The country of Greece conjures in one’s mind images of azure seas, ancient ruins, white churches with blue domes, mediterranean breezes, and islands.  It also brings to mind the beginning of democracy, Plato, Socrates and biblical characters.  Greece certainly has a past of gigantic proportions, but has also demonstrated a flair for the contemporary since it’s recent success with the 2004 Olympics.  This is a diverse country that has much to offer the tourist.  You want history?  Greece certainly can offer you that.  You want romance?  Greece has many beautiful islands that offer gorgeous beaches.  You want to party?  There are islands that are non-stop party places.  You want to snow ski? Northern Greece has some great skiing in the winter. Greece has something for everyone.

Flying into Greece is easy.  The relatively new airport is quite a distance from downtown Athens, however, so having transportation to your hotel already arranged is recommended.

To get to the many islands that are a part of Greece, use of the ferry system is standard practice even for the Greeks.  There are shops all over Athens where ferry tickets can be purchased.  The ferries themselves can be like cruise ships with cabins for overnight accomodations.  Many islands are far apart and having your own cabin is definitely a plus.  However, if money is tight there are those who hunker down on the decks with their sleeping bags.  You can also sleep in an airplane type seat inside.  A word of caution.  In the busy tourist time of July and August there are bad winds that can whip up at a moments notice that make ferry travel impossible.   When the Meltemi start to blow, be prepared to have your ferry departure cancelled. Another word about the ferry system.  It can change from day to day.  Trying to pin down a schedule, especially over the internet is not a good idea.  Contact a reliable travel agent in Greece that can get your schedule taken care of once you arrive.

The Greek people are proud.  They are also very helpful and like it when one tries to speak their language.  A simple "efharisto" (thank you) or "parakalo" (please) go a long way when dealing with Greeks. 

Greece is a mingling of old and new.  A fantastic country that's easy to navigate.  It has the sea, the mountains and everything inbetween.