My wanderlust was ignited to go on a journey to an enchanting Mediterranean country long before hearing this quote from My Big Fat Greek Wedding: “There are two kinds of people: Greeks, and everyone else who wish they were Greek.”
The birthplace of several noted mathematicians, artists and philosophers and the cradle of Western civilisation, the country includes 6000 islands and islets scattered in the Greek Seas, of which only 227 are inhabited. The islands are the main characteristic of Greece’s geomorphology and an integral part of the country’s culture across the ages.
Known mostly for its collection of complex ancient temples, islands and beaches, Greece is a delightful destination all year round with numerous picturesque places, hospitable people, stunning beaches, glorious weather, exclusive food flavours … a fascinating exploration of tastes, unexpected combinations and endless variety.
In a country with a long, impressive history and traditions, the Parthenon is a former temple on the Athenian Acropolis, dedicated to the goddess Athena during the fifth century BC. One of the most prominent and iconic buildings on the hill, it was built almost 2500 years ago.
The choice was discernible to opt for ‘‘celebration vacations’’, which continue to trend in 2024. We selected a destination that offered unforgettable opportunities to make memories with everyone – making our visit an authentic and enriching experience. We made long-lasting recollections through multigenerational travel in Mykonos by making it a goal for families who seek togetherness in faraway places.
However, there are two faces to Mykonos, an island of beauty and magic: one is its obviously intense, shiny and cosmopolitan aspect, the other is particularly attractive, with stone-paved alleys, whitewashed houses and alleyways, country chapels and windmills that ooze calm and peace.
A special note is it can cover a variety of demands: visit it for its archaeological sites, get to know the local traditions in its picture-perfect villages, and explore the amazing beaches, considered to be the top ones in the Aegean Sea.
Easily accessed from Australia via Doha (the capital of Qatar), Mykonos is the ideal destination to broach the generational divide, and the five-star Myconian Collection luxe hotel portfolio offers the fitting solution to cater to the interests and accommodation requirements of families and friends of all ages.
Family-owned since 1979, the Myconian Collection operates 12 special properties in four of the most sought-after locations on Mykonos, including two hotels specifically designed around generous villa-style accommodation – Myconian Villa Collection and Panoptis Escape.
While families with children and teens can ride horses on the beach, ramp up the adrenaline with water sports at the beach or shop until they drop in lively Mykonos Town, older family members can read a book by their private plunge pool, indulge in spa treatments or take a chauffeur-driven tour around the island. Watching a sunset is a special time on the island.
The Myconian Villa Collection on Mykonos’s serene south coast offers a unique accommodation concept with uninterrupted panoramic views of the Aegean Sea for a slice of summer bliss.
One of the owners of the Myconian Collection Hotels & Resort Group, Vangelis Daktylides, said: “Travelling in a multigenerational group creates incredible memories for children of all ages and brings great joy to older generations who are able to see their children and grandchildren discovering the world.
“We’re seeing an increase in family group bookings to celebrate major birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, graduations and more, and our multi-roomed villas offer the ideal blend between private and shared spaces so families can find a balance between time together and time to pursue their own interests.”
Nestled into the hillside above Elia Bay on Mykonos’s serene south coast, the Myconian Villa Collection has flexible accommodation configurations, some with private pools, offering uninterrupted panoramic views of the Aegean Sea for a slice of summer bliss.
For a Panoptis Escape, the property’s contemporary design features a minimalist aesthetic where laidback luxury is combined with privacy. Situated atop the hill overlooking Elia Beach, such an escape comprises 18 stunning, spacious villas with unparalleled views over one of the island’s most beloved beaches.
If you stay at both properties, you can access a complimentary shuttle service, making it easy to spend lazy days on parasol-protected sunbeds on a private stretch of beach, complete with bar service for cocktails, smoothies and light bites. Those with an appetite for action can try their hand at kayaking, windsurfing, waterskiing, parasailing, wakeboarding or scuba diving.
Greece is always in season, standing out for its mountainous landscapes, incredible weather, numerous beguiling islands, long sandy beaches and uncountable attractions of all kinds. Mykonos definitely delivers!