EBD: Greece’s Antipaxos, Crete, Corfu Among Europe’s Safest Islands for 2021

Balos Lagoon, Crete. Photo source: Incredible Crete

The Greek islands of Antipaxos, Crete and Corfu are on the list of the “European Safest Islands 2021” that was recently released by the European Best Destinations (EBD) organization.

The list includes a total of 12 islands in Europe, that were selected based on several factors: the number of Covid-19 cases, the implementation of health measures by local authorities and the recognition of vaccination certificates.

Furthermore, the list includes destinations that do not require a quarantine for travelers who present a negative Covid-19 test or have been vaccinated.

Madeira in Portugal tops the EBD list due to the country’s successful vaccination program for tourism industry professionals.

Greece’s Antipaxos Crete and Corfu rank fourth, sixth and eighth respectively.

Antipaxos

Antipaxos island. Photo © Facebook – Greek Islands

According to EBD, Antipaxos is a paradise island with fine white sandy beaches, crystal- clear waters and a population of only 20 permanent residents.

“Antipaxos is the perfect secret island for a Covid free vacation this summer,” the organization says.

During the day, visitors can enjoy the white sandy beaches of Vrika or the pebble sands of Voutoumi and Mesovrika, easily accessible by water taxi from the port of Gaios in Paxos.

Furthermore, EBD refers to the island’s vineyards and local wine as a “pure pleasure after a day of idleness”.

Crete

Photo Source: Municipality of Chania

Less affected by the Covid virus than many regions of Europe, “Crete has put in place simple and effective health measures to welcome travelers this summer,” EBD says.

The organization is advising travelers to visit Chania’s Venetian Harbor, Heraklion and its temples, Elafonisi and its pink sand beaches, Vai Beach and its crystal-clear waters, the Samaria Gorge, Rethymnon’s Old Town and the famous “Balos Lagoon”.

Corfu

Corfu, Old town. Photo Source: Visit Greece / M. Mitzithropoulos

Corfu is one of the paradise European destinations which has been relatively preserved from Covid-19.

EBD is proposing to potential travelers to discover Corfu’s rich history; rest on its paradise beaches; taste its wine and virgin olive oil and treat themeselves to unique experiences such as a private Corfu full-day wine tasting excursion or a five-hour private Corfu & Achillion Palace tour.

1. Madeira, Madeira Islands – Portugal
2. Porto Santo, Madeira Islands – Portugal
3. Malta
4. Antipaxos Island – Greece
5. Corvo Island, The Azores – Portugal
6. Crete Island – Greece
7. Flores, The Azores – Portugal
8. Corfu Island – Greece
9. La Gomera – Canary Islands
10. Korcula – Croatia
11. Menorca – Spain
12. Cyprus