Famous news website Huffington Post has published an article that makes every Greek fill with pride. The journalist, likening the Cyclades to paradise, refers to the 13 reasons that make the Greek archipelago an earthly Eden. The article begins as follows: “Paradise isn’t on some far-flung, pricey South Pacific island; actually, it’s in Europe. Greece, to be precise. The Cyclades islands have an amazing mix of culture, history, and cuisine, and a natural beauty to rival any of the world’s exotic island getaways. Using the tips and photos of the minube travel community, we’ve found out exactly why these sunny islands are so popular. From unique wines to kaleidoscopic beaches, here are 13 reasons why the Cyclades are basically paradise”.

1) Hotels are magnificent
Even if you’re a backpacker, the hotels in the Cyclades will make you feel like part of the jet-set. Specific reference is made to the pools and amazing views offered by most hotels.

2) The beaches come in reds…
Specifically, the article refers to the Red Beach in Santorini and praised its unique morphology.

3)…and whites…
Anyone who has visited Milos and Sarakiniko in particular can easily see why The Huffington Post makes specific reference to this unique beach, resembling a lunar landscape. “The sun-bleached white limestone that has been sculpted by the wind” makes visitors feel like they are on the moon, according to the columnist.

4) …and of cource amazing blues.
The Cyclades don’t have many long, sandy beaches like the Caribbean. The best ones are found in small, hidden coves. The photo above is from Naxos.

5) The churches are all beautiful
The columnist thinks that the simple beauty and charm of Greek churches is enough to make “a person melt”.

6) Fresh seafood everywhere!

Greece is known for its simple, healthy cuisine, notes the article, making special reference to fresh fish served with lemon and olive oil. The restaurant mentioned is Medusa in Mandraki, Naxos “which makes quite possibly the world’s best grilled octopus”.

7). Delicious wine…

The wine of Santorini is unique. Be sure to try the island’s VinSanto, the columnist suggests.

8) Breathtaking views… everywhere
The Cyclades are essentially mountain peaks jutting out of the sea. As a result, you get amazing views from just about everywhere! The photo of Oia, Santorini is featured in the 8th place of the list.

9) Ancient ruins
Specific reference is made to the impressive monuments in Delos and Naxos.

10) Serene villages
A top mistake among travelers in Cyclades, according to the website, is choosing crowded places to stay, missing out on the tranquility and beauty offered by the small, serene villages of the islands

11) Even the shipwrecks are beautiful here…
In the Cyclades, even something as devastating as a shipwreck can turn into a beautiful addition to the landscape. The photo of the shipwreck of Milos proves the columnist’s point.

12) We say “No” to cars!
There may be some cars on the islands, but you usually see mopeds, bicycles and even donkeys. The best way to get around a Cyclades island is by a scooter.

13) There are over 200 islands to explore
The Cyclades are a group of 220 islands, of which most are uninhabited. Explore them by boat to experience the ultimate beauty.