Chios Greece Travel Guide: How To Explore Chios Beyond Santorini? 

Afternoon siesta is a cherished luxury where I come from. Thousand miles away, I did not expect to experience something similar in Chios, Greece. I was driving through Mesta, and the faint, sweet-spicy scent of mastic trees overtook me. 

I noticed one strange thing! Not a single shop was open, and even the ATMs were closed, despite it being a weekday. Curious, I asked my guide, and he said, 

“We loved our naptime in the afternoon. The shops are closed from 2 to 5 PM. We value our food and rest! There is nothing to rush!” This is the moment I felt at home in Chios. 

Chios in the eastern Aegean was hit by one of the largest wildfires of recent times in June and August 2025. These incidents were a major blow to the mastic trees and the entire region, with many trees destroyed by the wildfire. 

However, a few months down the line, Chios, Greece, is experiencing a positive rebound in its tourism landscape. Despite being a relatively new name compared to Santorini or the Amalfi Coast, it is gaining attention for its genuine charm. 

Despite an increase in interest, the tourism model here is focusing more on sustainability. Also, it is avoiding mass tourism to preserve its cultural heritage. 

In terms of accessibility, Chios is going to get a new airport very soon. Also, for hospitality, this eastern Aegean island depends heavily on family-run lodges.

Moreover, the island is capitalizing on its natural beauty and medieval villages to stay true to the official theme of “Experience Chios.” 

Hi, in today’s blog, I will talk about the Chios, Greece travel guide that takes you to local artisan workshops, cooking classes, adventurous places, and more.

Exploring The Local Artisan Workshops And Experiences 

Exploring The Local Artisan Workshops And Experiences

The mastic resin is the signature product of the region. The Pistacia lentiscus var. chia trees produce this resin. These are called the “tears” of Chios.

The aroma is faint, but it lingers just like the most beautiful melody of a flute. My mastic harvesting tour was already set, and the experience I had will stay with me forever. We talk about environmental protection and sustainability. The people of Chios practice it in their lives. 

Nevertheless, along with the mastic harvesting tours, attending the weaving workshops, pottery classes, and distillation plants were the best local experiences in Chios. I also enjoyed my time at the local tavernas. 

1. Mastic Harvesting Tours In Mastichochoria

Mastic Harvesting Tours In Mastichochoria

    Pyrgi, Mesta, or other villages in the south are ideal for farm tours. These have cooperatives and farms, where harvesting takes place during August and September. I was lucky to be in Chios in August. 

    The farmers here “wound” the trees so that they weep, and the tears are collected. Then, the tears are cleaned using a process called “Kefalari,” and watching the entire process is an immersive slow travel experience. 

    I talked to an old man in Mesta who was collecting the resin by hand. As I approached him, he said, “We treat the trees like family. If one dies, we plant another. We also pass on these trees to our future generations.” 

    Standing there, I could almost hear my grandfather, who used to say the same things about the trees he planted. 

    In Mesta and Pyrgi, I saw the soil getting hardened wherever the resin had fallen. Children love collecting those. 

    If you want to learn more about mastic harvesting in Chios, you can visit the Chios Mastiha Growers Association (CMGA). It now has around 4500 members from the 20 primary cooperatives spread across 24 villages. 

    2. Weaving Workshops In Pyrgi

      The houses in Pyrgi look wonderful, with distinct black geometric decorations. On some walls, I saw diamond shapes; others had stripes, and some even featured crisscross patterns.

      There is also a personalized touch in these geometrical shapes. I was standing near a house appreciating the diamond-shaped designs on the walls. An old lady peeped, and I asked her whether she had done the design or not!

      She started giggling like a little girl and said, “I have hidden the name of my husband in these diamond designs. It was a lot of fun when I asked him to spot his name for the first time.” 

      Once again, I felt that emotions are universal and the art of finding joy in little things. 

      The village also has a tradition of weaving. Explore the traditional looms and try your hand at the craft. 

      3. Pottery Classes In Armolia

      Pottery Classes In Armolia

        Armolia is the epicenter of pottery traditions in Chios, Greece. It is like a kingdom of brightly colored ceramics. Kefalakia, a one-necked Chian ceramic jug, is a must-buy. 

        I tried my skills at a hands-on pottery class, and I must say that I was not so proud of what I made! 

        4. Soap-Making And Herbal Distillation

        Soap Making And Herbal Distillation

          Chios has the best flowers and herbs. So, you will find many small family-run businesses here, including soap-making and herbal distillation. They also make local olive oil, mastic oil, and distilled water. 

          These small businesses have kept alive the heritage of natural wellness in Chios. 

          5. Getting Lost In The Alleys Of Mesta At Night

          It may sound a little scary, but it was fun for me. Mesta is like a labyrinth, and exploring this fortified village was like a treasure hunt. Indeed, it was planned this way to confuse the pirates who wanted to rob the town. 

          After my dinner at the guesthouse, I wanted to take a quick stroll around, and after half an hour, I was clueless about the road to take. 

          The alleys twisted and turned until I stood before a stone archway and a dead-end courtyard filled with vines. I could listen to my footsteps on the cobblestone road, and after a few minutes, I sat on a rock. 

          Suddenly, something magical appeared before the eyes. The stars over the Aegean were unreal, and the absence of light pollution made it look like I could reach them by stretching my arm. 

          I cannot tell you how long I waited there, and suddenly a call from my guesthouse broke my trance. The receptionist asked me to wait for a while and sent a guide from the guesthouse to guide me back. 

          6. Eating And Drinking At A Local Taverna

          Most tavernas I visited during my stay on Chios did not have a printed menu. That’s actually good, considering the menu is decided based on the fresh produce available on that day. 

          My guide used to ask “Ti echete simera?” or “What do you have today?” The waiter used to read from the list of items that were offered for the day. 

          Wellness And Retreat Travel In Chios, Greece 

          Chios opened its first luxury wellness retreat, Pearl Island Chios Hotel & Spa, last year. Nevertheless, Chios has been celebrating its unique wellness tradition for years now. 

          1. Mastiha And The Herbs Of Chios

          Furthermore, Chios has been harvesting mastiha for more than 2500 years, and this natural product has medicinal properties. In fact, this knowledge of cultivating mastiha has been identified as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. 

          Mastiha gum has anti-inflammatory properties, it helps heal wounds, and it improves oral health and the digestive system. 

          However, mastiha is not the only herbal ingredient grown here. The region also has chamomile, sage, thyme, and oregano. Furthermore, Souma, a traditional fig-based spirit is a crucial element in the wellness tradition of mastic oil and mastiha, the signature of Chios. 

          2. Holistic Healing In Chios 

          The holistic healing facilities in Chios include meditation sessions near Mavra Volia beach. Furthermore, you can look for yoga retreats in secluded coastal villas and thermal spa visits in nearby Volissos. 

          Away from the crowd, the thermal spa visit near Amani was the ultimate rejuvenation for me after a busy day. 

          Cooking Classes And Culinary Tour In Chios, Greece

          I visited a cafe called Citrus Memories inside an old estate near Chios town. They served a citrus drink made with local fruits grown in Kampos. 

          The juice was not very sweet. In fact, the hint of bitterness in the drink was the kick. The garden of the old estate had orange trees and stone walls around. So, it was like being in a different era. 

          The citrus smell of the oranges offered the most refreshing olfactory experience, while the sound of cicadas was somehow felt healing. This was one of the best experiences of food and beverage in Chios, Greece. 

          1. Mastic Liqueur Tastings

            I tasted mastic liquor at a local taverna in Mesta. My guide told me that having the mastic liquor after food helps with faster digestion. 

            The one I tasted had just the right hint of anise. However, it did not overpower the drink’s citrusy finish. The texture of the drink was clean, and it cleansed my palate. 

            2. Cheese-Making Workshops

              I took a guided tour of the Sinanis’ family’s traditional cheese workshop. You will notice a wonderful fusion of modern and traditional techniques in cheese-making. Furthermore, you will get to taste their cheese along with other local produce. 

              3. Traditional Bread Baking In Wood-Fired Ovens

                Making bread in wood-fired ovens is one of the most cherished culinary traditions of Chios. I was fortunate enough to visit the Klossas bakery in the village of Volissos. 

                Started in 1955, it is still run by the same family. The setup still has a traditional setup without windows, and they bake a limited variety of bread. 

                4. Farm-To-Table Cooking Classes With Local Chefs

                  Many local chefs organize a farm-to-table cooking class using locally produced olive oil, citrus fruits, and seafood. I learned to make ipovrihio, a special sweet made using mastic. It is a flavored sugary paste served in cold water. 

                  5. Festivals Celebrating The Food Of Chios 

                  I was lucky enough to be in Chios in the month of August. I could attend many festivals celebrating the local food. 

                  FestivalsSignificanceTiming
                  Souma Festival• Celebrates the Souma spirit made from figs

                  • Celebrated with local delicacies and traditional dance 
                  • First two weeks of August
                  Mountain and Livestock Festival• A three-day festival in Pityos

                  • Vendors selling local produce directly to the public
                  • July or early August
                  Amateur Fishermen’s Festival• Celebrated in Mesta

                  • Kakavia, or fish soup, is served as part of the marine tradition
                  • August
                  Panagia Festival and Saint Markella Festival• Food and drink are shared at the village square • August and July, respectively

                  Moreover, festivals celebrating local saints, such as the Feast of Agios Ioannis the Theologian, are ideal for enjoying local food and beverages. Goat or hake delicacies are served at the end of the religious ceremonies. 

                  Adventure Activities Beyond Hiking

                  Adventure Activities Beyond Hiking

                  The diverse geography of Chios makes it an ideal place for nature walks and hiking. However, it offers many unique adventures. For example, swimming in the tiny coves near Vroulidia and Agia Dynami was the best experience for me. 

                  I started swimming at Agia Dynami early in the morning. The water was so clear that it felt like glass. I could see schools of tiny fish flickering like silver confetti. 

                  Also, after the swim, I went to the taverna up the hill. The owner there served grilled fresh sardines. The dog under the table, taking a nap, made the picture perfect. 

                  Nevertheless, sea kayaking, rock climbing, cave exploration, and mountain biking are some adventure activities in Chios, Greece.

                  1. Sea Kayaking Along Volcanic Beaches

                    The southern coast around Emporios and Mavra Volia of the Black Pebble Beach is dramatic. The clear water here creates the perfect contrast with the dramatic volcanic beach. 

                    I loved kayaking here and explored the surreal geological formations that we cannot reach on foot. 

                    2. Rock Climbing In Kambia

                      Climbing the limestone cliffs in Kambia offers serious adventure. The crowd here is smaller. Also, you will enjoy the most amazing views of the Aegean from the cliff top. 

                      3. Cave Exploration In Olympoi

                        Olympoi Cave is an active sinkhole. It has a unique geological formation surrounded by stalagmites and stalactites. It is a cooler retreat from the summer Sun, and every formation here tells the stories of the rich geological past of Chios, Greece. 

                        4. Mountain Biking In The North

                          The Amani Forest and the northern mountain ranges have many trails challenging the skills of a mountain biker. As the biker winds through the pine forests, they get to see the panoramic views of the surroundings. 

                          Hidden Historical Sites In Chios, Greece

                          If you are a history buff, you can explore the following locations in Chios, Greece. 

                          • Daskalopetra (Homer’s Stone) 

                          Daskalopetra, or the stone formation at the center of this archaeological site near Vrontados, is said to be the birthplace of Homer. The ancient poet of the Iliad and the Odyssey. 

                          Steeped in mythology, the place looks over the sea. It offers moments of quietude and looks the most beautiful during the sunrise hours. 

                          • Anavatos Ghost Village 

                          Anavatos Ghost Village

                          The location of the Anavatos Ghost Village on a sheer granite cliff itself looks surreal. Also known as the “Mistress of the Wind,: Anavatos has been lying vacant since the 1822 Chios Massacre. 

                          I was walking through its alleys just before the sunset hours, and I felt history coming alive and the island celebrating its resilience at the same time. 

                          • Phanai Archaeological Site 

                          The Phanai Archaeological Site is at the southern tip of the island. It has the ruins of an ancient temple dedicated to the God Apollo. 

                          This site does not receive many visitors. So, exploring the remnants of the Hellenic civilization was quite thrilling. The beautiful coastal views add to its appeal. 

                          • Byzantine Churches 

                          Everyone talks about the UNESCO-listed Nea Moni Monastery. However, in search of something lesser known but equally meaningful, I reached Byzantine churches in the mountain villages of the north.

                          These offer stunning iconography and architectural details, often overseen by a single, welcoming caretaker ready to share local lore.

                          Interactive Cultural Places In Chios, Greece

                          If you are traveling with your family, you can explore the following interactive cultural places. These are ideal for multigenerational tourists. 

                          1. Chios Mastic Museum

                          • Hours Open: 1st March to 15th October (10 AM to 6 PM) and 16th October to 28th February (10 AM to 5 PM)
                          • Entry Fee: Standard Ticket – €3, Concession Ticket: €1.5, Free on Specific Days Such as 18th May, 5th June, and the Last Weekend of September

                          The Chios Mastic Museum celebrates the tradition of mastic production, an intangible UNESCO heritage. Located in the Pyrgi Village, the museum is inside an eco-friendly building. 

                          This museum focuses on the uniqueness of mastic as a versatile product. Further, it shows how cooperatives have played an important role in the production of mastic products in the recent past. 

                          2. Chios Castle

                          • Hours Open: 8 AM to 3:30 PM (Tuesday Closed)
                          • Entry: Free

                          Located in the north of the town center, Chios Castle used to be the fortified core of the town, starting from the Genoese period. Spanning over an area of 180,000 m2, the castle is still inhabited. 

                          3. Giustiniani Palace

                            Inside the Chios Castle, the Giustiniani Palace was the headquarters of the Genoese administration. As a museum, it holds archaeological and art exhibitions. 

                            4. Chios Archaeological Museum

                            • Hours Open: 8 AM to 7 PM (Closed on Mondays in Winter) (Temporarily Under Renovation)
                            • Entry Fee: 10€

                            The Archaeological Museum of Chios has art exhibits from the Neolithic period to the Roman era. Furthermore, sculptures from the Prehistoric settlements, coins, inscriptions, mosaics, and more are exhibited in the museum. 

                            5. Chios Maritime Museum

                            • Hours Open: 9 AM to 2 PM (Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday)
                            • Standard Fee: €3.00
                            • Concession Fee: €2.00

                            Nestled in a neoclassical building, Chios Maritime Museum celebrates the rich maritime history of the island. It has nautical artifacts and ship models. 

                            Beaches In Chios, Greece 

                            Beaches In Chios Greece

                            Agia Dynami will always be my favorite with its calmness and the absence of any loud beach amenities. 

                            However, Mavra Volia is a more touristy one, with its dramatic black pebbles and sapphire water. 

                            Elinda Beach is another beach on the west of the island. It has a hidden cover, and it is famous for amazing sunset views of the Aegean. 

                            A 5-Day Itinerary In Chios, Greece

                            A 5 Day Itinerary In Chios Greece

                            They say that 3-4 days are enough in Chios. However, for me, even the five days I spent here were not enough. 

                            This is how I spent the days.

                            DaysActivities
                            Day 1• Mastic Harvesting Tour
                            • Pottery Class in Armolia
                            • Sea Kayaking near Mavra Volia
                            • Attending the Souma Festival
                            • Dinner at a Taverna
                            Day 2• Early Morning Swim in Agia Dynami
                            • Exploring Pyrgi and its Weaving Scene
                            • Visiting the Mastic Museum
                            • Visiting the Phanai Archaeological Site
                            • Attending a Bread Baking Class
                            Day 3• A Trip to Daskalopetra and the Byzantine Churches
                            • Visiting the Chios Castle
                            • Exploring the Anavatos Ghost Village before Sunset Hours
                            • Feasting at the Amateur Fishermen’s Festival 
                            • An After-Dinner Stroll and Getting Lost in the Alleys of Chios
                            Day 4• Visiting the Chios Archaeological Museum
                            • Mountain Biking near Kambia
                            • Attending a Soap Making ClassTaking a tour of the Sinanis’ Family’s Traditional Cheese Workshop
                            • Back to Chios in the Evening
                            • Thermal Spa Visit near Amani
                            Day 5• Attending A Farm-to-Table Cooking Class
                            • Collecting Olive Oil and Mastic Products
                            • Off to the Airport

                            Things To Remember For A Trip To Chios, Greece

                            Things To Remember For A Trip To Chios Greece

                            Here are some essential things you need to keep in mind for a trip to Chios, Greece. 

                            Family Travel Tips• Visit shallow beaches like Agia Fotini
                            • Choose kid-friendly tavernas with playgrounds.
                            • Visit interactive museums and farms 
                            Eco-Tourism & Sustainability Tips• Stay in an eco-lodge
                            • Visiting the Amani Forest and its protected eco trails
                            Eco-Lodges and Sustainable Travel• Mastic Eco Retreat
                            • Volissos Earth Homes
                            • Amani Forest Cabins
                            Photography Spots & Sunrise/Sunset Locations• Sunrise at Daskalopetra
                            • Sunset over Volissos Castle
                            • Colorful alleys of Pyrgi
                            • Black pebble beach of Mavra Volia
                            • Panoramic views from Anavatos

                            How To Reach Chios, Greece? 

                            You have to reach Chios by air or sea. Here are the details. Also, many people include Chios as an extension of the coastal tour of Turkey, which is just a 30-45 minute ferry ride away. 

                            Nevertheless, here are the details.

                            By AirRoute: Direct flights from Athens International Airport (ATH).
                            Airlines: Aegean Airlines/Olympic Air and SKY Express.
                            Duration: The flight takes only 50 minutes.
                            By FerryRoute: Piraeus Port (Athens) to Chios Town Port (or sometimes Mesta Port)
                            Operator: Primarily Blue Star Ferries.
                            Duration: 7.5 – 10.5 Hours.
                            From Turkey Route: Çeşme, Turkey to Chios Town Port.
                            Duration: An incredibly short 30–45 minutes by high-speed ferry.

                            Taking a car rental is the only way to explore Chios. However, if you drive, make sure that you can manage driving on the cobblestone streets. 

                            What Is The Best Time To Visit Chios, Greece?

                            What Is The Best Time To Visit Chios Greece

                            April to October is the best time to visit Chios, Greece. Furthermore, April to June is the ideal time for adventures, and July and August are the ideal time for mastic harvesting tours, hitting the beaches, and taking part in the festivals. 

                            September onward, the crowd becomes less, and you can enjoy the beauty of the quiet autumn here till October. November onward, the island does not have many tourists, and many facilities also shut down during these months. 

                            Budget For The Chios Trip

                            Budget For The Chios Trip

                            My trip to Chios cost me around $2000. However, that does not mean that Chios is a very expensive place. Here is a quick breakdown of the expenses. 

                            ExpensesCost
                            Flights$1200
                            Accommodation for 4 Nights$180
                            Food and Drink$150
                            Local Transport$75
                            Activities$150
                            Total $1755

                            So, get ready to experience offbeat Greece and the most authentic Chios. Kaló taksídi!

                            Chios Greece Travel Guide: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

                            Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about Chios, Greece.

                            1. Is Chios A Nice Island?

                            Less than an hour away from Turkey’s coast, Chios is the fifth-largest island of Greece. It is a nice island with a pristine vibe and a rich heritage around mastic production, natural healing, pottery, and weaving. 

                            Furthermore, its historical ruins have many stories to share about the vivid past of the island. 

                            2. Does It Snow In Chios?

                            No, it does not snow in Chios because the air is typically around 62% humid. However, temperatures drop significantly in the months of January and February, and the temperature is around 6 to 12 degrees Celsius. 

                            3. What Is Chios Food?

                            Chios food is an extension of what is available as local produce. So, you will find the use of citrus fruits such as mandarin, local cheese such as mastelo, fish, and mastic resin. 

                            Furthermore, despite its distinct culinary heritage, food here shows an influence of the nearby Asia Minor. 

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                            Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!

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Beach of Durres: The Most-Visited Beach In Albania ‣ Nearest Airport: Tirana Airport The beach of Durres, the most-visited beach in Albania, is also one of the best beaches in Europe.  Durrës, as a city, has a rich historical background, with the stories going back to 627 BC. Additionally, the Roman amphitheater was our biggest draw.  Additionally, the beach stands out due to its proximity to the Adriatic Sea, a prominent feature in the cultural, historical, and economic landscapes of Europe.  Recently, the Adriatic Sea was in the news after a Riesenhai, or basking shark, was seen off the Croatian Peninsula. 8. Fteri Beach, Kefalonia: Romance In A Secluded Beach With Turquoise Waters ‣ Nearest Airport: Kefalonia International Airport Anna Pollatou With rugged hinterlands and candy-colored houses, Fteri Beach in Kefalonia, Greece, is the prettiest beach I have been to in Europe.  One of the best summer destinations in Europe, this beach on a secluded cove has beautiful white cliffs and the bluest water.  Don’t miss snorkeling in the water for the ultimate adventure.  9. Praia da Comporta: The Secret Sweet Spot In Portugal View this post on Instagram A post shared by Luis Mendes (@luismendeslm) ‣ Nearest Airport: Lisboa (LIS) Airport One of the best summer destinations in Europe, Praia da Comporta is a hidden gem in Portugal.  Summer months are busy at Praia da Comporta. However, the 19-km stretch of the shoreline ensures you get enough space for all the beach fun.  We had the most elaborate lunch at the Comporta Café, and we got into the water after hours of swimming.  However, the biggest attraction was the horseback ride during the Sunset. The surroundings looked magical.  10. Mala Beach: Cliffs, Sands, And Clear Water View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ekaterina Erokhin (@katiaerokhin) ‣ Nearest Airport: Nice Côte d'Azur Airport I was almost done penning this blog, and then suddenly it struck me. I have missed Mala Beach, another wonder in the French Riviera.  With pebbles and sand on the shores, this secluded beach is ideal for some intimate moments with your partner.  Further, the views of the majestic Mediterranean Sea and cliffs leave you awestruck.  11. Vitali Beach: Best For The Quiet Romance ‣ Nearest Airport: Athens International Airport Vitali Beach in Andros, Greece, is one of the best summer destinations in Europe if you are planning a coastal getaway.  It is one of the quiet ones, too!  The shores are full of pebbles. So, it is quite a walk before you reach the blue waters. However, the nearby caves and the best Pina Colada available make every effort worthwhile.  12. Cala de Deiá, Mallorca: Falling In Love With The Rugged Charm ‣ Nearest Airport: Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI) Cala de Deià, the rugged and bewitching inlet near Deiá, Spain, has a small beach with crystal clear water. This is a place for couples who love everything quaint and a close-to-nature experience.  After a fun swim in the crystal clear water, you can have your meal at the Can Lluc cafe and enjoy fishing while sitting on the rocky platform above the water.  You can also visit the beautiful hamlet of Lluc Alcari, just 15 km away from Cala de Deiá. Related Posts.. Here is a List of Best River Cruises in Europe! 10 Things You Must Cover On Your Europe Trip These Best Places To Travel In Europe Are Amazing In Winter

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                            Exploring The Allure Of Holiday Getaways In Italy

                            BY  Barsha Aug 11, 2023

                            When it comes to planning a holiday getaway, few destinations rival the charm and allure of Italy. With its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, mouthwatering cuisine, and romantic ambiance, Italy has captured the hearts of travelers worldwide. This article delves into why spending your holidays in Italy is an unforgettable experience, particularly when you rely on specialized agencies such as Italia Sweet Italia, that will take you to the most beautiful places and sample all the culinary delights. Italy has long captured the hearts of globetrotters, offering a perfect blend of history, art, and stunning landscapes. Among its many charming regions, Abruzzo and Puglia emerge as hidden gems, each with its distinct allure. Abruzzo: Where Nature and History Converge Exploring Abruzzo's Majestic Mountains Nestled in the Apennine Mountains, Abruzzo boasts breathtaking natural beauty. From the Gran Sasso peaks to the rugged beauty of the Majella National Park, this region offers a haven for hikers, nature enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. Tracing History through Medieval Villages Abruzzo's history comes to life in its medieval villages. Villages like Santo Stefano di Sessanio and Scanno transport visitors back in time with their cobblestone streets and ancient architecture. Exploring these villages offers a glimpse into the region's rich past. Savoring Abruzzo's Gastronomic Treasures No visit to Abruzzo is complete without indulging in its culinary treasures. Delight your taste buds with dishes like "arrosticini" - succulent skewers of lamb - and "maccheroni alla chitarra," a pasta specialty unique to the region. Puglia: A Coastal Gem Basking in Puglia's Stunning Beaches Puglia, on the other hand, lures travelers with its stunning coastline. Crystal-clear waters and golden sands await at beaches like Baia dei Turchi and Porto Selvaggio. Relaxing by the sea and soaking in the Mediterranean sun is a must-do here. Immersing in the Trulli Mystique Puglia's iconic Trulli houses in Alberobello are a sight to behold. These cone-shaped dwellings are not only charming but also carry historical significance. Exploring the narrow streets and staying in a Trullo provides a unique and immersive experience. Indulging in Puglia's Authentic Cuisine Puglia's cuisine is a celebration of fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. From the famous "orecchiette" pasta to the exquisite olive oil, the flavors of Puglia are deeply rooted in its agricultural heritage. Comparing Abruzzo and Puglia As you consider these two regions for your Italian getaway, let's compare their distinct features: Landscape Diversity: Mountains vs. Coastline Abruzzo captivates with its mountainous terrain, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers. In contrast, Puglia's allure lies in its expansive coastline, inviting travelers to relax by the sea. Architectural Marvels: Medieval Villages vs. Trulli Houses Abruzzo's medieval villages showcase architectural heritage, while Puglia's Trulli houses offer a unique glimpse into the past, making both regions historically intriguing. Culinary Delights: Gastronomic Contrasts Abruzzo's hearty dishes reflect its mountainous landscape, while Puglia's cuisine highlights its coastal bounty. Both promise an unforgettable culinary journey. Choosing Your Ideal Italian Getaway When deciding between Abruzzo and Puglia, consider your interests. Are you drawn to history, mountain vistas, and medieval charm? Abruzzo might be your match. If sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and unique architecture captivate you, Puglia could be your dream destination. Conclusion Abruzzo and Puglia await your exploration in the heart of Italy's enchanting landscapes. Whether you seek the rugged beauty of mountains or the soothing embrace of the Mediterranean coastline, these regions promise a holiday of captivating experiences, rich history, and unforgettable flavors. Read Also: Common Pitfalls Of Destination Wedding In Italy And How To Avoid Them How Much Time To Spend In Italy Best Places To Visit In Italy

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                            Make France Your Home While Generating And Retaining Jobs

                            BY  Abdul Aziz Mar 14, 2023

                            If you are a high net-worth person searching for the best country to live, study, and invest in the European Union, the solution is to acquire the France Golden Visa. In 2016, France witnessed a venture capital investment of 2.6 billion USD. By offering such visas, France intends to entice the new generation into world-leading companies, generate jobs, and promote innovation in the French economy. One of the reputed organizations that offer France Golden Visa services is Pearl Lemon Visa. It assures you of a hassle-free and speedy application process. 3 Types Of Golden Visas In France Based on its economic activities, France renders three varieties of Golden Visas: Economic Residence Permitting:  This had a minimum investment of 10 million euros. In 2016, these visas were closed and replaced by Talent Passports. Economic Residence Permitting is a program implemented by the French government to allow non-European Union citizens who invest in or start a business in France to obtain a long-term residence permit. This program is designed to encourage foreign investment and stimulate economic growth in France. To be eligible for an Economic Residence Permit, an individual must invest in a French business, create a business in France, or acquire an existing business. The investment must meet certain criteria, such as creating jobs, contributing to the French economy, and being a viable business plan. Read Also: What You Need To Know Before Going On A Trip To Las Vegas Advantages Of Having This Visa Economic residence permits allow investors and entrepreneurs to start or expand their businesses in the host country. This can create new job opportunities and contribute to the economic growth of the country. Economic residence permits provide foreign investors and entrepreneurs with access to a large market, which can help them grow their businesses more quickly than they would be able to in their home countries. Economic residence permits often allow for a long-term stay in the host country, which provides investors and entrepreneurs with stability and allows them to fully immerse themselves in the local business environment. Even the applicant’s families can get the benefits of these visas. The French Tech Visa This is for entrepreneurs and startups. The French Tech Visa is a program designed by the French government to attract talented foreign entrepreneurs, investors, and startup employees to France. It is a fast-track program that aims to facilitate the arrival and residence of these individuals in France to help them build their businesses and develop their skills. In 2017, the nation launched this visa type. The main intention was to entice investors, employees, entrepreneurs, and another technical talent. It facilitated the advent and integration of such individuals. When Emmanuel Macron, the President of France, declared the commencement of this visa, he revealed that the goal of this visa was to make France the center of entrepreneurship and innovation. He commented that France must be a leader in these domains, specifically regarding issues such as Artificial Intelligence, the Internet of Things, and the convergence of clean technology, digital technology, and all Green technologies. Advantages Of Having This Visa The applicant has to apply to the Ministry of Finance (the French Tech team). Then, this team provides a letter of approval indicating eligibility for a priority procedure. The applicant has to fulfill the following conditions while applying for the visa. You should have financial resources that are the minimum as the French annual minimum wage of 18,000 euros on January 1, 2018. You need to have an economically innovative startup project that could be implemented in France. Your application had to be approved by a French public organization named ‘Direccte.’ The French Tech Visa application process is streamlined and simplified, making it easier for foreign tech talent to apply for and obtain a visa to live and work in France. Once you have submitted your French Tech Visa application, it will be processed within four weeks, which is much faster than other types of visas. The Talent Passport Scheme This has a minimum investment of 0.3 million euros. The Talent Passport Scheme is a program initiated by the French government to attract highly skilled workers from non-European countries to work and live in France. The scheme aims to address skills shortages in certain sectors by facilitating the entry and residence of these workers in France. The Talent Passport Scheme is open to applicants with skills in one of 10 targeted sectors, including engineering, science, technology, and culture. Applicants must also have a job offer or work contract from a French company, and their annual salary must meet a certain threshold. Advantages Of Having This Scheme This scheme was pertinent to 10 categories, including investors of projects, leaders of innovations, company creators, recent graduates, highly skilled workers, and employees of novel, innovative organizations. When these schemes were being designed, the investment limit was reduced from 10 million Euros to 0.3 million Euros. Another change was that the limit of generating or maintaining a minimum of 50 jobs was substituted by a general requirement of creating, retaining, and committing to retain jobs during the four years after you invest in France. The investor and family members are provided a 4-year residency card. This scheme is different from another multi-annual residence, which is permitted in that it permits nationals of third-country countries with a long-stay visa to come to France. After their advent in France, they can request the Talent Passport residence permit. After this permit process, the third-country citizen can work in the investment project’s framework that justifies the grant of the Talent Passport. Now, the person can perform some activity in the business and must generate and retain jobs while the Talent Passport is valid. Wrapping Up All of these visas are convenient for entrepreneurs. Often the government terms and conditions keep changing. Before applying for the visa, ensure the present terms and conditions of the visa process. Are you thinking of applying for visas to France? Then comment back to us and let us know about your experiences. Read Also : The Business Trip Tips And Diet 7 Key points Remember while Planning Your Honeymoon Trip Planning A Hunting Trip To Africa – Here’s what you should Know