Description

Mykonos is one of the largest of the Greek islands and has an area of 86 square kilometers. It has very little vegetation as most of the island is covered with granite. The island has little natural water and depends on desalination plants to meet its needs. Tourism started after the world wars to Mykonos soon transforming it into a significant clubbing destination in the Mediterranean. The glorious beaches, the clear water, and the glamorous beach bars with renowned DJs and the charming white washed houses, all attract ardent party makers. The 6000 plus inhabitants of the island tolerate gays and nudity as well, attracting celebrities and socialites to invest in real estate. The picturesque windmills with their white sails and the nightlife however are the two symbols that can represent Mykonos. There are more than 350 churches on this small island, most of them built to honor the dead.

Shopping

There are two-storied, whitewashed shops in Mykonos where tourists can shop. However there are a few items which can be taken back home like the best of honey, olives, olive oil, pistachios and cheeses, such as salty feta and white linen and clothes.

Restaurants

The Greek cuisine is very flavorful because of the use of the best quality of the ingredients which go into it. There are eateries serving gyros which are meats roasted on vertical spits. There are many beach side bars serving Greek food.

Night Life

Mykonos has a vibrant nightlife with many bars and clubs. It is the favorite haunt for many Greek and international celebrities and many have their own summer homes. Some of the famous beach bars are Paradise, Super Paradise and Paranga where DJs with international acclaim perform. It also has a lot of gay friendly clubs.

Activities

A visit the birthplace of Apollo on the historic island of Delos to see the important archaeological site is a must. Tourists can also take a trip to the Archaeological Museum on Mykonos which has many important finds from the ruins on neighboring Delos.

Communications

The international access code for Greece is +30. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). The city code for Athens is 21. Surcharges are applicable on calls made from hotels and it is generally cheaper to use OTE offices for local and international calls. The local mobile phone operators use GSM networks and have roaming agreements with most international operators. Internet cafes are available in the main towns and resorts and are cheaper.

Contacts

Greek Tourist Office: +30 210 3310392 or www.gnto.gr
Greek Embassy, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 939 1300
Greek Embassy, London, United Kingdom: +44 (0)20 7229 3850
Greek Embassy, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 238 6271
Greek Embassy, Canberra, Australia: +61 (0)2 6273 3011
Greek Embassy, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 (0)12 430 7351/2/3
Greek Embassy, Dublin, Ireland: +353 (0)1 676 7254
Greek Embassy, Wellington, New Zealand: +64 (0)4 473 7775/6
United States Embassy, Athens: +30 210 721 2951
British Embassy, Athens: +30 210 727 2600
Canadian Embassy, Athens: +30 210 727 3400
Australian Embassy, Athens: +30 210 870 4000
South African Embassy, Athens: +30 210 610 6645
Irish Embassy, Athens: +30 210 723 2771
New Zealand Consulate-General, Athens: +30 210 692 4136
Emergencies: 112/100 (Police); 112/166 (Ambulance)

Currency

EUR

Attractions

The most prominent of the hundreds of churches in Mykonos is the architectural complex of five churches called Paraportiani. The white, circular, conical wooden roof, windmills constitute one of the symbols of the island. They have been renovated and are preserved as important museums. The Bonis mill is one such example, while others have been renovated and are used as dwellings. Alevkantra is another place which should not be missed. It is popularly called the Venice of Mykonos as houses are built over the sea with polychrome porches and wooden terraces under which the waves break, giving a special feel to this part of Mykonos. It is a favorite with artists, many of whom have immortalized it in beautiful paintings.

Language

Greek

Language Description

The national language is Greek, but English is spoken and understood all along the country.

Tipping

Restaurants generally include the tip in the bill itself; if not, 10 to 15 % of the bill amount is considered a normal tip. Taxi drivers and porters expect loose change.