Be a Greek

SUMMARY:
One word: απίστευτος... or in english, INCREDIBLE! But even that one word doesn't do justice to the kind of trip we had in Greece and the amazing team at Be a Greek. We arrived in Athens for a couple of days to see the local sights, ferried to Mykonos for 3 more days and enjoyed some local farm-to-table and beach time, and then ferried to Santorini for 4 days for an opulent and relaxing close, before flying back to Athens for our flight home the next day.

PRE-TRIP PLANNING:
I don't know where to start with this review, so it's probably best where our trip started, when I first reached out to kimkim. The service looked straight forward enough to request an itinerary for our Greece trip, and immediately put me in touch with Effie from Be a Greek - local Greece travel experts. She titled our trip “Dream Vacation in Greece” and catered to every request - what our dates were, the type of vacation, budget, what's most important for the trip, where do you want to spend more/less money, more/less time, etc. Within only a day or two, Effie turned around a full 10-day itinerary that we iterated on a couple of minor tweaks, but within only a few days, our entire trip was finalized! And then we waited to see how it turned out...SO MUCH BETTER THAN EXPECTED!

ARRIVAL IN ATHENS:
From the moment we landed in Athens till the day we left home, we were met with white-glove service from start to finish. Effie had someone waiting at the airport holding a sign with my name to pick us up and take us to our hotel (Altar Suites Athens). The check-in process was seamless as they were waiting for us as well - our room was amazing with an incredible view of the Acropolis and the Parthenon . We had time that evening to roam around Monastiraki and enjoy dinner also with a view of the Acropolis and the Parthenon. The next morning Effie had arranged a Private Walking Tour of Athens including the Acropolis - once again, a driver was waiting for us outside our hotel to take us to the meeting point for our tour guide. Our tour guide was Natasha and my goodness Natasha was so well informed and shared really interesting stories about the rich history of Athens and also about the cultural ongoings of recent history. We had great conversations throughout the day. Natasha also took us out for a break and stopped by a local restaurant and offered us refreshments :). Thank you Natasha for an incredible tour - you made our day in Athens so memorable!

OFF TO MYKONOS:
The next day Effie once again arranged for a driver to take us to the seaport for our super ferry to Mykonos. Before I go on, I'll mention it now, but every form of transport, hotel, tour, was all arranged by Effie and her team from the moment we landed. I'll share a little more about the communication later :). The ferry was a little more than 3 hrs, and due to the slightly inclement weather (higher winds than usual), the ride made us a little nauseous, but we managed. As we arrived at port, once again rinse and repeat - driver, hotel (The George Hotel), simple check-in! Effie arranged a Farm and Wine Tour the next day at a local Mykonos farm where we got to experience a true “farm-to-table” meal with wine and met their farm animals! BTW, we didn’t have to figure out transport to/from, since that was also arranged :). Now here is a quick communication example of where Effie and the team at Be a Greek stood out - we decided on-the-fly to go out to a different hotel bar for some cocktails - we simply messaged Effie and team and they quickly responded on options on where to go and arranged with the driver for the change in plans, and not only that, but to be available when we are ready to go back to our hotel later that evening. The seamlessness and ease of making a quick change in plans in a foreign country where you don’t speak the language - it really felt as if we’re at home and messaging our friends with a new plan to meet up! After all that we spent the night back at The George in preparation for our ferry to Santorini the next day.

OFF TO SANTORINI:
Driver, ferry, arrival to port, driver, arrival to hotel – I can’t express how much this made our trip that much easier not having to navigate the local taxis or other transport options. As we arrived at our hotel in Santorini (Andronis Concept Wellness Resort) - I’m going to put this out there right now - the best hotel experience I’ve ever had! I am a Lifetime Platinum member at a leading hotel chain and have been traveling for my career for almost 20 years, and the Andronis Concept is by far the best! We had mentioned to Effie that we wanted to spend the most time in Santorini and also be able to enjoy the hotel as a relaxing end to our vacation - and Effie went beyond expectations - this hotel had a massive infinity pool, a heated pool under a cave, and our room had its own private heated infinity pool for ourselves with a postcard view of the caldera! I could not have imagined a better stay and relaxing end to our trip. This by far was the best part of our trip - each morning waking up to a billion dollar view and each night watching the glorious Santorini sunset from the privacy of our balcony and pool. We did go out and enjoy two excursions - one being the hike from Fira to Oia which we did one morning - (quick fact - there are a couple other Andronis properties in Oia, so we were able to take advantage of our included breakfast in those sister properties when we reached Oia which was nice). The other excursion arranged by Effie was the Sunset Dinner Cruise - this was a nice, easy and enjoyable (also a must-do) experience when visiting Santorini! Incredible view and the Aegean Sea is just so clear and magnificent! Our saddest day was when we were leaving Santorini - not only because the hotel was amazing, but we knew it was time to head back home as well.

LAST NIGHT IN ATHENS:
We received a pleasant surprise as we arrived back in Athens - Effie, our Be a Greek contact and master trip coordinator met us at the Arrival terminal in Athens herself! She had booked us a night at the Sofitel immediately across from the airport and walked us over to the hotel to settle us to check-in. We had a great final dinner at Jenny’s Rooftop at the Sofitel before another nice breakfast and walked over back to the terminal for our flight home.

COMMUNICATION:
Effie and her team created a WhatsApp Chat Group for our trip beginning the morning of our trip. We had constant communication with Effie and the entire Be a Greek team that became our 24x7 support throughout the trip. They used it to message us each evening of the plans for the following day, any e-tickets/boarding passes for transportation (ferries/flights), and timings for when our drivers would be at a pickup spot. From start to finish, the Be a Greek team was along with us and at no point did we feel lost, or unaware of plans, or even quick modifications to plans. It was also very helpful when our ferry to Mykonos was delayed - without asking, we got a message in the chat letting us know about the delay even before passengers were made aware at the port! Whether it was for any on the fly recommendations, or suggestions on things to do on our “free” days, Effie and the team at Be a Greek were always available and truly exemplified the meaning of white glove service.

IN CLOSING:
The experience we had on this trip from the initial planning on KimKim to getting in touch with Effie from Be a Greek to the actual execution of the trip, we could not have asked for a more memorable vacation. We’ve looked back in fondness on our trip each day since returning on how amazing each day turned out and how we wouldn’t change anything! We personally want to thank Effie and the entire Be a Greek team for all that they did and truly making our vacation a Dream Vacation! If you can’t tell by now, for those looking for a hassle-free, worry-free, all-inclusive planned vacation where all you need to do is enjoy, I could not ask for a better team than Kimkim and Be a Greek! We will absolutely use them for our next vacation! Effie - You were amazing and thanks again for going completely out of your way, and over and beyond our expectations to meet us before we left Athens. THANK YOU!!

Our experience with booking our honeymoon through kimkim was incredible! Such great communication with our guide and various others who were in on our itinerary throughout the trip. We felt so taken care of and loved not having to worry about planning the transportation in country, and taking local recommendations for where to eat, what to do, etc. Effie, our tour guide for the Acropolis was so knowledgeable and personable- she gave us ideas for things to do in and around Athens during the heatwave! For the island-hopping portion of our trip, we had an unbelievable week at sea with Kostas & Aggeliki celebrating our honeymoon! We loved the islands that we ended up visiting, as the itinerary changed based on weather. Lots of chances for swimming & snorkeling & relaxing, with a new island to explore each night. The food was great (mostly vegetarian ) and sleep conditions were comfortable (moreso when we used AC!) 10/10 would recommend this trip to any adventurous couple!

Hotel Reviews

Elia Ermou Athens Hotel

Athina

Wish it had a pool! Very comfortable rooms, with an amazing rooftop restaurant & bar with views of the Acropolis. Fabulous location for checking out hip restaurants & bars.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Walking distance to all the hip bars & restaurants

Staff

So personable and helpful! Cheery disposition.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Everything!

Paros Bay Hotel

Paros, Cyclades

We were a bit disappointed that we had a room with two twin beds shoved together for our honeymoon... But other than that we loved this hotel. The continental breakfast was good with delicious Greek yogurt and honey. The pool and views were insanely beautiful, cool location on a cliff side, close to really great restaurant- Magaya Beach Bar. It was unfortunately not walking distance to town- waited forever in the HOT sun to take a bus to Parikia.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Liked that it was on a cliff side not as busy area, but a little far from Parikia - didn't like having to take the bus, and it was going to be €20 one way for a taxi..

Staff

So personable!

Cleanliness & Comfort

The bathroom wasn't as clean as it could have been. Bed situation wasn't great- wish we had a queen or king bed instead of two twins.

Activity Review

7-Day Small-Group Cruise at Cycladic Islands - Day 1 Paros

Greece

We had an unbelievable week at sea with Kostas & Aggeliki celebrating our honeymoon! We loved the islands that we ended up visiting, as the itinerary changed based on weather. Lots of chances for swimming & snorkeling & relaxing, with a new island to explore each night. The food was great (mostly vegetarian ) and sleep conditions were comfortable (moreso when we used AC!) 10/10 would recommend this trip to any adventurous couple!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Our family had a fantastic time in Greece! We highly recommend visiting this beautiful country and using KimKim to help plan, organize, and guide you through the experience! Here are some of the aspects that stood out to us from the planning perspective:
1. In the beginning, we worked with Evelyn, who helped us identify what type of trip we were searching for. She did a wonderful job listening, asking questions, and creating and modifying our itinerary.
2. Once everything was confirmed, we worked with the amazing team at Be a Greek (Atonis, Dimitrios, Maria, Artemisk, and Alexandra)! We cannot speak highly enough about this group! Each day, we received detailed information about where, who, and what was on the schedule. Their response time to any question or comment was exceptional! Not sure we've ever experienced customer service at this level ever before! Thank you, Be a Greek, for making us feel welcomed, organized, and relaxed for a perfect family vacation!

Experiences that we recommend:
1. While in Athens: private tour of the Acropolis. Had a fantastic guide who was very knowledgeable (maybe a little too detailed for our teenage kids :-))
2. Bike tour in Athens - recommend Dimitris - wrote Google review for this company and him
3. Highlight of the Trip: NAXOS!!! We will go back at some point.
5. Loved Mythology tour with Labrina and Naxos Trekking with Yiota
6. Private motorboat tour was fabulous!
7. On our own we found a place called Pantry on Naxos - Highly recommend adding this location for a cooking class.
8. Santorini - Favorite experiences: Catamaran tour and Wine Tasting and Cooking Class

Hotel Review

El Mar Naxos

Naxos

The rooms were very large with many amenities and we found the beds and coaches very comfortable. The staff were super friendly and attentive. They offered many great food suggestions as well as local experiences. They easily accommodated our family when we requested an earlier breakfast option. Also, it was my birthday while I was there and they went out of their way to make it special for me. Our family loved the location! However, it is about a 1/2 mile walk from the downtown area and it is in a more rural setting. We loved walking and enjoyed being out of the busyness of the little town. It's also very close a super market and laundry facility (pay to get your laundry done). We loved this!! Finally, there are some unique elements of the property. There are strict rules around the use of the pool and fitness room. Guests must rinse off any sunscreen before entering the pool and must book the fitness room 12 hours in advance with a trainer. This was not a common experience for us. However, we didn't spend much time on the property during the day and there is an outdoor shower for rinsing off right near the pool. The gym was a little different and if you're someone who needs a workout room for running or weight training, this may not be the ideal place.

Authenticity & Character

Location

We loved the location because it was outside of the downtown area of Naxos. Guests have to walk about 1/5 mile to the area. We love to walk, so not a problem. But some may find this too remote. We also loved that it was close to a super market and laundry facility.

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Santorinian Cooking Class & Tasting Small Group Experience

Santorini

This was one of our favorite experiences. The guide was lovely and the cooking class was exceptional! We learned how to prepare 4 different dishes and received recipes to take home with us. The food was delicious!

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

The Acropolis & Acropolis Museum Private Guided Tour

Athens

When in Athens, you have to visit the Acropolis. Our family enjoyed having a private tour guide and would recommend this experience. The guide was very knowledgeable. However, the tour was a little too long for our teenagers, especially in the museum area.

Quality of Experience

Little too long in the museum.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Athens City Bike Small Group Tour

Athens

We loved our bike tour with Dimitris!! It was a great way to experience Athens and very safe. Our guide Dimitris was extremely knowledgable and charismatic. Highly recommend this tour and definitely request Dimistris.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Private Naxos Mythology Tour

Naxos

Labrina was one of our favorite tour guides! First, we loved the island of Naxos, so that made it a great start. It was enjoyable driving through the hills to see mythological sites. Loved ending at the olive oil tasting!

Quality of Experience

Olive oil tasting and the guide

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Naxos Rural Life Private Guided Hike

Naxos

Our family had a wonderful tour with Yiota! She was incredibly knowledgable. It was an easy walk (about 2 miles) through 3 small connected villages in the hills of Naxos. We ended by enjoying a delicious lunch in one of the villages. Thanks so much Yiota and Naxos Trekking for creating a memorable experience for our family. Highly recommend Naxos Trekking and Yiota!

Quality of Experience

Walking through the villages and eating at the end. Food was delicious!

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Yiota was awesome!

Transport

Private Motor Boat Cruise of South Naxos & Koufonisia

Naxos

Great day on the water and visiting the beautiful island of Koufonisia!

Quality of Experience

Visiting Koufonisia and the landscape that surround us. It was gorgeous!

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Santorini Caldera Small-group Sunset Cruise with BBQ on board and Open Bar

Santorini

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

the entire team on the ground in Greece was incredible. We knew where we were going at all times, we knew who our drivers were and had a very positive experience all the way around. We even had a couple of minor medical issues come up and the team was incredibly helpful in getting those resolved with local providers as needed. I will definitely recommend KimKim and BeAGreek to others as a fantastic service.