Mykonos: Openhearted Island

Proud host from Mykonos, Nikos is very fond of his city/island and you'll get a glimpse of that in his interview. Mykonos sure is one of the most rated and popular gay travel destinations, but Nikos tips will just make you miss more this little heaven! You don't really need a reason to go back... it's Mykonos, just go! 

What makes your city a favorite gay destination?

Mykonos is a beautiful small island full of heavenly beaches and with a great nightlife! So this alone, explains a lot. If you add that gay nightlife here started in the early 70's, then you understand why Mykonos is an ideal gay destination.

The main town, "Hora" as we call it, is a traditional settlement really old and pedestrian from side to side. All summer long, during day and night, boys and girls from all over the world, walk around town, exploring the small alleys, getting lost in the labyrinth, flirting with each other! And locals are mixed up so well with us, nothing looks strange here. Everyone is free to enjoy, relax or party! If you haven't yet been here, for sure you should come!

What is the best gay event that takes place in your city?

XLSIOR is the main gay event that each year, about the end of August, takes place in many clubs, bars, beaches and pools around the island, with 2 or more events every day for seven days.

That week is crazy! If you plan to visit during that time, better to pre-buy your pass, it is cheaper and easier.

What is your favorite gay establishment to grab a bite for lunch? a nice dinner?

Many places to choose from... Since I have to make a choice, "Jackie O' beach" at super paradise is the one. Amazing food, party feeling and a joyful afternoon drag show! Not exactly cheap though.

Best gay bar for a cheap beer?

"Lola" is my favorite starting point for a beer and not only… Cocktails are amazing here too. And Zyl is my favorite bartender! If you go you will understand…

Best gay bar for a refreshing cocktail?

Elysium hotel with the most beautiful view of town and with a fantastic cabaret show every night serves tasty daiquiris, full of fruits and rum! You'll probably visit more than once!

Which famous gay person is from your city?

Billy Bo, a beautiful man, a pop idol, a designer. Try to find his touching and compelling story, a fairy-tale, set in the 80's, without the happy ending. A movie about his life was announced lately.

Ready to go dancing--what is the best gay dance club?

In town near the famous "Paraportiani" church, there are the two most interesting clubs "Jackie O town" and "Babylon". One next to the other with people going from one to the other, drag shows, go-go boys, sometimes waves literally crushing all over, makes the scenery magical!

Which gay bar offers the best happy hour on a Wednesday?

"Studio 54" and not only on a Wednesday!  Disco decoration and feeling, also a nice show every night.

Where to start a gay tour in your home city?

"Elia" beach is where it should all start. It is one of the gay beaches, big, cosmopolitan, easy-going and with a really nice beach bar. At the left side there is a big nudist part. Sun, sea, sand, handsome men, what else is there to ask? If you are more of an urban person, I would say Little Venice (like Venice but little... ha-ha) or the Windmills, the most significant feature of town!

Best place to socialize with the local gay community?

Local gay’s favorite is "Porta" bar! Small and kind of hidden… Super DJ set by local DJs every night!

Best place to be surrounded by the local gays?

All around town! Bar hopping is what I do!

Town is pedestrian, small alleys, traditional Cycladic architecture, white and blue, so easy to get lost, so nice to explore! So many gay bars and clubs, why not check them all out?

How gay-friendly is your home city?

You will not believe of how many rainbow flags you'll get to see in such a small island!! And I would say that the rest of the island is gay friendly. Locals are so open hearted!

A gay place for brunch on weekends?

"Liberty" serves the best breakfast. Located on the peripheral road over town. But for a more authentic experience visit the bakery in the Ano Mera or Ornos areas and get supplies for the beach (traditional spinach pie or cheese pie)

What is gay life like in Mykonos?

Being gay, living here is totally un-stressful. The local society is built and grown side by side with gay life. Straights with gays with lesbians with bisexual with transgender totally accepted and harmonically having fun together! As it should be.

What are your favorite gay venues in Mykonos?

Definitely "Cavo Paradiso"! Big, open air, over the cliffs... Make sure to stay till the first daylight! Chilling experience! Many gay events but not only☺