Paxos is a tiny Greek island at the top of the Ionian Sea, or the bottom of the Adriatic. This is more significant because at the top of the Adriatic Sea is the Gulf of Venice, which explains the strong Venetian influence in the buildings of Paxos and in the groves of ancient olive trees planted on terraces that cover the island. The olive trees planted by the Venetian are protected by NATURA which is an European Union initiative protecting areas of historical significance. This explains why many of the buildings in Paxos are built incorporating the very substantial olive trees in their design.
Accessible only by boat has meant that Paxos, and its permanent inhabitants, have missed the full onslaught of commercialization. They have only taken the positive aspects out of tourism and followed these points. It has also meant that as a tourist you get a timeless authentic Greek holiday experience. Following this, most of the modern day trappings we are so used to in a modern day, fast paced world, are available but you just need to find them out, ask for help. This will add to the feeling of adventure and exploration, and the feeling that anything could be lost in translation! Nothing is handed to you. Nothing will show you this more than the ferry system to anti-paxos. There are no signs, no obvious queues, but if you ask the ferryman he will efficiently point your in the right direction. Human conversation is very much alive and well in Paxos.
Difficult accessibility and its rugged terrain encourage the stories of fleeing fugitives taking refuge on Paxos. The rocky bays and caves, that can only be explored by boat, make the stories of hidden submarines during war time come alive. This all culminates with the statue of Giorgos Anemogiannis and his story of bravery as part of a fire ship, sabotaging the enemy ships on the eve of the attack on Paxos and being hung for his crime. He was only 23 at the time but he is honored forever with a statue at the entrance to Giaos harbour.
The colors of the ocean are enough to make any amateur artist nervous at the thought of trying to replicate them back home. There are not enough hues of blue and green paint to even try. And to try and portrait those white pebble beaches and rocky coves causes anxiety sweats at the audacity of taking on the task. Besides the relaxing and calming ocean there is a small but vibrant side to Paxos. Our children (lead by the varsity student) found the one and only nightclub on Paxos and by all accounts “had the time of my life”. I will take their word for it.
Paxos is on display for 3 frantic, intense summer months with temperatures hovering around 29 degrees day and night. For the other 9 months of the year the island continues with life. What a stark contrast. It is easy to see why people return time and time again to this jewel. For a lady it is like your favourite pair of black evening shoes. They put on a damn good show and are comfy to boot, but don’t take them for granted as they are hard to find. Treat them well.
Pink Farm Chick 