Santorini: A Jewel in the Aegean Sea

• HelloΓεια σας
  [Ya sas]
• GoodbyeΑντίο
  [Adio]
• YesΝαι
  [Ne]
• NoΌχι
  [Ochi]
• Please/You're welcomeΠαρακαλώ
  [Parakalo]
• Thank youΕυχαριστώ
  [Efharisto]
• Excuse me/SorryΣυγνώμη
  [Signomi]
• How are you?Τι κάνετε;
  [Tee kanete]
• 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 menou, 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 για γιατρό!
  [Kaleste ya yatro]
• 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 lookingΑπλώς κοιτάω
  [Aplis kitao]
• How much is it?Πόσο κοστίζει;
  [Poso kostizi]
• That's too expensiveΕίναι πολύ ακριβό
  [Ine poli akribo]
• Can you lower the price?Μπορείτε να μειώσετε την τιμή;
  [Borite na meiosete 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, deka]
• 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]
• 9Εννιά
  [Ennia]
• 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);
  [Borite na mou deksete (sto charti)]
• When's the next (bus)?Πότε είναι το επόμενο (λεωφορείο);
  [Pote ine to epomeno (leoforeio)]
• A ticket (to ....)Ένα εισιτήριο (για ...);
  [Ena isitirio (ya)]

Around 1600 BCE, the island of Santorini, then known as Thera, experienced one of the largest volcanic eruptions in recorded history. This catastrophic event, known as the Minoan eruption, led to the collapse of the central part of the island, forming the present-day caldera. The eruption had far-reaching effects, including the destruction of the Minoan settlement of Akrotiri and the disruption of the Minoan civilization on Crete. The event is also speculated to have inspired the legend of Atlantis.

Before the Minoan eruption, Santorini was home to a flourishing Bronze Age civilization. The ancient city of Akrotiri, often referred to as the 'Minoan Pompeii,' was a vibrant settlement with multi-story buildings, sophisticated drainage systems, and stunning frescoes. The well-preserved remains of Akrotiri provide invaluable insights into the advanced urban life that existed on the island during the 17th century BCE.

Following the decline of the Minoan civilization, the island was resettled by Dorians around the 9th century BCE. They established the city of Ancient Thera on a ridge of Mesa Vouno mountain. This city became a significant cultural and commercial center, with ruins that include temples, public buildings, homes, and a theater. Ancient Thera remained inhabited until the early Byzantine period.

In the medieval period, Santorini came under Byzantine control. In 1204, after the Fourth Crusade, the island was captured by the Venetians who fortified the island and built castles such as the one in Skaros. The Venetians left a lasting impact on the culture and architecture of Santorini, and their influence is still evident in the island's Catholic churches and fortified settlements.

Santorini fell under Ottoman rule in 1579 and remained part of the Ottoman Empire until the early 19th century. During this period, the island enjoyed a degree of autonomy and became an important maritime and commercial hub in the Aegean. Santorini's economy thrived, particularly in shipping and wine production.

In 1956, Santorini was struck by a devastating earthquake that caused significant damage to the island's infrastructure and buildings, particularly in the towns of Fira and Oia. The earthquake led to a mass exodus of residents, and the island's population significantly declined. However, the disaster also set the stage for extensive reconstruction and the eventual rise of Santorini as a premier tourist destination.

In recent decades, Santorini has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, renowned for its stunning caldera views, white-washed buildings, and vibrant sunsets. The island's unique geological history, combined with its rich cultural heritage and archaeological sites, continues to attract visitors from all corners of the globe. Modern Santorini seamlessly blends its ancient past with contemporary luxury, making it a must-visit location for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.

Santorini can be reached by both air and sea. The island's main airport, Santorini (Thira) National Airport, receives flights from Athens and other major European cities. Several airlines operate regular flights, especially during the tourist season. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Piraeus (Athens' main port) or other Aegean islands. High-speed ferries are quicker but more expensive, while conventional ferries take longer but are more budget-friendly.

Once on the island, you can use taxis, buses, rental cars, or ATVs to get around. The public bus system is reliable and covers most of the island, including popular destinations like Fira, Oia, and Kamari. Taxis are available but can be expensive during peak times. Renting a car or an ATV offers more flexibility for exploring at your own pace. Parking can be challenging in busy areas, so plan accordingly.

The official currency is the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and in more remote areas. ATMs are available in main towns, but they can run out of cash during peak tourist season, so plan ahead.

Santorini is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, standard safety precautions should be taken. Petty theft can occur, especially in crowded areas like Fira and Oia. Avoid leaving valuables unattended on the beach and be cautious in busy tourist spots. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant is always a good practice.

In case of emergency, dial 112, the European Union emergency number. The main hospital is located in Fira, and there are several medical clinics around the island. Pharmacies are well-stocked with over-the-counter medications for minor health issues. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For non-urgent issues, seek assistance from your hotel or local tourist information centers.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable clothing and footwear, especially if you plan to explore the island's rugged terrain. Avoid wearing swimwear away from the beach. Religion: Do dress modestly when visiting churches and monasteries. Women should cover their shoulders and knees. Public Transport: Do have exact change for bus fares. Don't eat or drink on public buses. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Kalimera' (Good morning) or 'Kalispera' (Good evening). Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies like moussaka, fava, and fresh seafood. Don't leave large tips; a small amount is appreciated.

To experience Santorini like a local, visit the smaller, less touristy villages like Pyrgos or Emporio. Try local wines at a winery; Santorini is famous for its Assyrtiko grape. Attend a church festival (panigiri) for an authentic cultural experience. Explore the island's hiking trails, such as the path from Fira to Oia, for stunning views and a sense of adventure. Engage with locals; they are often friendly and willing to share insights about the island's history and culture.