Just got back from a week long trip to Greece.

The Aegean Airlines ATH-JTR flight was almost full despite being low-season and I was glad I booked inadvance. It was very windy on that day and the take-off was the most scary I have ever experienced, being thrown on my seat from left to right and back to left again . Inflight service was also suspended due to bad weather. Landing in Santorini was relatively smooth despite a sand storm on the island.

I booked myself into the Thoxenia Hotel in Fira based on the good reviews on Tripadvisor. Though the hotel was relatively new, the view was not very good. Only 1 room had a clear view of the sea, while some had views of the roof of the shops opposite with the sea beyond. And despite booking for a sea-view room, I was given a room with 2 small windows, one looking out to a backyard and another into a common terrace which I have to go through the corridor to access. I had to really strain my eyes to catch a glimpse of the sea and the hotel insisted that it was a sea-view room ! Needless to say, I checked-out the next day and I will probably never trust reviews on Tripadvisor again

Most hotels in Fira were closed; and the only ones openned on the caldera were old, and the rooms dark and spooky .

By chance I spotted someone on the terrace of what looked like a very decent hotel on the caldera, and I found myself a new home for the next few days . Hotel Villa Renos was very nice; the rooms were clean and bright, and had been newly renovated, while the view was simply breathtaking. The host was extremely helpful and friendly, and the ingredients for my breakfast came from his farm ! I was so pleased with this hotel and being enchanted by the beauty of Santorini, I extended my stay by an extra night !

To make-up for not arriving in Santorini by ferry, I managed to take a boat trip to the volcano. The view of the island from the sea was incredible and very different from the top of the island itself. I was glad I stayed on the island for an extra day for the boats were not sailing on the first few days due to strong winds.

I had a wonderful time in Santorini and look forward to returning one day.
Once again I wish to thank all those who responded to my post.