The choice of Santorini as the next destination was, in many ways, the result of a search for something that keeps eluding me. When someone sees you smiling, surrounded by beautiful landscapes, or with a camera in your hand as you explore unknown streets, it’s easy to assume you have everything you need in life. But sometimes, a smile can hide a feeling of emptiness, that silence that envelops you after every exciting moment, when the lights go out, and you're left alone with yourself.

Traveling has always attracted me because each new city, each new country, was like a new beginning, a new opportunity to find that something. Whatever it is, it always eludes me. I’ve never been satisfied staying in one place, maybe because I haven't found my true home, that security I need. Santorini was the choice because, in my mind, it represented an island of dreams, a place where the sea and sky are one, and white houses with blue domes look like something out of a fairy tale. I expected this journey to bring me answers or at least moments of peace that I so rarely find.

I knew that Santorini was not just a romantic destination but also a place where history, culture, and natural beauty meet in a way that is rare to experience elsewhere. I wanted to feel that energy, that combination of ancient myths and modern life that makes this island special. On the other hand, I felt an inexplicable connection with this place. Maybe it was the desire to escape everyday life, to find peace in simple moments like watching the sunset or walking through narrow streets filled with history.
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This journey was more than just a tourist trip. It was an exploration of myself, an attempt to understand why every new place fills me with excitement and why that excitement quickly fades. Was I really searching for a place that would fulfill me, or was it a search for something deeper, something within me? Santorini was the perfect place for such exploration because this island, with its dramatic landscapes and rich history, simultaneously provided a refuge for the soul and space for reflection.

The expectations were high, but deep down, I wasn't looking for perfection. I was looking for moments. Those small, precious moments when time seems to stop, and you can just exist, without the need to do something or be something more than what you are. And maybe, just maybe, in those moments, you'll find that something or at least come a step closer to understanding what you truly need.

Santorini, the island of dreams and sunsets, was my next destination, my attempt to capture that fleeting feeling of happiness and inner peace, which, like a sunset, seems to last only a moment but leaves a lasting memory.

Magical sunsets: Places where Santorini truly shines

Santorini is a place where every sunset leaves a mark on the heart as if we are witnessing something special each time, something that takes our breath away. As I stood on the edge of the caldera, the sun slowly descended toward the horizon, illuminating the entire island with golden and orange hues. It was a moment when nature and emotions merged into one, a moment that cannot be forgotten.

I have always loved sunsets, but nowhere were they as powerful and profound as here, in Santorini. This island seems to be made for romantic souls like me, who seek beauty in fleeting moments. I have always believed that a sunset symbolizes the end of something and the beginning of something new. Perhaps that’s why I’m so drawn to them – as if every sunset brings a new opportunity, a new beginning, new hope. In Santorini, that feeling is amplified by the beauty of the island itself, where it seems that even nature participates in this play of light and shadow.

Every evening, I chose a new spot to watch this wondrous scene. I first went to Oia, the most famous place to watch the sunset. Oia, with its narrow streets and white houses with blue roofs, was like something out of a fairy tale. Despite the crowd of tourists, I felt as if I were alone in the world as if the sun was setting just for me. The warmth on my face as the sun sank behind the horizon was incomparable. The light reflected on the blue Aegean Sea created the impression that the whole world was shimmering in the same rhythm.

But Oia was not the only place on the island where I experienced this spectacle. The next evening, I went to Firostefani, a small village perched on top of a cliff overlooking the caldera. Here, the atmosphere was quieter, more intimate. I sat on a small terrace and watched the sun slowly set behind the volcanic archipelago. In the silence, I heard only the sound of the sea and the occasional breeze that tousled my hair. I felt connected to nature, as if Santorini was holding my hand and guiding me through its secrets.

The biggest surprise came when I decided to visit Pyrgos, a small village located on a hill inland. Pyrgos is not as famous as Oia or Fira, but its position allows for a view of the entire island. As I sat on a stone wall and watched the sun sink into the sea, I felt as if I were on top of the world. The colors were even more intense, and the shadows longer. Pyrgos showed me a different side of Santorini, one that is not available to everyone. That sunset was one of those moments when I felt peace within myself, as if I had finally found something that I had been missing.

Every place on Santorini offers its unique view of the sunset, but what remains the same is the feeling it brings – a feeling of transience, beauty, and hope. Watching the sun disappear behind the horizon, I felt that each day brings a new opportunity for change, growth, and love. It was a moment when I reconnected with myself, with my dreams and hopes, no matter how distant they sometimes seemed.

Santorini is an island that constantly reminds you of the beauty of every moment, especially when the sun slowly disappears at the end of the day. Those evenings on the caldera are etched in my memory as the most intimate and special moments of my journey. As the sky changed from golden to red, and then to dark blue, I felt that I was part of something bigger, something that transcends time and space. Santorini taught me how to appreciate the transience and beauty of every moment, no matter how brief it may be.

This island, with its sunsets, gave me the chance to pause and enjoy the present moment, something I often forget in my constant search for something new and unknown. The sunset on Santorini is not just the end of a day; it is a reminder that every moment is precious and that, even when the sun sets, the beauty remains within us.

Santorini's hidden beaches: exploring the island's untouched gems

While the sunsets on Santorini are spectacular and attract tourists from all over the world, the true jewels of this island lie hidden off the usual tourist routes. These are small, hidden beaches that reveal Santorini at its most intimate. These beaches are far from the crowds and noise, a hidden paradise for those who, like me, seek peace and quiet, a place where the sea tells its stories, and the wind whispers the secrets of the past.

The first encounter with one such beach was almost accidental. Walking along narrow paths through vineyards and olive groves, I arrived at a beach that I could only describe as a small piece of paradise. It was White Beach, named for the white rocks that surround it. As I walked on the fine gravel, I felt every step connecting me more with nature. There were no modern amenities here, just untouched nature and the sound of waves gently lapping the shore. In that moment, time ceased to matter, and I could fully immerse myself in the present moment, far from all worries and problems.

As I sat on that beach, watching the sea change colors under different angles of the sun, I felt as if I had found a piece of my lost home. The feeling of freedom was immense. There was no one around, just me and the sea, and it was a moment I had long sought – peace in the heart and soul, far from the hustle and bustle of the world.
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But White Beach was not the only such beach on Santorini. The decision to explore other hidden beaches led me to Red Beach, which, unlike its predecessor, was surrounded by red volcanic rocks. The scene was almost surreal, as if I had stepped into another world. The red color of the rocks contrasted with the turquoise sea, creating a view that is hard to describe in words. As I walked along the shore, I felt like an explorer searching for something unknown, something that would reveal a new dimension of life on the island.

Each of these beaches had its story, its specific characteristics that made them special. On Black Beach, named for its volcanic sand, I spent the whole day watching the waves and listening to the sounds of nature. Here, in this secluded corner of the island, I felt as if I had found a place that belonged only to me, a place where I could be completely myself, without any limitations.

Santorini is much more than its famous attractions and picturesque streets; it is a place where nature still hides its jewels for those willing to explore and discover. As I explored these hidden beaches, I realized how important it is sometimes to step away from everything familiar and venture into the unknown. In those moments, when I find myself alone on some hidden beach, I feel like I am slowly returning to myself, finding parts of myself that were lost somewhere along the way.

Each of these beaches offered something special, whether it was a feeling of peace, freedom, or connection with nature. But what connected them all was the feeling of discovery, the feeling that I had found something that was hidden not only from others but also from myself. These hidden beaches became my sanctuary, a place where I could escape from everything and find the inner peace I had been searching for so long.

After spending several days exploring these hidden beaches, I realized that Santorini is not just an island for romantic getaways and spectacular sunsets. It is a place that hides its true face, its deepest secrets, for those who are willing to seek. As I walked along those sandy shores, I felt that each step brought something new, something that brought me closer to understanding myself and the world around me.

Each beach was like a small discovery, as if every time I stepped on them, I was opening a new page in the book of my life. Although these beaches were hidden from view, they were beacons that guided me through inner storms and led me to quiet harbors in my heart. Santorini became the place where I could find what I had long sought – peace, quiet, and a sense of belonging.

Authentic Santorinian cuisine: the tastes and aromas of the island

Photo by: Domagoj Skledar/ arhiva (vlastita)

When Santorini is mentioned, most people think of white houses with blue roofs, breathtaking sunsets, and the endless blue of the Aegean Sea. But this island hides another treasure that is not immediately visible – its authentic cuisine. Santorini is not just a visual treat but also a gastronomic one. Every bite reveals a part of the history, culture, and soul of this magical island.

My journey through the flavors of Santorini began by chance when, wandering the narrow streets of Fira, I smelled freshly baked bread and spices wafting from a small tavern hidden between stone walls. Guided by the scent, I went inside, not knowing what to expect, but I was ready to surrender to every flavor this island could offer me. The warmth and hospitality of the tavern’s owner immediately won me over. I sat at a small wooden table, and the waiter, with a smile on his face, recommended a dish that he said was specific to this area.

When they brought me the first plate, my heart beat faster with excitement. In front of me was fava – a puree of yellow split peas, drizzled with olive oil and sprinkled with capers. Every spoonful was like a return to the past, to a time when simple dishes were the main food of the island’s inhabitants. The fava was perfectly creamy, with a mild but rich flavor that melted on the tongue. The capers added that necessary dose of saltiness and freshness, perfectly complementing the olive oil, which was an indispensable part of every dish.

The next dish I tried was tomatokeftedes, tomato fritters. They were crispy on the outside and soft and juicy on the inside, with an explosion of flavors from ripe Santorini tomatoes, onions, parsley, and mint. It was a simple dish but so rich in flavor that it left an indelible mark on my memory. The taste of the tomatoes was incomparable to anything I had ever tasted, as if these fruits had absorbed all the sunlight and transferred it to my palate.

As the days went by, every meal on Santorini was a new adventure. I went through different taverns and restaurants, from those hidden in small villages to those overlooking the caldera. In one of them, the owner revealed to me the secret of preparing moussaka, a traditional dish found throughout Greece, but on Santorini, it has its unique taste. Moussaka here is not just an eggplant and minced meat casserole – it is a true masterpiece. Every layer, from the roasted vegetables to the velvety béchamel, was perfectly balanced, creating a harmony of flavors that is simply irresistible.

One of the most interesting moments of my culinary journey on Santorini was when I discovered the island’s wine culture. Due to its volcanic soil, the vineyards on Santorini produce unique wines, and the most famous among them is vinsanto – a sweet dessert wine made from dried grapes. I had the opportunity to visit one of the vineyards and participate in a wine tasting. Every sip was an explosion of flavors, with notes of dried apricots, figs, and honey. This wine was not just a drink but an experience that connects you with the island’s history, its volcanoes, sun, and wind.

Santorini is not just a visual treasure but also a paradise for gourmets. Every meal, every glass of wine, every drop of olive oil tells a story about the island, about the people who live here, about their struggles, love, and passion. This island taught me that food is not just a necessity but a way to connect with nature, with the past, and with others. When you sit at a table in Santorini, you are not just eating a dish – you are absorbing the history, culture, and love for the land that has nourished its inhabitants for centuries.

Through the tastes and aromas of Santorini, I felt a deeper connection with this place. It was not just a visit to a tourist destination but a journey through history, culture, and the soul of the island. And as I slowly say goodbye to this magical place, I carry with me memories not only of beautiful landscapes but also of the tastes and aromas that will forever remain etched in my heart.

A journey through history: the discovery of the ancient city of Akrotiri

Photo by: Domagoj Skledar/ arhiva (vlastita)

Walking through Santorini, it is impossible to ignore the feeling that I am in a place where the past and present are constantly intertwined. Every stone, every old house tells its story, and the most deeply rooted among them is that of the ancient city of Akrotiri. A visit to this archaeological site was like a journey through time, a step into a past that is still alive despite being buried under layers of ash for millennia.

When I first set foot on the soil of Akrotiri, I felt as if I were entering a parallel world, a world frozen in time. This ancient city, destroyed by a volcanic eruption around 1600 BC, remained preserved under layers of ash and volcanic rock, and its remains provide a fascinating insight into the civilization that once flourished on this island.

As I walked through the excavations, I felt a mixture of awe and sadness. Awe at the exceptional preservation of buildings, frescoes, and everyday objects that have survived for centuries, and sadness at the tragedy that befell this place and the people who lived here. Houses, squares, streets – everything was there, as if the inhabitants of Akrotiri had just left their homes for a moment, leaving behind testimonies of their culture, beliefs, and way of life.
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The frescoes left the greatest impression on me, revealing not only the artistic talent of the inhabitants of that time but also their daily lives, rituals, and the nature that surrounded them. Every fresco told a story, and I felt like a silent observer who, through these images, creates a connection with the past. Looking at scenes from nature, animals, ships, and people, I felt as if I were getting closer to understanding a world that existed more than three thousand years ago. 

Walking through what was once the center of life in Akrotiri, it was not difficult to imagine what this city looked like in its full glory. Merchants, sailors, artists, and ordinary citizens all lived their lives in the shadow of the volcano, unaware of the disaster that would befall them. I felt a deep connection with these people, even though I could never meet them. Their presence was palpable in every corner of this ancient city.

One of the most striking moments of my visit was when I stood in front of the building known as the "House of the Frescoes." This building was richly decorated with paintings depicting mythological scenes, religious rituals, and everyday activities. In the silence of that moment, I felt how the past becomes the present, how these people come to life again through these images, conveying their stories across millennia.

As I stood there in the heart of Akrotiri, I was overwhelmed by a deep respect for the people who lived here and for the archaeologists and scientists who have dedicated their lives to discovering and preserving this priceless treasure. Without their work, these precious remains would have remained forever buried, and the stories of ancient Akrotiri lost.

Santorini is not just an island for enjoying beautiful landscapes and gastronomy. It is a place where the past and present coexist in a way that is rarely felt elsewhere. A visit to Akrotiri was a reminder of how fragile history is, but also of how important it is to preserve it and learn from it. This ancient city has become a symbol of that eternal struggle between nature and man, but also a reminder of the strength of the human spirit, which is capable of creating beauty even in the harshest conditions.

Through this visit, I felt not only the past of Akrotiri but also a deeper understanding of my place in time. Walking through its ancient streets, I realized how intertwined human history is, how cycles of creation and destruction constantly repeat. Akrotiri gave me the opportunity to pause and reflect on the transience of time but also on the permanence of the human need to create and preserve beauty.

Santorini is much more than its famous landscapes; it is an island where the past is never forgotten, where every stone has its story, and Akrotiri is a story that will never fade.

White houses and blue domes: architecture that tells a story

Photo by: Domagoj Skledar/ arhiva (vlastita)

One of the most recognizable symbols of Santorini is the white houses with blue domes that seem to have sprung from the very heart of the island. This architecture is not only an aesthetic pleasure; it tells a story about the history, culture, and spirit of this magical place. Walking through the narrow streets of Fira, Oia, and other villages, I felt as if I had stepped into a fairy tale. Every house, every dome, every terrace had its story, which it whispered to the wind, the sea, and the sun.

Santorini is an island built on a volcano, and this is felt in every stone and every rock that forms the foundation of these beautiful buildings. The white color of the houses is not just decorative; it has a functional role – it reflects the sun's rays and keeps the interior of the houses cool, which is crucial in the hot summer months. The blue domes, which have become a symbol of this island, represent the sky and the sea, further connecting these buildings with the natural environment.

As I walked through the streets of Oia, the most famous village on Santorini, every step was filled with a sense of wonder. The narrow streets that climb and descend, with views of the caldera, created the impression that I was walking through a picturesque postcard. The white houses, stacked one on top of the other in terraces, each with its blue dome, form an impressive sight. In that moment, Santorini seemed to me like a place that defies time, a place where the past and present coexist in perfect harmony.

One of the most impressive things on Santorini is how every house seems like a natural part of the landscape. The stone extracted from the volcano is used for construction, and the white and blue colors make these buildings almost blend with the sky and sea. Architecture on Santorini is not just a matter of aesthetics but also practicality. The houses are built with thick walls to withstand earthquakes, which is necessary on an island with such a turbulent seismic history. The interiors of the houses are simple but functional, with arches and small windows that allow for optimal air circulation.

As I passed by small chapels with light blue domes, I felt a sense of peace and spiritual connection with this place. These churches, though small, play a significant role in the lives of the islanders. Their blue domes symbolize protection and spirituality, and their simplicity exudes calm and faith. Every church has its history, its story of faith and hope passed down through generations.

When I climbed one of the viewpoints in Oia, I was treated to a view of the entire island. The white houses, blue domes, and the endless blue of the sea created a breathtaking scene. It was one of those places where time stands still, where the world becomes silent, and all you feel is peace and connection with something greater than yourself. In those moments, Santorini revealed itself to me as a place where dreams and reality merge into one.

As I sat on the terrace of one of those white houses, watching the sunset, I felt a wave of gratitude wash over me. This architecture is not only proof of the human ability to create beauty but also a reminder of the importance of harmony between man and nature. Every line, every corner of these houses was perfectly aligned with the surroundings, creating a harmonious whole that exudes tranquility and beauty.

The architecture of Santorini is not only visually appealing; it is a symbol of resilience, strength, and perseverance. This island, which has endured numerous earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, has built its architectural heritage on the foundations of strength and community. The white houses and blue domes tell the story of people who, despite all challenges, have managed to create a paradise on earth, a place that inspires and leaves everyone who visits it breathless.

Walking through these picturesque villages, I felt a deep connection with the past but also with the future. Santorini is a place where you feel like part of something bigger, as if every house, every dome, every terrace has its role in the great story of life. This architecture taught me that true beauty lies in simplicity and harmony, in the ability to adapt to nature and create something that will last for generations.

Santorini, with its white houses and blue domes, left an indelible mark on my heart. This island is not just a destination but a lesson in beauty, perseverance, and the importance of preserving tradition. Its architecture tells a story of love, strength, and connection with nature, a story I will carry with me forever.

Life on the island: encounters with local residents and their stories

Santorini is not just an island of spectacular landscapes and enchanting architecture but also a place where life stories intertwine with nature in a special way. Walking through small villages, far from the tourist crowds, I had the opportunity to meet local residents who opened the doors of their homes but also their hearts to me. Their stories, deeply rooted in tradition, love for the land, and the sea, revealed to me another side of Santorini, one that is hidden behind the bright facades and tourist attractions.

One of the most special experiences on Santorini was meeting Mr. Yannis, an old fisherman from a small village on the southeastern coast of the island. With a face tanned by the sun and hands rough from work, Yannis told me the story of his life, of the sea that gave him everything and took everything away. As we sat on the shore, watching the waves caress the sand, he told me about the days when fishermen were the soul of the island, when every trip to the sea was a struggle for survival but also a moment of freedom.

Yannis' story was not just about fish and the sea but also about the changes that time has brought. As he spoke of his youth when the village streets were filled with children's laughter, and fishing boats lined the shore, I sensed nostalgia in his voice. Today, Santorini is different – tourism has become the main source of income, and old crafts are slowly disappearing. Yet, Yannis did not lose hope. "The sea always returns to those who love it," he said with a smile as he watched his small boat sway on the waves.

I also met Mrs. Eleni, an elderly woman who spent her entire life on Santorini. In her small house, built in the style of traditional white houses with blue windows, Eleni told me the story of her family, of the generations that lived on this island, of the joys and sorrows that accompanied them. I remember how she proudly showed me old photographs that testified to a time when life was simpler but filled with love and community.

As we sat on her terrace, surrounded by flowers and the scent of lavender, Eleni told me how Santorini has changed. Every family used to have its vineyard and olive grove, but today, many of those fields are abandoned. Yet, Eleni has not forgotten the joy of life on the island. "Santorini teaches you to appreciate the little things," she said as she offered me homemade honey and fresh figs. "Here, the sun, the sea, and the wind shape people, making us stronger but also more humble."

During my stay on Santorini, I often found myself in small taverns where locals gathered for dinner. There, over a glass of wine and simple dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients, I listened to stories of times gone by, of the volcanic eruption that changed the island forever, but also of hopes for the future. One of those conversations particularly stuck in my memory – it was a conversation with a young couple who decided to stay on Santorini and run a family vineyard despite all the challenges of modern life. Their determination and love for the land were contagious, and as they spoke of their plans, I felt a deep respect for their choice.

Life on Santorini is not easy, but it is fulfilling. The local residents, despite all the changes that tourism brings, remain connected to their roots, their ancestors, and their tradition. Their stories are stories of love for the island, of the struggle for survival, but also of the joy that comes from living in harmony with nature.

Santorini is much more than its beautiful landscapes and luxury hotels. It is a place where people live simply but fully, where the past and present are intertwined in everyday rituals and stories passed down from generation to generation. As I listened to these stories, I felt like part of something bigger, as if I were connected to the soul of this island in a way that is hard to describe in words.

Leaving Santorini, I carried with me not only memories of breathtaking sunsets and white houses with blue domes but also of the people who opened their hearts and homes to me. Their stories will remain forever etched in my memory as a reminder of the strength, love, and resilience of the human spirit.

Reflections and inner peace: how Santorini inspired me

Photo by: Domagoj Skledar/ arhiva (vlastita)

Santorini attracted me from the very beginning with its beauty, but what I did not expect was how much this journey would inspire me to inner reflections and discovering a deep sense of peace. This island, with its dramatic landscapes, blue domes, and endless horizon, was not just a visual experience but also a spiritual one. Every moment spent on this island was an opportunity for introspection, for thinking about my life, desires, and fears.

As I walked the narrow streets of Oia, I felt the world around me slowing down. The white houses, blue windows, and view of the sea seemed like the perfect frame for the quiet thoughts swirling in my head. In Santorini, everyday life takes on a different rhythm, and that peace allows you to dedicate yourself to what you truly feel. In moments when I was alone, far from tourists and crowds, I felt the island opening up to me in a way I could not predict.

One of the places that particularly affected me was the terrace of a small church located on top of a hill in Pyrgos. Looking towards the sunset, I felt all the noise of the world retreating into the background, leaving me alone with thoughts that had long sought their way. The sunset on Santorini is not just a sight – it is a moment when you feel connected to something greater than yourself, to infinity, to nature, to the entire universe.

In those moments of silence, the island became a huge mirror for me, reflecting all those aspects of my life that I often neglect. I realized how often I rush through life without staying long enough to truly feel the moment. Santorini taught me how to stop, how to breathe, how to be present. As I sat on that terrace, I felt a peace in my heart that I had not experienced in a long time. It was as if everything in my life had finally settled into place.

The feeling of inner peace that I found on Santorini was not fleeting. Every day, as I walked along the coast or watched the waves crash against the rocks, I felt that peace solidifying within me. I began to recognize how important it is to take time for yourself, for your thoughts, for reflection. Santorini showed me that it is okay to stop, that it is okay to be alone with yourself and think about life. This is not a sign of weakness but of strength.

The island also awakened in me a sense of gratitude for everything I have in life. As I observed the simplicity of life of the local residents, I realized how often we are trapped in material things, in the pursuit of something we think we need to be happy. But true happiness comes from within, from the ability to appreciate the little things, to find beauty in simplicity. Santorini taught me how to look at the world with different eyes, how to recognize the value of moments that we often take for granted.

Through all these reflections, Santorini became the place where I reconnected with myself, with my inner world. Every corner of this island, from hidden beaches to picturesque villages, carried with it a sense of peace and spiritual clarity. In moments when I watched the sun disappear behind the horizon, I felt that every step I took on this island was guided by some higher force that brought me here to find what I had long been searching for – inner peace and a deeper understanding of myself.

Santorini was not just another journey; it was a return home, but not to a physical home, rather to the home within myself. As I prepared to leave this island, I carried with me not only memories of beautiful landscapes but also a newly acquired sense of peace and contentment. Santorini taught me how to be present, how to enjoy every moment, and how to find beauty in everything around me.

This island, with its silences, colors, and endless horizons, became the place of my personal rebirth. Every street, every beach, every rock was part of a puzzle that ultimately revealed the picture of my inner world. Santorini showed me that sometimes it is necessary to go far to find what has been in front of us all along – peace, happiness, and love for life.

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