Take a glimpse of the hot picks for Greece from 9 members of the Eclectic Greece team! Get their insight information of where to go in Greece after the Quarantine, hidden gems in Athens and their warm wish to all of you.
Anna Polychronaki
Travel Designer
Which destination in Greece would you suggest as ideal after quarantine?
Any of our beautiful off the beaten path islands would be ideal for the summer or even fall months. For one week vacation or more I would recommend Crete for its rich history, culture and customs combined with its beautiful beaches and picturesque villages. For shorter stays I would suggest either Paros or Naxos for a more authentic island life.
Tell us one thing you really love doing in Athens
I love taking long walks along the narrow stone streets of Plaka under the Acropolis with the beautifully renovated houses which preserve the traditional architecture. It’s like taking a walk through time, exploring and discovering both the past and the present at the same time.
A wish for travel advisors during quarantine?
It may sound as a cliché but I only wish that everyone and their families are safe and sound. We will all come out of this stronger and closer to people we care about. After being cooped up in our houses i'm sure that more people will want to travel in order to discover, explore and visit as many places as possible.
Anthi Papandreadi
Operations Manager
Which destination in Greece would you suggest as ideal after quarantine?
Well, I would like to do nonstop island hoping after quarantine! But if I had to choose only one island, this would definitely be Mykonos!
After spending so much time at home, the vibrant feeling of the island and the gorgeous beaches will provide the perfect gateway for me. From the tour of Delos, which is really a must, to the Bohemian beach cooking activity, this island offers its visitors anything they might ask for; it is the ideal islandfor all agents.
Right now I am picturing these amazing sunsets from Mykonos Chora, its crystal clear waters and I wish I could be there!
Tell us one thing you really love doing in Athens
Right in the foothills of the Acropolis there is an area called Anafiotika. This is the most picturesque area of Athens, with narrow paved streets and white washed houses.
It is a tranquil oasis in the bustling heart of downtown Athens, where no cars are allowed.
The energy in the area is so strong with the Acropolis right above; taking a walk through the streets of Anafiotika will really blow your mind
A wish for travel advisors during quarantine?
We are all in this together. All we have to do now is stay united, safe and strong.
We will all rise and shine again!
Eva Saringala
Sales Director
Which destination in Greece would you suggest as ideal after quarantine?
I would love to venture out again to the beautiful island of Ithaca. It is the second-smallest of the seven major main Ionian Islands, after Paxos, with a population of approximately 3000 residents. Worldwide famous as the homeland of Odysseus, Ithaca symbolizes the return to heaven, discovery and fullfillment.
You could combine Ithaca with a visit to the famous island of Cephalonia, located just 2km away. Ithaca is the ideal place for hiking as well as mountain biking in a scenery that glides from blue to green along the coast alongside the coast and through olive, pine, oak, arbutus and carob trees up on the hills. Scuba diving and sea kayaking are only some of the many activities offered in the variety of different beaches the island has to cover all tastes : from sand to pebbles, from rocky to green-clad backgrounds, from peaceful to busy ones.
Tell us one thing you really love doing in Athens
I have always been fascinated by the heights and locations that offer bird’s eye views. 360 cocktail bar is one of my favorite spots in the traditional neighborhood of Monastiraki , just a few steps away from Plaka. It is one of the top open rooftop bars in Athens, with a spectacular view over the city of Athens as well as the sacred hill of the Acropolis. It is open during the day offering brunch/coffee options, until late at night with the best mixologists in Athens demonstrating their skills by using local ingredients to deliver unique flavor experiences . 360 is the perfect stop after a day exploring the history of Athens, to watch the buzz of the city centre from above and also the ideal end to a traveler’s day to admire the stunning night views of the city that never sleeps.
A wish for travel advisors during quarantine?My message to the travel community and Eclectic Greece’s clientele is to put everyone’s life as a priority and stay at home, appreciate the time spent with your families, and why not some new skills! This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to do things we never had the time to do. Keep spreading the positive vibes and confidence that our industry will flourish again soon. I cannot wait to get on that plane to see you all very soon. Greece is waiting for you and your clients when you are ready to travel again.
Frantzeska Vitali
Travel Designer
Which destination in Greece would you suggest as ideal after quarantine?
All our islands are worth visiting and you can find a unique beauty in each one of them. If I were to choose the idea destination after quarantine ends, I would definitely go for Santorini. Why Santorini though?
Well, Santorini is the perfect place for you to stay outside enjoying the sun and the wonderful views all day long. From early in the morning to late in the evening the unique scenery of caldera will enchant you as there is no chance of getting bored there. There are not only many archaeological sites to visit, but also plenty of local shops which offer a variety of traditional products and delicacies! Don’t forget all the wine tours and tastings you can experience while being there. The beauty of Santorini makes you want to visit it again and again!
Tell us one thing you really love doing in Athens
An afternoon walk after a long day in Plaka area is all you need to get away from the hustle and bustle rhythms of the city and relax. Located in the shadow of Acropolis , Plaka gives you the sense that you are strolling around the narrow streets of a small Cyclades island or even of a village, while at the same time you are right in the heart of city centre. It’s one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Athens with traditional shops, cafes and restaurants . The smalls steps in Plaka are the ideal place for you to taste the traditional greek ''mezze'' and drink ouzo. As for movie lovers, make sure to visit Cine Paris, one of the oldest outdoor movie theaters in Greece. Actually, all movies are in English with greek subtitles. I ‘m in love with this neighborhood and I’m sure you will be too when you get there!
A wish for travel advisors during quarantine?This is an unprecedented situation for all of us. We need to stay united and positive, thinking that everything will soon be over and we will get back to our normal everyday lives. Quarantine has taught me not to take everything for granted and appreciate even a small walk around my neighborhood , In fact, there is nothing more precious than our health and this is the only thing we should worry about.
Stay home stay safe , we will get there!
Maria Petsa
Operations Manager
Which destination in Greece would you suggest as ideal after quarantine?
That’s the most difficult question to ask… Since the question is really demanding, i cannot but mention two of my favourite destinations. Santorini has a unique beauty. Why? Well, the caldera views are breathtaking and especially during sunset you will fall in love with them. A sailing tour in the heavely waters is absolutely necessary. But apart from the things that you may already know, we should by no means forget the picturesque and traditional villages that match perfectly with a wine tour and make an unforgetable day. In case you want to escape from the busy crowd, you can take a bike tour and go off the beaten track. Visit the villages, cycle around the beautiful vineyards, visit a private church built right onto the cliff side and of course end your experience with a sip of Assyrtiko wine. My second favorite spot in Greece is Naxos. Do you want to experience the authentic greek feeling? This is the ideal destination. Enjoy the view from the top of the main town which is called Kastro. Swim in the crystal clear waters. Explore the uniqueness of the traditional villages and taste the delicious food made of local ingredients. All these will definitely make you feel like a local.
Tell us one thing you really love doing in Athens
Walking around the city, sometimes feels like we are exploring something new even for ourselves who are residents of Athens. What I enjoy the most is having a drink at Anafiotika. This area is located in one of the oldest parts of Athens and still nowadays offers visitors a true local atmosphere. Have a cocktail at Couleur Locale and enjoy the amazing Acropolis Views. Walk at the flea market and merge with the locals. Do not forget to taste Souvlaki, a Greek coffee, Koulouri Thessalonikis (traditional type of bread) and Mpougatsa (type of dessert). PS: do not forget to ask for a hotel with a gym.. you will need it LOL
A wish for travel advisors during quarantine?Most of us right now are working on cancellations or postponements but also most of us are training in order to apply for to the next Master Chef competition. Maybe this is the reason why we are spending so much time in our kitchens! These are indeed challenging times but you have to remember that from every bad experience we get some knowledge and as a result we become wiser.
We will be stronger after this ends, so till then enjoy your family members and think about how you picture yourself in 5 years. Do you have an answer? If not maybe this is the right time to set new goals that will pave the way for the realisation of your dreams.
With my love and gratitude to all of you.
Marios Demenagas
Product Manager
Which destination in Greece would you suggest as ideal after quarantine?
The most ideal and relaxing destination to visit is Santorini. Soothing and uninterrupted views, great food, shopping, you name it, or anything else you might wish for are just few things that can make your vacation unique. Don’t miss it…
Tell us one thing you really love doing in Athens
From side to side, Athens has all the hidden gems someone should see at least once in his lifetime. Hospitality, Food, Night life, People and History. I really love visiting small and cozy bars with good friends in the historical center of Athens which serve amazing cocktails.
A wish for travel advisors during quarantine?
During these challenging times, I hope you and your beloved ones are staying safe. I wish you spend this time home in a productive and qualitative way, staying active with some exercise and in touch with friends, family and clients. All these will sooner or later be over, so we need to be ready to restart our lives and start travelling again.
Nota Damala
Marketing Manager
Which destination in Greece would you suggest as ideal after quarantine?
My ideal destination for family travel in Greece after the Quarantine would definitely be the island of Crete! With its natural beauty, its shallow sea and sandy coves, its culture and history, the island of Crete offers visitors numerous choices for unforgettable family holidays. Starting your trip from the Old city of Chania and ending up in Heraklion I would suggest experiencing the charm of the Cretan villages, hiking through the Samaria Gorge and a farm-to-table eating experience in Rethymno. To make your trip even more exceptional, you should visit an authentic shepherd’s house and learn the art of Cretan cheese-making, stop off at an eco-olive press and visit the palace of the Legendary King Minos, Knossos and the mythical Minotaur. To stimulate your kids’ imagination and help them visualize how the Palace of Knossos used to look like thousands of years ago, choose a tour that includes 3D virtual reality devices.
Tell us one thing you really love doing in Athens
I really love to take long walks early on a Sunday morning around Acropolis and various surrounding areas taking different routes every time. There should never be a plan for this walk as the charm of this experience is to get lost in the city and discover at least one favorite spot by instinct! Latest favorite spot: the old fashioned café in the National Garden.
A wish for travel advisors during quarantine?
Be safe, optimistic and seize every moment during the Quarantine. The travel industry will bloom again and we will be very busy working in this amazing industry. In the meantime, try different daily routines, work, read, exercise, cook, dream and find the perfect balance during this pause.
Spyridoula Charatzi
Senior Travel Designer
Which destination in Greece would you suggest as ideal after quarantine?
Definitely the islands of Cyclades and especially our lovely off the beaten track islands such as Naxos or Folegandros will be first on the list! Despite the Coronavirus crisis, the islands' beauty is totally untouched!
Tell us one thing you really love doing in Athens
What I really enjoy in Athens is walking around its neighbourhoods and in particular right under the Acropolis Hill which is the landmark of the glorious ancient times!
A wish for travel advisors during quarantine?Just stay safe and optimistic! Grab the chance to do things that you didn't use to have time for! Brush up your knowledge by reading books! Studying history will enlighten all your questions!
My music suggestion:
Manos Hadjidakis - When The Clouds Come (Konstantinos Kostaras Rework)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P-Zde6Yub0s
Lia Felouka
Travel Designer
Which destination in Greece would you suggest as ideal after quarantine?
Santorini (officially in Greek 'Thira') – When traveling is possible again, this island is the perfect place to unwind and have a dreamy vacation. In a stunning setting in the Aegean sea, this small volcanic island is by far one of the most beautiful, charming and fascinating islands in the world, famous for its history, sunsets, dramatic views, food, wine, beaches, and its amazing white villages clinging to the rim of the caldera. Full of incredible things to do, Santorini will definitely move you. You will create memorable experiences , with only some of them being watching the famous sunset in the village of Oia, hiking the path from Oia to Thira right on the cliff-top and walking along the sparkling, azure Aegean sea stretching for miles in front of your eyes, sailing in the caldera bay, visiting the archeological site of Akrotiri, visiting a winery and tasting the unique Santorinian wine assorted with local delicacies, discover the off the beaten path villages of Pyrgos and Emporio, visit Ammoudi bay; the little fishing village on the foothills below Oia, to name but a few. For ultimately fresh seafood lunch in one of the charming tavernas. In fact, there are plenty of activities you can enjoy if you are visiting with your friends, family or your significant other.
Tell us one thing you really love doing in Athens
Having grown up in Athens, within a 5 minutes' subway ride from the city center, I find the historical city center to be the best place to walk around when in need of that tremendous energy which comes from the Acropolis hill of Athens -the Sacred Rock, as we, Athenians, affectionately call it-. Athens is home to many spectacular gems, such as the Acropolis the Parthenon, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Roman Agora in Plaka, everything within walking distance. However, there is another hidden little gem. Perched on the hill right above Plaka and under the shadow of the Acropolis, lies unnoticeable the little neighbourhood of Anafiotika. Built in the 19th century by workers from Anafi, it still conveys the feeling of the untouched island of Cyclades. Narrow streets, small whitewashed houses colorful flowers hanging from the balconies,peace and tranquility contrast the buzzling city that is at 2 min. distance. As many locals do, I usually enjoy strolling around the hidden streets of Anafiotika on a sunny Sunday morning, enjoying the neighbourhood energy to the fullest. An ideal way to recharge batteries for the week ahead is meeting some friends for brunch in one of the many great cafes around Plaka. After all, Sundays are for rituals not for new beginnings!
A wish for travel advisors during quarantine?
I cannot but wish for the Quarantine to be over soon, I can only wish and for mental and physical health to you and your loved ones until then.
I really hope that we all take advantage of isolation time and do things we never had the time to do before, such as including communicating with our beloved ones (even through a screen), exercising, educating our selves, enjoying good music, books and movies. Create your own quality time and keep away from the fridge!! That is a wish to myself too, that would be nice to keep for the post quarantine era as well.
