Mykonos, the world famous island of the Aegean, is bursting with life. Celebrities and dignitaries from all over the world make this island a destination to shop, sun bathe, party, and island hop. Cruise ships from all over the world come here. It is a busy island with all the amenities of a modern resort and with plenty to do by day and night. Yet visitors that yearn for a more peaceful vacation will still find quiet places to enjoy their rest and relaxation. The capital, Hora, is adorned by beautiful, whitewashed, boxed-shaped houses, the balconies of which are adorned with beautiful flowery plants like begonias, stone-paved, intertwining, narrow streets and small red-roofed chapels, along with first-class restaurants and simple tavernas. There are cafes, bars and clubs galore as its reputation for being a “party island” stills rings true. Much of the activity happens in "Taxi Square" near the harbor front where the statue of Mando Mavrogenous proudly stands. Petros the Pelican is the mascot of the island. The charming, whitewashed windmills are the most recognized landmarks here in Mykonos. Once used for grinding grain, they are no longer needed for this purpose. A few have been restored and operate as museums, such as the Boni Mill. Others have been renovated and are used as dwellings. Don’t miss out on visiting one of the most famous architectural structures in Greece, as well as one of the most photographed churches in the world is Panagia Paraportiani Church. There are several museums to explore, including the Aegean Maritime Museum, Archaeological Museum, Folklore Museum and "Lena's House". For archaeology buffs, the small island of Delos has one of Greece's most famous archaeological sites. The there is the site of the Three Pigádia (three wells) where water was procured in previous years There are more than 500 churches and monasteries on the island. Ano Mera, the main inland town on the island, located near the only hill boast of the Monastery of Panagiá Tourlianí. A true shopper’s delight, Mykonos Town (called also Chora) is full of numerous small shops that carry anything from trendy designer labels to traditional ceramics and fine antiques. You’ll find hand-woven and hand-embroidered clothing, rugs, bedspreads and tablecloths from around Greece, as well as a variety of other local handicrafts. Jewelry, in particular dolphins, which represent love to the Greeks, is a specialty. Shopping hours can actually extend to 2 in the morning for some stores and bargaining for price reductions is definitely part of the experience. Of course you will want to walk along the outstanding golden beaches such as Agios Stefanos, Psarou, Kalafatis, Plati Gialos (the best), Ornos, Elia and Panormos. Jet ski, waterskiing, windsurfing, wakeboarding and parasailing are available. Other activities that you can enjoy are mopeds, which offer a chance to see remote areas of the island. It's illegal to ride them through town though because the streets are narrow and are almost exclusively reserved for foot traffic. Land lovers in seek of a thrill will enjoy the go-karts adjacent to the Hard Rock. For those who want a “taste” of Italy, visit “Little Venice”. With a plethora of lodging facilities, in all their various forms, you’ll find the one that’s right for you and one that your wallet can handle. The many eating spots offer traditional Greek, local specialties and international dishes too for whatever you desire. So come to Mykonos, the island of fun in the sun and party to your heart’s content or get your needed R&R. All this and more awaits you on this Greek paradise where the memories of a lifetime are made. |