“A lot of these workers are making 700 euros a month, working 30 days. It’s just, it’s crazy, that needs to change.”

— George Stroumboulis

WHAT IS BEING SAID ABOUT MYKONOS AND ITS TOURISM - from my podcast with raphael kontos:

Raphael Kontos: And because Mykonos has a lot of money, it had attracts not the best people. Because it's like night in combination with the money attracts a lot of people that don't really serve the customer as they have to do, as they used to be like in Mykonos.

George Stroumboulis: Absolutely. So I just read yesterday, Greece is on fire. I landed here the end of May, right? The airport was packed. Hotels are booked. The hotel we're staying in here was three times the regular price. And we're just entering June. It's insane. But I actually read that Mykonos, they're booking this year is lower than expected.

Raphael Kontos: It's one of the worst seasons, like summers in history. Okay. The island is at a turning point where they have overbuilt. Some of them are not illegal. They have skipped the lot to build. It's a tough place. You have to fight, even if you are from the government you have, it's not easy to enforce the law because there are a lot of, some fellow say that like interest, high interest for many strong entrepreneurs to build, continue building. It's not easy. The resource of the island are depleted a little bit like the, either for serious with us underwater, the water. They're pumping all the water from the ground. And now the sea’s coming from the ground. So in the near future, they say that in the next two years, the majority of the island, the whales will not have clean water, but they will have with salt water from the sea. So there are a lot of press in the island. It's very time like you have 10,000, less than 10,000 locals and you have 2 million people come there. For me, I’m not like an expert, but at the same time, you have to put a limit to the tourists and the building that you are doing. You can't open five, 10 hotels every, every year.

George Stroumboulis: No. Because the roads aren't getting bigger. It's the same roads. It’s a very tough island to navigate. But here's the thing at from the outside, right? Growing up, once I started hitting my teens Mykonos every summer, last time I was there was probably four years ago for a bachelor party. It starts getting, especially someone who knows Greece, loves Greece, comes here like you feel for me, you start feeling cheated when you go there. Like sunbeds, on the main island, maybe it's 20 euros to rent. There it goes 150, depending on where you're, a lot of the prices have gotten so crazy that it's great for the locals. You guys have just capitalized on it.

Raphael Kontos: I don't think, I really party. I disagree. I do believe that Mykonos is a premium place. It should be a premium place. It's like jewel, like diamonds. Okay. It's very small place. A very boutique place. It should be this way, but at the same time, you can't have like, and the business owners that they do, you have to have the same service. It's not like if they charge 150, they have to have an assistant to have to run the staff to run the business. They don't have, they have very low salaries to the staff. Like, you can't expect the staff to share like the, your customers like this. There are a lot of people that don't really, they want to take just quick money. Like this is what is happening. Because you can go there. You have come around the corner and charge people with high prices. It's not this way. It should not be this way.

George Stroumboulis: It should not be. Because when you're charging that 150 for a sunbed, the person that's working there all month is maybe making a thousand euros. Right. Working 30 days.

Raphael Kontos: And she lives only seven days a week. 12 hours at least. Very bad situation. Like, they live with 10, 20 people together. And a thousand in Greece is nothing. Some people abroad think that okay, they get 1000 euro, but they can leave. No, you can't leave. With 1000, you have five half of that, or 60% of that goes to rent. Like, you can't live with that. It's not well paid. It's very bad place. And for this reason now they don't, now the country is behind. So the economy is developing. Now, they cannot find workers. They can't find, but still they have the very low salaries.

George Stroumboulis: Yeah. I'll tell you how quickly they'll find. Instead of a thousand euros a month, go to 2000. You'll see how quickly people will free up. That's why coming here, go to Navarino. You go to Mykonos in this like a thousand dollars a night for a hotel room has become very normal here. And you're going and you're being treated and you're seeing people. And we're seeing a thousand rounding up. A lot of these workers are making 700 euros a month, working 30 days. It's just, it's crazy, that needs to change. Because the prices are already increasing, but you're not increasing the labor. There's definitely a big issue coming.

Mykonos is one of the most popular (and expensive) Greek islands to visit.

CHECK OUT MORE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fAuYPCjUX7E

WHAT IS SO SPECIAL ABOUT MYKONOS

Mykonos, an island in the Aegean Sea in Greece, is a highly popular destination for several reasons:

Stunning Beaches: Mykonos boasts numerous beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters and golden sands. From lively beach bars to secluded coves, there's a beach to suit every traveler's preferences.
Charming Cycladic Architecture: The island's architecture is characterized by its iconic whitewashed buildings with blue accents, creating a picturesque and postcard-perfect setting.
Vibrant Nightlife: Mykonos is renowned for its vibrant and diverse nightlife scene. The island comes alive after dark with bustling bars, clubs, and beach parties, attracting party-goers from all over the world.
Luxury and Exclusive Experiences: Mykonos is famous for its luxury offerings, including upscale hotels, high-end restaurants, and boutique shops. It has become a favorite destination for celebrities and affluent travelers seeking exclusivity and privacy.
Iconic Windmills: The island's iconic windmills are a symbol of Mykonos and offer a unique and charming sight that adds to the island's allure.
Historical and Cultural Attractions: Mykonos has a rich history, and visitors can explore historical landmarks, museums, and ancient ruins, offering a blend of leisure and cultural experiences.
Food and Cuisine: The island offers a diverse culinary scene, with a wide array of traditional Greek dishes and international cuisines served in picturesque settings.
Boating and Water Activities: Mykonos provides opportunities for various water activities, such as yacht tours, sailing, and watersports, allowing visitors to explore the beautiful coastline and nearby islands.
Art and Shopping: Mykonos is a hub for art galleries and unique shops, offering an excellent shopping experience for art collectors and fashion enthusiasts.
Welcoming Atmosphere: The warm hospitality and friendly locals contribute to a welcoming and inviting atmosphere that makes visitors feel at home.
Accessibility: Mykonos is well-connected by air and sea, making it easily accessible for travelers from around the world.
Instagrammable Spots: The island's scenic landscapes and photogenic spots make it a favorite destination for influencers and photography enthusiasts.

Overall, the unique blend of stunning landscapes, vibrant nightlife, luxurious offerings, and a rich cultural heritage all contribute to Mykonos' popularity as a top-notch destination for travelers seeking a memorable and diverse vacation experience.

WHY IS MYKONOS SO EXPENSIVE

Mykonos is often perceived as an expensive destination due to several factors that contribute to higher costs for travelers:

High Demand: Mykonos is a highly popular destination, especially during the peak summer months. The high demand for accommodation, restaurants, and services allows businesses to charge premium prices.
Luxury Tourism: Mykonos is known for its luxury offerings, including upscale hotels, high-end restaurants, and exclusive experiences. Catering to affluent travelers contributes to the overall higher price range.
Limited Space and Resources: Mykonos is a small island with limited space and resources. As a result, the cost of land, construction, and supplies can be higher, leading to increased prices for accommodations, restaurants, and activities.
Seasonal Business: Tourism on Mykonos is highly seasonal, with the majority of visitors arriving during the summer months. Businesses need to make most of their profits during this period, which can lead to higher prices.
Imported Goods: As an island, Mykonos relies on importing many goods, including food and beverages. Importation costs and the logistics of transportation contribute to higher prices.
High Operating Costs: Running businesses on an island can be more costly due to factors like higher utility costs, maintenance expenses, and salaries to attract skilled personnel.
Exclusivity and Prestige: Mykonos has established itself as a luxury destination, attracting visitors seeking exclusivity and prestige. Businesses leverage this image to set premium prices.
Entertainment and Events: Mykonos hosts numerous parties, events, and entertainment options that attract a party-seeking crowd, contributing to higher prices at clubs, bars, and venues.
Short Tourist Season: The tourist season on Mykonos is relatively short, lasting mainly from late spring to early autumn. Businesses need to generate enough revenue during this limited period to sustain themselves throughout the year.
Foreign Currency Exchange: For travelers coming from countries with weaker currencies, the exchange rate can make Mykonos more expensive in comparison.

Despite its reputation for being pricey, Mykonos continues to be a popular destination due to its stunning beauty, vibrant atmosphere, and luxurious experiences that appeal to a wide range of travelers. While the island can be costly, visitors can still find budget-friendly options and enjoy a memorable experience by planning ahead and making thoughtful choices.

WHAT ARE THE TOURISTS LIKE IN MYKONOS

Tourists in Mykonos are diverse, and the island attracts a wide range of visitors from around the world. Here are some common characteristics of tourists in Mykonos:

International Travelers: Mykonos is a popular international destination, attracting tourists from various countries and cultures. Visitors come from Europe, the United States, Asia, Australia, and other parts of the world.
Affluent Travelers: Mykonos has a reputation as a luxury destination, and it attracts many affluent travelers seeking upscale experiences, luxury accommodations, and high-end dining options.
Party-Goers: The island is famous for its vibrant nightlife, and it attracts many party-goers, especially during the peak summer months. Clubs, beach bars, and nightlife venues are bustling with tourists looking to enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Couples and Honeymooners: Mykonos is a romantic destination, making it popular among couples and honeymooners seeking a picturesque setting for their special moments.
Solo Travelers: Mykonos also appeals to solo travelers looking for adventure, relaxation, and opportunities to meet new people at the island's social venues.
LGBTQ+ Travelers: Mykonos is known for being LGBTQ+ friendly and hosts a significant number of LGBTQ+ travelers who are attracted to the island's inclusive and vibrant atmosphere.
Yachting and Sailing Enthusiasts: Mykonos is a popular stop for yachts and sailing enthusiasts exploring the Greek islands. Many tourists arrive on private yachts or as part of organized sailing trips.
Cultural and History Enthusiasts: Mykonos has a rich cultural and historical heritage, and it appeals to tourists interested in exploring ancient ruins, museums, and traditional Greek architecture.
Fashion and Design Lovers: The island's chic boutiques and trendy shops attract fashion-conscious travelers who appreciate the unique designs and stylish offerings.
Beach and Watersports Enthusiasts: Mykonos' beautiful beaches and clear waters attract tourists who enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and engaging in watersports activities like snorkeling, diving, and jet skiing.
Photography and Influencers: The picturesque landscapes, iconic windmills, and charming architecture attract photography enthusiasts and influencers seeking captivating backdrops for their content.

Overall, Mykonos is a destination that caters to a diverse audience, offering a blend of luxury, culture, nightlife, and natural beauty. The island's appeal lies in its ability to accommodate different interests and preferences, making it a top choice for travelers seeking an unforgettable experience in the Greek islands.

WHAT ARE THE MOST POPULAR GREEK ISLANDS

Greece is home to numerous beautiful islands, each offering its own unique charm and attractions. The most popular Greek islands, often frequented by tourists, include:

Santorini: Known for its stunning sunsets, white-washed buildings with blue-domed roofs, and picturesque caldera views. Santorini's dramatic landscapes and romantic ambiance make it a top choice for couples and honeymooners.
Mykonos: Famous for its vibrant nightlife, upscale beach clubs, luxury accommodations, and iconic windmills. Mykonos attracts party-goers, celebrities, and travelers seeking a trendy and lively atmosphere.
Crete: The largest Greek island with a rich history, diverse landscapes, and beautiful beaches. Crete offers a blend of historical sites, traditional villages, and vibrant cities like Heraklion and Chania.
Rhodes: Known for its medieval Old Town, ancient ruins, and beautiful beaches. Rhodes offers a mix of history, culture, and beach relaxation, attracting families and history enthusiasts.
Corfu: A lush green island with Venetian architecture, beautiful beaches, and a rich cultural heritage. Corfu appeals to nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and those seeking a more relaxed pace.
Paros: A charming island with traditional villages, beautiful beaches, and a vibrant nightlife scene. Paros is popular among young travelers and water sports enthusiasts.
Naxos: Known for its sandy beaches, ancient ruins, and scenic landscapes. Naxos offers a more authentic and laid-back Greek island experience.
Skiathos: A small but picturesque island with lush vegetation, crystal-clear waters, and lively beach bars. Skiathos attracts a mix of families, couples, and beach lovers.
Samos: An island with a rich history, scenic landscapes, and lovely beaches. Samos offers a more tranquil and unspoiled atmosphere, appealing to travelers seeking a quieter escape.
Zakynthos (Zante): Known for its famous Shipwreck Beach, turquoise waters, and loggerhead sea turtles. Zakynthos is a popular choice for nature enthusiasts and beach lovers.

These are just a few examples of the most popular Greek islands, but Greece has many more beautiful islands waiting to be explored, each offering a unique and unforgettable experience for travelers.