Fun Activities in Santorini: Horse Riding in Akrotiri!

Santorini is so much more than just the caldera views, the volcano and the sunset. The island offers a lot of different and interesting activities, which are there not only to make your stay in Santorini even more memorable, but also are a great way to explore the island and enjoy its hidden beauties.

One of such activities is horse riding. I can guarantee that you won't regret it if you go on trail ride in Santorini. The island has amazing landscapes, and the best and most amazing locations are not easily accessible by the usual means of transportation. They are accessible with horse though. If you truly wish to make the trip to Santorini memorable, make sure to stop by Santo Horse Riding in Akrotiri and arrange a tour.

What is so special about Santo Horse Riding?

1. Safety first

Santo Horse Riding cares a lot about the safety of its clients. You will get a fitting helmet for your protection, something that is really important when riding a horse. You will also get a pair of English chaps, to protect your legs from any bruising from the saddle.

The horses used for the trail rides, are perfectly trained for the job. They are calm, they know where they are going and what they are doing. The horses don't buck, don't bite, don't kick, which means that you will enjoy the ride without any unpleasant surprises. Moreover, you will be guided by one or two professional horse riders, who will give you instructions on how to handle the horse, and will be there to assist you if anything should happen.

2. Amazing routes

Santo Horse Riding is located in Akrotiri, on the road to the Red Beach and the Excavation point. The location of the stable is fantastic itself, but the routes are even better. The route starts by taking you thought the vine fields of Akrotiri, which are especially beautiful in the summer. Then you pass through amazing rocky formations, which make your feel that your are either on a different planet, or in a Western Movie! You end at the black beach of Santorini, where you can relax and take some nice photos to show your friends and family.

You can chose between the one hour route, which will take you to a secluded beach, or the two hour route, which takes you to the black beach of Vlychada. I strongly recommend choosing the two hour tour, as this particular route includes a quick stop at the St. Anna's beautiful church with the famous blue dome. Whatever route you choose though, you are guaranteed an amazing experience and unforgettable views!

3. Horse Riding Lessons

Santo Horse Riding offers horse riding lessons as well. If you like active vacations, and wish to learn a bit more about horses and horse riding, go for horse riding lessons! You will have a chance to learn a lot of interesting facts about horses, have an insight on how to take care of a horse, and you will learn a couple of great secrets for horse training.

Of course, you will also get to learn the basics of horse riding. You will have a professional horse riding trainer beside you, teaching you everything from the very beginning, so no need to worry if you don't have any previous experience in horse riding.

4. Wedding photo shoot with horses

For those couples, who wish to have unique photos from your wedding, you can arrange a wedding couple's photo shoot, or a pre/post wedding photo shoot with horses via Santo Horse Riding. You can have it directly at the stables or at the beach. The photos of you, as newlyweds, on horses, walking by the beach, will look so romantic and will be a great addition to your wedding photo album.

5. Marriage proposal on a horse

Be the knight she was always looking for, by taking her to an unforgettable trail ride in Santorini, which will include a dreamy, surprise marriage proposal. Santo Horse Riding can take you to a couple of amazing locations for a proposal, with great views and absolute privacy. Don't forget to have a photographer on the day, to capture the amazing moment!

What you need to know before going on a horse ride?

• If possible, wear closed shoes, like sneakers, for example. All though you can ride in flip flops, it will be much more comfortable with the sneakers.
• Ladies, avoid wearing high heels or dresses/skirts when going for a horse ride, instead chose shorts, or, even better, pants!  
• Never go behind a horse. Yes, Santo Horse Riding's horses are trained not to kick, but you shouldn't forget that horses are leaving, breathing creatures, that can get scared at the wrong moment while you will be standing behind them.
• Listen to the trainers. They are professional horse riders and care only for your safety and for you to have a great time. So listen to what they have to tell you, and follow their instructions.
• Last, but not least, if you are too scared to ride a horse, don’t do it. You won't enjoy it, and the rest of group might not enjoy the trip as well. No one will judge.

So, to summaries, whether you came to Santorini to get married, or just for vacation, be sure to stop by Santo Horse Riding for an unforgettable horse riding experience. Arrange a group tour for your wedding guests, or just for your group of friends.

For contact information, please visit Santo Horse Riding's official website - http://santorinihorseriding.gr/

Thank you very much for reading, and I wish you a lovely day!

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Santorini marriage proposal ideas!

I've already wrote two posts about marriage proposals in the past, in the first expressing my personal thoughts on the topic, and giving some advice on what not to do when proposing in the second. I've also mentioned, that it is a good idea to combine your marriage proposal with a nice holiday at a different country. Why not have your marriage proposal while travelling to Santorini then? 

Santorini has a lot to offer to couples in love, from its wonderful sunsets and amazing scenery to fun activities to do on the island, and there are plenty of ways to make your marriage proposal unique and memorable.

Dinner proposal:

Wedding Venue - Gem Villa http://santorinigem.com/

Popping the question over a nice, romantic dinner is probably the first thought that comes to mind when thinking of a marriage proposal. Combined with the amazing views that Santorini has to offer, your special someone will most certainly appreciate the location that you chose.

Santorini has a number of perfect venues for an unforgettable private or semi-private proposal dinner. The perks of a private dinner, is that since you will be having the place to yourself, you can decorate it to make it look even more beautiful for your special dinner.

Just imagine, having the table set-up under a white canopy decorated with flowers, a chandelier, candles all over the terrace. All that, combined with a magical sunset and the breathtaking views of Santorini's cliffside and the volcano. It is truly magical.

If you wish to make the evening even more memorable, add fireworks! Pop the question after the sun sets, and once your other half says her or his "Yes", launch the fireworks! It will be a perfect way to express your enthusiasm and happiness for this new chapter in your life!

Private Cruise:

Wish to propose in not a so "traditional" way? Go to a private sunset catamaran cruise. Not only you will have a chance to visit the volcano, the hot springs, maybe even the island of Thirasia if you have the time, but you will also add a touch of adventure to your marriage proposal.  

Inform the cruise company in advance of your decision to make a proposal during your trip. The company will be able to make suggestions on the best location and timing of the proposal. The crew, which you will have on the day, will also be able to assist you with the proposal.

There are a number of ways to propose on the catamaran. You could, for example, ask the crew to put the ring in a champagne glass, and serve the champagne to you and your other half during the sunset. You could even propose at the volcano, since you will most probably visit it. Not many people do that, so it will be a pleasant surprise to your future Mrs. or Mr.

Think outside the box:

If both of you are adventurous types, then organize fun activities on the island and ask for her or his hand during one of those activities. After the "Yes!!!!" ,go to a nice restaurant, tavern, or club to celebrate.

What fun activities you could do on the island? A lot!! Thankfully, Santorini has plenty of things to do, besides enjoying the local wine at the pool of your hotel during sunset. Plan three of four days of activities and have the time of your life in Santorini.

On the first day go on a speed boat ride or jet-ski ride. Make the traditional visit of the caldera sea more fun and memorable! If you are into water sports in general, plan to spend a day in Perivolos and visit Crazy Waterspots. I believe you will have a great time ;)

Horse Riding on Eros Beach by www.santorinihorseriding.gr/ .
Photography by www.evolokitina.com

Spend the second day exploring Akrotiri. Go the excavation point to see the ancient city and dive into the history of the island. Don't forget to visit the famous red beach afterwards.

After all that, make sure to stop at the Santo HorseRiding for an unforgettable horse riding trip in Santorini. You will be able to see locations and scenery of the island, which you would otherwise miss, since they are not easily accessible by car. Not only that, but the pictures of you and your beloved girlfriend or boyfriend on horses on the black beach, will make a great addition to your proposal photo album.

Cycling tours in Santorini - www.santoriniadventures.gr/

On the third day, go for a cycling tour around the island! There are many routs available for every taste. Choose the one you like the most, and explore Santorini even more! Visit Santorini Adventures for more information.

Going for a horse riding trip or cycling tour, will give you the chance to make the marriage proposal at the most amazing spot on the island, making the moment for ever remembered by you and your special someone.

If you wish to learn more about what Santorini has to offer for more unforgettable marriage proposals, you are welcome to contact me directly and together we will find what will be the best way to pop the question!

Thank you very much for reading and I wish you a lovely day!  

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5 proposal mistakes better to avoid

Last time, I shared with you my thoughts on marriage proposals. I've mentioned that I'm a big fan of unique and memorable ways to ask for the hand of your sweetheart. While looking for an unforgettable way to propose to your special someone, there are some things that you should consider…  things that might actually turn the romantic moment into a disaster.

After performing a small survey on Santorini, I've chosen the top 5 worst marriage proposal mistakes.

1. The crowd

I'm sure a lot of us would love the idea of a public proposal, be that at a popular location of your town, in the movie theatre, with a public announcement at the metro station etc., there are still a lot of people who would prefer a more private proposal. Before conjuring an amazing plan, which will involve the whole football stadium sharing your special moment, make sure you other half would be comfortable with such a big audience. If she or he does not like to share personal moments with strangers or is simply a shy person, your proposal might end up being remembered for the wrong reason. Better go with a "stay-at-home" plan.

2. The argument

Sometimes, even the most loved couple's can get into fights. The best way to end it, is by acknowledging your mistake or offering a peaceful negotiation. By no means proposing in the heat of the argument is a good idea! Yes, it might sound like a perfect way to switch the energy from bad to good, in reality it is an almost guaranteed "NO!". Your significant other won't feel surprised and excited, and most probably receive it as a really bad joke. Surround the proposal with positive memories, not negative ones.

3. The panic attack!

You are an adventurous type. You like to go kayaking, sky diving, bungee jumping. You might be in love with the adrenaline rushing through your veins. While your other half might be supportive of your hobbies or job, it does not necessarily mean that he or she would like to engage in such activities. Before planning a paragliding proposal, make sure your future Mrs. or Mr. is not afraid of heights! If you really wish to propose during a fun activity, choose something less … exciting. Go on a catamaran cruise or at a nice hike.

4. The lazy

Some people prefer the quite indoor life: watch a movie, read a book, play chess. It is especially great when you, yourself, are an indoor person, and the love of your life is an indoor person as well. Together you conquer the minecraft universe, enjoy cooking, or spend hours snugging on the couch and just being lazy together. Having said that, as much as you like being lazy on your free, this does not mean that your proposal should be a lazy one as well. Don't just ask your sweetheart to look at drawer for a surprise. Get creative and get of the couch!!

5. The food allergies

The most classic and 100% success proved way to ask for the hand of your one and only, is after a delicious and romantic dinner. If you decide to go to your favorite restaurant to propose, your girlfriend or boyfriend will choose something for themselves. If, on the other hand, you decide to prepare dinner yourself, make sure to know any food allergies your other half might have. Ending such a promising evening at the emergency room because of a silly tomato allergy, is certainly the last thing you would wish for.

Whichever way you choose to propose, ensure that both you and you loved one will equally enjoy it. This is a good reason not to jump into marriage after the first six months you've been together, but to give it some time to get to know your new found love. Don't make it a 30 year wait though. ;)

Thank you very much for reading!

You have my warmest wishes. 

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Marriage Proposals - Thoughts and ideas

I've been posting about various topics about weddings, so I would like to take a break from that and talk about probably the most important part of a wedding - the marriage proposal! This is the first big step in the couple's life (second, if you have already moved together), that leads to the I-do's and a happy life together. It would be unfair not to put this topic under the spotlight.

Original and unique marriage proposals are becoming more and more popular this days, and I personally absolutely really like this trend. Of course, romantic proposals at a nice restaurant will never go out of fashion, but the more creative your get with your marriage proposal, the more memorable it will be for you and your future Mrs. or Mr.

Two years ago I had the chance to plan a truly unique, carefully thought, and amazing marriage proposal, which included hidden cameras, a helicopter, horse riding, and a private dinner at the most isolated location I could find in Santorini. It was a combination of romantic and adventurous, just the perfect combination for a memorable proposal.

As you might guessed, I love unique marriage proposals. I know for sure, that if my lovely boyfriend decided to propose, I would be a little bit disappointed if he didn't involve horses when asking for my hand. I'm crazy about horses and if I didn’t see horses on that day, I would probably had doubts that he really knows with who he's dealing with. Make your other half feel truly special, by including his/her favorite thing in the world.

What makes a proposal unique? It could be a song, it could be the location, it could a game or movie he or she loves. Whatever is "special" for you and your boyfriend or girlfriend, it would be really nice and thoughtful to include it in the proposal. This could serve as proof, that you truly pay attention and care about what is special for your other half, as silly as it may sound or look.

For example, does your special someone likes to dance, but you yourself are not such a good dancer? Surprise her or him by taking some dance lessons, and then taking her/him out where you could show your freshly acquired skills. When he or she less expects it make the proposal. You sweetheart will not only be moved that you took interested in his/her hobby, but will also love the fact that you asked for her/his hand in such a special way.

Another idea is to make the marriage proposal part of an unforgettable adventure. Plan fun activities for 3, 4, or even more days. Go to a nice trip to a different country, go sightseeing, go horse riding, diving, sky diving, if you are brave enough (I'm not…), carnivals, wine tastings, anything the place your are visiting has to offer. Then, at the end of it make the proposal. After the proposal, the "Yes" and the tears of happiness, go to a nice, romantic dinner.

You could plan something which will include your friends and family. Have a family dinner at her or his parents' house. Have the lights suddenly go off and when they will be back on again, surprise your future Mrs. or Ms. with the message. Have a party at your house (find a good reason though, so you won't make her/him suspicious) and conjure up a plan with your friends for the memorable proposal. What a better way to propose, if not around your loving friends and family. Just make sure to let them know about your plan.

If you prefer something more quite and away from the public, there are plenty of ways to make the proposal in a unique way at home. My personal favorite is involving your pets, like hanging the ring or the message on your dogs collar. Make sure your dog or cat knows what to do, so they won't end running away with the ring! Have a quite game of scrabble, and surprise your sweetheart with the "marry me" message. You could even plan a special evening for your other half when he or she comes back from work. Prepare a relaxing bath for her or him, offer a massage to further relax your loved one, cook his or her favorite dinner. At the end of all that, pop the question. It will the best way to end an amazing evening!

Whatever you decide to do, making it unique and special is what will make it remembered for life. Put some effort in the proposal. Your other half will most certainly appreciate it! Who wouldn't melt from love, knowing that their boyfriend or girlfriend takes interest in his or her hobbies and favorite things to do. This is a perfect way to show how deeply you care about your future Mrs. or Mr.

The next blog post will be dedicated to what not to do for your marriage proposal.

As always, thank you very much for reading, and I'll be glad to see you again! 

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