• Overcrowded -- no cruise boat tourists, no jumbo jets, and you get the beaches all to yourself!
  
  
• Rainy/Cloudy -- For certain months of the year. -- That means few clouds, lots of sunshine and little rain (and even that, mostly at night!). Parts of the Aegean Greek islands are very rugged and dry!
  
  
• Racial tension -- the people here are so warm, the smiles genuine. Unlike many European countries, the land was not rich enough to support the Greeks themselves, let alone immigrants from other parts of the world.
  
  
• Crime -- you're safe, no matter where you are, or when. I once went to Pothia in an open topped car and left my mobile phone and wallet (full of cash and credit cards) on the seat for two hours. When I returned, they were still there. Of course, don't push it. I definitely wouldn't do this in one or two of the cities and towns of the larger islands.
  
  
• Burger King -- no chains, no franchises. There just isn't the population to sustain their presence on the smaller islands. However, one or two of the larger Aegean Greek islands are now opening restaurants such as McDonalds. I think it's a shame, but I guess that's what they call progress. And if you don't like chains, don't worry -- you'll never eat better than you do in the Isles.
  
  
• Shopping -- oops. The only drawback. There are very few really nice shops. But no problem -- when I need to shop, another larger island is quite often only a ferry ride away.

Gentle seas to swim, astoundingly beautiful beaches for relaxation, reflection, contemplation - snorkeling, reading, listening to music, beach games, jogs and picnics. The pinnacle of gastronomic delights from hundreds of dining experiences, sometimes presented by world renowned and award-winning local chefs; otherwise, visit local beachside barbecues, mouthwatering grills and popular tavernas. Resorts and independent spas offering the latest in spa and wellness facilities, services and treatments. Unhurried, uncomplicated and easy to explore the islands invites bike tours and hiking excursions; plus a myriad of other activity choices. Time to think of nothing more than choosing what you'd like to do for the day. Maybe a day of site seeing or a tour of the islands museums and art galleries perhaps? Art galleries featuring original oils, pastels and watercolors; fine wood and metal sculptures; driftwood tables, ceramics, porcelains and hand woven lace. Museums with exciting artifacts detailing the Aegean Greek islands' history from its beginning to the present. Choosing the evening's dining pleasure based simply on your mood - a romantic, candlelit dinner? A convivial pub? A beachside bistro? No lines. No hassles. Visitors to Aegean Greek islands are met by caring, friendly and welcoming inhabitants, and are normally embraced as friends quite quickly. Property owners, whether of five-star luxury resorts or our charming escapes, apartment hotels, villas and beach club accommodation, value their guests and strive to ensure that holiday makers return to their homes and work fully rested and restored, in body, mind and spirit . It is this very nurturing and graciousness that has set the Aegean Greek islands apart from many other holiday destinations in the European Community and other parts of the world. It is one of the common answers, in varying words, that you'll receive when asking of our past visitors -- "Why the Greek islands" The people. The people make a huge contribution towards people's thinking of the Greek isles, but nevertheless, it's probably the natural inherent beauty of the islands that brings thousands of us to its shores. Of course, beauty is only 'skin deep' and their is a lot more beneath the surface, so for those who would like to know a little more, you can go to the Aegean Greek islands facts sheet.

What brought me to the islands was the fact that whichever island you travel to, and wherever you are on that island, you are never very far from water. It is a very reasonable expectation to find a beach for solitude, if that's what you would like. Conversely, if you need an action beach with access to lots of water activities...well that's also available.

I have learnt over the years that the Greeks are a very sophisticated race of people, despite what you see. Their priorities seem to be in the right place. Family and loved ones are 'treasured' and their is an abundance of 'respect for each other', something which, I am afraid to say, has left the country in which I was born.

It's very different from living in the UK, and I would imagine a lot of other countries also, you can find peace and tranquility here, whilst at the same time, still have a lot of FUN...just like the islanders.

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