Greek Getaway

What?

Greece?

Now?

You Bet!!  Don't let the few protests in Athens' Syntagma Square discourage you. This postage stamp area of square footage might be the flashpoint for angry citizens occasionally getting out of hand protesting austerity measures by the Greek government in the attempt to not default on their massive loans (debt), but Greece is still hoppin', fun, and one of the most beautiful countries in the world.

A trip to the islands especially is a journey worth taking. And if you can afford two weeks or more, it'll be a trip you'll never forget. Whether you like to party or just relax (or a little of both) there are several islands that will remain etched in your memory for a lifetime. It really depends on what suits your fancy.  Why at least two weeks? Because like anywhere in Europe, if you allow, Greece can easily become a working trip. Like the old saying "so much to do, so little time."

Bottom line is...you'll need some downtime. I'm not kidding. Americans, expect a day or two for your body clock to adjust to the time change. You may suddenly wonder why you're wide awake at 4AM on your third day there. It happens.

Anyway, here are a few islands you might want to check out:

Mykonos offers little for the traveller seeking historical antiquities. However, it's a party island like no other. Great beaches with crystal clear water, spectacular views and of course it's famous windmills.

Santorini, arguably he most beautiful of all the islands is known for it's steep cliffs and breathtaking sunsets. And there's plenty for the historian in the group.

Rhodes is the second largest of the Greek islands behind Crete and loaded with history. Its also a bit off the beaten path. There are many great beaches on the island and some nifty little "not so secret" island attractions like the Valley of the Butterflies where thousand of butterflies take to the air in a spectacular arial display.

Mainland Greece.  A favorite destination my family never misses is the port city of Naufplion. This was the first capital of Greece. The old section of the city directly on the Aegean Sea is stunning with it's Palamidi Fortress overlooking the city and the "floating" castle known as Bourdzi. Some wonderful restaurants can be found for authentic home cooked Greek meals. Try Karamanlis right on the water for dishes just like Yia Yia (grandma in Greek) used to make.

When do you go??

Spring, Summer and early Fall is the best time to go to Greece. Personally I love late May and Mid September. But don't take my word for it. Here's some tips from the folks at JustGreece.org

The climate in Greece is characteristic of the Mediterranean climate: mild and rainy winters, relatively warm and dry summers and, generally, extended periods of sunshine throughout most of the year. A great diversity of climate subtypes, always within the Mediterranean climate frame, are encountered in several regions of Greece. This is due to the influence of topography (great mountain chains along the central part and other mountainous bodies) on the air masses coming from the moisture sources of the central Mediterranean Sea. Thus the weather in Greece varies from the dry climate of Athens and East Greece in general, to the wet climate of Northern and Western Greece. 

In climatological conditions, the year can be approximately subdivided into two main seasons: The cold and rainy period lasting from mid-October until the end of March, and the warm and dry season lasting from April until September. 

In summer, dry hot days are often calmed by stiff breezes, especially in the north and coastal areas. Athens can be very hot, so visitors should allow time to acclimatize. The evenings are cool. Winters are mild in the south but much colder in the north. Lightweight clothes during summer months, including protection from the midday sun. Light sweaters are needed for evenings. Rainproofs are advised for autumn. Winter months can be quite cold, especially in the northern mainland, so normal winter wear will be required. 

Greece in May

The weather is terrific - pleasantly warm, light breezes. If you go to shopping you will find that the prices are low and moderate. The events of this month are May 1st (a national labor holiday) and Greek Orthodox Easter. Island hotels and restaurants all open. Boat schedules, air schedules increase. This is a great time to go. 

Greece in July

The weather is hot to very hot. July in Greece is a busy month, full of events. The main festivals are all in full swing. In the beginning of the month, the wildly popular Rockwave Festival shakes Athens. Arts festivals aimed at tourists, sound and light shows. Outdoor cinemas are popular; many mountain villages have special events primarily attended by Greeks though all are welcome. Ioannina Cultural Summer events begin, continue through August. Along with August, July prices are the highest of the year. Everything is open. The frequent flights and ferries are often crowded but in general, it's easiest to get around at this time of year, though the meltemi may cause some delays. 

Greece in September

The weather is terrific - warm, light breezes. The prices are moderate. Everything is open until the last part of the month, and everything is less crowded. Transportation schedules start to cut back about September 15th. A few places on the islands will close at the end of September. Activities for children start to be cut back as the school year begins.T his is a great time to go. 

For more info on your Greek Getaway... visit: http://www.visitgreece.gr

I'll be back again soon with some more tips on places to visit and things to do in Greece.