ZAKYNTHOS GUIDE
We had never, ever missed a flight. Been close a few times...got stuck in traffic, got a very stern suggestion from the check-in counter to RUN, not walk, RUN to the gate, and we did, we ran to the gate, making it just in time. These kind of close calls. But the flight we missed wasn't one of those...
It was the kind where you wake up, earlier than normal, roll over towards the clock in a panic to notice that the flight you were supposed to be on is taking off in 10 minutes. 
I had been dreaming of this visit to Zakynthos... famous for Navagio Beach or as you may know it, Shipwreck Beach. I wanted to step over to the cliff's edge and view this spectacular scene--one of the world's most photographed beaches! Missing this flight was a disaster. And also, a serious wrinkle in a series of travel plans--you see we planned for two days on Zakynthos and were flying from there to Athens for two days. (Side note : a perfect long weekend holiday, just enough time in both, if you don't miss your flight, of course ;) ). So our moderately inexpensive one-way ticket to Zakynthos just became increasingly more expensive as we purchased a last minute ticket departing within a few hours! 
All very much worth it...once we landed on the Greek Isle, all our worries were swept away by the bluest of blue oceans and the stunning cliffside views.
WHAT TO SEE :
The famous Shipwreck beach : the view from above is the most amazing! It is seriously more beautiful than the pictures can even portray. But you can also take sailing tours and visit the beach below. Our favorite way to explore the Greek Isles is by quad bike--it's easy to get to these off the beaten path locations!
Porto Limnionas : A hidden treasure... A restaurant on the water surrounded by a cove for swimming and cave exploring!
Cameo Island Bridge : A small island in the south of Zakynthos with a very photogenic bridge connecting--the only thing on the island is a beach bar but you do have to pay a cover to enter!
Makris Gialos Beach : one of the less crowded beaches on the island, it's a perfect place for snorkeling and diving. Also, a great starting point to catch a tour to the Shipwreck Beach.
Blue Caves at Agios Nikolaus : one of the most popular places to visit on the island, hire a boat or hop on a tour from Makris Gialos.
Marathonisi Turtle Island : a quick boat ride from Zakynthos, the turtle island is supposed to be a gorgeous place to explore---and if you're lucky, you can see baby turtles hatching!
Zante Town : most of the old town was destroyed in an earthquake in 1953, but the town was rebuilt in the typical Venetian fashion making it feel quaint and charming..a perfect stop on your island tour!
WHERE TO EAT :
Our favorites : Olive Tree, Taverna Porto Limnionas, The Old Windmill. 
WHERE TO STAY :
We stayed at The Lesante in Tsivili...it was a great location and definitely offered a luxurious stay on the island! Read my review here... The highlights were the large sized rooms and top level concierge service organizing all transfers for us but also having our quad bike delivered to the hotel for a day of exploring! 
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