While its popularity remains more or less unharmed by the crisis, visitors admit the tourist crowd may sometimes become a burden. Those, who are willing to go slightly out of their way to discover something special, should seek out the Samothraki island.

The island is not exactly a package-type destination, however, it is secluded and tranquil, features wondrous natural beauty and amazing people who are warm and welcoming. There is no commercial airport on Samothraki, and getting there is easiest from Kavala or Alexandropouli by ferry.

The island rises up from the sea and its most significant landmark, which basically makes up the entire island is Mount Fengari (the Mountain of the Moon). Fans of Ancient Greece should not miss the Sanctuary of the Great Gods, local sacred site, which once served as a centre of a mystery cult. There is a plaster cast of the well-known statue of Nike, the ‘Winged Victory of Samothrace’ whose original remains in Louvre, Paris.

Samothraki also features many beautiful waterfalls and pools of the river Phonias. Visiting the hot springs at Loutra is a must and there are a couple of fantastic beaches on the west and east end of the island.

The two main centers are Kamariotissa and Chora; these are ideal to seek accommodation. Local tourist infrastructure is not exactly advanced and visitor should keep in mind paying by card is virtually impossible there. However, such a price is not too high in exchange for a destination of such beauty and charm.

Athens tops Badoo’s “World Flirtation League”, which ranks nearly 200 cities by the number of online flirtations initiated per month by the average user in each.

Moscow ranks second, Rome 8th, Paris 38th and London 57th.

The average Badoo user in Athens initiates 25.7 online flirtations per month – twice as many as in Rio (12.4) or Prague (12.6) and far more than in Paris (20.7), London (19.0) or New York (16.1).

Tunis, birthplace of the “Jasmine Revolution”, is among three Arab cities (Kuwait, Tunis, Beirut) to make the world top 10, with three former Soviet ones (Moscow, Kiev, Baku) and three Italian (Turin, Rome, Bari).

“Athens was the birthplace of Socrates, Aristotle, Plato and Western philosophy itself”, says Lloyd Price, Badoo’s Director of Marketing. “Once again, it leads the world.”

Dr Simon Hardy, author of “The Greeks, Eroticism and Ourselves”, comments: “It’s probably fair to say that the Athenians perfected the art of flirtation in ancient times, especially at the time of symposia [flirtatious drinking parties] described by Plato”.

Modern Athenians have continued the tradition, says Victoria Kyriakopoulous, author of The Lonely Planet Guide to Athens: “Athens is a seductive city, with a hedonistic lifestyle. Flirting and sexual banter are part of social interaction.”

“Old Athenians flirt. Married ones flirt. Now, young Athenians are simply using technology to do what Athenians have always done.”

WORLD TOP TEN

RANK CITY SCORE*

1 Athens 25.7

2 Moscow 25.5

3 Kuwait City 25.4

4 Baku 24.9

5 Tunis 24.7

6 Kiev 24.5

7 Beirut 24.0

8= Turin 23.7

8= Rome 23.7

10 Bari 23.6

* Number of flirtations initiated monthly by average Badoo user there.

SOME OTHER MAJOR CITIES

RANK CITY SCORE

38 Paris 20.7

47 Montreal 19.9

57 London 19.0

79 Berlin 17.7

89 New York 16.1

151 Rio 12.4

Image via holamun2.com

UNWTO appealed to all tourism stakeholders to show their solidarity with Greece during this challenging period, stressing that the sector should not be suffering unfairly as a result of the current situation.

UNWTO secretary-general, Taleb Rifai, emphasized that: “The upcoming summer season is a vital opportunity for all players in the industry to show their support for tourism in Greece, one of the most important destinations in the world and a reference for all of us. Letting down the tourism sector in Greece would only contribute to accelerate the current difficulties. We have an obligation towards Greece.”

Tourism is one of Greece’s principal strategic economic sectors, contributing significantly to the country’s GDP and exports, and can, therefore, play a key role in supporting recovery.

photo;theodora.com

For many years, Greece has had a reputation as one of the most exotic, remote and diverse nations in Europe. A combination of mountainous mainland and intimate islands with pure white beaches, Greece may have struck travelers as an out-of-reach destination. But times are changing.

With tour operators cutting prices on packages all over the world, travelers have been able to find exceptional value to destinations considered inaccessible before the recession. And while the classic destinations (London, Paris, the Caribbean, Mexico, etc.) will always beckon, the recent price cuts and value-adds have put Greece back on the tourist map.

“Interest in specific destinations is as cyclical as travel and tourism itself,” says Marc Kazlauskas, president of Insight Vacations. “Greece is almost always popular. Even in slower years, such as 2008 and 2009, we saw a respectable [number] of bookings on our Greece departures.”

Other tour operators, however, have observed a distinct rise in travel to Greece. Paul Wiseman, president of Trafalgar Tours, says Greece has moved up from the company’s sixth most-popular destination in 2008 to third in 2009. “The main reason for the popularity is the great value that Greece offers as a destination,” he says. “In tough economic times, the local prices for food, drinks and entertainment as well as sightseeing and accommodation are very important to people.”

Nick Koutsis, vice president of the Greece and Eastern Mediterranean division for Central Holidays, has noticed fluctuating numbers for travel to Greece. From 2004 to 2007, he says, Greece experienced annual growth of 8-11 percent, in terms of visitors from the U.S. “In 2008, numbers leveled off, mostly attributable to a steep decline of the U.S. dollar vs. the euro and sharply [rising] fuel prices. [The following year] brought a decrease of 15 to 20 percent due to the worldwide economic crisis.” Current booking activity, however, indicates a positive turn and points to an increase upward of 10 percent for 2010.

Koutsis credits the 2004 Athens Olympics for Greece’s increased popularity. “The Games boosted the international image of Greece as a safe, hospitable destination-rich in history, culture and natural beauty,” he says. “Additionally, a number of major public works [airports, highways, bridges, subways, etc.] have greatly improved Greece’s infrastructure, enhancing comfort and enjoyment.”

Nico Zenner of Travel Bound says his company’s sales of tours to Greece have increased nearly 30 percent over last year. “Greece has so much to offer-not only a rich culture and archaeological sites, but romance, beaches, relaxation and great Mediterranean food,” he says.

Part of the country’s appeal, Kazlauskas believes, is in its diversity. “While a religious traveler might want to visit Patmos, the artist traveler will be more interested in Rhodes, and the beachcomber will insist on heading over to Mykonos.”

Athens is Travel Bound’s top seller in Greece, says Zenner, followed by Santorini and Mykonos. “Not only did [Athens'] popularity increase as a result of the Olympics, but Piraeus Port is currently the largest passenger port in Europe,” he says. “Because we have been heavily promoting our pre- and post-cruise offerings, bookings for Athens have benefited.” In addition to visiting the iconic Acropolis, history buffs should make a point of strolling through the Plaka, the oldest section in the city.

Kazlauskas, however, says the islands are more popular with his company’s clients. “Most [people] only want to spend two or three days on the mainland and then venture off to the islands,” he says. “Mykonos is always popular, although Santorini, Rhodes, Crete and Patmos are very popular with tourists.” Personally, Kazlauskas prefers spending time in Rhodes.”It is not as touristy or crowded as Santorini or Mykonos, and has such incredible charm.”

From Athens, travelers can take day tours to Corinth, Cape Sounion (Temple of Poseidon) and Delphi, or try a cruise around the Saronic Islands. In Santorini, Travel Bound’s top seller is Fira Town, and in Mykonos, the top draws are Mykonos Town and Platos Yialos.

Trafalgar Tours’ Wiseman recommends several “undiscovered gems” that are worth visiting, including areas in the Peloponnese, Dimitsana, Stemnitsa, Lousios Valley, the mountains of Corinth, the Zagorochoria villages, Paxoi island, Koufonisia islands and Patmos island.

Central Holidays’ Koutsis recommends the islands on the Ionian Sea, such as Lefkas, Ithaka, Zakynthos (Zante) and the south coast of Crete. On the mainland, he prefers the western coast and the Chalkidiki peninsula in northern Greece. But, he adds, finding a good vacation spot isn’t difficult. “Greece has a coastline of over 8,000 miles, and one can encounter a beautiful beach just about anywhere.”

Where to Stay in Greece

We asked Marc Kazlauskas of Insight Vacations to recommend some hotels in popular tourist areas. Here are three of his picks in different parts of the country:

In Athens, Kazlauskas likes The Metropolitan, which has 374 rooms, including 10 Suites, 14 Executive rooms and one Penthouse suite in the heart of the city, with views of both the Acropolis and the Aegean Sea.

In Olympia, he chooses the Antonios, a four-star, 63-room boutique hotel with views of the valley where the earliest Olympic games were played millennia ago.

And in Delphi, check out the Amalia Hotel, which has 184 rooms, most of which have views of the mountains and the port of Itea.

Agent Advice

Bob Wieder, the self-described Cruise and Tour Guy, says Greece is a “very hot” destination for the coming years. “Greece advanced in popularity globally with the 2004 Olympics, and the destination is ideal for honeymooners and couples,” he says. “My younger clients [25-40 years old] request the Greek Isles for romance. They represent 60 percent [of my business]. The other 40 percent are older [50-70 years old], and they prefer the mainland arts, culture, ruins, history and museums.”

Wieder suggests visiting Greece in May or September-”the weather is [pleasant] without the crowds,” he says. “These are the best months, although August should be avoided, with many Europeans coming here to holiday. Also, the weather is quite hot, there are many lines and the beaches are crowded. Finding a reasonably priced hotel room during August can be difficult, as well.”

As for suggestions on which places to visit, Wieder says Santorini and Mykonos are favorites-”but don’t rule out the nightlife in Athens, and especially the Plaka area. The fun of a belly-dancing show coupled with Greek cuisine and ouzo make for a wonderful adventure. And don’t forget The Acropolis with surrounding museums and cultural events.

“Greek hospitality says it all,” he adds. “Greeks are a fun-loving, full-of-zest [people who] love their country.”

Source: travelagentcentral.com/etn
Image via passionet.com.au

Corfu and Zakynthos are two of the most beautiful islands of western Greece, famous for the beaches, the turquoise waters, the well-developed tourist resorts and the cosmopolitan lifestyle.
They project the obvious characteristics of a Greek summer: the sun and the sea.

However, behind this picture of vibrant tourist development, there are hidden little villages, rich in imagery and activities that enhance the authentic beauty of the island landscape.

We invite you to discover these different images with your stay at organic farms that support with consistency the concept of agrotourism.

In Corfu, the two farm houses “Roggia” and “The Little Farmhouse” are located at the north part of the island. They are simple farm houses situated in the calm scenery of olive groves that are prominent in the inland.
Here, you can learn all the details on the production of organic olive oil, taste fresh vegetables from the garden and get acquainted with animals that are part of the families. You can wander around the surrounding areas, walk through preselected paths, ride on horses or on bikes.

In Zakynthos, the two farm houses “Lithies” and the “Logothetis Farm” are located at the south part of the island that is the best point for exploration of beaches, villages and rural landscapes.

The big estates that surround the farm houses provide the opportunity for many rural activities, from fruit and vegetable picking to grape harvest. Olive oil, wine, honey and cheese are some of the local produce that you can taste and buy.

You will enjoy your time there with trekking, biking, and horse-riding activities. You can also discover the refuge of the kareta kareta turtles in the nearby beaches.

For more information:
www.guestinn.com

Each of the four luxurious pool suites features spacious terraces with breathtaking views of the volcanic caldera and the turquoise Aegean. Designed in bright Mediterranean colors with striking works by Greek artists, the suites have DVDs, CDs and Wi-Fi. The rate includes a traditional Greek breakfast of yoghurt and fruit, eggs, ham and cheese served on the guest’s private balcony, a bottle of Santorini wine and flowers upon arrival, newspapers, bathrobes, slippers, daily maid service and all taxes. All rates are based on single or double occupancy.

High up on a cliff overlooking the Aegean, offering a bird’s eye view of the 3,600-year-old caldera, Astra provides genuine Greek hospitality in a setting of simple elegance. Wildflower-filled paths and whitewashed staircases lead to the cozy reception area filled with books and artwork. The signature colors of the Cyclades are reflected in the sparkling infinity pool hanging 1000 feet above the turquoise sea and the roomy day beds draped in white linen. Astra’s day spa offers a full range of massages and facials. New last year, Astra’s restaurant serves delicious fresh fish and Santorinian specialties under the stars.

In May, it’s always sunny and the average temperatures hover around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. With the temperate weather and no summer crowds, visitors can relax in luxurious accommodations at a substantial savings.

The peaceful village of Imerovigli sits at the highest point on the rim of the caldera. Quaint white-cube houses are carved into the rocky cliff or line narrow cobblestone streets. The main town of Fira with its restaurants, cafes and clubs is 5 minutes by car or a 15 minute walk and the beaches of Perissa and Perivolas are a 20-minute drive.

For more information about Astra Apartments and Suites, go to www.astra.gr. For reservations, email astra-ae@otenet.gr or call 011-30-22860-23641.

One of the leading boutique properties in Santorini, Astra is offering a package that allows travelers to experience Greece like an insider during the country's most festive holiday. Astra's General Manager George Karayiannis will fashion individual itineraries for guests – from which village has the most exciting epithafios procession to where to attend midnight services and which restaurant serves the most delicious midnight feast – he knows all the best places. Then, on Easter Sunday, Astra's guests are invited to a multi-course feast of Greek specialties served around the hotel's infinity pool with the view for which Astra is famed. George may even let you turn the roasting lamb on the spit.

For Greek Easter weekend, April 18-20, Astra's "Magical Easter" package starts at about $960 for two persons and includes the traditional Easter lunch of spit-roasted lamb, kokoretzi, red eggs and Greek salad, a daily breakfast of homemade yoghurt, Greek honey, local cheese, ham and fresh bread served on the guest's private balcony, a bottle of Santorini wine upon arrival, daily maid service and all taxes.

High up on a cliff overlooking the Aegean, offering a bird's eye view of the 3,600-year-old caldera, Astra provides genuine Greek hospitality in a setting of simple elegance. Wildflower-filled paths and whitewashed staircases lead to the cozy reception area filled with books and artwork. The signature colors of the Cyclades are reflected in the sparkling infinity pool hanging 1000 feet above the turquoise sea and the roomy day beds draped in white linen. Consistently rated one of the top three on the island, this boutique hotel has a loyal following with guests returning year after year.
April in Santorini is always sunny with average temperatures hovering around 65 degrees Fahrenheit and can get up in the 70s.

Each of the 28 spacious suites and rooms are decorated in traditional island style with works by local artists. The complex has 16 domed-ceiling apartments and 12 luxurious suites – eight with private plunge pools or outdoor Jacuzzis. A day spa offers a full range of massages and facials. New last year, Astra's restaurant serves delicious fresh fish and Santorinian specialties under the stars.
The low season rate for a standard apartment is about $320, or €250 for two persons. Low and high season rates for superior apartments, two-bedroom apartments and suites range from about $385, or €300 to $1030, or €800. All rates are for one or two persons and include all taxes. Free high-speed Internet access is in all rooms and suites.

For more information about Astra Apartments and Suites, go to www.astra.gr For reservations, visit the website or call: 011-30-2286-23641.

With tourism being Greece's second biggest industry after shipping, Greek tourism leaders believe that the strike over wages by staff at the Acropolis is more detrimental to Greek's tourism industry. As it is, the global economic crisis is posing a great threat for sales of summer packages.

According to published reports, the protests have taken a heavy toll on Greece's second city, Thessaloniki, where more than 2,000 bookings have been canceled in the past week.

Meanwhile, as rioters and workers continue their protest for the 10th day, Greek President Karolos Papoulias underwent an emergency surgery. He was fitted with a pacemaker Monday and is reported to be recovering well amid the unrest that has crippled Greece.

On Wednesday, a general strike, which has been reported to include air traffic controllers, has halted flights to and from Greece, making the convergence of riots and workers’ demonstrations the worse crisis to hit Greece in recent memory.

Greek Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis has made an appeal to rioters and demonstrators. He said the government is determined not only to make citizens feel safe, but to support businesses that suffered damages through subsidies, loans, and tax-relief measures.

Main socialist opposition leader George Papandreou also appealed for an end to the violence that has gripped more than 10 Greek cities. “I appeal to all to show responsibility, restraint, and to end the violence that our country is experiencing these days,” Papandreou said at a press conference.

According to published reports, the opposition socialist party has overtaken the ruling conservatives in opinion polls and is now calling for an election.

Meanwhile, the civil unrest in Greece has given some governments a reason to issue a travel warning. The continuing possibility of civil disturbances and demonstrations throughout Greece, in the wake of the violent demonstrations that began last weekend and yesterday's general strike, were cited as reasons.

So far, the United States, Britain, and Canada have urged their citizens to exercise caution when traveling to Greece.

The US Embassy in Athens said: "We remind American citizens that even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and possibly escalate into violence. American citizens are, therefore, urged to avoid the areas of demonstrations and to exercise caution if within the vicinity of any demonstration. American citizens should stay current with media coverage of local events and be aware of their surroundings at all times."

The British Foreign & Commonwealth Office urged Greece-bound visitors to exercise "extreme caution." They advised travelers to buy travel and medical insurance.

Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada is advising Canadians to exercise a "high degree of caution" if visiting Greece. Canadians visiting Greece are warned to avoid all crowds and demonstrations, monitor local news reports, and follow the advice of local authorities.

The Greek Commerce Confederation has estimated the damage to businesses in Athens alone to be around US$259 million. Hotels were among the 565 establishments that rioters targeted.

(with wire inputs)

ABOUT FAIRMONT HOTELS & RESORTS
A leader in the global hospitality industry, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts is an extraordinary collection of luxury hotels, which includes iconic landmarks like Fairmont Le Château Frontenac in Québec City, Fairmont The Norfolk, Nairobi and London’s The Savoy, reopening in 2009. Fairmont hotels are one-of-a-kind properties where sophisticated travellers can discover culturally rich experiences that are authentic to the destination. Situated in some of the most exclusive and pristine areas in the world, Fairmont is committed to responsible tourism and is an industry leader in sustainable hotel management with its award-winning Green Partnership program. Fairmont’s portfolio includes 56 distinctive hotels, with plans to develop over 25 new properties in the coming years in destinations as diverse as Shanghai, Morocco and Anguilla.

Fairmont is owned by Fairmont Raffles Hotels International, a leading global hotel company with 91 hotels worldwide under the Raffles, Fairmont and Swissôtel brands. The company also manages Fairmont and Raffles branded Residences, Estates and luxury private residence club properties. For more information or reservations, please call 1-800-441-1414 or visit www.fairmont.com

ABOUT CORFU GARDENS S.A.
Corfu Gardens S.A. owns 26.5 hectares of land on the East side of Corfu Island, Greece and is a subsidiary of Austria-based Akrin Holding GmbH, which holds investments in European countries including Switzerland, Greece and Russia. The company's principal activities are hydrocarbon production and refinement in Western Siberia and Central Russia, property development and management in major cities throughout Russia and agricultural activities in Central Russia. The Corfu project, noted for its beauty and ideal location, is the company's first tourism venture.