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the island didn’t equal the lasting impression struggles, and the enduring resilience of
made by other recent stops, such as
Dubrovnik or Slovenia.
In contrast, Argostoli on the island of
Kefalonia had a calmer, more subdued
ambiance. Its modern buildings and orderly
broad streets lacked the historic charms of
Corfu, largely due to a devastating
earthquake of 1953 that leveled much of the
town. During our visit, after the summer
season, the town felt unusually quiet, with
few tourists or locals in sight. Its easygoing,
unhurried appeal seemed centered on a
lifestyle that revolves around its beaches
and marinas rather than mass tourism.
Despite their differences, both Corfu and
Argostoli share a complex past shaped by
Venetian rule, British influence, wartime
36 WINE DINE & TRAVEL MAGAZINE SPRING 2025
their people. The Venetians left behind
fortifications and cultural imprints that
remain visible today. As British protectorates
in the 19th century, the islands saw
improvements in infrastructure, and Corfu
even retains traces of British culture,
including a love for cricket. Both ports
endured hardships during World War II and,
in their own ways, rebuilt and adapted,
embracing tourism as a major part of their
modern identity.
While each offered a different experience,
Corfu and Argostoli provided beautiful
weather, scenic walks, and a window into
Greece’s layered history. Both added to our
growing appreciation of the Ionian islands
and their enduring appeal.