Thomas dreamed of a vacation "without the smell of Eastern Europe": the places I visited are unforgettable

Seeking an escape from the "smell of Eastern Europe" often associated with mass tourism, the author embarked on a journey to the Greek islands, prioritizing less-traveled destinations. While popular islands like Corfu, Crete, Kos, and Rhodes are easily accessible and heavily marketed, the author aimed for a more authentic experience, finding it on islands like Mykonos, Naxos, Ikaria, and Paros.

Mykonos, though increasingly popular with celebrities and the wealthy, still offered local shops and tavernas away from the main tourist hubs, despite high prices for amenities like bottled water. From Mykonos, the journey continued via ferry to Naxos, serving as a base for exploring other Cycladic islands. The "island hopping" experience allowed for visits to multiple islands daily or spending extended time on one.

The author describes simple pleasures: sandy beaches, labyrinthine village streets, Greek cuisine, and tranquility. Ikaria is presented as an "oasis of longevity," where residents reportedly live exceptionally long lives, attributed to the island's beauty and relaxed lifestyle. The prevailing atmosphere across the visited islands was one of summer heat combined with a "no stress" vibe, aided by gentle northern breezes that kept temperatures pleasant.

Even in quieter spots like Iraklija, with limited accommodation and tavernas, the focus was on relaxation. The article touches upon the local approach to business, where shop owners might not adhere to strict opening hours if it causes stress. Travel between islands was facilitated by ferries and local buses, offering access to remote areas and providing real-time schedule information via QR codes at some stops.