Before you go to Greece, check out the following:

• Want to read something that will “take you there”? Whether you’re dreaming of a vacation in Greece or are anxiously awaiting your departure, these books should do the trick.
• Greece has to be at the top of the list of dreamy filming locations. Any of these movies will get you excited about sights to come.
• If you’re interested in what the food scene looks like, you’ll find the show My Greek Table to be a great resource.
• Most of us don’t study the Greek language in school so it might not be as familiar as Spanish or French. Don’t fret! Focus on just a few essential phrases before you get there – you won’t believe how useful they can be.
• If you need some entertainment while driving, walking or multitasking, check out one of these podcasts. They cover everything from Greek Mythology to wine, language and culture!
• Brush up on the local etiquette before you land.
• Gordon Ramsay and his best friends went on a trip covering the Greek Islands and Athens…hilarity and good food ensued. Enjoy!
• Know your history!

Did You Know?

• The pace is noticeably slower here. Stores may open 30 minutes after their posted time and will likely be closed on Sundays.
• Santorini, Mykonos, Naxos and a few other islands get most of the love but Greece is home to around 6,000 (with only about 200 being inhabited).
• With over 250-300 days of sunshine per year, Greece is one of the sunniest places on Earth.
• Meal times can vary. Lunch might be anywhere from noon to 5pm while dinner doesn’t typically start until 8pm or later. Eat when you’re hungry and just go with the flow! In addition, don’t expect the waiter to bring your check automatically at the end of the meal – you’re going to have to ask for it.
• Cats are everywhere (even on the islands)! They are woven into the fabric of life in Greece and it’s best to follow the same rules you would at home – if it looks friendly, you can pet it; skittish or shy…walk on by.
• If you’re traveling in the warm spring & summer months, temperatures can get very high during the day. Be sure to drink plenty of water and take breaks from the sun.
• Don’t forget scarfs, pashminas and/or sweaters to cover shoulders as a sign of respect at religious sites.