Mykonos: The Jewel of the Aegean Sea

• HelloΓεια σας
  [Ya sas]
• GoodbyeΑντίο
  [Adio]
• YesΝαι
  [Ne]
• NoΌχι
  [Ohi]
• Please/You're welcomeΠαρακαλώ
  [Parakalo]
• Thank youΕυχαριστώ
  [Efharisto]
• Excuse me/SorryΣυγνώμη
  [Signomi]
• How are you?Πώς είστε;
  [Pos iste?]
• Fine. And you?Καλά. Εσείς;
  [Kala. Esis?]
• Do you speak English?Μιλάτε αγγλικά;
  [Milate anglika?]
• I don't understandΔεν καταλαβαίνω
  [Den katalaveno]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseΘα ήθελα να δω το μενού, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na do to menu, parakalo]
• I don't eat meatΔεν τρώω κρέας
  [Den troo kreas]
• Cheers!ΥΓΕΙΑ!
  [Yia]
• I would like to pay, pleaseΘα ήθελα να πληρώσω, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na plirosso, parakalo]

• Help!Βοήθεια!
  [Voithia!]
• Go away!Φύγε!
  [Fiye!]
• Call the Police!Καλέστε την Αστυνομία!
  [Kaleste tin Astinomia!]
• Call a doctor!Καλέστε έναν γιατρό!
  [Kaleste enan giatro!]
• I'm lostΈχω χαθεί
  [Eho hathi]
• I'm illΕίμαι άρρωστος
  [Ime arrostos]

• I'd like to buy...Θα ήθελα να αγοράσω...
  [Tha ithela na agoraso...]
• I'm just lookingΑπλά κοιτάω
  [Apla kitao]
• How much is it?Πόσο κοστίζει;
  [Poso kostizi?]
• That's too expensiveΑυτό είναι πολύ ακριβό
  [Afto ine poli akribo]
• Can you lower the price?Μπορείτε να μειώσετε την τιμή;
  [Boreite na miosete tin timi?]

• What time is it?Τι ώρα είναι;
  [Ti ora ine?]
• It's one o'clockΕίναι μία ώρα
  [Ine mia ora]
• Half past (10)Μισή (10)
  [Misi (10)]
• MorningΠρωί
  [Proi]
• AfternoonΑπόγευμα
  [Apoyevma]
• EveningΒράδυ
  [Vradi]
• YesterdayΧθες
  [Hthes]
• TodayΣήμερα
  [Simera]
• TomorrowΑύριο
  [Avrio]
• 1Ένα
  [Ena]
• 2Δύο
  [Dio]
• 3Τρία
  [Tria]
• 4Τέσσερα
  [Tessera]
• 5Πέντε
  [Pente]
• 6Έξι
  [Exi]
• 7Επτά
  [Epta]
• 8Οκτώ
  [Okto]
• 9Εννέα
  [Ennea]
• 10Δέκα
  [Deka]

• Where's a/the...?Πού είναι ένα/το...;
  [Pou ine ena/to...?]
• What's the address?Ποια είναι η διεύθυνση;
  [Pia ine i diefthinsi?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Μπορείτε να μου δείξετε (στο χάρτη);
  [Boreite na mou dixete (sto charti)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Πότε είναι το επόμενο (λεωφορείο);
  [Pote ine to epomeno (leoforeio)?]
• A ticket (to ....)Ένα εισιτήριο (για το...);
  [Ena isitirio (ya to...)?]

Mykonos, a jewel of the Cyclades, traces its roots back to ancient times. The island is named after Mykons, a local hero who was supposedly a descendant of the god Apollo. Archaeological findings suggest that Mykonos was inhabited since the early Neolithic period, with remnants of early settlements and tools providing a glimpse into its prehistoric past.

In Greek mythology, Mykonos is closely associated with Hercules. It is said that the legendary hero defeated the Giants during the Gigantomachy and buried them under the rocks of Mykonos. This mythological connection added a layer of mystical allure to the island, making it a subject of ancient lore and storytelling.

During the Classical and Hellenistic periods, Mykonos thrived as a maritime hub due to its strategic location. The island developed strong trade connections with other parts of Greece and the Mediterranean. It became known for its bustling harbors, flourishing commerce, and the establishment of numerous temples and public buildings.

Under Roman rule, Mykonos continued to prosper, benefiting from the Pax Romana which facilitated trade and cultural exchange. During the Byzantine era, the island experienced significant religious influence, with the construction of several Christian churches and monasteries. Mykonos became a vital religious center in the Aegean Sea.

In the early 13th century, Mykonos came under Venetian control, which lasted until the Ottoman Turks conquered the island in the 16th century. The Venetians fortified Mykonos, constructing castles and defensive structures. Under Ottoman rule, Mykonos faced periods of hardship, including pirate attacks and heavy taxation, but managed to retain a degree of autonomy and cultural identity.

Mykonos played a significant role in the Greek War of Independence against Ottoman rule. In 1822, the island's inhabitants, led by the renowned heroine Manto Mavrogenous, bravely defended Mykonos from Turkish attacks. Manto Mavrogenous became a national symbol of courage and resistance, and her legacy is still celebrated on the island today.

The 20th century brought profound changes to Mykonos. The island transitioned from a quiet, agrarian society to a world-famous tourist destination. The advent of air travel and the rise of the global tourism industry transformed Mykonos into a hotspot for celebrities, artists, and travelers from around the world. Its picturesque landscapes, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage attracted an international audience.

Today, Mykonos seamlessly blends its ancient history with modern luxury. The island is renowned for its whitewashed buildings, iconic windmills, and pristine beaches. It remains a cultural melting pot, hosting international festivals, art exhibitions, and maintaining its status as a premier travel destination. Despite its popularity, Mykonos has managed to preserve its unique charm, making it a must-visit location for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.

Mykonos is accessible by air and sea. The Mykonos Island National Airport (JMK) offers regular flights from Athens and other European cities. Alternatively, ferries from Athens (Piraeus and Rafina ports) and other Cycladic islands like Santorini and Naxos operate frequently. The ferry ride from Athens takes about 3-5 hours depending on the type of vessel.

Mykonos has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses that connect major towns and beaches. Taxis are available but can be scarce during peak times. Renting a car, ATV, or scooter is a popular option for exploring the island at your own pace. Walking is also feasible within Mykonos Town (Chora) due to its compact nature.

The official currency is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, though some smaller establishments may prefer cash. ATMs are readily available across the island. It is advisable to carry some cash, especially for use in more remote areas or small businesses.

Mykonos is generally safe for tourists. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur, especially in crowded areas like Mykonos Town and popular beaches. Always keep an eye on your belongings and avoid leaving valuables unattended. There are no specific high-crime areas, but staying vigilant is always recommended.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Mykonos has a hospital located near the town of Ano Mera, along with several pharmacies across the island. Travel insurance that covers medical emergencies is highly recommended. For minor health issues, local pharmacies can provide over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable, casual clothing, but avoid beachwear in town. At night, casual chic is appreciated in restaurants and bars. Religion: Do respect religious sites by dressing modestly and keeping noise levels down. Public Transport: Do have your ticket ready when boarding the bus. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Kalimera' (Good morning) or 'Kalispera' (Good evening). Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and wines. Don't rush; meals are meant to be enjoyed leisurely.

Experience Mykonos like a local by exploring its lesser-known beaches like Agios Sostis and Fokos. Visit local tavernas for authentic Greek cuisine. Attend a traditional Greek night with live music and dancing. Avoid visiting popular spots during peak hours to enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere. Engage with locals who are often friendly and willing to share insider tips about the island.