My favorite summer holidays
The summer has arrived, and for many, this means vacation time! But where shall we go this year? Choosing the perfect balance between relaxation, adventure, and culture seems increasingly challenging. That's why I've listed my favorite European summer destinations below.
Sorrento
Nestled in the stunning landscapes of Italy's Sorrentine Peninsula, Sorrento is a gem that captivates visitors with its breathtaking beauty and delightful offerings. During my stay in this charming town, I had the pleasure of experiencing the exquisite Grand Hotel Riviera, an oasis of luxury boasting direct access to the sea. The ambiance was splendid, although I found the hotel's restaurant a bit pricey considering the offerings.
Sorrento's allure extends beyond its lavish accommodations. The town boasts two ports: Marina Grande and Marina Piccola, adding to its coastal charm. Interestingly, the names of these ports are somewhat ironic, with Marina Grande being smaller and Marina Piccola larger in reality.
From these ports, I embarked on journeys to Amalfi, Capri, and Positano. Positano, while incredibly picturesque, felt overwhelmingly crowded and was scorching hot during the peak season. The influx of visitors arrived in a procession, but the stunning views compensated for the hustle and bustle. In contrast, Amalfi was a bit more serene, with additional shopping opportunities compared to Positano.
Capri, however, emerged as a highlight of my trip. Opting for an evening visit allowed us to escape the scorching daytime heat. The island exudes an air of sophistication, and an unexpected treat awaited us as a wealthy American kindly treated my mother and me to drinks. Something we still proudly brag about to family and friends.
All our excursions were organized through TUI, offering diverse experiences. The ferry ride to Capri was an adventure in itself, while the smaller boat tours to Positano and Amalfi were intimate, accommodating only a limited number of passengers and featuring refreshing swim stops along the way.
Sorrento is renowned for its lemons, a fact evident in the abundance of limoncello tastings and lemon-themed souvenirs, from handbags to swimwear. And who could resist the delectable gelato? With dining not included at the hotel, we explored numerous local eateries, discovering an array of delicious dining options. One standout recommendation is Da Emilia, a delightful fish restaurant nestled in the cozy confines of the Marina Grande.
From breathtaking coastal views to delectable local cuisine and enchanting excursions, Sorrento beckons with its Mediterranean allure and promises a memorable Italian escape.
Crete
When my friends and I decided to visit Crete, we chose the Elounda Palm Hotel, a cozy retreat located a 20-minute walk from the charming Cretan town of Elounda. Despite its small size, the hotel's staff was fantastic, and the included meals were delightful. While Elounda is a bit far from the larger cities of Crete, our excursions allowed us to explore the island extensively.
Our first adventure was a safari through the mountains of Crete, indulging in Cretan delicacies such as feta cheese, honey, and olive oil, each offering a delectable taste. Along the journey, we visited Zeus' cave. For those intrigued by Greek mythology, this might be a worthwhile stop, although not the most spectacular stalagmite and stalactite-filled cave, according to my opinion. During the tour, we also visited the Plane Tree of Krasi, a famous spot where the renowned Greek writer Zorbas found inspiration for his books.
Renting a car, we drove to the town of Agios Nikolaos, a mere fifteen-minute drive from Elounda. This larger town nestled by a lake amidst cliffs exudes a Saint-Tropez vibe. It's a place you shouldn't miss, boasting cozy restaurants, a charming harbor with a beach, and delightful shops. Did we pick up some swimsuits and dresses? Absolutely!
On our final day, we embarked on a boat trip with swimming stops and a delightful onboard barbecue; an excellent activity for water enthusiasts. Our route included sailing around the island of Spinalonga, historically known as the island of lepers. It's an option to visit the island, but it tends to get crowded and feels quite small.
The Palace of Knossos was a bit underwhelming for us, likely due to our high expectations. However, for enthusiasts of Greek history, it's still worth adding to your to-do list when in Crete!
The Greek hospitality we encountered was simply amazing, with incredibly friendly people everywhere we went.
More to come
These are not the only two vacations I recommend, I can think of dozens more. Keep an eye on my website because the next article will be about Madeira.
Thanks for reading and if you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact me.