Greece Thera

Thera

Ancient volcanic Aegean island, known for the Minoan eruption and stunning sunsets, now called Santorini.

Tips from the community

Greece has that special something. Get lost in the winding seaside streets of Oia or Thera, look out at the expansive Aegean sea, explore the hidden alleyways — any keen adventurer will find something do while on this island. But like anywhere else, Santorini is not without its drawbacks. While walking along a dusty road, weaving between small buildings, the smells of lamb and fish making my mouth water, I became aware that I was being followed. Strangely enough, I felt no immediate danger. There were a few locals along the road, and I assumed the man behind me was simply heading in the same direction. But when I crossed the street, the man called out to me, a smile on his face, and asked me for directions. Unassuming, I told him that I didn’t know the area, and his response was, “I’m Egyptian.” Um…okay? Good for you! I just smiled at him, said something like “oh…” and attempted to turn away. The man spoke up again: “Can I pay for sex?” Oh. Ohhhhhhh. It was then that I realized he had mistaken me for a prostitute. Perhaps you have been privy to the harassment and catcalls from the occasional onlooker. We get it in our home countries too, right? But Black female travelers especially may encounter the stereotype of being mistaken specifically for a “streetwalker” while abroad. And this assumption usually didn’t change until someone realized I was American. It could get incredibly uncomfortable, especially when you’re staring longingly off into the middle distance only for some guy to come up and ask you for sex. TIP: Stay at Luna Suites in Pyrgos. The views are stunning, and for a lesser cost than other boutique hotels in the area. Breakfast is included! Pyrgos itself is a beautiful location in Santorini; the maze-like structure hides many shops and restaurants that other tourists aren’t privy to! For an even cheaper stay, and if you don’t mind a bit of a walk to the nearest town, try Villa Manos in Karterados, Santorini. The couple who owns the hotel is lovely, and the entire staff will make the place feel like home. The out-of-the-way location also makes it feel like you’re on your own private island. Try a cooking class and wine tasting and book a moderately cheap sunset yacht tour to really feel sexy in Santorini.

thegoddess_pallas 3 years ago

Souvlaki! Tzatziki sauce! Cliffside homes with sky blue rooftops! When we say Santorini, you’re likely to get that picture-perfect image in your head (perhaps due to the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants). We can’t say you’ll get away from the tourists here, but it’s 100% worth it to see one of Greece’s most sought-after islands. Here you’ll have views of the deep lapis-colored sea wherever you go, whether that’s from the back of a bumpy ATV ride or a swanky honeymoon suite.

sarahlempa 3 years ago

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