We had a little trouble renting a scooter on Skiathos,  went to a couple of offices who flatly refused us,  saying that as we only had a car licence we couldn’t hire a scooter of any kind, even a 50cc. They seem  much stricter here than on other Islands, must be a local issue.

Tried a few other outlets and finally got the go ahead for a 50cc as long as we didn’t try to take it to the mountains ( it barely made it up a few of the bigger hills).  They are great value at only  $NZ 24 per day.

Off we went, following the coast road checking out the beaches along the way.  Had one hairy moment when a cat ran out in front of us before I could react at all!  How we missed him we’ve no idea but we both lived to tell the tale.

Found some lovely beaches,  the prize being Koukounaries which is touted as the best beach in Greece.   It is certainly stunning, especially at the moment while it’s quieter  but once the crowds arrive it would be chaos.  Most of the beaches here charge 8 euros ( $12 ) for an umbrella and two chairs for the day.   We managed to find a great beach called Vromolimnos where the chairs were out but no one around to charge as it was quiet hehe.  Many beaches have chairs “gratis“ provided you buy drinks or food which is a great way to go!

We headed inland for a look but the poor old scooter struggled with the hills so we were somewhat restricted.  Saw some beautiful villas perched on the hillsides with wonderful views,  it’s an incredibly green and lush island, totally unlike those in the Cyclades which are often barren.  We had some rain yesterday which in itself is unusual, better not have any more! 

Our evenings are spent exploring the mazes of stepped , narrow alleyways, taking in the sights, sounds  and delicious aromas eminating from the many tavernas, restaurants, cafes and homes. Aligning the waterfront are many bars, playing every genre of music and providing seating  in the form of brightly coloured pillows . Happy hour seems to last for four hours for some reason, not that we’re complaining!  It’s this aimless wandering that is such a highlight of coming here.

One more day here and then off to check out Skopelos which is quite close.

30th May

Arrived at Skopelos Town today after a 1.5 hour ferry ride from Skiathos.  It’s  like a smaller version of Skiathos but much quieter.  Just stunning !  Another  harbour town lined with cafes and tavernas with the houses clinging to the hills above.  Angela met us off the ferry offering a pension with a balcony , sea views, a  kitchen and air con , what more could we ask for?  Turned out to be perfect and we haggled a little to get the room for 20 Euros.  Angela said we are the first guests here for the season!  Had lunch overlooking the water and then a walk to nearby Agios Konstantinos beach for a swim to clear our heads after a few too many ouzos last night!  We have been turned down at all places for a scooter so will hire a small car to  explore the Island.

31^st May

Today we did the big hike up to the 18th Century Monastery pearched on the hill above the town. It's home to an amazing 11th Century Icon of the Virgin Mary. Spectactular views!!! It's starting to get real hot now so the swim after the decent was great.   Another great lunch of pork souvlaki and salad overlooking the harbour.  It's a tough life but someone has to do it!!!

We've not mentioned the people yet but as some of you know they are an amazing race, generous, gregarious, creative and very welcoming. They love to chat and joke and seem to spend hours discussing life and politics.   All at the top of their voices haha!

Renting a car tomorrow to check out the beaches so watch this space xx

Tuesday 24^th May 2011

Yassas! 

Our Greek adventure begins!

 We are on a quick cat bound for the Island of Skiathos in the Sporades group of the Aegean.  We arrived here via two eleven hour flights ,a seven hour stopover in Singapore ( meeting up with Hamish on his way back from the IPL in India)an hour bus to the main Athens  bus terminal  and a two hour bus trip to the small mainland port of Agios Konstantinos

We are feeling a little jaded, not having had much sleep on the plane and fighting some hungry mosquitoes last night but the excitement is keeping us going, it’s wonderful to be back!  We celebrated our arrival with Greek salads, pork souvlaki and Mythos beer!  The food is amazing!

Wed 25^th

We were greeted on arrival by very few pension owners offering rooms  to let, as its early in the season, we chose one, and we got an incredible find, a two bedroom room with kitchen, two balconies, bathroom and a rooftop area with views over the harbour.  All for 30 Euros a night ( about NZ $58 )

Skiathos town is very picturesque, with its red-roofed, white washed houses built on two low hills  and with two small ports, an old port where the local fishing boats moor and a new port for the ferries and yachts.  The entire waterfront is lined with cafes, tavernas, bars and hotels, a very cosmopolitan Island as it has an airport and gets saturated with tourists during July/August.  Perfect now though as there is a reasonable amount of people to make it interesting and loads to look at in the narrow,  stepped streets and alley ways.

Meryl Streep used Skiathos Town as her base while filming Mama Mia over on Skopelos Island ( our next stop ) We are trying to find the house she stayed in !

There are some amazing tavernas here , purched on the hills above on the water, with sensational views,  all very romatic and condusive to eating more than you need!  Last night we had a Greek salad , fried calamari, stuffed tomatoes and peppers and the usual Mythos beer. Making you hungry Chas?   After our morning swim ( still a little chilly )  we watched a local fisherman in a small row boat catch 4 octopus , dragging a small lure that looked like a small fish...something to try maybe !!!! All we need is a boat!

There are some 65 beaches here to choose from,  including one touted as the best beach in Greece at Koukounaries. We shall see, as we plan to get a scooter tomorrow and go exploring.

Welcome

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 We hope you enjoy following our travels to the Greek Islands.

 Commencing 22nd May 2011

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