Ulusaba : Trip of a Lifetime

June 15, 2017 Allison Graham

Some of the highlights from my incredible trip to South Africa

Red Frog Beach: Bocas del Toro, Panama

May 24, 2016 Allison Graham

If you are an active traveler looking for an adventure with nature, Bocas del Toro in Panama might be your spot. It's known for world class surfing just south of Costa Rica in the rainforest. (We were there when they were filming an East Coast professional!)

As long as you aren't afraid of getting a little wet-this is a great part of the world (It is in the rainforest.) Wildlife, Surfing, Swimming, Fishing, and Zip-Lining: this is an adventurists dream... also perhaps a photographers.

We spent our Christmas at the Red Frog Beach Resort and rented a house overlooking the ocean, with a private pool, and hired a chef. This might seem over the top, but it actually wasn't . It was part of the reason for choosing it. The cost of renting a house for the week ended up being less expensive than staying at a 4 star hotel on a different caribbean island.

While saying that, if you are looking to go on a surfing trip and want to keep accommodations to a minimum--I suggest the Red Frog Bungalows. (They have surfing packages as well.) It's fairly easy to get to as well. We flew into Panama City the night before and ventured out in the city then took a skipper plane up to Bocas del Toro.

Breakfast at the Red Frog Beach Resort was included and enjoyed on the beach at the Punta Lava Bar. To get around the Island, we opted for some golf carts.

Now, I've come to be "little-miss-Steve Irwin".. ok maybe not that good, but I am fairly lucky at spotting wildlife. On the way to breakfast, I heard rustling in the bushes to my left.. so I pulled over to find monkeys peeling and eating bananas.

You would think they would've scattered, but perhaps realized I was not a threat. One of the monkeys actually enjoyed my company and decided to put on a show. I watched as he peeled the bananas and ate his breakfast.

Next, which might be even more crazy. Finding a sloth in a tree! Now, this might be more impressive, because unlike monkeys--they do not rustle the leaves, they barely move. I was driving slowly on my way to the beach after lunch. I kept looking up in the trees hoping to find wildlife-to my enjoyment, I did just that. A Sloth was sunning himself on the top of the tree.

Ok... So when I said the last finding was impressive. This one might take the cake.. to the extent the locals said they never see the sloths come this close. I didn't want him to touch me, because I didn't want my germs to hurt him (or vice versa) but he kept grabbing towards my camera, attempting to take my Red Sox hat off my head.

Now, if this were a wildlife tour, you would say "yeah, I get it ... pretty cool," except it wasn't a tour, this was just walking around the island. If you are like me and want to find sloths, take photos, and really embrace the island-then you too will find Red Frog amazing. Believe me, it is worth it.

The resort is called Red Frog for a reason; there are tiny red frogs in the rainforest (do not touch, some might be poisonous, also it's not nice.) they are microscopic. Don't let my photo fool you, I had my legitimate camera with me on this trip, and I was very quiet not to disturb him. They are beautiful frogs with vibrant color.

Red Frog, most can be found near the spa

Looking for more activities? Well perfect, because besides fishing, surfing, and swimming there is zip-lining, right on the island. They pick you up right in the lobby and drive on up into the heart of the rainforest. My brave hubby even did this, which proves how safe it is. He is scared to death of heights. He was the champ of the day for doing this--knowing my sister and I were dying to do it.

A few day trips I suggest:

Starfish Beach: Whether you are staying at Red Frog Beach or another resort you can request boat charters from the taxi drivers. (yes, the taxi's I'm referring to are all boat taxis.. they are the same you would take to town.)

Starfish beach was the one excursion I was really looking forward to. It was worth it. We hired a taxi to take us to Starfish Beach, then snorkel on the way back, and finished by leisurely drinking at the Blue Coconut.

Starfish beach is named after all of the starfish found here. You will dock your boat right on the beach then walk into the clear waters to find them. It is not ok to touch the starfish which is why I am not showing them on this blog.

Fishing Expedition: The boys went fishing, do expect "old-school" fishing though, they were hand reeling in the line. Either way they had a great time, minus a mini rainstorm!

Blue Coconut: This spot is great and I highly recommend. It's a bar and restaurant in the middle of the water between Red Frog Beach and town. Great menu and also fun spot to hang out in the sun. There is snorkeling gear as well as hammocks off the docks.

The Town of Bocos: Fun restaurants and some shops. We actually played "Secret Santa" when in town. We picked names and had a budget on what to spend on our gifts, *only able to shop from the stores in town. A few nights out of the week we opted to head to town for dinner instead of our in house chef. We had a great time.

For people looking for a nightlife there are definitely some spots to check out. Right off of the docks in town there is a spot called, Aqua Lounge, this is spot to go to at night. There is a DJ, multiple bars, swings into the water: it's the epitome of a club in the islands.

Surfing: I highly recommend going to the beach at Red Frog and asking for Scott, he's the best. The Red Frog Bungalows is the go-to spot for surfers.

If you are looking for a new part of the world to check out and love to be active, Boca del Toros is the spot. For a bit of luxury: stay at Red Frog Resort, but if you would like more of a rustic stay then definitely stay at Red Frog Bungalows.

On our last day we flew back to Panama City. We were able to see the Panama Canal which is pretty fascinating then found a restaurant with a pool to enjoy a full day of sun! Come back soon to see my quick trip in Panama City!

Until Next Time, Safe Travels!

Tell my boss I'm not coming back: Bermuda

April 25, 2016 Allison Graham

Planning my trip to Bermuda was a lot of fun: looking at the photos, scoping out where to stay and obviously the anticipation. .. but the real fun part happened when I actually got to take the trip!

Coral Beach Club, View from 2 Bedroom Cottage

I was overwhelmed by how beautiful Bermuda is and also how convenient it is to get to from New York. It's only an hour and 30 minutes from Newark, so going for a long weekend is totally doable.

The best time to go is May-September. Keep in mind, September and October can be the best time to go, but it is also Hurricane Season: so it may be a last minute trip based on weather patterns.

The first night was spent in Hamilton at the Fairmont Hamilton Princess. They had a gorgeous infinity pool overlooking the harbor. They've recently opened a great new bar and restaurant called Marcus'. If you plan to come to Bermuda for business, you may stay in Hamilton for the convenience and if so there are a few nice spots in town.

Infiniti Pool at Fairmont Hamilton Princess

Restaurants to try: Harry's, Pickled Onion, Swizzle Inn, Red Steakhouse

We stayed on the other side of the island the last few nights and it was spectacular. If you know someone who is a member at the Coral Beach Club, I highly recommend having them vouch for you to stay. It's understated beauty. Nothing is over the top, but everything is beautiful. This is the spot if you play tennis as well. They have two levels of courts, so bring your tennis whites! If you don't know a member, don't fret: the Elbow Beach Club is right next door.

If you have the chance, eat at the Long Tail restaurant at Coral Beach Club. You will have fabulous views of the turquoise ocean. Wear a classic Bermudian Navy Blazer with slacks and you will be good to go.

When you are in Bermuda, do not miss Horseshoe Bay Beach! The fine, pink sand is breathtaking. I recommend climbing to the top of the cliff. There are two peaks, and it is visually worth walking up the the peak of both. You will have a great birds eye view of the beach and great photo op. To make things easy as well, there is a Fairmont Southampton close by.

After, take a stroll to the other end of the beach, you will see plenty of caves and hidden gems. Make sure to look closely at the sand to witness the "pink coral" blended in, creating a pink tint to the sand.

There are several gorgeous beaches to check out, but depending on the length of your trip: Horseshoe Bay is a must. Just make sure to avoid the Man o' War Jellyfish: they hurt like crazy.

Other things to check out are the Crystal and Fantasy Caves, located 6 minutes from the airport. The tour takes about 30 minutes each, you can opt to just see one as well. They were discovered 100 years ago by two teenage boys playing cricket. They jumped into the caves while exploring and witnessed this amazing natural phenomenon. The water from above crystalizes in the caves creating long, protruding points from the top of the cave. What is even more fascinating, is that it takes 100 years to grow one inch. *(Recommend if it's a cloudy day or on your way to the airport)

Bermuda will be hosting America's Cup in 2017, so if you are big into sailing this might be a great chance to experience it! There are several golf courses in Bermuda, but I've been told Mid Ocean Club and Tucker's Point Golf Club are great.

Keep in mind, Bermuda is a bit dressier: so boys make sure to pack slacks, Bermuda shorts, and a blazer. Ladies, think floral and a bit more conservative attire. If you forget; however, don't worry too much, there are a few stores in town selling blazers and Bermuda shorts!

Like always, enjoy yourself and take lots of photos! (You can always delete photos, but its hard to go back in time and take more!)... OH, and make sure to enjoy the turquoise waters and pink beaches!

Until Next Time, Safe Travels!

J'aime Paris

April 13, 2016 Allison Graham

Paris might be the most difficult city to write about--because it is and will always be the place I dream about. The lifestyle, the fashion, the architecture, the effortless beauty,wine at lunch, the reasons go on & on... but I will do my best to continue to add my favorite hotels, restaurants, and spots check out. But have no fear, I will never stop traveling here so the list will continue to expand... and yes I do always say I'm going to live here someday.

To begin, it is helpful to visualize the city. It is comprised of 20 neighborhoods, called Arrondissements. Each has its own personality and charm. It is also helpful to know that it is divided by the Seine River: Left Bank/Right Bank. For the sake of this blog, I will focus on the main touristy spots.

*8th Arrondissement being my favorite, and where I want to live--right near L'Avenue, Hôtel Plaza Athénee, walking steps to the Eiffel Tower, and the elegant shopping street of Avenue Montaigne.

When to visit:

June- August: Best weather, but most crowded & most expensive. Keep in mind, if you want to see Parisians, they will not be in the city in August- this is when the majority take holiday. This might be your agenda, but know this heading into it.
September-November: Weather is more unpredictable, but it's less crowded. You will also be able to see the Christmas Market, starting in November.
December-March: If you aren't afraid of wearing a coat, you will save the most money now.
March-June: Same as the fall, shoulder season, so you will save a bit and it will be less crowded than the summer.

Hotels I've been lucky enough to stay at:

Champs Élysées Plaza : 2 Blocks away from Champs-Élysées at 35 Rue de Berri. My first trip to Paris was spent here, and EVERY single trip since, I have stopped back in to grab a drink. This is a boutique hotel--which you will find is my favorite type of lodging. This hotel was great! Charming decor and prime location for a first time Paris-goer.

2 Blocks from this hotel you have the heavily traveled Champs Elysées; however, on the back side, you have a low traveled road that leads you to the greatest shopping in the city, as well as Place Vendôme! (Another favorite Spot...but I've kind of lost count of those)

La Maison Favart: This boutique hotel is located in the 2nd Arrondissement. I stayed with my partner in crime (baby sister), Dr. Dre, here on our way to Nice & Monaco. We had a nice stay--cute rooms with an honesty bar.

Intercontinental Paris Le Grand: We stayed at this hotel during a trip and used points. This is a fantastic hotel. Larger than what I prefer; however, it has grand charm. I'm a complete sucker for detail and charm: drapes, wall paper..etc. I love detail and I love feeling like a princess. Ask for a room with a view of the Opera. My husband is an Ambassador-Spire Elite with IHG.. which means... yes, Upgrades Galore and other perks!

*Travel Tip: Sign up with a hotel---and stick with them! (Except for special occasions of course.)

Hôtel Costes: I like every place I've stayed in Paris; however, this is my favorite hotel. I almost don't want to share this gem.. because I want it to remain my secret! The rooms are small; however, every inch is magnificent and full of charm. This hotel also has my favorite dinner restaurant: in the courtyard. The hotel is located in Place Vendôme, 1st arrondissement. There is a luxurious bar that doesn't get started until the wee hours: People watching galore. I would not recommend this hotel to non-fashionistas. (I'm not kidding... it's definitely a scene.)

Have not stayed here yet.... by mark my words.. I Will! Hôtel Plaza Athênêe: Located in the 8th Arrondissement, with views of the Eiffel Tower! This is a Dorchester Collection Hotel (which means pricey... but Ultimate Luxury) it is also where Aleksandr Petrovsky took Carrie Bradshaw! (Sex & The City)

Hôtel Plaza Athénée, walking from L'Avenue to the Eiffel Tower

Keep in mind these are some of my favorite hotels. If you can use points or save by staying at a different hotel-then you should. Travel is about the experience you make. At the end of the day, you are still in the greatest city in the world. The City of Love.

Things to Do in Paris: other than wander the streets in awe.

Eiffel Tower: The thing about the Eiffel Tower--well at least with me, I thought it would be this lame touristy thing to see... But then you see it... and like a giddy 5 year old girl, all your dreams about Paris come true.

SO--you need to see the Eiffel Tower at day & night.

WHEN you see it at night, sit on the field on the back side, and bring a bottle of wine. If you forget, there will be boys walking around with beer, bubbles, and wine for purchase. Seeing the Eiffel Tower sparkle is magical.

Another great thing to do: One of the Boat tours for dinner. Scott & I took a dinner cruise with a live band, it was super lame & touristy... and guess what? It was AMAZING! DO it.

*Travel Tip: If you have airline or credit card miles see if you can purchase or use miles through them!

The Louvre & Musée d'Órsay: This is located on the right bank. It is a historic landmark in Paris as well as one of the world's largest museums.

There is so much art, it is an art history lover's dream. I was more enthused by the architecture. It's overwhelmingly large. To think it was built hundreds of years ago is impressive. Our first stop of course was the Mona Lisa.

Musée d'Orsay is located on the left bank: Here is where you will find Monet's Water Lillies (my personal favorite) but i'm biased to impressionism.

Pont des Arts Bridge: This bridge crosses the River Seine and used to be the trendy bridge where you put your "love lock" on. They have started to take this down, but the bridge is still a gorgeous view & photo opp *Tip: have someone take your photo with the break in the river-two different routes.

Notre Dame: If in Paris, you kind of need to give respect to the Notre Dame. In the summer, the line is out the door... in the fall (November)there is no line, so keep this in mind.

Place Vendôme: Vendôme is a square in the 1st arrondissement--and also Jewelry Galore! Every major jewelry store you can imagine.. think Cartier, Van Cleef and Arpels, Rolex..etc In this square you are walking distance to the L'ouvre, Park, Theater district and greatest shopping at flagship stores.

Arc de Triomphe: Super Touristy, but for the first time Paris-goer, you kind of have to. The top gives you a great view of the whole city and the Champs Elysées.

The Tuileries Garden: Once you are done seeing the museums, Eiffel tower, and all the other to-dos in Paris, sit back and put your heels up here. Or if you are planning on going to the Louvre, grab a snack here and enjoy some people watching. Just relax.

In the summertime, you will see children with miniature sail boats in the fountains, lovers strolling through the park, with the beauty of the city surrounding you... and when its time for a snack... or pint of beer, head to Café Diane.

Jardin du Palais Royal & Le Palais Royal: Palace and gardens with arcades and striped columns. It's a great spot to sit and picnic or pose on columns!

Daniel Buren's 260 Black&White striped columns

St. Germain: Across the river from the Louvre, you can walk across Pont des Arts bridge. This area can be described as possibly the most Classical Parisian neighborhood. The streets are lined with art galleries, shopping, and cafés. If you have time on your trip, visit St. Germain even for a casual lunch to check out the neighborhood.

Sacré-Cœur: If you want a view of Paris, come to this Cathedral on the top of the hill. This is the highest point in the city. *If you've seen the movie Three Days to Kill, it is the location where Kevin Costner teaches his daughter to ride a bike.

Favorite Places to Eat: the scene doesn't get started until later. I won't book a reservation until at least 10:30pm. But in general, people don't eat dinner until at least 8:30pm.

L'Avenue: My favorite time to eat here is at lunch-late afternoon. Sit outside always. Great people watching and located in one of my favorite Arrondissements.

If you care to see some celebs--this might be your spot as it is located near my next stay: Hotel Plaza Athénée Paris (Dorchester Collection.) When sitting outside, you can view the Eiffel Tower. After lunch and a cocktail-walk to the Eiffel Tower.

Restaurant & Terrace at Hotel Costes: Dinner doesn't get going until 10:30-11:00 so hopefully you are a night owl like myself. This place is fantastic. Favorite dinner spot--have your concierge make the reservation so you can sit outside in the courtyard.

Le Grand Colbert: This is a classic Parisian Brasserie-the food isn't the greatest, but you come here for the atmosphere anyways. If you've seen the movie Something's Gotta Give, this is the romantic spot at the end with Diane Keaton and Jack Nicholson.

Others restaurants to check out: Restaurant Le Meurice, L'Arpége, Chez Paul, Frenchie; Although, this is Paris-there are a million different spots. Ask your concierge at check-in (or prior to stay if it's summer) and ask them to make reservations. We did this our first stay at The Champs Elysées Plaza: it was how we discovered Hôtel des Costes.

Shopping: My favorite pasttime

Don't forget to shop your face off! If you do, make sure to get VAT tax back at the airport. You may think it's a pain in the butt, but it's not, it makes it cheaper than the states.. so think: Handbags.... seriously. If you are planning on shopping, do it wisely. (VAT)

Chanel: The iconic black & white flagship store. It is a work of beauty. Located at 31 Rue Cambon, 1st Arrondissement. Just stare in Awe. It's fabulous.

Louis Vuitton: Several locations, but the location on Champs Elysées will have lines out the door until closing time. I've been to this location when they have built the Eiffel Tower out of LV Monogrammed Luggage. It's like a museum for fashion.

Other Notables: Balmain, Christian Louboutin, Hermés, Lanvin, Christian Dior.

*Travel Tip, check with your bank of course, but you will get the best exchange rate by taking cash out at the atms in Paris.

The corner of Rue Cambon (Chanel's Flagship Store)

Day Trips:

Palaces of Versailles: If you have an extra day, this is a must. If the weather isn't perfect.. rent a golf cart--I know it sounds lazy, and I laughed at my sister when she suggested it (per recommendation from her friend) after the trip, it was the best decision of the day, besides getting a pint after. This is an easy train ride from Paris.

Normandy: If you love history, especially WWII history, then this is on your to do list. Just 1hr 47 mins by train.

If you get the chance, read the book: All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr. WWII in France.

All the Light We Cannot See, in Block Island — *All the Light We Cannot See,* in Block Island

Until Next Time, Safe Travels! Au Revoir!

Source: The City of Love

Athens, Mykonos, Santorini... Oh My!

April 6, 2016 Allison Graham

Hello Greek Gods & Goddesses!

I couldn't be more excited to visit Greece. I took Latin for 8 years and the history (like Rome) has always intrigued me. This will be the full package trip: History in Athens, Party in Mykonos, and Relax in Santorini.

Our itinerary: Fly overnight Friday, spend a few days in Athens--shoot over to Mykonos for 3 days, then end the trip in relaxing and gorgeous Santorini. 8 nights, 3 cities.

Athens: The center of Greek civilization for 4,000 years, with landmarks like the Acropolis, Parthenon, and the Olympic Stadium...eek! We will land in Athens Saturday and power-through (SLEEP ON PLANE!) We will enjoy two days in Athens then fly to Mykonos!!!

Like all trips, I need to look at what i'm willing to spend and where I want to splurge. Currently, I'm planning on splurging a bit in Santorini at an all-suite resort (with private pool) and looking at where my money will give me the most luxury for the best price in the Mykonos. Fortunately, Mykonos is less expensive than Santorini, so i'm able to get the same luxurious stay for half the price tag! Cha-Ching!

Athens Hotels: There were three hotels in contention: all three were found on my usual hit-lists, so I know they are up to my standards. I have a friend who travels quite a bit in Greece and he has told us.... the place-to-be is The Hotel Grande Bretagne. We are taking his word!

3 Hotels for Comparison: Keep in mind there are many hotels: including the Intercontinental; however, since we are staying such a short time, we've opted for the hotel with the view. But, if you are looking to use or earn points--always search for your brand!

King George
Divani Palace Acropolis
Hotel Grande Bretagne

Hotel Grande Bretagne: Our choice for Athens! This luxury hotel is in prime location in Constitution Square. The GB Garden Rooftop Bar provides Greek delicacies overlooking the Acropolis. If this isn't your fancy (but of course it should be) enjoy a cocktail under the tapestry of Alexander the Great in Alexander's Bar.

We will spend our time in Athens walking to the landmarks and learning more about the history of Greece.

Next Stop.... Mykonos!

Mykonos: part of the Cyclades island group in the Aegean Sea, is known to be more of a party island compared to Santorini. Both, however, are known for being glamorous and breathtakingly beautiful.

3 hotels for consideration:

Kivotos Luxury Boutique Hotel
Mykonos Grand Hotel
Santa Marina

Using 5 different sources, I narrowed down my search based on what was frequently suggested. The sources I used were:

Conde nast Traveler
Travel & Leisure
Tablet
United Chase Mileage Luxury Hotels Book
American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts Book

Like I've mentioned in previous destinations, there are more affordable sites to use: KAYAK, Trip Advisor, Travelocity, Orbitz..etc But I like to find luxury boutique hotels and narrow down my search from there.

Kivotos Luxury Boutique Hotel: This is a very boutique hotel, offering 40 rooms. The sea rooms are worth the splurge. The hotel is steps away from a secluded beach. Restaurants & Bars on-site: Del Mar Bar a cocktail swim up bar, K Bar a cosmopolitan atmosphere, and two different dining experiences. Kivotos offers a private dining experience anywhere on site, and a gourmet dining experience at La Meduse.

Santa Marina, Luxury Hotel & Resort: Bungalows built into the hills above a private beach. The hotel offers 96 rooms, of those, most offering sea views. Santa Marina is part of Starwood Hotels & Resorts, so if you are looking to use or earn some points, this may be helpful for you to know. This hotel is a 5 minute walk to town. This hotel also offers Olympic size tennis courts! There is a lobby bar with panoramic sea views, the Buddha Bar which is beachside, and the Colonial Pool Restaurant & Bar, which is poolside with romantic sea views.

Mykonos Grand Hotel & Resort: Located on the Ayios Yiannis beach on the island's southwest coast. The hotel offers 107 luxury room, offering panoramic sea views. Dining & Cocktail Offerings: the White Bar, Pool Bar, Pool Deck, Personalized Dining, Aqua & Sole, and The Dolphins of Delos. 7 Minute drive to downtown.

Ultimately, after weighing out my options. I decided The Mykonos Grand Hotel was my choice. All three were amazing, so I knew I couldn't make a bad decision, but the size, location and amenities were what I preferred. It also helps that they offer tennis and squash courts!

To be honest, the room options were what stole my heart. The view is going to be spectacular anywhere we stay. This hotel offers-private jacuzzis, pools, and shared pools for all rooms with a sea view. I opted to upgrade for a slight up-charge. Instead of sharing a pool: we have our own jacuzzi! *If you are looking for the ultimate experience, you could get the executive suite with private infiniti pool!

Below is the view from my home for three days !!!

One Extra Hotel for you Party PEOPLE: Belvedere Hotel is located right downtown, no beach, but the party is brought to them. If you are looking to come to Mykonos just for the pool & party scene this may be the place for you. Some other spots may cater a bit towards romance and honeymoons.

Where to head out in Mykonos: This is the party island, so here's a few suggestions to let your hedonism out! Beach parties run the scene during the day- think Paradiso Club or Psarrou Beach.

C-Bar at the Belvedere Hotel: head here for sunset scene into the wee hours
Space Dance: if you are looking for a club prior to 4am-hit this spot up. Large dance floor-younger crowd.
Cavo Paradiso Club, overlooking Paradise Beach, this party will get started during the day and continue!

After partying on the Mykonos, we will be looking for relaxation in Santorini!

Last Stop: Santorini!

Santorini: Blue Ocean, Blue Sky, Blue Roofs, and White buildings. Blue & White-my go to colors, so staying on a cliff over-looking the ocean in an infinity pool sounds pretty much perfect to me. I have never found a pool I didn't like, especially infinity pools overlooking the Aegean Sea.

Since I have not been yet, my research for this trip has been pretty extensive: so I will walk through how I selected my hotel and maybe it can be useful for you. I use this research for pretty much every International trip. This part of my trip was where the most planning came out. Originally, I wanted to spend 7 nights here, but was persuaded to split the trip (activity driven on the front end.)

1. I am a subscriber to Condé nast Traveler & Travel & Leisure both magazine and I follow them on instagram. I like to see places I've never been and get ideas- and I write down all of the recommendations from both sources then see which ones match up.

2. Other sources I find to be incredibly helpful--This is for you wise folks using you credit card perks like a pro- With my AMEX card I receive the Fine Hotels & Resorts magazine through American Express Travel, which shows me the perks I receive by booking or using points through them. With my Chase United Mileage Plus card, I receive the Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection magazine... same thought process.

View from our private pool at Canaves Oia Suites

3. After I nail down hotels that keep popping up on all lists, I check out dates and prices, images, and amenities. I have chosen the Canaves Oia Suites. Keep in mind: Canaves Oia also has a hotel option which will cut the price in half!

These were the hotels I narrowed down for final selection.

Mystique Hotel (18 Rooms)
Katikies Hotel (25 Rooms)
Grace Santorini (22 Rooms)
Andronis Luxury Suites (16 Rooms)
Chromata (25 rooms)
Canaves Oia Suites

Canaves Oia Suites: Our hotel of choice! Carved into a cliffside overlooking the Aegean Sea. This is an all-suite hotel: our room will have a private veranda with a plunge pool jacuzzi! Paradise. They also offer wine tastings! Originally, we were going to spend 4 nights in the hotel and 3 in the suites--but with the trip to Mykonos we will spend our nights in the suites. *Also see: Canaves Oia Hotel

*What to do & Where?

Fira: nightlife
Oia: best sunsets
Kamari: shopping
Kamari, Perissa, Perivolos: best beaches
Nea Kameni: small, uninhabited volcanic island

What to do in Santorini?

Beaches! Monolithos & Kamari beaches are the most popular
Satellite Islands of Thirasia, reached by ferry from Fira
Cable Car

The cable car is located 10km from our hotel, so this might be a great scenic option!

Catamaran Sailing Excursion: Sail across the Aegean Sea--umm sign me up! These trips can be private or semi-private tours, and there are a few different size Catamarans. This is the excursion I'm looking forward to the most and its offered through our hotel.

Where to eat?

There are several spots to check out in Oia and Fira, but my one tip is Dimitris Ammoudi Tavern. What's better than catch of the day? Enjoying it at a private table on the water! Fresh Fish prepared daily in the northern village above Oia. Come here for sunset and enjoy this romantic spot by the sea.

When to go?

June-September: High Season (expensive season) But warmest temperatures and little to no wind or rain.

October& November, April & May: Shoulder Season, good time for sight seeing, a little less predictable weather.

November-April: Best Deals. This is the off season.

*Travel Tip: Santorini is a honeymoon destination and most of the nice hotels book up a year in advance, keep this in mind. Although, I'm sure you can get a last minute spot. This is a dream trip of mine, so I needed to make sure I was staying exactly where I wanted.

Pack your camera, swimsuits, shades and enjoy this piece of paradise! There will be few places that compare with the beauty of the Aegean Sea. Enjoy.

Until Next Time, Safe Travels.

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