14 Day Athens, Peloponnese & Cyclades Islands
From
$3799
Land Only
$4749*
Air & Land
Featured Hotels
| 14 Day Athens, Peloponnese & Cyclades Islands | ||
|---|---|---|
| Amalia Hotel | Athens | |
| Olympion Asty Hotel | Olympia | |
| The Flower of Monemvasia Hotel | Monemvasia | |
| Amalia Hotel Nauplion | Nauplion | |
| Paros Agnanti Hotel | Paros | |
| Naxos Resort Beach Hotel | Naxos | |
| Porto Naxos Hotel | Naxos | |
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Book By Dec 14, 2023 & Save!
| 2024 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $650 | ||||||||
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| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land | ||
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$4049 | $4649 | $4909* | $5509* | ||||
| $3849 | $4449 | $4749* | $5349* | |||||
| $3849 | $4449 | $4909* | $5509* | |||||
| $3899 | $4499 | $4959* | $5559* | |||||
| $3799 | $4399 | $4859* | $5459* | |||||
| $3849 | $4449 | $5109* | $5709* | |||||
| $3949 | $4549 | $5289* | $5889* | |||||
| $4149 | $4749 | $5349* | $5949* | |||||
| $3999 | $4599 | $5199* | $5799* | |||||
| $3999 | $4599 | $5199* | $5799* | |||||
| $3899 | $4499 | $5099* | $5699* | |||||
Not Included:
Gratuities.
Additional Information:
Land only price does not include arrival/departure transfers.
Passengers traveling abroad require a passport valid for six months beyond their travel dates. All travelers are responsible to check if a visa is required for all countries on their itinerary. For visa information, check our Visas page.
Is This Trip Right for You?
Package Includes
- Small groups of maximum 22 travelers guaranteed
- Round trip flights New York-Athens, Athens-New York
- Other departure cities available. Click on date of departure for selection and prices
- Airline taxes & fuel surcharges
- Intra-flight Athens-Mykonos
- 12 nights accommodations
- 3 nights Athens
- 1 night Olympia
- 2 nights Monemvasia
- 2 nights Nauplion
- 2 nights Paros
- 2 nights Naxos
- Hotel taxes, fees, & service charges
- Hotel porterage
- All transfers included only with airfare purchase on package arrival & departure datesâ€
- Ferry Mykonos-Paros, Paros-Naxos & Naxos-Athens
- 25 meals: 12 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 6 dinners
- Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned vehicles
- Services of local English-speaking tour manager throughout
- Comprehensive, guided sightseeing and entrance fees per itinerary
- Active itinerary with unique cultural features
Tour Highlights
Thanks to our small group size, we can get to the heart of our destination, visit places that other tours miss, and get to know the locals.
- Explore the Acropolis, an ancient architectural masterpiece and visit the Acropolis Museum
- Visit the archaeological site of Olympia, birthplace of the Olympics
- Enjoy a cooking demonstration led by a chef who shares his culinary secrets
- Discover the historic mountain villages of Dimitsana and Stemnitsa
- Tour the medieval Monemvasia Castle, perched on a massive rock
- At the Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil, learn about the culture and history of olive oil production
- Visit the picturesque town of Nauplion, the first capital of modern Greece
- Tour the 4th century BC Theater of Epidaurus, world-famous for its exceptional acoustics
- In Mycenae, heartland of Greek mythology, visit the Acropolis of Mycenae and the Treasury of Atreus
- Discover the beautiful Cycladic islands of Paros and Naxos
†Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates
Is This Trip Right for You?
This program is moderately active. Walking is done over cobbled streets, uneven surfaces, stairs, steps and significant slopes. For touring days, expect most of the sightseeing to require three to four hours of walking as well as a considerable time standing. Many historical cities have specific driving regulations, with set drop off and pick up points, that result in extra walking to and from the sights. Due to strict regulations at ferry ports, porterage cannot be provided and passengers will be required to carry their luggage on and off the ferry. Caution needs to be taken when embarking and disembarking, as passengers and cars use same gangway. The ferry service is weather dependent. Ferry may stop at other islands on the way to your final destination. The pace is moderate as numerous sites are included. This is a Small Group program. For more information, click here.
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Discovery Tours itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently.
This first class hotel is located in the heart of the city, just off Constitution Square facing the National Gardens.
Hotel Details
This tourist class hotel is located in Naxos, just a short walk from the beach of Saint George.
Hotel Details
- Tours purchased while travelling may cost an extra 10% or more
- Tours often sell out. Avoid disappointment
- Save your cash. Credit card processing may not be possible locally
- Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure
- Book Online or call to book these tours up to 1 week before your departure
- The day the optionals operate varies by the day of the week
| Know Before You Go | |
| Although most of the planning and preparation is taken care of for you, there are still a few things you should know and some details you should take care of to ensure your comfort, safety and peace of mind. Please review the following information before your departure to ensure that any surprises along the way will only be pleasant ones. |
| Getting Ready to Go |
| Passports and Visas |
| It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the dates of travel and a visa if required. Please check the information at www.gate1travel.com/visas.aspx for the specific country/region you are visiting for more details. IMPORTANT: Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passengers who enter, leave and then re-enter the same country on their itinerary should check if they require a double-entry visa. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies. Passengers requiring visas, whether obtained in advance or locally upon arrival, should ensure that their passport has blank pages.
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| Trip Preparation |
| A little pre-planning can make your trip go a lot smoother. Several weeks before your trip, make a list of what you will need to take with you. Make sure your personal documents (passports, visas, driver's license) are in order. Make sure also that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip and carry them with you in case your luggage is delayed. Bring a change of clothes in your carry-on bag in the event that your luggage is delayed or lost. Lost luggage is common. We strongly urge you to consider carry-ons instead of checked bags when possible, and when checking a bag is necessary, choose a bag color and identification that stands out. We suggest that you make photocopies of passports, visas, personal ID and any other important travel documents and pack them separately from the originals. You may also make a digital copy of your passport to keep a clear picture with the important details in your cell phone or digital camera photos. If you lose the originals while traveling, you'll have copies for easier reporting and replacement. Pack a list of medications including dosage and generic names. You may consider bringing a small supply of over the counter medications for headaches and/or anti-diarrhea pills (especially when traveling outside of the USA and Western Europe). We recommend that you pack a portable alarm clock. Due to security reasons, many museums have restrictions on the size of bags that can be taken inside and backpacks, carry-on bags or large purses may not be permitted. It is recommended to bring a small shoulder bag or purse to use in these situations instead. Avoid placing valuables such as cameras in your checked luggage. Airplane pressure can cause similar pressure in your body, most notably in ears, as well as liquid tubes and bottles. Your physician can suggest medication for decongestion. We suggest that you place liquid containers into Ziploc bags to catch any leaks. |
| Greek Islands - Do not overpack. The Greek Islands are very casual, and the tour requires only that you be comfortable. There will be no occasions for business, cocktail or formal attire. Porterage is not included and most hotels do not have elevators, so travel light. You will enjoy your trip more with less luggage to carry. Bring rubber soled walking shoes for visits to archaeological sites and clothes that can be layered. Avoid packing valuable items such as jewelry. |
| Travel Safety Advice: The safety of our guests is Gate 1’s #1 concern. Before making the decision to reserve your vacation, we want you to be aware of potential situations which may impact your holiday. While most of the time our programs run precisely according to plans, on rare occasion force majeure events including weather, transportation mechanical issues, or uninhabitable accommodation, civil unrest and even criminal or terrorist activities will present themselves unexpectedly and with little or no notice. Gate 1 will make the decision to cancel a tour only after receiving verifiable government issued information. We are otherwise obliged to comply with contractual airline and vendor agreements and carry out the tour until or unless we are advised otherwise. In the event of such an occurrence anytime after your date of departure, Gate 1 and the local destination ground staff, in coordination with government advisories, airlines, hotels, cruise ships and other vendors, will make decisions with regard to your safety first. We strongly recommend that tour participants review the destination country's specific information at https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings.html. |
| Travel Protection |
| Even the best-planned trips can be impacted by the unexpected. And that is why we recommend that you help protect yourself and your investment by purchasing Travel Protection for your Gate 1 trip. Travel Protection can help with medical coverage for illness or injury, trip cancellation and/or interruption, baggage loss, medical evacuation, and more. At any time before you complete Final Payment, you may choose to purchase Travel Protection. The protection plan premium is non-refundable after a 10-day review period. In addition, you must be medically able to travel at the time the premium is paid. For a summary of the plan details on coverages, benefits, limitations and exclusions, please refer to the Description of Coverage by visiting www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit (CFAR) is a non-insurance feature that allows you to cancel up to 72 hours before your scheduled departure for any reason not otherwise covered in the Travel Protection Plan. CFAR must be purchased at the same time as the Travel Protection Plan as well as within 21 days of the original booking date. Independent or escorted tour reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to the full cost of your trip, less the cost of initial deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. Sea or river cruise reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to 50% of the cost of your trip, less the cost of initial trip deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. All CFAR credits are valid for a period of two years from the original date of travel. CFAR Credits have no cash value and are not transferrable. Airline-assessed fees are generally $300 per person, but may be as much as fully non-refundable. Some non-refundable airline tickets may retain value, less airline-assessed fees. Your future air credit must be used to book with the same airline. Deadlines to rebook and complete travel vary by airline and may be as early as 12 months from when the tickets were originally issued (not the date of travel). For details, www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. This program does not apply to custom groups and Antarctica cruises. Residents of New York, Missouri & Minnesota may purchase this Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit separate from Travel Protection. Call to speak with a reservation agent for details. This Cancel for any Reason Wavier Benefit is not insurance and is provided by Gate 1 Travel. |
| Mobile Phones |
| Mobile networks differ from country to country. We recommend you check with your provider to see if your wireless plan will work in the destination(s) you are visiting. To avoid possible roaming charges, you may want to consider purchasing an international plan. With most major phone companies, for a modest fee, you will be able to use your domestic plan's talk, text, and data allowances just like you do at home. If you can access the internet while you travel, you can also take advantage of services such as WhatsApp or Skype. |
| Making Telephone Calls from One Country to Another |
| When dialing a number from one country to another, you should proceed as follows: dial your country's Exit Code (often indicated with a “+” sign), then the destination Country Code, then the Phone Number. For most countries, the exit code is 00. Exceptions include the USA and Canada (011), Hong Kong and Cambodia (001), Australia (0011), and Russia (8 Pause 10*). For Brazil, please consult with the local telephone company. If you are dialing from a mobile phone, you can enter a “+” instead of the international Exit Code (011, 001, 0011 or 00) by pressing and holding the 0 key. For most countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, South America and South Pacific, if you are calling from a local phone to a number within the same country, you should drop both the exit and country codes and then add a leading 0 (zero). Exceptions include Spain, Italy, Hungary and Malta (no additional zero needed to dial locally). Example: To dial the following number in Germany (as listed on your voucher): +(49) 0555-555 From USA or your US cell phone: 011-49-555-555 From another country in Europe: 00-49-555-555 From a German phone within Germany: 0555-555 |
| WiFi Access |
| WiFi is available in most airports, hotels, and cruise lines, as well as on some flights, trains, and buses. There may be a fee for access and service quality and speed may vary greatly especially while on moving vehicles. Availability on cruises is also dependent upon its location while sailing through multiple countries. Please note that WiFi can be extremely slow, unreliable, and sometimes nonexistent in developing countries. |
| Staying Healthy While Traveling |
| All travelers should familiarize themselves with local conditions, such as high altitude or required immunizations, which could affect their health. We recommend you consult with your personal healthcare provider, the Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov) and/or the World Health Organization (http://www.who.int/en/) for their recommendations. There are several easy steps you can take to stay healthy while traveling which may help prevent contracting an illness while away from home.
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| Notice on Aircraft Cabin Insecticide Treatment - Please note that some countries may require aircraft cabin insecticide treatment for in-bound foreign flights. A list of such countries is available at:
http://www.dot.gov/office-policy/aviation-policy/aircraft-disinsection-requirements. |
| Consideration for Tour Participants (Escorted Tours) |
For the benefit of all tour participants, we ask tour members to be considerate of their fellow travelers in the following ways:
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| Climate & Clothing |
| Greece - Spring: 60°F-80°F; Summer: 85°F-95°F; Autumn: 60°F-80°F; Winter: 40°F-50°F Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer, and an all-weather coat. Some religious sites may require modest dress code to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Long pants are required for men, a long skirt covering the knees is required for women, and shoulders are required to be covered. On cruises, daytime dress code is casual (shorts and t-shirts for example), however swimsuits are not allowed in public areas or restaurants, except for the lunch buffet on deck. The majority of evenings on board are country club casual. There will be one formal evening on the 4 day, 5 day, and 7 day cruise, which will be indicated on the daily program. A suit and tie are suggested for gentlemen, and a cocktail dress or pantsuit suggested for women. Greece Average Temperatures: https://www.gate1travel.com/weather/mediterranean/default.aspx#greece-weather |
| About Drones |
| Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) or “drone” technology has quickly become affordable and is increasingly popular with recreational users. While some countries have clear, established drone laws, others do not, or existing regulations are undergoing review and change. Travelers who wish to bring a drone on their trip are responsible to research and abide by the laws and regulations of the countries they are visiting, as well as to check with their airline(s) regarding their rules for transporting drones. Please note that tours are unable to extend the length of scheduled visits and stops to accommodate use of drones. |
| Book & Film Recommendations |
| Many of our guests enjoy reading about their destination - either in advance of their trip or while traveling - as a way of adding context to their visit. Whether reading a traditional guide book, learning about the history and culture, or simply enjoying a fictional novel set in the destination, a good book can add greatly to your experience. Similarly, a good movie set in your destination helps set the mood before you travel. We asked our Tour Managers and staff to recommend books and films which past guests may have enjoyed. The following does not constitute an endorsement of any authors, books or films listed, it is merely a collection of guests' recommendations. |
| GREECE: Books Colossus of Maroussi by Henry Miller The Island by Victoria Hislop The Odyssey by Homer The Summer of my Greek Taverna by Tom Stone Eleni by Nicholas Gage It's All Greek to Me by John Mole Corelli's Mandolin by Louis de Bernieres GREECE: Films Mamma Mia! The Movie (2008) Boy on a Dolphin (1957) Shirley Valentine (1989) Zorba the Greek (1964) Moonspinners (1964) |
| Preparing for Your Trip |
| Seat Assignments |
| As a courtesy service, complimentary airline seat assignments are requested on your behalf and, when available, are displayed in order of Passenger #1, #2 and so on. Assignments reflect the best available seats at the time of booking. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only; in which case the display shows “N/A”. Seats are subject to change by your airline(s) including, for example, when there is a schedule change or equipment change after your initial booking; this may cause seat assignments to be changed or even cancelled. Some airlines offer preferred seating for an additional fee; these seats may only be purchased directly from the airline. You will need your family name and the 6-digit airline “Record Locator” which is displayed with the flight details on your reservation. In the event that you change seat assignments directly with your airline, changes will not be reflected on your invoice or documents. At the time that Gate 1 travel documents are issued, the currently assigned seats will be listed based on the assignments stored in your airline reservation at that time. Should you have questions regarding your assignments, please write to us at www.gate1travel.com/contactus. |
| Luggage & Packing |
| Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62”), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23kg). Smart Bags with a USB charging port, GPS tracking device and other high-tech features are prohibited as checked or carry-on baggage unless the bag is made with removable batteries and the batteries are removed and stored separately. Many airlines charge for checked bags including flights which begin and end within the USA. The most inexpensive airfare options commonly known as Basic Economy airfares do not include any checked bags nor seat assignments before the day of departure. However, for some airlines, other airfare categories also do not include checked baggage. This will be clearly displayed in our airfare selection and on your invoice. Where available, we highly recommend selecting airfares which include at least 1 piece of checked baggage. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for checked bag fees, excess luggage or weight charges levied by an airline. Checked baggage allowances displayed on reservation details and invoices reflect the applicable allowance at the time of booking but are subject to change by your airline(s). For your airline’s requirements and fees, visit www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. For important baggage information, visit www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx. Avoid placing valuables in your checked luggage. Federal law forbids the carriage of hazardous materials aboard the aircraft in your luggage, your carry-on or on your person. A violation can result in five years’ imprisonment and penalties of $250,000 or more (49 U.S.C. 5124). Hazardous materials include explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids and solids, oxidizers, poisons, corrosives and radioactive materials. Examples: Paints, lighter fluid, fireworks, tear gases, oxygen bottles, and radio-pharmaceuticals. There are special exceptions for small quantities (up to 70 ounces total) of medicinal and toilet articles carried in your luggage and certain smoking materials carried on your person. Check the Transportation and Safety Administration (TSA) website www.tsa.gov to find out the current list of acceptable items you may bring on a plane before packing. We recommend that you use brightly colored luggage tags, straps or other identifiers to help you locate you luggage upon arrival or to describe it in the event that it is lost. |
| Greek Islands - Flights between Athens and the Greek islands have a weight restriction for luggage of 44 lbs. per piece of luggage with a limit of one piece of checked luggage per person. Weight restrictions for carry-on luggage varies by carrier. Please ensure your carry-on luggage does not exceed 13 lbs and 45cm x 35cm x 20cm in dimension (including handles, pockets and wheels). This differs from international flight luggage limits and should be taken into account when preparing for your trip. |
| Day of Departure |
| Greek Islands |
| The airline tickets enclosed are for your international flights to/from Athens (provided that you purchased them from Gate 1). You will receive your tickets to the islands and back to Athens in Greece. Please remember to check your luggage through to Athens, Greece. Gate 1 is not responsible for flight delays or missed connections. Should you face this situation, do everything possible to resolve your situation directly with your airline and reschedule the best possible flights. In the unlikely circumstance that your flight is cancelled, you should still go to the airport and insist that the airline protects you by arranging alternative flights. Then, advise Gate 1 Greece about the new arrangements by calling the emergency number in Athens below. |
| Flight Services |
| What to do if You Need Assistance |
Whether you purchased your airfare from Gate 1 Travel or from the airline directly, please bear in mind that Gate 1 Travel does not own nor operate the airline(s), nor the airport facilities where they operate. At times, flying can be a frustrating experience, especially when things do not go exactly as planned, and airline explanations can be confusing or even misleading. Should you face a problem, remain calm and seek assistance either from the airline directly or from Gate 1. Please be aware that in most cases, on the day of your flight(s), airlines pass responsibility for your reservation to their staff at the airport and it is not always possible for Gate 1 Travel to intervene on your behalf, either through our reservations system or directly with your airline. |
| Arrival & Departure |
| Arrival Procedures |
| Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities if necessary and claim your luggage. If your program includes airport arrival transfers, check your voucher for specific instructions, as they vary with every destination. In most cases, you will be met after collecting your luggage or passing through Customs by the local representative who will be holding a Gate 1 Travel sign and/or a sign with your name on it. In some instances you will be instructed to walk a short distance to a transportation counter. The company's name and location will be printed on your voucher. If for any reason you do not connect with the Gate 1 transfer personnel, go to the Tourist Information Desk and ask them to page the Gate 1 Travel representative or phone the number on your voucher. Be wary of airport scammers who offer unwanted assistance. If you are delayed due to lost luggage, phone the number on the voucher or have a companion exit the Customs Area to advise the transfer representative. |
| What To Do When Your Flight Is Delayed |
| Airlines do not share flight manifest information. Therefore, the only way we may learn of a delay or schedule change while you are traveling is from you, the traveler. The sooner you are able to contact one of our offices, the better we can respond. Please refer to the Emergency Assistance instructions on this same document. Gate 1 Travel is only able to guarantee pre-reserved arrival transfers for up to one hour from the scheduled time, no matter the cause. In case you are delayed for any reason, and are unable to follow the instructions on your voucher, please make independent transfer arrangements and retain your receipts. Unused tour services, including transfers and hotel nights are not refundable. Upon you return home you will need to contact your airline and/or insurance carrier to investigate the possibility of reimbursement for any unused tour services. |
| Departure Procedures |
| If your program includes departure transfers, instructions will be stated on your voucher or provided locally. |
| Transfers |
| Due to local traffic and other extenuating circumstances, we ask that you allow 30 minutes from your scheduled transfer time for our representative to arrive. This includes hotel, airport and cruise transfers. Such possible delays are taken into consideration in scheduling transfers and you should therefore have no concerns about arriving late for your tour, flight or cruise. For transfers from a hotel, let the hotel reception desk or concierge know that you are waiting for a transfer. In the case of a missed transfer, reimbursement for your out-of-pocket expenses will be considered provided you obtain a written statement from the hotel's front desk verifying the length of time you waited, and the time you left the hotel, and a receipt for your transportation with time and date. The cost of a transfer is more expensive than hiring a taxi, as a Gate 1 transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or 'dead-leg'. Often the places of call (airports, seaports, hotels) demand entrance and parking fees, where drivers may have to wait for up to an hour. Passengers comfortable hiring a taxi on their own and do not require assistance will save money. |
| Greek Island Transfers - Buses are air-conditioned, although sometimes due to long waits the bus will be warm. Some transfers are provided by taxis. Taxis usually are not airconditioned. Transfer times are approximately as follows: To/ from Santorini Port: Fira area 30 minutes; Kamari area 45 minutes. To/ from Santorini Airport: Fira area 45 minutes; Kamari area 25 minutes. To/ from Mykonos Airport and Port: 10 to 25 minutes. |
| Public Transportation for the Athens Airport and Piraeus Port Metro service between the Athens Airport and the center of Athens, Syntagma Station, is available on the Blue Line and is scheduled every 30 minutes. The cost is 10 Euros per person and journey time is approximately 50 minutes. The Metro runs between 6 AM and 10 PM. There is also a bus service from Syntagma Square to the airport (and vice versa) for 6 Euros. They are scheduled every 10 to 15 minutes, and journey time is approximately 60 to 70 minutes. Buses run 24/7, though from 11 PM till 6 AM, they are running every 30 to 50 minutes. The Suburban Rail Line train runs every 30 minutes between the airport and Larissa Train Station. The cost is 10 Euros per person, and journey time is approximately 50 minutes. A taxi from the airport to the Athens city center costs approximately 35 Euros per taxi during the day. Between midnight and 6 AM, this cost is approximately 50 Euros. Metro service between the Piraeus Port and the center of Athens is available on Metro Line #1 from Omonia Station. The cost is 1.40 Euros per person, and journey time is approximately 30 minutes. A taxi from the center of Athens to Piraeus Port costs approximately 15 Euros, and journey time is approximately 30 minutes. |
| About Your Accommodations |
| Hotels |
| Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, food, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard twin-bedded (two single beds) rooms with private facilities. Special requests such as bed types, smoking preference and connecting rooms are subject to availability. Room selection in all cases, unless otherwise reserved, is strictly at the discretion of the hotel's management on a run-of-house basis. Triple rooms consist of standard twin beds or one double bed plus a sofa/folding bed or cot for third person except in the U.S. and Canada, where triple rooms often consist of two double/queen beds for three persons; where available, a fee may be charged by the hotel for the addition of a cot/rollaway. The number of persons accommodated does not dictate the room size. Although available at most 4 and 5 star hotels, the use of air-conditioning abroad differs greatly from the United States, and is often shut down at night and from the end until the start of the summer months. Some lodges and accommodations in remote regions may not have all of the amenities, such as hairdryer, alarm clock and room service, that you might find in a larger hotel located in a city center. |
| Greek Island Hotels - Greek Island hotels are typically small properties with limited services and staff. The absence of high-rise hotels with modern services is part of the charm of the islands. Some hotels are set back from the beach and there may be a walk to the shoreline. Others may not be within walking distance. Not all hotels are located in the town center and you may find it necessary to hire a local taxi or use public transportation to travel to the town center. Because of limited coach access on some narrow streets, you may have to carry your own luggage between the drop-off point and the hotel. We regret any small inconveniences and assure you they will be limited to situations only when absolutely necessary. While staying in the islands, you will find the atmosphere to be relaxing and easy-going. However, you should still exercise simple common-sense precautions such as locking your room and closing balcony windows while you are out. Do not leave valuables unattended in your room. While sleeping, you may leave windows open but it is customary in Greece to keep shutters closed. |
| Hotel Check-in/ Check-out |
| Hotel check-in time is generally not before 4:00 p.m. and check-out time is prior to noon. If you will be arriving early in the day or departing in the evening, hotels will usually allow you to store your luggage in their luggage room. Ask at the front desk if the hotel can check you in earlier, or let you stay later. |
| At Your Destination |
| Eco & Sustainable Tourism |
| We support global efforts to create a more eco-friendly world, intolerant of any forms of cruelty, abuse and intentional environmental destruction. To that end we ask that our clients maintain a watchful eye as they travel, and report any abuses they may encounter. One of the many benefits of tourism is the shared cultural knowledge and ultimate elimination of negative behavior through education. We rely on your good feedback to enable this element of symbiosis. As you travel and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs. |
| Gratuities |
| Tipping is always a matter of personal discretion. For your convenience, please use the summary below as a guideline for recommended gratuity amounts. Gratuities may be paid in local currency or US dollar equivalent where accepted. Please be aware that tipping is considered by many locals to be a part of their normal remuneration and some may approach you for additional "compensation." There is no need to be intimidated by the request, nor should you feel pressured to pay more than recommended. If you become uncomfortable by any behavior you encounter, please advise your tour manager or phone our local office. Numbers are provided in your documents for your convenience. |
| Suggested Tipping: Escorted Tours |
Tour Manager (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide): US $12 per person per day Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage) : US $7 per person per day, US $4 per half day Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program): US $7 per person per day of sightseeing, US $4 per half day Hotel porters and wait staff: Included |
| Greece - Service charges are generally included in restaurant bills, however it is customary to leave a 10% tip. Also, it is customary to leave coins totaling around one Euro for the busboy. |
| About Your Sightseeing |
| To ensure a pleasant and fair experience for passengers on our escorted tours, there is a mandatory seat rotation policy on our motor coaches which will be organized by your Tour Manager. On river cruises, color-coded group splits may be used for shoreside included and Optional tours. Some buses are equipped with toilet facility, however they are strictly intended for emergency use only and often require the vehicle to stop for safety reasons before use. When travel dates coincide with religious holidays and national celebrations, some monuments and sites may be closed, sometimes without prior notice. On these occasions, escorted touring itineraries may be amended to reflect these closures. Occasionally, during holidays and certain periods, and/or due to other unforeseen circumstances including weather conditions, there may be last-minute changes, sometimes after arrival, which may affect the sequence of the tour and locations visited. National monuments and tourist sites regularly undergo renovations, which can obscure the monument's view. No tour will be canceled due to renovations, however Gate 1 will decide based on the conditions whether to amend an itinerary. To respect the privacy of all tour participants, your tour manager will not organize a group photo or collect passenger email addresses for a group list. |
| Land Only Passengers (Escorted Tours) |
| Your tour manager will contact you after your arrival at your hotel. Passengers who have not purchased arrival transfers from Gate 1 Travel should proceed directly to the hotel for check-in. The details of the hotel can be found in your documents. |
| Purchasing Tours Locally |
| On escorted tours, the guides will generally sell optional tours to passengers who have not pre-purchased them. Payment can be made by cash or credit card, unless otherwise noted below. This does not apply to Independent packages. Please see Gate 1 Terms & Conditions for more information. https://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional |
| Independent Activities - Gate 1 itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently and with due consideration. Gate 1 is not responsible for any activities not expressly included in its programs. Caution should be exercised when selecting certain activities that may require physical strength, coordination or exertion. Particular care should be taken when considering animal rides, such as on camels, mules or horses |
| Greece - The Euro is the currency of Greece. |
| Greece - Credit cards are not widely accepted in restaurants, small shops, museums and archeological sites. |
| Shopping |
| Most people enjoy bringing home at least one souvenir from the countries they visit. However, some find any amount of shopping to be too much while others never find enough opportunities. We have built into our Escorted itineraries a few shopping stops at recommended spots. These stops are designed to enhance your experience by providing an opportunity to see first-hand quality locally crafted merchandise which you may not be able to find on your own. Shops are checked to ensure the quality and authenticity of the products they offer, and we limit guides from visiting other locations. In some cases, we plan these stops to provide an opportunity to use clean bathrooms and to stretch your legs. All shops want your satisfaction, and therefore in case of any misunderstanding they ask that you kindly submit your claim to us within one week of the item's receipt. Claims submitted later will be subject to each store’s policies. While shopping independently, we advise you to exercise care and common sense when making any purchase. Always get a formal receipt. And remember that, just like in this country, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is! About Tax-Free Shopping Tax-Free Shopping allows shoppers to reclaim the VAT (Value-Added Tax) or GST (Goods and Services Tax) they have paid on their purchases in some foreign countries in accordance with restrictions and procedures as dictated by each country. Refund eligibility varies by country, but may require presenting a scanned copy of your passport at the time of purchase, a minimum amount spent, or providing original store receipts. For more details, check the respective country’s online website, with the shop salesperson, with your tour manager or at www.globalblue.com for specific country regulations and airport operation hours. Please keep in mind that you must apply for VAT refund in the airport of the country the items were purchased and allow enough time prior to your flight for the application. U.S. Customs & Shipping Charges You may carry items with a fair retail value totaling $800 into the U.S. Taxes may be applied to the next $1,000 worth of merchandise. U.S. Customs determines the value of your items, often honoring a genuine sales receipt. Items which are shipped home are always subject to duty when received in the U.S. (in addition to shipping charges). Some shops may offer to include shipping and duties in the price but this typically means shipping only to the customs facility closest to you and payment only of the export duties; you would still need to collect the item and pay U.S. import duties. Please be aware that it is illegal to import products made from endangered animal species. U.S. Customs & Border Protection will seize these items, as well as most furs, coral, tortoise shell, reptile skins, feathers, plants, and items made from animal skins. |
| Greece - Greece offers an array of boutique shopping. Along with traditional handicrafts, honey, and olive oil, Greece is famous for its production of high-end, designer footwear and other fashion accessories. Shops generally open at 9:00, closing in the mid afternoon, and sometimes reopening for a few hours in the evening, from about 5:30 to 8:30. Most major department stores and boutiques are closed on Sunday. |
| Your Safety is Very Important |
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Prior to your trip, if you are traveling overseas, we strongly recommend that you visit the website of the U.S. Department of State at www.travel.state.gov, specifically the section which addresses International Travel. You should read the tips for foreign travel and travel warnings for the country or countries that you plan to visit. It is also important that you do not allow your common sense to take a vacation while on your trip. Here are several tips which, if followed, will save much potential hardship:
If you've purchased an escorted tour program, your travel documents will include telephone numbers of local Gate 1 Travel representatives who will do their utmost to assist you in the event of an emergency. The numbers are printed on your Gate 1 Travel vouchers. Please copy the numbers. Once you relinquish the voucher, you will not have this information. Passengers traveling independently should employ the services of hotel concierges and local authorities. |
| Greece - Pick-pocketing is a centuries-old crime. However in Athens, the incident has rapidly increased over the past few years. These crimes are rarely aggressive, however, this warning should not be taken lightly. Pick-pocketing typically takes place in crowded shopping areas, tourist attractions, and while riding public transportation, particularly while traveling on the subway/metro. Take note:
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| Tourist Street Scams |
Pickpockets and thieves can destroy an otherwise wonderful holiday. Be mindful of these precautions to help avoid being scammed or robbed:
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| Local Emergency Phone Numbers |
Greece
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| Languages |
| Greece - Greek is the local language. Limited English is generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Electricity |
| Please note: The U.S. uses 120 volts and you can purchase a converter and transformer at most hardware stores for your 120V appliances. |
| Greece - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Code of Conduct |
| Greece - The Greeks are known for their relatively relaxed approach to life with an emphasis on hospitality, similar to other Mediterranean European countries. The Greek Orthodox Church retains a fairly strong cultural influence. In Greece, politics is considered an acceptable topic of discussion in almost any social situation. As a result, people may attempt to draw you into political discussions, which can include the subject of American politics. Keep in mind that regardless of their political views, most Greeks like Americans themselves very much. Smoking is mostly prohibited in public places except in designated areas. Violations can incur fines. Restaurants have smoking and non-smoking sections, while traditional coffee houses and nightclubs usually allow unrestricted smoking. Casual dress is generally acceptable, though some religious sites require long pants for men and a long skirt covering the knees for women, and for shoulders to be covered. |
| Meals & Dietary Requests |
| Included meals are based on the restaurant's buffet or set menu. Beverages are not included, unless specifically stated. Although special diets like Vegetarian and Vegan are relatively commonplace in the USA, much of the world's menu options are more provincial. Please do not expect to find the variety of food selection outside of the local norm. Every effort will be made to honor special dietary requests selected no later than 5 days prior to departure in the passenger details section of your reservation. In addition, we recommend that you make preferences known to your tour manager upon arrival, and at each hotel/restaurant. Special requests are subject to local conditions and availability and cannot be guaranteed. |
| Greek Islands - While it is generally safe to eat fully cooked meats and vegetables, care should be taken to avoid undercooked meat and uncooked fruits and vegetables. Tap water is not potable in the Greek Islands, it is recommended that visitors drink only bottled water or water that has been boiled and filtered. Avoid ice, as it is usually made from tap water. |
| Holidays |
| On public holidays, there may be reduced public transportation, as well as limited hours or closures of attractions, shops and restaurants. |
| Holidays - Greece |
Holidays 2023 Jan 1: New Year's Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Feb 27: Ash Monday Mar 25: Independence Day Apr 14: Orthodox Good Friday Apr 16: Orthodox Easter Apr 17: Orthodox Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day Jun 5: Day of the Holy Spirit Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Oct 28: Ochi Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Synaxis of the Mother of God Holidays 2024 Jan 1: New Year's Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Mar 18: Orthodox Ash Monday Mar 25: Independence Day May 1: Labor Day May 3: Orthodox Good Friday May 5: Orthodox Easter Sunday May 6: Orthodox Easter Monday Jun 23: Orthodox Whit Sunday Jun 24: Orthodox Whit Monday Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Oct 28: Ochi Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Synaxis of the Mother of God All offices, stores and some sites or museums are closed on these days. The Plaka area is open year round, except for the morning of New Year. |
There are not enough words in the English or Greek vocabulary to describe the joy that we feel for the experience we had with Gate 1's Discovery trip entitled, "Greece, the Birthplace of Civilization " and our guide, Sofia with bus driver, Lambrious! Sofia is by far the best guide we have EVER had with all our travels!!!!! Descriptive words: EXTREMELY knowledgeable ; thorough; flexible; thoughtful; kept everything on schedule; well timed on events; cared for individual needs -- we would give her an A+++ !! She, and gate one provided a Marvelous trip with a variety of classic Greek history, glimpses of Greek agriculture, and sumptuous views of Greek's natural beauty! Additionally, we were soo impressed with her choices of restaurants offering a wide variety of miss out on this trip- especially if you can do it with Sofia and Lamprious!!
Joyce L.
My Discovery Tour, Greece, The Birthplace of Civilization, was sensational. The Manager, Militsa was super over the top outstanding in every way imaginable. She was provided everything that was required and beyond. She provided a Welcome Letter with 4 pages of Greek info. She provided us with a handout of important Greek language phrases to use during the trip; a handout of historic Greek symbols; a 9 page timeline of Greek history; a poem by C. P. Covafy; a small map of Greece showing us our route and the cities we would visit; she used her own time to highlight in orange marker the route of the trip on my large Michelin Greek road map. Her knowledge and passion for Greek history and culture was outstanding. She created a family atmosphere for all of the trip participants. We visited several locations during the tour that were personal favorites of Militsa that she shared with us. She answered any and all questions. If anyone had a problem with the hotel rooms or the meals, Militsa was quick to fix the difficulty. Provided details about Greek culture: about the family, weddings, military service, religion. food, education and many aspects of Greek life. She provided information about your own life and family. I have been on 7 Gate 1 trips and I cannot remember any other tour manager meeting everyone on the final departure morning. Militsa was there at 4, 5 and 9:30 to see that everyone got off safely to the airport. I cannot provide enough compliments for Militsa. Our coach driver Mario was superb. It was amazing how he guided the coach through the narrow streets. Our hotel in Corfu was at the top of a reverse 'S' narrow driveway with no turn around which required the coach to be backed down the curved driveway. I was amazed how easily Mario did that multiple times during our visit to Corfu. All of the scheduled stops for the tour were excellent. I particularly enjoyed the Macedonian tombs at Vergina. The meteora Monasteries and Corfu were more than I expected. Really enjoyed the honey farm and olive oil farm in Olympia. For the first time on a tour I purchased wine to take home from the Theotoky Estate. I think Gate 1 could expand the stay at Nauplion to enjoy more of the town but that probably could be said about each of the towns we only had a 1 night stay in. The hotels and restaurants were superb. Militsa explained that the portions were going to be large. She was correct. All of the restaurants had fantastic breakfast buffets. I have no complaints regarding the meals during the tour. All of the hotels were excellent. I had a comfortable room in all of the hotels. There were some comments about the Divani Meteora Hotel being somewhat dated but I had no problems. All of the hotel's staff were excellent. I cannot say enough about how much I enjoyed my trip.
Leroy H.
The trip was excellent. Greece is a fascinating country. Sophia, the tour guide/manager, was superb. She said that she had 40 years of work experience and it showed. She was thoroughly knowledgeable, she gave interesting and informative information, she had a good sense of humor, she answered all questions very completely by us, she showed warmth and personality, and she took very good care of the people in our group. I was very impressed by her and feel lucky to have had her as my tour guide/manager. She is the best tour guide/manager I have ever had. She sets a high bar of excellence by which I will judge tour guides/managers on my future trips.. I will likely say, "This person is very good but not quite as good as Sophia." The hotels were excellent. They were very clean and in good condition. The hotel personnel were very friendly and hospitable. The bus driver was excellent. He could drive the large bus down narrow streets and make it seem like he was driving a Volkswagon Beetle. Besides Sophia, what impressed me was that the trip had very enjoyable side activities besides just seeing the tourist highlights and museums. I enjoyed the visits to the honeybee farm, the winery, and the olive oil factory. I enjoyed having dinner and conversing with the four young Greek people. I am definitely planning to take more Gate1 tours. Thank you for asking. If Sophia can be rewarded with a bonus, please see that she gets it.
Clifford L.
My trip to Greece was one of the best Gate 1 trips that I have ever taken in my 30 years of traveling. It takes a Tour Guide who has all the great qualities needed to excel...supreme knowledge of her country, culture, history, people, food, music, and more. Demetra is that Tour Guide. How fortunate that I had Demetra as my Gate 1 Tour Guide. Demetra's love for her country and people clearly showed, and thus, enveloped me as well. Also our Driver Plato was an amazing driver as he maneuvered our bus through narrow passages! Many Thanks Gate 1 for this beautiful and historical trip to Greece that was truly one of my best trips ever!
Kathleen S.
Small group - lots of room on the bus, lots of places could accommodate us vs. a large group. We went to small and beautiful towns throughout Greece - places that were not overrun by tourists - places that most people have not heard of. Loved the Edessa Waterfalls where we could walk behind the water fall. Loved the Meteora Monasteries (before going there - I was so - so as to it being on the itinerary but once we got there - it was a highlight. Enjoyed the boat ride to Bourtzi. Of course the Acropolis is stunning - our guide got us there early in the a.m. to miss the crowds. The restaurants had great food, some had amazing views like one in Delphi where we overlooked a beautiful valley, and another in Kalambaka at the base of Meteora rocks Our hotels were lovely. Our tour guide was AMAZING! Her name was Maria. She had SO much knowledge of archeology, Greek history, Greek mythology, and she connected all the dots. She enriched our trip immensely.
Patricia S.
Absolutely wonderful time! We introduced 4 other friends to Gate 1 and they were so happy with every part of our trip. Our guide was so knowledgeable able to handle the guest with courteousness and excellent management of time. Angelina was wonderful in creating a fun cohesive group of travelers she took into consideration the needs of individuals. Our guide made the trip what it was! Another fabulous Gate 1 trip.
Michelle T.
It was a great trip. As a first timer with Gate1, we were very happy with both the Birthplace of Civilization trip and the Independent trip to Santorini and Mykonos. Angeliki was a consummate professional guide. We intend to travel with Gate1 again.
Gary W.
We returned from our Greece trip a week ago with many memories and good times. This was our first Gate 1 travel experience. We filled out the survey, but we wanted to compliment our tour manager, Miritsa and our bus driver George. We don't know how there could be a more knowledgeable, energetic, and passionate tour manager than Miritsa! She was very professional and courteous in everything she did. George was also an awesome professional skilled bus driver. We were so impressed how he maneuvered the bus and kept the bus immaculate all the time both inside and out. We always felt very safe with George as our bus driver. We had a blast on our trip and learned so much because of Miritsa and George's efforts. Although this was our first Gate 1 travel, it won't be our last. We're looking to book an Ireland adventure next year. Miritsa and George should be recognized for the awesome work they do!!
David P.
Our guide Eva is a passionate lover of Greek history! As someone who has read and studied much about Greece, I can say that she wove old stories with new insights and made the centuries fade away. She made everything so seamless and easy. She encouraged us to get to know her and each other. I feel like I have made several lifelong friends, including Eva, on this tour. I can highly recommend this tour for anyone who wants greater insight into the heroes of history and myth. (Oh, and the shopping is good too!) I'll be going on more Discovery/Small Group tours in the future!
Kathryn C.
Our tour guide in Greece, Militsa, was an exceptional guide. Not only her knowledge of the history of Greece, Greek Mythology and how they impacted the rest of our culture, but her ability to herd our group around. She not only kept us together the best she could, but if stairs or hill climbs were too difficult for some, she gave them viable alternatives. Also her instructions as to when and where to meet back up worked 100% of the time. Prior to entering a monastery, church, ruin, restaurant, or pedestrian area, she prepared us as to rules, customs, expectations, especially as it related to Covid. On the bus she made sure we stayed masked and if someone forgot, she nudged them back into compliance. And 100% of our group tested negative at the end of the tour! Loved loved this trip
Vickie S.
It was wonderful! We loved every bit of it! Great tour manager ( Ya), great local guides, great itinerary and great accommodations and wonderful foods. We couldn't be happier with our tour. Thanks for your help in arranging this Gate 1.
Mary Beth & Tom B. Burlington, VT
Our trip with Gate 1 through Cambodia, Thailand, Laos and Vietnam was excellent. The accommodations were great and our tour guide was outstanding.
Ralph G. Jacksonville, FL
Well, I can't say enough good things! It was the best trip ever. Our first Discovery tour. We have had excellent tour guides with Gate 1 and other companies, but Jenny was by far the best! She was so knowledgeable, kind, caring, engaging, and fun. We especially loved the hotel in Athens but all the hotels were good. We enjoyed all of the meals and loved the students who joined us for dinner in Athens. What amazing young people. Greece is now our favorite trip! Looking forward to planning our next Gate 1 trip.
Sharon & Stephen L. San Luis Obispo, CA
It was a great trip! The guide, Yainni, was fantastic and the driver had nerves of steel! I do not plan to drive myself in Athens anytime soon. I was astonished at the high level of service provided...picking up bags, clear directions every day, and making sure we were escorted to the airport. Those are tiny examples, but they meant a lot.
Judy K. San Pedro, CA
It couldn't have been better. We can't say enough about our tour guide, Demetra, who anticipated every need of our group and shared the wealth of knowledge she has of Greece and its history, places, and culture. The tour was well designed and gave us what we were looking for regarding the history and beauty of Greece. The exposure to quality local restaurant foods was beyond our expectations. Also exposure to products such as the kumquats and wines was a nice feature of the tours. The hotels and services were more than satisfactory. The pace of the tour assured we wasted none of the precious time set aside for the Greece tour. We also had plenty of opportunity to get to know, enjoy and bond with our fellow travelers. And finally, at the very end when we had to get on a transfer vehicle to the airport at 4AM, Demetra was there to make sure the connection was working for us and fellow travelers and to wish us a warm farewell. We would do a tour with Gate 1 and Demetra anytime we can arrange for one in the future.
Larry and Helen T. Suffolk, VA
Our trip was really great. We enjoyed the Gate 1 customer experience for the first time and were impressed by the way the trip was planned. Most importantly, Demetra our tour guide was exceptionally good. With her knowledge and professionalism, she made our vacation quite memorable. She is the best travel guide we have had so far.
Shrikant N. Kendall Park, NJ
We had a wonderful time. Our tour manager, Yainni, was terrific. He made the trip informative and fun. The hotels were great and we loved the food. The surprise cooking and dancing lesdon was so much fun. Thanks for another ( my 14th) awesome Gate 1 trip.
Gabriele D. New Hope, PA
We had a wonderful time. Our trip through Greece was sensational and we were very happy with the choice of hotels and restaurants– the food and wine were so delicious. The Gate 1 Guide, Millitsa, was excellent and she kept us informed and helped us have the most informative and entertaining time. There were only 14 of us on the trip and we all got along very well (only us from Australia and the others from US). This was our third Gate 1 trip this year and we very much appreciate the standard of service which Gate 1 provides.
Pauline G. Canberra, Australia
We had a great trip. Sophia, our guide was amazing. She had an endless knowledge of Greek history and culture and was able to relate it to all the things we saw. George, the bus driver was a careful driver and a gentleman. The trip went smoothly and the group size was great. This was our first discovery tour, although we have traveled many times with Gate 1, and I am sure we will do this again.
Debbie N. Nova Scotia, Canada
Wow...wow...wow! I can't begin to tell you how much I enjoyed Greece! What a perfect trip! I loved every minute! First, our guide Effie was amazing and made everyone feel at home! She was so informative about everything and the history was mind boggling! She made my trip even better by making sure my food was perfect and I felt even more special! The bus driver, George, was friendly and efficient ...The hotels were so first class and spectacular! The scheduled events included several new adventures everyday! ... The people of Greece were so warm and friendly and you should be so proud how Effie represents your company so wonderfully! We learned how to Greek dance and loved the food! Thank you for one of the best trips...they get better and better!
Linda M. Los Angeles, CA
FABULOUS!! Sophia was absolutely wonderful & a wealth of knowledge. We all were amazed at her abilities regarding all the history at each location we stopped at, including the Acropolis Archaeology Museum. You are very fortunate to have her as your guide. Also, Christos is an excellent driver. He is very skilled at getting into surprisingly small spaces with our huge bus. We all appreciated his assistance with our travel around Greece. Great trip.....many highlights!!!
Cheryl H. Lakewood, CO
Trip was great, greatly organized, very nice hotels, great food and our driver Plato was outstanding and who really made this trip superior, was our tour guide Chris. He is so knowledgeable a good storyteller. Altogether wonderful experience.
Zdena V. Fair Lawn, NJ.
Our Gate 1 trip to Greece was very satisfactory, in line with all our other great past experiences with Gate 1. Please note for your management team that our Tour Guide Manager Militsia was one of Gate 1 's best. This trip definitely exceeded our very high expectations!
Theresa T. Marlton, NJ
The trip to Greece was fantastic and I would recommend it to anyone. Jenny, our tour guide, was the best tour guide I've ever had and I've taken many tours with various companies. She's extremely knowledgeable and also very conscious of her travelers' needs. I recommend her highly. I truly believe it was because of her, her knowledge and guidance that made the trip so enjoyable. She's a real asset to Gate 1 in Greece.
Nancy M. New York, NY
Greece trip was wonderful. The tour was excellent and Jenny was a fantastic guide. All of the sites we visited were incredible and very interesting.
Mark I. Spring, TX
Our trip to Greece was wonderful! Militsa, our tour guide, and Christos, our driver were both helpful, engaging and very knowledgeable--Militsa's commentary on the sites we visited was just what we wanted--historical perspective peppered with her enthusiasm for her country and its beauty. I would recommend this tour to all who want to learn about Greece--past and present!
Bettina S. Atascadero, CA
We had such a wonderful time time on our small group tour to Greece. As it turned out there only 11 on the tour plus our bus driver George and guide Eugenia. Being so small, we were able to be flexible. Everyone got along wonderfully. The weather was beautiful, the sea too and oh my the food was out of this world. Every place/stop we went was so interesting. Eugenia was very knowledgeable and passionate about her country. I believe two of favorite things about the tour was eating in the homes of Greeks and their families, actually living the Greek culture. Such for for everyone. Eugenia & George were such a great team, they worked very well together & got along so well. Both were very polite, accommodating, and personable. George at every stop was there to help everyone off & on the bus. Something I noticed at sites that other tour drivers didn't do. George too was very friendly and fun to be around. His driving was impeccable and driving that huge coach in Greece was no easy task. We felt very safe. Eugenia, I don't know where to start on how wonderful she was. Wealth of knowledge, always smiling, very friendly, willing to lend a helping hand, and very professional. She was just plain fantastic. A truly lovely gal. In closing, I will again sing Eugenia & George's praises. Hoping someday, our paths will cross again.
Kim W. Houston, TX
Our trip was very good! Our tour guide (Demetra) was excellent and we learned so much about Greek history and past and present Greek culture. I certainly recommend this trip to others.
Douglas B. Danville, PA