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It’s that time of year again when you pack away your layers, pull out the sunblock, and start dreaming of far-flung locales, bronzed tans, and summer romances. With summer officially knocking on your door, it’s time to start planning your next holiday adventure. This year, it’s all about lazing around on the shores of the Mediterranean by day, sipping aperitifs on candle-lit terraces at sunset, and enjoying some wonderful culinary culture by night. For a summer of Greek Island hoping and Tuscan travels, we turned to Level Shoe District, the region’s leading luxury footwear retailer. As part of its Summer Odyssey campaign, Level boasts the perfect selection of summer-ready sandals and heels to take you through your adventures, the Sole Lounge to ensure your feet are beach-ready ahead of your travels, and a team of stylists who will show you how to make the most of your purchases.
Click through the galleries below to discover seven must-visit destinations this summer, from Mykonos’ pristine beaches and legendary nightlife to Portofino’s elegant shopping streets and charming terraces.
Calvi
Vacation like an in-the-know French insider when you venture to Calvi, Corsica to enjoy five miles of pristine beaches, historic sights, and traditional cuisine. It is uniquely situated on the edge of a UNESCO Marine World Heritage Site, with marine life that has to be seen to be believed. This small island in the Mediterranean sea is an ideal location for both out-of-the-way R&R and adventure.
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Akamas Peninsula
Cyprus is culturally situated at the crossroads between Greek, Roman, and Byzantine influence, and as such offers a myriad of cross-cultural experiences. The Akamas Peninsula, in the North-Western corner of the Island, is filled with culture that dates to prehistoric times, and is an ideal destination for those stricken with true wanderlust.
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Photo: Courtesy of Shutterstock
Calvi
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Photo: Courtesy of La Signoria
Calvi
Main Stay
With the sea on one side and mountains on the other, La Signoria is one of the most beautiful hotels in all of Corsica. A spectacular view is just the beginning of the amenities La Signoria has to offer. At this luxury resort, you’ll also find Spa Casanera, tennis courts, pools, and even a helipad.
In the quaint village of Pigna, not far from Corsica’s quiet coasts, lies Casa Musicale, a charming hotel that offers a beautiful terrace and traditional dining. Casa Musicale has long been an attraction of the musical crowd in Corsica, and is a slice of bohemian heaven for travelers and locals alike.
Tel: (+33) 4 9561 7731
Web: www.casa-musicale.org
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Photo: Courtesy of La Table de Bastien
Calvi
Dine Out
Hotel La Villa’s dinner-only restaurant, La Table de Bastien, earned a Michelin star for its outstanding Corsican cuisine, which transforms the island’s bountiful fruit and seafood offerings into mouthwatering dishes like langoustine with soy sauce and yuzu.
Tel: (+33) 4 9565 1010
Web: www.hotel-lavilla.com
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Photo: Courtesy of Shutterstock
Calvi
Day Trip
Visit the coast for a day at Algaiola beach, swim in the sapphire shore waters, or venture out onto the water in a glass-bottom boat for a breathtaking look at the pink volcanic rock that surrounds the island.
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Photo: Courtesy of Shutterstock
Calvi
Culture Club
The citadel, built in 1450 A.D., is the island’s most iconic attraction. A 30-minute walk to the citadel yields a spectacular view of the city, and the surrounding area is rich with nightlife and excitement.
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Calvi
What to Wear
Echo the hues of Corsica’s vibrant marinas at sunset with pops of aquamarine, jade, turquoise, and pink with these boho-chic wrap-arounds.
MSGM sandals, AED 1,160, Level Shoe District
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Calvi
What to Wear
For a day of lazing around the hotel, nothing says relaxation like this pair of Ann Demulemeester sandals.
Ann Demulemeester sandals, AED 2,670, Level Shoe District
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Calvi
What to Wear
A night of fine cuisine calls for equally fine footwear, like these white sandals with PVC details.
Nicholas Kirkwood sandals, AED 3,790, Level Shoe District
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Calvi
What to Wear
Whether you’re heading out to sea or walking the streets of the old citadel, make sure your feet are comfortably outfitted by opting for stylish sandals that won’t slip off your feet.
Ancient Greek Sandals sandals, AED 660, Level Shoe District
Mykonos, also known as The Island of the Winds, is a popular destination for jetsetters due to its curving coastlines, idyllic hillside villages, and beautiful beaches. Beyond the natural wonders of the island, Mykonos is a fashionable location that offers plenty of options in the way of shopping, nightlife (especially during high season), and fine dining.
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Photo: Courtesy of Shutterstock
Akamas Peninsula
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Photo: Courtesy of Anassa Hotel
Akamas Peninsula
Main Stay
Anassa Hotel blends the traditional charm of a Cypriot village with the amenities of a five-star luxury resort for a unique experience. The Mediterranean idles peacefully outside the door of your villa, down a small hillside that keeps visitation private. This idyllic oasis offers Roman-style spas, “farm fresh” restaurants, and more.
Tel: (+357) 26 888 000
Web: www.anassa.com.cy
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Photo: Courtesy of Shutterstock
Akamas Peninsula
Dine Out
This popular open-air restaurant is surrounded by fruit plantations and overlooks the Akamas Peninsula – two factors that lend Viklari Castle “the best view on the island”. Traditional Cypriot cuisine is served in the breathtaking setting, with souvla available daily.
Tel: (+357) 26 991 088
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Photo: Courtesy of Aphrodite Hills Resort
Akamas Peninsula
On Location
The Village Square at Aphrodite Hills Resort reflects the slow-paced lifestyle of a traditional Cypriot village. Throughout the year, the Village Square hosts a weekly Cyprus Fair, and is also home to private events throughout the summer.
Tel: (+357) 26 829000
Web: www.aphroditehills.com
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Photo: Courtesy of Shutterstock
Akamas Peninsula
Day Trip
Rent a boat for the day at the Latchi Watersports Centre, and go island hopping in the Akamas Peninsula. Find your way to St. George’s island, where Cyprus’ best diving destination is located, or sail around nearby Aphrodite’s Rock if true love is what you seek.
Thalassa Spa, located in the Anassa Hotel, brings to life ancient Roman traditions mixed with modern holistic approaches to healing and recuperation. Treat yourself to “Thalassotherapy”, which employs maritime elements (like seaweed and mud), or relax with one of Anassa’s signature treatments..
Tel: (+357) 26 888 000
Web: www.anassa.com.cy
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Akamas Peninsula
What to Wear
If you’re dining in a rustic, outdoors setting, nothing will guarantee both style and comfort like block-heel sandals.
Proenza Schouler sandals, AED 3,530, Level Shoe District
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Akamas Peninsula
What to Wear
These Aquazzura sandals are an elegant take on the gladiator trend, and perfect for the classic charm of the Anassa Hotel.
Aquazzura sandals, AED 2,250, Level Shoe District
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Akamas Peninsula
What to Wear
If you’re stepping out for an evening of culture, these Jason Wu sandals will look incredible with a simple maxi dress.
Jason Wu sandals, AED 3,470, Level Shoe District
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Akamas Peninsula
What to Wear
For a trip to the spa, channel its Greco-Romans progenitor with a pair of slip-on sandals that do not skimp on luxury.
Proenza Schouler sandals, AED 1,650, Level Shoe District
Portofino, one of the Italian Riviera’s most laudable destinations, is more than just a resort for the rich and famous. This charming fishing village boasts a breathtaking harbor rich with marine life, people-watching opportunities, and upscale boutiques. Take advantage of Portofino’s amazing array of seafood or visit the historic Castello Brown for a taste of Italian history during your stay.
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Photo: Courtesy of Shutterstock
Mykonos
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Photo: Courtesy of Belvedere Hotel
Mykonos
Main Stay
Through a courtyard draped in bougainvillea, travelers enter the 5-star luxury Belvedere Hotel only to be greeted by world-class cuisine from renowned Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, sensational spa treatments, the famed Belvedere Bar, and hundreds of other chic amenities.
Make a reservation for Niko’s Taverna before you even arrive on the island, as this popular restaurant is almost always busy. Besides its amazing seafood (just ask for the fish of the day), Niko’s is also known for its giant live pelican mascot, who is stationed nearby on the beach.
Tel: (+30) 2289 024320
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Mykonos
Beach Babe
Mykonos boasts some of the world’s best beach parties, which start early and last through the night. Business is booming at Nammos, a well-run beach and bar scene that boasts everything from yacht service and giant concerts to hot yoga classes and full-service restaurants. Jackie O at Super Paradise Beach is another great option if you’re looking to enjoy your vacation adventures seaside.
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Mykonos
Chill Out
Mykonos has earned the nickname “Capri of Greece” because of its numerous beaches, of which there are many types, but the private beaches of the island, like Ornos Beach, hold the most potential when it comes to relaxing.
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Photo: Courtesy of The Hippie Fish
Mykonos
Sundowners
Island living is good living, and The Hippie Fish is one of Mykonos’ best places to relax after sundown. The laidback atmosphere, traditional cuisine, and delicious sushi are only outdone by the beautiful setting and beach access that The Hippie Fish offers.
Who ever said that you couldn’t be devastatingly elegant in a pair of flats? These ones from Etro are perfect for a tête-a-tête seafood dinner with your beau.
Etro sandals, price upon request, Level Shoe District
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Mykonos
What to Pack
Nothing says ‘Greece’ like knee-high gladiators, so don this pair when you’re lounging around your hotel villa – and anywhere else for that matter.
Ancient Greek Sandals sandals, AED 1,390, Level Shoe District
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Mykonos
What to Wear
Arrive at the hottest beach parties on the island in style when you hop off your quad bike in these Céline espadrilles.
Céline espadrilles, AED 2,150, Level Shoe District
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Mykonos
What to Wear
For the evenings, respect Mykonos’ unspoken rule of only wearing flats, but opt for a more luxurious version with these metal-embellished Ivy Kirzhner sandals.
Ivy Kirshner sandals, AED 1,800, Level Shoe District
During ancient times, Athens was the center of the world, and the bustling city has transformed into a modern metropolis in the present day. You simply cannot get more Greek than Athens – it’s the location of the Acropolis and the Parthenon, after all. Spend a week exploring the many historic sites, sip coffee around the corner from where Socrates debated philosophy, or scrap the history and head to the beach if you’re in the mood for fun in the sun.
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Photo: Courtesy of Shutterstock
Portofino
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Photo: Courtesy of Hotel Splendido
Portofino
Main Stay
Hotel Splendido overlooks the harbor, with a view that pictures simply cannot do justice to. The bustling port lies below, but serenity will surround you in this quiet, luxury hotel. If you’re drawn to the activity outside the hotel’s walls, allow the concierge to arrange a motorboat rental or, if you’d prefer to relax, try a treatment at the notable day spa.
If the upscale boutiques in Portofino don’t hold your interest, we suggest chartering a yacht to Forte Dei Marmi, where the “flea” market itself is upscale enough to compete, but with much better prices. Visitors flock to the town in droves on Sundays and Wednesdays for the market.
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Photo: Courtesy of Shutterstock
Portofino
Retail Therapy
With great wealth comes great shopping, and Portofino is nothing if not one of the best (and wealthiest) destinations for such pursuits on the Italian Riviera. Head to Loro Piana for luxurious cashmere knits, Spinnaker for current trends, and Calzoleria Mingo Portofino for the Holy Grail of artisan-crafted sandals.
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Photo: Courtesy of Taverna Del Marinaio
Portofino
Dine Out
Ask around about the city’s best seafood and the answer will be unanimous: Taverna Del Marinaio. Located along the harbor, this elegant restaurant is a fine-dining experience you’ll be bragging about for years to come.
Tel: (+39) 0185 269 103
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Photo: Courtesy of Shutterstock
Portofino
Sundowners
As you might imagine, sunset in Portofino is breathtaking. To maximize your experience, charter a sunset cruise via the Hotel Splendido concierge, and enjoy champagne and canapés along with the exquisite sky.
The Italian Riviera calls for Old-School elegance, so swap your sandals for these Oscar de la Renta gold-embellished slip-ons.
Oscar de la Renta mules, AED 2,240, Level Shoe District
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Portofino
What to Wear
The perforated leather makes these Dolce Vita moccasins perfect for staying cool aboard your yacht.
Dolce Vita moccasins, AED 340, Level Shoe District
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Portofino
What to Wear
If you’re heading to the harbor for dinner, opt for these whimsical Sophia Webster pumps, which will look perfect when paired with a ladylike midi dress.
Sophia Webster pumps, AED 2,350, Level Shoe District
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Portofino
What to Wear
As the sun sets into the Mediterranean, leaving behind it a breathtaking view, you’ll need to try hard not to be distracted by the sparkle on your feet.
Giambattista Valli sandals, AED 3,210, Level Shoe District
In the 1950s, the tiny fishing village of St. Tropez was transformed into one of the world’s most glamorous destinations when it was used as the location for And God Created Woman, starring Brigitte Bardot. Even now, it receives more than 100,000 visitors a day in the summer months – a good portion of whom are famous and include Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Bono, and many other A-listers.
