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dpappas87

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I live in California, and I am used to living a pretty fit lifestyle. Recently, I have been a weight loss journey, connecting to my Greek roots and the healthy foods that are part of the Mediterranean diet. Although I wasn't active for a long time, I have found that there are plenty of opportunities where I live in LA. There are a lot of gyms, parks, I go for daily walks, etc.

I am planning my next trip to Greece and I need your advice. How do I stay fit? We are planning to spend a few days in Athens and then do some island hopping. We won't be staying in a hotel with a fitness center. I plan to pack something portable, like my fitness bands, so I can do a quick workout in my room if I need to. Yet, I see that Greeks are very fit. What should I do while in the country? How do Greeks stay fit?

I am older, but in decent shape. I can walk, hike, etc. I was thinking of heading to Crete just so I can hike the Samaria Gorge. I have friend my age who did it and thought it was a great experience. I am open to any advice you can give.
 
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I was thinking about this yesterday. I actually manage to lose weight every time I am in Greece and I almost can't figure out why, because I feel like I am eating all the time - dessert every night, drinks, three large meals a day.

Two factors I think are part of this - the food is super fresh and of a high quality, and I tend to walk A LOT when I am in Greece. Though I usually rent a car, I only seem to use it for road trips, preferring to walk and take taxis in the cities and villages. I must be burning a lot of calories.

I saw, bring fitness bands and use them in your hotel room, but I wouldn't worry too much about it because I bet you'll have no problem maintaining your weight.
 
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I think your idea of going to Crete is excellent. The recreational opportunities are endless and the food is extremely fresh and healthy. My preference is the Chania Prefecture which includes the Samaria Gorge as well as others, the Botanical Gardens, exquisite beaches, and farm-to-table restaurants.
 
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I think your idea of going to Crete is excellent. The recreational opportunities are endless and the food is extremely fresh and healthy. My preference is the Chania Prefecture which includes the Samaria Gorge as well as others, the Botanical Gardens, exquisite beaches, and farm-to-table restaurants.
Oh! I like the sound of this, thank you! I will start researching this area, it seems like there are a lot of opportunities here.
 
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As you explore the Prefecture of Chania, you could spend some nights in the Old Town (all day trips are possible from there) and maybe look into a couple of nights in Loutro on the southern coast. Accessible only by ferry from Sfakia, there are hiking trails across the coast and behind Loutro up to the village of Anopolis where a little further along, you’ll also find the spectacular Aradena Gorge. If you’re tired of hiking by then, Loutro also gives you quick access to the beach of Marmara located at the end of the Aradena. In season, there’s bungee jumping from the Aradena Bridge!?

I’ll stop…you can tell that I’m really fond of Chania! Enjoy your research!
 
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I live in California, and I am used to living a pretty fit lifestyle. Recently, I have been a weight loss journey, connecting to my Greek roots and the healthy foods that are part of the Mediterranean diet. Although I wasn't active for a long time, I have found that there are plenty of opportunities where I live in LA. There are a lot of gyms, parks, I go for daily walks, etc.

I am planning my next trip to Greece and I need your advice. How do I stay fit? We are planning to spend a few days in Athens and then do some island hopping. We won't be staying in a hotel with a fitness center. I plan to pack something portable, like my fitness bands, so I can do a quick workout in my room if I need to. Yet, I see that Greeks are very fit. What should I do while in the country? How do Greeks stay fit?

I am older, but in decent shape. I can walk, hike, etc. I was thinking of heading to Crete just so I can hike the Samaria Gorge. I have friend my age who did it and thought it was a great experience. I am open to any advice you can give.
trust me you will do a lot of walking and I spent a lot of time swimming, of course it would have to be summer to have the warm temperatures. You don't need a gym. You can eat a good diet with vegetables and fruits there and there are a lot of hills to keep you in shape. I am also from CA with a gym membership but did not miss it at all whiles visiting and didn't gain any weight.
 
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Places to go for the first time in Greece?

A friend of mine is planning her first trip to Greece, and she asked me what she should prioritize for about 10 days. I’ve been lucky enough to go quite a few times, so I gave her a starting point: Athens for the history, Santorini for the views, and Mykonos for the energy and beaches.

She loved that outline, but she wants to add one more destination to round out the trip. That’s where I started second guessing myself a bit, because there are so many good options depending on what kind of experience she wants.

I was thinking maybe somewhere a little different to balance things out, but I’m curious what others would suggest. If you had 10 days and those three spots already planned, what would be your fourth destination for a first-time visitor?

Which Greek island feels the least touristy in the summer?

I know that July and August are busy almost everywhere in Greece, especially on the more famous islands, but I’m curious about places that still feel relatively local and relaxed even during peak season.

I’m not necessarily looking for somewhere completely empty. I’d just love an island where you can still find traditional villages, local tavernas, quieter beaches, and a slower pace without feeling like the entire island is built around tourism.

Have you visited an island in the summer that still felt authentic and not overly crowded? I’d especially be interested in places where locals still seem to set the rhythm of daily life rather than visitors.

Which island would you recommend, and what made it feel less touristy to you? Was it the beaches, villages, restaurants, fewer cruise ships, or just the overall atmosphere?

Best food towns to visit in Greece?

I’ve started realizing that some of my favorite memories from Greece are connected to food more than anything else. Little tavernas, bakeries, seafood by the water, village meals that seemed simple but tasted incredible. It’s making me think that next time I go to Greece, I’d love to plan at least part of the trip around food.

I’m not fully sure yet if I’ll be going this summer, but I’ve been daydreaming about possible places to visit. What towns or regions in Greece do you think are especially great for food lovers?

I’d love recommendations for places known for traditional cooking, local specialties, seafood, baked goods, or just amazing tavernas in general. Islands, mainland towns, mountain villages — all recommendations are welcome.

Would especially love hearing about places that felt authentic and memorable rather than overly touristy.

Ferry vs flying between islands, what’s better?

I’ve always been a ferry guy when it comes to Greece, something about pulling into a port and seeing the island come into view just feels right. But this trip is a little different because I’m traveling with someone who gets pretty motion sick, so now I’m seriously considering flying between islands instead.

Curious what you guys think, ferry vs flying, what’s actually better?

I know ferries are part of the whole island-hopping experience, and they’re usually more flexible, but I’ve also had a couple rough rides when the water wasn’t calm. On the flip side, flights seem quicker and smoother, but maybe more hassle overall.

If you’ve done both, what would you recommend, especially in a situation like this? Is flying the smarter move, or are ferries still worth it if you plan carefully?

Summer Island Hopping Tips - a Month in July

It’s been a while since I’ve traveled in Greece during peak season, and I’m considering spending about a month there in July. The plan is to split my time between Athens (to visit friends) and hopping to several islands. I’m excited about the energy of summer, but I’m also aware that July can be intense in terms of crowds, heat, and logistics.

For those who have done island hopping in high season, what worked well for you? Is it better to base yourself on one or two islands and take short trips, or fully move around every few days? How far in advance do you typically book ferries and accommodations in July?

I’m also curious about pacing. With a full month, I don’t want to rush, but I also want to make the most of being there. Any tips on routes, balance, or things to avoid during peak season would be really helpful.
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