If you are looking for the perfect gift or something for yourself in Naxos be sure to visit The Pocket Gallery by Tim Elkington in the old town. He has beautiful homewares and artworks made in Greece, jewellery, childrens’ and ladies wear and more.
Gaitanaki
A childs’ paradise! Welcome to Gaitanaki! A little hidden gem in the the narrow streets of the town, close to the court square in Naxos. Overflowing with childhood memories of yesteryear and those of the years to come. Be sure to seek it out.
@GaitanakiNaxos
Palia Agora luxury studio
A modern apartment perfectly located near the port in the old town Naxos. Meet friendly hosts to ensure that your stay in Naxosis as comfortable and easy as possible. Right in the heart of the the action with all the modern conveniences and cycladic charm.
The original sin
Lampadifories
For 25 years there has been a slowly growing tradition on the Saturday night the last weekend before the start of lent. It started spontaneously when a company, the Naxos Film Club, danced in the steps of the primordial Bacchus, spirit of Dionysos. Dionysos is the god of winemaking and wine, of fertility, ritual madness, religious ecstasy, and theatre in ancient Greek religion and myth. Now the tradition has taken on a life of it’s own. For a few hours the streets of Chora are filled with uniform chanting, the soothing beat of drums, fire lights the way and light, smoke and colour fill the atmosphere. Starting at the top of the castle hoards paint their faces white and black, don white sheets, tie belts of straw around their waists and light torches. They celebrate, laugh and party until the wee hours. This year thousands poured to the streets to be part of the celebrations.
Scirocco
Scirocco Restaurant is a favourite hang out for locals and visitors. It’s Aegean Cuisine awarded menu is guaranteed to give you some insight as to why the mediterrean diet is so popular. Be sure to pass by for local hospitality and food.
The simple things in life are often the best!
One (of many) thing I have learned here which has changed my entire philosophy around cooking is that the saying the simple things in life are often the best should never be disregarded. When the ingredients are seasonal and fresh with a little love and care the results can be so much more than just a plate of food to fill hungry tummies after a day at school. Something as basic as lentil soup quickly becomes a family favourite that the kids never tire of asking for. The above with lentils, our extra virgin olive oil and a jar of my homemade tomato paste carefully stored away in the summer months and you have a warming bowl of love and nutrients.
Fakes
1 packet 500g organic lentils 1-2 onions 5 cloves garlic 2-3 carrots 400g tomato conserve 2-3 bayleaves salt pepper water 1/2-1 cup extra virgin olive oil
Dice all vegetables saute in a large saucepan until fragrant, add other ingredients. Simmer for 30-40mins stirring occasionally. Serve with vinegar
Little Mix Naxos
Something a little different opened in Naxos this week. The Little Mix Naxos with yummy snacks, coffee, specialty teas and hot chocolates and local conserves and drinks. @littlemixnaxos Little Mix
Marsaxlokk
My Dad’s Marsaxlokk derives its name from the Arabic word marsa, meaning harbour, and Maltese for the south-easterly Mediterranean wind, the Xlokk (Scirocco in Italian). village has certainly changed a lot since the last time I was there but there were still a few familiar things around, in addition to my relatives, to give it that fishing village vibe. I would suggest going on any day other than Sunday until they sort out the situation with the markets, it has grown out of control but there is a plan in place to change that. If you do go be sure to visit the recently renovated Duncan Bar and Guest House
Malta
A recent trip to Malta reminded me of just how enchanting this little country is. Plenty to see and do for even the most seasoned traveller and some hidden gems for the foodies too.