Some dream destinations seem out of reach, whether for financial reasons or distance. With their heavenly beaches and crystal clear waters, the Maldives are among those places that make travelers fantasize, but whose prohibitive cost quickly puts us back on earth. Fortunately, there are more accessible alternatives, particularly in Europe, which allow you to have a similar experience without blowing your PEL. The island of Corfu, in Greece, is the perfect example, as reported by our colleagues from Women’s Journal.
Corfu, the Maldives of Europe?
Located just a 2 hour 40 minute flight from Paris, Corfu attracts visitors with its enchanting setting and more affordable cost of living, around 13% lower than that of France, according to data shared by
How-much-cost.net. In winter, temperatures in Corfu are relatively mild compared to those in France. They generally oscillate between 8°C and 15°C from December to February and reach 24 degrees from May. Its magnificent and wild beaches, from Halikounas to Barbati via Glyfada, have nothing to envy of certain tropical landscapes.
In addition to its idyllic beaches, Corfu has a rich cultural and historical heritage. Its old town, listed as a UNESCO world heritage site, is a mix of Venetian, French and British influences. On the budget side, Corfu allows you to live a luxurious experience at a lower cost. As explained
The Women’s Journallunch at a local restaurant costs around 10 euros per person, while a cold beer costs on average 2.80 euros. For a night in a 5-star palace, it costs around 200 euros, a much more reasonable rate than that of luxury hotels in the Maldives.
What to do in Corfu?
Corfu is full of activities for the most curious of travelers. For example, you can hike up Mount Pantokrator, the highest point on the island, which offers stunning panoramic views of the Ionian Sea. When the weather is clear, you can even see the Albanian coast. The Canal d’Amour, with its thin strip of sand separating the Ionian Sea into small coves, is worth a detour. Nature lovers will also appreciate Lake Korission, a peaceful lagoon where you can observe flamingos and migratory birds. As for history buffs, a visit to the Achilleion Palace, former residence of Empress Sissi with neoclassical architecture, is certainly a must-do.
