Wrapping up 2023 Greece Travels

As 2023 is coming to a close, I am reflecting back on the year and my Greece travels.

In early Spring of 2023 I started, For the Love of Greece, to share my love with others by creating personalized itineraries and supporting others' travel adventures to Greece.

This past year, I got to take 2 separate trips to Greece, one for 5 weeks at the end of May through June, and the second in October for 2 weeks, where I celebrated my birthday.

A few highlights: meeting lots of interesting people and catching up with friends, visiting 3 new islands for the first time (Amorgos, Koufonisi, and Agistri,) attending a Konstantinos Argiros concert in Patras, visiting a Winery in Paros, shopping for ethical fashion at Heel Athens Lab, and discovering Shedia Home (a social impact project in Athens.)

One thing I love about travel is what we get to learn about the world and about ourselves. I learned that I love to travel alone but that I need to find people to socialize with. It would be fun to invite friends to travel with me for pieces of my trip. I got very clear that I need to have some structure while I travel, especially when I am working remotely. And I learned that it’s completely possible to work effectively and be in my most favorite place at the same time. Self-care and a routine are a MUST in order to feel my best.

Have you discovered something new about yourself while traveling? I am ready to support you in your Greek travels for 2024. Are you craving a new adventure, personal growth, stepping out of your comfort zone? Let’s chat! Shoot me an email jen@fortheloveofgreece.com 

Top 3 Villages to visit on Paros with limited time.

I personally love to travel “slow” and spend more time in one place than trying to island hop like a crazy bunny. But, if you have very limited time on Paros, and want to hit the highlights, this is what I would suggest. If you rent a car, you can stop along the way. Otherwise, the island has a public bus which will take you to each village.

1.Parikia - the capital of the island, and the main port village. Here, you will find many restaurants, shops, cafes, the historic Church of 100 doors (Panagia Ekatontapiliani), and the Frankish Castle, just to name a few. Explore the maze of Market Street, where you will find shops with Parian souvenirs, treasures, and freshly baked Spanikopita.

2. Naousa - the second largest village after Parikia and known for it’s posh nightlife and high-end boutiques. Its alluring Cycladic design will inspire many IG-worthy photos. You will find seaside restaurants, bars, clubs, and cafes ready to impress.

3. Lefkes - This cute traditional village is set up in the mountains in the middle of the island. Feel free to wander and get a little lost (not really possible) inside the village as you follow the path down to a large church. You can’t miss it. On your way to the church, you will pass through a small platea, which is a perfect place to stop for a quick coffee under the trees. Lefkes is also home to artist studios and lots of Greek charm.

3 Reasons to Visit the Island of Paros in October

1. The island will be quiet, and you will have more space to breathe in the island's true, authentic beauty and personality.

2. While the weather is often unpredictable, you will likely have some sunny, beautiful days where you can locate the best beach based on the direction of the wind and enjoy a nice swim without the crowds.

3. You will find better prices for accommodation and car rentals, and fewer people booking, so more availability. You will also find many of the stores will offer sales.

Extra tips!

Grab a sweater and a light jacket for your night stroll on the beach or the small streets of Parikia. I suggest packing layers and having options to be best prepared for the warm and the cooler days. Rain is also slightly possible, but sitting on the veranda and watching the rain come down into the Aegean Sea is beautiful.

In Summary, October in Greece is fabulous.

It would be my honor to assist in creating a magical trip to Greece, whatever time of year is right for you.

Reach out via DM or email at jen@fortheloveofgreece.com to hear about the ways I work with people. :)

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