Greek Getaway: Athens, Santorini, Crete & Naxos with Joe, Crystal, and Cheryl Saul-Sehy

Navigating Greece: Flights, Ferries, and Tours

• ✈️ Credit card points were strategically used to secure business class flights from Austin to Athens, involving a layover in London for comfort.
• 🚢 Travel between islands included a high-speed ferry experience, described as comfortable with amenities, and generally more reliable than flights due to sea conditions.
• 🏛️ Adventures by Disney tours are highlighted for their unique experiences, such as a race at the ancient Olympic stadium and immersive village visits, despite a significant cost of $6,700-$7,700 per person for 10 days.
• 🧳 A key benefit of Disney tours is luggage handling, eliminating the stress of managing bags between hotels and transport.

Exploring Athens: History and Culinary Delights

• 🌃 Rooftop restaurants with Acropolis views are recommended for a pleasant evening experience, especially as the weather cools down.
• 🍷 House wines in Athens are noted as being surprisingly good and affordable, offering a cost-effective way to enjoy wine with meals.
• 🏛️ Recommended tours include the Acropolis and Parthenon walking tour with a visit to the Acropolis Museum, and a gourmet food walking tour that included coffee, market visits, and wine tasting for a surprisingly low price.
• 🏛️ While Athens offers historical sites and museums like the Benaki Museum, the consensus is that spending more time on the islands might be preferable for repeat visitors.
• 🚇 For airport transportation, the subway is a cost-effective option at $9, saving money compared to taxis or hotel car services.
• 🛍️ The Plaka district is suggested for shopping and finding kitschy souvenirs.

Santorini: Crowds, Caldera Views, and Culinary Gems

• 🌋 Akrotiri, a Minoan city preserved by volcanic ash, is recommended for its historical insights into ancient life.
• 🚢 Boat trips, including hiking the volcano, offer beautiful views but Santorini is characterized by significant crowds, especially in popular towns like Oia.
• 🍽️ Amoudi Bay is noted for its seafood tavernas, with fresh lobster and impressive table-side presentations.
• 🚶‍♀️ The stairs down to Amoudi Bay are described as brutal, with mules available but not recommended due to animal welfare concerns.
• 💰 Prices in Santorini are significantly higher than in Athens, reflecting its status as a major tourist destination.
• 🌅 Dining at cliffside restaurants offers a way to enjoy the sunset without fighting the crowds directly at popular photo spots.

Crete: History, Culture, and Hidden Gems

• 🏝️ Spinalonga, a former leper colony, is a poignant historical site accessible by boat, offering a glimpse into a unique past and stunning clear waters.
• 🏛️ The Palace of Knossos, associated with the myth of the Minotaur, provides insight into Minoan civilization, though it is largely in ruins.
• 🏘️ Small, quiet villages like Ulanda and Plaka offer a slower pace of life and a genuine feel of Greek culture, contrasting with the crowds of Santorini.
• 🚗 Renting a car in Naxos is highly recommended for exploring the island's diverse beaches, mountain towns, and scenic drives.
• 🏖️ Panderos Beach is highlighted for its beauty, clear waters, and opportunities for boat trips to nearby caves.
• 🏨 The St. George Hotel in Naxos is praised for its exceptional hospitality from the owner, Spiros, making it a recommended stay over more luxurious but less personal options.
• 🧀 Naxos is a foodie haven, known for its self-sufficiency in producing honey, wine, cheese, and meat, with fresh fish being a particular highlight.

Travel Tips and Gear

• 🗣️ English is widely spoken in tourist areas of Athens and Santorini, making navigation easy.
• 🥗 A true Greek salad is defined by the absence of lettuce, typically featuring a large slab of feta.
• 팁 Tipping customs in Greece can be varied, with some establishments including service charges while others expect additional tips.
• 🧳 The Wander Plus bag is recommended as a travel essential for organization, security, and ease of access to passports and phones.