A Greek Retreat
Travelling alone to Portugal and Greece has been one of the most enjoyable experiences of my life. So far, I have done this. Travelling alone may appear frightening and even dangerous at first, yet it is one of the most rewarding and changing experiences. Travelling alone for three days reveals more about who you are, your limitations, and your strengths than a year of everyday existence. Nothing beats realising that you have the entire day to yourself when you wake up in a new city.
I went to The Royal Grand Hotel in Corfu's Kanoni Bay district. This accommodation was booked through Love Holidays, a booking agent website. I was suspicious of the hotel after reading various reviews, but at the end of the day, everyone's experience is unique.
I paid for an all-inclusive board, and it was well worth it, especially with the limitless drinks. I recently enjoyed an all-inclusive board stay at a tropical resort, and the experience was nothing short of spectacular. The all-inclusive package, which is frequently marketed as a beacon of efficiency and luxury, proved to be the vital ingredient in making my holiday truly unforgettable.
Check-in was a breeze, and I was met promptly by a kind and welcoming staff eager to meet my every need. The worry of managing individual bills vanished, replaced by the freeing sensation of having everything covered.
Photo taken by Pey Enigbokan
The resort's dedication to quality could be seen in every detail, especially the attentive service offered by the staff. They seamlessly anticipated my wants, enhancing the overall experience with a personalised touch. The attention to detail extended to the cleanliness and upkeep of the facilities, producing a magnificent yet well-cared-for setting.
As a lone traveller, the all-inclusive board provided a sense of security and comfort, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the beauty of the area without having to worry about money. It's also a great alternative for families, guaranteeing that everyone, from the smallest to the oldest, has a relaxing holiday.
“We would like to express our satisfaction reading your nice words with regards to your recent stay at our hotel, it is a top award for us to know that you had a rewarding holiday experience and of course, we are looking forward to welcoming you back, if you ever plan to visit our beautiful island.” Panagiota Mylona, assistant Manager
Despite having an all-inclusive package, I wanted to visit Greek restaurants and sample new foods. During my three-day journey, I ate at four different restaurants, but my favourite was a lovely restaurant named Sky View. It has a fantastic environment, friendly personnel, and a variety of menu options. Because the restaurant was close to the airport, diners enjoyed an excellent view of flights arriving and departing. The view was extremely beautiful when the sun set.
I've learned to become best friends with Google Maps since I began solo travelling. It has never led me astray. There were instances when I just went with the flow and ended up in new places, but I used Google Maps for around 98 percent of my journey.
I learned to take the bus instead of taxis everywhere in Corfu. I was taken aback since I used Apple Pay to board the bus, which I had not anticipated. I had coins on me, but Apple Pay was simply more convenient. Using public transport allowed me to really appreciate the views and scenery of Corfu.
Photo taken by Pey Enigbokan
Visiting a new country allows you to explore and learn new things. I went to the Vlacherna Monastery.
The Vlacherna Monastery is thought to have been founded in the 17th century. It is thought to have started off as a women's monastery dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The precise circumstances of its formation, as well as the individuals involved, are somewhat obscured by the passage of time.
The monastery is named after the Virgin Mary, which is a frequent dedication for Greek Orthodox monastic establishments. The Vlacherna Monastery has long functioned as a site of worship, prayer, and reflection for both the local community and visitors.
The visit to the Vlacherna Monastery near Kanoni, Corfu, was both peaceful and culturally enriching. The monastery, nestled on a small peninsula connected by a causeway, provides a calm retreat with a mix of spiritual thought and breath-taking views.
Photo taken by Pey Enigbokan
The architecture of the monastery, with its white-washed simplicity, immediately draws the eye. The exterior has arches and domes that add to the sense of purity and grace. The monastery's modest beauty produces an environment that is both humble and awe-inspiring.
Vlacherna Monastery's terraces provide beautiful views of the Ionian Sea and Mouse Island.
The vantage point allows you to appreciate the natural beauty of the surroundings, making it a perfect location for photography or simply relaxing and admiring the panoramic view. Sunset creates a magnificent backdrop by bathing the environment in warm hues.
Interacting with locals who discussed the monastery's history and significance provided depth to the experience. The cultural conversation tailored the spiritual and historical significance of the location, which improved my understanding and respect of the local heritage.
Marima, a local resident, said, ‘I come to the monastery every time I need peace of mind or I am feeling overwhelmed. Being in the building brings me a sense of serenity and calmness. I am always happy to see tourists come in and feel the presence. I’ve spoken to some tourists, and they have told me after visiting the chapel area they do feel lighter. This is an open place for anyone to come to.”
On my second day, I decided to go on a boat tour around the island to explore the caldera and hidden bays. The boat was packed with various groups of travellers from all around the world. I struck up a chat with Maria, a fellow single traveller from London, as we set sail. We were both captivated to Corfu's breath-taking beauty and the prospect of an exciting day.
Maria and I discovered a shared interest for Greek mythology, a fondness for local cuisine, and a mutual curiosity about the world as the boat floated through the crystal-clear waters. We bonded easily as we shared stories from our individual adventures, constructing a tapestry of cultural experiences and personal anecdotes.
I didn't expect to encounter another lone traveller, especially one from London, before embarking on my journey. I had planned to keep to myself because there are risks to going alone, and I couldn't truly trust anyone but myself. It was nice to have a trip companion for a few days.
I would recommend that everyone has at least one solo trip in their lifetime as it’s a lovely experience and the trip promises not only exploration but also a celebration of individuality in the midst of this Mediterranean haven's ageless beauty.