Stunning Santorini

This island is a class act! Chic and sophisticated, with the most beautiful and dramatic sunsets I have ever seen. The island is volcanic and hence most of the popular beaches are of black coarse sand and pebbles. Kamari is a popular resort near the airport with a lovely promenade and great choice of bars and restaurants. Perissa is it's sleepy neighbour just around the headland linked only by a small boat (weather permitting).Oia is a quieter version of Thira. It's main attractions are the sugar cubed houses, blue domed churches and spectacular sunsets out to sea. I stayed at the Majestic Hotel in Thira, a very modern and minimalist property which I would highly recommend. All buses start and end in Thira. They seemed to run about every 30 minutes, radiating out in all directions to the populated areas. They were comfortable and always on time. Thira itself has no beaches as it is perched on the top of cliffs, giving it stunning views especially as the sun goes down. It is extremely popular with couples getting married or on honeymoon. Cruise ships regularly anchor in the sea below Thira and it's passengers have the choice of walking, a cable car or a donkey ride up to Thira town. There is a never ending choice of restaurants offering every type of cuisine and a good choice of bars and a few discos. There is a good variety of excursions with wine tasting and boat excursions being the most popular. I took a boat trip that went over to the volcano in the middle of the caldera where a guide took us up to the summit. It then sailed around the far side of the volcano to let us swim in the warm sulphurous waters. After stopping for lunch it sailed over to Oia before sailing back to Thira. If you are looking for an upmarket destination with limitless places to eat and away from the normal 'Bucket & Spade' brigade then Santorini is it. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!!