After Assignment: Exploring Santorini & Mykonos

For someone who has lived in Europe for so long (going on 9 years this year), I have to say, it took an embarrassing amount of time to visit Greece. Honestly, Greece felt like one of those places that was always there and would always be there waiting for me. Plus, I’d heard a lot about the summer crowds, and that’s not really my vibe. Santorini specifically also felt like this place you had to go as a couple. And with room prices hiked for all the honeymooners, I felt like it was worth saving for a special occasion.

So, it probably comes as no surprise to hear that a job is what got me to this island in the first place. NOUS Santorini was entering its second summer season and needed a bank of creative, high-quality photos to promote everything they have to offer. Located a short drive from the white, world-famous cliffs of Oia, they’re perfectly situated outside the madness in a quiet haven where you can swim, spa and relax under the glorious Grecian sun. So when the shoot wrapped up, it was finally time to head into the big, little city and explore what all the hype was about.

In Oia, I was actually pleasantly surprised. This small, windy, crazy little place was just as beautiful as I’d imagined. And as someone who perpetually gets up early, I got to enjoy it practically all to myself each and every morning. Come afternoon, I’d escape the crowds and saunter to a long, lazy lunch with chilled wine and fresh fish. These early mornings allowed me to photograph the city with no one else in sight, and in much cooler temperatures. And while everyone else scarfed down lunch to run to the next viewpoint, I got to sit back, people watch and enjoy it all. I’d only brave the crowds in the evening, and even then, traveling solo always allowed me to get the best spots to catch the sunset.

Now Mykonos was never really part of the plan, but somehow, it was cheaper to book a ferry, stay in a hotel for 2 extra nights and fly back from Mykonos than it was in Santorini. So, this really just felt like I had to go. Of course, Mykonos comes with its own preconceptions as a crowded, rowdy party town. While I did dabble in some of the nightlife, I also kept the same pace here, getting up early ahead of my fellow travelers. I’d eat lunch later to avoid the crowds, too, and at night, find the best-looking gyro place around and lick my fingers clean before going bar hopping.

There’s a whole lot more I could say about these islands. But, I know you’re really just here for the photos. So, enjoy this peek at my trip!