Anecdotes from Antiparos — RYAN KNOWLES BEST

It’s funny, I’ve never been much of a name dropper. I’ve got clients who are billionaires, friends who are celebrities and I even dated a royal once (fine, it only lasted a weekend but that still counts in my book!). Call me old fashioned though, I’ve just never felt comfortable using someone else’s name to boost my own cachet.

That all changed when I visited Antiparos, a low key, laid-back island (population: 1,211) situated in the middle of the Cyclades in Greece, about an hour away from Mykonos, its glitzier and more well known cousin.

You see, in Antiparos, there are no street signs, or navigational tools, or any directional help to speak of at all. The taxi drivers don’t speak much English and the only two words in that seem to resonate with them are “port” - which is the main area of the island where the shopping and hotels are, and “beach” - of which there are dozens.

One of the many beautiful beaches on the island.

What does exist, however, is a system whereby name dropping actually helps you. If you are staying across the way from the Niarchos compound or (in my case) in a private villa next to Tom Hanks, it helps to say it: early, often and just about any chance you get, to whomever might listen.

The main terrace of the villa where I stayed.

I learned this lesson in reverse-etiquette the hard way, after getting lost a few times and having to rely on Hanks’ name in order to find my way home. (My friend owns a villa next door to America’s favorite actor, who recently became a Greek citizen). “I’m staying next to Tom Hanks,” I would say, and invariably they would reply in a thick Greek accent with, “OK, I take you, no problem.”

Aerial of the island. The winding roads are no fun, especially at night.

And so, 9,017 kilometres from home, on a tiny Greek island baked in almost oppressive July heat, I began to appreciate the value of name dropping and its efficacy in solving language induced navigational challenges. :-)

Of course, the only navigating most of us are doing right now is from our bedrooms to the kitchen to the living room and back. But when the time comes (summer 2021, anyone?), give this little jewel of an island a serious look before you book your next adventure. If you go, here are a few RKB tips.

Restaurants:

Lunch: Kalokeri

Fresh ingredients, delicious wine, and impeccable service. Located in Chora. 4.5 out of 5.

Dinner: Sapou

Also in Chora. The romance oozes out of this place and the food (and view) is to die for. 5 out of 5.

Shopping:

There’s isn’t a ton of shopping in Antiparos, but what is there is very good. From beautiful embroidery to folk art and famous Cyclades ceramics, there is enough to choose from and shops are open everyday from 9am - 10pm.

Spa:

Art of Touch

Tucked away in the outskirts of Chora is this cozy spa that offers an array of services. You can walk in or make an appointment if you prefer, and they also do house calls. RKB tip: ask for Sophia.

MUST VISIT

The Beach House

Part beach club, part hotel, The Beach House is one of the prettiest spots on the island and the closest Antiparos comes to replicating the vibe of Mykonos. I spent just about every day here enjoying the best food, service and experience money can buy. 5 out of 5.

Books:

Packing a good book is always a must for long haul travel. For my Greek trip, I packed two:

The One Year Daily Moments of Strength: Inspiration for Men

A great resource of daily inspiration and perfect gift for the dad, brother or husband in your life. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and still pick it up every now and then. 4.5 of out 5.