Under The Sun Travel - Tiffany Howard

01/11/2024

Milos, our final island stop, welcomed us with open arms and a breathtaking harbor view from our hotel balcony. We arrived by ferry and, thanks to the proximity of our hotel, quickly settled in and soaked in the first of many stunning views together from our spacious balcony.

After securing our rental car, we strolled to a cozy waterfront restaurant, a gem recommended by the kind souls at our hotel. The meal? A delicious blend of local flavors including dips, Greek Salad, Meatballs and Mussels.

The next day, after a hearty breakfast at the hotel, we opted for history with visits to the mystical catacombs and the ancient theater of Milos. Nestled into the side of a hill near Trypiti village, the Milos Catacombs are among the most significant early Christian monuments in the world. Dating back to the 1st century AD, these catacombs served as a burial ground and a secret meeting place for Christians during times of persecution by the Roman Empire. The catacombs are carved into soft volcanic rock, creating an intricate network of galleries and chambers. It's estimated that about 2,000 people were laid to rest here and it showcases the resilience and resourcefulness of early Christians.

The ancient theater of Milos is a stunning relic of the Hellenistic Period, dating back to the 3rd century BC. Perched on a hillside overlooking the vibrant blue Aegean Sea near the village of Trypiti, it offers not just a window into the past, but also breathtaking views. Constructed primarily out of marble, this semi-circular theater originally seated around 7,000 spectators. Its current, partially restored state provides a glimpse into its former grandeur.

Our journey then took us to the quaint fishing village of Klima, where colorful boathouses lined the shore. Sipping a cold beer, we met a lovely couple from the UK who’ve been drawn to Greece for an incredible 30 years—a testament to Greece’s enduring charm.

Lunch was a delightful affair at Methismeni, where the Grandfather's old oil press mill has been masterfully transformed into a family-run restaurant offering genuine local cuisine. They have a traditional wood-burning oven and every bite was a tribute to tradition and flavor.

While the boys took a breather back at the hotel, Doug and I set off to discover one of Milos' sublime, uncrowded beaches. The day slipped into night as we relished the peacefulness of our surroundings, ending the day on our balcony with nothing but sweets for dinner!

Milos captured our hearts with its rustic beauty and serene landscapes. Can’t wait to share more about our Greek escapades with you all! We still had yet to discover Sarakiniko Beach!

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31/10/2024

29/10/2024

Enchanting Days in Santorini!

Our Santorini adventure began with a scenic ferry ride, leading us to the heart of Oia—a place as magical as the stories promise. We spent our first day meandering through charming pathways, each corner revealing breathtaking views. Lunch with caldera vistas was unforgettable, and as the sun dipped below the horizon, we savored its spectacle while sipping wine on our hotel rooftop. Dinner nearby was the perfect end to a picturesque day.

Our exploration extended from Oia with a bus ride to Fira, embarking on the iconic hike from Fira to Oia. Only Trent completed the journey! As the rest of us decided to return from Imerovigli. He caught up with us hot and triumphant. We all spent some time unwinding by the pool, soaking in the serene surroundings.

Adorned in colors of Santorini—blue and white—we captured the magic of the island in a few photographs before heading to a dinner that felt instantly special and became a trip highlight. The staff at our restaurant were genuinely friendly, adding warmth to the atmosphere. One server had a touch of humor, while another seemed lost in the music, as if transported back in time. The combination of amazing food, live Greek melodies, and endearing company made our evening truly unforgettable.

Our last moments in Santorini were spent wandering the captivating streets of Oia, letting the island's charm soak in before catching our late afternoon ferry onwards to Milos. Oh, and I think remarkably this may be the only cat picture we got on the whole trip. There are so many cats in Greece and today happens to be National Cat Day!

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28/10/2024

Cooking Class in the Mountains!

Our day began with a winding, scenic and very narrow drive to a 5th generation family taverna nestled in the mountains—a hidden gem of Naxos. The warm welcome from our hosts set the tone for a day bursting with flavors and fun. We strolled the family gardens, gathering produce, before rolling up our sleeves at the grand table for our cooking class. Jack, our guide, spotlighted the magic of authentic Greek olive oil and the garden's bounty.

Everything was homegrown; from veggies to wines—nurtured right on this beautiful property. While our meal roasted, we wandered by the river, as Jack told us the history of Naxos and his land. The return leisurely walk to the taverna was relaxing, and soon, it was time to indulge in our hard-earned, delectable feast. Jack told me that with the success of the cooking classes, they really only offer that now instead of needing to have the taverna open late into the night. This helps the family greatly since they need to get up so early to work the gardens.

The celebration turned up a notch with traditional Greek dancing and the oh-so-fun plate smashing! An experience etched in our hearts, forever reminding us of the lively Greek spirit. We had a great time at this cooking class and really enjoyed the hosts and other participants!

We decided to end our day with beachside tranquility. Trent and I went to get coffee and pastries at a beachside cafe followed by all of us enjoying a light feast of gyros for dinner at a nearby restaurant. Every moment was savored of this unforgettable day!

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25/10/2024

Our day began by venturing into the charming mountain villages of Naxos. We strolled through Filoti, savoring delightful pastries and aromatic coffee. Next stop, Apiranthos. Picture-perfect settings fed our souls and our bellies. Oh, and a donkey decided to crash our lunchtime views – a truly authentic Greek moment!

After our time exploring a couple of the villages, it was time to go find a couple of the island's beaches. We swam in the refreshing waters at two of them and then from a distance, saw the kite surfers at a couple more as we made our way back to our hotel.

We got cleaned up and I could not resist going back to Naxos Town so we decided to conclude our day there again. We had a wonderful dinner at one of the beautiful restaurants in the area before setting out along the maze-like paths to uncover new secrets.

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Getaway

23/10/2024

Our journey continues as we sail from the bustling energy of Athens to the serene beauty of Naxos. We took the ferry over and upon arriving at the port, we picked up our rental car - the key to exploring this stunning island. Just a 15-minute drive led us to our charming hotel, a true oasis just a stone’s throw from the beach.

Imagine being welcomed poolside with a chilled beer in hand, the warm Naxian breeze gently welcoming us. Thanasis, our charismatic host, made check-in a breeze with his impeccable hospitality and insider tips for local dining delights. That evening, we strolled to a nearby beachside restaurant for dinner and then we explored local shops and markets.

The next morning introduced two adventures: while the boys ascended the mighty Mt. Zeus, Doug and I basked in a more relaxed morning at the beach. Pure bliss under the sun's gentle warmth.

Reuniting at the hotel pool for some refreshing downtime, we later ventured to Naxos Town. This bustling spot, home to the Portara, mesmerized us with its ancient charm. The Portara, or "Great Door," is the iconic marble gateway that greets visitors arriving into Naxos Town. The Portara is the remnant of an unfinished temple dedicated to Apollo, dating back to the 6th century BC. It's believed that the temple was never completed due to political and economic upheavals.

Dinner was once again waterside and a recommendation from Thanasis. It did not disappoint. The evening concluded with us getting lost in the enchanting maze of Chora, wrapping things up with a sweet treat from the famed Waffle House.

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21/10/2024

Our second day in Athens was just as full of wonder as the first! We started off with a quintessential Athenian morning at a charming sidewalk coffee shop. ️

Our journey took us from the National Gardens to the ancient marvels of the Temple of Zeus ruins. A standout stop was the Panathenaic Stadium. Originally built in the 4th century BC, this magnificent marble marvel was revamped for the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. Standing in its grandeur, we couldn’t help but feel the echoes of athletes who have raced these grounds through the ages. Today, it is the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble. That’s one sight checked off the bucket list! Inside, we explored the display of Olympic torches, each with its unique design. from the sleek lines of the 1956 torch to the modern elegance of the latest 2024 torch, each one tells a story of unity and competition that stretches across continents. The 2024 torch, with its futuristic flair, marks another chapter in the enduring Olympic legacy.

Upon leaving the stadium, we walked past the Presidential Mansion where the precision of the guards captivated us. It was time for another caffeine fix. This was the coffee shop where we met the three delightful gentlemen regulars who assured us they meet there often to solve the problems of the world. They were fun to talk with on our little break.

Adventure called us to Mt. Lycabettus via the funicular, offering panoramic views of Athens that simply took our breath away. According to legend, this majestic hill was formed when Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom, accidentally dropped a limestone mountain intended for the Acropolis. We took in the views of Athens sprawling below, tracing our footsteps leading to this breathtaking vantage point.

After coming down from Mt. Lycabettus, time was on our side as we walked over to see the Changing of the Guard. This is done at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier every hour day and night.

Lunch hit the spot at a taverna from our "must-try" list. After wandering through the Psyri neighborhood, the lively atmosphere drew us to a sidewalk table at Beer Time for a not-so-quick beer. Here, beneath the gentle Athens sun, we swapped stories with fellow travelers. A nice couple shared their adventures from Milos and offered us a few tips since we were going to be visiting the island later in our trip. It is always a joy to connect with others that share our passion for exploring the world.

We planned to end the day at a great rooftop bar with stunning sunset views of the Acropolis so we made our way to City Zen. Our table was perfect with a wonderful view and we enjoyed the food. The sight as the city lights up is truly magical.

Though we were intending to call it a day, we couldn’t resist stopping by Little Kook after, decked out in full Halloween decor—it was the perfect whimsical finale to our day with desserts and drinks. Athens was amazing and we definitely need more time here!

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18/10/2024

Our first day in Athens began with excitement and a combo pass in hand! We couldn't wait to uncover the marvels of Athens. After a quick bite at a local bakery (where the sweet aroma of pastries filled the air), we strolled through the Ancient Agora. 🌿 The handsomely preserved Temple of Hephaestus and the Stoa of Attolos were magnificent sights to behold!

Ignoring all the advice, our Acropolis escapade was set for the heat of noon. Was it toasty? Oh, yes! But the anticipation to check this iconic landmark off my list was too compelling. The sun didn’t seem to notice us as we stood in awe of the Parthenon's majestic columns. It’s impossible not to be moved as you try to fathom how these grand structures were meticulously crafted with such precision, thousands of years ago.

After our Acropolis adventure, we climbed the Areopagus Hill—a spot rich in history where Apostle Paul once delivered his famous sermon to the Athenians. Post-Areopagus, we relaxed at a shady café with a cool beer, savoring the peaceful vibe before heading to Guarantee—a beloved sandwich haven since 1988. Their sandwiches were little parcels of deliciousness that perfectly fueled our energetic exploration!

With sandwiches in hand, we set out to find Anafiotika. Anafiotika was built by craftsmen from the island of Anafi in the 19th century. They came to Athens to construct King Otto's Palace, and infused this neighborhood with their island’s charm and tranquility, creating a tiny Cycladic escape in the heart of the city. Its quaint, vibrant streets led us naturally into the bustling Plaka, where we embraced the local culture with refreshing drinks at a classic sidewalk café. I tried ouzo even though I was certain I would not enjoy it. I was right!

Dinner was a feast of gyros and lukemades—each bite more comforting than the last. With full hearts and bellies, we wrapped up our day with wine on our rooftop, under a blanket of stars, watching the Acropolis twinkle in harmony with the moon.

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15/10/2024

A Welcome Like No Other!

It wasn’t just the sights that stole our hearts. From the very first Kalimera (good morning), we were wrapped in the genuine warmth and hospitality that is quintessentially Greek. Locals welcomed us as if we were old friends, eager to share not just their culture and history but also to hear our stories. Every smile felt heartfelt, every gesture of kindness came naturally – whether in a bustling taverna, where the aroma of freshly baked bread and olive oil danced in the air, or in the hum of the streets, alive with life and chatter. The warmth of the people enveloped us like a familiar cozy blanket, making our stay truly unforgettable.

We stopped in a coffee shop one morning on our way to Mt. Lycabettus and met 2 Georges and a Kristos. They were so kind and we had to break ourselves away or I think we could have talked to them all morning long. One of the gentlmen named George told us how his parents actually lived in Lawton, OK for a time and if he had been born just a year earlier he would have likely been born in Oklahoma!

14/10/2024

Athens! A Dream Unraveled!

We arrived in Athens as the city was still nestled in for the night and we embraced the quiet moments before dawn as we made our way toward Monastiraki Square. We stepped into our room, full of anticipation, and began to look around. After checking out the inside, it was time to see what I had been waiting for. We pulled back the curtains to our balcony and there it was-The Acropolis, resplendent and ethereal, glowing against the midnight blue heaven. It was a breathtaking sight that words fail to capture, but as I gazed from our balcony, tears of awe filled my eyes. Standing there with my family, the Parthenon illuminated before me, vivid memories flooded back. I recalled the tales I learned in school about Greek mythology. Stories of gods and goddesses, heroes and adventures. These were narratives that had stirred my young imagination, and to see the very place where these legends were alive was nothing short of magical. The magnificence of the Parthenon, bathed in light, seemed to whisper stories of times gone by and taking me back to those childhood days of wonder and curiosity. And I was going to explore it all while we were there!

One of the memories I will carry with me and will be able to recall almost daily is putting on my mascara in the full-length mirror in our room and seeing the Acropolis out of the corner of my eye. The mirror was just next to our balcony door and so I could glimpse it as I stood there. Now, every morning as I put on my mascara, I will be reminded of that moment. Amazing!

11/10/2024

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09/10/2024

When in Istanbul, eat like the locals! We started with a fish wrap from a street vendor. He only had a few more fish available for the night and we got some of the last of them. It was fascinating watching him pick out all of the tiny bones with his utensils. We all tried a sandwich made from lamb intestine I think it was. Trent had mussels and Tyler opted for a delectable kebab wrap. We tried the strong Turkish coffee and then ended our amazing night with the most wonderful baklava. Latif told us to turn the baklava upside down to take a bite. He said this way, the sweetest part is at the top of our mouth and not right on our tongue allowing us to enjoy it better and really experience the layers. We loved our short time in Istanbul and feel that it really made good use of our time.

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07/10/2024

We kicked off our family adventure with a night to remember in Istanbul during our layover on our way to Greece! Turkish Airlines actually offers free tours during long layovers but we opted for a private tour to maximize our limited time. It gave us the freedom and comfort to explore this charming city as we wanted, under the moonlight. We met our driver just outside the airport and he took us to meet our guide for the night where we slipped into the rich tapestry of Turkiye!

Our journey began at the historical heart of Istanbul-the Hippodrome. Hippos means horse and dromos is a path or way. Horse racing and chariot racing were popular pastimes of the ancient world. We wandered through the historical monuments while our guide explained their significance to us. We were also fortunate to be able to go inside and see the Blue Mosque.

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02/10/2024

What is one of the best things you have brought back from your travels? A souvenir that you have brought back with you and where was it from?

This is not necessarily the best thing but I sure do love it! I pass by this cute little tuk tuk all the time in my living room and it reminds me of our amazing Thailand trip last year!

30/09/2024

Why use a travel agent? One good reason is that if something goes other than intended on your vacation, I am here to help you. Please contact me. You have paid a lot of money for your trip and I am your advocate. Little things that can mar an experience can typically be fixed easily and that is what I am here for.

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26/09/2024

My Favorite Color!!

24/09/2024

We took a journey through Country Music History at the Country Music Hall of Fame!

This museum is a living archive of country music's storied past and ever evolving future. Wandering through the halls we encountered a treasure trove of memorabilia, from vintage instruments to stage costumes that narrate the rich tapestry of country music.

The rotunda was a moving part of our experience. There are numerous plaques honoring legendary artists who've shaped country music.

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20/09/2024

Musician Spotlight with Michael Rinne at the Country Music Hall of Fame!

We had the privilege of sitting in on a truly special Musician Spotlight Session featuring the incredibly talented Michael Rinne. This intimate and soulful session was nothing short of wonderful. Michael is a gifted bassist and songwriter and he captivated us with his talent and compelling stories from the stage and the road. He toured with Miranda Lambert for 5 years.

The audience was given the chance to ask questions between songs making it even more special and it was a reminder of the power of live music. A moment that felt both fleeting and timeless.

They do Songwriter Sessions on certain days and Musician Spotlight Sessions on certain days at the Country Music Hall of Fame.

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18/09/2024

Road Trip Snacks!

What is your favorite? What do you love to bring or buy when you go on road trips?
Mine is Chili Cheese Fritos! That is pretty much the only time I ever eat them but I love'em!

17/09/2024

Another gem from our Nashville trip was the legendary RCA Studio B!

Known as the "Home of 1,000 Hits" this iconic recording studio on Music Row is where some of the biggest names in music laid down their tracks. Walking through the doors, you can almost hear the echoes of timeless hits from artists like Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton and Roy Orbison.

During our tour we got to experience:

--The very room where Elvis recorded over 200 songs!
--Original recording equipment that shaped the sound of classical country and rock 'n' roll
--Fascinating stories about how some of the greatest songs ever came to life

We even stood in the "sweet spot", the exact place where legends stood when recording their hits!

The Steinway piano is truly a piece of music history! It is the same piano that session musicians played on countless tracks but also the same that Elvis used when he was in the studio. The Steinway Piano has its own FaceBook page!

The energy and nostalgia of this historic studio make it a true sanctuary for music enthusiasts.

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12/09/2024

We discovered the art of Printmaking at Hatch Show Print Tour in Nashville!

Hatch Show Print has been crafting stunning posters since 1879, and stepping into this storied workshop is like flipping through chapters in American history. During our tour we got a behind-the-scenes look at:

--Centuries-old letterpress machines
--Posters of legendary musicians like Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley and Dolly Parton
--The meticulous process of printmaking, from design to final print

We even had the chance to create our own print. A unique hands-on experience! The many colors, rich textures and vintage designs epitomize the spirit of Nashville's creative soul.

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11/09/2024

Today we remember and honor the lives lost on 9-11.

10/09/2024

Just back from the vibrant city of Nashville and this time we hit up a few more museums. I did not know much about Johnny Cash before this visit but the Johnny Cash Museum was a goldmine of history, music and memories. From his timeless hits to personal anecdotes, the museum offers a glimpse into the life of a music legend.

Located right in the heart of downtown Nashville (and next door to Sun Diner!) the museum if filled with countless artifacts including:

Handwritten lyrics
Johnny's iconic stage outfits
Photos and videos capturing his life and career

Whether you are a die-hard fan or just curious about his legacy, the Johnny Cash Museum is a must-visit. It was about $25 per person and we probably spent a little over an hour looking but you could definitely spend longer!

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09/09/2024

Whale Shark Season is almost over in the Mexican Caribbean for this year. Did you know these gentle giants are the largest fish in the sea? In the Riviera Maya you can swim alongside these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Get in touch if you want to know more about swimming with whale sharks!

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