Misstropolis

Thursday, April 17, 2008

Greece Simplified

by Robin Hauck

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Greece isn’t all about hedonistic partying on Mykonos. For a quieter Hellenic escape, head to Afitos on the Chalkidiki Peninsula in northern Greece, a beautiful, sun-kissed island without any pretenses.

Top four reasons to visit:

1. The architecture: Spared from being tastelessly overbuilt with concrete, anonymous buildings like other parts of the peninsula, Afitos is full of beautifully preserved, old stone houses.

2. The atmosphere: The cobblestone streets are full of tasteful shops, bars and tavernas. If you really want to get the full picture, head to the plateia (main square) and people watch. A quick visit to the small church rewards the curious with divine quietness in which to admire centuries-old icons. And a well-deserved break with ouzo and mezedes (the Greek equivalent of tapas) at one of the picturesque tavernas overlooking the bay helps even the most restless to slow down and sample life the Greek way.

3. The sea: The best way to savor the moment is to order an ice-cold, creamy Frappe (the inescapable whipped coffee, considered a heart-starter here), while braving the heat on the beach, or have a mojito by candlelight at Pounta Beach Bar. Pounta Bar is also an ideal base for an early swim – just make sure it coincides with the returning fishermen selling their daily catch on the beach. It’s a feast for the senses.

4. The art of good eating: For a simple, tasty lunch head for Fedon’s taverna on the beach, where fish is unfailingly fresh. For a late dinner indulge in the tastes and smells of the sea at Curo Siwo (the grilled octopus and fried squid are a must). And if you still crave a more sophisticated Mediterranean setting, pay a visit to Sousourada. Rumor has it that a famous Greek chef opted for the simplicity of Chalkidiki and set up his business in the village.

While in town sleep at Hotel Afitis. There’s direct access to the beach and a pool.
Area-Daily is an upscale modern travel company based in Los Angeles. To find out about other out of the way travel ideas, visit area-daily.com.