Let’s be honest here: there’s no country quite like Greece. This sunny paradise, tucked into the underbelly of the Mediterranean, shines with well-founded promises of beautiful beaches, delicious seafood, and historic ruins. It’s the birthplace of many famous intellectuals, such as Plato, Socrates, and Aristotle, and the setting for many, many myths and stories. Greece is truly the stuff of legends. But how do we make the most of our stay there? Fear not — as someone who has gone to Greece more times than I can count, I have consolidated my observations into Three Golden Rules for you to consider.
Rule #1: Don’t be a Sheep
While Santorini and the Cyclades are beautiful, they are also quite touristy. It’s not the authentic Greek experience that many hope for, and certainly not the best Greece can offer. In my opinion, Greece is most beautiful in its simplest, most natural state. A quaint beach, backed by olive vineyards; a small town where old people gather at a bakery at noon to sip on frappés; a main street where kids run back and forth, and cicadas sound somewhere in the distance. Sometimes, these places are found just by going out and exploring! Visit the famous landmarks, like the Acropolis and the Parthenon, but don’t forget to appreciate some of those lesser-known spots, too. You never know what you’ll find in Greece.
Rule #2: Watch Closely. Admire. Learn from it.
Let me tell you the story that inspired this rule. Last summer, my family and I visited this beach in Halkidiki, known for its clear water and coral reefs. Greece is not normally advertised for its coral reefs, so I wasn’t expecting much regarding wildlife. However, after only twenty minutes of snorkeling, I saw something move along the rock — an octopus! It was a small, beige, sweet little thing that glided along the reef undisturbed, even as my arms flailed in the water above it to point it out to my family. In a way, the octopus was a local, teaching me how to live in the moment and appreciate the simple things. This was a surreal experience — one that was free, authentic, and unforgettable.
Rule #3: Good Food, Good Mood
Greece’s cuisine plays just as big a role in your vacation as do its beaches. Eating locally-sourced or produced foods, such as seafood, olives, and figs, is healthy, tasty, and sustainable. If eating out, it can be helpful to ask the locals for a restaurant recommendation. As for meals, some of my personal favorites include tzatziki, calamari, souvlaki, and baked feta cheese with honey or jam. For dessert, I like baklava, loukoumades, and ice cream — of course!
With so much to offer, it can be hard to decide how to spend your time in Greece. But, if you stay open to new experiences, listen to the locals (even if they are octopuses!), and taste classic meals, you’re bound to have an amazing experience!
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