Fun facts about Greece and Santorini 

• Santorini's official name is actually Thira.
• The island sits in the water-filled caldera of a massive volcano that is thought to have ended Minoan civilization on Crete.
• Before it was called Santorini, the island was known as Kallístē, meaning “the most beautiful one.”
• Due to its volcanic past, Santorini has white, black, AND red beaches.
• Despite a harsh, dry climate, Santorini has a flourishing wine industry.
• There is so little rain on the island of Santorini, that wine in more plentiful than water.
• There are more donkeys than men.
• Until 1960, there was no electricity, only donkeys and fishermen

              Customs and Etiquette in Greece – Day to Day and Dining

• Don’t show the palm of your hand if possible – it is the same as gesturing with your middle finger in the U.S.
• Don’t be in a hurry – take everything in ‘Greek Time’ slow and laid back

• Join in Greek dancing whenever you can – It is so much fun to do – just don’t forget it goes kick with your left foot then your right foot, step back, and then to the side and repeat.
• Don’t forget the sunblock! – It can be expensive if you buy it on the island
• Do accept an invitation for a lunch or dinner at a Greek individual’s home – Greeks are very hospitable to foreign visitors just don’t forget to bring a gift to show gratitude for the invitation
• Wine is generally drunk at lunch or dinner – but the more you drink the more you are offered to drink.
• Bread is usually served with butter, but no bread plate is usually offered
• In informal restaurants, you may be required to share a table
• For tipping – a 10 % tip is usually enough for restaurants, but a 10% tip is already included in your bill.
• Salads are an accompaniment in Greece, they are never eaten as a main course
• A diner will be expected to make conversation and be social, this is part of the meal
• Plates are not smashed, so don’t try it (a modern custom resulting from the film Never on Sunday)

Cultural History

In the crystal blue waters of the Mediterranean lies the island of Santorini. Known as the Black Pearl of the Aegean Sea, this Grecian island is home to the iconic whitewash buildings with blue roofed churches nestled along the northern side of the island’s cliffs. This island is an archipelago and the cities sit atop what is known as the caldera. A caldera is essentially a giant crater created by a volcanic eruption of some kind that shifts the surrounding land. With the combination of natural beauty and history, Santorini is the most breathtaking island in Greece.
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The peak times to travel to Santorini are from April to early October. If you want the busy lively environment the island is known for, then June to August is ideal. If you are searching for those quieter moments, but still want some liveliness, then either April to June or September to early October are best. Since Santorini is so popular to visit, what is there to do on the volcanic island?

• Take a walk along the volcano of Nea Kameni
• Enjoy the spas in cities like Oia and Fira.
• Visit the many beaches and the uniquely designed infinity pools at the hotels.
• Watch the sunset into the Aegean is an experience that most travelers remember
• Let’s not forget the Santorini Brewing Company - This is where most all the local wine is produced on the island.

Whatever you want in a Greek vacation, Santorini is likely to accommodate for even the most strategic traveler. Discover something to love this summer full of crystal blue waters, wineries for miles, and sunsets meant to take your breath away. 

Food and Dining

What many travelers and individuals with a Greek background will tell you is it is delicious as it is plentiful. Greek custom implies you will eat until you are full and then eat some more. So, what does this mean for the visiting traveler. It means you are never out of luck if you’re in search of good food and good company. At restaurants it is best to keep in mind to order right away and ask for the bill right away. Don’t say you’ll wait because you will indeed wait a long time for your meal as a result. There are many delicious foods to try in Santorini and some are mouth watering to even think about.

• Fava me Koukia (mashed up fava beans)
• Saganaki (fried cheese in filo pastry covered in honey)
• Greek Salad
• Keftes/Kofta – ground meat – sorta like sausages
• Don’t forget the wine! – seen as a pre, post, and during meal must in Greece especially Santorini – if not wine then the beer is also great and full of flavor
•  Pomegranates – Sweet and juicy from being in the Greek sunshine, this is a nice middle of the day snack to have
• Moussaka
• Spanakopita – spinach pie
• Souvlaki and gyros
• Baklava – any of the dessert kind is the best as a sweet treat.