Luxury Redefined: A 9-Night Caribbean Voyage on Explora I

If you're searching for a luxury cruise experience that blends the elegance of a high-end resort with the freedom of the open sea, Explora I from Explora Journeys should be at the top of your list. I recently had the incredible opportunity to embark on a 9-night sailing, exploring breathtaking destinations from Miami to the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, St. Barths, Tortola, and back. Spoiler alert: it was an unforgettable journey.

Itinerary & Accommodations

Vessel: Explora I
Duration: 9 nights
Route: Miami → Dominican Republic → San Juan, Puerto Rico → St. Barths → Tortola → Miami
Fully Inclusive Rate: Starting at ~$5k per person (double occupancy) in the entry-level suite

We initially booked an entry-level suite but were thrilled to receive an upgrade to the Premier Penthouse (Room 10045) just days before sailing. The extra space was fantastic, and if I sail again, I would absolutely love to experience the Cove Residence, which features a separate bedroom and a private Jacuzzi on the balcony.

Our suite host provided excellent service, keeping our space spotless and ensuring a seamless turn-down service each evening.

Dining & Culinary Highlights

One of the most exciting aspects of any luxury voyage is the dining experience, and Explora I delivered in every way. Guests raved about the food, and the diverse selection of restaurants meant there was something for every palate.

Dining Overview:

• Room Service: Stellar! We enjoyed breakfast in our suite daily with a wide variety of options.

• Specialty Dining: A variety of culinary experiences were available, each with its own flair. The Italian specialty restaurant, which is complimentary for our clients, was an exclusive experience worth trying.

• Bars & Lounges: The drinks onboard were expertly crafted, with the lobby bar on Deck 4 standing out as a favorite spot for a perfectly mixed cocktail.

Onboard Experience & Entertainment

Explora I is designed for relaxation and refined luxury. The ship offers an array of entertainment and leisure options:

• Multiple Pools & Sun Decks: We particularly enjoyed the Deck 5 pool, which was perfect for families and had just the right depth for kids. Poolside service was impeccable.

• Fitness Studio & Sports Deck: A well-equipped gym, a movement studio, and a walking track provided plenty of opportunities for fitness lovers. The pickle-ball and basketball courts were a fun addition.

• Shore Excursions: Embarking and disembarking at ports was seamless, making it easy to explore new destinations stress-free.

Candid Thoughts & Guest Experience

Explora I delivers a refined, resort-like atmosphere at sea. The clientele was mostly well-traveled, sophisticated cruisers who had experienced other luxury lines. Many guests we met had been on several Explora Journeys and spoke highly of the service, ambiance, and overall experience.

One of the standout features was the Wi-Fi quality, which was excellent throughout the sailing.

Where Explora I Excels

• Spacious, well-designed suites with top-tier service

• Gourmet dining with a variety of options

• Seamless embarkation and disembarkation at ports

• High-quality onboard entertainment and fitness facilities

Perks for That Blonde Travels Clients

Booking through That Blonde Travels grants access to exclusive benefits, enhancing your Explora Journeys experience. These perks include:

• Up to €300 Journey Experience Credit per suite

• Complimentary Transfers (varies by destination)

• Complimentary Dining Experience at Anthology, the Exclusive Specialty Restaurant

• Complimentary Access to Hydrothermal Spa Areas

Final Thoughts

Explora I redefines luxury cruising, combining five-star service with a laid-back, resort-style atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or embarking on your first journey at sea, this experience is sure to impress. From world-class dining to impeccably designed accommodations, this was truly an unforgettable way to explore the Caribbean.

Would I sail with Explora Journeys again? Absolutely. The journey was seamless, luxurious, and a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

For more details or to book your own Explora Journeys experience, feel free to reach out—I’d love to help plan your next luxury escape!

Back in January, I had the absolute pleasure of experiencing the ultra-chic Palm Heights in the Cayman Islands! This boutique, all-suite beachfront hotel is pure paradise and offers the perfect mix of luxury, relaxation, and stunning aesthetics.

Everywhere you turn, there’s a picture-perfect moment waiting to be captured. From the stylish, retro-inspired decor to the dreamy ocean views, Palm Heights truly exudes effortless elegance.

Situated on the iconic Seven Mile Beach, reaching this luxury retreat is a breeze. Simply fly into Grand Cayman’s Owen Roberts International Airport, and within a quick 10-minute drive, you’ll find yourself in paradise. I always recommend renting a car to explore the incredible local dining scene—trust me, the food here is absolutely worth it!

Palm Heights is an all-suite hotel, making every room feel like a private retreat. I stayed in the One-bedroom Oceanfacing Penthouse, and WOW—it was spacious, beautifully designed, and had the most incredible sunset views from the balcony. The mid-century modern decor mixed with warm Caribbean touches created the perfect vibe.

One of the standout highlights of Palm Heights? The incredible dining scene. This hotel offers a variety of exceptional culinary experiences, from the freshest seafood at Tillie’s to expertly crafted cocktails at The Coconut Club. Every dish was a celebration of local ingredients and bold flavors, making each meal unforgettable. Adding to the charm, the service has a unique European beach club feel, with staff from all over Europe. I especially loved getting to know everyone—shoutout to George for making our experience even more memorable!

Another standout feature? The wellness and spa experiences. Whether it was morning yoga with ocean views or a deep-tissue massage at The Garden Club spa, every moment felt rejuvenating.

For That Blonde Travels clients, my VIP amenities include:

• Complimentary daily breakfast for 2

• Resort credit to use towards dining or spa treatments

• Upgrade on arrival (based on availability)

• Early check-in/late check-out (based on availability)

If you’re looking for a high-end, effortlessly cool escape in the Caribbean, Palm Heights is IT. I’d love to book this dreamy getaway for you! Email me at lauren@thatblondetravels.com or fill out my contact form to get started!

This hotel is truly a standout among Caribbean luxury resorts—perfect for honeymooners, couples, and even solo travelers looking for a stylish retreat!

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C/O Ritz Carlton Yachts

Luxury at Sea: Aboard ILMA with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

If you're looking for an ultra-luxury yachting experience that blurs the line between a private yacht and a high-end cruise, ILMA from The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection should be at the top of your list.

The Yacht Experience

ILMA offers an all-inclusive, highly personalized journey at sea, with rates starting at approximately $10,000 per person (double occupancy) for a 7-night itinerary. This price tag grants access to an intimate and luxurious sailing experience that prioritizes comfort, exclusivity, and world-class service.

WHAT Sets ILMA Apart

Beyond its stunning design and five-star service, ILMA boasts unique features that truly set it apart from traditional cruising experiences:

• The Marina: A floating water playground accessible when anchored, offering kayaks, paddleboards, and more. It’s the ultimate way to feel like you’re aboard a private yacht rather than a traditional cruise.

• Pop-Up Workshops: Guests can participate in engaging activities like nautical knot-tying, mixology classes, jewelry cleaning, and even photography enhancement workshops.

• Exclusive Event Nights: ILMA hosts themed nights like Havana Nights and the White Party, offering an elevated entertainment experience.

C/O Ritz Carlton Yachts

C/O Ritz Carlton Yachts

The Ritz-Carlton Level of Service

The level of service on ILMA is nothing short of exceptional. Every guest has a Suite Ambassador who seems to anticipate needs before they even arise. The dining staff quickly learn names and preferences, adding a personalized touch to every meal. The ship is not particularly family-oriented, with only 5% of total capacity allocated to children, making it an ideal option for adult travelers seeking a sophisticated experience.

C/O Ritz Carlton Yachts

STARS Perks for That Blonde Travels Clients

Booking through That Blonde Travels grants access to exclusive Marriott STARS benefits, enhancing your Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection experience. These perks include:

• Personalized welcome confection and an upgraded bottle of champagne or wine delivered to your suite.

• A complimentary dinner for two at a specialty restaurant—a $375 per person value and a truly special fine-dining experience.

• A personalized welcome from the Hotel Manager.

• A bridge tour at the Captain’s discretion—a rare and exciting behind-the-scenes look.

• An exclusive Suite Upgrade* for added luxury (based on availability).

• Complimentary access to Starlink premium Wi-Fi services, ensuring seamless connectivity at sea.

C/O Ritz Carlton Yachts

Final Thoughts

ILMA delivers an ultra-luxury experience at sea, blending world-class hospitality with an intimate and sophisticated ambiance. With only 50% of guests being seasoned cruisers, ILMA is proving to be a game-changer in the luxury travel space. Whether you’re a yachting enthusiast or a high-end traveler seeking a new experience, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s ILMA is a voyage worth taking.

Would I sail with them? In a heartbeat.

Have questions about ILMA or looking to book your own Ritz-Carlton Yacht adventure? Reach out to That Blonde Travels for expert guidance!

C/O Ritz Carlton Yachts

Jamie and Vinh’s destination wedding at Unico Resort was nothing short of magical. In this post, they share their experience of planning a wedding away from home, tips for couples considering a destination wedding, and why a wedding specialist was key to making their dream wedding a reality.

Lauren: Why did you choose a destination wedding?

Jamie and Vinh: We chose a destination wedding because one of our very good friends got married a year prior to us and we loved everything about it. We loved that all the planning and preparation wouldn’t all be over in just one day. Instead, we were able to hangout and spend quality time with everyone throughout the whole week, which allowed us to really enjoy the wedding together  without feeling obligated to go from table to table all night. It also helps that everything was significantly cheaper compared to the US. We got everything we wanted for an incredible price. 

Lauren: How many attendees did you have?
What kind of experience did you envision your guests having? 

Jamie and Vinh: We had about 68-70 guests. The type of experience we envisioned for our guests was for it to just be a big weekend long party celebrating our love. I wanted our guests to have the trip of their life and to not worry about anything once they stepped on the resort except which drinks to order or what food they want to eat. I feel so lucky to have so many of our guests say it was one, if not, the best and most memorable wedding they’ve been to. 

Lauren: What was one part of planning your wedding that you knew you couldn't have done alone?
How did having a Destination Wedding Specialist help with that?

Jamie and Vinh: One part we couldn’t have done alone was definitely organizing all the bookings of the room, flights, and travel. Lauren’s direct relationship with Unico was also a great benefit. Just having Lauren’s experience with destination weddings and traveling in general was invaluable in planning a destination wedding. We had so many questions and had no clue what we were doing in the beginning and she made the process so smooth and easy. It was one less thing for us to stress about because she had it all covered. To say she was on top of it is an understatement. 

Lauren: What piece of advice would you give to couples who are just starting the planning process?

Jamie and Vinh: Some advice I would give to couples who are starting the planning process is that it will be stressful but it will all be worth it in the end. Just don’t forget that this day is all about you two, so try not to worry about all the noise and make decisions based on what you two want and what would be best for you. 

Lauren: What’s one “extra” you’re super glad you splurged on?  What surprised you the most about your wedding? 

Jamie and Vinh: One extra we were glad we splurged on was definitely the fireworks during our first dance. The fireworks were a big hit with our guests and they were so shocked when they came on. 

What surprised me most about my wedding was just how amazingly smooth everything came together even though everything was planned through email, video chat, and phone calls. I never physically saw anything and yet it was everything I could ever imagine and more. Everybody that we worked with was amazing and a key player in helping our vision come to life. 

Lauren: If you could choose three words to describe your wedding, what would they be?

Jamie and Vinh: Three words to describe our wedding would be magical, intimate, exciting. 

Lauren: What is your favorite memory from your big day?

Jamie and Vinh: It’s hard to pick one memory of our big day because we have so many but for Vinh, his was the fireworks during our first dance. For me, it was the last song when we had our friends and family surrounding us and singing with us. I just felt all the love at that moment. 

A note from Lauren: It was such a pleasure helping Jamie and Vinh with the wedding of their dreams!

Ready to plan your own unforgettable destination wedding? Contact me today to start planning your dream wedding at Unico Resort!

In order to give this hike an appropriate introduction, I have to tell you first about the weather conditions that we endured during this trek. We went to New Zealand in April, which is supposed to be their fall. This April, however, was unusually cold, windy, and rainy, which made for a lot of cancelled excursions. The day that we had set aside to do this trek was no different.

While checking into our hotel, which I swear was haunted (another story..), we noticed a sign at the check-in counter that described the conditions for the following day for the Tongariro Trek. The sign stated a -3˚C windchill with up to 70 mph winds. I know! Crazy, right??

Despite these horrible weather conditions, we layered up and decided to attempt this hike. We headed out from the hotel early that morning with our guide to the Mangatepopo car park.

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TIPS BEFORE YOU START:

1. Schedule a shuttle to/from your hotel - Parking at the Mangatepopo car park is limited to 4 hours for people that are doing shorter walks. If you are completing the entire trek, then you need to schedule a shuttle.

2. Check the weather. Check the weather. Check the weather!

3. Dress in layers.

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FACTS ABOUT THE HIKE:

Distance: 19.4 km (12 miles) point-to-point
Elevation Gain: 765 meters elevation gain and 1125 meters elevation loss if you hike from Mangatepopo car park to Ketetahi car park
Difficulty: Strenuous
Length of Time: 6 to 8 hours
Location: Tongariro National Park, North Island of New Zealand

C/O Tongariro Crossing

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ESSENTIALS FOR THE TREK:

Tongariro National Park can be subject to unpredictable weather, and conditions can change quickly. It is important that all walkers carry the essentials for their journey across.

Take:

• Food and plenty of fluid, especially in the summer months. If you are planning on completing any of the summit tracks, ensure you have additional water supplies.

• Waterproof and wind-proof raincoat and trousers

• Strong, sturdy boots (you will be trekking over uneven volcanic terrain)

• Warm clothing layers: woolen or polypropylene thermals and fleece

• Hat and gloves

• Hot Hands

• Sunscreen and sunglasses

• First Aid Kit

• Map

• Cellphone

Due to the rugged and alpine environment, the weather in the car park at the beginning of the track can differ greatly from conditions 1000 meters higher further up the track. Be prepared to change your plans and turn back especially when visibility is poor or strong winds prevail. [C/O Tongariro Crossing]

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Map C/O New Zealand Department of Conservation

Mangatepopo Car Park to Soda Springs (~1-1.5 hours)

When you leave the carpark, you will start off walking through the scrubby grassland, toward the Mangatepopo Valley. The trail is well-maintained and an easy walk starting off as boardwalks have been build to help protect the fragile environment. Views of Mount Ruapehu will be to the left, and as you round the corner, ominously in the distance, Mount Ngauruhoe comes into view.

Like so many other locations in New Zealand, Tongariro National Park was used during filming of Lord of the Rings. You might remember it as Mordor, where, during the entire trilogy, Frodo and Sam try to get to Mount Doom, aka Mount Ngauruhoe, so they can destroy the infamous ring. Unfortunately, as I stated earlier, the weather was terrible so Mount Doom was not visible during our trek. The next day, however, the weather cleared and there was a beautiful view of Mount Doom in the distance.

Soda Springs to South Crater (~1 hour)

This area of the trek is known as the “Devil’s Staircase” because it is super steep. If you have a clear day, then I’ve heard that view is beautiful. Even on an overcast day, the view looking out over the valley is still breathtaking.

This is a huge contrast from the leisurely boardwalk walk at the start of the trek. By the time you reach the top, you will be breathless!

Remember those layers that I recommended..yes this hike was done on the same day. I think I had enough clothes to change my full outfit like 3 times haha!

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SOUTH CRATER TO RED CRATER (~1 HOUR)

After climbing up Devil’s Staircase, you will continue along a long flat trail that looks like a lunar landscape that you would find on Mars. I don’t have any photos from here as this is where the weather took a turn for the worse.

These are the photos from the official Tongariro Alpine Crossing site. As you can see, the area is gorgeous on a clear day, even in the winter!

At the top of south crater, there are the emerald pools.

RED CRATER TO BLUE LAKE (~30 MINUTES)

Once you reach red crater, you are on an exposed ridge. Once we reached this point, it was -3 degrees C with winds up to 45 mph. It was literally insane. Due to the loose rock and sand, we were crawling at one point up this ridge with the volcanic crater to our right and a dropoff to our left. We could not see more than 2 ft in front of us. It was a very scary situation.

BLUE LAKE TO KETETAHI SHELTER (~1 HOUR)

KETETAHI SHELTER TO KETETAHI CAR PARK (~2 HOURS)

PACKING GUIDE FOR THIS TREK:

Disclaimer: This list contains Affiliate Links for products I’m currently using. By using these links you won’t pay any additional fees but support me to keep this site running!

The packing list below are the necessities for a trek on the Tongariro Alpine Crossing. The weather is unpredictable and can change quickly, so I recommend to pack in layers to be most comfortable.

CLOTHING

• Thermals (Base layer) - I like Thermotech or Hot Chilly’s

• Waterproof Jacket and Pants (I like this Northface Gor-Tex but Frogtoggs are the cheapest, most economical option.)

• Mid-layers

  • Fleece Pullover

  • Hot Chilly’s Half-Zip Pullover

• Outer-layers

  • Warm Vest

  • Jacket

  • Hat (Preferably fleece-lined) and gloves

• Hiking Pants (I like these Columbia ones or these Eddie Bauer ones)

• Hiking Socks (My absolute favorite! They are double-layered to prevent blisters.)

• Hiking shoes (Great resource for hiking boot reviews here)

  • Timberland Women’s Mt Maddsen Mid Leather Waterproof Hiking Boot

  • Merrell Moab 2 WP Low Hiking Shoes - These are my personal favorites, although, they are very heavy.

• Sunglasses

• Refillable Water Bottle - This one is nice because it has a clip to clip to your bag and also it compresses so packs down easily.

• Coola Sunscreen - My fav!

• Waterproof phone case

• Headlamp

• Camera

• Go-Pro

• DJI Mavic Pro

• Extra SD Cards

Paros

Blue Oyster
Ampelas
Tel: +302284052707

At Blue Oyster bar/restaurant in Ambelas you will find a variety of fish, delicious starters, Mediterranean dishes and fresh oysters. It opened in July 2020 and in its dishes it hosts the best that the Parian sea and land has to offer. Fresh fish and shellfish, Cycladic products and locally farmed meat, are transformed into wonderful creations in its kitchen, which will not disappoint even the most demanding. Its environment is exactly what you are looking for on your vacation: A beautiful terrace overlooking the endless blue, air awnings, comfortable seating, finesse from end to end. The menu is of the same philosophy – familiar flavors, teased so as to highlight the top raw materials, elegant presentations, meat options and fish.

Cuore Rosso
Parikia
Tel: +302284022920

At Cuore Rosso, you will enjoy a culinary experience in true Italian style! Hre pizza is the queen!

Every product used in the kitchen is carefully selected from the most excellent Italian produce. The menu features a wealth of traditional Italian dishes: stuffed calzones, delicious lasagna, carpaccios, typical Italian platters of regional cold cuts accompanied by the famous fried 'gnocchi' and, finally creamy 'burrata' with truffle, delicious buffalo mozzarella and fresh salads with many tasty combinations! 

Galazia Hytra
Summer Senses Hotel
Tel: +302284093000

In collaboration with Michelin star restaurant Hytra (Athens), Galazia Hytra welcomes guests within the premises of Summer Senses Hotel indulging in an evening of fine dining under the Mediterranean stars. The team at Galazia Hytra invite guests to taste a menu of unique dishes representing the best of creative Greek cuisine with an international twist, updating classic recipes with modern techniques and exceptional raw ingredients.

Henri G
Parikia
Tel: +302284024407

Established in a unique neoclassical mansion built in 1890 and located in the centre of Parikia’s old Market Street. On its exclusive balcony, guests can enjoy an elegant dinner while shoaling up the atmosphere of the traditional market, by observing the goings-on in the streets below and enjoying the view on the dome of the “Aghia Triada” church. Chef Henri Emmanuel Guibert is half Greek and half French. He is presenting an elegant and sincere Mediterranean cuisine, with a discrete touch of French inspiration, using local selected products from Paros.

Sigi Ixthios
Naousa
Tel: +302284052639

Favorite meeting place for ouzo, fresh fish and seafood at Naoussa port. The menu is a smart blend of Mediterranean and Greek fish restaurant cuisine and uses local ingredients imaginatively. Freshness is what matters above everything else here. The location in the quiet side of the harbor of Naoussa offers magnificent views of the yachts in the marina. Try the beans with red sauce, a really tasty Greek recipe!

Siparos Seaside **** My fav
Naousa
Tel: +302284052785

Siparos serves the culture and flavor of Paros with a creative, contemporary twist.

We blend authentic Mediterranean tastes from local ingredients to make own-label products and traditional dishes, reimagined for the modern diner.

Mario
Parikia
Tel: +302284051047

Mediterranean cuisine and with target on quality, organic and fresh products with local aromas and tastes of the Aegean culture. Their cuisine uses local groceries, daily fresh fish and of course with the help of the weather, they offer best sunsets, with great food and refined wine. 

Mr. E
Parilio Hotel
Tel:+302284051000

Parilio connects with the local parian cuisine and pays tribute to old traditional recipes and local produce seen through the eyes of Mr. E, a global explorer of today, that anchored in Paros to connect his past with the present. While soaking in the calmness and relaxing surroundings, your stay will be enriched by subtle pleasures and a wealth of culinary diversions prepared by celebrated Chef Alexandros Tsiotinis.

Tsachpinis
Naousa
Tel: +302284051300

Right in the center of the small port of Naoussa operates fish restaurant Ouzo Seafarers Tsachpinis.

Situated directly accessible from each side of Naoussa and seafront provides the opportunity to enjoy other dishes, spaghetti with seafood, fresh fish, handmade, traditional dishes cooked with love.

Barbarossa
Naousa
Tel: +302284051391

Barbarossa has a history in Paros. Its kitchen has served celebrities, members of royal families, people who have written history. But the ingredients remain simple. They are the building blocks of Greek island gastronomy. The foods that Paros produces. Barbarossa's kitchen is Paros, on a plate.

Les Amis
Pounta Port
Tel: +302284051110

Wine bar restaurant with fine Mediterranean cuisine combined with gourmet flavors. Options from fine dips and dishes can accompany your drink. The magnificent balcony of the wine bar Les Amis will enchant you.

Klarinos
Lefkes
Tel: +302284041608

If you are looking for a break from fish, Klarinos in the beautiful village of Lefkes is the best place to try simple and wholesome Greek food. This is clearly a meat taverna, so make sure you try the succulent barbecue spare ribs, bifteki or sausage. For vegetarians, dishes like spanakopita and fried zucchini offer a delicious alternative. A budget choice with excellent value for money.

Ouzeri Halaris
Piso Livadi
Tel: +302284043257

Fresh fish and an endless list of fish appetizers by the port at Piso Livadi. 

Soso
Naousa
Tel: +306974878281

Located in a quiet cobblestone alley in the picturesque port of Naoussa, Soso prepares high-quality Greek fusion dishes that have made it the culinary queen of the town. Soso is perfect for a dinner for two and for those who like traditional Greek cuisine with a modern twist. The wine and beer menu are varied and well thought of. Dishes like the haloumi cheese with honey, the lamb in lemon sauce and the slow-cooked pork are among the most popular.

Markakis
Piso Livadi
Tel: +302284042177

“Markakis” restaurant is located in the eastern part of Paros in the beautiful and picturesque port of Piso Livadi. The hospitable space combined with the wonderful traditional Cycladic meze plates and the affordable prices we provide create the ideal backdrop for the visitor. In our place you can try seafood, meat and vegetables dishes of high gastronomic interest as well as dishes with special flavors and Cycladic scents. Enjoy your lunch and dinner ideally with the new list of ouzo and Greek spirits as well as the wine list where you can find Greek labels always looking at the picturesque harbor of Piso Livadi.

Mediterraneo
Naousa
Tel: +302284053176

Favorite meeting place for ouzo, fresh fish and seafood at Naoussa port. The menu is a smart blend of Mediterranean and Greek fish restaurant cuisine and uses local ingredients imaginatively. Freshness is what matters above everything else here. The location in the quiet side of the harbor of Naoussa offers magnificent views of the yachts in the marina. Try the beans with red sauce, a really tasty Greek recipe!

Monastiri Beach Club
Monastiri Beach
Tel: +302284053560

Monastiri Beach Bar & Restaurant is a real-life utopia on Paros Island that shows its visitors how to experience life in a holistic and sustainable way. Whether someone is looking for a gastronomical adventure or just a place to indulge in the coolest summer activities, our venue, our services, and our staff can accommodate the most important moments of your life and satisfy everyone’s high standards and lavish needs. Get lost in our summer utopia and explore a side of life in unprecedented style.

Thalassa mou
Alyki
Tel:+302284091461

Thalassa mou offers fresh Greek Mediterranean cuisine. Home made creative dishes by owner chef Marios Salmatanis that are unique on the island. Extensive wine list.

Yemeni
Naousa
Tel: +302284051445

Greek traditional cuisine. During your walk in the picturesque alleys of Naoussa you will find Yemeni, a traditional tavern operating since 2007 with respect to quality and tradition. The menu includes mainly homemade specialties cooked with passion and fresh ingredients, most of which come from the owners’ farms. Traditional Parion omelette (strapatsada), lamb cooked in the wood oven with potatoes, cured beef served with cheese & tomato, meatballs with tomato sauce (soutzoukakia), stuffed cabbage leaves with rice & meat, and many more will certainly not make your choice easy. Do not miss the octopus with fava beans.

Antiparos

Captain Pipinos
Agios Georgios
Tel: +302284021823

Located at Saint George beach and overlooking Despotiko bay, Captain Pipinos is one of the most famous restaurants of Antiparos serving fresh fish and delicious seafood dishes. 

Klimataria Tavern
Chora
Tel: +302284061061

Greek traditional food

Sapou
Chora
Tel: +302284061165

Famous international cuisine restaurant

Lollo’s
Chora
Tel: +302284061215

Great pizza that tastes authentically Italian!

Vassilenas Blue
Antiparos Town
Tel: +302107210501

Vassilenas Blue brings to Antiparos the same prize-winning tastes and the hospitality tradition of the most historic Greek restaurant. Vassilenas was established in 1920 and is run by the same family for three generations. In Antiparos, away from the big crowds, we will be sharing our modern Greek cuisine and our love for fish, seafood, Greek wine, and relaxed hospitality. We are looking forward to welcoming you around the big olive tree that dominates our beautiful courtyard.

Samano
Chora, Kouros Village Hotel
Tel.+302284061497

Self-described as ‘’refined gastro’’, Samano restaurant is a new arrival in Antiparos dining scene. Mediterranean and Greek cuisine with a twist along with an interesting wine and cocktail list.

Santa Pacou
+30 6972424104

In the purely Cycladic setting with white tables and handmade decorative details adding their own touch of elegance, Santa Pacou is a traditional Greek cuisine restaurant with a modern twist and creative curiosity. King of experience, the traditional wood oven, which dominates the beautiful balcony and bakes incessantly kneaded bread, pies, local meats and much more.

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Contact me to help with your custom Greek Itinerary today!

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I just returned from an amazing two week island hoping journey through Greece. On our last stop, we stayed on the island of Crete in Chania. Domes has a couple of properties in Chania - Domes Zeen Chania, family friendly and Domes Noruz, adults only.

Domes Zeen Chania is where we stayed and we enjoyed their half board program. We took advantage of breakfast and pool-side lunches so that we could experience all of the dining options in town.

The resort is located on a pebbly beach close to Chania town. We rented a car to be able to explore on our own but the hotel also offers a shuttle into town for 10 euro each way.

Their pool was amazing for kids as it started really shallow and then gradually became deeper. It was awesome as Charlie was able to swim on her own for the most part. The kids all loved playing together so she was definitely warn out by the end of the day! This resort is amazing for kids with a ton of family friendly amenities - kids club, playground, swimming pool, beach, and a lounge with snacks!

We stayed in the Family Villa 2 Bedroom Private Pool which was perfect for us. This resort is really large and built into a hill. This villa was located at the top near the Haute Living area but also the furthest away from the pool and beach. Not to worry though, the resort offers golf carts that will come and pick you up to take you where ever you need to go.

C/O Domes Zeen Chania

The food was very good here with a lot of options for breakfast and pool-side lunch or snacks. Service was excellent as well and the bartender can make a very good (very spicy) bloody mary!

Overall, we loved our stay at Domes Zeen Chania and we are already planning a trip to go back!

I would love to book this fabulous property for you and your family today! Send me an email at lauren@thatblondetravels.com or fill out my contact form to get started!

Or you can always VIP yourself using my booking link here (Send me an email for the password).

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Araxovoli

Kamares

Tel: +302284032362

Tasteful fish tavern located right at the port of Sifnos.

Cantina

Seralia Beach

Tel: +302284035395

Built on the rock of Seralia beach, the old scenic village cantina maintains its traditional appearance and, today, contains the gastronomic treasure of the amazing chef Giorgos Samoilis. Cantina restaurant overlooks the crystal-clear waters and the Cycladic houses of the famous Kastro, offering unforgettable moments of relaxation and enjoyment. The hospitality is unique, and the food is absolutely amazing following a zero waste philosophy.

Bostani

Verina Astra Hotel, Poulati

Tel: +306981723727

Lying at the heart of a garden with fragrant herbs and plants, overlooking the endless blue of the Aegean Sea, the Bostani Bar & Restaurant is the perfect spot to savor fine Greek cuisine with a creative approach to the culinary heritage of Sifnos and the Aegean region. Get the opportunity to reconnect with simple, traditional tastes, yet elevated by high-level cooking techniques. Combine it with the summery and relaxed atmosphere of this unique location for the ultimate fine dining experience on the island.

Drakakis

Apollonia

Tel: +306972123571

Drakakis kafenion is a fixture on the Sifnos food scene. Located in the heart of Apollonia along the main paved lane, it is one of the island’s oldest coffee houses. Greek coffee, home-made sweets, and meze are served at the relaxed pace that underscores the old world aura and the absence of items like filter coffee or espresso from the coffee menu. Drakakis is a hangout for locals and visiting celebrities, a place where people stop by to catch their breath and experience the Greece of yesteryear.

Gerontopoulos

Apollonia

Tel: +302284031431

Since 1950, in the mornings, locals sit and chat over thick Greek coffee and traditional pastries.

Kelari

Kato Petali

Tel: +302284032268

A short walk from Apollonia just off the main road is this traditional, family-run taverna that’s been serving local Sifnian cuisine since 1988. Known for its meat dishes and hearty meals cooked in an old wood-fired oven, you can sit in the courtyard under vine-covered pergolas or inside surrounded by olive oil-processing artefacts. 

Lempesis Tavern (Chrysopigi)

Artemonas

Tel: +302284071295

Located right on the beach and under the trees, you can enjoy a bit variety of starters including the traditional dishes “mastello” and “rovithia”. The chef is considered by the locals as the young ‘Tselementes’.

Tsikali

Vathy

Tel: +302284071150

Right by the mole with the church, with tables on the sand only 3 meters away from the beach, you can enjoy amazing ‘gemista’ and other ‘mageirefta’ with self-produced meat and probably the best myzithra in Sifnos. 

Omega 3

Platis Gialos

Tel: +302284072014

In a place that does not fill your eye, on the sandy beach of Platys Gialos the chef George Samoilis and Giannis Arvanitis curated the wine list created an oasis of fine multicultural fish food.

Mama Mia

Apollonia & Platis Gialos

Tel: +302284033086 

Chef Filippo with his son Pietro, create the best pizzas in the area!

Maiolica

Platis Gialos

Tel: +302284071428

Maiòlica offers a light, refreshing and healthy food experience, just a few steps away from the sea. The menu is based on authentic, local ingredients from both Sifnos and around Greece. Each dish is prepared with knowledge, passion and balance, reflecting the diversity of culinary cultures from across the Mediterranean.

Nos

Nos Hotel & Villas, Faros

Tel: +302284028957

Inside the elegant NÓS Hotel & Villas in Faros, Sifnos you’ll find the homonymous restaurant with the kitchen's focus on local ingredients and familiar flavors of Greece. The extensive list includes fresh raw dishes, amazing appetizers, fresh salads, and well-cooked main courses with juicy meats and fresh fish and seafood. 

Limanaki

Faros

Tel: +302284071425

Every morning, George Kakakis’ fishing boat returns to the serene port of Faros and supplies his family restaurant, Limanaki Fish Tavern, with whatever bounty the sea had to offer. Tables here are on the water’s edge beside small, wooden boats. Before you order, ask to see the catch of the day. Look for the blue table covers and explore Faros’ three beaches while you’re there (Fassolou, Faros and Vlycho).

Rampagas

Apollonia

Tel: +302284032215

The owner/chef Vassilis Kallidis, created an interesting menu with new flavors based on the Greek Mediterranean cuisine and especially the Cycladic traditional gastronomic flavors. The restaurant combines the aura of the island with carefully selected Greek wine brands.

If you’ve tried any of these, what were your favorites?

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