Santorini, Greece

Monday, November 15, 2010

We have been so excited to share our stay in the land of the gods--Greece. We didn't spend anytime in Athens but headed to the most beautiful island first, Santorini. As we drove up a steep set of switchbacks in a packed van, I couldn't help but gawk out the window at the water getting further away below us and the ferry boat becoming toy-sized. We tumbled along on the side of a cliff, which was formed by a volcanic eruption thousands of years ago. Since we arrived at night, we had to anxiously wait for the next day to get views of the island and the Aegean Sea.

The following morning we were nearly blinded as we stepped out of our hotel room. The buildings are so white it hurts to look at them. Rows and rows of bright white blocks. Many had painted their doors, trims, and shutters bright blue, the color of the clear skies. Outside every front door stood neat potted plants and cacti, the clay pots often cemented down so the wind wouldn't take them. We wandered around a maze of narrow stone streets and painted steps that connected the houses. The buildings of the city are clustered tightly on top of high, ragged cliffs that dropped sharply into the sea below. We were not expecting such breathtaking views. Restaurants trying to lure in tourists advertise "sunset views" on their signs. We chuckled to ourselves because you can get an excellent look at the sunset [and more] from just about anywhere along the sidewalk that lines the cliff. It didn't take us long to agree that this must be one of the most beautiful places on the planet.

During the ancient times, Santorini was in the shape of a circle. The volcano’s enormous eruption destroyed the center of the island and caused it to sink, creating today’s caldera. It is now in the shape of a crescent moon. The volcano is a small island next to Santorini which can be visited on daily boat tours. The first eruption took place around 1500 BC and the last in 1956, though the volcano is still active today. Some believe that the destruction of Santorini is related to that of the mythical Atlantis.  

Thus far, Santorini has been our longest stay in one city—10 days. There’s something about the beautiful island that stops time and relaxes. We spent many days just relaxing around home, enjoying the quaint city streets and views. Our hotel wasn’t fancy, but it became like home, thanks to the hospitality of the owner, Giorgio. We got into a routine of waking up way too late (even though we set an early alarm daily), walking around town, blogging in the afternoon, snuggling up to a movie on our laptops, and drinking chamomile tea with honey in bed every evening. Maybe it was the sudden weather change. The season seemed to transition from summer to autumn in the time we were there. One of the first days we were blessed with 85 degree weather and actually laid out on the roof lounge chairs in our swimsuits. Towards the end of our stay, we experienced insane wind and thunderstorms. The wind howled loudly even through our closed windows all through the night, and it made sense to us why the island is dotted with old windmills. 







28 comments :

  1. One of my fave photographers, Sarah Rhoads, recently posted several images from a recent trip to Santorini---now seeing your photos I'm adding Santorini to my list of places to see. What a beautiful city - just amazing views from, it looks like, everywhere! I love the way all of the various shades of blue pops off the bright white.

    (Julie can I ask what type of sandals you're wearing in the photo nearest the top? I'll be moving overseas soon (to India!) and have been trying to find a pair of fashionable but comfy sandals)

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  2. Kay, you're smart for thinking ahead. The sandals are from Cathy Jean, but the furthest thing from comfortable when walking a lot! I've been wondering the same thing. Ive been wearing my Toms a lot because they're comfy and cushy and not bright stand-out tennis shoes.

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  3. Wow! The scenery looks surreal!

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  4. Ah, my dream vacation. It is so, so beautiful. It makes me want to move there and switch all my clothing to linen, white & navy stripes.

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  5. Beautiful, beautiful photos.
    And I love your text too.
    Makes the photos more 'real'.
    I'm getting itchy feet.

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  6. Thanks so much for responding Julia (and whoops for calling you Julie! sorry). I've been thinking about getting a pair (or two of Toms)...might be the way to go....thanks!

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  7. Well, I'm sold. I'm saving up my pennies for a trip to Greece ASAP.

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  8. It's hard to find comfy but stylish shoes for traveling....These pictures are beautiful!

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  9. Fantastic photos! I've always wanted to visit Greece (and Italy) I'm loving your pictures, they're gorgeous!

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  10. Julie,
    This place is beyond words.
    I'm inspired to visit Greece after I watched Mama Mia but your photos made me wanna fly now and be with u guys :D

    IN LOVE, IN LOVE, IN LOVE

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  11. these photos are so beautiful i want to weep! when i was in greece this summer i made it to rhodes. but alas, not santorini. next time!

    i'm a bit swamped in homework right now, but i'll email you some ist. suggestions when i get the chance! :)

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  12. Oooh, I hope you used good, Greek μέλι to sweeten your tea! Love your photos, they are fabulous. I think they are the best photos I have seen of Santorini; you capture the fantastic blues and white very well.

    P.S. Eat some iç pilav and mercimek çorbası for me in Turkey!

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  13. Your quip about the Restaurants trying to lure in tourists with 'sunset views' made me chuckle...so funny! Your blog is a huge inspiration, thank you for sharing your experiences.

    Will

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  14. Looks lovely.

    I am in love with both of your work :)

    Little bit of happiness whilst im working away in my office :) xx

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  15. Been trying to convince my husband a trip to Greece is worthwhile - hopefully these photos will do the trick!

    The photos look great - what camera and lens do you use?

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  16. I just love the idea of your blog and your outstanding pictures so soft and beautiful!

    I also have a travel blog and hope you'll be able to drop by!

    Hugs from Spain and nice trip, I'll follow your adventures.

    Susana.
    www.vuelo-directo.blogspot.com

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  17. Absolutely gorgeous! My fiance and I are planning on going to Greece for our honeymoon next September. Any recommendations on where to stay or eat?

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  18. Awesome pictures taken by awesome photographers. Fabulous job You guys.

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  19. This set is amazing,that island looks so beautiful.. All the white buildings make it look heavenly

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  20. You make such a lovely couple together, so beautifully in love.This 6 months honeymoon seems like a dream, came true. Safe trips and lots of joy! Warm hugs from Romania!

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  21. These are absolutely INCREDIBLE. thank you for sharing these and your love of each other is so evident.

    we just got back from 8 months in switzerland. right after we got married too.

    I can't wait to follow along.

    xo

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  22. I have always wanted to travel to Greece. Your photos are heavenly!

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  23. Your photos are to die for!!! Everything is so darn dreamy :)

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  24. your sharing is inspiring, photos are very nice. also, interested in what travel camera you are using, we are planning a europe vacation next year, and i do not want to lug my dslr over. thanks again for sharing all this

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  25. I'm wondering if you used a tilt lens or a lensbaby for some of the shots or if it's post processing? thanks! Really great work guys - enjoy your travels!

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  26. This is where I'm dying to go! Excited to show my husband these pics! Thank you for sharing them with us! You make the world seem more beautiful through your lens.


    Pearl

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