Given that as I write this, February 14th is but a small handful of days away – and despite the fact I’m generally about as romantic as a cup of coffee – I thought I’d poke the Destination Guide to see what was going on by way of photogenic spots leaning towards the romantic. Among them I found Island of Kalokairi, a name that for some reason rang a bell, although I wasn’t entirely sure why, so off I hopped on what turned out to be a pleasing series of visits.
Of course, those who are fans of the film Mama Mia, the name is likely familiar as having temporarily been bestowed onto the very real Greek islands of Skopelos and Skiathos so that between them, they might represent the film’s major setting. This is probably why the region’s name rang a bell for me; I’d endured a portion of that film over Christmas (and still shudder at the thought of Pierce Brosnan’s brutal slaying of Abba’s SOS). However, for those – like me – who shudder at the thought of that film, fear not; kalokairi here is used as intended, being the Greek for “summer” (as in “island of summer”).
The work of Ella.Marie (0o0EllaMarie0o0), the region is – in keeping with its name – a summertime haven and a place where romance might flow and where those already involved with one another can express themselves over champagne or by sitting by peaceful waters. For explorers and photographers, meanwhile, it is a place for wandering, taking pictures and for appreciating its natural beauty, with the hills of offshore islands and the nearby region of Prem, also held by Ella.Marie and her SL partner, Mike Chandra (MauiMike). A private setting on the ground level, this is also home to their art galleries and businesses, of which more anon.
Island of Kalokairi is itself split into two low-lying isles linked by a single bridge spanning the water channel between them. The northern isle is home the the region’s Landing Point, located within a large greenhouse-like structure. From here, a sea of flowers flows over the grasslands, encouraging visits to drift out into the open and start their explorations. This greenhouse is balanced by circular one on the southern island, the home to dancing and music. Between them, the these two greenhouses form the only enclosed structures within the region.
Between these two greenhouses is a richness of pastoral and natural beauty awaiting discovery. Sheep and deer wander and graze, rabbits play and butterflies weave and fly, whilst cranes and herons keep an eye on the channel’s water, awaiting an unwary fish swimming out from under the water lilies, possibly disturbed by frogs or swans. All of this makes for peaceful wandering and well and multiple opportunities for photography.
Whilst the greenhouses are only two enclosed structures on the land, they are not alone; close to the circular greenhouse is an open-air deck dancing and event space. A further place for dancing can be found on the northern island, a short walk from the Landing Point and surrounded by the poles of a large tent. In addition, white pianos scattered around the landscape further the sense that this is a centre of music as well as romance.
Four decks can be found stretching out over the the surrounding waters. Three offer places to sit and socialise, the fourth is screened by trees and offers a place of meditative retreat for those seeking peace and an sense of tranquillity. A large barge is additionally moored close to south isle’s round greenhouse; it forms a wedding venue, with details provided by the sign alongside the boarding ramp.
Kalokairi Where the sun always shines the blue sea glitters and nature blooms, capture its vibrant sunsets whilst dancing in the Ancient Ballroom or the outdoor Venue under the stars, Life is always better on the Island.
Kalokairi About Land
Throughout all of this are scattered places to sit in addition to the decks noted above; from metal chairs with side tables offering pink champagne to cosy sofas and floating basket seats and benches and rocking chairs. All are just a short and pleasant walk away – or, for those with a wearable horse – a little ride away.
Earlier I mentioned the businesses over the neighbouring region. One of these is Simcaster, the couple’s streaming service – complete with plenty of advice for those wishing to stream audio and / or video in-world. A demonstration – if that’s the right word – of the streaming capabilities Mike offers can be heard within Island of Kalokairi, which has a custom audio stream very much in keeping with the ideas of love and romance for those who wish to listen.
Rounded out by a natural sound scape for those who like to explore without music, Island of Kalokairi lends itself to personal EEP settings for those who prefer (I used one of my own fixed skies for the photos here) and makes for a rewarding visit. And don’t forget the neighbouring sky galleries, featuring art by both Ella and Mike.
SLurl Details
- Island of Kalokairi (Prema, rated Moderate)
Inara Pey: Living in a Modemworld 