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POROS - THE TINY BUCOLIC GREEK ISLAND IN THE SARONIC GULF WILL CHARM YOU WITH ITS DIVERSE LANDSCAPES, PEACEFUL BLUE COVE...
24/09/2026

POROS - THE TINY BUCOLIC GREEK ISLAND IN THE SARONIC GULF WILL CHARM YOU WITH ITS DIVERSE LANDSCAPES, PEACEFUL BLUE COVES, AND LUSH PINE FORESTS - 13 THINGS WORTH SEEING AND DOING

Poros is one of the smallest islands in the Saronic Gulf, with only about 4000 residents. Smaller than Hydra and Kythnos I recently wrote about, this charming place, an easy hop from Athens by ferry (about 1hr) is gorgeous, and not very crowded, which makes it an easy weekend getaway from the mainland. What makes it very unique by comparison to the other two is the pine forests growing on one side of it, as well as important ancient history.

It has been inhabited since the Bronze Age, and the famous Temple of Poseidon, now in ruins, was built there around 520 BC. Poros also played an important role in War of Independence when, in 1828, Greeks met there to establish the first Greek Constitution.

The island is divided into two distinct parts joined by a narrow canal, Spheria and Kalavria. The more volcanic Spheria is where all the action happens, and that’s also where the main town is located. The other, Kalavria, is much more lush and green, covered in beautiful pine forests, and a lot more hilly.

The capital town of Poros is built on an hillside overlooking the port and the picturesque bay around it. If you climb to the top of the hill with the famous Clock Tower, you’ll be able to see the entire bay in front of you. Especially at sunset, it is an absolutely gorgeous view, especially with all the sailboats scattered across it.

The island has some lovely beaches as well, and those surrounded by lush vegetation, like the most famous one, Love Bay, for example, are especially pretty.

Here are some things to do on the island, and places worth seeing. All listed in the photos…

Why you should visit Poros island in Greece | Which islands to go to in Greece | Greece’s underrated islands | Best places to visit in Greece | Poros, Greece | European getaways | European islands | Lesser known islands in Greece


WHAT I’VE LEARNED FROM CRUISING THE GREEK ISLANDS ON A PRIVATE CATAMARAN - 15 IMPORTANT THINGS YOU NEED TO CONSIDER BEFO...
21/09/2026

WHAT I’VE LEARNED FROM CRUISING THE GREEK ISLANDS ON A PRIVATE CATAMARAN - 15 IMPORTANT THINGS YOU NEED TO CONSIDER BEFORE CHARTERING YOUR OWN

Yacht life might seem like the ultimate glitz to some, but it isn’t always so. It depends on so many interrelated factors, with some, unfortunately, outside of your control.

I was lucky to have this, what should have been, great experience, but it didn’t quite go the way we planned. So was it nice? To a degree, yes. Was it great? Absolutely not.

Apart from many issues on board during the trip itself, we didn’t even go to the Cyclades as originally planned, but ended up in the Saronic Gulf instead. This was due to heavy winds which, although not the company’s fault, was never communicated to us as a possibility, especially considering the time of the year we were booking for. The trip was in the last week of May, 2026.

To be totally transparent, we didn’t start booking until the end of January, which turned out to be already quite late. My husband, having been somewhat experienced with boat types and sizes, knew exactly what he wanted. However, although we did get the size we needed, as well as a newer boat, by then the choices were very limited.

Also, to put all arguments to rest, we did book a catamaran which, while it’s a different kind of sailing vessel than a typical yacht, due to having 2 hulls and not one monohull like the latter, is still technically considered a yacht by boating companies. 🤷‍♀️
A catamaran is also a more stable boat (a definite concern for winds and waves), more maneuverable and with better access to shallower waters, and generally more expensive due to double engines and systems, and 1.5-2 times more costly to dock in the marinas, often requiring double slips.
So, call it what you will: catamaran or yacht, it’s still a yacht.

Here are 15 lessons I learned from this “interesting” trip that, I hope, you won’t have to.

ALL are in the photos…

What to know before cruising the Greek islands | Private cruises through the Greek islands | Greek island cruising | Catamaran trips in Greece | Greek island hopping | Cyclades cruises | Catamaran charters in Greece | European getaways | Greek island sailing | Catamarans versus yachts




💚ONE OF THE MOST UNIQUE WILDERNESS EXPERIENCES IN BRITISH COLUMBIA - YOUR OWN PRIVATE FLOATING SPAMost of us have stress...
16/09/2026

💚ONE OF THE MOST UNIQUE WILDERNESS EXPERIENCES IN BRITISH COLUMBIA - YOUR OWN PRIVATE FLOATING SPA

Most of us have stressful lives these days. So who hasn’t dreamed of escaping somewhere peaceful to a place that would let them recharge and really rest. It is not often though that we have a chance to so completely disconnect in nature that we can forget the whole world around us. But so was the case with Moon Jelly Bathhouse, the most one-of-a-kind private experience I’ve had in a long time.

Located in the breathtakingly beautiful Clayoquot Sound on Vancouver Island in western Canada, just a short 15-min boat ride from Tofino, this private floating spa is as unique as they come.

Once you book it, it becomes your totally private getaway for about 6 glorious hours. You get picked up by a private boat by Mike, the owner, in Tofino harbor, speeding through the most gorgeous and picturesque landscape of quaint water and lush forests surrounding it. Suddenly, a little wooden house appears from around the corner, peacefully floating in its own little cove; your own sanctuary, if only for a day.

Mike will then show you around, tell you how the whole idea came about, and make sure you know how to operate everything, from lowering or raising the bath water temperature, to adding seaweed to the degree you prefer, and starting the fire in the lounge fire pit, etc., etc.

Soon, you are left alone for close to 6 hours of pure bliss. You soak in seaweed hot tubs (2) filled with saltwater and locally harvested seaweed (often bull or giant kelp) and heated to 114F (45C), which you can cool down with ocean water if you prefer. The seaweed has detoxifying properties, and is rich in antioxidants and minerals like magnesium, iodine, zinc, and potassium. Together with seawater, it eases muscle aches and joint stiffness, improves circulation, and lowers stress by calming the nervous system.

Continued in the photos…

Floating spas | Tofino, BC experiences | Where to disconnect in nature in British Columbia, Canada | Unique experiences in North America | Canadian wilderness experiences | Vancouver Island experiences | Private spas | Island escapes | Unique spas in British Columbia


14/09/2026

THINKING OF DISCONNECTING IN NATURE?
THIS MAGICAL PLACE WILL MAKE YOU FORGET THE WHOLE WORLD 💚

Imagine soaking in warm saltwater tub filled with detoxifying seaweed harvested especially for you, taking a cold plunge in between your soaks in your own secluded little bay, having lunch suspended over the water, basking in the sun with nothing but nature sounds around you, and warming up by the fire having not a worry in the world.

Is this your vibe?

If you want to know more, follow Travel Sophisticate to find out all the details about this magical place (coming next), and for more unique experiences and travel inspiration.

Floating spas | Tofino, BC experiences | Where to disconnect in nature in British Columbia, Canada | Unique experiences in North America | Canadian wilderness experiences | Vancouver Island experiences | Private spas | Island escapes | Unique spas in British Columbia

KYTHNOS, THE LESSER KNOWN OF THE CYCLADIC ISLANDS, MIGHT BE EXACTLY WHAT YOU NEED TO ESCAPE THE CROWDS, AND GET A SERIOU...
10/09/2026

KYTHNOS, THE LESSER KNOWN OF THE CYCLADIC ISLANDS, MIGHT BE EXACTLY WHAT YOU NEED TO ESCAPE THE CROWDS, AND GET A SERIOUS DOSE OF GREEK AUTHENTICITY -
17 IDEAS FOR PLACES TO SEE AND THINGS TO DO THAT WILL CONVINCE YOU TO VISIT

The island of Kythnos is not very well known to many people, but it might be exactly the place to go to if you’re looking for an island that’s truly authentic, yet not only uncrowded, but literally almost empty. It is popular with Greek families, especially during the month of August, and during weekends in season but, outside of those, it has miraculously managed to escape massive international tourism.

The island, being one of the first ones in the Cycladic chain traveling from the mainland, is a short ferry ride from Athens (1.5 hrs from Lavrio, and 3 hrs from Piraeus ports). It has a tiny population of only 1500-1600 permanent residents.

Kythnos is known for its ceramics and pottery, but it was also a big exporter of barley and semolina and, later on, also iron after the discovery of iron ore.

Named after the son of Apollo, Kythnos, the leader of the Dryopes, an ancient Greek tribe, this long, thin stretch of land with a ridge through its center is divided into valleys spreading to the east and west, with most ending at a beach, of which the island has close to 100, the most in the Cyclades. This makes finding quiet ones not difficult, even when the main spots like Kolona Beach are busier.

The port town of Merichas itself is lovely, but so are the villages of Chora and Dryopida, with their winding, quiet cobblestone streets and lively local tavernas. Another village that might be worth exploring for its thermal springs, is Loutra.

You will definitely need a car on this island, as many places are quite remote, but worth driving through to appreciate how untouched it still remains. We rented a taxi for a few hours to show us around, and it was a perfect way to explore it. The prices are very reasonable, and they’ll wait for you if you need time to visit certain areas or have a meal.

Find 17 ideas of what to see and do on the island where time seems to stand still in the photos….

HOW TO SPEND 2 DAYS ON THE BEAUTIFUL ISLAND OF HYDRA - 15 THINGS TO SEE AND DO THAT WILL MAKE YOU LOVE IT Following on m...
03/09/2026

HOW TO SPEND 2 DAYS ON THE BEAUTIFUL ISLAND OF HYDRA - 15 THINGS TO SEE AND DO THAT WILL MAKE YOU LOVE IT

Following on my previous reel, and all the reasons to visit Hydra (pronounced HEE-dra, as someone “lovingly” pointed out), I wanted to give you some ideas of things to do there that you might enjoy.

Hydra has enough to do for 2-3 days, if you don’t want to rush, but if you only have time for a day trip, you can still make it very enjoyable. It’s definitely doable, as long as you arrive by ferry early in the morning, and take one of the last ferries back.

‼️NOTE: For those arriving by private boat or yacht as I did: the port is extremely small, and you can’t reserve a spot like on some other islands, so arriving early is paramount. We arrived at 9.20am, and didn’t get a spot to park for almost 2 hours, having to wait for someone else to leave. It can be very tricky.

Before I move on to all the wonderful things to do on the island, I’d like to quickly tell you a little bit about why the island became car-free.

The history of this decision goes back to the 1950s when all wheeled & motorized vehicles were legally banned by a presidential decree.
1️⃣ The primary reason was the preservation of local heritage, including the unique 18th and 19th century architecture, including its many stone mansions, as well as maintaining traditional character.
2️⃣ The steep terrain was another good reason since the island is built a bit like an amphitheater around the crescent-shaped harbor. With its rocky cliffs, and many winding, cobblestone steps and very narrow alleys, motorized transportation was just not that practical.
3️⃣ Maintaining tranquility was also important, providing quiet, unhurried ecosystem free of traffic noise and exhaust.

Currently, all the local transportation is handled by mules, donkeys, and horses, from carrying luggage, groceries, and construction materials. Water taxis and boats provide connectivity between coastal villages, isolated beaches and the main port. The only exceptions are municipal vehicles like utility trucks for trash removal, ambulances, and fire engines.

Please, look at all the ideas for things to do in the photos.

Why you should visit Hydra Island in Greece | Which islands to go to in Greece | Greece’s underrated islands | Best places to visit in Greece | Hydra, Greece | European getaways | European islands | Lesser known islands in Greece


31/08/2026

TIRED OF POPULAR GREEK ISLANDS EVERYONE HEADS TO?
TAKE A SHORT FERRY RIDE TO THIS UNDERRATED ISLAND INSTEAD - 9 REASONS TO VISIT HYDRA

Many people have never heard of Hydra. It’s surprising, I know. But maybe not so much actually considering that many other islands like Santorini, Mykonos, Miltos, Corfu, etc., have gotten a lot more marketing, and resultant fame, than this beautiful little one. But you’d be amiss to exclude this little gem, although no longer hidden, from your list of islands to see.

I will talk more about Hydra in the upcoming post, but here are a few reasons why I would highly recommend visiting it:

🫏 CAR-FREE ENVIRONMENT:
No cars or anything motorized
Equine transport by donkeys and mules only

🏛️ RICH HISTORY AND ARCHITECTURE:
18th-century stone mansions
Naval heritage
Lots of little churches and monasteries

🎨 ARTISTIC AND CULTURAL HAVEN:
Vibrant art scene with lots of art exhibitions
Celebrity legacy like legendary artist Leonard Cohen, Pablo Picasso, and Sophia Loren

🌊 BEAUTIFUL COASTLINE AND SCENIC OUTDOORS:
Picturesque hikes
Secluded coves

📸 EXTREMELY PHOTOGENIC
Charming streets, picturesque port with yachts and traditional fishing boats, lively tavernas

🛍️ INCREDIBLE SHOPPING
Jewelry, art, clothing, local products, and a lot more

🍽️ FABULOUS RESTAURANTS
From more upscale to casual dining restaurants and bars, most of them with great views, there’s something for everyone

🎥 FAVORITE FILMING LOCATION:
Popular setting for film productions

🐈🐈‍⬛ HOME TO HUNDREDS OF THE CUTEST CATS

Have you been to Hydra? If yes, what did you think? And if not, have I managed to convince you to visit it with this video?

Why you should visit Hydra Island in Greece | Which islands to go to in Greece | Greece’s underrated islands | Best places to visit in Greece | Hydra, Greece | European getaways | European islands | Lesser known islands in Greece

Visit Greece EUROPE (visiteurope.com)


SO…IS SANTORINI REALLY WORTH VISITING, OR IS IT JUST ANOTHER HYPED UP ISLAND? REFLECTIONS ON MY STAY, AND 11 WAYS TO MAK...
24/08/2026

SO…IS SANTORINI REALLY WORTH VISITING, OR IS IT JUST ANOTHER HYPED UP ISLAND?
REFLECTIONS ON MY STAY, AND 11 WAYS TO MAKE YOURS A MEMORABLE ONE.

Well, I’m not going to keep you in suspense and, right off the bat, I’m going to admit to my passionate love affair with Santorini, red flags or not. To the island haters, sorry to disappoint you. 🤷‍♀️😂

But, as always, I wanted to give you an honest review because, as much as I adore it, there are certain things you really DO NEED to consider before traveling there to make your trip successful and enjoyable instead of miserable.

For full transparency, I was on Santorini for 8 nights in the 3rd week of May.

Please, find all my suggestions in the photos…and I hope you have a great trip. Also, if you’ve already been on the island and there’s anything you’d like to add, please share it in the comments. 🙏

What to know before visiting Santorini | Things to consider when planning a trip to Santorini | Is Santorini worth visiting | What to expect when planning a trip to Santorini | Different aspects of Santorini, Greece | European getaways | Tips for traveling to Santorini | Are Greek islands overrated

Ania Mioduszewska Photography


ANDRONIS LUXURY SUITES - A STUNNING HOTEL THAT STANDS OUT AMONG OTHER SANTORINI PROPERTIES WITH ITS STRIKING MODERN DEC...
23/08/2026

ANDRONIS LUXURY SUITES - A STUNNING HOTEL THAT STANDS OUT AMONG OTHER SANTORINI PROPERTIES WITH ITS STRIKING MODERN DECOR

Andronis Luxury Suites, conveniently located almost in the very center of Oia just off the main pedestrian walkway, is a gorgeous cliffside hotel featuring 39 traditional cave-style suites and villas, all with private infinity pools or hot tubs. Part of the Andronis group, which owns 5 properties on the islands of Santorini and Paros, it is a beautifully appointed hotel I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend.

Although I didn’t actually stay there, I did have a reservation, but chose to remain at Katikies Pelagos House simply because 2 extra nights became available, and it was just easier not to have to move. However, after doing much research on Oia properties, and had the circumstances been different, I would have definitely loved the experience. I did stop by to check it out though, and the lovely staff was kind enough to show me around. What you see here is a stunning 60 sq m Sunset Villa Socrates with infinity pool, boasting unobstructed volcano, caldera, and village views, although all rooms enjoy the same stunning ones. (The smallest suite is about 30 sq m and has an outdoor hot tub.)

Somewhat inconspicuous, with no big signs on the front to attract passersby, it is widely considered one of the top properties in Oia. The hotel feels incredibly intimate but, by comparison to Katikies, has a different color scheme, with very modern, clean lines in its decor. Natural wood furniture, cream upholstery, and taupe stone, as well as rust-colored terrace awnings, are somewhat of a departure from the white/blue interiors typical of the island, but work beautifully nonetheless, creating a peaceful and comfortable environment.

The hotel has a small Mare Sanus Spa where you can relax with a massage, or many specialized treatments created with local ingredients.

Continued in the photos…

Luxury hotels on Santorini with epic views | Where to stay on Santorini | Best hotel room views on Santorini | Oia luxury hotels | European city breaks | Luxury boutique hotels | Award-winning hotels on Santorini | Katikies properties | Andronis hotels


THE PICTURE-PERFECT KATIKIES HOTEL SANTORINI IS AS DREAMY AS THEY COME, WITH SERVICE AND INCREDIBLE HOSPITALITY TO MATCH...
21/08/2026

THE PICTURE-PERFECT KATIKIES HOTEL SANTORINI IS AS DREAMY AS THEY COME, WITH SERVICE AND INCREDIBLE HOSPITALITY TO MATCH 🤍

Those of you who have been following me for a while know that I don’t shy away from negative reviews when necessary, and neither do I praise every luxury hotel I stay at. And, what it also means is that when I actually do, a hotel not only wholeheartedly deserves it, but has gone out of its way to create an unforgettable experience on the highest level. And so was the case with Katikies Santorini.

As a matter of clarification, I stayed at Katikies Pelagos House, which is separate from the one down the road called Gea House, although they are both very similar and part of the same hotel group. Pelagos House sits at the entrance to the village of Oia, while Gea is slightly outside of it, but within a few-minutes walk from the other. (The hotel also has properties in Imerovigli and Fira.)

From the start of the booking process when I was contacted by a representative of the hotel offering to help with any kind of arrangements, be it airport pickups, tours and restaurant reservations, spa appointments, or coordination of room changes to make things smooth, they were extremely professional, efficient, and accommodating. (I had 2 separate reservations in different rooms and categories since the hotel was sold out on our last 2 nights, and a room didn’t become available until later). The same was the case with the hotel’s concierge team, as well as the restaurant staff, who went out of their way to cater to our every need, adjusting reservations if necessary, and fulfilling my requests (a few 😉) with aplomb.

But let’s get to the overall look of the hotel because it is beyond incredible…

Continued in the photos…

Luxury hotels on Santorini with epic views | Where to stay on Santorini | Best hotel room views on Santorini | Oia luxury hotels | European city breaks | Luxury boutique hotels | Award-winning hotels on Santorini | Katikies properties

Ania Mioduszewska Photography Katikies



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