Gathering Details
We are so excited to welcome you to Chios. To help you plan your journey for Ion's baptism, we've answered some common travel questions below.
When should we arrive for the ceremony?
Times TBD
What should we wear for an August island event?
Think island elegance. Greek summers are hot, so we recommend breathable linens and cotton. Since we will be outdoors on historic stone paths, please consider block heels or stylish flats rather than thin stilettos.
Is this a kid-friendly celebration?
Very much so! Ion is the star, but he wants his friends there too. We will have dedicated high chairs, kid-friendly meals, and plenty of space for families to enjoy the garden reception together.
Can I invite a guest to join?
Plus-ones are welcome if noted on your RSVP. Please ensure you register everyone by name so we can finalize our seating and catering.
What is the schedule for the three-day event?
Our celebration spans the weekend: a sunset welcome dinner on Friday, the ceremony and lunch feast on Saturday, and a beachside farewell brunch on Sunday morning to wrap up our time together.
Will you be providing shuttle services?
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Travel & Accommodation
Prepare for your Aegean adventure. We have gathered essential advice on reaching Chios and selecting the best local stays for Ion’s special baptism weekend.
How do we get to Chios island?
You can fly directly to Chios (JKH) from Athens in under an hour via Aegean or Sky Express. For a classic Greek experience, ferries depart daily from Piraeus port; the high-speed option takes about 6 hours.
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Check out our Getting There & Around section
Where do you suggest we stay?
We recommend the fragrant citrus groves of Kambos for a boutique feel, or the seaside hotels of Karfas for beach access. Both are central to our venues and offer a beautiful taste of local hospitality.
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Check out our Accommodation Guide
How far apart are the main sites?
Chios is surprisingly large, but the airport, the main town, and our celebration venues are mostly clustered within a 15-25 minute drive. Traffic is light, but allow extra time for the narrow village lanes.
Should we arrange a rental car?
Yes, we strongly advocate for a rental car to discover the medieval 'Mastiha' villages and quiet coves at your own pace. Taxis are reliable but can be very busy during the peak August season.
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When is the best time to book?
August 2026 will be exceptionally busy. To secure your preferred boutique hotel or choice of vessel, we suggest finalizing your flights and lodging by early spring to avoid high prices or limited availability.
Island Wisdom
Practical tips for your Aegean getaway.
What is the best way to explore Chios?
To truly see the island's medieval 'Mastic' villages, we suggest renting a vehicle. Taxis generally require booking in advance, especially during the busy August season. Several international and local car rental offices are located right at Chios Airport (JKH) and the main port.
How hot will it be during the baptism?
August is peak summer. Expect bright, sunny skies with temperatures between 28-32°C. While the meltemi sea breeze offers relief, we recommend staying hydrated and always having sun protection when wandering through the sunny cobblestone streets.
Are credit cards widely used in Chios?
The currency is the Euro (€). Most restaurants and hotels accept major credit cards, but we recommend carrying some cash for small purchases at local 'peripteros' (kiosks), remote beach bars, or when buying fresh local produce and authentic mastic products.
What should we know about local customs?
Greeks are very hospitable. For the religious ceremony, please ensure shoulders and knees are covered as a sign of respect. When entering a Greek home or a small local shop, a warm 'Kalimera' (Good morning) is the traditional way to greet those around you.
Is it easy to communicate in English?
You will find that English is widely spoken in hotels and popular dining spots. Learning a few words like 'Parakalo' (Please) or 'Yiasas' (Hello) will surely bring a smile to the locals' faces and enhance your beautiful summer experience in Chios.