Follow me to the Greek Islands … Mykonos

Have you ever travelled somewhere that’s had such an impact on you that you feel like you should never leave? Like you are meant to be there in that exact moment? And that no matter how much you see, you just can’t get enough? This is the Greek Islands for me. After exploring the best of Europe two years in a row now, I definitely feel like I have conquered the continent and am ready to explore new places. In saying that, the one place I would go back to in a heartbeat is Greece. I honestly feel like Greece is made for me … I loved every single thing about it and would love more than anything to explore the other, smaller islands that make up this incredible part of the world.

My first stop in Greece, besides the one night we spent in Athens (which is an incredible place by the way), was the famous island of Mykonos. Whenever someone says “Greek Islands” I think all of us immediately picture those amazing tumblr and instagram photos that look too good to be true – with the unique white and blue buildings and incredible crystal clear beaches. Let me just tell you, you won’t be disappointed in the slightest, everything you see is exactly like a postcard. Those instagram pictures you’ve been lusting over can actually become your reality.

Hiring a quad bike (or ATV), is an absolute MUST when visiting any of the greek islands. As all of the islands are pretty small, there is no better way to explore the whole island then hiring out a bike and visiting all of the hidden gems and beaches across the coast line. The most incredible and fun-filled day for me was zipping around with my bestfriend to all of the beautiful little beaches, only stopping for a gyros (the most amazing 2 euro kebab you will ever eat) and to snap some incredible photos. Most of the beaches in Mykonos have great entertainment on them as well, so you could easily set yourself up with a mojito in one hand, the beach in your eyes and the beats in your ears for hours. Make sure to also check out Little Venice, a cute little area right near those famous windmills where you can have an amazing meal with an even more incredible sunset view over the water.

I just don’t have enough words to describe how incredible this place is. You HAVE to add it to your bucketlist. I hope you enjoy the photo’s I captured in my few days here … Be prepared to see a lot of blue and white. As always, make sure to leave me a comment and let me know if you’ve ever been to the Greek Islands, and stay tuned for next week’s post about part two of Greece: Ios and Santorini.

Hawaii Dreaming

So I’ve woken up early this morning with full intentions of heading straight out the door for a walk/run. Except now I am sitting in bed under all of the blankets writing this post because it looks so miserable and cold outside. I am hoping that by the time I finish this post, by some miracle, the sun will be out.

These winter mornings make me want to pack up all of my summer clothes and bikinis and escape to the other side of the world, which got me thinking … That’s exactly what I did two years ago this time! I spent a few weeks in the breathtaking island of Oahu, Hawaii, and became witness to the most incredible natural beauty the world has to offer. Staying right across from the world renowned Waikiki beach, every day was more beautiful than the one before. The water was the perfect temperature every single day, and the sun was shining without being too harsh. I’ve rummaged through my laptop and found the best pics that I took from my stay to share with you all!

If you’re staying in Hawaii, you have to go surfing; it’s basically a requisite. My first surfing experience was surprisingly successful (I may have found my true calling in life), and have always dreamed of giving it another go! You also have to go snorkelling at Hanauma bay, a marine embayment off the coast of Oahu, which is also flanked by several hiking trails that lead to breathtaking lookouts. I will always have a crystal clear memory of a giant turtle swimming right up to me, so close that I was able to touch it. Attending a traditional luau is a great event to experience the traditional Hawaiian culture and gain an insight into how the locals live and celebrate life. Another must is going on a tour across the picturesque coastline and stopping at all of the beautiful beaches, and even the location from 50 first dates! And please, don’t forget to go to the Cheesecake factory for at least 20 meals … I honestly have no words for how delicious the food was haha!

I’m hoping that one day I will be able to go back and visit all eight islands and encounter even more of the stunning views that nature has to offer. But for now, the sun has slightly came out, so I guess that’s my queue to get out of bed!