Spas, Lighthouses, Feral Cats, and Another Change in Our Itinerary: Enjoying Our First Full Day in Mykonos, But Not Our Last

(Our group photo at the historic lighthouse.)

We did not choose a motto for this trip, but I think a motto chose us: Have fun and be flexible! If this journey has taught us anything, it is this: a fun and flexible disposition helps you navigate the detours of life.

Today began at a more merciful pace. With breakfast scheduled for 8:00 a.m., many in our group welcomed the rare gift of sleeping in. After several early mornings, it felt like a small Sabbath for the soul. Coffee lingered a little longer, conversations stretched a little deeper, and no one seemed in a hurry.

By 10:30, we gathered in the lobby to meet Emily for a three-hour bus tour of Mykonos. Not everyone joined the excursion, however. Some had already scheduled spa treatments at the Semeli Hotel—their time for rest, renewal, and relaxation. Others chose to stay behind and wander the village at their own pace, discovering hidden corners and quiet moments and the only Starbucks on the island.

For those of us on the tour, the island unfolded beautifully before us. We visited the historic Armenistis Lighthouse, perched above the sea with sweeping views that seemed to stretch into eternity. This lighthouse was occupied by the Nazis in WWII. We also stopped at a peaceful monastery, explored two stunning beaches, and paused at scenic overlooks where the sunlight danced across the Aegean.

(Monastery/Church)

Our final stop offered a clear view toward Delos, the sacred island of mythology and history, even now an active archeological site. With not a cloud in the sky, the photos were clear and breathtaking.

As Solomon reminds us, there is beauty in simply receiving the day as it comes.

After the tour, the group divided once more. Some returned to the hotel for a leisurely afternoon, while others—Amanda and I included—made our way into the seaside village for lunch. Along with four others, we enjoyed a wonderful meal at Rouvera, a familiar favorite from one of our previous trips. There’s something comforting about returning to a place where good memories were made, and for sure, the burgers and fries didn’t disappoint.

Then came the latest plot twist.

Tomorrow, we had planned to take the ferry to Santorini for an overnight stay. But as we returned from lunch, Emily shared the news: ferry service had been canceled due to 50 mph winds. Once again, our itinerary shifted.

We were faced with two options: return to Athens tomorrow afternoon or remain in Mykonos for an extra day of rest and exploration. After some consideration, we chose to stay.

While I regret that our group, already seasoned by cancellations and changes, will miss Santorini, I am grateful for what this decision provides: a slower pace, rest, and the gift of being fully present where we are.

There’s an old beatitude that says, “Blessed are the flexible, for they shall not be bent out of shape.”

And tomorrow brings unexpected blessings. It is Greek Independence Day, which means we will experience a local parade and even have the opportunity to attend a service in a Greek Orthodox Church here on the island. What we “lost” in one experience may very well be replaced with something memorable and meaningful.

(One of the harbors and beaches we visited.)

This trip, more than any I can remember, has been marked by canceled flights, rerouted plans, and unexpected detours. And yet, our group has responded with remarkable grace, humor, and flexibility.

We’ve also had our share of “adventures.”

One traveler took a tumble earlier in the week while out for a run. Today, another slipped near the lighthouse and injured her hand and knee—thankfully no fractures, though she’ll be sore for a few days. And then… there are the cats.

Mykonos is home to many charming—but very feral—cats. Despite repeated warnings (which may or may not have been heeded… Amanda may or may not have led the petting brigade), one cat decided today that enough was enough and swiped back, leaving a scratch as a reminder that not all creatures welcome affection.

Let the record show: a moratorium on cat petting has now been officially declared.

Still, even in these moments, there is laughter.

Because life—like this journey—is full of surprises.

We set out for Ephesus, Patmos, Rhodes, and Santorini… and instead, we stay in Mykonos. We planned tightly… and received loosely. We expected one thing… and were given another.

And perhaps that is the deeper lesson.

Sometimes the detour becomes the destination.

Sometimes the interruption becomes the invitation.

And sometimes, the story you didn’t plan is the one you’ll remember most.

So tonight, we rest—not at the end of our time in Mykonos, but somewhere in the middle of a story still being written.

And tomorrow? We’ll embrace whatever comes next.

For now, all is well in Mykonos.