1 I have been to different parts of Greece many times, but my favourite area is the Cycladic islands. I try to go to different islands from this group. I visited Paros and Anti Paros — the smaller and less touristic sister islands of Mykonos — which is overrun by tourists.
2These islands are famous for stunning sunsets, crystal clear beaches, lovely local island people and cubic white architecture against the azure blue Agean sea.
3 I love seafood and the islands have the best fish and shell fish ever. They are famous for sundried sardines and octopus! They also make their own goat cheese called Saganaki which is divine when grilled and their own wine, — the White and Rose wine are perfect with seafood. The olive oil here is superb and everything hot or cold is drizzled with it.
4 They love their pastry and on these islands, the bakeries are a pastry lover’s delight. I got to have the most amazing breads, cakes and local sweet and savoury bites.
5 The islands have artisans that make gold jewellery with turquoise stones. I picked up beautiful handmade jewellery and handmade organic olive skin products too.
6 I’m a complete beach bum and during the day, all I did was lie on the beach, swim and snorkel. It's also fun to charter a yacht or a sail boat and explore the many smaller islands. I saw many people jumping of their boats. Kite surfing is also popular and they host an annual kite surfing competition here too.
7 Once the sun starts to set, it’s time to get ready for the night and head to some of the cool bars and restaurants in the old town which is a maze of cobble stone streets filled with little boutiques. All the good bars and restaurants are Al Fresco along the beautiful old harbour — and it’s here that all the jet setters are seen.
— as told to Namita Gupta
