Greece A vacation 3 years in the making

A Dream Vacation Three Years in the Making: My Greece Journey

When I turned 40, I had a dream: a grand celebration in Greece. I had been talking about it for months, but life had other plans. In 2023, just as I was gearing up for that long-awaited trip, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. My 39th year was spent in a battle to make it to my 40th, and Greece had to wait.

But I fought hard, and after a long year of recovery, the moment finally arrived. We booked our flights, packed our bags, and made our way to Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini, three incredible destinations in the heart of Greece. This trip was more than a vacation—it was a celebration of life, of resilience, and of making memories that would last forever.

Here’s a look at my journey, and a few tips for anyone thinking about traveling to Greece.

Athens: A Blend of History and Modern Life

As soon as we landed in Athens, the energy of the city hit me. The moment we walked out of the airport and into the streets, I couldn’t help but think: “Are we in New York?” The hustle, the crowded streets, and the chaotic taxis felt oddly familiar.

Despite the heat, Athens felt safe and vibrant, blending the modern with the ancient. We stayed in a hotel that reminded me of Manhattan—busy streets, upscale shops, but just around the corner, we were immersed in that distinct Greek charm. I loved the contrast between familiar sights and new experiences. The food was phenomenal, with local flavors and homemade meals that made every meal feel like a treat.

One of the highlights was visiting the Acropolis. It’s a must-see, but be prepared for a lot of stairs. My advice: go early in the morning or closer to sunset to avoid the heat and crowds. Don’t skip trying “loukoumades” (Greek honey donuts), and make sure to visit the local pharmacies—the skincare products are far superior to what we find in the States. The greek salad was delicious and very simple to make. The feta cheese was not salty and creamy a taste I can not describe.

A word of warning: skip the night tour in Athens with dinner. They take you to a touristy spot where the food doesn’t live up to the city’s culinary reputation.

Mykonos: The Ultimate Nightlife Destination

Next stop: Mykonos. If you’re a fan of vibrant nightlife and stunning beaches, this is the place for you. It’s worlds apart from Athens—cleaner, fresher, and more laid-back during the day.

Mykonos is a seafood lover’s paradise. We ate nothing but fresh seafood, including mussels so buttery they melted in your mouth, and calamari that tasted nothing like the rubbery versions we get in the States. While it’s a little pricier than Athens, the quality made every bite worth it.

The island is not the most family-friendly place—especially if you’ve got little ones—but if you’re there to enjoy the nightlife and the island’s unique beauty, it’s a dream. We took a ferry to Delos, an ancient archaeological site that was both educational and breathtaking. Even in the intense heat, the sea breeze kept us comfortable as we explored.

The baklava I tasted abroad was unlike any I’ve had in the States—simpler, purer, and more focused on letting each ingredient shine. While I loved the almond and pistachio versions, the walnut-filled baklava was my absolute favorite. Though a hint of allspice made an unexpected appearance in one bite, I still found it delightful, adding an intriguing layer of flavor that only enhanced the experience.

Santorini: My Ultimate Favorite

Santorini was hands down my favorite of the three. The vibe here was different—more relaxed, serene, and perfectly balanced. Our stay at Secret View was unforgettable. Our room had its own private pool, which made leaving feel almost impossible! The staff was warm and welcoming (except for one small hiccup), and the food was beyond delicious.

One of the highlights of Santorini was the wine tasting. The wine was fantastic, but be prepared—it’s pricey! Still, it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience to sip wine that’s been crafted on an island with such rich history.

We also did a sunset cruise, and I can confidently say it was my favorite part of the trip. There’s nothing quite like watching the sun set over the caldera while enjoying fresh, home-cooked food. Make sure to catch the sunset in Santorini—whether you're on a cruise, on a balcony, or just walking through the town of Oia. It’s magical.

Tips for Traveling to Greece

Greece is stunning, but there are a few things I wish I’d known before I went. Here are some tips for a smoother, more enjoyable trip:

• Women begging for money: While this may not be everyone’s experience, I noticed that some women would approach men for money—and even touch them to distract them. Be aware, and don’t let yourself be caught off guard.

• Electric plug adapters: Hotels don’t typically have USB ports or American-style plugs, so make sure to pack an adapter to avoid any inconvenience.

• Do everything in the morning or evening: The heat can be intense, so plan your sightseeing for early morning or late evening to avoid the midday sun.

• Use Uber, not taxis: It’s often cheaper and more reliable than local taxis. Be cautious of taxi drivers who say their meter isn’t working or that they can’t take credit cards—this is a common scam.

• Lock your bags: Pickpocketing can happen, especially in crowded areas. I recommend using a luggage lock on your backpack or bag.

• Hydrate: You’ll be surprised at how quickly you can get dehydrated. Pack electrolytes and drink plenty of water.

• No tipping required: Unlike in the U.S., tipping isn’t expected in Greece, so don’t feel obligated.

Should You Do a Cruise or an Island-to-Island Tour?

One of the most common questions I got when I shared my trip was whether to go for a cruise or a multi-island tour. Honestly, it all depends on your budget and travel style.

If you opt for a cruise, you’ll have limited time on each island, but you won’t have to worry about lugging your bags around. On the other hand, if you’re up for a more in-depth experience with plenty of sightseeing, I highly recommend the island-to-island tour. We took our time exploring, and having the flexibility to enjoy both the day and night life of each island was a huge plus.

Final Thoughts

This trip to Greece was so much more than just a vacation—it was a celebration of everything I’ve been through and everything I’ve overcome. The beauty of the islands, the kindness of the people, and the unforgettable experiences made every moment worthwhile.

As for the next adventure? Who knows where the wind will take me, but I’m already dreaming of Tokyo, Paris, Bali… The world is our oyster, after all.

Book Your Trip with Tara SutherlandIf you’re looking to book your own custom trip, I highly recommend reaching out to Tara Sutherland with Tredway Travel Company. She was instrumental in creating the perfect itinerary for us, tailoring every detail to our needs. Here’s her contact info:

• Email: tara@treadwaytravelcompany.com

• Instagram: @adventuringwithtara