THROWBACK SERIES: GREECE

SUMMER 2025: JULY 6TH – JULY 20TH

The second half of our summer travels began with half the group continuing on to Athens, while new travelers traveled from JFK to meet us in Greece. After months of planning, the moment had finally arrived. Both flights were filled with excitement, anticipation, and restless thoughts of the ancient ruins, sun-soaked beaches, and vibrant towns we were about to explore. The moment we landed, the air felt different—warmer, ancient, full of stories.

The first morning in Athens was surreal. We checked into our hotel and immediately immersed ourselves in the city. A short orientation walk introduced us to the heartbeat of the capital, where modern life hummed alongside ancient stones. Cobbled streets, fragrant food stalls, and views of the Acropolis in the distance set the tone. That evening, we enjoyed our first dinner in Greece—grilled souvlaki, fresh feta, and chilled white wine. Exhausted from travel but energized by the setting, we rested up for the days ahead.

We awoke early and enjoyed a traditional Greek breakfast of yogurt, honey, and pastries. The day was devoted to Athens’ historical core. First, we toured The Acropolis Museum, where glass floors revealed ancient ruins beneath our feet and marble statues gazed timelessly into the past. Later, we climbed the hill to the Parthenon, where the sunset painted the ruins in golden light. As night fell, we wandered the lively streets of Plaka, alive with music and the aroma of grilled meats. Athens felt like a city where history refused to stay in the past.

After breakfast, we embarked on a trip to Cape Sounion, located at the southernmost tip of Attica. The drive offered views of the Aegean coastline, and soon, the Temple of Poseidon stood majestically before us, perched on a cliff above the sea. The wind carried whispers of mythology as we explored the temple ruins and took photos. We returned to Athens in the evening, and after dinner, we reached the hotel around 8 p.m., tired but fulfilled.

This day brought a relaxing shift. After breakfast, we headed toward Kalamaki Beach, where the turquoise water and warm sun offered perfect respite. We spent the afternoon browsing local shops, picking up handmade jewelry and artisanal soaps. Dinner in Kalamaki featured fresh seafood, and the sea breeze kept us company as we dined al fresco. We returned to the hotel at 8 p.m., sun-kissed and satisfied.

The next day returned us to Athens’ rich cultural offerings. We began with a historical tour, learning more about the city’s storied past. Museums beckoned once again, this time revealing artifacts from lesser-known corners of Hellenic history. The afternoon was dedicated to shopping—textiles, olive oil, and art prints filled our bags. Dinner in Plaka that evening was lively, and the joy of discovering little treasures made the night unforgettable.

This day offered a slower pace. We took the morning to do some much-needed laundry—a small but satisfying domestic pause amid the adventure. In the afternoon, we returned to Plaka for more shopping. As always, the winding streets, colorful stalls, and friendly shopkeepers added charm. That evening’s dinner marked our final night on land before embarking on our cruise.

After breakfast, we made our way to the port and boarded the Norwegian Viva. We took time in the afternoon to unpack and explore the ship’s vast amenities. Dinner was served at 6:30 p.m. in the elegant dining room. That night, we enjoyed onboard activities—live music, games, and cocktails. A new phase of the journey had begun.

The ship docked in Volos in the morning. After breakfast, we stepped off to explore the coastal city. Volos offered a different slice of Greece—less touristy, more authentic. We walked through local markets, admired neoclassical buildings, and chatted with friendly locals. After returning to the ship, we had another 6:30 p.m. dinner followed by shows and a fun round of karaoke.

This day brought us to the iconic island of Mykonos, known for its whitewashed buildings and vibrant energy. We joined a walking tour that took us through narrow alleys and along windmills overlooking the sea. Shopping in Mykonos was a dream—boutiques filled with chic clothing and bohemian accessories. That evening, we returned to the ship for dinner, a dazzling show, and dancing at the onboard disco.

We arrived early into Santorini, greeted by the island’s dramatic cliffs and blue-domed churches. Breakfast on deck gave us panoramic views of the island. We spent the afternoon exploring Thira, wandering through shops and soaking in views of the caldera. That night, back on the ship, we enjoyed another dinner and joined a lively karaoke night.

We sailed to Bodrum, Turkey, for a change of pace. The old part of the town welcomed us with historical charm—cobblestone streets, ancient ruins, and bustling bazaars. We ventured through the islands nearby before returning to the ship. Dinner and nightly entertainment completed a day full of cultural immersion.

Next came Rhodes, another historic gem. After breakfast, we disembarked to explore the medieval old town with its fortresses and knightly tales. The city was a labyrinth of charm and history. In the afternoon, we shopped and admired artisan crafts. The evening was filled with another delicious dinner and onboard festivities.

Our last port was Heraklion, Crete. The port city offered the perfect chance to buy final souvenirs—ceramics, olive oil, and embroidered linens. The city’s vibrant energy made our farewell dinner aboard the ship feel bittersweet. That night, we packed our belongings and reflected on the incredible places we’d seen.

On our final day, we disembarked and flew from Athens to JFK, departing in the afternoon and arriving in New York in the evening. As the plane ascended, I looked out the window for one last glimpse of the Aegean Sea. This trip had been a dream realized—rich with history, beauty, culture, and unforgettable memories.