Santorini was on my list for quite some time, but because we have no direct flights from Birmingham and Sanotrini just seemed like a destination for the ”special ocasion” I just I gave up on it until now. The timing was just perfect as it was our first Wedding Anniversary – and with its stunning sunsets, breathtaking landscapes, and romantic ambiance, Santorini is the perfect place to celebrate love and create unforgettable memories.
Nestled in the Aegean Sea, Santorini boasts picturesque white-washed buildings perched atop volcanic cliffs, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the deep blue sea. The island’s unique architecture and charming narrow streets add to its romantic allure, making it a dreamy setting for couples seeking a romantic escape.
Arise Suites
Arise Suites opened its doors few months ago hence it’s not yet as popular, overpriced and overcrowded, which makes it a perfect place to indulge and soak up the sun with Aegean Sea views. As you step into Arise Suites, you’ll be embraced by a sense of tranquility and elegance. The resort’s architecture; inspired by the traditional Cycladic style, blends harmoniously with the island’s captivating landscapes. The pristine earthy interiors and azure accents seamlessly integrate with the natural surroundings, offering a soothing ambiance that instantly puts you at ease.
The main highlight of our stay at Arise was the infinity pool, delicious breakfasts and mesmerizing sunsets.
Exploring the island hand in hand, you’ll discover charming villages like Oia and Fira, each with its distinct charm and hidden gems. The island’s beaches, from the iconic Red Beach to the lesser-known White Beach, provide tranquil spots to relax and soak in the sun.
Oia
Oia is a captivating gem that steals the hearts of every traveler who sets foot on its charming streets. One of the main reasons Oia attracts visitors from all corners of the world is its breathtaking sunsets. Watching the sunset from the iconic Oia Castle or the cliffside paths is an experience that will stay with you forever.
Whitewashed buildings adorned with colorful domes, blue shutters, and bougainvillea flowers create a postcard-perfect scene. Explore the various boutique shops, art galleries, and quaint cafes that line the streets, offering an authentic taste of Greek island life.
Influencers in Santorini
Prior to our trip I obviously read some blog posts and did a bit of research only to find out that Influencers in Santorini are mad mad and that locals actually hate influencers. Naturally, as a blogger and content creator I thought ”Oh, come on. Let people do what they love! It cannot be that bad” – but you guys, I NOW GET IT.
6am Sunday, Famous Blue Domes in Oia – we were pretty sure we’re not going to see any tourists as early as 6am but there was already a queue of people waiting for their turn to take a photo with the most iconic view – I mean.. not a huge surprise – normal people doing normal things – I thought. Untill a group of girls started being so uncomfortably loud, not to mention their bags full of clothes to change between photoshoots – there’s a difference between taking a couple of photos and blocking the pathway for other tourists – but this wasn’t even that bad.
Bear in mind there are many locals living a normal life in Oia. They work, they sleep, and they probably need some peace just like all of us. That’s the reason they put a huge ”NO ENTRY” signs on their doorsteps and gates, hoping that tourists won’t invade their personal space – well, not happening. Not in Oia.
There was this girl who just opened the gate witch a clear, red sign ”No entry” and entered someone’s terrace, set up her tripod next to their window and started recording/taking photos like there’s no tomorrow. Not to mention all those people climbing onto the churches..
I’m a Content Creator myself so I get it: it takes time and effort to capture this one, perfect picture – but never, ever in my entire life I’ve invided someone’s property to take a picture. It costs nothing to be kind and respectful.
Ensure that your presence does not cause any damage to the environment or private property. Avoid leaving behind any litter or disturbing the natural surroundings.
Use designated viewpoints: Santorini offers many public viewpoints and popular spots for taking photos. Stick to these designated areas to ensure you’re not intruding on private property.
Places to visit:
- Órmos Ammoúdi
- Castle of Oia
- Red Beach
- Church of the Resurrection of the Lord
- Blue Domed Church Santorini
- Three Bells of Fira
- Θέα Ημεροβίγλι
- Imerovigli
- Ammoudi Bay
- Kamari Beach
Restaurants/Bars:
- Santo Winery
- Naboo Santorini
- Barolo Restaurant
- Yalos
- Mama’s Restaurant & Wine Bar
- KooKoo Bar Restaurant Sunset View
- The Vine Cocktail & Wine Restaurant
- Panigyri Santorini
- Vanilia
- Lolita’s Gelato
- Aegean Restaurant
- Lucky’s Souvlakis
- Wet Stories
- Karma Greek Restaurant
- Le Moustache Caldera Pool Lounge & Restaurant
Facts:
- July is undeniably one of the busiest months in Santorini so if you’re planning to visit the island in peak season bear in mind it’s going to be SUPER crowded. I’m an early bird, so waking up before sunrise is not a big deal – exploring Santorini before 8am is honestly the only option to actually SEE things. Only once we went to Oia after 11am and.. no thanks!
- It gets extremely hot – not a surprise, right? It’s summer. IN GREECE. But I’m just not used to this extreme heat, it got to the point where it was impossible to stay outside, 40+ degrees, not a single cloud. Make sure you protect your head/skin, stay hydrated and stay at AC’d accomondation.
- Santorini is expensive – and I’m a spender, ok? Especially abroad. But Santorini was the most expensive Greek island I’ve been to.
- Tap water in Santorini is terrible and left my skin and hair so dry and damaged. Please bear that in mind and limit the usage of tap water on your skin and hair, take a good moistruiser and hair mask with you – thank me later.
- Unless you stay in one of the main towns and not planning to explore the island – you need a car. Hotels & Suites on the outskirts of Oia/Fira are based pretty much in the middle of nowhere.
- Make sure you have your most comfortable shoes when travelling to Santorini, you will be doing a lot of walking. Ever seen pictures of women wearing heels in Santorini? Trust me, it’s just for a picture. You won’t be able to wear heels on the streets of Santorini.
- It’s freaking WINDY. And I’m actually glad I didn’t take any of my summer hats with me as they would be absolutely useless – unles superglued onto my head 😉
- The most famous Cavo Tagoo is glamourised by influencers. Way overpriced, not as glamurous as it seems on SM, rude staff, double standards and toxic vibes – trust me when I say you can find somethig much, much better and cheaper.
- Santorini is often compared to Mykonos – been to both and if you asked me which one I’d love to visit again, it’s Mykonos. Both islands are absolutely beautiful, I just preffered the positive vibes of Mykonos.
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