Greece is the word: How to go island-hopping

Simon Calder's Travel Week

SUBSCRIBE SUBSCRIBE: £1 FOR 3 MONTHS May 28, 2023 View in browser SIMON CALDER'S TRAVEL WEEK Island escapes you'll be Greeking out over There's no shortage of Greek islands – so where should you start? Is there such a thing as too much choice? The many Greek islands – more than 200 inhabited outposts across six distinct regions – have such depth in options that it could present a (first world) problem. But there's nothing to fear: we've got a bumper guide to the best islands to visit, including the most effective routes to hop between them, and when to visit. Whether you want unspoiled nature or ultimate glamour, Greece offers it all – with plenty of fun on the mainland to be had, too, if you inexplicably tire of island life. New island links On Friday Jet2 began direct flights from East Midlands to Santorini, while on Tuesday British Airways will start flying from Gatwick to Corfu. On 3 June easyJet launches a link from Belfast International to Rhodes. QUIET CORFU Faster ferries This is the first summer in which Aero fast catamarans have been in service for Hellenic Seaways. They sail in the Saronic Gulf, linking the port of Piraeus with the islands of Poros (pictured), Hydra and Spetses in faster times than ever. FIRST TIME POROS Question of the week   Question of the week Suggestions, please, for a Greek beach holiday for a single lady, leaving from Edinburgh? This coming summer the Greek destinations available direct from the Scottish capital are Athens and Thessaloniki on the mainland plus the island destinations of Crete (landing in Heraklion), Kos and Rhodes. Of those I recommend Crete. Heraklion is not the most beautiful location on the biggest Greek island, but I recommend a full day there. Make an early start to explore the astonishing (if over-restored) ancient city of Knossos. Engage a guide to make the most of the ruins. Later, as the day warms up, the air-conditioning in the Heraklion Archaeological Museum will be a blessing. Cultural highlights ticked off, you can escape to the beach. About an hour's drive west of Heraklion (or 75 minutes on the regular and reliable buses), Rethynmon is an appealing seaside resort with a good beach.   Getting off the beaten track in Crete   Even better, venture the same distance east to Elounda. This tranquil location has a good beach fringed with tavernas, plus small and friendly places to stay. To seal its appeal, Elounda comes with two intriguing day trips. One is along the coast to the small port city of Agios Nikolaos, well worth exploring. The other involves a boat to the offshore island of Spinalonga – a Venetian settlement, once a leper colony, that is rich in history and intrigue.   Domes of Elounda, one of the finest resorts in Crete Get up to £466 off a stay in Crete The offer from easyJet includes flights and hotel for holidays to the village of Aghia Marina  Use Avios points to book a BA holiday Members of the Executive Club can now redeem their points on the cost of a flight and hotel  Save up to £400 on a Jamaica holiday Sandals is offering discounts at the Dunn's River resort that opened this month £99 £20 for 1 year ✓ Full access to Premium news analysis ✓ Advert-free reading across web and app ✓ The Independent Daily Edition newspaper ✓ Puzzles, virtual event tickets and more SUBSCRIBE NOW Top spots Unbeatable Greece From family-friendly holidays in Corfu to history-packed city breaks in Athens, here are the top destinations in Greece for a trip that suits you.   GET INSPIRED Bucket list Phuket done right There's a reason why Phuket remains the top of the Thai tourism game. From beachside boutiques to swanky hideaways, find your perfect place to book. READ MORE You could go to Greece 20 summers in a row and barely scratch the surface of its pretty landscapes Lucy Thackray Greece expert Hotels Luxury in London Want to make sure your next stay in the UK capital oozes with style? These luxe London hotels are the ones to consider. BOOK NOW Under the spotlight City living British cities make for fine short breaks, whether you're after roaring nights out or culture-packed museums. Check out our round-up of the best. SEE OUR PICKS Where to stay: The best hotels in Greece, from Athens to Santorini Away from the beaches: How to hike the 52km Naxos Strada trail Why Syros should be your next stop: This low-key Cyclades island boasts farm-to-fork dining, sleepy coves and boutique hideaways The best sunscreens for babies to protect their sensitive skin on holidays and sunny days at home SHOP NOW These 11 fake tans will give you a golden glow all year round – from mists and creams to lotions SHOP NOW We noticed that you might not be registered By registering, you will enjoy limited access to Independent Premium articles, commenting, and virtual events with our leading journalists REGISTER FOR FREE OTHER NEWSLETTERS YOU MIGHT LIKE Climate News Every Friday, 12pm (UK time) Written by Louise Boyle Join now IndyEats Every Saturday, 7am (UK time) Written by Hannah Twiggs Join now Climate News Every Friday, 12pm (UK time) Written by Louise Boyle Join now IndyEats Every Saturday, 7am (UK time) Written by Hannah Twiggs Join now The Independent proudly partners with Refuge and the National Domestic Abuse Helpline: 0808 2000 247 If you can spare a minute we'd love your feedback on our newsletters. 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