Aylesford International

Greece

Greece invented democracy and drama before the rest of us could read and write; it's still ahead of the curve when it comes to beautiful beaches, ancient culture and laid-back, friendly living.

The island of Corfu is situated in the Ionian Sea. It is one of best places to experience Greek culture. The island is just 40 miles long.

In the early 19th Century the beautiful Corfu Town briefly came under French control and then under British control, eventually in the mid-19th Century, the island was united with Greece. The town was renamed Kerkyra after the ancient Greek town a mile or so to the south. Byzantine, Venetian, Neapolitan, French and British architecture can be seen standing side by side throughout this attractive city.

Corfu boasts many beautiful beaches set in secluded bays, with magnificent views out over the sparkling blue ocean. The best holiday properties are clustered in the North East of the island away from the more commercial resorts to the south. The economy relies on its olives, fishing and tourism. The welcoming locals still use ancient farming techniques when it comes to collecting the vast quantity of the island's olives.

Links to the UK are excellent, with Corfu International Airport offering daily flights to many British airports.

Corfu was immortalised in Gerald Durrell's account of growing up on the island in the fifties, in his inspirational book 'My Family and Other Animals'.

Ithaca, often included in day trips from other Ionian islands, is a wonderful destination in its own right. Small and unspoiled, with only 5,000 permanent inhabitants, it's easy to fit into laid-back island culture here.

There's plenty to do, too. Sail the clear blue seas, relax on the beach, or hike the mountains inland, before heading to one of the friendly local bars for a glass of Ouzo.

Getting to Ithaca is straightforward. You can take an internal flight from Corfu, Cephalonia or Athens (all of which have international flights to the UK), or take a slower route and come by ferry.

Fast Facts

Did you know? The capital of Ithaca, Vathy, has one of the world's largest natural harbours.

Capital: Athens

Government: Parliamentary Republic

Religion: 98% Greek Orthodox

Population of Ionians: 200k

Language: Greek

Climate: June-Oct 40°C (104°F), temperate and fairly dry for the rest of the year.

Currency: Euro (€)

Healthcare: There are many public and private hospitals and medical centres in Greece, all of varying standards. Doctors and facilities are generally good on the mainland, but may be limited on the islands.  

Electricity: 220 V 50 Hz

Time zone: GMT + 2 hours

Dialling code: +30

Airports: International airports in the region include Cephalonia and Corfu.

Getting around: Island hopping takes place on numerous ferries, seaplanes or even helicopters. Public transport is generally good too.

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