10 Reasons Why I’d Live in Santorini

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People ask me where I’ve enjoyed visiting the most, but I always have a tough time answering. The thing about the world is, it’s a big place and each destination is unique; you know, apples and oranges. Now, if the question is, “Where would you consider moving?” that narrows my options a bit.  I’d be stocking up on humble homes around the globe if money was no object: a tiny chalet in the Swiss Alps, beach bungalow in Thailand, studio flat in London, lakeside charmer in Lake Como… you get the idea. Of my dream locations, Santorini has secured a spot on my small, but thoughtfully cultivated list. It’s got a lot going for it, and here are 10 reasons why I could see myself living there:

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  1. The view. Have you seen photos of Santorini? I won’t bother you with 10,000 adjectives about its beauty, but I can assure you it’s gorgeous from every angle.
  2. Space. While the towns are established and compact, between them you’ll find very little. Having heard Santorini is a big tourist destination, it surprised me to find how rural it was. There’s much more to the island than smooth, white buildings and blue fences; space, and lots of it.

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  1. The great outdoors. I like think of myself as a city girl. But now and again, I get away and realize how much I love the peace and beauty of the contrary. Sweeping seascapes, craggy, cliffside trails, and white, puffy clouds across the sky: these are things that make my soul happy.
  2. The people. Everyone was very friendly, even if there was a bit of a language barrier with some of the older locals. A wave and a smile speak volumes.

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  1. Desserts with honey. It’s a wonder what can be done with filo, honey, cinnamon, and nuts. Baklava, kataifi, loukoumades — you name it, I love it.
  2. Gyros. These filling and delicious pita sandwiches made with fresh ingredients only set us back 2€ a pop. In the words of craft-mogul Martha, “It’s a good thing.”

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  1. Sunsets. Some of the most vibrant, brilliant sunsets I’ve ever seen have been here and Oia is the ultimate place to take it in.
  2. A steady breeze. Nothing can suck the life out of a person quite like stale heat. I love the sunshine, but that breeze made sure we had comfortable afternoon walks and could enjoy sitting outside without melting to plastic, bistro chairs.

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  1. Real estate. While I’m no expert on Greek real estate, I know enough to realize that properties are for sale and that the economic climate in Greece is favorable for buyers. There were a number of properties with jaw-dropping ocean views, in serious disrepair, and in need of a good renovation (so… cheap-ish?). I like a good deal and I’m cool with getting dirty.
  2. Proximity to mainland Europe. We like to travel. There, I said it. 🙂 With an airport on the island, reasonably priced airfare, and hundreds of destinations within a few hours’ flight, that makes for pleasant journeys.

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  1. Bonus: It’s on the sea. I grew up in a coastal town in Florida and have always loved the ocean. Being on a large body of water is comforting and makes me feel at home.

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