That's my bestie Anita! She was my subject most of the time
The only seasons to avoid are the summer months (June – August), which is peak tourist season. The exchange rate is 1 USD = 0.91 Euro. Some of the popular Greek cuisines include dolmades, moussaka, grilled meat, gyros, octopus, and honey & baklava.
Our AirBnB in Kamari, Santorini
Greece is a beautiful country that is filled with friendly people friendly people and delicious street food that will keep you coming back. Greece is known for its black beaches, ancient history, and culinary experiences. With the financial crisis, it has become a very affordable country in the tourist community. Greece is the perfect place to experience the vacation that you deserve.
However, there were a few things I wish I would've known before. No need to fret! Below are some helpful things that you can save you money and help you enjoy your amazing time in Greece.
The most beautiful sunset. Oia, Santorini, Greece
1. Traveling to the Greek Islands can get expensive.
A lot of travel articles paint the picture that traveling to the various islands such as Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes, and Ios is a hop, skip, and jump away....lies! The Greek islands are a result of multiple volcanic eruptions where some of the islands are a bit remote from the mainland. When you go to buy your ticket, to any island, you have the option of either choosing the express ship or the slow one. While on my trip I traveled to Santorini from Athens where the express was 4 hours (70 euros) and the slower route was 6-7 hours (40 euros).
Choose your battles.
2. The restaurants are good but the street food is BETTER!
Traditional gyros have french fries in them! This particular gyros is from Sabbas Kabap in Athens, Greece
I've always been a fan of Mediterranean food but there's something about going to Greece that made me fall in love even more. The main street food that I ate every day were the gyros. And guess what?! Traditional gyros have french fries in them - yum! The best gyros in Athens are at Sabbas Kabab and make sure you get extra tzatziki sauce :)
The best part? It's only 2.5 euros!
3. When in doubt ask someone under the age of 30.
English is becoming the universal language where it's mandatory for most students to learn the language through their schooling, because of this most youth will be able to help translate for you.
Whenever you're lost, ask a young person.
Anywhere on the cliff is beautiful! Oia, Santorini, Greece
Fira, Santorini, Greece
4. Rent a car (ATV) when traveling on the islands.
When someone told me to rent a car while in Santorini I was completely against the idea. Would it be expensive? What are the insurance policies? Will it be a stick shift? My reservations were plenty. What sold me was the price, 40 euros a day. The islands are not pedestrian friendly and taxis can get extremely expensive. All of the cars are small in order to navegate the narrow roads on the island and can
Tip: If it has a blue dome, 90% of the time it's a church. Try not to stay too close to a church because the church bels are LOUD!!
The most beautiful sunset. Oia, Santoriini, Greece
I love bread! *Oprah voice*
Fira, Santorini, Greece
5. Oia (pronounced EE-yah).
Just in case you're asking a local for directions
6. Oia isn't the only beautiful place in Santorini.
Now don't get me wrong, Oia is breathtaking but don't spend all of your time there. Another great place on the island of Santorini is Fira. Fira has it's share of tourist but not as congested as Oia. Fira has beautiful cliff views, shopping, and a GREAT night life. Like most places outside of the USA there is no cover charge for clubs (win!!), so you can club hop as much as your heart desires. Below are a few clubs and restaurants to hit up while in Fira:
- Two Brothers (club)
- Town (club)
- Fisherman's Cove
- Sunset Cafe
- Terpsi Oia
- Stamna Garden Taverna (order the fried calamari and greek salad!)
Cave homes in Athens, Greece
7. The metro (train) is really easy - use it!
The metro train can pretty much take you anywhere including all of the major tourist sites. You can either purchase a one time pass or unlimited. I suggest the unlimited because you never know where your adventure may take you :)
Grilled stuffed peppers from All That Jatz. Athens, Greece
Acropolis! Athens, Greece
8. They also have Uber there :)
Uber isn't available on the islands but definitely in Athens.
9. Touring the Acropolis is NOT free.
Traditional Greek Ouzo shot given after each meal. Opa!!
All That Jatz. Athens, Greece
Keep in mind that Greece is in a financial crisis so they will "nickel 'n dime" you at any cost, especially at the major tourists sites. Getting into the acropolis was 20 euros - over priced in my opinion, but still worth it. I couldn't help but marvel at the beautiful marble and limestone structures that were built thousands of years ago. It definitely makes you appreciate the ancient greek empire more. After learning so much about greek mythology and their ancient empire it made me appreciate the Acropolis a lot more.
10. All the souvenirs places are exactly the same. No need to look through them all.
Mugs, t-shirts, key-chains, you name it! Each and every store has them and they're very inexpensive. Trying to find the right souvenir is understandable, but do yourself a favor and understand that all of the touristy shops are the exact same. Don't waste your time.
Santorini, Greece
Grilled octopus in Santorini, Greece
11. Greece is not only olive oil
White Chocolate crepe from Little Kook in Athens, Greece
I know I already spoke about the food but I wanted to bring it up again. My favorite seafood while visiting was the grilled octopus! There's nothing like a nice smoky octopus served with fresh veggies at the seaside.
I also wanted to mention this really cool place called Little Kook in Athens, Greece. It's a restaurant that has a very dark and gothic feel to it that serves really great deserts and coffee. I order the white chocolate crepe and let me tell you...*does praise break* not only was it rich but it was so warm and fluffy. It literally tasted like a decadent pancake. Please check this place out.
Hope you visit Greece!!
Anita in Santorini, Greece