

Manousakia Flowers. We found them at Chania’s local food market. They smell heavenly.
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It’s been a while since the last time the Greek Tourism Board in collaboration with Austrian Holidays organised a press trip to the Greek islands. Fortunately we got back on track, and in the middle of October, a little before the summer season ends for good, a group of journalists and I flew from Vienna to Diagoras International Airport in Rhodes island on a press trip organized by the Greek Tourism board and Austrian holidays. It was a short trip, but we had a wonderful time. These are my photos.
For anyone who cannot make its mind, has doubts and is not sure whether a trip to Rhodes in October is a good idea (weather-wise) let me tell you this: it is a very good idea. I still remember the moment I stepped into my hotel room, went straight forward to the balcony to check the view and saw people swimming in the sea. It’s good that I witnessed this with my own eyes, so that I know where to fly to next October. For when I wish to catch the last rays of summer sun, I will make sure to check the direct flight from Vienna to Rhodes island with Austrian holidays.
Rhodes is the largest island of Dodecanese. It is situated at the crossroads of the two sea routes of the Mediterranean, between the Aegean Sea and the coasts of the Middle East.
Throughout its long history, Rhodes was inhabited by different civilisations who left their mark on all aspects of the island’s culture: art, language and architecture.
Rhodes is world-renowned for its history and monuments. It is also a blessed land with long beautiful beaches and a rich underwater environment.
Photos of Lindos, known as the most beautiful village in Rhodes island.
Paraga Traditional Greek Restaurant, Chatzikelis restaurant
We spent the last day of this press trip in Symi island. We went to Symi for just one day. What a beautiful day that was it! And so much laughter! I had a swim in Pedi, a small traditional fishing village. And afterwards, we had a wonderful lunch in an amazing beachfront taverna. This lunch felt like it was our way to say farewell to the Greek summer for 2021. Tip: If you go from Rhodes to Symi, it’s worth staying longer.
A THANK YOU NOTE
I would like to thank wholeheartedly the Greek Tourism Board, and Austrian holidays for inviting me to join the press trip, the Municipality of Rhodes and Hotel Mediterranean for the warm hospitality and for the amazing room with the front sea view. Also, many thanks to the Deputy Mayor Mr. Nikitas Gryllis for one more welcome to Symi island!
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Disclaimer: Press trip
At the end of August this summer, I was lucky enough to spend five wonderful days at Kinsterna hotel in Monemvasia. These are my photos.
The Kinsterna Hotel is a Byzantine-era rural mansion, which was lovingly and superbly restored with great respect to its long history. Moreover, all crops and activities that took place in the past on the premises have been revived, so the mansion to be self-sufficient.
Today, the estate produces its own wine, extra virgin olive oil and table olives, tsipouro, bread, marmalade and other fruit preserves, soap and much more.
Breakfast under ancient olive trees
The mansion’s long history dates back to the Byzantine era. The manor’s architectural and morphological features testify to the building’s Byzantine, Venetian and Ottoman heritage and identity. The earliest known owner was Ibrahim Bey, probably one of the local Ottoman landlords who signed the delivery of Monemvasia in 1821.
The manor was lived in until the late 1970’s by the “Lady of Monemvasia” Lina Kapitsini. The main objective of its restoration was the maintenance of the original architecture using traditional building techniques, old and local natural materials.
Moustalevria, a traditional Greek kind of pudding made of grape must mixed with flour and boiled until thick.
Impressive river-like swimming pool with private relaxation areas
Interesting activities such as horse-back riding, cycling, hiking at the Byzantine paths, handmade soap making, wine and olive oil tasting highlight the guest’s experience.
Table in the tavern Linos
Book your accommodation at Kinsterna Hotel here.
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*Disclaimer: My stay at Kinsterna Hotel was hosted but all words, comments and thoughts in this post are my own. This post may also contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you make a purchase through the links which comes at no cost to you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for using my links.
Monemvasia castle, one of the most romantic and historical destinations in Greece
Where to stay in Monemvasia castle: experience a truly unique stay at the highly acclaimed Kinsterna Hotel. This medieval castle town is located just ten minutes by car from Kinsterna hotel.
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This summer I was lucky enough to find myself for the second time in Hydra island. These are my Hydra photographs. I hope you like them!
Check out my Hydra photographs from my first visit in this island.
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