The Best Beaches in Europe - Thailand Vs Greece For Your Honeymoon
Greece is a European country that’s well-known for its ancient history and world-famous architecture. It also has some of the best beaches in Europe.
While Greece is often swamped by tourists, there are still plenty of quiet, not-so-touristy beaches to enjoy. Here are some of the best Greece beaches to visit for a romantic honeymoon vacation.
1. Romance
Whether you choose Thailand or Greece for your honeymoon, a beach getaway is guaranteed to make your trip special. These two romantic destinations have a lot to offer in terms of beautiful beaches and vibrant cultures. However, it is important to consider your priorities before you decide on the one for you. Let us explore the benefits of each destination to help you determine which one is a better choice for you.
Thailand’s beaches are renowned for their white sand and crystal clear waters. They’re also a great place to relax and unwind with your partner. You can enjoy a range of activities on the beach such as swimming, snorkeling, and diving. You can even take a boat trip to explore the nearby islands and hidden coves.
In addition to the beach, there are many other romantic things to do in Thailand. For example, you can visit the historical town of Phippipi on Koh Samui. The town has a number of charming cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy some wine or coffee with your loved one.
The Dodecanese Islands are a good option for couples looking for a mix of tradition and tourism. You can avoid the crowds of tourists and cruise ship passengers at the main resort areas. You can also explore the picturesque towns of Astypalea, Symi, and Rhodes for a taste of local culture.
The island of Kos is a great place to visit for couples looking for some romance. It is home to Ikos Aria, a 5-star all-inclusive hotel. It offers a unique ‘Infinite Lifestyle’ programme that includes Michelin-starred food, top-shelf spirits, and 24-hour room service. You can also find a range of romantic activities in Kos including sunset sailing and a relaxing spa experience. The isolated Shipwreck Beach on the northwest coast is another great romantic spot that offers spectacular views and an opportunity to meet some native loggerhead sea turtles.
It is impossible to get acquainted with the sights of Thailand in one day, as well as in a week, but you can see the maximum number of new places with the help of a rented car at one of the country's airports. For example, in Bangkok airport you can rent a car from 17 euros per day, in Koh Samui airport - from 18 euros per day.
2. Adventure
With its otherworldly craggy limestone formations that seem precariously balanced on the turquoise sea, as well as coral reefs teeming with vibrant marine life to be explored by snorkel and fin, Thailand’s beaches continue to lure beach lovers in droves. Even the most popular islands and stretches of coastline are often swamped with tourists, though you can always find quieter, more authentic pockets, if you know where to look.
In Greece, there are also plenty of stunning beaches to explore. For example, you can visit the famous Shipwreck Beach in Zakynthos, which features a gorgeous shipwreck and scenic views all around. You can also visit the Simos Beach, which is one of the most popular beaches in the country due to its incredibly calm and crystal clear waters. This makes it perfect for families with kids or elderly people who want to enjoy a relaxing time in the water.
Another thing that Greece is known for is its delicious Mediterranean cuisine, which is loved all over the world. Many tourists come to Greece only to taste its mouthwatering cuisine. If you want to make the most out of your trip, consider booking a romantic cruise that will allow you to visit multiple Greek islands and historic cities in a short amount of time.
Another reason why you should book a tour of Thailand’s beaches is because it’s more affordable than a trip to Greece. This is especially true if you travel during the off season when prices are lower. Plus, if you don’t like crowds, you can always visit the less-popular Thailand beaches in the north of the country. Nevertheless, both countries have their charms and they should be visited at least once in a lifetime.
3. Nightlife
Although both Greece and Thailand offer an after-dark scene, the latter has a more lively one. This is especially true of the islands, where the nightlife is as much a draw as the beaches, warm people and fresh cuisines.
Some of these beaches are famous for their day parties where a master of ceremonies clad in an elephant G-string entertains a crowd of bathing suits and bikinis dancing to head-banging music until the sun goes down. You’ll also find plenty of big clubs and edgy cocktail bars if you’re in the mood for a more sedate scene.
Popular Thai islands and stretches of beach have become overcrowded and Westernized since they became a hotspot, but you can still find serene and authentic beach spots. Maya Bay, the cove made famous in the Leonardo DiCaprio film The Beach has had to close due to mass tourism, but it will reopen after a clean-up and some time for the ecosystem to recover.
In addition to big clubs and swanky bar lounges, you’ll find raucous street markets and gaudy go-go bars in Patong on the west coast of Phuket. In Chiang Mai, look to the Nimman Road area for a plethora of beer halls and reggae bars. There’s even a few nighclubs in the city of Bangkok for a more laid-back experience. In terms of budget, Thailand is less expensive than most other well-known honeymoon destinations such as Hawaii and the Maldives. This makes it a great choice for couples who want to spend more of their vacation indulging in activities such as surfing and snorkeling. The Greek island of Ios, meanwhile, is a party-lovers paradise that offers everything from pulsing clubs to a buzzy scene at the beach.
4. Culture
Unlike the non-stop buzz of Thailand, Greece’s pristine shorelines are often completely secluded. You can easily find a tranquil hideaway where you can enjoy sunsets and sunrises in peace and quiet.
In addition to crystalline waters, Greece boasts a vibrant culture and fascinating cuisine. Whether you’re interested in Eastern spirituality, street markets or ancient temples, there are plenty of things to see and do.
If you and your partner are looking for a more cultural honeymoon experience, Greece is the better option. Its islands are known for their stunning views and luxurious villas, while its culture is rich, colorful, and diverse. The Greeks also value their traditions and are tolerant of different beliefs. However, some locals can have a negative attitude towards foreigners, especially if they believe you’re mocking their customs.
Located on the north side of Milos, Sarakiniko beach has a lunar-like appearance thanks to its white volcanic rocks. The water here is calm and shallow, which makes it ideal for families with kids or older people. You can relax on the sandy beach and enjoy friendly conversations while admiring the unique landscape.
Compared to Thailand, Greece is much more expensive. Especially for newlyweds, it’s important to consider the cost of your honeymoon vacation. Greece’s islands are more expensive than those in Thailand, and its beaches are generally more crowded with tourists. Moreover, its culture is more complicated and requires more respect from tourists. For example, you should never show disrespect to the king or buddhist monks. It’s an offense that could land you in trouble. However, if you’re willing to take a little more risk and want a romantic and relaxing honeymoon, then Greece is a better choice than Thailand.
5. Budget
Greece’s islands are a popular destination for couples and friends looking to soak up some rays. The beaches are beautiful, but be prepared for crowds of people and expensive accommodations. Luckily, it’s possible to find a beach away from the main tourist areas, and you can spend days in solitude while still enjoying your vacation.
If you want to save money at the beaches, consider visiting in the shoulder season (April to early June or September). This is the best time to see Greek islands without the summer rush and high prices. The weather is warm, but not hot like the peak of summer, and rains are typically short bursts rather than days-long downpours that cancel activities and prevent island access.
Another way to save is by renting a moped or scooter instead of a car, especially if you are staying on one island for a while. This is cheaper than renting a car and allows you to quickly get around the smaller streets of the islands and towns.
Depending on the island, there are many affordable activities to keep you busy. You can take a free honey bee tour, an olive oil tour and tasting, or even a full-day cycle tour for only $24. You can also purchase combined tickets at most historical attractions to save money on admission fees.
In addition, most of the locals speak English very well. This makes communication with the locals easy and stress-free, although you may find that they have mixed feelings about foreigners – admiring them for their beauty and style, yet also wondering “why are those foreigners so strange?”. In any case, be friendly and polite, and you will likely receive a warm welcome from the locals.