Santorini, Greece

There is a reason why the Greek island of Santorini is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. It is pure magic. There are very few places in the world where one can stand on a cliff, amidst some of the most stunning and charming architecture in the world, and be even more amazed at the turquoise waters swirling below. Santorini, for all intents and purposes, is the stuff tourist dreams are made of.

Which is why Kevin and I made a last minute decision on our Turkey trip, to extend our travel to Greece. We really hadn't planned on it, as there is so much to do and see in Turkey! But when we realized we were only a few hours away from this epic oasis, we thought, "what the heck, let's do it!". And we did. 

We arrived into the port at 1am, and the next morning woke up to sunshine and a dreamland out our window. We rented an ATV (which is very common on the island so that tourists can keep stabilized on the very steep slopes!). We set out into the picturesque town of Oia, and spent the day being mesmerized by the white washed buildings and blue domes. 

A few of our favorite things on the island:

1) Oia: This is the absolute best town on the island! Even though it is tiny, there is so much to explore! You may recognize it from the movie Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants! 

2) Ammoudi Bay: From Oia, you can drive down the steep slopes and park to explore the gorgeous Ammoudi Bay. There are a handful of really neat fish restaurants down here where you can sample octopus, and have a very picturesque and delicious lunch. We had just eaten, so instead we took a little hike along the Ammoudi bay trail and cliffs! 

3) Eating! : Our favorite restaurant on Santorini was a place called Pelekanos, in Oia. It is a rooftop terrace that has the best views, and the Most delicious food! They are a local family run restaurant that serves all local grown foods from the island! Our waitress was the owner's daughter who grew up on the island. She was so sweet and told us the best places to explore on the island. She also told us about the filming of "Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants!" Her uncle was an extra in the movie!! 

I hope that everyone gets a chance to visit this island some day! Our stay was so brief, and I do hope to go back! But for now…enjoy the photos! Happy Monday friends:)