1 - 10 of 10 Posts

mj_toronto8

Active member
I would love to know what everyone thinks of these Greek travel tips, and if they are actually true and helpful. I feel like many people have so many biases about different countries, and they can have a completely different perspective from a local or the actual truth. Please let me know what your opinions are in the comments!


 
  • Like
Reactions: Hash
I used to live in Mykonos for many years and work in Tourism.First of all these guys sound genuine and sincere (Believe me!)..... They are factual and correct in their tips.... why on earth did they travel in July/August I will never know?......I received an email from dear friend of mine from the 90s in Mykonos...she says [Amongst other heartbreaking things which I won't post.]
"You may not want to come back. Keep the precious memories of the old Mykonos alive in your mind. Those were the days.
Me, I’m disgusted and disappointed. I do not know where all this is going, but it isn’t good."
Back to the video and booking accommodation (not from apps or Airbnb).... apart from July and August I would travel and stay in rooms, apartments which are sold by locals waiting at the ports with signs and photographs of their rooms.... Even the local onshore travel office....best way to meet with locals, stay with them, cook,eat and share the culture.. Never book any Excursions on the apps!!!.... Book them there after discussing and being satisfied what one is paying and receiving..... Writes he who knows a few things about excursions!?.... Remember that up 40% is added on the price of an excursion and accommodation to keep that OTA in business... The local travel agent is back.... talk to them.... they are really knowledgeable..... they are interconnected with other islands and will make life easier..... about the suncream....a must to buy before hand in large quantities (factors 40+) and travel with including good quality after sun...... As I write the temperatures are soaring towards upper 30°C+... small first aid kit with essentials....beach shoes very important (cheap and cheerful).... learning at least 1or 2 Greek dish from the locals...a lifetime memory!... Never drink Raki like shots!!! ????...I should know when I stayed in Crete one winter picking olives and grapes....we were pissed as parrots drinking Raki all winter long!!??.... Kalley Mera.... about the Gyros....eeeegros...In Mykonos they are selling them for €6.50 ??...a few years ago before we left we used to pay €2.50.Geeeeyro apo olla! enjoy your travels.... hope this is useful....ask me questions which I can answer!>>>>a few years ago before we left we used to pay €2.50 for Gyro....now just for fun there is a place which sells cocktails for €500........and a large glass of beer for €55....
 
Last edited:
  • Like
Reactions: nm1999
I used to live in Mykonos for many years and work in Tourism.First of all these guys sound genuine and sincere (Believe me!)..... They are factual and correct in their tips.... why on earth did they travel in July/August I will never know?......I received an email from dear friend of mine from the 90s in Mykonos...she says [Amongst other heartbreaking things which I won't post.]
"You may not want to come back. Keep the precious memories of the old Mykonos alive in your mind. Those were the days.
Me, I’m disgusted and disappointed. I do not know where all this is going, but it isn’t good."
Back to the video and booking accommodation (not from apps or Airbnb).... apart from July and August I would travel and stay in rooms, apartments which are sold by locals waiting at the ports with signs and photographs of their rooms.... Even the local onshore travel office....best way to meet with locals, stay with them, cook,eat and share the culture.. Never book any Excursions on the apps!!!.... Book them there after discussing and being satisfied what one is paying and receiving..... Writes he who knows a few things about excursions!?.... Remember that up 40% is added on the price of an excursion and accommodation to keep that OTA in business... The local travel agent is back.... talk to them.... they are really knowledgeable..... they are interconnected with other islands and will make life easier..... about the suncream....a must to buy before hand in large quantities (factors 40+) and travel with including good quality after sun...... As I write the temperatures are soaring towards upper 30°C+... small first aid kit with essentials....beach shoes very important (cheap and cheerful).... learning at least 1or 2 Greek dish from the locals...a lifetime memory!... Never drink Raki like shots!!! ????...I should know when I stayed in Crete one winter picking olives and grapes....we were pissed as parrots drinking Raki all winter long!!??.... Kalley Mera.... about the Gyros....eeeegros...In Mykonos they are selling them for €6.50 ??...a few years ago before we left we used to pay €2.50.Geeeeyro apo olla! enjoy your travels.... hope this is useful....ask me questions which I can answer!>>>>a few years ago before we left we used to pay €2.50 for Gyro....now just for fun there is a place which sells cocktails for €500........and a large glass of beer for €55....
I've definitely made the mistake of drinking too much Raki!! I do miss the good old days when I was younger and could drink five shots in a row without feeling a damn thing.
 
  • Like
Reactions: Hash
I've definitely made the mistake of drinking too much Raki!! I do miss the good old days when I was younger and could drink five shots in a row without feeling a damn thing.
Aha only 5 shots eh!???....Try this...all day drinking as misbehaving at the Taverna on the beach.... then the crazy owner says....we must down a few shots of Jack Daniels and Amaretto together!!..... then comes the interesting bit....off we go flying on the Kawasaki 750cc.......less than 4 minutes to Hora on those dangerous roads.... Arriving in style, alive & spinning the bike inside the bigger bars!! ???....Were we crazy???
 
  • Like
Reactions: blopez34
Aha only 5 shots eh!???....Try this...all day drinking as misbehaving at the Taverna on the beach.... then the crazy owner says....we must down a few shots of Jack Daniels and Amaretto together!!..... then comes the interesting bit....off we go flying on the Kawasaki 750cc.......less than 4 minutes to Hora on those dangerous roads.... Arriving in style, alive & spinning the bike inside the bigger bars!! ???....Were we crazy???
You have lived a crazy life my friend! Makes me want to move to Mykonos and work there for good!
 
This is a great video with some excellent tips. I've made the mistake of drinking Raki like shots! Never again ... LOL
 
Basically, the advice in video is very good, but I can add a few more from myself, since I have vacationed in Greece not once. As soon as you arrive in Athens, the first thing to do is take a tour of the city. It can be the Acropolis, the Parthenon, universities, temples, etc. You can even spend a few days doing this if possible. And only after that concentrate on rest, walking, shopping, sunbathing on the beach, etc., leave it not for the first day. Also, from the tips on how to travel smart, communication with local people will be important. Although it was said in the video, it is really important, because it is the local people who know the best corners of the city, plus you will find a company with which you can have a great time.
 
Last edited:
Tips for tourists by tourists always make me laugh, but they provide insight that locals might not notice because they (the locals) are used to certain things. Their tips are fine, and the two neighborhoods they recommended in their description are nice (koukaki and psyrri)... Psyrri used to be a nice place where only locals went, but now it's filled with tourists and I don't know if I'd want to stay there because of how loud it can be. Koukaki is nice and there are some good restaurants there.
 
  • Like
Reactions: mj_toronto8
Tips for tourists by tourists always make me laugh, but they provide insight that locals might not notice because they (the locals) are used to certain things. Their tips are fine, and the two neighborhoods they recommended in their description are nice (koukaki and psyrri)... Psyrri used to be a nice place where only locals went, but now it's filled with tourists and I don't know if I'd want to stay there because of how loud it can be. Koukaki is nice and there are some good restaurants there.
I think the best thing you can do when visiting Greece is to make some local friends if youre staying for long enough. They will show you the best of both worlds and recommended authentic spots.
 
thanks
 
  • Like
Reactions: francescool

Best Greek Destinations for History Lovers

I’m thinking about planning a Greece trip next year that is focused almost entirely on history, and I’d love some ideas for the best places to include.

Athens would obviously be part of the itinerary for the Acropolis, Ancient Agora, museums, and other archaeological sites. I’m also considering Delphi, Mycenae, Epidaurus, Olympia, and maybe spending more time exploring the Peloponnese. Meteora is on my list too, although that would add a different type of historical experience.

I’m especially interested in places where you can really spend time exploring rather than just stopping briefly to see one major site.

If you were planning a history-focused trip to Greece, which destinations would you consider essential? Are there lesser-known archaeological sites, historic towns, museums, Byzantine sites, or ancient ruins that deserve more attention? I’d also love suggestions for putting together an itinerary without trying to cover too much ground.

First Time Tips to Greece

I've been fortunate enough to visit Greece quite a few times over the years, and recently a friend asked me for advice before their very first trip. It surprised me how difficult it was to answer!

Once you've traveled somewhere often, you start taking a lot of things for granted. I'm not sure what the most helpful tips would be for someone experiencing Greece for the first time.

If you were helping a first-time visitor, what advice would you give? I'm thinking about practical things, cultural etiquette, transportation, money, restaurants, pacing an itinerary, or even little things you wish someone had told you before your first visit.

What are the biggest mistakes first-time visitors make, and what are some experiences you think every newcomer should have? I'd love to pass along some advice from people with firsthand experience.

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.

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?

Is Island Hopping Worth the Effort?

I've been thinking about trying an island-hopping trip the next time I visit Greece, but I'm wondering if it's actually worth the extra planning and travel time. In the past I've usually picked one island and stayed there for the duration of my vacation, which has been relaxing and let me really get to know the area.

Part of me loves the idea of experiencing several islands in one trip since they each seem to have their own personality, food, scenery, and traditions. On the other hand, I wonder if constantly packing, catching ferries, and checking into new accommodations takes away from the experience.

For those of you who have island-hopped, did you feel it was worth it? How many islands did you visit, and did you wish you had spent more time in fewer places? I'd love to hear your itineraries, tips, and whether you'd do it the same way again.
Sign up for a free account and share your thoughts, photos, questions about Greek food, travel and culture!

WorldwideGreeks.com is a free online forum community where people can discuss Greek food, travel, traditions, history and mythology.
Join Worldwide Greeks here!

JOIN COMMUNITY FOR FREE

LOGIN TO YOUR ACCOUNT
Back
Top