Opting for early retirement meant that our work/life balance was about to change for the better.  Why not spend the first year travelling, a sort of gap year in middle-age? Okay, driving to a Greek island isn’t wildly adventurous and we didn’t intend to rough it with tents and backpacks but it would be a great way to begin our travels.

Why Skopelos?  We first visited in 1993 and it quickly became special for us.  Five years ago we even held our wedding there.  Situated in the west Aegean Sea, it is stunningly beautiful with pine-clad mountains, secluded beaches and water so clear you can see your shadow below as you swim.   The lifestyle is traditional and laid-back, the perfect place to unwind and contemplate this new phase in our lives.

The journey was part of the holiday so we laid careful plans, poring over the maps to find interesting places to stay en route.   We intended to make the most of our brief visits.  At the very least we wanted time for a walk and a civilised dinner in the evenings.  We limited the driving to an average 350 miles a day. After all, there was absolutely no rush.

Six overnight stops seemed realistic.  We settled on two each in France and Italy, with the fifth on the overnight ferry from Bari to the western port of Igoumenitsa on the Greek mainland.  From there, a day’s drive over the mountains took us to Volos in eastern Greece for a final night and a boat to Skopelos the next day.

Our first stop was the delightful city of Reims in northern France, famous for its thirteenth-century cathedral and champagne, both just crying out to be sampled.  We explored ancient Notre-Dame de Reims, where Joan of Arc watched Charles VII being crowned.  Later, relaxing over a glass of champagne and some great French food in the square, we couldn’t help feeling our gap year had got off to an excellent start.

Chambery, on the French/Italian border was next.  A popular winter ski resort, its most famous landmark is Fontaine des Elephants, the elephant fountain. Built in 1838 in honour of a townsman who amassed a fortune in India, using it to help his home town, the monument is a startling sight.  It depicts the huge front legs of four elephants arranged in the shape of a cross.  The locals hated it at first but eventually came to appreciate its strange charm.

After another al fresco evening of red wine and excellent food we were beginning to feel rather smug about our choice of sleepovers.

Next day we headed for Italy through the Alps via the Mont Blanc and Frejus road tunnels.  In spite of spending quite a few miles in the dark, we still saw plenty of spectacular mountain scenery and tiny alpine villages. The alternative was to drive over the Alps – not a good idea in a right-hand drive car.

Our first Italian destination was a real discovery.  The small medieval town of Urbino sits high on a hillside in the Marches region.  There is such a wealth of places to see that we were spoilt for choice.  We contented ourselves with the Ducal Palace and its fantastic collection of Renaissance paintings.  Urbino has a thriving university founded in 1506 and the town was full of students returning for the autumn term so the beautiful squares buzzed with life.  Another visit is definitely on our list.

Back on the freeway the next day, we headed to Mattinata in Puglia. Approaching via an ugly industrial area, our first impression was disappointing.  It was siesta time and only a couple of scraggy dogs were out and about in the scorching street.  This choice might be a mistake.  Still, three out of four wasn’t bad and a siesta was a good idea.

Peering out of our window that evening, we realised how wrong we’d been.  The little town had come to life.  The main street teemed with families dressed to the nines, out for their evening promenade.   We were a bit of a curiosity with our halting Italian, but wine was brought, along with a continuous supply of tempting snacks – crisps, olives and wonderful savoury pastries and fruit.  Dinner would have been excessive so we stayed where we were and simply watched the world of Mattinata go by. 

Next day we headed to Bari for the twelve hour overnight crossing to Greece.  We expected this to be the most boring part of the journey.  Wrong again! It turned out to be a service for truckers from all over Europe who mostly knew each other so there was quite a party atmosphere.  

We were the only car passengers and our right-hand drive Golf, sandwiched between huge Turkish and Croatian juggernauts, attracted much pointing and bemused shoulder-shrugging. We eventually got to bed, after spaghetti bolognaise and beer in the canteen.  We slept like logs, waking to see the Greek mainland on the horizon.  

We were in Greece!  Now we just had to drive cross-country from west to east, a mere two hundred and twenty miles. Greek friends advised that it would be slow going and full concentration was needed for this terrain.  They were right.  It took the whole day, over eight hours, yet was never tedious. Time flew by as we passed through stately mountain ranges and an ever-changing vista of canyons and lakes.  No sooner did we reach the bottom of one mountain pass that another one loomed. Truly we had never seen scenery to match this.

Our Greek friends also told us to look out for Meteora in Central Greece.  We couldn’t miss it.  Meteora means “suspended in the air” and is a strange, breathtaking sight - massive grey pinnacles of smooth vertical rock jutting straight from the mountain, sculpted by wind and water over centuries.  The really mind-blowing thing is that in medieval times Greek Orthodox monks built monasteries on the very top of the peaks, some of which are still in use today.

After one more overnight stop in Greece’s eastern port of Volos, a mere seven days after leaving home, four countries, more than two thousand miles and three ferries later we drove the car off the boat in Skopelos.  The sun was shining, the sea sparkled, and all was just as we remembered. 

That evening we went to our favourite taverna, Perivoli, where we held our wedding reception five years ago.  There was more than the usual buzz and Reginos, the owner, was in a state of high excitement.  No wonder.  At the next table sat Meryl Streep with Pearce Brosnan and Colin Firth!  Skopelos had been chosen as the setting for Hollywood’s version of Mamma Mia.  We weren’t the only ones to think it would be the perfect place for a wedding – though we beat the film-makers to it.

Since then the gap year has included visits to Spain, Sri Lanka and Rwanda.  It seems set to continue.  As we sink deeper into our English winter my husband has started to talk wistfully of visiting the orang-utans in Borneo.  Watch this gap!

David and I had been together twenty years when we finally decided to tie the knot - well we didn't want to rush into it!

He was fifty-three, I was forty-seven.  We were both previously married and had five grown children between us.  Over steak and red wine one cold January evening we decided to get married in the sun in our favourite place, the tiny Greek island of Skopelos.

Our Greek friend agreed to help us with arrangements and the date was set for June 12^th.

The kids were delighted that we oldies had decided to do the decent thing at last.  Three of them had beaten us to it! 

Plans began immediately to fly over to be with us.  However, my son and his wife wouldn't be able to make it as there was to be another big event for our family. Our first grandchild was due in February.  Reluctantly we agreed that four hours on a plane followed by a ferry trip was a bad idea with a tiny baby and all the necessary paraphernalia.

We were quite a gathering, with family and friends from England, Germany and Greece.

The night before the big day my daughter insisted we eat dinner at one of the traditional tavernas down by the harbour.  No-one objected as this was a favourite place where you could sit and eat "Shirley Valentine style" a foot from the water's edge. 

As we sat in the warm night air beside the inky blue water we heard the familiar sound of the last boat of the night honking its arrival.  We watched idly as a few weary travellers alighted, hauling suitcases and assorted baggage. 

Wasn't there something familiar about that tall young man and the slim blonde girl?  They certainly seemed to have more luggage than anyone else. And wasn't that a stroller that another passenger was helpfully lifting down? 

Here was our beautiful granddaughter, Molly, sleepy but with a wide gummy grin for her stunned grandparents.  Months of secret planning and organising had gone into this most wonderful wedding surprise.

I shall never forget that moment with its mixture of disbelief and dawning delight. I hadn't realised until then how much I would miss having this little family with us. 

With hindsight, it was a good thing the kids kept their plan to themselves.  I would have worried and fretted, as grandmas will, about every aspect of travelling with such a small person, but she was here now and how we were going to enjoy having her at our wedding.

It was a perfect day.  Molly, decked out in a pink party dress, slept peacefully throughout, much to the frustration of the Greeks who love babies and wanted to play.

Of course, she doesn't remember anything about it.  She's six now and completely fascinated with the story of how she was guest of honour at the grand age of four months!

You could think the internet can cut the costs of the travel agent, but you might be incorrect. If you are a daring sole to plan your vacation to the Isles without the assistance of a travel agent you might be unpleasantly surprised.

Travel agents not only give travel info, they have personal experiences that can make your Greek trip more memorable. Most travel agents have been or know someone personally who has traveled where ever you are going for a vacation.

I am not trying to be your travel agent, but just letting you know some of the great sights to see with some helpful hints along the way.

Try to allow yourself at least a week in Greece. It might look small on the map, but there is much to see. The Greek Isles, buy cruise ship, are a wonder all by themselves. If you only have limited time, pick one and you won't be sorry no matter which one is chosen.

Stay at a well situated hotel so you can see the sights you want to view. Closeness to most sights will greatly help with transportation costs. If budgeting your trip to Greece, consider all components in your hotel selections. You might have to share a tub/ shower with an entire floor should you select economy accommodations. That can't be all bad, since people have different routines. Bring some toilet covers and Clorox wipes so you will be comfortable. With tongs on your feet to protect from personal annoyances, you can save big if you are willing for that sacrifice. A view should not be a consideration unless you plan on spending so much time inside your hotel room. Many high hills give you splendid views of many sightseeing points. This will save greatly on your everyday expenses.

This brings me to an area of caution. The taxis are abundant and not all reputable. Consult with the taxi cab driver to establish the fare you will be paying. Double take on the confirmation to be sure. Do not pay until the entire trip is satisfied. If you have agreed on a round trip fare, reserve payment until your return is accomplished. Get everyone and your possessions out of the taxi before paying the final bill. Sometimes the cab driver thinks he got messed up with his fare and will drive away with packages in the trunk or a person still sitting inside.

All the Greek food is delightful. Get ready to enjoy Gyros you never thought were possible. The portions are considerably smaller than Americans are used to, so bring a little extra to fill you if needed.

Try learning at least one word of Greek so you can state something to someone in their native language. Don't be surprised if you did your studying so well, that they start talking to you in Greek too. This where a smile will help so much.

The Parthenon can be seen from a distance, but the up close visit is much encouraged. On a quiet day, when few people are visiting that sight, you might be able to truly envision you being there in the years when it was an active, useful structure. It is strongly advised not to pick up anything on the grounds. People are hired to keep that confiscating to a bare minimum. This also allows the rocks to be in place for many more decades for others to enjoy also. If you are an avid hiker, you will enjoy the accent and decent as well. For those less up to a medium skilled hike, take a taxi part way up and down. For anyone no able to walk much a taxi up and back is recommended.

There are no bad days to go to Greece. Go, have fun and take lots of pictures to lengthen your trip there, when you get back home.

Greece was also the winner between 51 countries of a previous contest held in 2005! Those 3 "cyan medals" will be awarded to the mayors of the municipality that those beaches belong by Greenpeace .

So here are the winners!

Porto Katsiki, Apollonion Municipality of Leukada

Indeed a great beach. Crystal clear waters and perfectly clean beach. Never heard bad comments about this beach from tourists.

Myrtos, Pylarion Municipality of Kefalinia

Located in one of the biggest Islands of Greece, Myrtos is known for the perfect waters and the rich marine life. The golden sand is perfect for a sand castle and sand therapies!

Agios Prokopios, Municipality of Naxos

Naxos is one of the most beautiful greek Islands. It has many beaches but Agios Prokopios stands out!

Of course there are more great beaches like Nauagio in Zante and Kalogria in Achaia but they didn't stand a chance in getting in top 3!

Hope you can visit those beaches someday and write your comment about them!

Greeks take a lot of pride in their life as well as their products. The most obvious secret is that everything is home grown, caught that morning and prepared fresh daily. It is also prepared like their grandmothers and grandfathers before them. Traditions are kept alive and therefore the food remains unbelievably good from generation to generation.

Baked feta with tomatoes, garlic, olive oil and green peppers.

Wonderful afternoon lunch of baked feta, fish soup and grilled octopus.

A light desert called Ravani that tastes like a very sweet pound cake. Usually served with ice cream.

Appetizers of shrimp, crawfish, tuna, octopus brains and anchovies.

And where do they get all of these “fresh” products. Well, at the open air markets of course.

Most holiday packages offer additional diversions, with boat trips, a Greek Night and a tour or two. If the ancient oracle at Delphi is on offer I heartily recommend that you leave the beach towel to dry out for the day and take the trip. Delphi is a fascinating site in a beautiful setting. It was known throughout the ancient world as "the omphalos" or navel, because the Greeks perceived Delphi to be the centre of the world.

According to legend Zeus released a couple of eagles, one where the run rose and the other where it set - the pair met up over Delphi and a large conical stone "the omphalos" was appropriately placed to mark the spot.

Flickr. Omphalos

You will find the ruins of the ancient sanctuary in the foothills of Mt. Parnassus, about one hundred kilometres west of Athens and overlooking the Corinthian Gulf.

However, visitors to Greece a century ago would have been hard pressed to find Delphi. It was, after all, 3,000 years old and times had moved on. French archaeologists discovered it in 1892. Even old Zeus, if he was still in Olympus looking down on the ways of men, must have admired their determination. There was a village on the ancient site which first had to be moved, lock stock and barrel, before excavations could begin.

Thanks to their mighty endeavours you can now walk the smooth rocks of the Sacred Way that led to the temple of Apollo, the principal deity of Delphi. He arrived, according to legend, on the back of a dolphin. Treasuries containing tribute to the god originally lined this route. They were temple-like constructions and one of them, the Athenian Treasury, has been reconstructed with some of its original blocks to give a good idea of how these buildings must have appeared.

Flickr Athenian Treasury

You can see the foundations, steps and several columns of Apollo's great temple which have survived the ravages of time and shakings of earthquakes. Close to the temple of Apollo is the amphitheatre which is still fairly intact, the acoustics are amazing.

Flickr Temple of Apollo

The oracle at Delphi was renowned in the ancient world and consulted by the rich and mighty as well as humbler souls. It was a spiritual centre where it was believed that the gods were able to speak to mortals via the medium of a priestess. Her strange utterances were translated by a priest wise in the ways of the world and politics. The priests' ambiguities kept their customers happy and the treasuries full.

It is best to visit Delphi before the heat of the day. You cannot avoid climbing, indeed you will not want to do so. The stadium is high but the view is majestic. When you leave the site linger awhile and visit the nearby Castalian Spring to slake your thirst and cool your feet. It was here that the priestesses of Delphi ritually cleansed themselves before attendance at the temple.

Although the oracle has long gone, Delphi has retained its spiritual atmosphere. Perhaps it is simply the beauty of its situation, or the majestic "Shining Rocks" rising protectively above. It has drawn men since the dawn of history; a place where people have come with their questions, seeking reassurance for their fears and confirmation of their hopes.

For all these reasons you will remember a visit to Delphi long after the rest of your holiday has faded into one long sun-drenched blur.

I lay resting in my bed, my mind wandering, dancing with dreams, drifting in and out of sleep and then I heard the sound of the island coming to life and the waves gently lapping against the shore and it woke me. For Corfu was waking up and I was going to miss it. As I made my way down the dimly lit streets, winding in and out of hidden corridors, wiping the sleep out of my eyes and searching for coffee, I found another early riser to share a cappuccino with. Not speaking at all but speaking volumes, we both recognized the importance of watching the sun rise, sipping our steaming, frothy cappuccino, drinking in the view and truly waking up. Having a few of these precious moments in the morning to enjoy such diminutive pleasures is a unique experience. My newly found comrade poured a smidgen of kumquat liquor in his cracked, lopsided, porcelain mug and gave me a wink. It was an instant that captured the epitome of Corfu and the engaging character of its inhabitants.

Entranced at the light creeping up the colossal structures and radiating a golden, silver, pink hue over the entire city, I was spellbound by such raw beauty. Corfu came to life and so did I; it was going to be a beautiful day here. But it was still early and slightly chilly and the morning air was brisk with excitement as I set off to explore and let the daylight bring me to life.

With no map, no guidebook and no initial plan in mind, I meandered around the marble streets for hours stumbling upon unusual finds, ancient buildings and exploring obscured pathways seeing where they led me. Spianada Square is another locale that offers delightful carriage rides, bell towers, charming cafes, old wrought iron benches, vintage bookstores and is host to annual cricket matches. Not capable of sitting still, I set off for the esplanade. Leisurely walking along the promenade the sidewalks became smaller and the buildings all came to a point as if they were leaning towards the echo of the sea. This is where many prominent scholars, painters and poets, such as Dionysios Solomos, came to reflect, gather their thoughts, create and inspire.

As I made my way through another undiscovered, cobble-stoned side street of the Village of Kassiopi, I overheard the heartbreaking hymn of a man singing deep within his soul as if he had lost something he deeply cherished. A mourning perhaps or maybe it was prayer. My curiosity was aroused. Following this cry through the passageways, listening to the wind and inquisitively peering around corners, I was getting closer. Just then, the words became noticeably louder and the song more poignant. I knew I had found him. I stepped into Saint Spiridon's Church and discovered this soprano with his eyes closed, kneeling on the ground, hands spread out to his sides performing his daily ritual of prayer and homage to the Saint. The only illumination that shown through, was from the myriad of vibrantly decorated, stained-glass windows that adorned this church.

This Saint is so special to the citizens of Corfu that a few times a year his remains are carried around Spianada Square in a somber demonstration to memorialize his life and marvel at his munificent miracles. This Ionian style Greek Orthodox Church is one of the greatest religious monuments in Corfu. Completely at peace after listening to the solemn melody, saying my hail mary's and confessing my sins, I bowed my head in respect and made my way back out to the light of day.

As I looked up towards the vast cerulean skyline, watching the clouds glide leisurely by, I saw the Old Fortress archeological site. This is truly a momentous structure as it is positioned high on the cliffs of Figareto that seems to stand guard, like a big brother, over Spianada Square. The fort is currently linked to the island by an iron suspension bridge, but use to be completely separated by a wooden drawbridge and maritime moat. Exploring the citadel and its distinct design and affluent history, takes you back in time when the Venetians ruled this region and fought for its freedoms.

It was becoming dusk and my mind was full. There are various typical tourist attractions in Corfu, but the complexity of this island and its people lies within the cold, stone walls of its primitive buildings, in the morose song of the prayer, marble walkways, inimitable iron works and in the depths of the Aegean.

For additional information on Corfu please visit:

• http://www.corfu-greece.biz
  
• http://www.agni.gr
  
• http://www.greeka.com/ionian/corfu
  
• http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=8905
  
• http://www.greektourism.com/?langID=2

Australia

I have all ways been fascinated with Australia. While a continent its only one country that is a large island, and with some amazing land features. I have wanted to drive through the outback and camp there my whole life. Then I could go to the Sydney Opera House and watch a world class opera. There are so many things I can do in Australia.

New York, USA

New York City has everything you would want to do. You can visit huge sky scrapers, historic sites, amazing Broadway shows, or even watch the Yankees play baseball. I have never been to a large city like New York and I think it would be great to go to one day.

These are just two of my dream vacation destinations. I hope I can make these trips one day, but if not it was still a good dream. You need to make your dream vacations a reality also.

These are locations that will provide an experienced or modest traveler with a one of a kind stay. Enjoy!

Gamirasu Cave Hotel

Gamirasu Troglodyte Hotel is located in the heart of Cappadocia, Turkey near Urgup. The hotel boasts 18 rooms that have been completely restored and reopened in 1999. The hotel is situated in a retreat that has been there for over thousands of years. This hotel is a perfect honeymoon and wedding destination.

Marqués De Riscal

This luxury hotel located in Elciego, Spain is nestled in the "City of Wine". There are 43 guest rooms, including 11 suites that overlook the spectacular views of the country. There are fantastic restaurants, an indoor swimming pool, indoor Jacuzzi, and 14 spa rooms specializing in "wine therapy" treatments.

Blue Lagoon in Iceland

This lagoon is one of Iceland's most inimitable attractions. The lagoon uses geothermal seawater that is scientifically known to clear the complexion and aid in healthy skin. The trip will be a purely spiritual one filled with nature, scenery, and air that is clean and fresh.

Daintree Ecolodge

Located in Queens land, Australia, this resort is nestled in one the oldest living rain forests boasting 15 lovely villas in a tree house setting. It perfectly secluded for romantic honeymoons and secret rendezvous'.

Magic Mountain Hotel

Located in Panguipulli, Chile this lovely secluded hotel contains 13 rooms, and 11 cabins that can easily accommodate 4-6 guests. The name of the hotel was derived from Commander Pepe who called this hotel his home in the 70's and 80's.

Machu Pichu Sanctuary

This ancient hotel boasts some of the most spectacular views of this historical Inca settlement in Cusco, Peru. The lodge is the only hotel located within the sanctuary of the Manchu Picchu Ruins. It has 29 rooms and 2 suites which have the most spectacular views of this sacred place.

Woodland Park: The Hobbit Motel

Located in Otorohanga, New Zealand, Woodland Park is more like a motel for the more modest traveler. Woodland Park has 3 amazing options for sleeping quarters that include a "1950's Bristol Freighter Plane fully refurbished into 2 beautiful self contained motel units." A 1950's Rail Carriage spectacularly redesigned into a completely self enclosed unit. The last sleeping quarter is an underground motel known as the "First Hobbit Underground Motel" with spherical glass windows.

Quinta Real Zacatecas

A part of history is reborn in Zacatecas, Mexico where the 17th Century San Pedro bullring has been converted into a luxurious hotel. The hotel faces the city's primeval vaulted suspension bridge.

Hotel Puerta América

Located in Madrid, Spain this hotel boasts a different design on every floor depending on the taste of the guest. There are 12 floors and each and every room was created by a different designer so make sure you do your research before visiting. The front desk will provide a list of different floor plans when you check-in if you are unsatisfied with the room you were assigned to.

Kakslauttanen Hotel and Igloo Village

Located in Lapland, Finland these glass globes are offered for guests that would prefer a cold or warm night sleep. There are 31 cabins that are situated quite close to the Arctic Ocean and the Urho Kekkonen National Park

Propeller Island City Lodge

Located in Berlin, Germany this hotel is packed full of amazingly designed architectural rooms. There are 30 rooms that are all instinctively unique. Depending on your idiosyncratic and adventurous taste, you will choose your ability to have a one of kind stay.

Check out 10 Spectacular Resorts around the Globe for some more Travel destinations.

Welcome to the tour, enjoy.

"Cocoa Island, in the Maldives, is home to a 23-room hotel owned and designed by Christina Ong, with architecture by Cheong Yew Kuan. The suites, which resemble local dhoni fishing boats, rest on pine poles set into the ocean floor. Steps lead from each suite right into the water." This location is perfectly private for recent honeymooners.

Udaivilas

Located along Lake Pichole in Udaipur, India, Udaivilas occupies 30 acres and offers 90 rooms, including some very luxurious guest suites. The pool, featured in this picture, borders the guest's rooms and measures more than 800 feet in length.

"It's a juxtaposition of old and new," Peter Silling says of Schloss Velden, the historic castle on Lake Wörth in Velden, Austria, and its new addition, whose interiors he designed. The modern, U-shaped wing, by the Viennese architectural firm Jabornegg & Pálffy, wraps around the rear of the castle, which was originally built by Bartholomäus Khevenhüller. Above: Black marble, custom-ordered for the suite, adds a mirrorlike reflection to the bath.

St. Regis Resort

St. Regis Resort Bora Bora, set on a motu, or islet, on island's coral reef, was created as "a kind of village," says the architect, Pierre Lacombe. Villas, secluded by palm groves, wind along the beaches. On its own island in the lagoon is the Royal Estate, a 13,000-square-foot villa. (April 2008)

Otahuna Lodge

A Queen Anne style house designed by architect Frederick Strouts in 1895, near Christchurch, New Zealand, is now an exclusive seven-suite hotel. Otahuna Lodge's owners, Hall Cannon and Miles Refo, recently renovated the property. They worked with a team of gardeners and consultants to revive the grounds.

Hôtel de la Paix

"I wanted to build on the history of the place," designer Bill Bensley says of the Hôtel de la Paix, in Siem Reap, Cambodia, which was reconstructed in the Art Déco style on the site of the 1950s original. A porte cochere frames the entrance. The hotels amenities trump its competitors by providing guests with a once in a lifetime spiritual visit. I don't know what that means but, it sounds amazing.

Gran Hotel Son Julia

Located in Mallorca Spain this beautifully constructed countryside hotel has 25 lovely
guest rooms and suites , 2 Turkish baths, 3 pools, a gym, 2 restaurants, 2 tennis courts, and an 18 hole golf course just minutes away.

Peninsula Palace Beijing

Modern architecture meets luxury at this 5-star hotel providing every amenity your heart desires. "The hotel also features the most prestigious shopping arcade in Beijing; the Peninsula Arcade includes 50 exclusive designer boutiques." The hotel was designed by Chhada, Siembieda & Associates

Ice Hotel

The Ice Hotel is located in Quebec Canada. This featured theme suite called "Quebec
400"features animal skins for blankets. The ice hotel is built differently every year but, something does remain the same. Each year, the hotel is built with "5oo tons of ice and 15,000 tons of snow" carved into one of the most fascinating hotels on earth. They keep it pretty cozy at 23° to 28° Fahrenheit. However, when you're not freezing your behind off, you can enjoy the many amenities featuring a chapel, a movie theater, an outdoor hot tub, and a bar. You're going to need a bunch of hot chocolate to get through this, I assure you.

Blue Palace

Blue Palace is situated just 3 km away from the village of Elounda and within a few hundred meters of the fishing village of Plaka. The hotel is surrounded by the blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea and sits opposite the isle of Spinalonga.

"Spinalonga's story dates back to the Venetians and Turks, conquerors of Crete, and is nowadays a unique historical attraction protected by the Greek Society of Byzantine Antiquities."

If you loved these travel destinations, check out some more locations for some fun and exciting ideas for travel:

• 10 More Travel Destinations around the Globe
• Mysterious Scottish Island and it's History
• Scenically Breathtaking Springs