Mykonos
Mykonos has this mythical vibe to it. I can’t quite put my finger on what exactly mystifies this Greek island. Maybe its the crystal clear blue water, or maybe its the classy electricity in the air every night. Maybe its the picturesque white and blue alleyways or the floating mega yachts. Mykonos is the sexy girl at the club who you can’t lay your eyes off of, and let me tell you-she ain’t cheap. Here’s how we thrived in the Miami of the Mediterranean.
Where to go for a special dinner and dance: Scorpios
Scorpios is the ground zero foodie, hip, hobo hangout. Don't be misled by the cloth garbs and shoeless attire- guaranteed even without shoes the outfits came at a high price tag. The property is sprawled amongst a seaside cliff, with a multi-tiered format, each level seamlessly integrated into its natural surroundings. The dining experience is nestled in the sand, overlooking the ocean, underneath a woven roof, set to distant sounds of house music playing from the DJ booth. Chose your wine wisely (and frankly, avoid Greek wine) and enjoy a night of perfect bliss with some of the freshest food, music and people the island has to offer.
Where to take an all day excursion to an afternoon lunch spot: Kiki's Tavern
The line is long, but the unlimited rose makes the wait half the fun. The host seems intimidating at first but give it some time and he starts cracking jokes and chatting away. The tavern is perched above a stunning beach cove, which you can walk down to while waiting for your table to be ready. Keep in mind, one person has to wait in line at all times so pick your sacrificial lamb before you get there or decide to take turns. We were advised to get there by noon but ended up arriving on the later side. Honestly, it doesn't seem to matter what time you arrive so long as you don’t mind waiting. But hey, a shady bench with unlimited wine overlooking an incredible viewpoint is not such a bad place to spend the afternoon. We waited roughly 45 minutes and then were seated in the open air tavern. The food and environment was hands down the best authentic Greek experience of the trip. The house white was reasonably priced and good. The salad bar was to die for-my girlfriend, who is a self proclaimed salad enthusiast, found her heaven at this place. Typically, I am steadfast in my dislike of beets and eggplant, but something about this place made me into a changed man and I seriously enjoyed them. As for mains, seafood is clearly a must. Get there early. Wear a bathing suit. Bring a towel and a book.
Where to get classic photos of Mykonos’ alleways: Literally anywhere in Mykonos Town
The town is famous around the world for it’s white washed alleyways and they do not disappoint. No matter where you are in the town, each turn provides a new, just as beautiful alley. Little Venice and the adjacent streets are some of the more photogenic spots on the island for sure though (just avoid eating on the waterfront unless you like paying $20 for a burger).
Where to party like its (1969?): Scandinavia Bar
Going off a recommendation from my dad (yup), this place proved itself to be a timeless hit. We stumbled in around 1:00 am after consuming and entire table’s worth of food at Captains (which I highly recommend even though it is very touristy). The two story bar turned disco was overflowing with people clamoring up the stairs, out of windows, and up the walls. Moms were reliving their college glory days dancing on the bar with their daughters. The place unassumingly parties hard and you are guaranteed to have a blast here no matter who you are.
Where to pretend you’re in Cabo: Tropicana
If you like champagne showers, rowdy crowds and raging music, this is your place. This legendary beach club gets going later on in the afternoon, around 4 pm, and when its going, it is going. Located on the world famous Paradise Beach, Tropicana dominates the scene here, as there are several other clubs down this sinful strip of sand which try and compete as well. Having options was nice, but if you get a drink at one place, you are committed to that club until you finish the drink. Definitely a fun place, but if you’re over 30, I would recommend Scorpios, SantAnna or Nammos.
How to get around the island: Rent an ATV
First of all, do it. A cab ride just about anywhere will cost 30-60 euros one way whereas the ATVs are 50-60 euros for the entire day. Since you've already burned your wallet just by arriving in Mykonos, splurge the extra 5 euros and get the larger ATV that fits two people comfortably. Driving around the town and “countryside” is pretty easy except for the occasional one way roads that make for interesting situations. And honestly, taking our ATV’s to clubs around the island at night ended up being a great choice, as we refrained from getting to drunk and as a result saved $50+ on a round-trip cab.
Where to watch the sunset on your ATV: Kapari Beach
Located on the western edge of the island, this place was truly stunning and almost empty (a rarity on this island). There is a small beach to enjoy if you get there early enough, which we did not, but regardless, the sunset is absolutely next level from this spot. And the drive is pretty fun as well to get here.