Grecian Holiday
Introducing three of my favorite finds from our recent vacation in Greece.
Oh, I how I missed adventure. Waking up in a different country, a full day of exploring ahead of me. The sights, sounds and smells of a new culture to experience. Another reminder of how vast the world is but also how small—of the similarities we share and what we can still learn from one another.
We recently spent 10 days in Greece visiting Messinia, Athens and Santorini. These were easily some of the most beautiful places I have ever been, and the long dinners with friends and open sea fed my heart and soul. Everywhere we went we were welcomed warmly and left knowing we would be back as soon as we could.
This week, I’m sharing three picks from our Grecian holiday—two to help you experience a bit of Greece wherever you are and one place to lay your head should you get the chance to visit this amazing country.
Yamas!
1. Amitis Eau de Parfum by The Naxos Apothecary (€80)
When you find the right scent, you just know. The notes hit your nose and immediately trigger a memory or feeling, transporting you somewhere else and lifting your mood. I spotted The Naxos Apothecary on our drive into Athens from Messinia. Once inside, I smelled every one of their gorgeous perfumes, all inspired by the island of Naxos. My pick, Amitis, has top notes of pear and spearmint along with orange flower, rosemary, sea foam and sandalwood. The shop also carries other Greek beauty brands as well as nutritional and personal care products.
2. Devotion Ella Embroidered Cotton Mini Dress (£190)
Too hot or too cold, shapewear rolling down…nothing is worse than being uncomfortable when you’re supposed to be having fun. This dress, however, is the most comfortable thing I’ve ever worn to a wedding. Lightweight yet intricately embroidered, it will keep you cool and allow for easy movement and plenty of feasting. Created by Athina Parnasa, the Greek designer behind Devotion, her signature Ella dress is available in a variety of colors and can be dressed up or down with wedges or flat sandals. I’m planning to grab the maxi version for next summer.
3. Perianth Hotel (2, Limpona Street, Athina 105 60)
Finding a place to stay in a big city can be intimidating. The Perianth Hotel was the ideal respite after a full day of wandering through Athens’ narrow, winding streets and incredible ruins. The rooms have minimal modern decor in soothing tones of sage and rose. We enjoyed our breakfast on our balcony each morning overlooking the shops, restaurants and trendy bars of Agias Irinis Square. There is also a beautiful bar and rooftop to enjoy. The staff were friendly and helpful at every turn and—bonus—the late-night room service menu includes delicious milkshakes.
Something to think about …
How do you consider historical sites when you visit them? When we were touring the Acropolis, I saw a guard stop a man who was actually trying to carve out a piece of it to take home. It was such blatant disrespect for this beautiful site, the people working to preserve and restore it and the country whose history it defines. The world—and all its treasures—is there for all of us to enjoy, so be good to it.