Sail to Your Perfect Retirement on the Island of Paxos, Greece
Editor’s Note: This story appeared on Live and Invest Overseas.
They say happiness is equal to the size of your house.
If this saying can also be applied to the size of the island, then you will be a very happy person if you move to Paxos, the smallest island of the Ionian Islands of Greece.
At only six miles long and about two miles wide, Paxos definitely qualifies as small. But although its land area is limited, its natural beauty, local appeal, and culinary creativity are limitless.
The peaks and valleys of Paxos are densely forested with Mediterranean cypress trees, kermes oak and wild olive trees. Because they are so small, Paxos can be easily reached on foot or by motorbike (or by bike if you don’t mind the hills).
The cry of the sea
A trip around the island reveals a scattering of colorful villages that are home to a surprisingly wide selection of bars, restaurants, and cafes.
It also reveals many of Paxos’ hidden spots of crystal clear water and white pebble beaches … as well as the shocking anomalies of the landscape, such as Tripitos Arch, a naturally formed rock sculpture that acts as a window to the sea, or the white cliffs of Erimitis Bay.
But to get the best of Paxos, you have to go to the beach.
What’s really interesting about living here for many expats is the boating lifestyle it lends itself to … whether it’s island hopping on a bare-bones motorboat or sailing around on a luxury yacht to see and be seen. Paxos lends itself well to a high-end lifestyle, if that’s what you’re looking for.
Culture and communication
But it is also traditional at its core, with Greek cultural values - family, hospitality, religion, and so on – felt strongly.
The local language in Paxos is Greek, but most locals speak at least enough English to get by in everyday life without learning Greek. Things like ordering food at a restaurant, buying groceries, contacting real estate agents, filling up the gas tank, etc. can be done easily and effectively in English.
The best way to get in touch with the culture of Paxos is through its food. There is no shortage of great places to eat and drink here. Eating out is an inexpensive indulgence, and the service is attentive and professional.
From Greek bars to Italian restaurants serving homemade pasta, burger joints to gastronomic high-ends, high-end ice cream shops to craft beers and happy hour cocktails … the options in Paxos are enough to keep any foodie happy.
Paxos is a favorite destination for yachtsmen and boaters. Notice this from the moment you arrive. Its coves and bays are full of large white yachts, catamarans, and sailboats.
Upscale cafes and restaurants cater to yachtsmen, many of whom have British art prints and are dressed in white linen and boat shoes. If you are someone who likes the yachting or sailing lifestyle, Paxos could be perfect for you.
Although small in size, Paxos is large and has the potential for a life full of peace, tranquility, and Mediterranean joy.
