"Sun, Sea and Souvla" Top 5 Page for this destination Prefecture of the Cyclades by planxty

I first went to Greece backpacking with my guitar in 1987, spending a few days in Athens and then travelling around the Cyclades Islands. I fell in love with the place instantly, an affection that remains to this day.

In the intervening years, I have managed to acquire a long term girlfriend, although how she puts up with me is anybody's guess. She is Greek Cypriot.

Early in 2004, she managed to track down a long-lost cousin of hers through the wonders of the Internet, and he promptly invited us to stay with him over Easter on the island of Ios. I didn't need to be asked twice, I can tell you.

These chapters are devoted to this trip.

• Pros:Great climate, friendly people,
• Cons:Can get crowded and rowdy (especially the ferries) in high season
• In a nutshell:Come for the sun, come back for the love of the place.