We were off to begin an unforgettable Greek island-hopping adventure, exploring four breathtaking destinations and experiencing some of the most exceptional luxury properties in Greece. With sun-drenched landscapes and endless Aegean views ahead, we were more than ready to dance through Greece like it was our own personal Mamma Mia sequel, ABBA soundtrack and all!
Crete
Our first stop was Crete, the birthplace of Zeus and the largest Greek island. It’s a captivating blend of ancient history, stunning natural beauty, and rich local culture.
Phāea Blue would soon be our little slice of heaven for the next 4 days. Located in the town of Elounda, a picturesque coastal town on Crete’s northeastern shore, it is known for its tranquil beauty, crystal-clear waters, and understated luxury. Nestled along the Mirabello Bay and facing the historic island of Spinalonga, Elounda offers a serene escape that blends authentic Greek village charm and world-class hospitality.
The best way I can describe Phāea Blue, is where timeless Greek hospitality meets conscious luxury. Tucked into Crete’s wild and rugged landscape. This hotel is a quiet retreat that feels both elevated and deeply grounded. With 47 bungalows, suites, and private villas, the property is intentionally intimate, designed to reflect the natural beauty of its surroundings and foster a deeper connection to place. Every detail speaks to a slower pace of travel and a more thoughtful kind of luxury.
Our first night at Phaea Blue set the tone for an unforgettable journey with an extraordinary welcome dinner at Phaea’s Farmer’s Feast Pop-Up. Set beneath the stars in the resort’s enchanting organic garden, the experience is a celebration of Crete’s deep-rooted farm-to-table ethos. We began the evening with a joyful “Yamas!” and a round of raki, Crete’s traditional (and famously potent) spirit, raising our glasses to the adventure ahead. What followed was a feast of the freshest local ingredients, thoughtfully prepared by Executive Chef Giannis Kalivretakis, who shared the stories behind each dish and spoke passionately about the importance of gastronomy in Cretan culture. Every bite honored the land, the season, and the soulful traditions that make this island so magical.
The following morning, our journey continued with a powerful and moving visit to Spinalonga Island, guided by the incredibly knowledgeable and engaging Georgina. As we crossed the short stretch of turquoise water by boat, we were transported not just in distance but in time. Spinalonga, once a Venetian fortress and later one of Europe’s last leper colonies, holds a profound place in Crete’s history. Our guide painted a vivid picture of the lives once lived within its fortified walls, stories of hardship, resilience, and human dignity that left a lasting impression on us all.
This visit wasn’t just educational; it was deeply emotional. Spinalonga offers an opportunity to connect with the island’s layered past in a way that’s both intimate and unforgettable. It’s an experience we believe every client staying in Elounda should make time for, it adds incredible depth and meaning to a stay in this peaceful, luxurious corner of Crete.
Following our time on Spinalonga, we were treated to a traditional Caique cruise, a classic wooden boat experience gliding through the crystal-clear waters of Mirabello Gulf. Surrounded by stunning coastal views, our group soaked in the serenity of the sea, shared laughter, and even dove in for a refreshing swim in the calm, pristine waters.
Our next two days in Crete were filled with flavor, tradition, and hands-on experiences that deepened our appreciation for the island’s culinary heritage. We began with a visit to the beautiful Vasilakis Estate, a family-run olive farm nestled in the hills outside Elounda. There, we were welcomed with open arms and guided through the fascinating process of olive oil production, from tree to table. We sampled their exceptional extra virgin olive oils, flavored balsamics, and olives. It was both educational and delicious, and a great way to understand how central olive oil is to everyday life in Crete.
That afternoon, we rolled up our sleeves for a Greek cooking lesson. We learned to prepare a variety of beloved Cretan dishes, guided by a local chef Nikos who shared stories and techniques passed down through generations. My personal favorites? The classic Greek Salad, bursting with sun-ripened tomatoes and creamy feta, and the Dolmas, grape leaves delicately stuffed with rice and herbs. The class focused on authentic island flavors and traditional recipes, leaving us full in every sense of the word: heart, soul, and stomach.
We were so lucky to be hosted by my dear friend Christina Krey, the Luxury Leisure Sales Manager at the property. Christina welcomed us with such genuine warmth and care, truly making us feel at home from the moment we arrived. She shared her deep love for Crete, gave us a glimpse into her world, and reminded us why hospitality is so much more than a profession, it’s a gift. By the end of our stay, we were all ready to move in permanently.
With our time in Crete coming to a close, we packed our bags with olive oil (and maybe a few Dolmas in foil) and prepared for the next leg of our journey: a ferry ride across the Aegean to the iconic island of Santorini. With hearts full of memories and bellies full of Greek goodness, we were ready for our next adventure.
Santorini
After a few unforgettable days in Crete, we set off for the iconic island of Santorini, just under three hours by ferry across the Aegean Sea. While the ferry boarding process was a bit of organized chaos (as Greek island travel often is), everything flowed smoothly, and the anticipation of arriving in Santorini made it all part of the adventure.
Known for its dramatic cliffs, whitewashed villages, and breathtaking sunsets, Santorini is one of Greece’s most celebrated destinations. Shaped by a massive volcanic eruption in ancient times, the island’s unique landscape centered around the flooded Caldera is as rich in history as it is in beauty.
Our next stop and our secret hideaway in Santorini was the stunning Mystique, a Luxury Collection Hotel. Carved into the volcanic cliffs of the Caldera, Mystique feels less like a resort and more like a hidden sanctuary suspended between sea and sky. It’s the perfect balance of luxury and authenticity an exclusive hideaway that still feels deeply connected to the raw beauty of the island.
Each of the 41 suites and villas offers panoramic views of the deep blue Aegean, many with private pools or jacuzzis that seem to float above the horizon. The design is organic and understated, blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings, while the service is warm, thoughtful, and discreet. It’s no surprise that Mystique is a favorite for honeymoons and romantic escapes, there’s a quiet intimacy here that’s rare to find.
One of the most memorable moments of our stay was our dinner at Lure Restaurant, perched at the very top of Mystique. With sweeping views over the Caldera, the setting was breathtaking, especially at night. We were graciously hosted by the lovely Nikoleta Straplaki, Complex Sales Coordinator at the Empiria Group, whose warmth and genuine hospitality made us feel immediately at home. Her passion for the property and for creating unforgettable experiences was truly felt throughout the evening.
Next, we made our way to what turned out to be one of the most delightful surprises of the trip, Vedema, a Luxury Collection Resort. Tucked away in the quiet, medieval village of Megalohori, this hidden gem feels worlds away from the more touristed parts of Santorini. Vedema has a soulful, authentic charm that’s impossible to replicate and felt like going back in time. Originally a 400-year-old winery, the property has been transformed into a serene, Cycladic-style retreat that feels both grounded in history and elevated in comfort. With 59 spacious suites and villas, each featuring a private terrace and many with jacuzzis or private pools, the resort offers the perfect blend of privacy and understated luxury.
We were hosted by the wonderful Apostolis Tigkelis, Director of Sales for Empiria Group, who brought such fun and energy to our visit. His genuine care, warm personality, and effortless hospitality made us feel not just welcomed, but celebrated and yes, he even made a TikTok with us! It’s these personal touches that make Vedema so memorable and truly one-of-a-kind.
One of the most enriching parts of our stay at Vedema was a guided wine tasting at the historic Canava Wine Cave, led by the knowledgeable and passionate Vasilis, Director of F&B. Tucked beneath the resort, the cave itself dates back centuries and was once part of the original 400-year-old winery that Vedema was built around.
Our guide walked us through thoughtful wine pairings, teaching us how different wines complement everything from local cheeses and olives to sweet desserts and salty bites. It wasn’t just a taste; it was a sensory experience rooted in place and tradition.
A highlight for everyone was the discovery (and unanimous favorite) of Assyrtiko, aka the wine that stole the whole trip. Native to Santorini and grown literally nowhere else in the world quite like this, Assyrtiko is what happens when grapes are raised in lava rock, sea breeze, and tough love. The vines grow low to the ground in little basket shapes to survive the island’s wild winds, and the result? A crisp, citrusy, mineral-packed wine with just the right amount of attitude. We all agreed: if we could’ve packed our suitcases with bottles of it, we would have.
Paros
From Santorini, we hopped on a two-hour ferry to Paros, excited to discover a new island and continue living out our Mamma Mia dreams, cue the sea breeze, sun-kissed skin, and spontaneous singing (maybe just in our heads). Upon arrival, we made a quick stop at the Empiria Lounge, a chic, exclusive space designed for guests to unwind. With comfy seating, cool drinks, and a calm atmosphere, it was the perfect spot to reset before heading off to our next home: the stunning Cosme, a Luxury Collection Resort. Arriving in Paros felt like discovering a secret the world hasn’t quite caught onto yet and the island has a laid-back, authentic charm.
Cosme, located just steps from the lively harbor village of Naoussa. Designed as a natural extension of the island, Cosme blends Cycladic architecture with worldly touches, creating a space that feels both refined and effortlessly relaxed.
From the moment we arrived, we were swept away by the resort’s chic simplicity, whitewashed walls, tranquil blues, and locally inspired art throughout the 40 stunning rooms and suites. Cosme’s private beach club and pool was our go-to for unwinding, with loungers nestled right along the crystal-clear Aegean Sea and the soft rhythm of the waves just steps away. Dining here was also a standout, Volta serves vibrant “Meditegrecian” flavors crafted by the talented Chef Yiannis Kioroglou.
We were incredibly lucky to be hosted by the amazing Evalia Kokkinaki, Complex Sales Executive for Empiria Group, whose warmth and hospitality were truly unforgettable. Evalia made us feel like family from the very start and even taught us how to dance the traditional Greek Zorba, a moment full of laughter, clapping, and just the right amount of chaos.
Exploring Naoussa was an absolute highlight, charming, walkable, and full of boutique shops, whitewashed alleys, and pops of bougainvillea at every turn. The town was easy to navigate and had the perfect mix of local charm and seaside style. Naturally, our group of girls couldn’t resist picking up matching cover-ups for our next boat day, because when in Greece, coordinated island chic is a must!
The next day, we set out on a catamaran cruise aboard the SilverStar III which was hands-down one of the highlights of the trip. Organized through Cosme, the experience took us sailing through the turquoise waters of the Aegean, past the stunning coastline of Antiparos, with a beautiful swim stop in a secluded cove. This should be a must-do when clients are visiting Paros! The crew was incredible, warm, attentive, and genuinely made us feel like VIPs from the moment we stepped aboard. It was one of those days where you pause mid-sail and think, “Is this real life?” And of course, in true form, we couldn’t resist making a TikTok to ABBA’s “Money, Money, Money” matching cover-ups, wind in our hair, because if you’re going to sail the Greek isles, you might as well do it in style.
Mykonos
We ended our stay in beautiful Paros and set off for Mykonos, hopping on a ferry that took about an hour. Excited to explore this iconic island, we were eager to discover the incredible world of the Myconian Collection. Our home for the next few days was the elegant Myconian Ambassador.
The Ambassador is steeped in family tradition and island heritage, offering an authentic Myconian experience with warm hospitality at its core. Nestled above the pristine Platis Gialos Beach on the south coast—known for its clear waters and soft sands, the resort blends luxury with a genuine sense of place. As a proud member of Relais & Châteaux, it features 67 beautiful accommodations and a villa, along with expert therapists at the Thalasso Spa, ensuring a truly relaxing stay.
As you may know, the Myconian Collection is a world of its own, a family-owned portfolio of 14 five-star properties, each with its own unique personality, but all sharing the same dedication to excellence. The properties are thoughtfully spread across the island:
- Mykonos Town is home to four stylish gems: Myconian Deos, Korali, Kyma, and Naia.
- On Ornos Beach, you’ll find Myconian O and the sleek, design-forward Kove, one of the newest additions to the collection.
- Over on Elia Beach, there are six distinct properties: Myconian Utopia, Avaton, Imperial, Royal, Villa Collection, and Panoptis Escape, each offering their own spin on elevated Mykonian living.
- Then there’s our home away from home, the Myconian Ambassador on Platis Gialos, blending beachfront bliss with timeless charm.
- And opened this June, the collection welcomes its newest member: Myconian Sunrise on tranquil Agrari Beach, a fresh retreat we can’t wait to see shine.
We were incredibly honored to be hosted not only by the four founding brothers of the Myconian Collection, each of whom plays an active role in this extraordinary brand but also by the amazing Kathryn Unciano, Sales Manager and dear friend. Kathryn welcomed us with open arms and made every member of the group feel seen and special. Her warmth and professionalism, paired with her deep pride in what the Myconian Collection represents, beautifully reflected the heart of what makes these properties so exceptional: a genuine passion for people, place, and unforgettable hospitality.
During our stay, we had the chance to take a guided walking tour of Mykonos Town with the wonderful Roxani, whose knowledge and storytelling brought the island’s rich history to life. She led us through the labyrinth of whitewashed alleyways, originally designed to confuse pirates, and shared how Mykonos evolved from a quiet fishing village into one of the world’s most iconic cosmopolitan destinations, all while retaining its Cycladic charm.
We visited the famous windmills that overlook the town, once used to grind grain and now one of Mykonos’s most photographed landmarks, and stopped at Panagia Paraportiani, one of the oldest and most unique churches in Greece, known for its asymmetrical beauty and blend of architectural styles. Roxani’s passion for the island and its stories added depth and meaning to every step.
The End of our Journey
This truly was a trip of a lifetime, and I feel incredibly grateful to have been part of it. From the dramatic landscapes of Crete, to the romantic glow of Santorini, the laid-back charm of Paros, and the vibrant energy of Mykonos, each island offered its own unique magic. But what made this journey even more special was the amazing group of advisors I had the joy of traveling with, supportive, hilarious, and always down for an adventure.
And let’s be honest… it wouldn’t have been complete without a little ABBA soundtrack in the background. Mamma Mia forever, and we have the TikToks to prove it.
Greece effortlessly blends rich history, breathtaking scenery, warm hospitality, and a culinary scene that’s hard to beat. Whether your clients are looking for a romantic escape, cultural exploration, relaxing beach time, or a glamorous getaway, Greece delivers it all, and then some. This was more than just a trip, it was an experience filled with heart, connection, and unforgettable moments.
