Why I'm Obsessed with Cali Mykonos

Image courtesy of Cali Mykonos

Love at first sight very much exists in the travel industry. How do I know? Because of Cali Mykonos, a secluded Aegean escape.

This contemporary-chic resort was boasts an A+ location, a chill vibe, locally sourced cuisine and an ethos inspired by nature. Indeed, Cali Mykonos checks all the boxes.

Read on to learn more about why I love Cali Mykonos. Then, connect with me to plan and book your trip.

Cali Mykonos' location is perfect

Image courtesy of Cali Mykonos

Mykonos' reputation precedes it, but the island can actually be a great option for those of us who aren't as into the party scene. Cali Mykonos sits on an idyllic cliffside in Kalafati, a tranquil beach town in the southeastern part of the island. It's far enough from the busier parts of Mykonos so that you can truly unwind, but not so far as to put Mykonos' nightlife out of the question. Even better, Cali's private beach means you can enjoy the Aegean Sea minus the crowds, a rarity on the island.

Everything about the design is intentional (and so chic)

Image courtesy of Cali Mykonos

You'll immediately fall in love when you see Cali — the warm minimalism, the varying textures, the local greenery, the serpentine infinity pool. You'll fall even more deeply when you learned the "why" behind their astute aesthetic decisions.

Everything is designed with nature in mind. Plant-covered "green roofs" provide natural insulation and keep rooms cool. Local, sustainable materials comprise the hotel's sleek architecture, blurring the boundary between indoors and outdoors. Water is sourced from natural springs. There's even a reason why salt water fills the pool: it preserves the island's limited supply of fresh water.

Cali has also received internationally recognized certifications such as the EU Ecolabel and ISO 14001, both of which signify sustainable practices, responsible waste management and a dedication to maximum resource efficiency. Here, luxury does not come at the expense of the environment, and I'm here for it.

The food at Cali Mykonos is reason enough to visit (and never leave)

Image courtesy of Cali Mykonos

It's no surprise Cali's sustainable ethos extends to its gastronomy. Ingredients are locally and meticulously sourced, and a zero-waste locavore philosophy reigns supreme. It's farm-to-table-plus.

Start the day with a poolside breakfast of sweet and savory fare: omelets, pancakes, local jams, freshly baked breads. During the day, the open-air pool bar offers nourishing, satisfying Mediterranean dishes and light bites (mezze, fresh seafood, hearty sandwiches, allll the local veg). There's also a sushi bar, serving up local seafood as well as Japanese delicacies. (And I'm eagerly anticipating the forthcoming Lounge & Juice Bar, for healthy smoothies and snacks.)

The evenings transform Cali's dreamy outdoor space into a fine-dining restaurant. Start the night with an expertly crafted cocktail — Cali's mixologists are unmatched. For dinner, savor local fish, the best Greek produce and artisanal products (the olive oil's to die for), all of which are given the gourmet treatment.

Cali Mykonos makes wellness fun and easy

Image courtesy of Cali Mykonos

Although it doesn't explicitly brand itself as such, Cali makes for an excellent wellness retreat. The in-room massages are magical, and a full-on spa — complete with a hammam, an infrared sauna plus an ice room and steam room — will be opening soon.

Take a yoga class in your suite, by the pool or on the beach. Keep up with your routine in the modern gym. Head to the reformer-equipped Pilates studio for a guided session. Expert trainers and teachers are all available to give you exactly what you need.

Fora Perks:

• $100 hotel / resort credit.

• Welcome amenities.

• One complimentary beach club boat transfer.

• Breakfast daily.

• Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.