Join 1000+ subscribers for my weekly newsletter with travel tips and ideas for where to go next. It's for anyone looking for an authentic and sustainable travel experience with a little luxury, especially 50+ travellers. Come along with me to taste the food, explore the culture, go hiking or stay in a stylish boutique hotel. I feature exciting destinations in the UK and Europe, as well as further afield such as Canada & USA, Caribbean, India & Sri Lanka, Jordan and many more.
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Just back from Zakynthos + tips for Greece
Published 6 days ago • 4 min read
Hello Reader
If you've been following me for a while you may know that I have family connections to Greece, where my sister lives. She and her family run a couple of hotels, plus a growing portfolio of restaurants on the Greek island of Zakynthos.
Only last week I was there, basking in the Greek sunshine, checking out the local swimming spots and seeing what's new since my last visit.
This trip was mainly about relaxing and catching up with the family, but I did try the fabulous new restaurant Grace that the family recently opened in the town's main square. It's a must-visit if you are in Zakynthos this summer - the rooftop bar with cocktails and sushi is the coolest place to hang out in the evening! Check out my Instagram reel here.
In this newsletter you'll find a few tips to enjoy your time in Greece, as well as inspiration on where to go at any time of year - Greece isn't just the Acropolis and Greek Islands, although these are undeniable highlights!
Next time I'll be sharing some places that are fun to visit in London this summer. Until then, wishing you sunshine and happy travels.
Heather x
PS. If you want a place to stay in Zakynthos, I can highly recommend the two hotels run by my sister and niece - Windmill Hotel for traditional hospitality and Windmill Bay for boutique style by the sea.
Heather on the rooftop terrace of Grace Restaurant in Zakynthos
Travelling soon?
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Hotels: I use Booking but Expedia is also good for flight + hotel packages.
Tours: For top end food tours, we recommend Devour Tours and small group tours with Take Walks. Both Get Your Guide and Viator are also great for tours and experiences.
Trains: For train bookings in Europe use Rail Europe. Byway Travel also offer great no-fly itineraries in Europe and beyond.
Car Hire: For car hire I use the car rental arm of Booking.com (but always check the scores and reviews of each provider).
Villas & Cottages: VRBOfor villas and holiday rentals worldwide and Sykes Cottages for UK cottages.
Zakynthos
Zakynthos is one of the larger Greek Islands and while it's popular with the package holiday crowd, there are loads of fun and stylish spots for the discerning independent traveller too.
In particular, Zakynthos has numerous amazing beaches and swimming spots, even by Greek Islands standards.
Click for what to pack on your beach holiday to Greece
Explore Piraeus between island hopping
Many travellers pass through the port of Piraeus, joining a cruise or ferry hopping to the Greek Islands. Even if you have just a few hours between ferries it's worth exploring the town itself - read our article and download the FREE Piraeus Greece - 1 day itinerary to print or save on your mobile (with interactive map).
We loved the Greek island of Andros, which has some amazing hiking trails. Late September is the perfect time to visit, and our recommended 1 week itinerary makes it easy to plan.
Greece is not just for summer! If you want fabulous spring or autumn break, we recommend Thessaloniki as a city getaway, with fabulous food, history and harbour ambiance.
Authentic, sustainable travel with a little luxury
Join 1000+ subscribers for my weekly newsletter with travel tips and ideas for where to go next. It's for anyone looking for an authentic and sustainable travel experience with a little luxury, especially 50+ travellers. Come along with me to taste the food, explore the culture, go hiking or stay in a stylish boutique hotel. I feature exciting destinations in the UK and Europe, as well as further afield such as Canada & USA, Caribbean, India & Sri Lanka, Jordan and many more.
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