This is a very comfortable and charming apartment and is a real pleasure to spend your time in Syros. The decor and facilities are superb, with thoughtful touches such as breakfast items in the fridge, fresh bread and fresh fruit, and laundry detergent for the washing machine.
There are two double beds, one in a separate bedroom and the other is a studio style in the main living area. Two single chairs and a small table are in the same space, as is a dining table and two dining chairs. The space is suitable for a couple, a family of four, or a few friends. The bathroom is of a good size and is where the washing machine is located. The apartment shares a pretty and sunny garden with a neighbouring apartment.
Zoe, Eleni’s mother, was waiting for me when I arrived by taxi from the airport. What a pleasant surprise. She took one of my bags and we walked to the apartment, which is accessible by foot. Ermoupoli is built on the side of a hill and many houses can be reached only by foot.
Once I had settled in, Zoe offered to show me Astoria beach, a very nice bathing spot close by. We then walked to the port together, with Zoe giving me a sense of history of the town and interesting places to visit or dine. I felt at home and welcomed by her.
It takes about 10 minutes to walk to the port, which is a pleasant and easy journey. The return is not difficult at all, but do expect a lot of steps and to climb about 30 metres above sea level.
Ermoupoli is a charming city but is not well designed for people with mobility issues or for those traveling with wheeled luggage. However, it was nice to see that the city has implemented tactile paving for the vision impaired. There are many wild cats in the city, and should you be dining al fresco, some of them will rub against your legs hoping for food.
I had a lovely stay in Syros and look forward to returning again soon. When I do, I’ll be sure to see if Eleni’s apartment is available.