Santorini

After our first honeymoon stop in Mykonos, we flew to Santorini. We thought Mykonos was beautiful, but we were blown away by Santorini.

We spent 5 nights on the island in Oia. Two of the most popular towns in Santorini are Oia and Fira. If you are trying to decide where to stay, I highly recommend Oia. To me, there really is no comparison between the two.

Out to eat in Oia

• Melitini - dinner or lunch with water views; make a reservation for the rooftop

• Fino - we stumbled upon this new, trendy restaurant hidden within Oia town

• Pito Gyros - where the locals go for their gyros; try the Crazy Donkey craft beer that is brewed on the island

Stay

Without a doubt, the best decision we made was staying at Charisma Suites. Right on the edge of Oia and with sunset and caldera views, this hotel was like a dream come true. Every morning, breakfast of your choice is delivered to your personal balcony and every sunset hour coincides with champagne hour. Not to mention the cozy, cave-like rooms were the ultimate retreat after a day in the sun. We hardly wanted to leave the hotel.

Vasso and the rest of the staff catered to our every need, including dinner reservations and organizing our boat excursions for the week.

Explore

• Hike from Oia to Fira - this long hike might take you the whole day (we only hiked one way); but gives you a taste of all the towns Santorini has to offer

• Amouldi Bay - work off the vino with 300 steps down to check out the caldera views and enjoy lunch at one of the local tavernas; beware of the donkeys as you make your trek

• Sunset Cruise - spend a day sightseeing with the Santorini Yacht Club; a trip highlight

• Oia Town - there’s no such thing as a bad picture in Oia; wake up early to avoid the crowds