Family Fun in Greece 3: Paros

Thursday

We were sorry to leave beautiful Santorini, but it was time to explore a different Greek island. George, our friendly driver, drove us to the ferry port below Thira, pausing en route to take a quick family photo. It was interesting talking to George about Greece’s economic troubles and dependence on foreign investors. I hope he is able to fulfill his dream of running his own taxi company.

At the port, we relaxed and had a snack at one of the cafes before boarding our huge ferry. We brought our luggage with us and got comfortable in the business class lounge at the bow. I walked around on the decks and took photos as we left Santorini. The trip was three hours - plenty of time for a nap for Mei and a few more rounds of Crew (the cooperative strategy game) for the rest of us. After a brief stop in Naxos, we watched the sunset from the lounge and arrived in Paros at dusk.

Friday

We were staying at Villa Sol, an Airbnb property in the town of Naousa. Our villa had three en suite bedrooms, a terrace with a plunge pool, and a large kitchen and living area. It also had a washing machine and an extra bathroom. What more could we need? Our friendly host Cici was responsive and helpful, and Denise came to clean the villa every day. It was great having that luxurious place all to ourselves. It was a short walk to the village and harbor, so we didn't need a car.

Steve and Amy found a wonderful coffee shop nearby and brought back coffees and an assortment of delicious pastries. Then the three of us went for a walk, to explore Naousa. It was lovely! A 13th century Venetian castle stood at then trance to the harbor. Small boats offered rides to nearby beaches.

We wandered through a maze of charming pedestrian streets with interesting shops. My favorite street was wider, shaded by towering eucalyptus trees. There were many bougainvillea trees in bloom, and one restaurant had an impressive hibiscus tree with fat, white blossoms. It was hard to believe it was already October!

Amy stayed in the village with Danny and Mei for more shopping. They found a waterside restaurant with a very friendly cat. Back at the villa, I relaxed on the terrace with my audiobook, enjoying the view. That evening, we had dinner in the villa and watched more episodes of Kaos. For me, this was the perfect way to vacation.

Saturday

We decided to return to that waterside restaurant for brunch. It was windy and chilly on the beach, but they gave us blankets, and the food was delicious. After brunch, we did a little more shopping. I took advantage of the end-of-season sales and bought a couple of Greek cotton sweaters to refresh my minimal wardrobe.

Back at the villa, Mei created a bespoke wine tasting for us. She had picked up a few bottles in the village, and used ChatGPT to write an engaging narrative. We tasted one wine from Santorini, two wines from Paros, and two local beers. We happened to have two Greek olive oils on hand, so we tasted those, too. I think a local tasting should become a new family tradition. Thanks, Mei. Yamas! (Cheers!)

Danny had brought another game, an escape room with a Settlers of Catan theme. The puzzles were tricky and clever, and the solutions were satisfying. We managed to “escape” just as we were growing tired. Group victories are so sweet.

We had dinner at a restaurant in the village called Daverona, an elegant-yet-casual spot with creative Greek dishes. The food was both beautiful and tasty. The standout dish was the sea bass ceviche - delicious!

Sunday

We had brunch at Cannelait, the place near the villa with great coffee and wonderful pastries. I gorged on a blueberry almond and chocolate croissant and one of the best omelets I have ever tasted!

Alas, it was time for Danny and Mei to leave Greece. Amy, Steve and I spent the rest of the day relaxing at the villa. Our last evening in Paros included a lovely sunset, dinner and a movie, and a little chocolate tasting.

Monday

We had breakfast at Cannelait one last time before flying back to Athens. Amy would fly home to New York City, and Steve and I would continue on to Crete. Our family adventure in Greece had been memorable and a lot of fun. Yamas!