Exploring Samos: A Hidden Gem in the Aegean Sea

Discover the Beauty of Samos

Samos, a small island in the Aegean Sea, is a place of stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Known for its lush landscapes, beautiful beaches, and ancient ruins, Samos offers visitors a unique blend of relaxation and adventure. In this blog post, we will explore the highlights of this enchanting island and why it should be on your travel radar.

Natural Wonders

The island of Samos is renowned for its diverse landscapes, ranging from mountainous regions to pristine beaches. Here are some of the most notable natural attractions:

• Mount Kerkis: The highest peak on the island, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.
• Potami Beach: A stunning beach known for its crystal-clear waters and scenic waterfalls.
• Votsalakia Beach: A popular spot for sunbathing and water sports.

Cultural Heritage

Samos is steeped in history and is the birthplace of the ancient philosopher Pythagoras. The island is home to numerous archaeological sites that reflect its rich cultural heritage. Notable sites include:

1. The Heraion of Samos: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ancient sanctuary is dedicated to the goddess Hera.
2. Pythagoreion: An ancient port town that showcases impressive ruins, including a theater and aqueduct.
3. The Archaeological Museum of Samos: A treasure trove of artifacts from the island's storied past.

Local Cuisine

No visit to Samos would be complete without indulging in its delicious local cuisine. The island is famous for its fresh seafood, locally produced wines, and traditional dishes. Be sure to try:

• Choriatiki: A classic Greek salad made with fresh vegetables, feta cheese, and olives.
• Seafood Souvlaki: Grilled skewers of marinated fish and seafood.
• Samos Wine: Renowned for its sweet dessert wines, perfect for pairing with local desserts.

Activities and Adventures

For those seeking adventure, Samos offers a range of activities that cater to all interests:

• Hiking: Explore the island's numerous trails, including the scenic route to Mount Kerkis.
• Water Sports: Enjoy windsurfing, kayaking, and snorkeling at various beaches.
• Cultural Tours: Join guided tours to learn more about the island's history and heritage.

Getting There

Samos is accessible by ferry from mainland Greece and other nearby islands. The island also has an airport with flights from various European cities. For more information on travel options, check out Samos24.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Samos is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and delicious cuisine. Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach getaway or an adventurous exploration of ancient ruins, Samos has something for everyone. Don't miss the chance to experience this beautiful island for yourself!

For more insights and tips on visiting Samos, visit Samos24.

Malta

Malta

Malta is one country that proves how great things really do come in small packages. A Southern European country set in the Mediterranean Sea only 50 miles south of Sicily, Malta is one of the smallest countries in the world, made up of only 122 square miles. However, despite being tiny, this Mediterranean country is the ideal get-a-way spot for travellers looking for a unique spot for a warm sunny vacation. 

A Look at Malta's History

Until it's independence from Britain in 1964, Malta was ruled by a succession of different powers over the centuries. The Phoenicians, Romans, Normans, Aragonese, Spanish, French and English all ruled over this tiny country at one time or another and left in their wake buildings, cultural beliefs, and cuisine which have all combined to make Malta an interesting and beautiful country. All the above, combined with the country’s warm climate and beautiful beaches, make for a place that most tourists fall in love with.

Transportation to and in Malta

Depending on where you live, transportation to Malta is actually very simple as you can choose plane or boat to get to this lovely country. And once there, you won't find transportation much of a problem either, as you can travel around the country using public transportation, rent a car, scooter or bicycle, take a taxi or travel by foot to many interesting places. 

Accommodations

Finding a place to stay isn't a problem either, as you can choose between hotels, villas and even apartments with cooking facilities. However, when planning a vacation to Malta, you may want to book your accommodation early as the best places are always the first to go, and you want to ensure that you find a place to stay close to the particular activities you want to engage in and the places you want to visit. 

Places to Visit

Although the entire country is worth visiting, one of the best places is St. Julian’s. This lovely fishing village has many charming old buildings worth seeing. Those include Spinola Palace which was built in 1688. There are also many activities for people of all ages to take part in.

The capital city of Valletta is well worth seeing as this beautiful city has many historical buildings and stone streets. One of Valletta’s main attractions is St. John's Cathedral because its stunning interior is filled with beautiful ornamentation, paintings, and marble tombstones. There is also a museum where you can learn more about the Cathedral and Maltese history.

Silema is a “must” on your vacation list if you love to shop. This town is located a short distance from Valletta and has several malls as well as number of restaurants and places to stay. If you are travelling with children, then you are going to want to plan a day or two in Mellieha. It is where Popeye the musical was shot and it’s a great place to enjoy a number of child-friendly activities such as boat rides and water slides, as well Popeye performances.

Activities

Naturally Malta has a number of beaches where you can enjoy swimming and other water sports. Horseback riding is also available in Malta, as well as cruises and a number of other activities for everyone to enjoy. There are also several beautiful gardens, picnic areas, and museums where you can spend a memorable day.

Cuisine

Because Malta's cuisine has been influenced by so many different countries over the years, diners can enjoy menu from all over the world. Pasta and pizza abounds, as well many fish dishes, roast beef and other delicacies. Food is plentiful and easily available almost anywhere.

If you want to try true Maltese cuisine, you might want to order Maltese soup made from local herbs, green peppers, tomatoes, artichokes and aubergines and served with crusty bread. Maltese cuisine also includes Lampuka, which is pie filled with fish, tomatoes, onions, parsley peas and cauliflower, all inside a crispy pastry. There is also Bragoli which is a delicious offering of thinly sliced beef, wrapped around a stuffing made up of minced meat, egg, and bacon.

New York City

New York (in English and officially New York City) is the most populous city of New York State and the second largest city on the continent. It is the center of the New York metropolitan area, which is among the largest urban agglomerations in the world. For over a century it has been one of the world's leading centers of commerce and finance. 

New York is considered a global city because of its global influences in media, politics, education, entertainment and fashion. The artistic and cultural influence of the city is the strongest in the country. In addition, it is the headquarters of the United Nations Organization, which makes an important point in international relations.

Dubai

Dubai generated headlines about the major building projects. During my visit in Dubai the early 2000s, all that was still under construction. It was almost surreal sight, like a science fiction movie, an entire city full of half-finished skyscrapers. The world had then a serious shortage of large cranes. I heard that 25% of the big cranes were there.


For those who have not visited Dubai: it is a city in the United Arab Emirates municipality in the Gulf. And it is just a magnificent resort.


Makes it a popular place that there is warm even in winter, when the resort places are scarce. Quite all, of course, it does not fit for everyone. If you want to spend "a beer garden holiday" or otherwise use a lot of alcohol, then you should redirect to Thailand or the Canary Islands. Alcohol is not banned in Dubai and is sold in restaurants and bars. You can bring some Alcohol to Dubai and then there are many quite excellent pubs. Alcohol is forbidden for Muslims in Dubai.


For moderate alcohol users Dubai is quite a good place. Alcohol is available, but you do not have to watch the drunkards. In the comfortable beach clubs you can drink a beer or you can enjoy  your own drinks on the hotel balcony. If you want some action, you may go to one of the many nightclubs in the city.


Getting Around in Dubai


By far the best way to move in Dubai is to take a taxi. Taxis are cheap and reliable. Drivers know English quite well and are polite. Easiest way to get a taxi is just stop a free taxi from the street.


Safety


Dubai is a lot of the world's safest places. Penalties for offenses are hard and the laws are harsh. Although Dubai have a huge number of migrant workers, so there are practically no unemployment. If a migrant worker does not work, then he should leave.

Emirate of traffic is quite dangerous in that local young people drive like crazy with fast and powerful cars. Petrol is cheap ...


Food


Dubai is a paradise of exotic dishes. There are ethnic restaurants probably from everywhere. And of course international fast food chains like McDonalds, KFC, Burger King is there.  Almost every shopping mall is the so-called "food court". You can take the food and go to a restaurant to eat in the middle zone. Family or group members may each be taken what they want: one enjoys a hamburger meal, another Chinese fast food, sushi for third one and fourth one enjoys Thai fried chicken


Shopping

Dubai is full of brilliant shopping centers. You need experience them by yourself: fountains, marble, beautiful decorations. Ibn Battuta shopping mall have different continents of the themes and decoration accordingly. Chinese territory, for example, have a large Chinese boat (picture). Emirates mall have a ski center and the amusement park Magic Planet. So honestly, you can ski indoors. Major shopping centers are located slightly outside the town. The center of the city's have few smaller shopping centers in different parts. A special place is also Dragon Mart (China Mex) with many small, uniform in size, Chinese shops.

To do, to see


Dubai does not have any at the ruins to watch. On the contrary, there are brilliant architectural gems. Indoors and outdoors. In the downtown there are an old renovated fortress and inside it there is a museum, Dubai Museum. For a history lover it is a tasty little snack. Two or three hours getting to know enough for most of the museum. It presents the 'old Dubai', its culture and commerce. Entry fee about a Euro for the whole family.

Currency


Dubai's currency is Dirham, known throughout the UAE Dirham (United Arab Emirates Dirham), abbreviated AED. One dirham is about 20 (Euro)cents, 27 US cents. Prices may be converted to Euros by dividing it by five. Travellers from the States divide it by four. Simple! 


Language


The official language of Arab Emirates are Arabic. In Dubai all street signs are in English and Arabic. English is important language in daily life. This is due to huge number migrant workers. Most of the migrant workers learn Arabic only as a few word and practical things will be handled in English. For tourists, this is a very good thing.


Clothes


Women should wear less revealing costumes. Although every now and then you can see bikini-dressed tourists in the city, you should have a little respect for local customs. Plain T-shirt is ok since the shoulders are hidden. Skirt or trousers is ok, as long as not too revealing. In Swimming beaches you can  wear a normal swimming suit. Bikinis are okay.


Beaches and Parks


Beaches in Dubai are quite stunning. Gulf water is always warm and rarely too stormy. Water is very salty and it "floats" comfortably. If the hotel does not have its own beach, usually the hotels have a transport service to the beach. In this case, it does not usually have entrance fee .Beaches are generally well-managed large-scale parks. Admission fee is generally quite low, approximate. one euro per person. Beach chair may be charged separately as well as use of the swimming pool.

Such a club like "beach-pool area" may seem a bit strange. The reason is that the public beaches do not really fit the Arab culture and  western tourists, are thus excluded from the eyes. For tourists, it offers a very comfortable and peaceful environment. Since the area is fenced and access is controlled, park areas are safe and you don't need to worry about thieves. Park areas can be very large, even hundreds of hectares. There might be numerous beaches and swimming pools in one area.

All this is a bit like forbidden fruit for local Muslims. Sometimes it sees a long white robe-dressed men walking on the beach remote eye glancing across the beach life. A few hundred meters from the beach there can be a luxury boat moored. Maybe they are just fishing...


Dubai's parks and beaches:

Jumeirah Beach Park, a beach. Entrance 5 dirham (1e). 12 hectares.
Al Mamzar Park, a park. Entrance 5 dirhams (1e). 90 ha. Wednesday women's day.
Creekside Park, a park. Entrance 5 dirhams (1e). 100 hectares. On Wednesday, women (and children) day. 
Mushrif Park, a park. Entrance 10 dirhams (2e). 125 (400) hectares.
Al Safa Park, a park. Entrance 3 dirhams (0.6 e). 64 hectares.
Umm Suqueim Park, a park. Thursday and Friday are women (and children) days.



Pros and cons

+ affordable prices
+ excellent English to survive in the world
+ best shopping
+ safe

-alcohol a bit expensive
- no significant historic places of interest