Best printers for Home

Best Mixer Grinder

Best wired Earphones

Best 43 Inch TV in India

Best Wi Fi Routers

Best Home Theatre in India

Smart Watch under 5000

Best Laptops for Education

Best Laptop for Students

Sunsets, like childhood, are viewed with wonder not just because they are beautiful but because they are fleeting - Richard Paul Evans. 
 And I could not get over these words as I watched one of the worlds’ most watched sunset at <keyword id="1986784" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="100" keywordseo="OIA">Oia</keyword> (pronounced EE-ah). The sunset here as beautiful as your imagination can take you too. This uber-famous destination is just perfect to see the golden fireball bid you goodbye. 
 As you explore Oia, you get to know that <keyword id="3636831" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="oia-castle">Oia Castle</keyword> happens to be the best spot to watch the sunset. Every day hundreds gather to see this beauty. Though with a great taste of aesthetics it’s a treat for their eyes to see such an incredible sunset. In spite of being notoriously crowded, the very first sight will remain burned in my memory forever. 
 
With the sunset time getting closer you also get to see a lot of crowds, each busy clicking selfies and pictures. Everyone begins to gather at view point well in advance. The steep cliff on one side, people sailing on boats in the Aegean, while few just soaking in the moment - everyone chose their favorites to watch the site. 
 
As the glow of the sun descends, its reflections adds a charm to this island and makes the whole experience much more dramatic and a treat for your tired eyes. The shadow of the Caldera as it falls on the island is nothing less than just being visually pleasing. 
 
Step by step, with every breath you take the sun takes a dip closer to the Aegean you magic right there happening as water turn to shades of yellow, orange and then to fantastic purples. While the houses sees a pinkish glow. Something only which the eyes can capture to last a lifetime. 
 
Though every viewpoint gives you something eternal, it’s a 40 minutes of sheer pleasure to watch “it” disappear in the sea as the magic light fills the sky. And finally to celebrate this spectacle everyone shares an applause. 
 
Don' t forget that the castle is not the only place to watch the lovely sunset, rather if you are in for that romantic set-up, than can book a table in any of the restaurants along the sea that give the best view as you sip some of the finest Greek wine. 
 
Tips: 
 
• Apart from Oia castle also scout the other spots 
• Google and check the sunset time 
• Reach well in advance to grab the best spot 
Oia is very connected from Perissa, Fira and all the other beaches. 
 (This article is authored by Ayandrali Dutta, a <keyword id="6354692" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="100" keywordseo="Travel">travel</keyword> blogger. Check out her blog <a href="http://www.wanderlustcraving.com/">here</a>)

I watched the world's most watched sunset at Oia, Greece and loved every minute of it

Europe is a continent teeming with rich history, diverse cultures, stunning landscapes, and architectural wonders. From bustling cities to quaint villages, Europe offers something for every type of traveller. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, an adventurer, or an art enthusiast, there are countless treasures waiting to be explored. Here are the top 10 places to visit in Europe that should be on every traveller's bucket list: 1. Paris, France Known as the "City of Light," Paris is famous for its iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and Louvre Museum. Take a stroll along the Seine River, wander through charming neighbourhoods like Montmartre, and indulge in exquisite French cuisine at sidewalk cafes. 2. Rome, Italy With its millennia-old history, Rome is a city that transports visitors back in time. Explore ancient ruins such as the Colosseum and Roman Forum, marvel at the artistry of the Vatican Museums, and toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain for good luck. 3. Barcelona, Spain Barcelona is a vibrant city known for its unique architecture, including the whimsical creations of Antoni Gaudí such as the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell. Relax on the city's beautiful beaches, savour delicious tapas, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of La Rambla. 4. Amsterdam, Netherlands Famous for its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and world-class museums, Amsterdam is a city that captivates visitors with its charm. Visit the Anne Frank House, explore the Van Gogh Museum, and take a leisurely bike ride along the city's scenic pathways. 5. Prague, Czech Republic With its fairy-tale-like charm, Prague is a city straight out of a storybook. Explore the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, admire the majestic Prague Castle, and soak in the breathtaking views from Charles Bridge. 6. Santorini, Greece Santorini is a stunning Greek island known for its whitewashed buildings, crystal-clear waters, and jaw-dropping sunsets. Explore the charming villages of Oia and Fira, unwind on black sand beaches, and sample local delicacies such as fresh seafood and fava beans. 7. Florence, Italy Considered the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is a city steeped in art, culture, and history. Admire masterpieces by Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Botticelli at the Uffizi Gallery, and marvel at the beauty of the Florence Cathedral and Ponte Vecchio. 8. Dubrovnik, Croatia Dubrovnik, often referred to as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," is a city renowned for its mediaeval walls, baroque architecture, and stunning coastline. Walk the ancient city walls, visit the filming locations of Game of Thrones, and take a boat trip to the nearby Elafiti Islands. 9. Edinburgh, Scotland Edinburgh is a city that seamlessly blends history with modernity. Explore the cobbled streets of the Old Town, visit the imposing Edinburgh Castle, and hike up Arthur's Seat for panoramic views of the city. 10. Budapest, Hungary Budapest is a city of contrasts, with its grand historic buildings, thermal baths, and vibrant nightlife. Relax in the healing waters of the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, admire the stunning architecture of the Hungarian Parliament Building, and take a scenic cruise along the Danube River. From the romantic streets of Paris to the ancient ruins of Rome, Europe offers an endless array of experiences just waiting to be discovered. Whether you're drawn to the cultural treasures of its cities, the natural beauty of its landscapes, or the culinary delights of its diverse cuisines, a journey through Europe is sure to leave you with memories to last a lifetime. Note: The article is based on content generated by AI models like Bard and Chatgpt.

Europe uncovered: the top 10 places every traveller should discover

<ul class="summary-list"><li>After you see the main sights in <keyword id="13888538" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="santorini" source="Orion">Santorini</keyword>, save time for a lesser-known side of the island, too.</li><li>From castles to a crater and cliffside villages, here are must-visit places in Santorini, <keyword id="6357856" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="greece" source="Orion">Greece</keyword>.</li></ul>Santorini is a magnet for travelers from all over the world looking for incredible things to do and see.On this beautiful island, there are all sorts of things you'll only find in Santorini. Climb to the town's high-flung castle to watch famous sunsets, head out on a boat to see the volcano's crater from the water, or explore a tiny village clinging to the side of the cliff with a labyrinth of winding alleys.I've been spending time here for years and always suggest first-time visitors see the main sights, but make sure to save time for a lesser-known, more authentic side of the island, too.I recommend poking into tiny shops selling komboloi worry beads, stopping for buckets of brine-fresh feta cheese, and visiting one of the island's world-class archeological museums. Here are my favorite places off the beaten path. <div type="image" title="Champagne, glasses, and a bowl of grapes on a table with a white tablecloth on a ship with gray seating and view of the water" height="3000" width="3999" msid="91472045" hostid="261"></div>Catamaran trip from VlychadaAfter several years of watching catamarans sail across the caldera every night at sunset, I finally booked a tour with the local company, <a href="http://www.santorinisailing.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Santorini Sailing</a>. A friend who lives on the island recommended them because they've been offering tours here for several decades. I was expecting the trip to be comprised of crowds of tourists and rowdy kids getting drunk, but this catamaran trip was simply a place to relax, get a tan, and see the sights. Leaving from Vlychada, we crossed the caldera to visit Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni islands. We leaped into the sea and swam in hot springs before enjoying a picnic of Greek salads, cold cuts, and plenty of wine. We finished the day with that famous sunset shimmering across the bay, and I had a brilliant time that I'd gladly repeat.<div type="image" title="Hill with grass and flowers and four people looking out at sea with island. One of the people is pointing toward ocean" height="3000" width="3999" msid="91472046" hostid="261"></div>Santorini Walking ToursMost people explore Oia, Imerovigli, or another town lining the caldera rim when they come to Santorini. But it's well-worth discovering another side of the island with Nikos Botsinis, a hiking guide who spent nearly a decade mapping out the island's best, lesser-known trails.On several sunny spring afternoons, Nikos, the owner of <a href="https://santoriniwalkingtours.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Santorini Walking Tours</a>, took me on hikes along old mule paths leading through the center of the island to discover half-abandoned churches, lost-in-the-past towns, colorful rock formations, and the occasional hidden cove where I swam without another soul in sight. It was a real revelation, and one I heartily recommend.<div type="image" title="Two people on tour of factory with white walls and archways overhead. A wagon of canned tomatoes is in front of one archway and machinery surrounds areas of factory" height="3000" width="3999" msid="91472162" hostid="261"></div>Tomato factorySantorini's tomatoes are <a href="https://www.tomatomuseum.gr/about/our-history/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">famed worldwide</a> and the Nomikos family opened its factory producing tomato paste in Vlychada in 1945.Until the late 1950s, there were nine tomato factories on the island, but as tourism grew, tomato production fell and the Nomikos factory closed down in 1981. Luckily, a few years ago, this industrial space was renovated to create a fascinating <a href="https://www.tomatomuseum.gr/the-museum/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">tomato museum </a>with a café in the courtyard and a hip gallery showing regular art exhibitions.<div type="image" title="Visitors looking at exhibit and taking pictures at museum area with Grecian ruins" height="3000" width="3999" msid="91472166" hostid="261"></div>Akrotiri<a href="http://odysseus.culture.gr/h/3/eh351.jsp?obj_id=2410" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Akrotiri</a> is the Minoan site known as Greece's Pompeii because it was buried under rubble and lava during an earthquake in 1500 BC. Unearthed in 1901, visiting Akrotiri shows how the little-known Minoan people once lived in two- and three-story houses, with underfloor heating and running water, that are still standing. There are also colorful frescoes, huge clay pots and pithoi where they kept food, and excellent videos providing insight into the life of Santorini's ancient inhabitants.<div type="image" title="Blue and white fishing boats with orange detailing rocky cliffs in background" height="3000" width="3999" msid="91472169" hostid="261"></div>Sunset trip with local fishermenAs shown in ancient frescoes on the walls of Akrotiri, fishing has been a way of life for Santorini islanders for centuries.Now, only a handful of locals survive from fishing and selling their catch to the local restaurants, and I highly suggest going out with them at sunset when they pull up their nets or reel in lobster pots. I had a fantastic trip with <a href="https://www.santorini-fishing-tours.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Giorgaros Fishing Tours</a>. The ride in owner Giorgaros' brightly-painted traditional kaiki fishing boat was like a cruise, with great opportunities to fill my Instagram feed with scenic views of the black-lava-strewn center of the volcano at Palea Kameni, below villages perched high up on the rim of the caldera. I helped Giogaros reel in several large pots full of flapping fish and later ate the fresh catch that was grilled and drizzled with a squeeze of lemon and served with a glass of local wine as the boat bumbled back to port.<div type="image" title="Uphill view of grass and purple flowers and staircase with view of ocean and other hill and sunset" height="3000" width="3999" msid="91472171" hostid="261"></div>Hike to the top of Skaros RockYou'll need to be fairly fit, but it's well worth doing this picturesque hike out to the odd, chimney-shaped Skaros headland opposite the clifftop village of Imerovigli. Just be warned that you won't be up there on your own. It's a popular activity, especially with honeymooning couples and Instagrammers.Incredibly, this rock, which was once topped by a majestic medieval castle, was the island's capital until the 18th century. An earthquake destroyed the castle, and while there's little left to remind you of those times, the views over Oia, the Kameni Islands, and distant Thirasia Island make the long hike worthwhile.<div type="image" title="Couple sitting at table eating meal with view of coastline and sea with white chairs in foreground" height="3000" width="3999" msid="91472172" hostid="261"></div>Sunset wine tasting at Santo WinesLike all visitors who come to Santorini, I enjoy those spectacular sunsets over the caldera. But instead of joining the crowds up by Oia's castle, I prefer to sit, sip, and see it in style from <a href="http://www.santowines.gr/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Santo Wines'</a> glass-walled café and tasting room.Book a visit at the end of the afternoon to see the vines that grow coiled like birds' nests, and then sip crisp Assyrtiko whites, Santo's sparkling rosés, or their fruity Mavrotragano reds as you watch the sun slip down.<div type="image" title="View of whitewashed Greek buildings on hill and coastline and a view of the ocean" height="3000" width="3999" msid="91472173" hostid="261"></div>Hike from Fira to OiaIn summer, the main road between Oia and Fira is often jam-packed with cars, tourist buses, and long lines of mules. But if you're relatively fit, there's a far more peaceful and breathtaking way to get between these two points.Best done in the early morning or evening, the fairly flat 10-kilometer hike along ancient cobbled trails via Imerovigli and Firostefani takes around four hours, but the views are so magnificent, you'll hardly notice the distance. There's often a pleasant breeze, but come armed with a hat, water, and plenty of high-SPF sunscreen.<div type="image" title="Brown rocky cliffs overlooking sea on a gloomy day. In the distance, a white lighthouse with silhouettes of people" height="3000" width="3999" msid="91472174" hostid="261"></div>Sunset picnic at AkrotiriOia's sunsets are breathtaking and you'll want to see them at least once, but when you're tired of battling the crowds, you can have a unique and possibly more romantic experience by doing as I do. Stop at <a href="http://www.santorini-wedding-cakes.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">the Petranart bakery</a> in Megalochori to buy wedges of kolokithopita courgette pie and spanakopita (moist egg-and-spinach pie) and enjoy them with a glass of local wine during a sunset picnic at Akrotiri Lighthouse.Built in 1892, this remote watchtower on the island's southwestern tip is reached via a nerve-rackingly narrow road that runs right along the cliff's edge, but once you make it to this high-flung spot, the views are the best I've seen and you'll have that famous sunset (almost) all to yourself.<div type="image" title="Four people with dogs, goats, and a donkey walking in front of coastline" height="3000" width="3999" msid="91472175" hostid="261"></div>Volunteer with animals at SAWAGiving back while you <keyword id="11896628" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="travel" source="Orion">travel</keyword> is a responsible thing to do and also introduces you to another side of local life. I usually go to <a href="https://www.sawasantorini.com/">Santorini's Animal Welfare Association (SAWA)</a>, which was founded in 1992 by a group of animal-loving volunteers to care for stray dogs and cats who can't fend for themselves at the end of the tourist season when cafés and restaurants close down. They also take in donkeys and mules that are often abandoned when they become too old to work.There are generally around 100 cats and dogs and more than a dozen mules in the shelter at any time. I often pop in when I'm on the island and bring carrots for the mules and treats for the dogs, or I'll take them out for a walk on one of the nice paths nearby. Whether you want to stay for a few days and help run the shelter or just drop in for an hour, you'll be warmly welcomed.<a href="https://www.insider.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-traveling-to-santorini-greece" target="_blank" rel="noopener">View Insider's comprehensive guide to visiting Santorini.</a>

I spend every summer in Santorini, Greece. Here are 10 things I like to do when I want a tourist-free, under-the-radar vacation.

<ul class="summary-list"><li>I'm a <keyword id="11896628" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="travel" source="Orion">travel</keyword> writer who has been visiting <keyword id="13888538" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="santorini" source="Orion">Santorini</keyword> every year for the past 15 years.</li><li>I spend up to three months at a time each year reviewing hotels and these are the 10 best places to stay.</li></ul>In my work as a travel writer, I've been visiting Santorini every year for the past 15 years. And while most people might come here for just a few days before hopping to another island, I often spend two to three months at a time each year reviewing hotels.As such, I've gleaned major intel on the local lodging scene that I use to help friends and family choose the right place to stay. To help them decide, I first ask a set of key questions.Do you want to pay extra for a small room overlooking the famous caldera? Or would you prefer a cheaper, larger suite inland? Do you envision an iconic carved-out-of-the-cliff cave room with a private hot tub or private plunge pool (and staggering prices to match), or does it make more sense to pick a resort with shared, but equally impressive amenities? Do you want somewhere romantic, or are you seeking a family-friendly vibe? And, of course, the all-important question in Santorini: If you want spectacular vistas from your room, are you willing to contend with countless slippery steps?Only you can answer these questions, but based on the answer, I can help guide you to the best hotels, from swoon-worthy suites to celebrity-loved resorts and cheaper out-of-the-way hotels. These are the best hotels I've stayed in on Santorini, for every type of traveler. <div type="image" title="Pool areas with palm trees and Greek architecture at hotel" height="1365" width="1820" msid="91472027" hostid="261"></div>NOBU Santorini One of my favorite caldera hideaways for couples, the recently revamped <a href="https://santorini.nobuhotels.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">NOBU Santorini</a> sits off a peaceful side road between Oia and Fira with breathtaking views over both sides of the caldera.The 30 rooms of this Cycladic-style boutique hotel are like cozy, dome-roofed caves with large bathrooms and king-size beds, and there's also a womb-like spa. For me, the absolute highlight is the stunning infinity pool — a sunset dip with a cocktail in hand and endless views is guaranteed to take your breath away.<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/reviews/out?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Fgr%2Fomma-santorini.html" rel="nofollow sponsored nofollow sponsored">Book NOBU Santorini</a><div type="image" title="In-ground pool and white hotel building with stone archway and gray lounge chairs" height="3000" width="3999" msid="91472029" hostid="261"></div>Canvas Oia Epitome<a href="https://magazine.canaves.com/tag/celebrities-in-greece/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">This celebrity-loved</a> gourmet bolthole within strolling distance of Oia's shops and the famed castle is the epitome of luxury on an island where there are plenty of high-end hotels to consider. All of <a href="https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/europe/greece/cyclades/santorini/hotels/canaves-oia-epitome-hotel/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Canavas Oia Epitome's</a> 24 suites and villas are spacious, with stand-alone bathtubs and large, heated private pools, while award-winning chef Tasos Stefatos heads Elements restaurant, offering a sumptuous spin on modern Greek cuisine. But my favorite part about staying here is, because it's away from the main caldera area, there are no steps to navigate and you can park right outside the hotel.<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/reviews/out?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Fgr%2Fcanaves-oia-epitome.html" rel="nofollow sponsored">Book Canvas Oia Epitome</a>Villa MichalisWith just a scattering of low-key tavernas and a small black-sand beach, Vlychada (where the catamarans leave for sunset cruises), is one of the island's more remote spots. That's where you'll find <a href="http://villa-michalis.hotels-santorini-greece.com/en/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Villa Michalis</a>, with its good-sized pool and cheerfully painted comfortable (but not luxurious) rooms. It's one of my favorite options when I want to stay away from the crowded areas of Santorini and it's an excellent budget option, too. Rooms are cheap and a continental breakfast is included in the price.<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/reviews/out?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Fgr%2Fvilla-michalis.html" rel="nofollow sponsored">Book Villa Michalis</a><div type="image" title="Black chairs and table by a rug with a black and white floral print in front of bed with black headboard and white sheets and a chandelier above" height="3000" width="3999" msid="91472031" hostid="261"></div>Opera Mansion For wow factor and strong romantic appeal, I don't think you can do better than <a href="https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/europe/greece/cyclades/santorini/hotels/opera-mansion-hotel/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Opera Mansion</a>. This spectacularly distinctive villa is perched along the cobbled backstreets of Fira town, and housed in what was once (some 200 years ago) Santorini's opera house. Photogenic features include a blood-red indoor heated pool, a large "his and hers" steam room, and a private wine cellar where you can order a romantic dinner cooked to your specifications.<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/reviews/out?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Fgr%2Fopera-mansion.html" rel="nofollow sponsored">Book Opera Mansion</a>Santorini SkyPrivacy is just about impossible near the caldera, where hotels are crammed against one another, and your seemingly private plunge pool or terrace is often overlooked by the neighboring hot tubs and restaurants of about a dozen different hotels.But standing well away from the crowds on the island's highest hill, and within strolling distance of shops and taverns in the traditional village of Pyrgos, <a href="https://santorinisky.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Santorini Sky's</a> six hip villas are real hidden gems. Each includes a large infinity pool and a full kitchen, and there is also a geodesic dome where you can enjoy a pre-booked romantic meal beneath the stars.<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/reviews/out?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Fgr%2Fsantorini-sky-pyrgos.html" rel="nofollow sponsored">Book Santorini Sky</a><div type="image" title="A blue infinity pool and white hotel building with lounge chairs overlooking sea" height="3000" width="3999" msid="91472032" hostid="261"></div>Astra Suites It's a long hike along a slippery cobbled mule path to reach this lovely family-friendly spa hotel, but I promise it's worth it, not only for the views over the caldera and Skaros Rock (among the best you can get) but also because of the fantastic service. <a href="https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/europe/greece/cyclades/santorini/hotels/astra-suites-hotel/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Astra Suites</a> was actually one of the island's first cave hotels (created back in 1985), but the 22 recently renovated rooms and suites are large and comfortable (some have heated plunge pools) with cute terraces where you can sit and enjoy those stunning views.<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/reviews/out?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Fgr%2Fastra-suites.html" rel="nofollow sponsored">Book Astra Suites</a>Chez SophieClose to some of the island's best beaches and with ample comfort for a short stay, this family-friendly beach beauty is a great choice if you're on a budget. <a href="http://www.chezsophie.gr/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Chez Sophie's</a> 12 rooms are grouped around a kidney-shaped pool and are fairly spartan, but I found the beds to be supremely comfortable, and if you're like me, you don't come to Santorini to stay in your room. There's no restaurant (although a generous breakfast is included), but it's steps away from hip cafés and seafood taverns lining the black-sand beach of Kamari, and there are regular buses to Fira and Oia.<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/reviews/out?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Fgr%2Fchez-sophie.html" rel="nofollow sponsored">Book Chez Sophie</a><div type="image" title="Bird's eye view of pool and lounge area of hotel with umbrellas and chairs and a beach below" height="3000" width="3999" msid="91472033" hostid="261"></div>IkiesOn an island where cave rooms are two-a-penny, <a href="https://ikies.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Ikies</a>' sumptuous grotto suites that cling to the edge of the caldera really stand out, not only because they are incredibly stylish, but also because of the gourmet in-room dining menu, which I found to be quite convenient after returning from a long day of sightseeing.Just a 15-minute stroll from the center of Oia, the 13 rooms (10 with whirlpool baths) have domed ceilings, tiny windows, pretty caldera-view terraces, and some have antique furnishings. <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/reviews/out?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Fgr%2Fikies-traditional-houses.html" rel="nofollow sponsored">Book Ikies</a>Youth Hostel Anna On an island where very cheap accommodations are fairly rare, <a href="http://hostelannasantorini.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Youth Hostel Anna</a> is a reliable choice that's only a 20-minute bus ride from Fira and just across from a black-sand beach and Perissa's funky bars and laid-back tavernas. There are brightly painted dorms with bunk beds (up to 14 beds) but they also have private rooms facing a small swimming pool. But the thing I like best about this no-frills hostel, which has been a backpacker HQ for several decades, is the fact that it's also a great place to meet fellow travelers.<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/reviews/out?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Fgr%2Fyouth-hostel-anna.html" rel="nofollow sponsored">Book Youth Hostel Anna</a><div type="image" title="In-ground pool with two tan cushioned chairs in front of wall with two windows and stone wall" height="3000" width="3999" msid="91472035" hostid="261"></div>Carpe Diem A far cry from Oia's surging crowds, but within easy reach when you want to mingle with them, this bijou adults-only boutique retreat on the edge of a traditional hilltop makes an ideal base for sight-seeing. Unlike many hotels on the caldera, <a href="http://www.carpediemsantorini.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Carpe Diem's</a> cave-style rooms and suites are spacious, and bathrooms have huge bespoke cement tubs. There's also a glittering infinity pool overlooking fields and vineyards, and the restaurant serves tasty dishes, including my favorite, the meltingly tender chicken cooked in the local <a href="https://santowines.gr/wines/vinsanto" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Vinsanto wine</a>.<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/reviews/out?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Fgr%2Fcarpe-diem.html" rel="nofollow sponsored">Book Carpe Diem Santorini</a><a href="https://www.insider.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-traveling-to-santorini-greece" target="_blank" rel="noopener">View Insider's comprehensive guide to visiting Santorini.</a>

10 swoon-worthy hotels in Santorini with cliffside cave rooms and infinity pools that are also affordable, according to a professional hotel reviewer

<ul class="summary-list"><li><keyword id="1864633" type="PERSON" weightage="60" keywordseo="Influencer">Influencer</keyword> Katie Giorgadze recently shared an <keyword id="819905" type="COMPANY" weightage="60" keywordseo="Instagram">Instagram</keyword> video that showed dozens of people at a popular <keyword id="914748" type="CITY" weightage="60" keywordseo="Santorini">Santorini</keyword> tourist spot. </li><li>Almost no one in the clip — taken at Oia Castle during sunset — appears to be wearing a mask.</li><li>Giorgadze told Insider that she "was very shocked by the number of people at the location." </li><li>But locals told Giorgadze, who says she was on a work trip, that the island was at 50% occupancy compared to last summer. </li></ul>Watching the sun set into the sea from the village of Oia is at the top of <a href="https://www.insider.com/santorini-greece-where-to-stay-to-avoid-touristy-spots-2020-3">every tourist's Santorini bucket list</a>. And although the global pandemic is still very much a reality, one <keyword id="6354692" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="Travel">travel</keyword> influencer showed that tourists are still flocking to capture <a href="https://www.insider.com/crete-greece-hotel-overwater-bungalows-like-maldives-much-cheaper-2020-8">the picture-perfect moment</a>.<a href="https://www.instagram.com/katie.one/">Katie Giorgadze</a>, 27, shared an Instagram video with her 706,000 followers that showed dozens of people at the site. Almost no one appeared to be wearing masks. "We went to watch the famous Santorini sunset," she wrote in the caption. "This is the behind the scene that most of the influencers didn't show you!" Giorgadze — who runs <a href="https://www.instagram.com/katieoneapp/">a photo-editing and travel app</a> — told Insider that she knew <a href="https://www.insider.com/cave-house-cycladic-oia-greece-airbnb-photos-2020-6">Oia</a> Castle is one of the most popular places to watch the sunset in Santorini, so she was nervous about visiting the spot during a work trip with her husband. "I knew that the crowds are insane and I didn't want to be stressed, so we preferred to stay at our hotel and enjoy the views," she said. <div type="image" title="Santorini influencer" height="2667" width="2000" msid="77730268" hostid="261"></div>But Giorgadze, who is based in Paris, said many of the locals told her and her husband that the island was <a href="https://www.insider.com/greece-under-the-radar-places-where-you-can-avoid-tourists-2020-6">far emptier than usual due to the pandemic</a>. "They told us that the average occupancy on the island at the moment was about 50%, taking into account that the end of July is normally one of the busiest times of the year," she said. Since there were far less tourists — plus no cruise ships — the locals said that this summer was actually "the best opportunity to enjoy Oia without crowds," Giorgadze added. So, on their last night in Santorini, Giorgadze and her husband decided to give it a try and made their way to the castle. <div type="image" title="santorini influencer" height="2500" width="2000" msid="77730271" hostid="261"></div>"I must say, I was very shocked by the number of people at the location," Giorgadze said. "If it wasn't busy for locals, I can hardly imagine how busy it was in previous years." Giorgadze said they arrived a little early, but she already saw tourists trying to secure spots and get in line for photos. "Not a lot of travelers were wearing masks," she added. "That's why we decided to stay a little bit separately and to wait for the sun to disappear behind the horizon. Once the sun set in the sea, the majority of the people started leaving the castle and we could get closer to the view and take pictures stress-free." Although she was somewhat overwhelmed by the crowds at Oia Castle, Giorgadze said she felt safe <a href="https://www.insider.com/greece-travel-cheap-buy-one-flight-get-one-half-off-2020-7">during her trip in Greece</a>. <div type="image" title="santorini influencer" height="2667" width="2000" msid="77730275" hostid="261"></div>"The staff everywhere always wore masks and took all the necessary precautions all the time," she added. But Giorgadze found that the safety precautions in <keyword id="6357856" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="Greece">Greece</keyword> were far more relaxed in comparison to Italy, which she had visited just a few weeks beforehand. "We did a road trip in northern Italy and all the places we visited felt extremely empty no matter whether we were in small villages or big cities," she said. "We really felt like we were the only tourists. That's why we weren't expecting a lot of people in Santorini this year." "If we compare the level of precautions taken in Greece with Italy, people on the streets were much more relaxed in Greece," she added. "Unlike Italy, wearing a mask was not forced on tourists inside buildings and on streets, but since everyone was keeping distance I guess it was OK — except during the sunset in Santorini." Greece officially reopened its borders to European tourists on July 1, but it recently began announcing new restrictions as coronavirus cases started rising. The country <a href="https://www.usnews.com/news/world-report/articles/2020-08-10/greece-records-highest-new-daily-coronavirus-cases">recorded 203 cases on August 9</a>, its highest number of new daily COVID-19 cases since the pandemic first started. At the time of writing, Greece has had 8,819 coronavirus cases and 242 related deaths, according to <a href="https://coronavirus.jhu.edu/map.html">Johns Hopkins University of Medicine's COVID-19 dashboard</a>.<a href="https://greekcitytimes.com/2020/08/24/restrictive-covid-19-measures-imposed-on-lesvos/">Greece implemented a number of restrictions</a> in over a dozen regions and municipalities — including Santorini — on Monday, including a ban on the operation of restaurants and nightclubs from midnight until 7 a.m. the next morning, and a cap of 50 people at all public events and gatherings.<ul class="read-more-links"><li>Read more:</li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/santorini-greece-where-to-stay-to-avoid-touristy-spots-2020-3">I've visited the Greek island of Santorini twice — and if you think it's just a tourist trap, you're going to all the wrong places</a></li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/crete-greece-hotel-overwater-bungalows-like-maldives-much-cheaper-2020-8">A hotel in Greece has dreamy Maldives-style overwater bungalows for a fraction of the price</a></li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/greece-under-the-radar-places-where-you-can-avoid-tourists-2020-6">A Greek millennial shares the under-the-radar places you should visit if you're trying to avoid tourists</a></li><li><a href="https://www.insider.com/greece-travel-cheap-buy-one-flight-get-one-half-off-2020-7">You can now buy a plane ticket to anywhere in Greece and get another half off for travel through October</a></li></ul>

You Searched For "oia castle" and got 5 results

I watched the world's most watched sunset at Oia, Greece and loved every minute of it

Guest Author

Europe uncovered: the top 10 places every traveller should discover

BI India Bureau

I spend every summer in Santorini, Greece. Here are 10 things I like to do when I want a tourist-free, under-the-radar vacation.

Heidi Fuller-love

10 swoon-worthy hotels in Santorini with cliffside cave rooms and infinity pools that are also affordable, according to a professional hotel reviewer

Heidi Fuller-love

An influencer's video shows dozens of maskless tourists gathering to take a photo of Santorini's famous sunset

Anneta Konstantinides

Popular Keywords

Buying Guides