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Seven Reasons To Visit The Stunning Greek Ionian Islands

Seven Reasons To Visit The Stunning Greek Ionian Islands

Jul 25, 2023

Last Updated on: Nov 16, 2024

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.

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Family Fun In The Gulf Of Mexico: Beaches, Boating, And More

BY Shahnawaz Oct 31, 2023

Statistics show that American travelers are likely to make 1.94 billion domestic leisure trips by the end of this year. One area that is quite popular is the Gulf of Mexico. Nestled along the southwestern corner of the United States lies an idyllic stretch of coastline. It draws families searching for memorable sun-filled adventures and lifetime memories. The Gulf of Mexico, with its shimmering turquoise waters and warm sandy shores, serves as an oasis for beachgoers, nature explorers, beachcombers, and water enthusiasts alike. From Port Aransas beaches to Gulf Shores attractions and Biloxi's hidden gems, here is your gateway to family fun in the Gulf. Join us as we discover everything this coastal paradise has to offer. We have with us activities like building sandcastles to embarking on exhilarating boating adventures. Port Aransas: A Beach Lover's Haven Port Aransas, situated on Mustang Island, is known for its charming coastal town feel and 18-mile pristine shoreline. It is often called the Texas Treasure. It is renowned as an inviting and family-friendly vacation spot along the Gulf of Mexico shores. Port Aransas makes for an excellent coastal retreat getaway. As soon as you step onto Port Aransas' powder-white sands, you'll understand why this town is such a gem. Beach lovers will find plenty of space here for building sandcastles, flying kites, and playing beach volleyball, not forgetting the calm waves that make swimming enjoyable. And if you’re lucky enough, you might even spot dolphins swimming nearby. If you're planning a visit to Port Aransas, Texas' charming coastal town, your trip must be carefully orchestrated. Start with finding accommodation that perfectly meets your preferences. Due to its immense popularity during peak vacation seasons, Port Aransas can quickly become overrun. As such, beginning an early search for the best Port Aransas vacation rentals is crucial to ensuring a relaxing and stress-free stay. By booking in advance, you ensure a comfortable and enjoyable place. It also makes sure that every aspect of the Port Aransas experience can be maximized during your stay there. Boating Adventures: The Heart of the Gulf One of the quintessential Gulf of Mexico experiences is taking to the water for a boating adventure. The Gulf's calm and clear waters make it a prime location for all types of waterborne activities. No matter if it is sailing, jet skiing, kayaking, or taking part in any aquatic recreational activities, the Gulf offers limitless aquatic adventure. Are you seeking an unforgettable maritime adventure? For an experience like no other, take the plunge and discover the Gulf's plentiful islands, bays, and inlets. A visit to the Florida Keys gives snorkelers and scuba divers the chance to dive or snorkel across its vibrant coral reefs, teeming with aquatic life. You can even swim alongside turtles and tropical fish in the clear, warm waters. Families interested in history will find visiting the USS Lexington museum in Corpus Christi an unforgettable experience. This World War II aircraft carrier provides visitors with the chance to explore its vessel. They can learn its story, and try their hand at flying an aircraft using the flight simulator. Biloxi, Mississippi: A Hidden Gem Biloxi, Mississippi, stands out as an often-overlooked gem in the Gulf of Mexico. It boasts expansive white-sand beaches, lively casinos, and an impressive history. Biloxi makes an attractive option for families searching for an all-encompassing vacation experience. Biloxi's beaches are an outstanding feature, providing the ideal setting for relaxation, beach games, and water activities. But the city's lively atmosphere extends beyond the shoreline, with world-class casinos offering entertainment, dining, and gaming options for adults. If you're traveling with older kids or a multigenerational group, Biloxi is an excellent choice for its diverse entertainment offerings. For a touch of history and culture, the Ohr-O'Keefe Museum of Art is a unique attraction, housing contemporary and historical artwork and architecture. The Biloxi Lighthouse, another historical landmark, provides an opportunity to learn about the area's maritime history and enjoy panoramic views of the Gulf. The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is an essential stop for families in Gulf Shores, Alabama, looking for a fun-filled combination of education and entertainment. This world-class zoo provides visitors with an unforgettable experience by bringing animals from around the globe closer to them so that they can observe them up close. From playful lemurs to majestic lions and curious kangaroos, the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo's immersive exhibits give visitors a greater understanding of animal kingdom marvels. Not only can you experience these incredible creatures in their meticulously curated habitats, but you can also engage in unforgettable encounters, such as feeding a giraffe or encountering a sloth. The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo makes for an educational adventure perfect for family outings along the Gulf of Mexico coast and offers educational fun for people of all ages. Conclusion The Gulf of Mexico offers family-friendly destinations that promise sun, sand, and adventure for everyone in your group. From Port Aransas in Texas to Gulf Shores, Alabama's captivating beaches, to boating adventures on its open waters, here you can find something for every family member to enjoy. Wherever your journey leads you, the Gulf will provide an experience you won't soon forget. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and embark on an unforgettable family journey to the Gulf's sunny shores. Read Also: Spa Relaxation On A Charter Yacht In Dubai How To Save Money On A Trip To Abu Dhabi Top 12 National Parks In Florida That You Must Visit In 2023

Vrbo.com – Best Review By Users In 2022

BY Ankita Sep 8, 2022

What is the one thing that we worry about before making plans to go on a vacation? That is correct: it is about the stay and the travel. While it is true that the number of travelers has reduced drastically in the last two years with the rising cases of coronavirus and the following lockdown, reports say that 2022 has seen new growth in the rate of travelers. If you are someone who doesn't want to take a lot of stress about where to stay during the vacation, I recommend that you give a thought about VRBO. If you are someone who is looking for user reviews and an overview of how VRBO works, you have come to the best place. It is still the best place for you if you want to know what does VRBO stand for. Keep on reading this article till the end to learn more about the platform… VRBO: Traveling Made Easy! Heard the name Vacation Rental by Owner? Oh wait, let me make that one easy for you. Take 2! Heard the name VRBO? Yes, that is correct! Known for excellent rental options, it is one of the most used platforms if you are planning a vacation with your friend and family. The way it works is very similar to Airbnb, and that is the reason why many people might confuse the two and how they work. There are many people who do not like to go through the entire process of booking a hotel for their vacation. And to an extent, there are many who do not like the feeling of staying in a hotel, even if they are so much more convenient. Why? Well, for me, it is because they are exactly the same. It does not matter how good the hotel is, but something is always missing. That is the reason why people have started to think about choosing rentals. For that homely experience, you know? Similar to Airbnb, VRBO is one of the most used vacation rentals. As the name suggests, VRBO is something that specializes in vacation rentals that people directly own. There are a different variety of rentals that you can choose from, beginning with houses to condos and villas. The People Of VRBO: Who Is VRBO For? In case you were thinking about who can use VRBO, let me tell you that VRBO is, in its truest sense, for the people by the people. It is a service that is provided by the owners of the apartment or property for people who are looking for a place to stay while they are on vacation. When you go to the official site of VRBO, you will figure out that there are two options of VRBO login for you to sign in: VRBO Traveler Login VRBO Owner Login This means that you can use this platform not only to book a rented apartment while you are on vacation but also to rent your own property for others to book while they are planning the same. In other words, it is a great place for you to not only book your property while you are planning a holiday with your family or friends but also to earn money for the platform by being able to rent it to people who need it. Properties You Can Rent On VRBO There are a number and varieties of properties that you can rent on VRBO. The main reason for that to happen is because there is a huge number of people who are from varied backgrounds. This is the reason why you will also get a lot of variety from the properties to choose from. Some of them are as follows: Houses Apartments Treehouses Condos Palaces Villas So there are a lot of options for you to choose from depending on what you want your vacation to be like. Choosing VRBO: What Is VRBO Like, And Is It Worth It? If there is something that you should want to know about it, then it is about the services that it provides. After all, while booking a place to stay, you must want to know about the customer service or the quality of the stay that you should look forward to. While it is true that VRBO was one of the best when it came to rental services, the quality of the customer services that the platform provides now has drastically changed. The platform was founded in 1995. And trust me when I say this, the quality was great at that time. However, in the recent past, there have been a lot of complaints regarding the services that the platform provides. There are a number of cases where the customers could not find quality customer support when they faced an issue with the property. Because of all these reviews, people have started considering choosing Airbnb over VRBO. The only reason, however, that clients still choose VRBO is that you can choose the area of stay based on your preferred location. This means that you can search for the type of property that you want to select based on the location. For example, it can be a mountain viewing property, beachside property, or a ski rental property. VRBO Reviews: What users have to say about the platform! I know it can be a bit tricky to trust the words of a stranger. That is the reason why I have gathered some of the most genuine reviews by the users who have experienced the services that VRBO provides. Here are the reviews that you were looking for: 1. Source: TrustPilot.com 2. Source: consumeraffairs.com 3. Source: consumeraffairs.com 4. Source: sitejabber.com Alternatives Of VRBO: Want To Try Something Else? In case you are not that happy with VRBO, let me tell you that there are many other websites and platforms that deliver the same or similar services. In case you want to have other alternatives at hand, here are some of the platforms that you can try: Booking.com Kayak Priceline Expedia Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Now that you have reached almost the end of this article, I hope most of your confusions are already clear by now. Still, there might be some left. Here are some of the questions that raiders frequently ask. Why don’t you check them out? 1. Is VRBO Trustworthy? While there might be several reasons for you to choose VRBO, the quality of service that the platform provides has fallen dramatically in the past few years. There have been a lot of complaints about the services that the company provides. 2. Is VRBO The Same As Expedia? Though it is true that the tour and travel website Expedia Group acquired VRBO in the year 2015, the latter made its debut in the year 1995. This means that VRBO has been around for a much longer time.Therefore, even if the company is under the Expedia Group, the two are two different sites, and they work very differently. 3. Does Airbnb Own VRBO? VRBO is a travel booking company that was founded in the year 1995. On the other hand, Airbnb was founded in 2008. These two are two separate companies, even though they are from the same industry. Expedia currently owns VRBO. Bottom Line: Should You Be Trying VRBO? There are many travel websites and agencies in the world, and it is one of them. It helps customers book their vacation and everything related to it. The way the platform works is very similar to how Airbnb does. That is one of the reasons why many people are confused about whether Airbnb owns VRBO. In case you were searching for the features and the user reviews of VRBO, I hope that you found this article to be of help. Also, if there are any other queries related to the same, feel free to comment them down in the box below. Read Also: Hotwire.Com – Best Review By Users In 2022 90 miles cuban cafe – Reviews, Special menu and Price The Speciality Of Barnaby’s Cafe – Reviews, Special menu and Price

5 Tips To Protect Your Passport While Travelling Abroad

BY Abdul Aziz Oct 4, 2021

Any visitor's worst nightmare is losing their phone, wallet, or, worse their passport in an unfamiliar location. You have no prior knowledge of the country, its inhabitants, or its language. And if you lose your essentials while traveling overseas, what was supposed to be a relaxing vacation becomes a full disaster. Losing your passport is the worst thing that can happen to you. Because it raises the most fundamental question: how will you get back home? But have no fear: every problem has a solution, and this one is no exception. So, if you ever find yourself in a situation like this, try not to freak out. Inhale deeply and exhale slowly. And once you've searched every nook and cranny and are certain it's gone, there are five basic things you should do if your Indian passport is misplaced while traveling abroad. File An Official Report For Lost Or Missing Passport To begin, locate the nearest police station and register a missing or lost passport complaint. Any travel insurance policy must include this step. It's also crucial information that you should bring to the attention of the embassy or consulate. However, keep in mind that this may not always expedite the procedure of apply for a new passport. Nonetheless, it is critical. A police report can also help you with embassy formalities like obtaining an emergency certificate or a new passport. Visit The Nearest Indian Embassy Or Consulate Next, go to the Indian embassy or consulate in your area. They will assist you in obtaining a new passport. Make an appointment ahead of time by calling ahead. It's also crucial to notify the embassy if your passport has been stolen. Find the one closest to you and acquire their phone number and email address so you may communicate with them. Keep All The Supporting Documents Ready As your appointment with the Indian embassy approaches, it would be preferable if you prepared the necessary documentation to replace your passport. When you visit the embassy, you will be required to submit some documents in addition to the application. It will take around a week to replace a new passport. For this, you must submit the following documents: Personal application stating the need for the new passport's prompt issuance Photocopy of lost passport (front and back pages), passport lost or stolen police report Passport size photos (4 to 6) Photocopy of air tickets and visa You also don't have to wait for a new replacement passport if you need to return to India right away. Simply fill out an application for an Emergency Certificate. This is a travel document that can only be used once. It allows an Indian citizen who has misplaced their passport to return to India without difficulty. You'll need to get your visas stamped anew for both of these alternatives. The following documents are required to apply for an Emergency Certificate: Application by giving an EAP-2 form Passport size photos (4 to 6) Photocopies of passport (Front and back pages) Police report for a lost or stolen passport. Appy For Re-Issue Of Your Visa If you lose your passport while traveling abroad, whatever visas you may have will be lost as well. As a result, you can reclaim your visa by going to the nation's embassy that issued it in the first place. For this process, you'll need a copy of your old visa as well as the police report that was submitted. It would also be beneficial if you had your new replacement passport. Reschedule Your Flight & Claim Travel Insurance On Return If your passport is lost or stolen, you will be unable to travel outside of the foreign nation until you acquire a new passport or an Emergency Certificate. As a result, you may need to reschedule your flight if necessary. Call your airline and let them know what's going on. The sooner you notify the airlines, the more likely you will avoid wasting your money on rescheduling your journey. Before going abroad, it's always a good idea to get travel insurance. If you've done all of this, make a claim for your travel insurance when you get back to India. Make a claim for a missing passport to redeem your insurance. Contact your insurance company as soon as possible, and preserve the police report and any other documents connected to the expenditures paid as a result of the loss of your passport on hand. So, if you lose your passport or it is stolen while on vacation overseas, these are the five things you must do. Above all, remember to be cheerful, take a deep breath, and avoid panicking. If you keep your cool, you'll be able to get through this scenario faster and with less stress. Read Also: Rejection Of China Tourist Visa In Atlanta – Some Possible Reasons How To Book A Driving License Slot Online?

Seven Reasons To Visit The Stunning Greek Ionian Islands