If you are ever looking for a great getaway that is a rich experience but without the hype the Greek island of Spetses is for you. It is a small island in the Saronic Sea that is a few minutes south of the Pelopenesian peninsula (or approximately 3 hours southeast of Athens. It has beautiful beaches, some of which have tavernas right there! There is a multitude of shops, tavernas, and eateries. I was very satisfied at any location that I dined at. The history of the island is amazing. It never succumbed to the Ottoman occupation. One of the leaders of the Greek drive for independence in 1821 hails from Spetses. Her name is Laskarina Bouboulina. One of the treasures of Spetses is an ampitheatre that is located a short hike up the hillside, not far from the main harbor. It is in an intimate setting with forest behind it and a view of the sea and peninsula behind the stage. I was there in the summer of 2004 and have been longing to go back ever since I’ve been home. The only thing I’d do differently next time would be spend more than the three weeks I was there. Spetses is a great place for everyone.