ISLAND HOPPING IN THE GREEK ISLANDS

Transcription

1 ISLAND HOPPING IN THE GREEK ISLANDS MAY 12-20, 2019 HIGHLIGHTS TRIP SUMMARY Visiting the most beautiful villages in the Aegean Sea Hiking winding paths past terraced hillsides and olive groves Savoring scrumptious Greek food, including a cooking class Watching amazing sunsets from craggy coasts Touring Athens, including visits to the Acropolis, the greatest monument in the Western world, the Parthenon, and the new Acropolis Museum Phone: Outside the US: Fax: info@goodadventure.com

2 TRIP AT A GLANCE Dates: May 12-20, 2019 Location: Cyclades Islands, Greece Cost: $3, Activities: Hiking, Cultural Arrive: Plan to arrive at the Athens airport (ATH), May 12, by 3:00 pm for a 4:00 shuttle Depart: Anytime May 20 TRIP OVERVIEW Explore both the culture and the natural beauty of the Greek islands by foot. We will hike along ancient footpaths, sample Greek delicacies at local taverns, sit back to watch the street life, and swim in the azure seas. The Cycladic complex of islands is the most representative of the archetypal Greek style: fishing villages with whitewashed flat roofed houses and narrow streets, hundreds of chapels, rocky landscape contrasting with the deep blue sea, and bays with powdery white sandy beaches. On this trip we will visit the best spots as well as journey to the interior of the islands where we can experience firsthand the culture and habits of the islanders. Maximum group size: 14 RATING This trip is a great choice for women in good physical condition who enjoy walking on a mixture of rocky paths, dirt tracks, occasional paved roads mule paths, with occasional steep places. Suitable for both adventurous novice and experienced hikers, most days the hiking is 3 to 4 hours. The hike with the most elevation gain is climbing Mt. Zeus, which is about a 1.5-hour ascent, however you can always opt out for a delightful day in town. This trip is rated both 2 and 3 because there are options. You will have the best option to fully participate in all options if you train for a level 3 trip, engaging in aerobic conditioning, such as walking vigorously up hills, jogging, cross country skiing or stair stepping for minutes at least 3-4 times a week. Rating: 1 [2] [3] 4 5. WHAT'S INCLUDED 8 nights double occupancy at 3 star hotels in Athens and local guesthouses on the islands English speaking Greek guide (may be male) and an AGC guide (If there are fewer than 7 on the trip, there will not be an AGC guide) All activities on itinerary, including Acropolis Museum and authentic Greek cooking class All breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 7 dinners All transportation during the trip, (private buses, taxis, ferry tickets, internal flights (Santorini/Athens), transfers from port to hotels on the islands, 1 group arrival transfer What's not included: Travel to and from Athens, beverages (aside from bottled water at meals), 2 lunches and 1 dinner, arrival transfers outside of 1 group transfer, airport departure transfer, guide gratuities, travel insurance.

3 OUR ITINERARY Below is the proposed itinerary for the trip. As is true on any adventure travel trip, plans for any specific day may be modified due to weather considerations, unforeseen circumstances, new opportunities, and group interests. DAY 1 MAY 12, SUNDAY If you have the time to arrive early (always an excellent idea) to help you adjust to the time change and enjoy Athens, we'll be happy to make reservations for you at the hotel where we'll be staying. Otherwise, you will need to leave North America on Saturday, May 11, in order to arrive in Athens on May 12. Plan to arrive by 3:00 pm for a 4:00 pm group shuttle from Athens Airport to your hotel. That evening meet we'll with our local guide for a short walking tour of Athens and then share a welcome dinner in a traditional Greek tavern in the old part of Athens, in Plaka, overlooking the Acropolis. Overnight Hotel Philipos or similar. (D) DAY 2 MAY 13, MONDAY After breakfast, a half day sightseeing tour of the Acropolis with a professional guide will introduce us to one of the crowning glories of Greek culture. At the top we learn all about the history of the glorious monuments of the Acropolis (the Parthenon, Erechthion, Propylaia, and Nike Temple) as well as the surrounding monuments (the Dionysus sanctuary, Pnyx Hill, Odeon of Herodes Atticus, and the Ancient Agora). We will spend some extra time at the Parthenon, the finest sanctuary of ancient Athens, originally dedicated to its patron the goddess Athena. We will then continue our tour with a visit to the New Acropolis Musuem. The walk is 10 minutes along a beautiful pedestrian area that was created around the Hill of the Acropolis, as a way to join most of the Archaeological Sites of Athens together. Seeing the museum after our visit of the Acropolis really helps "put together" the archaeological site with the findings displayed in the various exhibition areas. After lunch, we transfer to the Athens airport for our 40-minute flight to the beautiful island of Paros. Along the way we'll stop for photos at the Panathinaikon Stadium, the stadium where the first Olympic Games were held in 1896, and the Parliament. Upon arrival in Paros we transfer to our hotel and enjoy our first island dinner. Hotel Kalypso or similar (B, L, D)

4 DAY 3 MAY 14, TUESDAY Today we will hike from Lefkes to Alyki. This interesting hike, a combination of paths, dirt roads, and a little paved road, goes through Agios Ioannis (St. John), Agios Georgios (St. George), Aneratza, and Kamari before it ends in Alyki. And this may be the high point of the hike! It ends at Alyki beach, where we can cool off swimming in the clear waters of the Aegean Sea. This hike usually takes about 3.5 hours, about 4.5 hours total with a couple of stops. In the afternoon we learn some of the secrets of delicious Greek cooking as we participate in a Greek cooking class. We'll learn how to make several authentic Greek dishes, and once the bread is baked and the food cooked, we will enjoy a typical Greek meal. Hotel Kalypso or similar. Total hiking time: 3-4 hrs. (B, L, D) DAY 4 MAY 15, WEDNESDAY This morning we'll have some time to explore Paros town before taking the ferry to the island of Naxos. Naxos is the largest of the Islands, known for its natural beauty and also its "kouros". Remnants of ancient Greece, kouros are full-sized statues of male youth which may or may not be related to the god Apollo. After lunch our hike literally starts in in the backyard of a Greek family, at the site of Kouros of Melanes statue. Our hike along an old footpath gradually descends to the picturesque village of Ano Potamia. After refreshing ourselves at the village spring, those who choose can continue uphill to the Apano Kastro (Upper Castle). Built in a very strategic position, it commands expansive views of Naxos town and port and surrounding towns. This is the highest point of our hike and about a 400 ft elevation gain. Our hike finishes with an easy walk to the village of Halki and a visit to a small distillery that produces Kitron, the local specialty liquor. Overnight Naxos Resort or similar. Total hiking time: 3 hours, 4 hours with stops. (B, L, D) DAY 5 MAY 16, THURSDAY We start today with a drive to the little chapel at Santa Marina. Today's hike is to the summit of Mt. Zeus, the highest point in the Cyclades, with incredible panoramic views from the summit. The ascent and descent takes about 3 hours including ample time for pictures and stories at the top. We'll enjoy a picnic lunch in the courtyard around the little chapel before continuing our hike along a road to the village of Filoti, the secondlargest town on Naxos. From there we are transported back to our hotel and have the rest of the afternoon free for swimming or visiting the old part of Naxos town. If you prefer not to hike, spending the day relaxing and wandering through town or swimming are excellent options. Dinner is on our own tonight and our Greek guide can suggest a favorite, or you can choose one of the many quaint taverns as you wander the narrow streets of the town. Overnight Naxos Resort or similar. Total hiking time: 4-5 hrs. (B, L)

5 DAY 6 MAY 17, FRIDAY We can linger over breakfast this morning or go for a walk along the beach before taking a 1 pm ferry to the fairest island of the Cyclades, Santorini. Santorini, probably the best known of the Cyclades, was shaped by a huge volcanic eruption in 2000 B.C. that destroyed the town in the central part of the island and left a huge crater behind. Our ferry arrives about 3 pm and after settling into our hotel we have the rest of the afternoon free to relax by the pool, admire the breathtaking view of the volcano, wander the streets of Fira, or join your guide for a hike out to a point on the beach that overlooks both sides of the island. Whatever you choose to do, we will meet for the sunset over the volcano and share a delicious dinner, sampling some of the local foods of Santorini. Overnight Astir Thira or similar. (B, D) DAY 7 MAY 18, SATURDAY Today we hike from our hotel in Fira to the picturesque village of Oia. After breakfast, we start the hike from the cable car station. The first 40 minutes is a stone-path that turns into a footpath. The hike goes along the rim of Caldera (the collapsed crater) where the picture opportunities are legion. We end up in the village of Oia where we have time to explore its narrow passageways and quaint shops before having lunch and returning to Fira. There may be some time at the end of the day to visit one of its famous wineries or just wander in its picturesque alleys and do some shopping. Note: Tomorrow some of you will be heading to Athens for a last evening in that beautiful city. Others of you will be continuing on to Crete for the extension offered. But, tonight, we'll all celebrate our island hopping tour and our new understanding of Greek life at our final meal all together in a tavern overlooking the caldera! Overnight Astir Thira or similar. Total hiking hours: hrs. (B, L, D)

6 DAY 8 MAY 19, SUNDAY Please note: The daily itinerary for today will depend on what you have chosen in regard to the Crete extension. If you are not planning to join the extension, then your itinerary is listed below. If you are continuing to Crete for more fun in Greece, then you will be take the evening ferry instead of flying back to Athens. You can see the itinerary here: adventuresingoodcompany.com/pdf/crex_ _trip_summary.pdf Island Hopping in the Greek Islands trip itinerary continued: Our flight to Athens today doesn't leave until this evening so we have time to see Santorini from a completely different perspective: the cockpit of a kayak! With the freedom of kayaks, we can enjoy views from the sea of spectacular rock formations and crystal blue water. We'll stop at a beautiful beach for swimming, snorkeling, and a picnic lunch, kayaking for a total of about 4 hours and 7 miles. No previous kayaking experience is needed; you'll get taught what you need to know to be comfortable in your boat. If you choose not to kayak, there is an excellent alternative - a tour to the volcano itself. You will go to the Old Port where you board a small boat (this is a public tour), sailing to the islet of Nea Kameni. You will ascend a path of crushed volcanic rock to the crater of the still active volcano. After a walk around the rim and plenty of photo opportunities, you walk back down to the boat and sail to a second islet called Palea Kameni. There you have an opportunity to swim from the boat in the Aegean and into the waters of the volcanic Hot Springs (which are warm at best). If you don't want to swim, you are free to remain on the sailboat and relax in the sun. After the swim and tour, you will return to the port and transfer back to the hotel. Your AGC guide may not be with you for the public tour but she will make sure you know where to go. The late afternoon plan will depend on the time of our flight back to Athens. In any event, we will share a final dinner in this beautiful Greek city of Athens. Flight to Athens and transfer to our hotel in Athens. Overnight Hotel Philippos or similar. (B, D) DAY 9 MAY 20, MONDAY You are free to leave anytime today and the guide will help you arrange your transfer to the airport. Alternatively, May is a great time to be in Greece and there is still much to see! (B)

7 ADDITIONAL TRIP INFORMATION GETTING THERE Plan to arrive at Athens International Airport by 3:00 pm for a 4:00 shuttle. If you are coming from the United States or Canada, you may need to leave on 5/11/19 to arrive on 5/12/19 by 3:00. If you arrive earlier and prefer not to wait, it is easy to take a taxi or the metro to our hotel. Detailed information on our airport shuttle and alternative transportation will be provided in the Pre- Departure document, sent 6 months prior to trip start. If you would like help with any travel plans, we recommend our travel agent Barbara Phillip barbara@scaneastwest.com or call (206) ACCOMMODATIONS We will be staying in a 3-star hotel in Athens and 3 local guesthouses on the islands. ATHENS: Philipos or similar PAROS: Hotel Kalypso or similar NAXOS: Naxos Resort or similar SANTORINI: Pelican or similar Greece is known for its fresh and delicious food and vegetarians are easily accommodated. Please contact the office if you have significant dietary restrictions that are a potential concern for you. WEATHER Average daily temperatures in Athens and on the islands during the month of May range from the highs of degrees Fahrenheit to lows in the evening of degrees Fahrenheit. Days are mostly clear with only a slight chance of rain. (And yes, you still have to bring that rain jacket) May is considered the best time to visit Greece in terms of lower chances of rain, low humidity and plenty of sunshine. TRAVEL INSURANCE WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND TRIP CANCELLATION/TRIP INTERRUPTION INSURANCE, WHICH COVERS YOUR COST IF YOU NEED TO CANCEL OR INTERRUPT YOUR TRIP for medical reasons, trip delay, lost baggage, and other unforeseen emergencies. Adventures in Good Company will send you information about travel insurance with your registration information, or you may purchase coverage through your own insurance company. In order to avoid disappointment and expense in the event that you must cancel your trip we strongly urge you to purchase some type of insurance coverage. You can also sign up for it online at Travelex Insurance. To get the best rates, use as your location number on the Get A Quote page.

8 PACKING LIST FOOTWEAR 1 pair of lightweight hiking boots 1 pair of comfortable shoes for general use 2-3 pairs of hiking socks (wool or synthetic equivalent: Smartwool, Thorlo, Darn Tough) CLOTHING 2-3 pair of comfortable synthetic long pants for hiking - zip-offs work well 1-2 pairs of shorts/3/4 pants (lightweight and quick drying) 2-3 synthetic or lightweight merino wool T-shirts or short-sleeved shirts 1 lightweight, long-sleeved shirt for hiking - button up front is the best 1 lightweight fleece jacket/vest 1 rain jacket/poncho waterproof/breathable fabric like Gore-tex - not a lightweight plastic poncho Underwear/nightwear 1 wide brimmed or baseball style hat for protection from the sun/rain 1 swimsuit 1 2 changes of casual clothes to wear at end of day TOILETRIES (small everything) Toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, hand sanitizer, shampoo, contact lens paraphernalia, sanitary supplies Sunscreen and lip protection with sunblock of at least SPF 15 Personal first aid/patch kit - Band-Aids, 1 safety pin, moleskin, Compeed (or blister bandages), ibuprofen, any personal medications Please note: Individuals who have had or have the potential for a severe allergic reaction to insect stings, specific foods or medications must bring an epi-pen. Please consult your physician and tell your guide. EQUIPMENT/ESSENTIALS Passport and a photocopy of your passport 1 daypack (see notes on packing list for recommended capacity) Capability to waterproof your backpack. Either a rain cover or a heavy-duty plastic bag to line your pack. Capacity to carry 2 liters of water (Please see Notes on Packing List) Sunglasses (100% UV protection) w/retention strap insect repellant Small headlamp or flashlight 1 2 bandanas/buff Ear plugs (for a good night s sleep!) Wristwatch/travel alarm clock OPTIONAL (personal preference, not required) 1 pair trekking poles (highly recommended for this trip) Camera (extra battery) and film/memory card Book, notebook, journal, pencil/pen Compact binoculars Your favorite snack (snacks will also be provided) 2 pair synthetic, lightweight liner socks (optional -- not everyone uses sock liners) Shower shoes (like flip flops) Wash cloth (typically European linens do not include a wash cloth) Plug adaptor/electrical converter (specific information will be sent with the pre-departure information)

9 NOTES ON PACKING Adventures in Good Company's packing list covers everything you need to assure your safety and comfort. You may not use everything you bring; however, you need to come prepared for all possible weather conditions. At the same time, you must be able to carry your own luggage, sometimes up and down stairs. Daypacks: Your daypack should be large enough to hold the following items: 1 liter of water, rain gear, lunch/snacks (for the day), sun screen, warm layer (fleece pullover or vest), personal first aid kit, lightweight gloves, warm hat and personal items such as camera, etc. We recommend a daypack with a capacity of between Liters ( cubic inches) with a hip belt, padded shoulder straps, and lifters. Line your daypack with a durable plastic bag to keep your belongings dry and/or have an elasticized pack cover that fits snuggly over it. Before you leave home check to be sure that it is comfortable to wear all day and has sufficient space for all of the items listed above. Note: Fanny-packs and hydration packs are not large enough to hold all of the items you will need for the day. Footwear: Well-fitting, sturdy boots are very important to your safety and enjoyment. If you plan to buy new boots, break them in by wearing them around town and taking some short hikes before your trip. For general hiking, lightweight or midweight cordura or leather boots with a Vibram sole work well. If you have weak ankles or are recovering from an ankle injury, get boots that come above the ankle you ll find that this will give you more support in uneven or slippery terrain. Remember to waterproof your boots before the trip. Even boots billed as waterproof need to be treated with a waterproofing product. Personal First Aid Kit: Bring a small first aid kit with familiar medicine and first aid supplies you might need. Recommendations include the following: blister or foot remedies like moleskin, Compeed, blister bandages, or similar, a small role of duct tape (always useful!), remedies for respiratory ailments, stomach ailments, sore muscles or joints. The guides will have a first aid kit but having what you know works well for you is a good idea. Clothing: The clothing listed on the packing list has been chosen for your specific trip conditions and for its versatility for layering. NO COTTON for your active wear! It should all be made from synthetic/synthetic blends, down/down blends or wool/wool blends. Layering is the most practical and efficient method of insulating the body. Several layers of varied weight materials provide better insulation than one thick Layer of clothing. Also, adding or subtracting layers allows you to adjust to the temperature at your particular level of activity. Rain Gear: You will need a parka or jacket made of a coated nylon or a waterproof/breathable fabric like Gore-tex, HellyTech, Membrane, H2No, or Ultrex. Be sure it keeps water out. Before making this important purchase, be sure that it fits you properly. It should be large enough to fit over all your layers. In particular, the hood needs to be effective. It should shield your face from the rain and turn with your head. Movement of your arms must not interfere with the hood. Put on your daypack; can you still raise your arms? An inexpensive plastic poncho will both leak and tear easily and is not recommended. Hydration: Being able to easily access your water without assistance, so that you can drink frequently, is important to your safety and enjoyment. One method is to have a water bottle attached to your waist strap. Another option is to use a HYDRATION SYSTEM such as CamelBak, Platypus, and MSR bladder bags, which are collapsible water bags with a hose attachment that you drink from. The bags fit inside or outside your pack with the hose positioned over your shoulder so that you can access your water as you hike. Bladder bags can hold 1-3 liters of water. Trekking Poles: Trekking poles are highly recommended for this trip. Trekking poles contribute to your safety by improving your balance and stability, and to your health by saving stress on your hips and knees. If you are not familiar with trekking poles, read this blog post that addresses the most commonly asked questions: