Greece. What comes to mind first? Mama Mia? Athena? The Olympics? Maybe even the islands like Mykonos or Santorini?
I have never been outside of the country, only Puerto Rico and a third of the states. So I am pretty seasoned when it comes to the Deep South but to explore the rich history of a country like Greece was an absolute dream. I still have to pinch myself that I spent that much time there.
Greece will forever have my heart! The turquoise Mediterranean Sea, the views of the cities, the friendliest islanders, and all the feta cheese for a lifetime. My lactose intolerance definitely left the chat during this 13 day excursion. We started our trip to Greece in Athens. The second we landed in Athens it all felt so real! Our hotel sent a car service so we were picked up at the airport by a sweet man who made us feel so special with our names on the whiteboard I for sure felt like royalty. The second we got in the car we were able to see all the views but my personal favorite in that moment was Mt. Penteli which I later learned was the source of white marble to refurbish the Acropolis!
We spent 3 days in Athens which I personally believe is the perfect amount. We were able to tour so many historical places like The Acropolis, Roman Agora, Hadrian's Library, and 6 other archaeological sites that were included in our combo ticket for $40 (USD) per person! That is a steal!!! Also these places were all walking distance apart so that made life so so easy! The sites had posts with descriptions but you could also hire a guide which I think is helpful but we enjoyed a self guided tour to be on our own time. Another thing, Greece is known for their jewelry so please buy all you can there it is gorgeous and I wish I bought more than a necklace! Traveler's Tip: Buy in Athens not on the islands because it's a whole lot cheaper there!
Here are some quick photos from Athens!
I mentioned the views being my favorite part of Greece but the best view was for sure Mars Hill. Not only because of how stunning the views are right here but because of the meaning. This hilltop is where the Apostle Paul preached his sermon to the Men of Athens about the one true King. Read all about it in Acts 17:22-31! The moments on this hill were surreal to be where Paul walked, to feel the presence of the Spirit, and of course to share that intimate moment with the man I love truly made this my favorite part of the trip.
As much as we loved Athens and it's historical value and authenticity we had to tap into our young sides and go party in Tinos + Mykonos and visit Delos Island to learn about Greek history from the royals, to the markets, to Apollo and visit the Aegean Sea.
So let's hop on the ferry!!
Now you can do either a short or long ferry...please if you love yourself take the short one! It may be a few euros more but so worth it! I mean 2 hours instead of 4 sign me up! We made the "mistake" of taking the 4 hour long one but I must say it was nice to sit and relax. I don't want to call it a mistake because we were able to catch up on sleep, reach out to our families for a check in and just chill out. The bar was onboard we met some cool people, could watch a movie, and slept..a lot because by this day it was our 4th day being 8 hours ahead and jet lag hit us like well like a ferry ship!
Now I want to highlight 2 more things! I love a good cocktail so my days in Greece always consisted of an aperol spritz...or two and then so much Greek wine! I never knew how known they were for their wine! So cheers!
Clubs. We went clubbing and the Greeks I am pretty sure invented clubbing because they party until 6am!!!
It is truly insane but so much fun! Also they play their music which sounds like house normally and they play American! So best of both worlds! Yamas!! I think my ultimate favorite was the beach club! They had little cabanas, a dance floor, and the best a buy one get one free drink sale!
We started early and left late even with a sunburn! But it was all so so worth it!
To say that I am blessed is an understatement. This was a trip of a lifetime so I am forever grateful I get to travel with the love of my life and experience so many new cultures. So advice to you...book the flight! I will continue to live my life to the fullest and take advantage of all life has to offer!
As much as I'd love to touch on the entire trip I'll host an Instagram live, Wednesday May 31, 2023 at 8pm CST to talk all about G R E E C E ! From cooking classes, to boating, to ATVing I've got you covered! I will answer questions, show more pictures, but also just chit chat so see ya there on @callitwhatyawantblog! For now enjoy these last few pictures!
Until then, tell me something good in the comments!
Such a great recap!! The drinks look so yummy!!
Loved reading this post, I can’t wait to visit Greece!