Santorini in a Day - Ordeal or Adventure part 2
If you go:
Take the Santorini Express ferry from Athens' Piraeus Port. The price of a first class ticket is well worth the extra space and comfort you'll get compared to economy or (regular) tourist class.
Travel light -- no matter which class you take on the ferry, you'll have to carry your luggage up a couple of very steep flights of stairs to board the ship.
Dress for intense sun and strong winds during the eight-hour ferry journey. Expect brief stops at the islands of Paros, Naxos, and Ios enroute to Santorini.
If time is short, a 45-minute flight will get you from Athens to Santorini via Olympic Airways.
Many types of accommodations are available. If you stay in the trendier village of Thira (Fira), you'll pay more and climb more, too, as you navigate hilly terrain. If you're looking for peace and quiet, especially in the off-season of May or September, try the black sand beach village of Kamari. Prices are more reasonable, and the terrain flatter. You'll save money and have access to a greater variety of accommodations if you book with a travel agent upon your arrival in Athens.
Getting around Santorini is easy. Clean, efficient buses run often and will take you nearly everywhere on the island. Mopeds can be rented in most villages, and vehicle rentals can be arranged in Thira. When on foot, a flashlight and proper footwear are recommended for negotiating the steep terrain and dimly-lit roads and walkways.
A funicular, or cable car, operates to take you from sea level up to Thira, which on foot is 587 steps. A mild earthquake had pre-empted operation of the cable car during our Santorini visit.
The Greeks tilt their heads backwards to indicate, "No." Don't mistake this for what North Americans would gesture to mean, "Yes."
Currency used is the Greek drachma. Most places accept major credit cards. Bank machines for instant cash are available in Thira.
Climate is favorable year-round. Mid-80's in the summer, and expect a very pleasant range of 65-75∞ Fahrenheit in spring or fall.
You'll find an abundance of excellent eating establishments. Be sure to have a horiatiki -- the traditional Greek salad made without lettuce.
Shopping throughout the island provides for lots of souvenirs including painted and ceramic artwork and hand-crafted jewelry.
Give yourself at least a week to take in the highlights around Santorini -- including touring an island vineyard or swimming at the black or red sand beaches.
For more current information on Santorini, visit http://www.santorini.net/home.html