Chios
of today has all the necessary facilities of a modern resort for those
seeking an active and cosmopolitan type of holiday, both by day and at
night. Nevertheless, there are also some quiet corners for those who favour
a more peaceful vacation.
 Both
in the capital of Chios and in the provinces, one can sit at the quiet,
picturesque coffee shops and drink the famous "soumada" which is made of
almonds, the local sweet "masticha" and the liquor of the same name. The
island's tavernas and restaurants serve mainly fresh fish and seafood,
cooked in traditional ways, like fried smelt with onions and "swimming
sardines". The ouzo places of Chios, offer local ouzo and "souma", a strong
drink made of figs, together with tasty titbits and local "hortokeftedes"
and pies. A walk to lovely Pirgi should be combined with lunch at the village's
only taverna which is famous for its delicious onion stew. There
are also restaurants which serve international cuisine
The
cost of dinner for one, not including drinks, start 6 Euro
Mastic
The
Wounded Tree
If
a trademark were to be established for Chios, then surely it would be the
mastic
tree. It is a gift and at the same time a curse since it has
always been the bone of contention for conquerors. This evergreen tree
called Schinos, belongs to the botanical family Pistachia. The average
growth of the tree ranges from 6 to 10 feet tall and it begins to produce
mastic at the age of 5 to 6 years old. This amazing tree thrives
within the 21 mastic villages of southern Chios only.
Citrus
Fruits
Chios
is called "myrovolos", meaning fragrant. That should not surprise you,
since the fragrances of Kambos surround you from the very first moment
you begin strolling through the green nucleus of the island. Narrow streets,
high stone walls, thick, green leaves will emerge everywhere and
surround you with their precious aroma.
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