Chios, Greece

In the morning I took the short ferry from Cesme to Chios town on the island of Chios, Greece. I got a room in town so I would have a home base for the night and figure out my next move. The room was expensive for my budget, but very nice and in a central location.

After securing the room, I went on a trek locally to try and figure out the local transportation. The bad news was it seems the island’s public transportation system is not so easy to use or tourist friendly. The good news was that cars could be rented for about $20 per day. Now that I was mobile I was ready to make a plan. It was too expensive to stay in the main town, so I chose a small, private pension in a beach town to the south.

Megás Limniónas

It was somewhat difficult to find Platsa Studios, located on the small private road. Once I did find it I was greeted by the welcoming and friendly owner. She offered me a special deal if I stayed for 4 days, since the regular tourist season was over. The accommodations were simple, but the seaside location and ocean view were worth more than interior decor.

A short distance away was a small cove with a quiet beach and a few beach front restaurants. One of these became my morning coffee stop where I would plan my day. I got to know the friendly waiter who started providing small bites or drinks on the house.

Pyrgi & Mesta

One of the first excursions in my little, red car was to the old villages of Pyrgi and Mesta. They became industrial centers in the medieval ages due to the production of mastic. Much of the stone structures remain, although their habitants have dwindled.

Other Island Adventures

There is no shortage of beaches to visit or historical sites to see on Chios. I spent my days visiting different parts of the island, swimming, and soaking up the local culture.