For years Ibiza has been the world capital of decadence, debauchery and rave music. Home to the world's first mega-clubs and most innovative DJs, it's impossible to replicate. But for those who've been there and done that too many times to remember there's another Mediterranean party island you may want to tour.

Located some 1,500 miles east of Ibiza, the Greek island of Ios (aka Little Malta) has attracted those looking to have all-night fun since the 1970s.

According to lore it is the final resting place of Homer, but whether that legend is true or not, this southern Cycladic oasis is worth the Odyssey (about seven hours by ferry from Athens). From sloping Hellinistic steps and geometric white stone buildings it's almost too bad most visitors spend the daylight sleeping. But people don't come to Ios for ancient history; they come for youthful exuberance and it's contagious. As soon as the afternoon rolls around you'll find yourself surrounded by an international blend of young, tan, beautiful people, on a mission for hedonism.

The yellow sandy beaches, which seem cleaner than Ibiza's, are a great starting point. Milopota, one of the largest in all of Greece, is extremely popular and never feels too crowded. It is a perfect place to enjoy drinks, swim and stay cool under the hot and oppressive sun.

Once nightfall comes, get ready to be spoiled as hundreds of bars and clubs tucked along narrow city streets offer something for all tastes in both people and music. The sounds of the party vibrate across the island, with wild dancing and a lack of inhibition that makes Spring Break seem tame. Under the Grecian moon, fantasy and Ouzo blend to create the sensation that anything can happen before dawn... and it usually does.

While some complain that getting there takes an eternity, anyone who's been knows the hardest part of Ios is leaving.

Ios

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