Sunset at Oia

The town of Oia (pronounced “ee ah”) is at the Northern tip of the island of Santorini. Yesterday we took a bus to the capital city Thira and then on to Oia to catch one of their legendary sunsets. Winding up, down, and through the narrow stone walkways in this little city perched precariously on the hillside, we explored like excited little kids. This is where all the famous blue domed churches live that adorn nearly every postcard of Santorini, and I think its fair to say it’s beauty and charm is not at all exaggerated.

From an amazing vista point we noticed the cutest flower adorned restaurant clutching the cliffside and went to inquire about dinner reservations. With less than two hours before sunset we scored the last table on the balcony, and in our thrill and glee didn’t think of the cost for once. But this was only because we rationalized this as a once-in-a-lifetime dinner funded by my generous Dad who had given Ron (because apparently I’m the stingy one!) some money to ensure we didn’t have too threadbare an existence on the road. All I can say is this was a wonderfully extravagant experience,…THANKS DAD and Happy Father's Day, from both of us!

We started with fried olives stuffed with feta and a nice bottle of white wine made in none other than Santorini itself. Then I had a plate of grilled shrimp and Ron had a pork chop with the best buttery and bacony potato. It wasn’t exactly traditional greek but oh my was it delicious and miles above anything we’ve eaten on this trip. It better be for the euro we paid!

But the real draw of this restaurant was being so near the sun sinking into the ocean below. It was so romantic. To prove the point, we shared it with at least three newlywed couples in their wedding garb taking pictures in front of the view, veils blowing towards the sea.

Now, I wish I could say it was the best sunset I’ve seen, but there was this one amazing sunset we caught in Big Sur at Nepenthe that was blood orange marmalade dripping slowly into the horizon and just so jaw dropping that it may never ever be topped. Nonetheless we were happy, satiated, and just a little blessed to be where we were and to see what we saw. Then we ran hurriedly and out of breath to the catch the last bus back to Perivolos Beach.