Greece
Overview
Resorts and Beaches
With 13,676 km of coastline, Greece has established itself as one of the most popular holiday destinations in Europe, attracting those who enjoy tailor-made holidays, as well as those who are taking advantage of the ever-growing number of bargain package deals that are becoming available to this diverse and exciting country.
With such a huge variety of destinations within this spectacular country it’s sometimes difficult to know where to start Crete, Rhodes and Corfu all have well established resorts that provide a huge range of accommodation from budget through to highly exclusive.
Bearing in mind the length of the coastline, those seeking sun, sea and sand will be spoilt for choice. There are long, white-sanded beaches met by clear, warm waters or small, secluded inlets bordered by cliffs and gently perfumed by nearby pine forests. Popular choices for family holidays include Paltis Yialos in Mykonos and Milies Beach in Kefalonia.
There are many cultural celebrations across Greece. Book Greece holidays just before Lent and you could experience the thrill of Apokries, or the Carnival. This lasts for two weeks and involves vibrant costumes, scattered confetti and twenty four hour revelry.
Easter is another very important celebration in Greece, rooted in religion and involves firework displays and traditional meals of roasted lamb and Ouzo.
Culture and History
Greece can also be defined by its architecture, which has influenced cultures all over the world. Athens plays host to the Pantheon of the Acropolis, built around 477 to 438 BC. The imposing columns and the immense statue of the goddess Athena are a glimpse into the country’s mythical and magical past. To balance the scales between paganism and religion, many crumbling churches offer a reminder of the strength of character of the people who call Greece their home.
Food
Food and wine are essential part of Greek life and cheap summer holidays here offer far more than the famous Greek Salad. Traditional cuisine utilises herbs and spices, fresh ingredients, Greek olive oil and a wonderful simplicity.
Seafood is very popular, as well as meats such as lamb and goat, infused with locally grown herbs, such as oregano, mint, rosemary and thyme. Pine scented wines are a delicious and invigorating accompaniment.
Greece holidays offer a chance to experience a world where myth and legend appear to be very much alive in the welcoming culture that will embrace you as soon as you arrive.