Part One :: Best of Greece

This is a Trafalgar Tour that my mother and I are going to go on this spring. I realise that this page is incredibly low-tech, but it will serve its purpose until I start playing around with better code. (I did, however, fix that width problem you pointed out to me, mom. I hope this is better.)

Extras

::Want to know what the weather is like where we are? Here's a link to Weather Forecast.com. You can find what the weather's like just about anywhere. Thank-you meteorologists.

::Here is a page that has useful greek phrases for travellers - with audio pronunciations! Just click here.

Below is one of the cool little Trafalgar Maps provided for us. They're not terribly detailed, but it's perfect to give everyone an idea of what our trip looks like:

• Day 1 [May 11, 2005] Depart Canada. This is the day that mom and I start out really early and fly for too many hours over the ocean to another continent. I will miss J and my cats terribly! (Yes, I will Honey!)
  
  
• Day 2 [May 12, 2005] Today we arrive in Athens, Greece. No doubt we will be horribly jetlagged and stiff from spending so many hours on a plane. We are met and transferred to our hotel. Tonight, enjoy a welcome drink with our Tour Director.
  
  
  This is when we check into our hotel. The rest of the day is free for to start exploring the Greek capital. Most likely we'll do some exploring but we'll leave the Acrolopis for the guided tour, I think I want to check out the city as it is - slowly mind you because we'll be feeling the plane ride. Later we'll meet our tour director and fellow travelers. Lets hope it's a good bunch this time!
  
  
• Day 3 [May 13, 2005] Athens.
  Athens sightseeing & at leisure Our morning sightseeing includes the Acropolis and the Parthenon. We'll see the Agora, the Acropolis Museum, Royal Palace, the Temple of Zeus, Hadrian's Arch, and the stadium built for the first modern Olympic Games in 1896 before free time. (Buffet breakfast) An opportunity to see island life from the luxury of a cruise ship on the optional three-island cruise, visiting Aegina, Poros and Hydra. Poros is a lush island with a maze of narrow streets. Aegina is the main producer of pistachio nuts in Greece, while Hydra is home to a large artist community and where beautiful boutiques line the scenic harbor. I hear there are also other options available, depending on the week and the particular director we're in the care of, so we shall see what happens here. I shall include the optionals at the end of each section, just in case. I'm going to star the ones I hope we have the choice of.
  
  
• Day 4 [May 14, 2005] Athens to Nauplia.
  We drive to the bridge across the Corinth Canal. Then we visit the remains of the ancient city of Corinth, en route to Mycenae, to see the Beehive Tombs, the Treasury of Atreus, Lion Gate and remains of Agamemnon's Royal Palace. On to the Sanctuary of Aesculapius, God of Medicine, to visit the amphitheatre. Finally, we arrive in Nauplia. Below left is an image of Mycenean ruins and on the right is the famous lion gate.
  
  
  
  
• Day 5 [May 15, 2005] Nauplia to Olympia.
  Today we drive through the mountains of Arcadia to Olympia, where the first Olympic games were held in 766 BC. Next we stroll around the Olympic Stadium and the temples of Zeus and Hera. Below on the left is an image of Nauplia, and the left is an image of Olympia:
  
  
  
  There’s a rather special dinner outing tonight; it’s an option worth considering. This sounds intriguing - I think that we will have to indulge, of course. I mean seriously. I love food.
  
  
• Day 6 [May 16, 2005] Olympia to Delphi.
  Olympia - Delphi This morning we head to Patras for a ferry across the Gulf of Corinth to mainland Greece. Then on to Delphi on the slopes of mighty Mount Parnassus, home of the Oracle. We walk the Sacred Way to the Sanctuary of Apollo and visit the Archeological site. Once called “The Navel of the Earth,” Delphi was the greatest Oracle of the ancient world, where people flocked to seek advice. Now it’s one of the grandest sights in Greece; its theater and Temple of Apollo still stand in their lovely natural setting.
  
  
  
  I included an image of the Omphalos below because I love the idea that it is the "belly-button of the world". For more history and mythology about Delphi, go here. I think this and Delos are my two most anticipated sites - much like Stonehenge was when we went to England.
  
  
  
  
  
  
• Day 7 [May 17, 2005] Delphi to Kalambaka.
  A morning drive takes us over the Pourmaraki Pass to Lamia, and on via Trikala to Kalambaka. Then from here, we take a trip to the incredible monasteries of Meteora, perched on giant rocks above the town. We will visit two of these to admire the beautiful Byzantine frescoes and the views. Meteora is a cluster of monastic buildings perched in an unforgettable manner on a set of rising rock formations.Your included visit is certainly the day’s highlight. I'll say. I can't believe that people built up there without any machinery at all. They hoisted the materials up by HAND using ropes and pulleys. And we get to go there.
  
  
  
  
• Day 8 [May 18, 2005] Kalambaka to Athens
  Enjoy a scenic drive along the coast to Thermopylae, site of the famous battle between the Spartans and Persians. We return to Athens for our final night in this fascinating city. (Buffet breakfast)
  
  
  
  

  BEST OF GREECE Optional Excursions

• **EP14 - CAPE SOUNION Take a relaxing trip down to the southernmost tip of Mainland Greece to see the fifth century B.C Temple of Poseidon at Sounion. See if you can spot where Byron carved his initials on one of the temple’s sixteen columns. Marvel at the sheer rugged beauty of the coastline and the ancient temple perched above a 197-foot drop down to the Aegean Sea below. Stand above the site of the world’s first lighthouse, overlooking an area steeped in classical Greek history, ever since the tragic king Aegeas threw himself from the rocky precipice into the sea below, there by giving his name to the Aegean Sea.
  
  
• EP15 - ONE DAY CRUISE Aegina, Poros & Hydra. It’s just a short 20 minute drive to Flisvos harbour where you will board your ship for a memorable full day cruise to the three Saronic Gulf Islands of Aegina, Hydra and Poros. The cruise ship is fully equipped with bars, dance floor, inside/outside seating, money exchange, gift shop, restaurant, air conditioning/heating etc. Lunch with a glass of wine is inclusive of the price and in the afternoon there is also a small show to keep you entertained for the return journey.
  
  
• EP22 - KOROPI. “Old Stables” Greek Folklore Evening A 40 minutes drive out of Athens in small village called Koropi, situated in the wine district of Attica, is the ‘Old Stables’ Taverna. Renowned as an excellent Greek folklore taverna, also frequented by the local residents, you will dine on typical Greek food & wine, whilst enjoying a professional floorshow. And if, after a few glasses of Ouzo & wine you are over come with the desire to join in, then we’ll happily teach you a few steps! (Casual dress).
  
  
• EP42 - MICROLIMANO. Seafood Dinner This is an evening excursion to the picturesque fishing harbour of Microlimano, which is the perfect setting to enjoy a wonderful seafood dinner served on the waterfront. Dinner includes starters, shrimp, calamari, fish, salads, fruit, wine, ouzo and soft drinks.
  
  
• EP79 - ATHENS. Greek Evening in Plaka This is an evening excursion to a taverna in Plaka, which is within walking distance from most of the central Athens hotels. Excellent Greek food in a lively atmosphere, entertained through dances and music from all parts of the country. Wine, beer and soft drinks are also included. Although the show does have an official ending time, clients are more than welcome to stay on in the taverna, to join in with the local residents! (Casual dress)
  
  
• **EP80 - ARCHAEON GEFSEIS. Ancient Tastes One cannot leave Greece without relishing what the Ancients used to savour. A unique opportunity to compliment your “Hellenic Experience”. A restaurant, which recreates the ancient Greek symposium, with all its romance and picturesque interest. Dine in a torch-lit atmosphere, on the most extraordinary dishes. Waiters in togas, archaic eating and drinking utensils, air scented by essential oils, as well as music with rhythms and sounds of antiquity are a few of the many pleasures enjoyed here. (Seriously, waiters in togas? How can we not do this? LOL What do you say mom?)
  
  But instead of returning to Canada at this point, we are going to embark on another tour:

  Part Two :: Greek Island Hopper

  
  
  
• Day 9 [May 19, 2005] Athens
  After we meet our new tour director and new group, we get to do some more Athenian sightseeing. (Buffet breakfast)
  
  
• Day 10 [May 20, 2005] Today's sightseeing tour includes a visit to the amazing Acropolis, the Olympic stadium, plus admire the Evzone guards at the tomb of the unknown soldier. We'll also tour some of the most famous sites in Athens such as the Temple of Zeus and Hadrian's Arch. Afterwards, your afternoon is at leisure. Perhaps simply relax, shop or sightsee further. This evening, why not dine on local specialities in one of Athens many cosmopolitan restaurants?
  
  
• Day 11 [May 21, 2005]Athens to Mykonos (3nights)
  An early morning departure from Athens on our way to Piraeus port. Here we board our high-speed express ferry and cruise to the playground of the rich and famous, Mykonos. On arrival we transfer to our hotel. Then free time to relax or perhaps to explore this white-washed island with its windmills and uninhibited nightlife. Tonight, we enjoy a dinner of local specialities in a restaurant.
  
  
  
  
• Day 12 [May 22, 2005] to Day 13 [May 23, 2005] Mykonos at leisure
  Two glorious days at leisure to explore the riches of Mykonos. Perhaps enjoy a cocktail on the waterfront at little Venice, watch a sunset at Shirley Valentine beach or swim at the dazzling beaches that surround the island.
  
  
  
  Or why not take a short boat ride to the birthplace of Artemis and Apollo, Delos?
  
  
  
  
• Day 14 [May 24, 2005] Mykonos* to Santorini*(3nights)
  This moring we take a short ferry ride to the beautiful island of Santorini, where we spend the next three days. We are met at the port and transferred to our hotel. After check-in there's free time to soak up the atmosphere and take in the beauty you'll remember for a lifetime. This evening, we enjoy a dinner of local specialities in a restaurant. (Buffet breakfast/ Dinner) * Please note: Due to weather conditions, calls at the ports of Mykonos and Santorini may need to be altered.
  
  
• Day 15 [May 25, 2005]to Day 16 [May 26, 2005] Santorini at leisure
  Santorini has much too offer and you will have two full days to do as you please. Enjoy breathtaking caldera views, white-washed houses, amazing sunsets and cobblestone streets which make Santorini a truly unique vacation experience. (Buffet breakfast)
  
  
  
  Perhaps spend your days relaxing in clifftop restaurants and cafés, lazing on the sun-soaked black, red and white beaches and observing history unearthed at the site of Akrotiri. Or why not take a caique ride to the still active volcanic island of Nea Kamini and swim in the hot springs?
  
  
  
  
• Day 17 [May 27, 2005] Santorini to Athens
  After breakfast time to bid farewell to the Cyclades as we make our way back to Athens for the final night of our tour. On our arrival at Piraeus port we transfer back to our Athens hotel. Enjoy time at leisure perhaps wander around and do some last-minute shopping or maybe take part in a farewell dinner at a local taverna with your fellow travelling companions. (Buffet breakfast)
  
  
• Day 18 [May 28, 2005]Return
  Farewell this morning after breakfast as our tour comes to an end. Transfers to the airport have been arranged for your convenience.
  
  
• Day 19 [May 29, 2005]Arrival back in Canada
  Back to John, the cats and everyday life with armloads of film and postcards. ;)
  
  
  
  
  

  Island Hopper Optionals:

• **EP106 - CORFU. Scenic Sailing & Beach Tour Depart the pier by boat and sail in the direction of the famous Pontikonisi, known as the mouse island, which is the target of many photographers. Pass nearby the old and the new fortress, ex King George of Greeces’ Palace. Make a turn back to Pontikonisi Island in order to make a stop on the pier in front of the Hotel Hilton. Here you will have free time to walk freely around or visit the Vlacherna Church, situated approx. 150 meters from pier, here great photos of the church and Mouse Island may be taken, with its famous small church on top called Pantokratos Church. Nearby find as well a small café and the beach where you can enjoy swimming . The beach is protected by sea waves and is therefore suitable for those who like to walk into the seawaters. Leaving the Hilton pier on our voyage in the direction of Corfu port, approx. 45 minutes sailing, enjoy some snacks and a traditional Greek aperitif “Ouzo”. The boat will drop the anchor in one of the bays on Vidos Island (waters here are between 3 and 5 meters deep), you will have one hour at your disposal to swim in these clear blue waters. Jump directly from the boat or use the ladder. Relax your last minutes on board the boat while we sail you back to the ship. Please Note: Not guided tour, only escorted. Bathing suits should be worn under clothing as there is no changing facilities available. Do not forget your camera. Exclusive use of the boat for our guests. Facilities on board the boat: two toilets and a small bar. Covered boat to protect you from the sun during sailing.
  
  
• EP90 - GENOA. City Tour Departure from the pier by motorcoach with your guide and drive along the famous Via Gramsci in order to reach the center of town and to admire the main monuments of this ancient Sea Republic. From the coach you will see the famous Aquarium of Genoa, built in 1992 in front of Palazzo S. Giorgio, once the seat of the Captain of People and the first bank in Italy. After which, you will reach Columbus’s House and here you will leave the coach for a stroll in the historical center to visit St. Lawrence Cathedral, the atrium of Ducal Palace and St. Jesus Church where you will have the possibility to admire two paintings by Rubens. You will have the opportunity to admire the beauty of Piazza de Ferrari, the heart of the town dominated by a wonderful bronze fountain and overlooked by the Carlo Felice Theatre. Afterwards you will proceed by motorcoach up to the hill of Carignano to have a complete view over the Center of Genoa and then back down to Piazza della Vittoria with the Arch to the death during the first World War. Please Note: No high heals shoes are recommended. Itinerary may be adjusted according to the traffic regulations and conditions.
  
  
• **EP87 - MYKONOS. Ancient Delos. Delos, once a Sacred Island, is the legendary birthplace of God Apollo and his twin sister Artemis. For 500 years, this tiny island was the religious and commercial hub of the entire Aegean Sea. Today the whole territory of the deserted Delos is one of the most important archaeological sites of the eastern Mediterranean. During this half-day trip you may visit, amongst others, the remains of the Temple of Apollo, the sanctuary of Artemis, the old city and the theatre and then walk down the celebrated Lion Street. In the museum of Delos one can admire Archaic, Classical, Hellenistic and Roman Sculptures, a collection of vessels from all periods as well as small items of everyday use.
  
  
• EP102 - MYKONOS. Island Tour. A bus tour that will take you to some of the most beautiful beaches of the most famous Greek island. The first stop is in Plati Yalos, one of the most protected and organised beaches on the South coast. Next stop is in Ornos beach with its little fishing harbour and then drive on to the bay of Agios Ioannis where you visit the little double church, which gave its name to the bay, and offers a fantastic view of Delos. Then you leave the South coast, driving past Korfos and Megali Ammos you arrive at Agios Stefanos beach for a photo stop and driving over the new peripheral road we visit the village of Ano Mera with its cosy square and the monk’s monastery “Panagia Tourliani”. You continue on to Kalafatis beach, famous for its relaxed atmosphere before drive back to Mykonos town where the tour ends in Fabrika square.
  
  
• EP106 - MYKONOS. Paradise Cruise. A mini-cruise on a fishing-boat will give you the opportunity to enjoy the sight of some of the island‚s most spectacular bays, from the sea. Sailing along Mykonos‚ southern coast, you will pass the beaches Paranga, Paradise, Super Paradise, Agrari, Elia and Kalafatis and reach the island of Dragonissi. If the weather permits the boat will enter the caves where there will be free time to swim and to snorkel. Otherwise the alternative beaches for the free time will be Frangias or a small private beach on Dragonissi. Next stop is the beach of Kalo Livadi for lunch (included). After lunch you can swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea, explore the sea-bottom with mask and snorkel or just relax under the Cycladic sun. cruise returns early in the afternoon.
  
  
• EP88 - SANTORINI. Island Tour. A half-day trip starts with your bus following a route with a beautiful view to the Caldera and the island’s villages. Then you visit the monastery of “Profitis Ilias”, which is built on the highest point of the island (1710 AD), the top of the mountain that was named after the monastery. You continue on to the archaeological site of Akrotiri where a guided tour of the site takes place. Leaving from Akrotiri you drive on to the beach of Perivolos where you will stay for two hours to swim or to have lunch. On the way back you will stop in one of the famous local winery to taste some of the Santorini’s famous wines. (Entrance fees Euro 5 in Akrotiri and lunch are not included)
  
  
• **EP90 - SANTORINI. Oia & Sunset Dinner. After a twenty minute drive from the hotel to the North part of the island you will arrive in the beautiful village of Oia where you can wander the streets, stroll through some of the art galleries and take some breath-taking photos from the old castle. Then you board your bus once again and go to a charming restaurant with unrestricted views, five minutes outside of Oia. There you can taste some of the local specialties admiring on the same time one of the most spectacular sunsets in the world. After the dinner, the bus takes you back to Fira where you can continue your night in town or retire to the hotel. (Dinner is not included)
  
  
• EP91 - SANTORINI. Sunset Cruise. Taking the bus first to the port of Athinios where you will embark on the traditional boat that will take for your cruise. After a few minutes sailing on the deep waters of the Caldera you will be in a unique viewpoint to fantastic scenery. Appetizers will be offered on board while you will be admiring the sun setting. (Transfer included)
  
  
• EP14 - CAPE SOUNION Take a relaxing trip down to the southernmost tip of Mainland Greece to see the fifth century B.C Temple of Poseidon at Sounion. See if you can spot where Byron carved his initials on one of the temple’s sixteen columns. Marvel at the sheer rugged beauty of the coastline and the ancient temple perched above a 197-foot drop down to the Aegean Sea below. Stand above the site of the world’s first lighthouse, overlooking an area steeped in classical Greek history, ever since the tragic king Aegeas threw himself from the rocky precipice into the sea below, there by giving his name to the Aegean Sea.
  
  
• EP22 - KOROPI. “Old Stables” Greek Folklore Evening A 40 minutes drive out of Athens in small village called Koropi, situated in the wine district of Attica, is the ‘Old Stables’ Taverna. Renowned as an excellent Greek folklore taverna, also frequented by the local residents, you will dine on typical Greek food & wine, whilst enjoying a professional floorshow. And if, after a few glasses of Ouzo & wine you are over come with the desire to join in, then we’ll happily teach you a few steps! (Casual dress).
  
  
• EP42 - MICROLIMANO. Seafood Dinner This is an evening excursion to the picturesque fishing harbour of Microlimano, which is the perfect setting to enjoy a wonderful seafood dinner served on the waterfront. Dinner includes starters, shrimp, calamari, fish, salads, fruit, wine, ouzo and soft drinks.
  
  
• EP79 - ATHENS. Greek Evening in Plaka This is an evening excursion to a taverna in Plaka, which is within walking distance from most of the central Athens hotels. Excellent Greek food in a lively atmosphere, entertained through dances and music from all parts of the country. Wine, beer and soft drinks are also included. Although the show does have an official ending time, clients are more than welcome to stay on in the taverna, to join in with the local residents! (Casual dress)
  
  
• EP80 - ARCHAEON GEFSEIS. Ancient Tastes One cannot leave Greece without relishing what the Ancients used to savour. A unique opportunity to compliment your “Hellenic Experience”. A restaurant, which recreates the ancient Greek symposium, with all its romance and picturesque interest. Dine in a torch-lit atmosphere, on the most extraordinary dishes. Waiters in togas, archaic eating and drinking utensils, air scented by essential oils, as well as music with rhythms and sounds of antiquity are a few of the many pleasures enjoyed here
  
  
  

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