After what felt like the longest winter in living memory, I hit a point where I just needed sun, sea and a complete change of scene. My husband was away with work, so I decided it was the perfect opportunity to take my two children (10 and 12) away for a week, just the three of us, for some much‑needed sunshine and quality time together.

We flew Ryanair from Dublin to Thessaloniki, a flight of just under four hours, followed by an easy 40‑minute transfer to the beautiful all inclusive luxury resort of Ikos Oceania. From the moment we arrived, it felt like we had stepped into a different world.

Unconditional Luxury, Effortlessly Easy

Ikos describe their experience as “unconditional luxury” and it really does sum it up:

A place where you can share 5 star experiences and capture those special moments together. Menus designed by Michelin‑star chefs, yoga classes on the beach, and even a day cruising the coast in an electric MINI Countryman. Long pool days, family bike rides, crafted cocktails at sunset and, best of all, everything is included.

You genuinely stop thinking about the practicalities and just enjoy being together. The only difficult part is leaving.

A Slice of Refined Greek Luxury: Ikos Oceania

Perched above the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea, Ikos Oceania feels like a world of its own: elegant, sun‑drenched and effortlessly serene.

The resort is set on terraces that tumble gently down towards the sea, so many of the rooms and suites enjoy sweeping views over the water, with Mount Olympus often visible across the bay on a clear day. It is the kind of view you do not get tired of.

The accommodation is sleek and modern, with an understated Greek feel: soft neutral tones, light woods and floor‑to‑ceiling windows that pull in the light. Private balconies, gardens and some suites with plunge pools really blur the line between indoors and outdoors, which I loved. It meant that even quiet moments in the room still felt like “holiday time”.

Dining: Michelin‑Starred Menus, All Included

I was slightly hesitant about going all inclusive, but Ikos has completely converted me.

Dining is one of Ikos Oceania’s real strengths. Menus are curated by Michelin‑starred chefs, and you can choose from:

• Authentic Greek dishes and meze
• Refined Italian classics
• Asian fusion
• Elegant buffet and à la carte options

The beauty of the Ikos “Infinite Lifestyle” concept is that all à la carte restaurants, premium wines, cocktails and even 24‑hour room service are included. There are no awkward “extras” to sign for, no worrying about the bill at the end. It feels very freeing, especially when travelling solo with children.

The kids loved being able to try different dishes without any pressure, and I enjoyed being able to order a glass of wine or a cocktail with dinner, knowing it was all taken care of.

Activities, Wellness & Family Time

Ikos Oceania strikes a lovely balance between relaxation and things to do, which is ideal with older children.

We made full use of the facilities, including:

• Complimentary bikes: We took the bikes out several times along the seafront, which became one of our favourite parts of the day. Safe, easy and a lovely way to explore just beyond the resort.
• Sports facilities: We played tennis, used the soccer pitches and generally enjoyed having so much space and choice.
• The beach & pools: Long, lazy beach time and pool days, with staff on hand for drinks and snacks, meant I could actually relax while the kids were busy and happy.
• Wellness & gentle activities: There is a full spa, fitness options and open‑air yoga if you want to lean into the wellness side a bit more.

There is also a complimentary bus into the nearby town of Nea Moudania, which we used to pop in and out of the centre. It is a nice way to balance the resort “bubble” with a taste of local life.

The MINI Countryman Experience & A Sani Twin‑Centre Idea

One of the standout highlights for us was the complimentary use of the Ikos MINI Countryman.

Guests can book a time slot and take the car out for a day’s exploring. We used it to visit a friend staying at Sani Resort, which is only about a 25‑minute drive away. It was so simple, and it really opened my eyes to how easy it would be to create a wonderful twin‑centre holiday:

• A few days at Ikos Oceania for all inclusive luxury, premium drinks and that effortless “everything included” feel.
• Followed by a stay at Sani Resort for a slightly different style and setting, but with the same high standards.

For clients who enjoy variety but do not want to travel long distances, combining Ikos and Sani makes a fantastic Greek getaway.

Converted to All Inclusive… Ikos Style

I went into this trip slightly unsure about all inclusive, especially as I tend to associate it with more traditional resort stays. Ikos Oceania completely changed that.

The quality of the food and drink, the service, the design and the overall atmosphere feel genuinely luxurious and personalised. There was never a sense of compromise. I came home fully converted, already planning a return next May with all four of us this time.

For anyone looking at a Greek escape where everything is taken care of, but you still enjoy refinement, gorgeous surroundings and a real sense of occasion, Ikos Oceania is a superb choice.

If you would like help planning a fabulous Greek getaway, whether that is Ikos Oceania on its own or a twin‑centre stay combining Ikos and Sani, please get in touch and I would be delighted to design something special for you.