Greece | Traveling Solo in a Romantic Island, Santorini

Santorini, Greece is recognized as one of the most romantic places in the world but despite of what it’s known for, I managed to travel there alone. It has been my dream to witness the sunset in Santorini and I wouldn’t mind going there on my own. Maybe for some people, they find it a little awkward to wander around a place they thought surrounded mostly by couples expressing proudly of their love and intimacy. But trust me, when I was there I’ve seen a lot of soloist and soul-searching travelers too. Thus, Santorini is a place for everyone! And even if I was there by myself, I enjoyed every single bit of it.

Going to Santorini was my second international solo trip. From Larnaca (LCA) Cyprus, it’s only about 1 hr and 15 min travel by air if direct flight but if via Athens, it will take 4hr and 50 min. Direct flights from LCA are normally offered from June to September only. They say the best time to visit Santorini is September until October when the weather is not that warm and not that cold. It’s just perfect for sunbathing and sightseeing. I went there on the first week of September this year and luckily it was not crowded at that time.

Santorini is a separate island situated in the south-eastern part of Greece. This island is in fact a remain after the enormous volcanic eruption occurred 3,600 years ago at the height of Minoan civilization. The locals were able to think on their feet and created a beautiful destination out from the ruins. Bravo! Greeks are truly artistic and they have showcased their amazing works of art through this island.

I stayed in Antonia Apartment Hotel in Fira, the capital of Santorini and it's very close to the airport, around 25-min drive. What I like the most about this hotel is that its location is perfect. It is close to all that I need – restaurants, banks, shopping center, bus terminal, museums, convenience store, fruit market, coffee shop, etc. They also offer a lot of affordable tour excursions and one of which is the Sunset Tour in Oia. I was able to meet the owner and he was so friendly and accommodating just like all of his staff. I would definitely book the same hotel if I will come back in Santorini.

Antonia Apartment Hotel

One of the pools inside the hotel and this is close to my room

   
Based on my experience, Santorini is a very safe place to roam around at any time of the day. I tried going out for a walk at 5AM and also went out for late dinner at 11pm. All those time, I never felt scared or unsettled. Locals and even tourists are very friendly. You can easily make friends there if you want to. I got lost one time searching for the bus terminal going to Perissa and one lady just smiled and asked me if I need help. Locals there are seemingly trained to know if someone is lost and they are just ready to help instantly.

Inside the Catholic Cathedral Church of Saint John The Baptist

   
Contrary to what most people think, traveling in Santorini is not that costly. Well, unless you prefer to stay in a 5-star hotel, shop in luxurious shops and dine in deluxe restaurants. But for me, I travel just on the budget – let’s say enough to experience and create memories. With an average budget of 50 Euros per day, I was able to eat in a good restaurant, drink a local wine or beer and shop a little to buy some souvenirs. I was able to travel from Oia down to the Red Sea in Akrotiri without paying an exclusive day trip tour. For me, you don’t need to be that extravagant to enjoy Santorini or anywhere in the world. You just have to make a well-thought plan and everything will be just fine and fun!

Fried Feta Cheese and a plate of Santorini Salad (18 Euros)
I was eating this with an overlooking view of the Fira Harbour :-)

These cute souvenirs cost around 5-15 Euros only

Local wine is a must-try! You can buy a bottle for less than 10 Euros depending on it's brand and kind.

   
Also in Santorini, you will not feel shy to ask someone to take a photo of you. Most of the tourists there are after of a good photo and they will do whatever it takes to capture the best picture of themselves possible. I’ve met a lot of solo travelers and bloggers where they randomly asked anyone to take a photo of them. Hence, I didn’t feel shy to ask anyone for myself as well. It just feels normal there. :-p 

I’ve always known Santorini since I was a child. It has become a dream destination of mine as I always see it in almost all travel magazines and online sites. Not to mention, my sister and I are avid readers of Greek Mythology and I somehow believe that Santorini could be the lost city of Atlantis. So going there was a dream come true for me. Never would I've thought that at this age, I'd be able to see in person the sunset in Santorini - an image I always gawk whenever I see it. It is really stunning!

Traveling in Santorini alone is probably one of the best things I’ve done so far this year. Though I had setbacks at the beginning, I realized that in life, if you want something to happen, trust your instinct and believe that you can do it on your own. I did it so I believe you can do it too. Cheers to solo travelers! :-D

Behind me in this picture is the most photographed church in Santorini.
It is called "The Three Bells of Fira"

   
Stay tune for my next blogs as I will be posting more about Sunset in Oia, Sunbathing in Perissa and my short trip in the Red Sea in Akrotiri!

Sunset in Oia

Perissa Black Sand Beach

Red Beach in Akrotiri