Good news from the NYtimes

I found this on nytimes.com . . .


WHY NOW The bad news from Greece — striking workers, mounting debt crisis — may be good news for tourists. The crisis has depressed prices and made Greece a better bargain for Americans. “It’s a golden opportunity to visit Greece right now,” said Nikolas Zoulakis, a spokesman for Greece’s tourism office in New York City. The hot Mediterranean is also milder now through June, with temperatures on the islands hovering in the high 70s. And the beaches are not yet packed with pasty-white vacationers.

WHAT TO DO Spring on the mainland tends to be gray and rainy, so head to the sunnier Greek islands in the south. Watch the wildflowers bloom from the rustic tavernas, beautiful beaches and countless gorges of Crete, Greece’s largest island. Or enjoy the rare solitude of Santorini’s seaside hamlets, while taking in the spectacular views of the island’s volcano at sunset. Ferry schedules are nearly fully operational now.

WHERE TO STAY Even the Greek Islands’ most exclusive hotels are dropping their prices. On Santorini, the Astarte Suites (Kaldera Akrotiri; 30-2286-0833-88; astartesuites.gr), a family-run boutique that overlooks Santorini Volcano, has a pair of junior suites with private verandas and whirlpool tubs encased in Swarovksi crystals that start at 220 euros, or about $290 at $1.32 to the euro (jumps to 330 euros, or $436, after June 1). In Crete, the Elounda Ilion Hotel (72053 Elounda; 30-2841-0417-03; elounda-ilion.com) renovated its expansive pool deck and 30 minimalist rooms last year. Doubles with bay views start at 94 euros before June.

WHERE TO EAT Chances are, your travel plans will take you through Athens. A scenic spot to ease into the bustling capital is Dionysos Zonars (43 Robertou Galli Street; 30-210-9233182; dionysoszonars.gr), a modern Greek restaurant overlooking the Acropolis. On Santorini, Selene (30-2286-0222-49; selene.gr), a food lover’s favorite known for creative Cycladic dishes, is moving to the town of Pyrgos this month, to a yellow house facing the Aegean. And on Crete, Avli (Xanthoudidou 22, Rethymnon; 30-28310-58250; avli.gr), tucked within a leafy Venetian-style courtyard, serves traditional Cretan dishes like fouriariko, slow-roasted goat smothered in thyme and honey.

DON’T MISS The black sand beaches of Santorini, like Kamari and Perissa, can be scorching in summer. But in May, it’s less risky to go barefoot, and sun worshipers can work on their tans.