Were you dreaming of traveling and looking for somewhere unspoiled and undiscovered?

Life is all about experiences and doing things that make us happy. As the world slowly opens up after months of lockdowns and travel restrictions, Greece is ready to welcome all tourists for summer 2021.

There’s nothing quite like a Greek summer: the sun, sea, food, history, and the lovely people.

Consider Astypalea, that little butterfly-shaped island in the Aegean Sea – for an off-the-beaten-track island destination in Greece this summer, untouched by mass tourism.

Astypalea, meaning ‘old city’, and located in the South Aegean, is the ‘bridge; between the Cyclades and the Dodecanese island groups, combining elements from both.

You don’t need much to love Astypalea. It is a truly authentic island that holds on to tradition but blends in a cosmopolitan air, perfect for those that seek a unique destination far from the crowds. Many call Astypalea the hidden gem of the Aegean Sea.

Kallichoron Art Boutique Hotel reflects this in its essence, a hotel where the modern world meets traditional island charm. It’s a Green Key eco-labeled Art Boutique Hotel situated in the Chora of Astypalea, offering breathtaking views of the island’s landscape combined with premium services.

As safety is nowadays a decisive factor in planning our summer vacations, it is essential to mention that most of the adult population of Astypalea Island has been vaccinated, therefore qualifying it for safe tourism.

Fortunately, there are no active COVID-19 cases on Astypalea island reported so far.

Carolina Alkalai, co-founder and General Manager of Kallichoron Art Boutique Hotel, says, “there is no doubt that the past year has been transformational for us all. At Kallichoron, we passionately believe this world is meant to be explored, and it is our priority to make your Greek dream become a reality with the peace of mind you need. We have prepared cautiously and thoughtfully, adhering to the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene procedures. We look forward to welcoming guests to a safe and relaxing destination with open arms and open hearts. If we have learned anything during this pandemic, it is that we are all in this together and with discrete, yet thorough measures, Kallichoron saw zero cases of COVID all season in 2020.”

Local restaurants are open, providing service in outdoor areas and adhering to social distancing measures. Music is not allowed to be played yet, but it is only a matter of time when this measure will be lifted and bars will also be allowed to reopen.

At the time this article was published, all international travelers were required to provide a negative PCR COVID-19 test (taken within 72 hours before arrival to Greece) from government-approved centers. Alternatively, travelers can use documentation to prove they have been vaccinated or give evidence of having antibodies against the virus if they have recently recovered from it.

Anyone who enters Greece can be subject to random testing at airports or land entry points, just like last year.

Further to the above, the use of non-medical face masks is mandatory indoors and outdoors throughout Greece. The same protocols used in 2020 will apply for all tourist activities, transport, and visits to places of interest, as they have already proved effective.

The Greek government has detailed information on its dedicated website travel.gov.gr, updated regularly, and includes frequently asked questions on how Greece will be welcoming visitors this year.

Despite all these measures in place, the essence and joy of Greek summer remain the same. Lovely, friendly people will give you a warm welcome, albeit from afar – the beautiful landscapes, gorgeous houses, and painted villages are still there to enjoy.

The sea and the ‘golden hour,’ the smells of mountain herbs, tavernas, fishing boats, and the life around the harbors are here to inspire you and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Carolina has this message for visitors: “This year and forever, all we want is Astypalea, and to put a smile on your face, we are sharing with you an amazing offering. The ten first readers of Ethnikos Kirikas to book their vacation for the 2021 season will enjoy a 20% discount on the daily room rate (during July, for example, the price of a Deluxe Double Studio will be EUR 104.00 instead of EUR 130.00 per night).

Accommodation includes our award-winning personalized Grandma’s Breakfast curated by our dietician-nutritionist and served daily at your veranda with the best view in town, free shuttle service to/from the airport, as well as a bottle of premium Greek wine with a local cheese platter, to enjoy with your other half. We look forward to welcoming you in Greece … just at a safe distance.”