Mykonos

Mykonos was one of the first Greek islands to be adored by the hippies and backpackers of the '60s and '70s. It was isolated, cheap and unspoiled. Then the cool kids found out about it and it has never been the same. Every rock star, movie starlet, fashionista and all other hipsters eventually pay a call on Mykonos. And other people of all kinds and every kind as well. You can have a really good time on Mykonos, just remember, "I don't think we're in Greece anymore, Toto." Locals can easily be outnumbered by visitors from literally all over the world, who come for the sun, sand and sex. It's a hedonist's haven. The nightlife is more exciting ...

Mykonos was one of the first Greek islands to be adored by the hippies and backpackers of the '60s and '70s. It was isolated, cheap and unspoiled. Then the cool kids found out about it and it has never been the same. Every rock star, movie starlet, fashionista and all other hipsters eventually pay a call on Mykonos. And other people of all kinds and every kind as well. You can have a really good time on Mykonos, just remember, "I don't think we're in Greece anymore, Toto." Locals can easily be outnumbered by visitors from literally all over the world, who come for the sun, sand and sex. It's a hedonist's haven. The nightlife is more exciting than New York or Las Vegas. Some beaches and hotels are gayer than the Castro in San Francisco. Most beaches are clothing optional; bring lots of sun block. While it was cheap back in the day, you'll need a bit of cash now, unless you plan to camp out on a beach and live on pizza and beer. And many do. If you plan to do Mykonos, and maybe you should, do it quickly and intensely, then move on. Otherwise, you will not have really been to Greece. A great party, yes. But not really Greece.

About the Expert

Richard Sterling is the author of Lonely Planet's World Food: Greece, Eyewitness Travel Guide Vietnam, and many other books.