The Mykonos climate is characterised by hot, dry summer weather and mild winters. Temperatures in July and August range from 86ºF (30ºC) during the day to 72ºF (22ºC) at night. Rainfall is almost non-existent in summer but showers can be expected between October and April.

There are good ferry connections between the Cyclades islands and the mainland, and in summer, hydrofoils and high-speed catamarans as well. Between May and September it is easy to island-hop, although strong winds can upset the more sensitive hydrofoil services. There are airports at Mykonos, Santorini and Paros. Reliable bus services connect the main towns on the islands, and taxis are easily available. Rental car agencies are available, as well as moped and motorbike hire, but as roads are treacherously narrow and winding it is not advised unless an experienced rider.

With a thriving nightlife and openly gay scene, one may not think Mykonos is the ideal holiday destination for children, but wonderful attractions abound that are sure to keep them entertained and amazed. Stroll along the harbour with an ice cream in hand and look out for Petros the Pelican, Mykonos' official mascot, while a visit to the trademark windmills of Kato Myli to enjoy their enormity and mechanics will keep the little ones thrilled. A trip to the island of Delos is a great way to spend a day with the kids, and hearing wonderful stories of Greek mythology with keep them captivated for hours. Take a trip to the Aegean Maritime Museum for a lesson in Greek nautical history, and marvel at the models. On colder days when outdoor activities with children are not an option, make use of many of the larger hotels' kids clubs where children can play and meet new friends, although mostly you need to be a guest for your children to make use of these facilities.

Greek is the national language, but English is widely spoken.

The Euro (EUR) is the official currency, divided into 100 cents. Banks and bureaux de change are widely available and travellers cheques and major credit cards are widely accepted. ATMs are widespread and are generally the cheapest and most convenient method of obtaining euros.

Known as the party playground of Europe and famed for its nightlife, Mykonos has some of the most exciting clubs and bars in the Mediterranean providing a fantastic night out for the more sophisticated traveller.

Often compared to the Balearic island of Ibiza, Mykonos has a pumping party scene. Head to Caprice and sip on a cocktail while the sun sets before heading out for a night on the town. Known as one of the world's most popular gay hangouts, it's not surprising a hedonistic party scene exists here with gay clubs like Pierro's, Ramrod and Porta, all located in central Taxi Square, being highly popular. Bars with live jazz bands, rock, house and blues line the streets, guaranteeing a good night out for all. Those keen for a spot of traditional Greek music and dancing best head to Thalami.

Although there are many more bars than clubs, after hours spots abound here too, and Paradise Beach is the place to go with popular haunts like Cavo Paradiso or the Paradise Club being the places of choice with large pools, DJs, theme nights and fantastic views - a great way to watch the sun rise.

Mykonos is one of the most expensive of all the Greek Islands, and a fashionable destination for many gay travellers, so it's not surprising Mykonos offers a wide variety of shopping, from supermarkets and shopping centres to smaller boutiques and local markets. There is something for everyone, but beware: the price tag can be high! Matogianni Street is the main strip and a good place to start browsing. With fantastic art galleries, Byzantine jewellery stores and clothing stores, such as Soho-Soho, many of the shopping is geared towards cruise-ship day-travellers. Other popular buys include hand-woven scarves, rugs, and even locally made sandals. Paros offers little in the way of shopping in comparison to Mykonos Town but head for the old town behind the harbour for some hidden treasures, such as beautiful jewellery and art and in this 'poor man's Mykonos'.

Known as a rather indulgent island and famed for its windmills, there are more things to do in Mykonos than just enjoying good shopping and a cosmopolitan nightlife.

History buffs and mythology fans will love the Archaeological Museum, Aegean Maritime Museum and the Folklore Museum, which are both guaranteed to blow your mind. Near the harbour, the 15th-century Church of Panagia Paraportiani, featuring four churches on the ground and one built on top of them, is the most photographed church on Mykonos and a must see. Look out for Petros the Pelican, official mascot of Mykonos, while you're strolling down by the harbour while the trademark 16th-century windmills can be seen from all points of Hora. For religious sites, head to Ano Mera to view the 18th-century Monastery of Panagia Tourliani and the Monastery of Paleokastro.

A trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the island of Delos, mythological birthplace of Artemis and Apollo and declared a national museum, will reward with its famous archaeological sites, while Little Venice's characteristic balconies overhanging the water on the sea's edge is an enchanting place to visit. Mykonos also has many popular beaches, including upmarket Psarou, family-friendly Platys Gialos, and tranquil Ftelia. Visitors should keep in mind that many beaches in Mykonos are nudity-friendly.