Athens, Naxos, and Crete

Greece | Jun 10 - Jun 21, 2024

Wow, this trip was an absolute dream full of fun and adventure. I am so thankful for KimKim/Travel 12 for doing the hard work and allowing me to sit back and relax. Although some excursions were not as expected all were very enjoyable with knowledgeable guides and fantastic scenery. I started my trip in Athens and was thankful for Travel 12's placement of lodging right in the city center as I was a bit overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle of the city. I experienced a mythical and historical tour of the Acropolis and some other ancient remains and was able to sample the local fare. I have several food restrictions and Travel 12 was excellent at providing some recommendations throughout my trip. During my time in Athens I even met and had dinner and wine with my local specialist (shout out to wonderful IRENE LAPPA). After Athens I moved onto spectacular Naxos for some fun in the sand, waves, and mountain towns. It was amazing. Enough said. Crete was next on my list and I highly, highly, highly recommend visiting the Palace of Knossos, hiking the Samaria Gorge (if that is your jam) using the ELAFONISSOS TRAVEL company, kayaking from Stravos beach with CONTACT CRETE, and visiting Balos and Falassarna beaches using CHANIA AVENTURES. Travel 12 helped to establish my itinerary including lodging, transportation, and excursions based on my preferences. While in Greece they also provided me with a WhatsApp number to contact for assistance. This was very beneficial to me.

Thank you to Travel 12 and all of the guides I met while in Greece!

Activity Review

Samaria Gorge Guided Hiking (Group Tour)

Chania

This was such an amazing hike. The views alone made the next-day soreness well worth the effort. I am an experienced hiker so can certainly say that this trek is very doable, but you would be best served with the proper shoes and perhaps some experience and stamina due to the terrain and weather conditions (it gets hot out of the trees!). I took this trip with ELAFONISSOS TRAVEL and was so lucky I did as I experienced a sprain to my ankle two days prior and they were able to rent me a hiking stick for added stability over the loose and slippery rocks. The guide was knowledgeable about the conditions one would experience on the hike and there was no pressure to remain with the group, but pace the hike to your ability and comfort. Along the way there were rest stops and water to fill up if needed. At the end of the hike lay a beautiful beach for a dip to cool off and multiple restaurants to eat while waiting for the ferry to take you back.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport