As my second trip to Greece speeds by, I am struck by how much I love this beautiful country. Although my experience is limited, I’ve learned quite a bit about how to navigate and enjoy a country that is ancient, yet modern in unexpected ways. Because we’re friends, I’m happy to share my knowledge with a few tips.
Public transportation is reliable, cheap and surprisingly timely. I’ve been on ferries, the metro, buses and a flight, and have had all good experiences. Don’t hesitate to book or utilize any of the options available in the area where you might be visiting.
The geography is astounding – the shades of blue of the water, the mountains that reach for the sun and the endless islands are amazing. If you’re exclusively picturing beaches and the metropolis that is Athens, you’re in for a surprise.
Speaking of surprises, be aware that toilet paper does NOT get tossed in the toilet after being used. Instead it gets thrown into a small, generally closed lid, waste paper basket. Wait a minute…is that where that term originated?! 🤯
The people here are very kind and warm. The woman who hosted me for the second time in her property on Paros, María, met me at the airport and welcomed me with a kiss. My host in Athens spent 45 minutes on the phone obtaining a reservation for my bus ticket when the website wouldn’t work for either of us. They are proud of their country and happy to ensure that visitors have positive experiences.
The beaches are fantastic. Some are “unorganized,” meaning you bring whatever you need and plop yourself down on the sand, while others charge a fee (€10 -20 at the beaches I enjoy) for renting a couple of lounge chairs and an umbrella. The latter situation generally offers table service for drinks and food. It feels like heaven.
Speaking of beaches, I’ve encountered nude and/or tops optional beaches and enjoyed both. That being said, swimming topless does come with danger. Avoid the ocean floor, is all I’m saying.
Greece is inexpensive. My accommodations, in 3 different locales, were all less than $90 a night. Food is also, at times, unbelievably cheap. One night in Parikia (on Paros Island), dinner for 3, with wine, was €44. Which, because of the current strength of American currency, came to $45. It felt like we were taking advantage of the locals, like expats in a Hemingway novel.
Oh – about food, damn, the pastry is good here! There’s a flakey af vanilla crème, dusted with confectioner’s sugar and a hint of cinnamon, filled thing they do here that we were unable, despite our best intentions, to start the day without. The cheeses, grilled sausage (!), seafood, salads and wine are all delicious – and I’ve got new and strong feelings for Souvlaki after our Athens food tour took us to this place. Swoon.
Greece is hot in the summer, like, really hot. Temperatures in the southern part of the “mainland” have been 95°+ during our time. If you get lucky, there will be a wind which will help make it bearable. Pack linen, rent places with laundry facilities, plan to change clothes at least twice a day and lean in. At least it’s dry heat. 😊
We each have our own vacation vibe. Maybe you like to plan each day and approach travel with an itinerary. That’s definitely not my way, at least not at this point in my life. I’m more a ”no plans, just possibilities” type, preferring to leave my time open. I mean, to me, that’s what vacation is all about and Greece has filled each of my days with beauty, friendly people and delicious food. I’ll be back.
Have you traveled recently? Any favorite experiences to share?
