CYCLADES

The unique scenery found throughout the group of islands known as the Cyclades is the very image that accompanies all those who think of a holiday in Greece. They are of varying sizes scattered over the deep blue waters of the Aegean Sea. Some of the Cyclades, such as Mykonos, Santorini, Paros and Ios, have vigorously embraced the tourist industry; others, such as Andros, Tinos, Kea, Kythnos, Serifos and Sifnos, are visited infrequently by foreigners but are favorites with local holidaymakers. The group called the Cyclades consists of some hundreds of islands and islets of which 33 are inhabited. These form one of the most attractive groups of islands to be found anywhere in the world, with some 200 easily accessible beaches and countless more, which are more difficult to get to. The Cyclades got their name from the belief on the part of the ancient Greeks that they lay in a circle around the Holy Island of Delos, where Apollo and Artemis were born. The first inhabitants are given by Greek mythology as the Carians, the Leleges and the Phoenicians, who all contributed in turning the Cyclades into a major cultural centre, lasting for thousands of years. The unique natural beauty of the Cyclades, their unusual landscapes, mild and pleasant climate with long periods of sunshine and strong winds to keep down the heat, sandy beaches, caves, traditional customs and architecture, are some of the factors that make the Cyclades a Mecca for tourists each summer. And as for conference tourism in particular, the islands can come up to any standard set, no matter how high, thanks to their excellent infrastructure.

Mykonos

Mykonos is probably the most expensive and heavily noised of all Greek islands, featuring superb beaches. The fabled island is the perfect excuse for a short business trip and a chance to mingle with its large numbers of tourists from all over the world, socialites, intellectuals, artists and famous politicians. Officially declared a traditional landmark, Mykonos emerges in its white and blue colours to conquer the heart of every visitor, irrespective of whether the visit happens to involve business of not. The picturesque harbour, where fishing boats and luxury yachts anchor side-by-side, presents a different aspect to most of the other Aegean island-towns. Dazzling white, cube-shaped and flat-roofed homes with terraces and brightly painted wooden doors and windows coexist harmoniously with small but majestic churches. The town of Mykonos, or Chora, attracts the largest portion of the island"s economic, commercial and tourist share. It is an enchanting warren of chic boutiques and chimerical houses with brightly painted balconies draped in bougainvillae and clematis. The district of Lakka, which includes the harbour and the narrow alleys in the town centre, comprises the island"s unique commercial centre, which features some of the most famous brands in the world. With many folk shops and expensive boutiques, this shopping centre has acquired world fame for its goldsmiths. Dozens of bars, restaurants and discotheques open their doors to a cosmopolitan lifestyle unlike that of any other island.

Santorini

Santorini (also known as Thira) is regarded by many as the most spectacular of the Greek islands. Thousands of tourists come every year to gape at the sea-filled caldera, a vestige of what was probably the world"s largest volcanic eruption, ever. Despite the crowds who visit in the summer, Santorini"s weirdness, apparent in its black-sand beaches and mighty cliffs, holds a distinct allure. In its own right a unique destination, Santorini is a pole of attraction for tourists, historians, geologists archaeologists, and people who wish to witnesses one of our planet"s most significant geological phenomena, but still a rare natural beauty with one of the prettiest sunsets in the Mediterranean. A massive volcanic eruption, which occurred around 1600 BC, buried everything on the island and preserved the ancient settlements in Akrotiri for some 3500 years. Archaeological excavations have revealed one of the most significant findings in the 20th century, which in modern times has been attracting thousands of visitors from the four corners of the globe. The island"s uniquely flavoured wine, enjoying widespread recognition, has been a significant source of income for Santorini, and the new and old traditional wineries represent a valuable incentive for trips combining wine-tasting and business. The wide range of accommodations available combines the best of both worlds, with traditional guest-houses and modern establishments offering almost every facility under the sun, a personal approach, and in most cases a breathtaking view that will be very hard to forget. The island"s conference infrastructure and perfectly preserved cultural heritage classify it as the ideal destination for events of any magnitude, while famous establishments such as the Nomikos Conference Centre and the Boutari Winery, give organizers an unbeatable comparative advantage on a European and worldwide scale.

Paros

Considered by many as one of the most attractive destinations, Paros has joined the ranks of the most popular Greek destinations with an impressive tourist infrastructure and the capacity to stage successful business and leisure-related events. The island is characterised by alternating valleys and mountains, and a coastal formation that features a sequence of splendid beaches and highly secluded coves, ideal for those wanting to spend some time away from the crowds. Paroikia, the island"s main town and grabber, is situated on the southern side and sheltered from the strong summer winds. Built in the traditional Cycladic style -white structures against the light-blue sky and deep blue sea- the town offers everything expected from a major tourist centre.

Tinos

Regarded primarily a sacred island due to the miraculous monastery and church of the Virgin Mary, dominating the town-port. Tinos is a relatively "undiscovered" island, mainly attracting some hundreds of thousands of domestic worshipers in mid-August every year. However the island is a fine choice for a holiday away from large crowds, offering visitors many beautiful beaches, as well as picturesque villages scattered on the mountains and some wonderful sights. The island"s tourist infrastructure is well developed with numerous hotels offering all types of accommodation. Delicious local recipes are prepared and searched in most villages, while restaurants and taverns offer traditional delicacies and fresh seafood. The many elaborately decorated dovecotes are a unique feature throughout the island.

Andros

The second largest island in the group, Andros has many natural beauties, including historical monuments, traditional villages, suburb beaches and some medicinal springs. The capital, Chora, a most attractive town featuring neo-classical mansions next to housing of traditional Cycladic architecture, steep and narrow allies lined with arcades, and fine churches will certainly leave a lasting impression.

Delos

The sacred island of Delos, the birthplace of the god Apollo and the goddess Artemis, is today a vast archaeological site whose suburb monuments draw thousands of visitors in pilgrimage to what once used to be the political and religious centre of the Aegean. Apart from the sanctuary of Apollo, impressive monuments to admire include the four temples to Apollo, the Treasuries, the Arcade of Antihonus, and the Terrace of the Lions, the Agora of the Italians, the Stadium and the Gymnasium. The island"s museum houses a number of sculptures dating back to the Archaic, Classical, Hellenistic and Roman periods. A visit to Delos is a must for all tourists interested in Classical Greece, especially since it is daily connected with Mykonos by sea.