Just when travel magazines have crowned Ibiza the new Mykonos, the proverbial pendulum has swung again and here we are, back in Greece. The new Greece—Euro-ed (i.e., more expensive than ever) and hip-ified—has followed in the fabulously flip-flopped footsteps of its posh tourist base. Be prepared. If you think that hitting Mykonos will be a twenty-four hour spa retreat, head right back to Sonia Dakar, because this party island is exactly what it’s supposed to be: loud, crowded, and deadly for early risers.
This doesn’t mean that you can’t “vacation” in Mykonos. I bunked at the swanky Mykonos Grand Resort outside of Mykonos Town. Staying outside of town means that you can achieve a truly relaxing beach experience. Perched in the hills and hanging its heavy (and probably hung over) head high above the sea, The Mykonos Grand Resort is complete with salt-water pools, a five-star restaurant, and a private beach. The rooms, each with a separate entrance and large balcony, are more spacious than many island hotels, and the Grand’s multi-level complex is reminiscent of many resorts throughout Cabo San Lucas (think Las Ventanas and the one and only Palmilla).
If you are sans auto and staying out of the main town, you’ll have the privilege of taking Mykonos’ infamous charter-style bus. Sandwiched between backpackers and billionaires, I spent the ten-minute ride to town in bliss as we sailed over hill after hill and past some of the most breathtaking beaches in all of Europe. The twists and turns of Mykonos’ rustic white alleys transform this bevy of debauchery into its own little Venice—romantic, serene, and seemingly never-ending. Shabbily chic bars (such as El Pecado) built above the main harbor are sprinkled with candlelight and North African style touches—rugs, Moroccan lanterns and Arabic trance music permeating the stunning locations. Unfortunately, showing up before 1:00 a.m. might brand you “out of the know,” so make sure that you avoid nightspots until at least after midnight. Before then, you should be eating, of course. Sale e Pepe and Mamacas (sister to the Athenian restaurant) are sure to satiate you with traditional Greek delights (tzatziki and lamb), but with Euro-style touches in presentation and heightened taste.
