Helen Iatrou

An island group defined by history, unexpected architecture & traditional villages, the Dodecanese is one of a kind.
Spread across the southeastern Aegean, off the Turkish coast, the Dodecanese is made for leisurely island-hopping. If you’re yearning to discover a little bit of old-school Greece, this is the island group for you.
Dodecanese might translate in Greek as 12 islands, however, many more make up this diverse collection. While Rhodes and Kos might be familiar names, there are multiple islands off the well-traveled route worth discovering.

While Gleneagles in Scotland, Pebble Beach in the U.S., and Terre Blanche in France count among the globe’s most illustrious golf resorts, today’s golfing enthusiasts can choose to tee off amid rare wildlife, sink a hole in one in an ancient rainforest, or even pair an African safari with putt perfection. Here are five golf stays that transcend the ordinary.

If you’re looking to explore islands in close proximity to Athens by yacht charter, look no further than the Saronic.
Beloved weekend destinations for Athenians, the personalities of these islands vary from sophisticated to low-key and their attractions differ. What’s certain is that each one is sure to steal your heart.

As I made my way around the small but fascinating ancient site of Karthea, perched above twin coves on the Greek island of Kea, my flame-haired guide could barely contain her enthusiasm.
It was to be expected; Petroula Tatsopoulou is an archaeologist. But she was the first one I met in Greece employed by a hotel.
Following the opening of One&Only Aesthesis in 2023 on the Athens Riviera — One&Only’s debut property in Greece — the luxury hospitality brand cast open the doors of its second Greek...

Home to over 200 inhabited islands and thousands of rock islets, along with a lacy mainland coastline, Greece has long drawn sailors to its shores. Mariners from ancient times to the present day, among them Homer’s Odysseus and pilot book authors Rod and Lucinda Heikell, offer endless inspiration for yacht charterers.

This Eastern Mediterranean nation is the ultimate European summer yacht charter destination, beloved for its historical sites and traditions, crystalline seas and hearty cuisine. Above all, Greece is renowned for its warm hospitality.

Imbued with the freewheeling spirit of a twentysomething and the grace of an all-knowing grandmother, Thessaloniki is both ever-changing and familiarly welcoming.
So, when you mention Thessaloniki to Greeks, it’s no surprise that their eyes glisten with adoration. Greece’s second-biggest city evokes emotions for a multitude of reasons.

Santorini and Mykonos may face the most blame for the excesses of overtourism that negatively impact their reputations. However, these are not the only Greek islands where the delicate balance between relying on tourism to fuel the local economy and ensuring the destination retains the elements that attracted visitors in the first place has been upset.

Once the world’s biggest sailing yacht, the square-rigged Sea Cloud delivers thrills to its devotees and lifelong sailors. Since 1931, the majestic ship has sailed the world’s oceans, a graceful giant with a soul forged in wind and salt. She carries not just sails but stories. Every voyage aboard Sea Cloud feels like stepping into a living poem, where history and heart meet beneath billowing canvas and endless skies.

Wherever you find yourself on Greece’s islands, the range of epicurean temptations is seemingly limitless. Sailors have long been drawn to the calm, sapphire waters of the Ionian Sea, dropping anchor in protected coves that scallop the coastlines of places like Corfu, Kefalonia and Ithaki. Few, however, consider harnessing the meltemi wind that blows from the northeast between June and September to explore the Northeastern Aegean.

The cave suites offer a glimpse into Matera's lifestyle, while the Noble suites provide stunning views of the town.
From the rooms to the reception, contemporary Italian art pieces curated by hotelier Elsa Russo, catch the eye.
The spa, also built into a cave, has a Jacuzzi, steam room, sauna, cold plunge pool, and an outdoor relaxation area with spell-binding views.
A network of hiking trails that snake through Alta Murgia National Park is just a short walk from the hotel.
Enthusiastic local guides lead private walking tours of Matera and the nearby town of Altamura.

When the bougainvillea begin to blossom and the mistral starts to blow through the Mediterranean in spring, the yacht sailing season comes alive. From easygoing coastal regattas to challenging 600-nautical-mile races, the circuit welcomes sailors of all skill levels to experience the spirit of the sea.

Athens and I have been together almost three decades. Aussie-born with Greek roots, I was smitten with the rough-around-the-edges city the moment I stepped onto the airport tarmac and breathed in the summer air. Sure, we share a love/hate relationship. Motorbikes blaring outside my apartment window drive me mad. Wonky sidewalks planted with trees make traversing the city difficult. Summer traffic forces me to slow to a halt. But I adore Athens all the same.
Here’s my guide to navigating the best of Athens, including the top things to do, the must-try restaurants, and lovely hotels.

With its intriguing medieval Old Town, golden sand beaches, and hearty traditional cuisine, Rhodes has lured travelers for decades, many of whom return year after year. While the Dodecanese island is renowned for its 300-plus days of sunshine each year, you could be forgiven for thinking Rhodes is all about hanging out on the beach, feasting at homely tavernas, and partying at bohemian-styled beach bars. In recent years, Rhodes has evolved into a multi-faceted travel destination that attracts nature lovers, serious gourmands, and history buffs.

Greek food sings of the summer — it’s best enjoyed outside, from mainland mountaintops to island beaches. Mezze spreads celebrate punchy purple olives, garlicky dips and herb-sprinkled cheese, while salads of sun-ripened tomatoes, tangy feta and fragrant oregano are perfect with just-landed grilled fish or slow-stewed legumes cooked in outdoor ovens following recipes that date back to antiquity. Here are the nine essential dishes to try when in Greece.

Greek food sings of the summer — it’s best enjoyed outside, from mainland mountaintops to island beaches. Mezze spreads celebrate punchy purple olives, garlicky dips and herb-sprinkled cheese, while salads of sun-ripened tomatoes, tangy feta and fragrant oregano are perfect with just-landed grilled fish or slow-stewed legumes cooked in outdoor ovens following recipes that date back to antiquity. From Macedonia in the north to Crete in the south, we explore the country via its standout dishes.