Seven Reasons To Visit The Stunning Greek Ionian Islands

Jul 25, 2023

Travel Guides

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 of Kefalonia, Lefkada, Corfu, Zakynthos, Paxos, and Ithaki, all wonderful island hot spots that you will adore exploring.

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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Arnab is a passionate blogger. He shares sentient blogs on topics like travel, health, lifestyle etc. If you want to read refulgent blogs so please follow Tour And Travel Blog.

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Can You Bring Cigarettes On A Plane? Know Your Answer Here!

BY sagnika sinhaJun 6, 2023

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Top 11 Outlets In Massachusetts You Can Visit While Traveling

BY Barsha BhattacharyaNov 2, 2022

If you love to shop and you are visiting Massachusetts soon, then you have arrived at the right destination because today, we will discuss the best outlets in Massachusetts that you simply can’t miss out on while traveling. Also, how can you not shop while you are visiting the home ground of factory outlets of some of the biggest international brands? So let’s dive straight into the world of factory outlets and find out which ones you should check out on your trip to Massachusetts. Top 11 Outlets In Massachusetts You Can Visit While Traveling: The sheer number of premium outlets in Massachusetts can make any shopper’s dream come true. Not everyone can afford to buy what’s latest on the Runway, but that doesn’t mean they can’t opt for factory outlets of the same premium Runway brands! So without wasting any more time, scroll down to find out all the factory outlets you must check out in Massachusetts. 1. Wrentham Village Premium Outlets: If you are looking for cool Wrentham outlets, then you must head over to the Wrentham Village Premium Outlets - these outlets have a fantastic collection of designer brands and labels. Known for being the largest outlet center in New England, this one is only 35 minutes from Boston. Review By Bryanmantezoni:“We visited this place which was ver clean with plenty of parking spaces, we spent about 3 hours visiting all the stores, we didn’t not find it to be amusing regarding sales, it seemed like other outlets have better deals even regular stores might give you better deals, just ok to visit and window shop, nothing to wow about.” 2. Lee Premium Outlets: One of the busiest outlets in Massachusetts, the Lee Premium Outlet center offers visitors impressive savings at various stores such as BCBG Max Azria, Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Talbots, Polo Ralph Lauren, Michael Kors, Nike, Lacoste, Brooks Brothers, Coach, J.Crew, Gap Outlet, Cole Han, and more. Review By Mr. Putnam:“Visited the area with my lady for her birthday getaway weekend. We stopped at the outlet center for a few items and spent nearly five hours shopping at several lovely shops adding more than $1,000 to the local economy. The shopkeepers were exceptional and very caring. We got some great buys as well!!” 3. Five Town Plaza: Five Town Plaza is one of the lesser-known outlet centers in Massachusetts. But that’s the best part about this location! Don’t we all love a little exclusivity when it comes to rocking a personal style? Review By Lobstaluva:“We miss the convenience of the AAA office, but we love the addition of IHOP. The restaurant is clean, staff friendly, and welcoming, and the food has been consistently good. When we go, it is for a late breakfast. We are never sure what we plan to order, but it will always include those delicious harvest grain and nut pancakes. We try to have Ray as our server; he is great!” 4. Goodlinens Studio: The Goodlinens Studio is located in the oldest working seaport of the United States, at downtown Gloucester. The best part about this outlet center is all the useful, beautiful products for baths, homes, and kitchens. Launched in 2016, Goodlinens Studio is not one of your usual Boston outlets - they have their own line of products crafted with style! Review By Margaret N:“While visiting family in Gloucester over Christmas, we visited Good linens. What a fantastic store and fun to look around. What impressed me were the interesting brushes they sell, brushes that clean everything and anything. The two women running the store were helpful but not pushy. Can't wait to visit this store again.” 5. New Balance: One of the best footwear outlets in Massachusetts, you simply can’t miss out on New Balance. The center is famous for its footwear, accessories, and related merchandise collection. Plus, the place has killer reviews, and visitors have only good things to say - so it’s a complete win-win! Review By Dracut-Phantom_K:“There is a large selection of footwear for the serious runner or serious walker! Also, a large selection of fitness clothing and accessories. The prices are great, and there always seems to be some kind of sale going on!” 6. New Balance Factory Store: Finding a good factory outlet in Massachusetts is not a difficult task but at the same time, finding the one that suits your tastes can be exhausting, especially in a setting like Massachusetts, where you are spoilt for choice. So, finding New Balance Factory Store was a blessing - you need to check the place out once, and you will know what we are talking about! Review By MrWarrenM:“I visited New Balance with my wife, who was shopping for a pair of comfortable walking shoes for the first time yesterday. She had such a great experience here. The sales associate that helped her was great without being pushy. She was having a really hard time finding a pair of comfortable walking shoes, so I decided to stop here.” 7. Fran's Designer Clothing Outlet: Fran's Designer Clothing Outlet is one of those places where women can disappear for hours - it’s a shopping paradise with cute outfits and affordable rates. Moreover, the staff is also friendly and always happy to help. There’s no reason why you shouldn’t visit this place - it’s worth your time! Review By Hoorge:“Fran's Designer Clothing Outlet is a store where women could disappear for an hour or two as they happily try on dresses of all kinds, including vintage, prom, casual, glamour, and much much more. The store also carries interesting hats and shoes. Dresses are pretty and the prices are quite reasonable. Staff is attentive and happily assist when needed. Women love this place.” 8. Eddie Bauer Outlet: If you were planning to check out Wrentham mall and skip out on the famous outlets in Massachusetts, then you were on your way to making a big mistake. The Eddie Bauer outlet is one such place you must check out if you love shopping - plenty of options on clothes available at reasonable prices. And you might just get some crazy deals! Review By BandBCuties:“For any fans of Eddie Bauer clothing this place will be a great find for you. We have an outlet by us but have never find as many bargains as we did while shopping at this store. Make sure you ask about their sales tax policy because if you spend over so much (which we did) you get charged a different sales tax. Happy shopping.” 9. Osgood's: Did you know that Osgood’s happens to be 60+? We didn’t know that when we visited this famous outlet! If you google ‘outlets in Boston Massachusetts,’ you will find Osgood’s name on every list - so there was no reason we were going to leave it out from our ultimate list for shoppers visiting Massachusetts. Review By Adventure Diva:“This 60+ year old outlet does not disappoint. I've visited many times over the years and appreciate the fact you can purchase everything under one roof. Lots of unique options are here including a selection of cashmere, silks, vintage fabrics, blinds and accessories for home decor, ulphostery, clothing and crafting. Fashion designers, theater groups and individual customers come here to check out their wide assortment.” 10. Vortex/New England Stained Glass: Launched in 1975, the Vortex/New England Stained Glass is well known for its dedication and quality. The store is perfect for people seeking stained glass windows customized to their preference or anyone who is on the verge of restoring their windows. Review By Joseph Rapoza:“Very nice people the owner took the time to greet me and show me quite a few windows. They do wonderful work at work from what I can see they have a large selection of stained glass windows most of them are from churches. The prices seem reasonable for what he has unfortunately for me I did not purchase anything. Great people they took their time with me I thank you” 11. The Longmeadow Shops: One of our favorite outlets in Massachusetts, the Longmeadow Shops are located right at the center of the whole Longmeadow Community. This is one of those walking malls that offer a huge variety of local and national retail stores, accompanied by gift shops, eateries, and restaurants. If you google ‘outlets in ma,’ you will see how Longmeadow pops up everywhere! Review By E M:“Always love shopping at Longmeadow shops. It’s very clean and has a variety of shops I don’t see anywhere else in the area. I love to buy beautiful clothes that are different than what you would find at the local mall and Longmeadow Shops has the stores that carry these “different” types of styles!” Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Check out the most frequently asked questions about the top outlets in Massachusetts people can visit while traveling mentioned below. 1. What Outlets Are In Mass? Ans: The top outlets in Massachusetts are as follows:➊ Wrentham Village Premium Outlets,➋ Lee Premium Outlets,➌ Five Town Plaza,➍ Good linens Studio, and➎ New Balance. 2. Are Things Cheaper At Wrentham Outlets? Ans: Wrentham Outlets are already famous for their discounted merchandise, but if you are visiting during Black Fridays, you can expect to save a lot of money. However, you will typically find the best savings at all the expensive stores in the area - so always check those out first! 3. Are Outlets Cheaper Than Regular Malls? Ans: Generally, most consumers are able to score crazy discounts at different outlet stores. But, sometimes, it is right there on the price tag - a normal retail price accompanied by a satisfactory sale price. So in case you hate paying the retail price for most items, it’s always better to head to an outlet than to malls. 4. What Is The Largest Outlet Mall In The Us? Ans: The largest retail, outlet, and entertainment destination in the United States is Sawgrass Mills, with a solid 350 stores! The place has stores from the best designers across the world, like Gucci, Jimmy Choo, Prada, Ralph Lauren, Polo, Michael Kors, and Coach. And It’s A Wrap! So now that you know all the outlets in Massachusetts that you must visit while traveling, what are you waiting for? Instead of googling ‘outlets Massachusetts,’ why don’t you pack your bags and get ready to shop till you drop? A shopper’s paradise, Massachusetts is home to some of the best factory outlets across the globe - you simply can’t miss out! And whatever you do, don’t forget to let us know about your experiences inside the famous factory outlets of Massachusetts in the comments below! Read Also:  Things To Do In Maryland Top 10 Affordable Hostels In Los Angeles Why Myrtle Beach Is The Ideal Summer Destination