Island Dreams: A Mother-Daughter Escape to Kos

There’s something magical about ticking off a bucket list dream, but doing it with your daughter, in the sun-drenched beauty of Greece, is something else entirely. Last July, my daughter and I jetted off to the stunning island of Kos for a much-needed summer getaway. We stayed at the Diamond Deluxe Hotel, a slice of luxury that lived up to its name with sparkling pools, serene spa vibes, and the kind of service that makes you feel truly pampered.

One of the biggest highlights of our trip was something we’d both dreamed of for years, horse riding on the beach. We booked three different riding experiences over the 10 day period, one a general ride getting me used to being back in the saddle, secondly a sunset ride which was truly magical as we rode along the golden sands, the waves gently lapping at the shore beside us and thirdly swimming with the horses this was by far the biggest bucket list tick, the moment couldn’t be more perfect We rode the horses into the sea into the sea. Feeling the warm water around us as we rode/swam through the clear blue waters was absolutely surreal, equal parts peaceful and exhilarating. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and sharing it together made it even more special.

Another day brought adventure in a different form, a boat trip around the nearby islands. We cruised over crystal-clear waters, laughing in the sun, and just when we thought it couldn't get better, dolphins appeared, playfully darting alongside our boat. We swam off the back of the boat in secluded coves, the water cool and inviting, and later stopped at a quaint little island restaurant for fresh local food and chilled white wine. It was one of those lazy, perfect days that makes you never want to go home. Kos gave us everything we needed, sunshine, bonding time, adventure, and moments we’ll never forget. If you’re looking for a destination that blends relaxation with a touch of the extraordinary, Kos is calling.