World, Hold On: Santorini

Upon arrival in Santorini, I have to admit I was a little confused. I expected a gorgeous port like there was in Hydra, but it was basically just a parking lot with a bunch of buses and travel agencies. We all hopped on a bus and as we drove up a very steep, winding hill, I was still perplexed. Where were all the blue and white churches and buildings you saw in the postcards? As we rode into town, we saw a lot of vacant land and houses that were being rebuilt. We were all looking at each other, a little confused that Santorini wasn't what everyone said, until we walked up a cobblestone hill and arrived at our hotel. At the top of the island, overlooking the sea, THIS was Santorini. I had to laugh at myself for doubting the island even for a second.

The view from our Hotel room

Our cute little cave-like hotel room

On our second day, we ventured out to the "Red Beach." I've only been to a white sand beach, so this was quite the experience! It was unlike any beach I've ever seen, but Greece has continued to show me unique beaches everytime...

On our last day, we went to Oia and walked down what felt like a million stone steps to get to a more secluded swimming area. Not only was the swimming and rock jumping some of the best I've ever done, but the walk down was so cool that all the huffing and puffing was way worth it.

When we arrived in Oia, we found what Santorini was all about. Suddenly, I started seeing postcards right before my eyes...

For all the dog lovers in my life...

Another amazing sunset on a rooftop restaurant...

Other pictures...

It's a tradition in the program to watch the Santorini sunset over a special dinner, and all of us were in awe instead of diving for plates of food. In a way, a sunset is like a really good meal, it just keeps getting better and better, then suddenly it's gone! Maybe that's a weird analogy, but it's all I can come up with right now...What do you think?