"There rose up
Large and lofty trees
Pear trees and pomegranates
The brilliant golden apples
And green olives
And winter or summer fruit never failed these trees."
Homer, The Odyssey, Book Seven
Corfu has a rich mythology and history, lofty examples of its art and culture. Each feature of its natural beauty is closely related to the legends and historical events that occurred there. It has received the praises of Homer and Xenophon as well as those of Casanova and Bondelmonti, not to mention contemporary artists from all over the world. They have fallen in love with Corfu and recorded its unique beauty and breathtaking scenery in works that have a special place in world literature and art. The island of Corfu was a bone of contention between the British, the French and the Italians who all passed through and left their mark. The history of the island is like a painting in itself where each culture left its own special "stroke" of colour, yet the one overriding fact is the vibrant spirit of the Ionian Islands.
Back in 1984, Alkis and I had lived and worked in Corfu for six months before we decided to settle down in Cyprus. Thirty-one years later, we thought it was time we planned a holiday on the island of the Phaeacians. Easter seemed to be the perfect timing since Easter in Corfu is said to be a very special and unique experience and a pole of attraction for many travellers from all over the world.
DAY 1 – Thursday, April 9, 2015
I got up early in the morning, feeling excited and looking forward to our Easter holiday in Corfu. I finished packing while Alkis was at work, had a light lunch and a nap in the early afternoon and then got ready for our trip to Corfu. Despite my fear of flying, I truly enjoyed our flight with Aegean Airlines which took off on time at 5:00 pm and landed us safely at Ioannis Kapodistrias Airport about two hours later. We got through customs in no time, and then a taxi drove us to our hotel in the area of Dassia – Corfu Palma Boutique Hotel. The General Manager warmly welcomed us in person and offered us a welcome drink while the efficient staff at the reception took care of check-in. We were shown to a beautifully decorated room on the third floor which we fell in love with at first sight. As we were on half-board basis, we spent our first night at the hotel and enjoyed a delicious dinner and a bottle of Strofilia, laughing away the hours and talking about all the great things we'd do in Corfu.
DAY 2 – Friday, April 10, 2015
The breakfast buffet at Corfu Palma Boutique Hotel was simply impressive and so very tempting! I was unable to resist the hot croissants and Greek pies or the variety of jams and cheeses and three cups of green tea. Soon after breakfast, we took the bus to Corfu town and strolled around the city, had coffee at Liston, a glass of ouzo and meze at Kanoni contemplating the breathtaking view to Pontikonisi. Then we took the bus back to Corfu town and enjoyed a traditional Corfiot lunch at Elia Restaurant.
Just before dinner, we enjoyed a relaxing afternoon at the hotel. We were very lucky to have great weather. Even in late afternoon we could sit outside.
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