich cultural experience. However, try to cover these places when you are in Tucumán.  1. Casa Histórica De La Independencia View this post on Instagram A post shared by Argentureros | Viajes | Destinos | Filmaker (@argentureros) This iconic building in San Miguel de Tucumán is where Argentina's Declaration of Independence was signed on July 9, 1816. It’s a key historical landmark. 2. Parque Sierra De San Javier View this post on Instagram A post shared by Luciana Lescano (@lucianaa.lescano) A natural park offering hiking trails, stunning panoramic views, and a peaceful escape into the lush greenery of the Sierra de San Javier mountains. 3. Tafí Del Valle Nestled in the Calchaquí Valleys, Tafí del Valle is famous for its cool climate, scenic landscapes, and traditional craft markets. A perfect spot for nature lovers. 4. Quilmes Ruins These ancient ruins are remnants of the Quilmes indigenous civilization, providing insight into their advanced society and their resistance to Spanish conquest. 5. Amaicha Del Valle Amaicha del Valle has the famous Pachamama Museum. Also, the charming town in the Calchaquí Valleys is ideal for learning about the indigenous people and their culture.  6. Museo Miguel Lillo View this post on Instagram A post shared by Marce Almaráz (@marce_almaraz23) Are you interested in the prehistoric fossils, local flora, and fauna? Visit the natural history museum of Museo Miguel Lillo.  7. San Pedro De Colalao View this post on Instagram A post shared by ꧁ 𝓢𝓪𝓷 𝓟𝓮𝓭𝓻𝓸 𝓭𝓮 𝓒𝓸𝓵𝓪𝓵𝓪𝓸꧂ (@sanpedrodecolalaoturismo) Home to Gruta de Lourdes, San Pedro de Colalao is a charming village and pilgrimage site. It has a serene ambiance.  8. Cristo Bendicente View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ⓛⓔⓣⓨ (@leticia_ysa) Cristo Bendicente is a giant statue of Jesus Christ on Cerro San Javier. From here, you can enjoy wonderful views of the surroundings.  9. Villa Nougués It is a quintessential European village located in the foothills. It has a lush green surrounding, and you will love the quaint streets and peaceful ambiance here.  Food Culture And Culinary Tours In Tucumán, Argentina Empanadas, tamales, humitas y locro! Tucumán is a place that takes the ancestral recipes to the international tourists. Furthermore, Tucumán is home to the annual National Empanada Festival in Famaillá.  Empanada in Tucuman is different from these delicacies in other parts of the country. The crust here is thicker and perfectly baked or fried. Furthermore, the chopped meat and the abundance of white onions make it special.  Traditional peñas are the best places to try the local dishes and enjoy the folk music. Furthermore, you can join cooking classes here.  Moreover, don’t miss the regional desserts like quesillo with honey and dulce de cayote. 10 Sustainable And Ethical Travel Tips For Tucumán, Argentina 1. Support local artisans and markets.2. Choose eco-lodges and green-certified hotels.3. Avoid single-use plastics.4. Respect indigenous customs and traditions.5. Use public transport or bike rentals.6. Participate in community-based tourism.7. Conserve water and electricity.8. Avoid disturbing wildlife.9. Volunteer with local NGOs.10. Leave no trace when hiking or camping. Accessibility And Travel For Seniors And People With Disabilities Many hotels in San Miguel de Tucumán, such as Hotel Carlos V and Garden Park Hotel, offer wheelchair-accessible rooms and elevators.  Public spaces like Plaza Independencia and major museums are accessible. However, rural areas may lack infrastructure, so it’s best to plan ahead and contact accommodations directly. Tucumán Nightlife And Evening Activities Tucumán’s nightlife is vibrant, especially in Yerba Buena. Enjoy live folk music at peñas, dance at local clubs, or relax at rooftop bars. Cultural centers often host evening performances and art exhibitions. Best Seasons To Visit Tucumán, Argentina April to October is the best time to visit Tucumán as the weather is dry and mild in these months. Furthermore, the summer season from December to February can be hot and humid.  Nevertheless, here is a monthly temperature breakdown of Tucumán. (Source: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, NOAA). MonthsTemperature (Degree Celsius)January20-32February20-31March18-29April15-26May11-22June8-20July7-20August8-24September11-27October15-30November18-31December19-32 Cultural Etiquettes For Foreign Tourists Greet with a handshake or cheek kiss. Dress modestly when visiting churches.  Learn a few Spanish phrases.  Always ask permission before taking photos of people.  Tipping is customary in restaurants (10%). Budget And Affordability For A 7-Day Travel Vacation View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tucumán Turismo (@tucumanturismo) The expenses in Tucuman include accommodation, meals, transport, and activities. Budget options include hostels and public buses, while mid-range travelers can enjoy boutique hotels and guided tours. Types of TravelerExpensesSolo Traveler$500–$700 (Per Day)Couples$900–$1200 (Per Day)Family of 4:$1500–$2000 (Per Day) Crime Rates And Safety Tips In Tucumán, Argentina Authorities such as The Guardian have already highlighted how women’s rights are being violated in Argentina. In recent times, Argentina has been the only country to “vote against a UN general assembly resolution to prevent and eliminate violence against women and girls.” Furthermore, it is dangerous that the Javier Milei administration has plans to remove femicide from the Argentine Penal Code. So, this raises a question about women travelers to the country.  Also, the following numbers about the crime rate of Tucumán are very alarming. (Source: Numbeo). Crime Level84.22Crime Increased in the Last Five Years87.35Robbery and Mugging86.44Things from Car Stolen84.00 So, follow the recent travel advisory of your country before planning a trip. Is Visiting An Off-Beat Location Like Tucumán Worth It? Yes, visiting an off-beat destination such as Tucumán is absolutely worth it, as the less touristy the place is, the more meaningful the connection and experiences you will have.  Furthermore, Tucumán offers a unique blend of history, culture, nature, and gastronomy. Also, the adventure activities here are a favorite among the young-at-heart travelers.  Tucumán Argentina Itinerary: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about Tucumán Argentina Itinerary.  1. What Language Do They Speak In Tucumán? Spanish is the language in Tucumán. However, the intonation of the Spanish language here is a little different. Thanks to the impact of Creole and Italian languages, the Spanish language here is similar to what is spoken in Buenos Aires. Southern Quechua is another popular dialect here.  2. Is Tucumán Expensive For Tourists? Argentina has been facing a high rate of inflation and monetary woes due to inconsistent policies and a parallel black market economy post the run on banks in 2001. So, today, visiting Argentina is way expensive than expected. However, Tucumán, located in the Northern region, is one of the most affordable areas of Argentina. Affordable street food and budget-friendly accommodations make the trip more affordable.Still, the imported adventure gear here is pretty expensive. So, if you are here on an adventure holiday, your budget will be higher than for wine tours and cultural exploration.  3. What Are Popular Foods In Tucumán? Empanadas are the best in Tucumán, and it is different from those in other parts of Argentina. The sandwiches or sánguche de milanesa here are also delicious. 

BY  Sibashree Jan 30, 2025

Despite having famous cultural trails and many important museums in the USA, Indianapolis tourism has always been affected by safety concerns. Is Indianapolis safe? This is the question that people keep asking, considering the high crime rate.  2024 was a relatively good year for Indianapolis as the crime rates decreased from 2023.  So, Indiana's public safety leaders are planning to keep the momentum with public safety plans.  Further, there are endeavors to bring positive changes in the community. So, despite having a 43.82 crime rate and 100 homicides taking place in Indianapolis in 2024, it is making every effort to change for the better.   Moreover, the homicide rate in the state has gone down consistently every year since 2021. So, is Indianapolis safe to travel to? You can travel to some parts of the state as they are safer.  Do you want to know about these safer areas in Indianapolis? Here is the list with brief details about the places to visit. Is Indianapolis Safe? Yes, You Can Visit The Following Places  Indianapolis has a crime rate way higher than the national average. However, that does not indicate that all parts of Indianapolis are crime-infested.  For example, the downtown area and the neighborhoods in the northeast have higher crime rates. On the other hand, Greenwood, Carmel, and Zionsville have lower crime rates. So, learn where you will stay in Indianapolis during your next trip. 1. Zionsville In Boone County, Zionsville has remarkably maintained a low crime rate (1 in 1000). The first place of attraction in Zionsville is Traders Point Creamery. It is a 19th-century dairy barn promoting a farm-to-table culture in Zionsville.  You can even visit the Fanimation Antique Fan Museum, Zionsville Nature Center, and the Starkey Nature Park in Zionsville.  2. West Lafayette If you want to live in a place filled with a youthful vibe, West Lafayette in Tippecanoe County will be your instant favorite. Here, the crime rate is low (1 in 1000).  West Lafayette has many places of tourist attractions, and Purdue University is the best among them. The Ross-ade Stadium, Mackey Arena, Fort Ouiatenon, and Lily Nature Center are some favorites of locals and tourists in West Lafayette.  3. Fishers https://www.instagram.com/p/C7hOb1uuzmb/?img_index=1 Fishers, a growing suburb bordering Carmel, is one of the safest places to visit in Indianapolis. Ritchey Woods Nature Preserve is one of the most prominent tourist attractions in Fishers.  Further, you can visit the Conner Prairie Museum, Flat Fork Creek Park, Cheeny Creek National Park, etc., to spend some time in nature at Fishers.  4. Highland Along the southern tip of Lake Michigan, Highland in Indianapolis is one of the safest places in Indianapolis. Highland is a great place to visit in Indianapolis, also its proximity to Chicago makes it accessible.   5. Brownsburg https://www.instagram.com/p/C9zvwB1OfSo/ Brownsburg has been growing in the last few decades, and when asked is Indianapolis safe or not, Brownsburg is the place you need to visit.  Furthermore, Brownsburg has visitor attractions like Williams Park and Natural Valley Ranch. 6. Crown Point Lake County, in northwest Indiana, has Crown Point, one of the most peaceful places in Indianapolis. So, if you want to know is Indianapolis safe, Crown Point can be your go-to destination.  Crown Point is also close to Chicago, and you will love the quintessential small-town vibe here. Moreover, the places to visit here are Lemon Lake County Park and Lake County Historical Museum.  7. Avon Avon in Hendricks County has the best amenities and is known for its public parks. Further, just 20 minutes away from Indianapolis, Avon, the newest community here, is also growing at the fastest pace.  The places to visit are Washington Township Park, Avon Town Hall Park, and the most beautiful Avon Gardens.  Moreover, don’t miss a bite of the pork tenderloin sandwich when you are in Avon. The Coachman Restaurant & Lounge is one such place for indulging in gastronomic delight.  8. Dyer Dyer, a safer place in Indianapolis, has many public parks. When in Dyer, you will get to drive along the Ideal Stretch. It was a manifestation of the vision of having a coast-to-coast rock highway by Carl G. Fisher.  It was the first paved road in Indianapolis. Further, Meyer's Castle is an important historic landmark in the city.  Moreover, don’t miss a gastronomic delight at DOC's Smokehouse & Craft Bar. Here, everything you get is made using fresh and local ingredients.  9. Carmel Carmel, nestled in Hamilton County, has the second-lowest crime rate in Indianapolis. You will find the Monon Trail here, where you can hike, bike, and explore the city hotspots. Further, Carmel will never disappoint you with its copious dining and entertainment options. You can visit the Clay Terrace, a community lifestyle center.  Moreover, you can explore dining options here are Juniper on Main at 110 E Main Street, Carmel. It serves amazing crabs and deviled eggs; you can reach them at (317) 591-9254.  10. Greenwood Located in the Johnson County of Indianapolis, Greenwood has a Farmer's Market and a distinct vibe that distinguishes it from the hustle and bustle of Indianapolis.  The places to visit are the Greenwood Park Mall, Old City Park, shopping malls, etc.  Is Indianapolis Safe? A Tour And Travel Note On Safety Tips  The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) works closely with the local community to maintain law and order in Indianapolis. Furthermore, the local people here are very welcoming.  Still, you need to follow some safety tips if you are planning a trip to Indiana, and here they are! Do A Little Research About The Place You Want To Visit As I have already shared a list of safer areas in Indianapolis, you can choose your place to stay or vacation.  Avoid Walking Alone At Night This is like a thumb rule when you are new to a city. So, even if you are staying in Zionsville or some of the safer places in Indianapolis, you must wander around the city alone. And you must especially avoid areas like the Canal Walk or Downtown at night.  Seek Assistance From A Local Guide If you want to explore the nearby neighborhood or want to learn about Indianapolis culture, you can seek assistance from a local guide.  Further, you can join a community tour conducted by a local tour operator if you are new to the city and want to explore new places.  Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13+ Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit. Top Tips For Motorbike Rental In Phuket – A Guide To Exploring The Island On Two Wheels.

BY  Arnab Jul 25, 2023

Churches, Venetian castles, olive groves, and forests of pine right up to the water's edge set the iconic Ionian islands of Greece apart. Having lived for centuries under Venetian rule, it is aptly reflected in their age-old buildings. Choosing the right operators, like www.ionianislandholidays.com can be a deciding factor in making or breaking your holiday to these stunning Greek islands. The sapphire-blue Ionian Sea welcomes visitors to the breathtaking destinations. There’s so much more to witness, from Kefalonia to Lefkada, Corfu, Zakynthos, Paxos, and Ithaki. They are all wonderful island hot spots that you will adore exploring. So, if you are still not considering moving to Greece, which is easier than you could imagine, you aren’t living life completely. Below are a few reasons that will prove the point! Why visit the Ionian islands? While on land you can explore monasteries, mountain villages, and waterfalls, kites, and windsurfers regard the waters of the Ionian Sea as a prime location to enjoy water sports. If you're planning a trip, keep in mind that with favorable winds, there is no better place for sailing than these beautiful islands of Greece. Some other compelling reasons to visit the Ionian islands are: 1. The celebrated beaches There are countless beaches, big and small, all over the islands of the Ionian Sea that have a charm of their own. The Shipwreck Beach of Zakynthos is a mega crowd puller from all over the world, and so are the pristine sands of Lefkada, Porto Katsiki, Voutoumi, and Engremni. Again, while Antipaxos and Vrika are a one-stop for boat owners, Schinos in Ithaki and Myrtos in Kefalonia are where the elite mingle with each other. Finally, there is the much-photographed Kaladi on Kythera and Paleokastritsa in Corfu which are lapped by blue waters against a backdrop of towering limestone cliffs. 2. Rich culture and history The ancient monasteries, churches, castles, and other buildings lay testimony to the myths and colorful traditions of the Ionian islands. Homer's kingdom of the Phaeacians, Corfu, is home to Old and new Venetian Forts, Achillion Palace, and Mon Repos, all top-class architectural wonders. Then there is the outstanding Asian Art Collection museum inside the Palace of St Michael and St George, the Municipal Gallery, and the Archaeology Museum. Lefkada, too, has some impressive medieval buildings, while the most sturdy attraction of Greece, by far, is the 14th-century castle of Santa Maura. 3. Best for water-based activities Many of the Ionian islands are known for consistent wind conditions which attract water sports lovers, especially beginners as conditions are best for them. This makes the islands a great place to take up a new water-based activity or even some laid-back paddling in the pristine waters When it comes to water sports, the Ionian islands enjoy a reputation of their own. While Lefkada draws ever-increasing hordes of windsurfers, year after year, sailors flock to the beaches of Myli and Vasiliki, ranked by many as the best in the Mediterranean. Adventure junkies also head to the nearby isles of Meganisi, Kastos, and Kalamos, north of Corfu, who then head around the island before sailing south towards Paxos Antipaxos, Ithaki, and Kioni are all other destinations that are loved by sailors in the Ionian Sea. For hikers, there are well-marked trails through the green mountains and the famous 220 km long Corfu trail. 4. Delicious cuisine The Greek cuisine in itself is a good reason to visit the country, especially the food served on the Ionian islands which has a strong Mediterranean diet base which is considered to be key to longevity. Inspired by the history of the Ionian Sea, the delicacies of the Greek islands will surprise you with their wealth of culinary delights. The Ionian islands stand out, not only for their sophisticated dishes like sofrito and Bianco but complemented for their locally produced ginger beer and kumquat liqueur. Diners in Zakynthos and Lefkada are usually regaled by strolling musicians while the locals serve their own delicacy, a nougat treat. Ask for it if you don't get it. The piece de resistance of Kefalonia is the rich meat pie and another one of Zakynthos is salsa, a meat stew accompanied by cheese. An integral element of Greek cuisine is olive oil, which is world-renowned, and used in most dishes. 5. Fantastic year-round weather There are few better holiday spots in the world, than the Ionian islands of Greece, which enjoy near-perfect weather all around the year. There are plenty of beaches if you wish to soak in the sun with your family at any of the famous ones in Greece. Typically, the temperature never drops below 70°F through September or in any case below 50°F during the winter months in any of the top islands you may wish to visit. Moreover, the frequent rainfall has made the vegetation lush green which characterizes the islands. Snow is rare, and summers are cool even on the hottest of days. This means, even in the off-season, conditions are near perfect for hiking, checking out the vibrant scenery, and not forgetting loads of shopping all without being troubled by the teeming hordes of visitors. 6. The hospitable locals Greek hospitality is legendary with its roots deeply embedded in every heart of the locals. The word for hospitality in Greek is philoxenia which literally means "friend to a stranger" and refers to the art of caring for anybody who visits a Greek home. The value of hospitality of the ancient Greeks still lives today in modern Greece. Over the centuries, the generosity of the locals has become a cultural norm and revolves around sharing life with others, like inviting a newcomer to their home for a homemade meal. Ancient Greek's care for strangers was an institution as they considered the act of welcoming someone as a missionary sent by the gods, Hence hospitality enjoys important value, even today, for every Greek citizen and they happily open their doors to foreigners and invite them for a treat in their homes. 7. They produce awesome drinks Greek wines are among the best in the world. Brands like Retsina, Agiorgitiko, and Vidanto are all legendary to wine lovers, with Assyrtiko from the island of Santorini being one of the most popular of all Greek wines. It is the diverse landscape that explains the presence of distinct characteristics in these wines, especially the red variety from the volcanic island of Santorini, the most wine-producing state in the country. Another good variety of white wine by the name of Robola is associated with the island of Kefalonia where some of the best brands can be found. Ouzo is another famous Greek drink that is worth a try. This is a heady licorice-flavored drink served with a glass of water before meals and best enjoyed with eating mezedes by the seaside on any of the islands. Do not forget to say Yamas, the Greek equivalent of "cheers" before you begin to drink. Read Also: Aeolian Village Beach Resort: The Ultimate Destination For Relaxing Holidays 4 Fun Destinations For All-Inclusive Holidays Acropolis Of Athens Tickets