Latest news with #Aegean
Telegraph
13 hours ago
- General
- Telegraph
The unsung Greek island that's become a memorial to Gallipoli
Swallows swooped like fighter jets above fields bright with poppies and cornflowers close to the village of Moudros, on the Aegean island of Lemnos. Listening to the crickets chirruping in the long grass, it was hard to believe that 110 years ago this spot was a major military base for the disastrous Gallipoli campaign, when the Allied powers made their ill-judged bid to weaken the Ottoman Empire by taking control of the Turkish straits. As we drove along roads fringed with wild fennel on our way to Portianos cemetery, local guide Sofia pointed out army bases concealed in the surrounding hillsides. She told me that there were more than 40 on the island. 'Lemnos is still a strategic site – Turkey regularly threatens to invade,' she told me, as we pulled up outside the high iron gates of one of the two cemeteries where Gallipoli victims are buried. Apart from a couple of hooded crows strutting over the clipped grass, the cemetery was empty, and the tombstones shimmered in the midday heat. Of the 347 Commonwealth soldiers buried at Portianos, 263 are British. 'In the other cemetery – East Mudros – there are 672 British soldiers buried,' she said, as we paid our respects at the grave of Private Alfred Ernest Smith of the Lancashire Fusiliers, who died aged 18. 'Many of them lied about their age to get here, because there was so much propaganda. They were told that there was no danger – that as soon as the Turks saw British troops they would give themselves up without a fight.' Deception and poor planning were to be the hallmarks of a botched campaign spearheaded by Winston Churchill, then First Lord of the Admiralty, which lasted eight months from April 25 1915 and resulted in 250,000 casualties. 'They thought Turkey was the sick man of Europe, but in reality the Ottomans were numerous and well organised,' said Sofia, explaining the Allied failures. 'Many of their maps were outdated, and delays meant when they finally did land on the Gallipoli peninsula they knew they were coming and picked them off like sitting ducks.' Back near Moudros, the trill of larks – like the ones 'still bravely singing' in John McCrae's poem – serenaded us as we examined the rusted skeleton of a water tower, all that remained of the three hospitals that once stood here. 'They were just tents really and not equipped for dealing with thousands of casualties,' Sofia said, as we stared out over the bay where boats packed with the dead and dying arrived over a century ago. Lemnos is rarely on tourist radars, so we set out to see some of the island's other sights. In the west we drove towards a line of low mountains topped by the crumbled ruins of windmills, once used to make flour from the wheat that's still grown in the island's fertile eastern plains. 'Lemnos has always been prosperous. It was the granary for the Delian League. Our 4,000-year-old Poliochne archaeological site is Europe's oldest organised settlement,' Sofia said, with a hint of pride. Near the island's extinct volcano she showed me the shallow cave where Limnia Gi, the island's miracle mud mentioned by Homer and said to cure everything from gout to dysentery, was mined until 1919. Then we followed the coast road to Myrina. Topped by the turrets and stocky stone walls of its immense medieval castle, the island's capital seemed tiny, until we followed vine-shaded alleys leading away from the port and discovered a lively centre lined with designer boutiques, hip bars and cool cafes. It reminded me of the Chora of Mykonos, only without the crowds and extortionate prices. After lunch I met Eleftheria from local company Lemnos Wine Trails, who told me that Greeks mostly come to this remote island for its food. During a two-hour tour we ate crispy dakos rusks and learned how to make feather-tender flomari pasta at the Porazis family's 106-year-old bakery. At gastro bakery Xrysafis we snacked on traditional treats – katimeria honey pastries, glazed almond venezelika sweets, and creamy feta-like kalathaki – before ending our gourmet jaunt at the Garalis winery. Here, the family's teenage children showed us the buried amphorae in which they make their award-winning Terra Ambera wine. 'Unlike many Greek islands, young people don't want to leave Lemnos. They are taking over their parent's businesses or creating their own. This is a living island with 33 villages. We have restaurants and tavernas all over the island and most of them stay open in winter,' Eleftheria told me. Sipping a honeyed glass of Terra Ambera on my terrace that evening as the sun slipped behind the horizon and the waves kissed the sands of Platis beach, I was startled to see a young deer silhouetted in the sun's dying light. As it vanished into the gathering dusk, I found myself thinking again of the innocent soldiers whose lives were extinguished in a 'corner of a foreign field' so many years before. How to do it
What's On
2 days ago
- What's On
No summer travel plans? These are the best spots to escape UAE, within UAE
For many in the UAE, summer is a time of transit. Residents look to escape the extreme heat, take advantage of the slowing season and lock in some downtime. This is a chance to explore the world, travel to places never-before-seen and ride out the weather, and if you're looking for inspiration, you can check out our travel guides here, here and here. But for everyone out there who has no plans to witness the inside of the airport this season, fret not, for we have something for you as well. This list of UAE escapes will make you feel like you went on a whole holiday, without ever getting on a plane. Anantara Santorini, Abu Dhabi It's in the name. Anantara Santorini is perched on the edge of the Arabian Gulf's pristine blue waters, and will take you away to Grecian lanes drenched in white, blue and stone. It's a stunning crossover between raw Aegean beauty and refined Emirati elegance, and is truly an escape – a secluded spot ideally situated halfway between Abu Dhabi and Dubai in Ghantoot. This adults-only beachfront address features just 22 sumptuous rooms and suites, sun-drenched terraces, and each coming with their own 24/7 butler. Getting there: You can drive straight to Ghantoot in about an hour and a half @anantarasantorini Kingfisher Retreat, Sharjah Consider this your beachfront safari retreat nestled in the arms of nature. The Kingfisher Retreat by the Sharjah Collection is no less than a sanctuary, located among the mangroves opening into the stunning waters of the Indian Ocean. The site has a conservation hub that shelters exotic birds, gazelles, turtles, and crabs. It's smack dab in the midst of some of the UAE's most exotic wildlife and a great break from the typical desert staycations that are so popular here. Opulent tents with private pools and bespoke dining – it's as luxurious as it gets. Getting there: You can drive to the resort's pick-up point in Kalba, from where a short private boat ride will bring you to the island. @kingfisherretreat Al Zorah Natural Reserve This lesser-known ecosystem in Ajman is made up of a tidal creek and a lush mangrove forest home to a rich variety of birdlife. Natural greenery is not much of a common sight in the UAE, but you'll find that here. Mangroves are an important element of the coastline in this part of the world and you can spot nearly 60 species of birds, including the Greater Flamingo and a number of egrets and herons. If serene waters aren't quite enough for you, and some adrenaline is the fix, you can also participate in water sports like windsurfing and kayaking. Getting there: The drive to the reserve takes about an hour. @ajman Jubail Mangrove Park, Abu Dhabi Mangorves are lush and a-plenty, being a unique brand of UAE escapes, and this spot will take you away from the sand and the skyscrapers into lush greenery and blue waters. The stunning Jubail Mangrove Park in Abu Dhabi is an absolute must-visit for nature-seekers. A huge boardwalk will take visitors on a nature trail through the natural landscape of mangroves near Yas Island and, take it from us, it's amazing. As well as the stunning nature walk, there's loads of activities for the whole family to get involved in such as guided boardwalk tours, kayak trips, and e-canoe tours of the mangroves. Getting there: The drive will take you about an hour. Al Wathba Salt Lakes, Abu Dhabi This awe-inspiring locale, which was once a salt flat, has been developed into lakes that are now home to many of Abu Dhabi's natural species, most famously the 4,000-odd flamingoes, over 250 species of birds and 37 plant varieties that have travellers and families driving down from far and wide to photograph these relics of a bygone world. The Al Wathba Lakes are designated for protection by law, and also include self-guided walking trails for you to explore. They're a unique formation of nature, and not seen anywhere else in the country, which is why the visit is worth it. Anantara World Islands This Anantara property brings a slice of the Maldives. Be whisked away on a 15-minute boat ride to an inspiring escape that pays homage to Anantara's Thai roots. This 70-villa resort has a barefoot luxury feel with curated experiences all happening on island whole island oozes tropical allure: swaying palm trees surround the lagoon-sized swimming pool, a growing garden spills down to the sugar-white sandy beach, and thatched roof villas all make the most of their outdoor areas, many of which have a private pool. Getting there: Drive to the resort's welcome centre in J4 Marina, Umm Suqeim and then take a private 15-minute boat ride. @anantaraworldislandsdubai Anantara Sir Bani Yas, Abu Dhabi Head over to Sir Bani Yas Island and for one of the few UAE escapes to Africa. There's three Anantara resorts to choose from on the island, but luxurious beach escapes can be found at Anantara Al Yamm resort, a 30-villa sanctuary designed like a sleeping village. For a touch of African safari life, the recently reimagined Al Sahel resort with its pool villas overlooking local wildlife offers a unique staycation experience. The wildlife drive is a must for an out-of-Africa experience of spotting cheetah, giraffes, ostriches, Arabian Oryx and the rest of the 14,000 animals as part of the island's nature reserve. Getting there: It's a 25-minute boat ride from Jebel Dhanna, which itself is a 3-hour drive from Dubai. @anantarasirbaniyas Casa Mikoko, Umm Al Quwain Another one of African-inspired UAE escapes, this one brings a touch of Zanzibar. Part of the rustic, Zanzibar-inspired Kite Beach Centre is Casa Mikoko, a glamping experience of five chalets nestled within the Umm Al Quwain mangroves. Three of the five come with their own plunge pools, serving as a delightful spot to start the day. And all boast an African-inspired aesthetic and views over the calm waters that gives staycationers a tropical and instant on-holiday feel. Book one of the chalets with private pools and live like you're staying in the Maldives with an Instagrammable floating breakfast. Getting there: The drive to the resort takes about an hour and 10 minutes. @ Images: Socials
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Yahoo
Inside a Luxe New Resort and Spa That Just Opened on the Greek Island of Crete
A luxe new resort just splashed down in the Aegean Sea—and it has nature on the mind. JW Marriott, the luxury arm of Marriot Bonvoy's hospitality empire, has just opened its first property in Greece. The new (and aptly named) JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa is focused on allowing its guests to connect with its stunning Mediterranean environs—and it's fairly easy to do just that, since the property sits on over 100 acres of coastline with ever-present views of the sea. More from Robb Report $12.4 Million Home Perched Above the Ocean Hits the Market in Martha's Vineyard This $7 Million L.A. Home by Famed Architect Paul R. Williams Comes With a Speakeasy Russell's Reserve Has Brought Back Its Fan-Favorite 13-Year-Old Bourbon-and It's the Strongest One Yet Athens-based design studio Block 722 tapped into that environment to bring the new resort, which is perched in Marathi (near the charming, popular town of Chania), to life. The team paired modern design elements with more nature-focused touches, such as planted roofs, olive and carob tree groves, and an abundance of wood and marble, allowing you to blend right in with your surroundings. Those same contemporary ideals and earthy hues of terra-cotta and stone extend into JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa's 160 rooms, suites, and villas—many of which come equipped with their own private pools and terraces for your own private relaxation. Each accommodation has vast windows that show off that ocean view, along with handcrafted ceramic decor that pays homage to traditional Crete stylings. The best place to take in those Aegean sights, though, may be from the pools. You get to lounge around four here, one of which is adults-only with a slew of plush lounge chairs nearby. The main pool, meanwhile, is complete with a sunken seating spot and more touches of greenery. Elsewhere, you can head to the fitness center or the yoga deck for a bit of exercise. Or, for a little more pampering, visit the Anoseas Spa; here, you'll get treatments centered around traditional Creten practices imbued with modern flair, including hydrotherapy. And when it's time to grab a bite, you'll have plenty of eateries to choose from. The JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa is home to six, each with their own take on the local cuisine. Chef Manolis Papoutsakis mans the kitchen of Anoee, a Cretan open-fire restaurant, while Õnalos offers up a sea-to-table menu. If you have a craving for Italian, Cuccagna can deliver on that front, and Mediterranean dishes can be enjoyed at Fayi. Last but not least, Suncti by the Pool and Eēxis offer up light bites and cocktails for a more casual experience. Speaking of spirits, the hotel has collaborated with Line Athens (the No. 6 bar in the world in 2024) on a mixology program. And here, too, everything links back to nature: Cocktail herbs and botanicals and ingredients found across all the restaurants are plucked directly from the property's garden. 'This extraordinary property captures the essence of the JW Marriott brand, pairing warm, intuitive service with serene, thoughtfully designed spaces that invite guests to be present and truly connect,' Bruce Rohr, JW Marriott's vice president and global brand leader, said in a press statement. 'Crete's timeless beauty and heritage make it an inspiring setting for the brand's first property in the country, and we look forward to welcoming guests to experience our signature approach to hospitality and well-being on this iconic island.' JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa also offers activities for kids, thanks to its Phestos Den Play area. Plus there's plenty of fun to be found outside the resort; the property can whisk you away on journeys at sea or cultural experiences across Crete. . Best of Robb Report The Ultimate Miami Spa Guide: 15 Luxurious Places to Treat Yourself The 7 Most Insanely Luxurious Spas in the World, From Tokyo to Iceland 17 Reasons the Caribbean Should Be at the Top of Your Travel Itinerary Click here to read the full article.
Telegraph
5 days ago
- Telegraph
Forget Greece, head to Italy for an island-hopping adventure this summer
In my opinion, Greece, although beautiful, has too many islands. Choosing which one to visit is nearly impossible, the ferries are complicated, and holidays on the Aegean or Ionian too often turn into a sweaty tangle of logistics and are beset by the paralysis of indecision. By comparison, the lesser-known off the north-west coast of Sicily, with turquoise waters, rugged beaches and lashings of gelato, makes for an easier alternative. With straightforward ferries and only three of five islands open to visitors, the paradox of choice is eliminated. Here's our guide to visiting. Favignana Favignana is the largest island and, according to some, is where the Greek hero Odysseus came to hunt goats. Today it's highly prized among Sicilians, who jaunt over for weekend breaks from nearby Palermo. A 30-minute hydrofoil boat trip from the port of Trapani, it's geographically close to Sicily, but Favignana is worlds apart – life simply slows down here. Dimora Cala del Pozzo, hidden down a lane on the quieter west coast, makes for an excellent base to explore the island. An old farmhouse converted into a boutique hotel, the setting is serene and elegant. Handsomely furnished rooms are sound-tracked by the sea beyond, and a lavish breakfast is hosted in the cactus garden, including local ingredients from the family's organic farm. Locals advise checking the direction of the wind before choosing the best coves for swimming. Cala Trapanese is recommended, where the rocks form a natural swimming pool with views of Sicily across the water. Inland, visit the Garden of the Impossible to discover another link to the Odyssey myth. A spiky green plant that looks a bit like a cactus is, according to local guidebooks, apparently the plant that Circe used to turn Odysseus's men into pigs. Islanders were once sceptical about the feasibility of the botanical garden, which was created in a series of abandoned quarry pits. Today it's a peaceful oasis of tumbling vines, rare trees and plants, and includes an exhibition of sculptures by a local artist. Use the guidebook to explore (it's superior to the audio alternative). Favignana's history of quarrying has shaped the landscape of the island, and the exoskeleton of abandoned quarries forms architectural rock pools along the shoreline. Spot golden-brown Moray eels lurking in the pools at Scalo Cavallo, or visit Bue Marino, one of the former quarries, and explore the deep waters at one of the island's best snorkelling locations. Insider tip The best way to explore the island is by bicycle – try GAC rental shop. Beaches are mostly rocky, but Lido Burrone has white sand and is perfect for children. Where to eat Hotel Aegusa serves good pasta dishes on a pretty outdoor terrace. For something more high-end end try Sotto Sale or Quello che c'è...c'è! For pizza, visit Cala Bianca. Where to shop Bottega Camparia – a chic boutique with an expertly curated selection of fashion and homeware; Salvatore Aleo 's jewellery shop has pieces to suit a range of budgets; try Borinda Sanna for handmade ceramics. Where to stay In high season, it's quieter to stay outside the main village (Favignana Town), but you'll need to ensure you have bike lights to cycle back after dinner. Dimora Cala del Pozzo has doubles from £279/€330 per night, including breakfast, in high season. Its sister hotel Dimora Della Olivastro offers doubles from £261/€310 per night, including breakfast. Weekends in summer are especially busy – book in advance or plan your stay for the weekdays. Marettimo The most remote island in the archipelago, Marettimo, has also been linked to Homer's The Odyssey. Samuel Butler, a Victorian novelist, put forward a theory that this island was the inspiration for Ithaca – an exhibition is planned for later this year, which will showcase his photographs at the local museum. The island is an ideal place for hiking, and there are roughly 10 marked trails to choose from. A popular route leads up to the tiny Byzantine church, set like a jewel on a cliff facing out to sea, next to the ruins of a Roman house. For a longer walk, continue to reach Pizzo Falcone (the highest peak) and return from Portella Madonnuzza via the Punta Troia Castle (now a lovely museum) and back to the village. There are more than 500 different species of plants here, some of which are endemic to the island and scents of thyme and rosemary infuse the air as you walk. But the sea surrounding Marettimo is also a draw. The Aegadian Islands are protected by the largest marine reserve in Europe, and the scuba diving around Marettimo is particularly good thanks to its crystal clear waters. If you're extremely lucky, you might even spot a monk seal. Insider tip For a unique perspective, take a boat to see the island's caves – accessible only on the water. Tours by Pippo come highly recommended. Where to eat Pizzeria Hiera is one of the oldest restaurants on the island, and is practically an institution. Maria, now in her seventies, served delightful antipasto, including a miniature arancine made with cuttlefish ink and pistachio. Where to shop Local artist Massimo Pironi makes ceramics in his home studio – find him near Caffe Tramontana, where he sells pieces inspired by the island, the sea and the mountain. Where to stay La Tartaruga B&B – double rooms cost from £85/€100 in high season, including breakfast, with a three-night minimum stay. There are also plenty of apartments for rent; The Thinking Traveller has a villa on the island. Levanzo This tiny sparkling island is so pretty that it looks like a Hollywood set designer built it for a movie. Measuring just 2.25 square miles and with only three restaurants and a handful of beaches, Levanzo is known for its off-grid vibes. However, according to local reports, the Prada family own two houses here. Most people visit to look at the cave paintings at Grotta del Genovese, which date from both the Palaeolithic and Neolithic eras. Reserve in advance (guided tours cost £35/€42 for adults and £25/€30 for children) – there's quite a steep trail down to the cave, which can only be reached on foot. After seeing the cave paintings, it's worth strolling around the island. Cala Faraglione on the south-west coast, about 30 minutes' walk from the port, is the island's most picture-perfect beach, complete with a tiny island (technically a rock stack) floating offshore. End the day with a relaxing glass of Sicilian wine at one of the island's restaurants by the harbour before catching the last boat back to Favignana. Inside tip Cala Minnola is one of the nicest beaches for swimming Where to eat Try the pasta con gamberi at Bar Romano, an absurdly picturesque restaurant which juts out over the harbour with views of Favignana in the distance. Where to shop Mannaraò offers a selection of handmade jewellery and other delights. Where to stay Dolcevita Egadi Resort is a new hotel set a short walk from the port on a breezy terrace – rooms are simple and there's a swimming pool. Double rooms cost £321/€380 in high season, including breakfast, with a five-night minimum stay. How to get there Ryanair flies from London to Trapani in the summer months. Alternatively, fly to Palermo, take a bus to Trapani (about one hour) and hop on the Hydrofoil from Trapani port (30 to 45 minutes). There are regular boats between the islands but make sure you prebook tickets in high season Laura Coffey was a guest of Hotel Dimora Cala Del Pozzo.
Business Recorder
13-06-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
Airlines suspend flights after Israel strikes
Israel launching widescale strikes against Iran has prompted international airlines to halt flights to the region. Below are some of the airlines that have cancelled their flights to and from the region: Aegean airlines Greece's Aegean Airlines has cancelled all flights to and from Tel Aviv scheduled for Friday, June 13, it said. Airbaltic Latvia's airBaltic said that all flights to and from Tel Aviv until 23 June have been cancelled. Israel hits Iran nuclear and missile facilities, appears to block retaliation Aeroflot Russia's Aeroflot said that it had cancelled flights between Moscow and Tehran, and made changes to other routes in the Middle East after Israeli strikes on Iran. Air France-KLM Air-France said that it had suspended its flights to and from Tel Aviv until further notice. KLM has cancelled all flights to Tel Aviv until at least July 1, Dutch news agency ANP reported. Air India Air India said that multiple flights were either being diverted or returning to their origin. Israel's attack on Iran: Pakistan says airspace operating as per routine Ajet Turkish Airlines subsidiary AJet has cancelled flights to Iran, Iraq and Jordan until Monday morning, an AJet source said. The source said that AJet will operate flights to Lebanon only during daylight hours. It plans to operate flights to elsewhere in the Middle East including flying over Iraq without using the affected airspace, the source added. Delta air lines Travel to, from, or through Tel Aviv, may be impacted between June 12-June 30, the U.S. carrier said on its website. El Al Israel airlines El Al Israel Airlines said that it had suspended flights to and from Israel. Etihad airways Etihad Airways said that it had cancelled two flights between Abu Dhabi and Tel Aviv and delayed the departure of four others. PM Shehbaz condemns 'unprovoked' attack on Iran by Israel Emirates Emirates said that it had cancelled flights to and from Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, and Iran. Flydubai Flydubai said that it had suspended flights to Amman,Beirut, Damascus, Iran and Israel. ITA airways ITA Airways said that it will extend the suspension of Tel Aviv flights until July 31. Lufthansa group Lufthansa said that it had suspended all flights to and from Tehran. The German airline added that it would also avoid Iranian, Iraqi and Israeli airspace for now. Qatar airways Qatar Airways said that it had cancelled flights to and from Iraq, and Iran. Iran says no radiation increase at nuclear site after Israel strikes: IAEA Ryanair Ryanair said that it had cancelled flights to and from Tel Aviv until August 31. Tarom Romania's flag carrier said it had suspended all commercial flights to and from Tel Aviv, Beirut and Amman until Monday, June 16. Wizz air Wizz Air said that it had cancelled a number of flights scheduled to fly over areas affected by regional tensions in the Middle East.
