Traveler: Bahar Akyıldız – Businesswoman
What is your most unforgettable escape? Patmos, Greece.
What was the purpose of your travel? To celebrate a close friend’s birthday. The trip was organized very spontaneously.
With how many people did you travel? We were a group of 4.
What did you most like about the trip? Thanks to being relatively hard to access, Patmos is definitely unspoilt and has an old fashioned, retro feel. No huge hotel developments, cliché tourist entertainments or high-end fashion houses. Yet the spiritual aura, simplicity, isolated beaches, cool and sophisticated frequents make the island very unique and addictive.
Could you share an unforgettable memory about the trip? After getting friendly with a couple of other Patmos lovers, we were invited for an aperitivo at their Chora villa terrace. The mystic view of Patmos under the stars, lovely group of multinational guests and the aspiritional deco of the villa turned the night into an exceptional experience.
Your most surprising find during the trip? Patmos is a very pet friendly island. Everyone at Patmos seems to have little puppies. And a huge population of stray cats.
Favorite restaurant(s) or food you have tried during your trip?
“Benetos” for an amazing atmosphere, contemporary Greek cuisine and a perfect cocktail bar.
“Pantheon” aka “The Octopus place”- standout local dishes!
“Astoivi 1673” – International menu with impressive displays. See and be seen type of place. Turns into a very happening bar after dinner.
For lunch, all the small and unpretentious restaurants at the beaches are just perfect. The tavern at Lyvadi Geranaou Beach has a heavenly view of the bay and delicious seafood.
What are the must tries of the city?
Chora – A World Heritage Site – is the perfect place for accommodation.
Since the island is a very sacred spot for Christianity, a visit to the monastery and its museum is an absolute must.
Psili Ammos is Patmos’s most beautiful sandy beach, but it is quite difficult to reach. Other noteworthy beaches are; Kampos, Lyvadi Geranou, Lampi, Didymes and Agriolyvadi.
Chora’s main square, surrounded by small taverns and bars is the focal point at nights. Thalami Bar is a little gem with enjoyable crowd and great cocktails. Pougki and Stoa are other bar options at Chora.
Consider Consolato and Koukoumavla for drinks & fun in Skala region.
Any hidden gems you could whisper to us? Every narrow alley at Chora is enigmatic and literally a travel back in time.
Would you go back? Currently making plans of renting a long term house for next summer.
Could you list a few of your favorite finds you came back with?
Kapopoulos Fine Arts is an exciting spot for contemporary art in Chora.
Andreas Kalatzis’ Gallery- ask for the artist’s instant handmade business card/illustration.
Thanos Creative Jewelry Store – This is the shop if you are looking for a unique gift from Patmos.
Any tips that might be useful to know before going there? You don’t have to make any plans prior or rush for anything. Patmos is small & slow. Just be in the moment. But make sure to jump on a scooter and discover the different parts of the island.
Next stop you would like to visit? Stockholm.
What does traveling mean to you? You’ll never know until you go.
Bahar Akyıldız
Businesswoman
