My First Time in Samos with Richmond Holidays: A Week of Sunshine, Sea & Soulful Moments!
Hello! I’m Jo, part of the Richmond Holidays team based in our lovely Bournemouth office. Last week, I had the absolute joy of visiting beautiful Samos for the very first time — and if you were following along on social media, you might have seen me taking over our channels to share the adventure!
Spoiler alert: it was even better than I imagined!
From the moment I touched down to the moment I left, the week was full of connection, laughter, sunshine, and moments that reminded me just how special Richmond Holidays really are.
Starting Strong: Smooth Arrival & a Room with a View!
My trip began with an early morning flight out of London Gatwick. Bleary-eyed but excited, I landed in sunny Samos and was immediately met by the smiling faces of the Richmond welcome team. They made transfers a breeze – so handy when you’re arriving somewhere for the first time!
We arrived at the hotel and were welcomed so warmly again! The team even offered to take our bags to our rooms (Thank you!). I was staying in an upper-level room, and as soon as I stepped onto the balcony, I was delighted – what a view. Waking up to the sound of the sea and the Greek sunshine every morning felt like such a gift.
Welcome Meeting & A Week Full of Possibilities
Soon after settling in, we headed to the welcome meeting. If you’re going on a Richmond Holiday, don’t miss this! It gave such a clear picture of what the week could look like.
We heard from Euan, the Resort Manager, who gave us a kind and helpful introduction to the week. Celeste, the Waterfront Manager, shared everything we needed to know about water activities – sailing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and more. And Phoebe, our wonderful resort rep, became a real go-to person throughout the week. Nothing was too much trouble for her or the rest of the team.
Then came the introduction to all the excursions on offer—honestly, we were spoilt for choice! From go-karting, to ancient Ephesus, from a day trip to Patmos to the enchanting Pythagoreio by Night, and of course, the much-loved wine tasting experience. I couldn’t resist that one! I signed up for both the wine tasting and Pythagoreio by Night – one as a daytime adventure and the other for a relaxed evening out.
Adventures: Pythagoreio by Night & A Taste of Greece
Pythagoreio by Night – it did not disappoint! As with everything Richmond organises, it was made incredibly easy. The team handled all the logistics, from the drop-off to the return journey, so all we had to do was enjoy ourselves.
My first stop? The famous ice cream shop, Luigi – a Richmond favourite and a must-visit in Pythagoreio. Top – recommended flavour? You honestly can’t go wrong with Kinder Bueno… I may or may not have had it twice during the trip. (Okay, I did. And yes, it was just as good the second time!)
The town itself is beautiful – full of charm, winding alleys, and that relaxed, coastal Greek vibe. But at night? It’s absolutely magical. The harbour lights, the sound of gentle waves and live music in the air.
As expected, another highlight was the wine tasting excursion – a fantastic afternoon out. The vineyard was picture-perfect: sun-drenched but pleasantly breezy thanks to some clever outdoor air-con (yes, really!). We sampled several local wines, each paired with delicious Greek nibbles – olives, cheese, fresh bread – and the whole thing went down an absolute treat. I’d definitely recommend this for anyone looking to relax and soak up some local flavour – literally!
A Soulful Week of Peace & Connection
The holiday itself – the sunshine, the excursions, the brilliant team, and the beauty of Samos – was absolutely wonderful.
Throughout the week, I made the most of everything on offer: daily table tennis matches (I was determined to beat my personal best!), tennis, biking, and evenings spent around the communal tables at dinner. I loved meeting new people and forming real friendships over shared meals and stories.
And truly, that’s one of the things that makes Richmond Holidays so special — the people. One of the biggest highlights for me was the incredible community I got to “do life” with for a week. People I might never cross paths with in everyday life, yet here we were, sharing laughter, faith, and a sense of belonging. What a privilege.
But what made the week stand out on a whole other level was something even deeper.
Meeting our ministry leader was such a joy. From the very beginning, it was clear this wasn’t just a holiday – it was sacred space. The atmosphere was filled with prayer, thoughtful conversations, and the gentle presence of God. I came ready to switch off from my routine — but more importantly, I found myself switching on to what God was doing in and around me.
Although I’d understood Richmond’s ethos and heart for ministry from the office, experiencing it first-hand brought it to life in the most beautiful way. I truly treasured it — I’ve never encountered an environment quite like it.
Where else can you spend a week in the sun, surrounded by community, with uninterrupted time to rest, reflect, worship, and simply be?
That’s what makes Richmond Holidays so unique — the blend of ministry and community. It transforms a getaway into something far richer: space to connect deeply with God and others, to grow, and to return home feeling truly renewed.
Waterfront Wonders & Laughter at Sea
The waterfront really stood out as a highlight. I didn’t take part in any of the sailing lessons or RYA qualifications myself, but I spoke to so many who did – and they couldn’t speak highly enough of the experience. I watched both children and adults at dinner, glowing as they recounted what they’d learned on the water that day. It’s a real tribute to the incredible waterfront staff, who are kind, patient, and gifted teachers.
I did try a few joy rides though – what fun! And one of the standout moments for me? The Regatta! We sailed on a catamaran, and I honestly don’t think I stopped laughing the whole way through. Wind in our hair, sun on our faces, just pure, unfiltered joy!
Family Joy: Children, Youth & So Much Laughter!
I was fortunate enough to visit Samos during one of the weeks where the children and youth programme was running – and what a joy that was!
The team leading the children’s and youth work were incredible. From the moment I arrived, it was clear they brought not just energy and creativity, but real care. The whole week was filled with the sound of laughter, splashes, and spontaneous games. It was so much fun seeing families enjoy time together, and I honestly don’t think I’ve ever seen so many parents look that relaxed on holiday!
One conversation I had over dinner really stuck with me: a couple shared how they felt completely at ease leaving their children with the team, knowing they were in safe hands. “It’s one of the only times we can actually switch off,” they said. That level of trust isn’t something you come across every day – and it was beautiful to witness.
Each day was full of activity – swimming, paddleboarding, Uno games in the evenings, and even a water gun fight or two! One particularly memorable moment came during the final evening celebration, when the youth team surprised all the children and youth with a light-hearted water fight! It was unexpected, hilarious, and so full of joy.
But what stood out most was the spiritual depth woven into the fun. One team member shared how working with children had deepened their own faith – “they ask the most interesting and thought-provoking questions about God,” she said. “You can’t help but reflect more deeply yourself.”
It was a beautiful reminder that God is present not just in the quiet, reflective moments, but in the messy, splashy, joy-filled ones too. Watching them grow in confidence, friendships, and faith was a true privilege – and it brought another layer of richness to an already unforgettable week.
Final Thoughts
Samos truly stole a piece of my heart — from the peaceful mornings by the sea to the laughter-filled evenings and unforgettable connections. It’s the kind of place that stays with you long after you’ve left, and I already know I’d love to return one day!
If it’s been calling to you too, this might just be the perfect time to experience it for yourself. And who knows — maybe our paths will cross in Samos someday?!
See you soon!