I too had an identical experience 3 years ago, long before this historic recession. I took my newly wedded wife to Italy and on to Greece for our honeymoon. During our scheduled and well thought out itinerary, I decided to surprise her one morning in Santorini. Upon our departure from the island of Santorini, I told her we would go to Paros Island for a day…just “wing it”. I checked us into Paros Palace owned and operated by the most extravagant woman I have ever met. She was Aristotle Onasis’s private secretary for 14 years. I checked my sources. She was genuine. “They” decided if you were going to stay with them: vacancy or not. I managed to get a free upgrade to the “juuunior suuite”, as she pronounced it. It was worth it. I was with the love of my life and we were at the most extravagant private hotel in the Cyclades. It was perfect. We had a beautiful time there for an extended 3 days. The most ridiculous part of the story was sitting at the “private” pool bar where my “Cuba Libre” cost 30 Euros and my wife’s Pellegrino……12 Euros. We had the exact same conversation with our respective bartenders. He was a bit embarrassed when I informed him I worked for the Hellenic Bottling Company for 7 years and knew the exact costs involved in both drinks. I made sure it turned out to be a laugh for the humble islander bartender just doing his job and so proud of his employment. So, Monaco or Paros, recession or not, these have been a sign of my times for years. I hope the Economist, of which I am an avid reader; takes you up on your suggestion one day. All the best on your adventures.