Things to know before you go:

MONEY:
Currency unit is the Greek Drachma (drs/drx). At present, the exchange rate is extremely favorable to the US dollar and Sterling.

Unlike many other islands, Lesvos has not yet been spoiled by the brush of careless tourism. There is a trade here, however it is mainly centered around the Northwestern coastal regions of the island.

If you are expecting to whip out your credit card at any given opportunity, you may be surprised to find that few places accept them.

Even if you do find somewhere, processing is very expensive and you will pay for the pleasure. Travelers checks are no problem, and you will pay approx. 2% per transaction.

As a general rule, do not expect to find an abundance of cash machines. The larger towns such as Mytilini, and some tourist areas do have them, but if you find one, I strongly advise you to take advantage while you can.

COSTS:
It's easy to travel and survive on a budget here. Eating out tends to be very good value, especially if you stick to restaurants favored by the locals.

As a rough guide, a starter of Humus or a Greek Salad will cost around 600drs and a basic main course will cost 1,000/1500drs. A half liter bottle of Beer will set you back around 600drs.

OUT & ABOUT:
Buses service the whole island and although public transport is not always the most comfortable way to travel, fares are low.

The blue air-conditioned Mercedes taxis which abound throughout the island will take you the length and breadth (approx. a two hour journey) for around 15,000drs.

In the main towns they operate on a meter system, but for longer journeys you can usually negotiate a good price.

Most public telephones take cards and these can be purchased from many small shops.

CIGARETTES:
If you are a smoker, it may be worth noting that vending machines are few and far between.

Cigarettes are available from newsagents and small shops, but rarely from restaurants so stock up before they close (around 9pm). Otherwise you could find yourself giving up earlier than planned.

CREEPIES:
Mosquitoes and other low flying and fighteningly large winged creatures can be a problem so take a repellent. Grass snakes are common in the countryside, especially in the summer months but are generally harmless.

HOT TIP:
A cool breeze tends to flutter from the surrounding Ocean all year round and this is most noticeable when climbing through the mountainous terrain toward the centre of the island.

However, don't let this mislead you, the sun is always very strong.

This Island of astounding natural beauty is set like a jewel in the Aegean Sea. Just five miles from the coast of Asia Minor, Lesvos, or Lesbos, lies to the north of Chios and south of Limnos.

The breathtaking landscape rolls through regions of pine-covered mountains to areas of barren, yet dramatic volcanic stone.

There are numerous sand and pebble beaches and many sheltered and isolated coves dotted along the spectacular indented coastline.

The temperate climate, inland rivers and natural springs all contribute to maintain the surprisingly lush vegetation of the island.

Lesbos is world renowned for it's many varied species of flora and fauna. It is also host to a superb petrified forest located between Eressos and Sigri in the Southwest.

This is a land steeped in tradition and rich in history and culture. The birthplace of musicians, poets, writers and artists who have been inspired through time and still in present day, by the natural charm and picturesque views allowing endless opportunity for exploration and discovery.

Wherever you choose to stay on the island, the chances are you will begin your journey from Mytilini, the capital of Lesvos and host to the Airport and commercial Seaport.

Located on the Northern tip, Mytilini is the largest town on the island.

If you're thinking of hiking into the mountainous terrain or you're not quite sure where your journey will take you, this is the place to stock up on goods. Bear in mind that cash machines are few and far between and if you need some dosh, get it here.

The town is located approx. 5km from the airport and if arriving by plane, you should consider taking one of the many Mercedes taxis waiting outside.

You will find car and bike hire agencies near the seaport, and the main bus depot close by where you will find details of routes servicing the whole island.

Public transport is a great way of seeing the island, but buses can be slow and the temperatures can soar above 90 degrees especially in high season.

Be warned, and always travel with plenty of bottled water which is readily available from most shops and cafes.

Mytilini has built up and into the surrounding hills like an amphitheater and is crowned by a stunning fortification. If you can, spend some time wondering the numerous back streets, where you will find many local cafes.

Try not to miss the market which is generally accepted as one of the best in Greece. Try the local thinly-sliced smoked meat, or the sardines for which Lesvos is famous.

The usual afternoon siesta is taken from 1 till 4pm and all but the larger shops will close.

If arriving by boat, you will find the harbour is a fascinating area buzzing with life. On the North side there are cafes and small restaurants, an ideal place to watch the numerous ferries and fishing boats whilst sipping ouzo, a Greek licorice liqueur which is generally about 40% proof. You have been warned.

Whether traveling by bus, taxi, hire car, bike or scooter, the scenery will unfold itself around you throughout your journey. The volcanic structure rises and falls like taught muscle undulating below a carpet of lush green to the North-east, and impressive volcanic rock formations to the West.

Huge lagoons of water and strips of beach will appear shimmering below and then beside as you bend toward your chosen destination. Small churches, road-side shrines and even whole villages seem to playfully hide from view until you are almost upon them.

Traveling to the further reaches of the island can take up to or even in excess of two hours (especially when traveling by local bus!). It is easy to become dehydrated, especially if your journey is likely to take place between 11am and 4pm when the sun is at it's most powerful.

This is truly an island representative of the myth and the magic surrounding Greek culture and upon arrival, one is immediately aware of the friendliness with which locals greet you.

The Greeks are good-natured socialites and people here actually smile and nod good morning for no apparent reason whatsoever!

Most Greeks here will have a smattering of English, but do not expect this to be the case as you travel further inland. Take a small phrase book, and if all else fails resort to miming. It works and you'll always raise a laugh!

For more info and pictures on Lesvos, go to the LesvosWeb website.

Make a date and check out my new website, Motherearth.co.uk, launching on May 10th.