My Big Fat Greek Holiday

I certainly plunged into the deep end on my first trip to Greece. Athens in the middle of August isn’t for everyone and I must admit climbing up to the Acropolis in the near 40-degree heat was hard going. And you would think that being shaken awake in the early hours by an earthquake would have put me off forever! However, this trip was the beginning of my love affair with Greece.

Since this first trip to Greece I have been back more times than I can remember. Each time I set foot on Greek soil I feel I have come home. Here are just a handful of the reasons I always return to Greece…

Greek food

My goodness it’s phenomenal! Greek salads which are fresh, simple and covered in deliciously salty feta cheese and olives. Rich, creamy Moussaka, different in every eatery as each family seems to have their own unique recipe. And of course, the humble Greek kebab or Gyros. Usually made with pork or chicken stuffed into a light fluffy pitta stuffed with salad, tzatziki and chips!

The Scenery

Each area I have visited in Greece has its own stunning scenery. Top of the list must be Santorini. On one side of the island the towns cling to cliff edges above an underwater caldera, the whitewashed buildings being some of the most widely photographed areas of Greece. The other side of the island you will find stunning black volcanic sand beaches. Every area of Greece I have visited has shown me different types of beauty. Zakynthos experiences large amounts of rainfall in the winter so is one of the few areas in Greece that I have visited to have lush green areas in the centre and of course the legendary shipwreck beach.

Greek Frappe

Ok so you may think it is extreme to write a whole section on what is effectively an iced coffee but for me, that first Frappe I have when I come to Greece (ideally with the sound of Zorba the Greek playing from a nearby restaurant!) is the moment I feel at my most peaceful! In typical Greek style this drink was discovered accidentally by a Nescafe rep and is now sold in almost every food and drink outlet across Greece.

Versatility

There really is something for everyone in Greece. If you want culture, history and sightseeing Greece has it covered. If you want high end luxury hotels, for adults or families there are plenty to choose from. If you are looking for a great priced break with the family, then there are a huge range of excellent value apartments. Or even if you want a place with to go with your friends for some great nightlife there an abundance of lively resorts to choose from.

So, although there are many places in the world I still want to visit, I know that I will continue to return to Greece whenever the opportunity arises.