Latest news with #Santorini
TTG
3 days ago
- Business
- TTG
Domes Resorts unveils new sub-brand The Finds
Domes, Greece's prestigious luxury lifestyle hospitality brand, is set to introduce a fifth brand to its portfolio, The Finds, with the launch of its first property Neema Maison Finikia Santorini in July 2025, alongside Agali Hotel in Paxos, which has been operated by Domes for the past two years. It follows a successful past 12 months with new hotels including 91 Athens Riviera, and Domes Novos Santorini. Domes Finds resorts has been created for curious world travellers and offers authentic, curated experiences and beautifully designed spaces to encourage guests to slow down, explore and reconnect. The Finds hotels are community-driven, shaped by the people, pace, and place around them. Each property has a unique creative concept informing all aspects of the hotel, and reflects the group's evolution toward meaningful, experience-driven hospitality. Domes Finds seeks to inspire guests to live a better life, travel with intention, and experience the world with fresh eyes. Neema Maison Finikia Santorini is situated in the village of Finikia on the northern, more tranquil side of Santorini, renowned for natural beauty, incredible views and local charm with family run cafes, wine cellars and olive presses. The boutique property will feature 16 suites, with some rooms featuring jacuzzis or beautiful loft style spaces, and contemporary interiors with whitewashed walls and soft red pops of colour. 'Neema' is inspired by the ancient Greek word for 'thread,' a symbol of elegance, craftsmanship, and destiny. Located above the secluded bay of Plakes Beach on the island on Paxos, beachfront resort Agali Hotel Paxos features 33 traditional bungalows, crafted from native Paxos stone, offering a serene escape for guests with views of the Ionian Sea. The adults and teens-only resort embodies the principles of slow living, farm-to-table dining and holistic wellness. 'Agali' means 'without rush' and embodies the soulful, quintessential philosophy of Paxos Islanders, where slow living is a way of life. Domes currently offers four unique hotel categories: Domes Noruz offering vibrant, adults-only lifestyle retreats; Domes Aulūs providing a sophisticated take on five-star all inclusive resorts, Domes Originals featuring iconic award-winning resorts; and Domes Reserves with its unique, design-led spaces.
The Independent
6 days ago
- The Independent
Fewer crowds and quiet hotels – what it's like visiting Santorini following the earthquakes
Santorini's signature view is as marvellous as ever. From my vantage point at Adami restaurant in the picture-perfect village of Oia, I can see the semicircular sweep of the volcanic crater's cliffs plunging deeply into a midnight-blue sea, with Thirassia islet completing its outline on the other side. Ferries are buzzing in and out of the port beneath Fira, the island's capital, while the massive cruise ships anchored nearby are so far below that they look like bath toys. It's an everyday Santorini scene, but this year's tourist season is anything but average. Oia, though still bustling, is considerably quieter than usual: a situation that's partly attributed to the earthquakes that shook the island back in February, right in the middle of the peak booking period for sunshine holidays. 'It definitely had an impact,' confides John Bubaris, the general manager of Canaves Ena, the luxurious hotel within which Adami sits. 'The island as a whole has had a very slow start to the season, but now that things have calmed down and bookings are returning.' Had the earthquakes hit any other Greek island than the one with a world-famous profile, it's unlikely that they would have made headline news. Tremors, after all, are commonplace in Greece thanks to the nation's position near a subduction zone where two tectonic plates collide. Nevertheless, February's period of seismic activity was unusual. 'It wasn't so much the intensity as the frequency that was surprising,' says John, 'with literally hundreds of tremors every day.' And although there were viral videos online of rocks tumbling down the caldera's cliffs, there was barely any damage to the island's infrastructure or architecture. 'The schools were closed and many locals temporarily left, but the situation was never out of control,' continues John. 'Admittedly, it was sometimes scary, but I honestly found it exciting!' Canaves isn't the only Santorini hotel that's shrugging off the earthquakes' hangover. Daniel Kerzner, who owns Santorini Sky: an all-villa retreat at the centre of the island, close to the hilltop village of Pyrgos, told me: 'The island is fully open again, with zero limitations. Even with the disruption, we've already welcomed guests from nearly 20 countries since January, and we're forecasting 90 per cent occupancy for the year overall.' Despite this positive outlook, even a casual observer can see that Santorini's tourism has taken a hit. I was there in late May, well before the peak-season rush, and in places Santorini felt eerily quiet. Yes, the port had been hectic when I arrived by ferry, but in Oia there were hardly any people at the spots where queues normally form to take selfies beside the village's famous blue-domed churches. I walked to Oia one morning along the rugged clifftop footpath from Fira and only encountered a trickle of hikers where usually there'd be a flood. And when I passed through Imerovigli, the highest village on the cliffs, the plunge pools at the many sunset-facing hotels and suites were almost all unoccupied. Even Imerovigli's ubiquitous 'floaty dress' and 'bride-and-groom' photoshoots were in short supply. If you ever wanted to see Santorini without the crowds, this could be the year to do it. You might want to think about booking soon, though, as the calm won't last for long. Mercury Holidays is one operator for whom Greece bookings are resurging. 'We haven't seen any longer-term negative impact on customer demand for Santorini and other Greek islands after the earthquakes,' says the company's marketing manager, Charlie Wakeham. 'Enquiries for Greece are actually higher than last year; and bookings are up, especially for last-minute and summer holidays.' Even though it sounds like the island is set for a business-as-usual summer, visitors this year can expect a few positive changes. A particular battle is against the reported overtourism that's tarnished Santorini's reputation in recent years. Much of this overcrowding has been attributed to visiting cruise ships, though a €20 (£16.80) per person tax on passengers coming ashore is one of a raft of measures introduced this year to begin resetting the balance. Elsewhere, there are moves to tackle the perception that Santorini is exclusive and expensive, especially in Oia, where the romance of cave-suite hotels means that some of them can get away with charging the highest rates in all of Greece. 'Several of Oia's fine-dining restaurants have recently switched to offering more traditional Greek cuisine,' says John Bubaris. 'It's in response to consumer behaviour shifts towards simpler, more authentic experiences, but it's also helping to counter the image of Santorini being too pricey.' It all sounds rather promising for Santorni-bound holidaymakers this summer, I told him. 'Definitely,' John agrees. 'It's great that hoteliers, cruise lines and other stakeholders are coming together collectively to improve the overall guest experience, especially in Oia. That can only be a good thing.' How to save on your Santorini holiday As one of Europe's most sought-after holiday destinations, Santorini getaways don't always come cheap. While you can often find a great deal by booking directly with the hotel, or via booking platforms like Expedia and it's also worth considering a package deal where your flights and transfers are included, too. Jet2holidays is offering one of the best deals right now, saving you £100 per person on all Santorini holidays departing before 15 November 2026. To be eligible, for the full savings you will need to register as a free myJet2 member, however, non-members can still save £90. See more travel deals on our dedicated Jet2holidays discount codes page.
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Travel + Leisure
21-06-2025
- Travel + Leisure
I Island Hopped in Greece for 2 Weeks—and I Didn't Check a Bag Thanks to These 15 Packable Fashion Pieces
Greece will always hold a special place in my heart. It was the very first international destination my (now) husband and I visited, nearly a decade ago—and, just last year, it's where we went on our honeymoon. On the former trip, we visited Athens, Santorini, and Crete; on the latter, we spent two gorgeous weeks island hopping from Paros to Milos and then on to Sifnos. Visiting three Greek locales requires a foolproof packing list to ensure that every activity, terrain, and climate is accounted for. I also highly recommend sticking to a carry-on bag if you can (at least, that's my preference, especially when navigating the narrow streets of Greece). Below, explore the 15 non-negotiable travel clothing and accessory essentials I relied on that deserve a spot in your suitcase when visiting the Greek Isles this summer. A solid button-up blouse — ideally in linen, cotton, or silk — is at the top of my summer vacay list. I personally packed this Quince Washable Stretch Silk Blouse on my trip, and it's one I often take on any vacation because it's so versatile and easy to wear. Not only is it super lightweight and breathable (a must in a warm climate like Greece), but it also takes up virtually no space in your suitcase. Plus, this top is the ultimate clothing chameleon: Pair it with casual shorts and sneakers, wear it with a skirt and heeled sandals, or toss it over your swimsuit as a classy cover-up. I personally own it in white (and find that's the most versatile), but it also comes in a number of other lovely colors. For days of visiting beaches or exploring Cycladic towns, I always reach for an easy-to-wear pair of shorts. On extra warm days, I'm a fan of wearing a loose-fitting linen option like these Quince European Linen Shorts, which I packed for my last trip to Greece. I own them in black, but they're also available in a number of pretty colors and patterns to suit any preference. For something a bit more structured, you could opt for these classic Madewell Bermuda Shorts. Either of these neutral options could easily mix and match with any of the tops in your luggage, so there's no need to pack more than one pair in your carry-on. A gorgeous pair of linen pants is a must for any Greek vacation. I've been obsessed with the Australian fashion brand Dissh's elastic linen trousers for travel, but if you're looking for something at a lower price point, you can't go wrong with this $40 wide-leg pair from Halara. Whichever route you choose, you'll have a wrinkle-free, space-saving option that goes with everything, whether you're exploring the city or hanging by the beach. Let's be real, when we're packing for vacation—especially somewhere as scenic as Greece—you're going to want to bring at least one standout, picture-worthy outfit. My personal favorite: a statement dress, like this stunning floral one from ASTR the Label. It's worth noting that while a maxi dress may take up a bit more space than its shorter counterpart, it's a one-garment outfit, which is ultimately a space-saver. Any dress with a vibrant pattern or unique design will make you feel like an ethereal Greek goddess, in my opinion. However, you can still go bold with something understated like this smocked maxi dress from Amazon-loved brand PrettyGarden. Personally, I packed this Favorite Daughter linen dress on my last trip to Greece, and it was a chic hero piece for my vacation wardrobe. On a trip to Greece, you're going to need sandals that are well-suited for wearing to the beach, walking along cobblestone paths, and maybe even hiking down into secluded coves (yes, this came up while I was in Milos). For that reason, I'd recommend packing a pair of sandals that are well-suited for any active adventure, like the Teva Hurricanes or Merrell Speedfusions. When I'm headed to a coastal destination like Greece, I love packing a simple dress like Dissh's Lotus Linen Dress that I can toss on with a pair of sneakers and head out for a day exploring, or slip over my swimsuit before heading to the sea. It embodies that effortless Greek style, hardly takes up any packing space, and creates a complete outfit with just one easy-to-wear piece. For something a bit more budget-friendly, I found this linen dress at Amazon that achieves the same vibe at a fraction of the price. $90 at Amazon $90 at Nordstrom While you'll most likely spend your days ambling around Greece in a pair of sandals, it's always a good idea to bring at least one pair of closed-toed shoes on any trip (especially for when the temps drop at night). For the purposes of a Greek vacation, I'd keep it simple with a pair of white sneakers. On our trip, I opted for classic Reebok Club Cs, whereas my husband packed a pair of white and navy Nike Killshot leather shoes. Pro tip: I'd wear these on the plane to save space in your bag. A trip to the Greek Isles means plenty of time swimming in pools and the sea; therefore, a chic swimsuit is a must. For lounging by the pool at Andronis Minois Paros, I packed the LSpace Hazel Ribbed Bikini Top and matching bottoms, which I adored because both are super comfortable, offer a decent amount of coverage for a two-piece, and also the white piping gives the classic black bikini a more unique design. However, if you're not a fan of bikinis, then check out the Baewatch Colorblock Trim Ribbed One-piece Swimsuit, which has a similar style, or Cupshe's ultra-flattering one-piece that's only $40 at Amazon. Hopefully, your Greek isle itinerary includes plenty of time at the beach and on the water, which means your valuables might be in danger of getting wet or sandy. That's where a waterproof bag like this one from Amazon (which has thousands of five-star reviews) can come in handy. Simply slip in your phone and then enjoy the Aegean Sea stress-free. While you can get away with dressing pretty casual in Greece, I like to have at least one pair of sandals that feel elevated enough to wear to a nicer dinner, which is why I packed the Nisolo Platform Sandals for my trip and absolutely loved wearing them. Not only do they have incredible support for long days on your feet, but they also work just as well with a pair of shorts as they do with a more elegant dress. $198 $158 at Even though Greece gets quite warm in the summer, temperatures can drop at night, especially if you're visiting one of the windier islands like Milos. I recommend packing at least one jacket, like this insulated option from Vuori, which is one of my go-tos for just about any trip—it features a lightweight yet warm construction and neutral colorway that goes with everything. Speaking of layers, a cardigan is another great option for when the temperatures dip come nightfall. A few of my favorites include the Jenni Kayne Murphy Cardigan, which you can wear on its own as a sweater or draped over a dress (it came in handy when we ferried over to Sifnos, where we experienced the incredible cuisine and meandered about the breezy cliffside towns). Over at Amazon, you can achieve the same look with the Verdusa cropped cardigan ($30) or the Amazon Essentials V-neck Cardigan Sweater that's on sale for $17. One of my favorite accessories to pack is a silk scarf. It takes up virtually no room in your luggage, but can completely transform an outfit by adding a splash of color to an otherwise simple ensemble. Most of the scarves in my collection are either passed down from my mom or sourced vintage, but I spotted a couple that would be a great addition to anyone's collection, like this pretty blue and white option from Kurt Geiger, bold printed Nordstrom one, or even this silky floral-adorned option from Amazon that's on sale for $13. An iconically shaped pair of sunglasses is a great space-saving accessory that can elevate your entire outfit while also protecting your eyes. I packed these fun cat-eye sunglasses from Maui Jim for my last trip to Greece, and I love these sunnies for their vintage style, along with the fact that they feature polarized lenses, a must when walking around Greece or relaxing by the pool at our sophisticated yet understated hotel, Verina Astra. For a lower price point option, I'd recommend Goodr's no-slip, no-bounce Circle G shades for $25. When I'm enjoying a dreamy adventure abroad, I want my sleepwear to rise to the occasion. I am currently obsessed with the silky-smooth pajama sets from Eberjey, which feel truly luxurious on my skin. The breathable fabric also stays fresh and clean after multiple wears, reducing the need to pack excessive sleepwear. My other favorite summery shorts sets (both on vacation and at home): Cozy Earth's bamboo PJs, Quince's 100% European Linen PJ set, and Old Navy's $40 Poplin Pajama Short Set. Another small accessory that can make a big impact: jewelry, of course. For a Grecian vacation, I love this Pavoi coin necklace at Amazon, which only costs $17, or this layered set from Aritzan Joyeria, both of which help upgrade even a simple outfit. I'm also a fan of these lovely Gorjana braided earrings for the same reason. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
The Sun
20-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- The Sun
Garden owners can snap up Dunelm's ‘fabulous' sell-out egg chair for HALF PRICE as stock finally returns
A best-selling egg chair that keeps selling out has been restocked at Dunelm. The unique Santorini egg chair has had a huge 50% discount, which has seen the price cut from £249 to £124.50 in the sale. 1 Santorini Egg Chair £124.50 (was £249) The garden is the perfect place to relax, unwind and soak up the sun - if you've got the right set-up. Amidst the current hot weather, there's even more of a reason to invest in your garden, and egg chairs have become increasingly popular. Earlier this month our money team spotted a similar deal on a Homebase egg chair that's been reduced from £199.99 to £99.99. Dunelm has put a twist on the look that you usually get with this style of chair, replacing plain wood or rattan with a choice of vibrant colours. Two out of four of the colours were discounted, but it's the jade mist shade - a stylish turquoise and white design - that's back in stock. Egg chairs are often costly, so if you were hesitant to buy one full price, the £124.50 discount may tempt you for the sunny months ahead. The Santorini Egg Chair has a spacious-looking seat, with a thick, padded cushion to sink into when you're enjoying a drink or curling up with a book. Not all egg chairs are hanging, but with this one you can gently swing as you kick back and relax in the garden. It's not a new addition to Dunelm, but it's remained a bestseller, and has sold out several times. With the UK experiencing a period of hot weather at the moment, the stock has been replenished just in time for the heatwave. As we all know however, it's always essential to be prepared for less favourable conditions. Thankfully the egg chair is weather-resistant thanks to its powder-coated steel frame, which is known to be durable. The egg chairs aren't the only garden furniture deals in the Dunelm sale, as there are hundreds to choose from before the sale ends at midnight on Sunday (June 22). best solar lights for the garden to add to the cosy atmosphere in the evenings. To create a tropical vibe on a budget, a pair of patio palm trees now costs £20 down from £39.99 at Gardening Express. Flymo lawn mower now has 20% off at Amazon.
Daily Mirror
18-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- Daily Mirror
Argos knocks 50% off four-seater garden patio set with parasol
The rattan-effect set includes a glass table, four rope-effect armchairs and a parasol to shield shoppers from the sun The UK is set for a heatwave this week, with some parts of the country potentially sizzling in temperatures of up to 33C by the weekend. Ahead of summer's anticipated return, Argos has slashed 50% off a four-seater garden set. The Habitat Pesaro 4-seater Patio Set has been marked down to £250, from its original price of £500. The patio set comprises four chairs, a small table and a parasol. The four chairs are woven, have a rattan-effect design, and are also cushioned. The stylish set is perfect for shoppers revamping their outdoor spaces. It isn't too large, so it will be ideal for small or medium-sized gardens. The set has an overall customer satisfaction rating of 4.5 out of 5 on the Argos website. A shopper said: "I have had this set for two weeks and it has not disappointed me. Lovely comfortable chairs. Looks smart. I have given it four stars as the parasol is slightly small, but will be ok for us." Another picked it up on sale, adding: "Bought this a couple of weeks ago, after watching it for a year, finally caught in a sale. Love it." Argos knock 50% off garden patio set £500 £250 Argos Buy Now on Argos Product Description An additional customer had issues assembling it and also had a gripe with the parasol, writing: "Set is very nice, packaged very well, quite time-consuming to put together, including unwrapping. No issues with holes or fixings. Umbrella is pointless and looks comically small. Delivery team lovely." Alternatively, for homeowners conscious of limited space, this rattan 2-in-1 piece can be used as a daybed for snoozing and as a lounger for sunbathing. The cream two-seater is priced at £118 at Yimbly, an online marketplace owned by The Mirror's parent company, Reach Plc. What's more, shipping on a customer's first order is free. Elsewhere, Dunelm is selling a Santorini four-seater Conversation Set for £153.30, down from £219. The metal dining set doesn't require assembly and is offered in beige or green colours. Back to the Argos Habitat Pesaro 4-seater Patio Set, another buyer offered assembly tips: "I have enjoyed sitting out in the lovely weather and using the table and chair set. Very stylish and comfy. Would recommend. Tip for assembly - locate and fasten the nuts and bolts, but only loosely- this will make them easier to locate, then go back once this has been done and fully tighten them. "Glad I got this set half price in the sale, as I wouldn't have been able to afford it full price."
