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Mykonos, Greece

Chances are, you will run across Petros the Pelican... not the original but one of his successors. The enormous white Petros has been the official mascot of this island since the first one survived a storm in 1954. But while that folksy touch is fine, Mykonos is known as the most cosmopolitan of the Greek islands in part because large numbers of artists make their home here.

You also can't help but notice the plump white-washed windmills which date back to the 16^th century, when the island was a major sea trade-route and the windmills generated power. One of the most famous architectural structures in Greece is found here, the Paraportiani Church. It's a rounded cave-like, white-washed, stucco edifice started in 1475, and it still decorates all the postcards.

A common custom for Mykonos' visitors at sunset is to take in the view from the Theoxenia Hotel (30 228 902 2230), which is one of the few luxury hotel properties on the island. (Most of the truly wealthy live in private villas.)

Mykonos is best known for its bars, discos and nightclubs, but they go in and out of fashion with the seasons. Not all restaurants stay open in the winter but the Appaloosa Bar (30 228 902 7086) year-round serves up some familiar dishes such as chicken wings, nachos and burritos. A popular waterfront restaurant is the Alegro Café-Bar, which is best known for its breakfasts (30 228 902 5030).