| WORLD BRIDE MAGAZINE |

Athens is the City of the Gods, the Acropolis, the 2004 Olympics and every luxury in the world. Before you and your honey skip off to the Greek Isles, take some time to discover why the glitterati flock first to this Mediterranean capital. Here is just one snapshot of how you could spend a dreamy honeymoon in a mythic and magical place.

The Lap of Grecian Luxury
You and your dearly beloved check into the Astir Palace, Greece’s “Leading Resort of 2005,” comprised of three hotels regally sprawled out over famous Vouliagmenis Beach. Whether you are in the mood for a classical, sophisticated or modern atmosphere, you find that the Astir Palace has it all.

You indulge in the resort’s three private beaches and myriad of amenities – not to mention the countless water sports at the beach. You realize that you can be as active or relaxed as you please because everything you need and want is right under your nose.

Fine dining is a distinct pleasure. You start your evening at the resort’s Le Sommelier, where you delight in some of the finest Grecian wines. You then head over to Taverna 37 where you indulge in delicious olives, Greek salad, and mouth-watering moussaka, and wash it down with the Greek spirit, "ouzo". For the freshest, most succulent seafood and shellfish, dine at the Club House situated cliff-side where you revel in the warm hues of the Mediterranean sunset.

The Historic Heart of Athens
As newlyweds, you may prefer to be centrally-located, and if that’s the case, you take up residence at the King George II Palace – a hotel located in the heart of Athens on Syntagma (Constitution) Square. Request the Presidential Suite and the two of you may never want to leave. Like at the Astir Palace, your stay can be a healthy balance of relaxation and action.

Tantalize your taste buds with an authentic Greek gastronomic experience and try one of the city’s oldest restaurants, Delfi on Nikis Street, three blocks from your hotel. Then do some sightseeing. After a quick hike to the legendary Acropolis and visit to the Parthenon and Temple of Hera, check out a couple of Athens’ great museums, such as the Goulandris Museum of Natural History or the National Archaeological Museum of Athens. Even in the newly renovated subway stations, you can find large glass cases filled with recently excavated artifacts. You are constantly amidst endless history and beauty!

Want to go where the glitterati go? Make your way to Pil-Poul and relish the views of the Acropolis and Lycabettus Hill – a 1,000 ft. hill of limestone in the center of Athens which is illuminated at night – while consuming the finest of Greek-European fusion.

When in Athens . . .
Do as the Athenians do! Live the Greek lifestyle by dining late and partying even later. After all that romantic private time, you may decide to partake in the sizzling nightlife. It is customary for Greeks to eat dinner around 10 or 11 p.m. For nighttime revelers, the party goes on until the sun peeks out over the horizon.

During the summer months, hit up the chic, seaside nightclub called Akrotiri. By-pass the never-ending admission queue by dining there earlier. Not only is Akrotiri super cool and trendy with Dior and Gucci-clad bodies running around, but the food is first-class, created by the award-winning chef, Christophe Clessienne. Think you’ll be tired after dinner? Guess again, because the world beat vibes will have you dancing all night long.

If visiting in the off season, the best nightlife is in the Plaka – the Old City – where you will find traditional live Greek music at the Perivoli T. Ouranou Club, The Misikleous Music Club, or Stoa Ton Athanaton in the Central Market. There is also a large jazz and blues scene in Athens, which was cultivated nearly forty years ago. The place to dig the scene is at the number one jazz and blues lounge, Parafono. Rock clubs such as Rodon and An can be found in Exarchia and famous ouzeries such as Platia Iroon in Psiri.

Another bonus for spending your honeymoon in Athens is its proximity to the Greek Islands! Most people hop on a fairy or catch a quick flight to the islands. An alternative is to charter a private yacht from Easy Yachting and have your skipper whisk you off to Corfu, Crete, Santorini, Mykonos or Hydra where you can anchor in secluded bays inaccessible to pedestrians or vehicles, snorkel in azure waters, and dine at quaint, little, village restaurants. Begin your marriage with an adventure steeped in history, romantic legends and luxury and discover Athens!