Athens also somehow felt familiar. Walking through Koukaki, Plaka, and Monastiraki, or exploring the vibrant culinary scene, I kept thinking of my dear Mexico City.

Kolonaki even reminded me of Polanco. For me, it is the energy, the blend of high and low, the palpable creative boom. And an art de vivre that values human connection and an unhurried pace. Think long sobremesas and never once being rushed to leave your table.

Then came Paros and Antiparos...

The Caribbean girl in me wants to say that nothing compares to home, yet the Cycladic islands come dangerously close to perfection. Moving here was mentioned more than once during the trip.

We embraced island mode and dedicated ourselves to beach hopping. Of course, one can always name favorites (I’ll get to those at the end), but the clarity of the water makes it irresistible everywhere. Under the sun, each ripple reflects a new shade of turquoise or green, and nothing beats ending a swim with a meal at a waterfront taverna.

Driving around the islands brings its own magic. Every turn seems to take your breath away: the endless play of blue between sky and sea, neighboring islands glowing at sunset, whitewashed villages framed by bougainvillea that prove the power of a minimal color palette.

The landscape shifts between terraces and wild rolling hills, punctuated by striking rock formations. Humble churches scattered across the land remind you of the spirituality woven into daily life.

Of course, I had the best insider tips to guide me. And while I cannot wait to return, here are a few highlights worth sharing:

ATHENS

I will spare you the obvious stops, though I highly recommend visiting the Acropolis Museum before the site itself. It provides essential context and transforms the experience. Also make time for the Varvakios Central Market and its surrounding streets, the heart of the city at its most vibrant.

For seriously good food: IS and SIA was a highlight. Simple yet refined flavors anchored in high quality ingredients. Every dish felt like a treat.
For wine, food, and mood: Wine Is Fine lives up to its name. Excellent wines in an unpretentious, effortlessly cool setting.

For a cult favorite: Diporto, a tiny underground spot near the market. It is as much about the atmosphere as the traditional food.
For a bakery stop: Takis Bakery in Koukaki, with some of the best baklava.

PAROS

For beach: There are so many, each with its own charm, and I cannot claim to have explored them all. The ones that stayed with me are Kalogiros, Kolymbithres, and Mikri Santa.

For dining: We favored the tavernas with their simple, delicious food and authentic charm. Moypatio in Alyki and Taverna Julia became favorites. And the crayfish orzo at Sigi Ikthios in Naoussa is worth the detour on its own.

ANTIPAROS

For dining: One of our best meals during the trip was at Captain Pipinos. Fresh, unfussy, and right by the sea.

The side beach is also very pretty. Does it get better than this?

For sunsets: Sunset watching is essential to island life, and the SUNSET bar (repetition forgiven) offers one of the most privileged views.

In case you’re wondering, “and what about the jewelry?”

I made sure to pack our Lapis Lazuli necklace as a nod to the Greek blues. The Clé N.5, with its black pearl, emeralds, and turquoise, also felt just right for the elevated beach vibe. And of course my everyday rings: La Ligne and Entrelacs.

That’s all for now. Until next time,

Jessie