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Symi

Symi is a small Greek island covering just 30 square miles in the south eastern part of the Aegean, only 23 miles from Rhodes. Here you are still able to sample traditional Greek hospitality and friendliness at its very best while soaking up Symi's unlimited sunshine, contagious atmosphere of pure relaxation and island life. As you approach Symi on the ferry from Rhodes you see the steep rugged cliffs rising up from the sea stark against the blue sky and begin to sense the magic of the island which will stay with you long after your visit is over.

The houses of Symi are usually very old and in many of them you may find rooms with ceilings arched to support the floor above. This is the famous "Byzantine tholos" traditional building of the past centuries.

Later the style of the houses became neo-classical. Many of the houses kept some original characteristics such as: arched ceilings, slit windows (once used for defense against the pirates), old chimneys and fireplaces.

Nestling around the bustling little harbour, one can see the grand houses of the former sponge traders. The Symian houses are perched on the steep slopes either side of the harbour and from their large windows one can admire the panoramic view of the harbour and coastline. A climb up the flights of wide stone steps, known as the "Kali Strata", will take one to the upper town of "Chorio" (Village), which offers a magnificent view of the harbour and bay of Pedi.

The upper and lower towns contain many fine taverns offering a wide range of traditional Greek dishes, dishes such as souvlaki, moussaka, dolmades and fresh fish. In addition to that, there are numerous bars which serve a wide variety of traditional and European drinks.

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