This trip is created for travelers who are seeking an experience that is vital, physically and intellectually stimulating, and educational. The Greek islands provide a stunning backdrop for the extensive archeological sites in evidence on both the dynamically different islands of Crete and Santorini. The itinerary also includes some soft trekking each day, as well as visits to museums, seminars on history, mythology, poetry, art and architecture, and a little hedonism as well.

On Crete (June 7-12) we'll feast on the treasures of the Minoan palaces at Greece's second largest museum and conjure up images of ancient life at the ruins of the Minoan palace of Knossos. We'll also enjoy Crete's splendid natural wonders when we make an optional 11 mile hike through the magnificent Samaria gorge and frolic in Greece's clearest and warmest waters. We will visit a nearly perfect Venetian fortress of Rythymon, and amble through Crete's oldest and largest market in Chania.

During our stay on the dramatically beautiful island of Santorini (June 13-18 ) we'll explore the finds from the excavation sites of the Minoans at Akrotiri, trek amidst the classical ruins of Ancient Thira, soak in the healing lava of the volcano which destroyed the vibrant culture on neighboring Crete, and absorb the ancient and modern cultures which followed the terrible devastation. Visits to the small but excellent museums in the capitol city will complement our stay. We will begin our exploration of Hellenistic mythology, and discuss the civilization that inspired it, while sampling the crisp and vibrant local wines at sunset.

Two nights in Athens (June 19 & 20) at the conclusion of the trip, will provide time to see the treasures of the famed Archeological museum, the Benaki Museum, the Folk art museum, the famed flea market, and the Acropolis of Athena.

""We are still talking about our trip to Greece. It was wonderful!! Thanks so much for doing such a great job of being tour guides! "

—Connie and Jerry Pearson, San Jose CA Greek Islands 2004

Itinerary:

Sun. June 6: Transit. Depart aboard regularly scheduled airline for Athens.

Mon. June 7: Iraklion. Arrive Athens and after clearing customs, make a connecting flight for the island of Crete, where we are met by taxis and transferred to our hotel in Iraklion, the capitol.

Tues. June 8: Iraklion. Morning seminar on Crete's passionate history, the sophisticated Minoan society that created the Palace of Minos at Knossos, and highlights at the local museum, the second best in Greece. Time to survey the local market. After lunch, visit to visit the treasures lodged at the museum next door to our hotel. Late afternoon talk on Greek language and customs. Dinner on your own.

Wed. June 9: Chania Morning departure by public bus (avoiding the crowds) to the famed excavations of the Palace of Minos at Knossos. Return to Iraklion, check out of our hotel and after lunch, transfer to the town of Chania in Eastern Crete. Our hotel is located close to the harbor in the "Old Town," dating from the 13th century.
We stop on the way at the historic town of Rythmnon, and walk to the Venetian Fortress that crowns the city, and time permitting-- take in the small but well executed archeological museum. Arrive in Chania and check into our hotel, located in the "Old Quarter" near the harbor. Late afternoon seminar on the Language of the Goddess: symbolism in Minoan ceramic painting.

Thur. June 10: Chania Orientation meeting on the history of Chania, followed by guided walking tour through the historic back streets of the old town, the lively market, Minoan excavations, Venetian shipyards, and the recently renovated Synagogue. Afternoon free to relax and explore Chania, or visit the beach. Late afternoon our talks on Greek mythology begin, focusing on on the hero Theseus and his relationship to the Palace of Minos at Knossos. Evening optional traditional Meze-tasting (like Tapas) and local barrel wine tasting.

Fri. June 11: Chania Early morning departure past monasteries and old traditional villages, orange groves and pine forests, by bus to the shepherds' village of Omolos and our 11 mile down-hill hike through the magnificent Samaria Gorge. You'll see a variety of scenery and perhaps the area's famous mountain goats (krikri) before arriving at the fishing village of Aghia Roumeli and a welcome lunch. Back to Chania by motor coach, arriving early evening.

Sat. June 12: Chania Day free to relax and enjoy Chania. The beaches on the island are among the best in Greece, and people-watching in harbor cafes a must. Farewell to Chania party and dancing at our favorite local taverna.

Sun. June 13: Oia Transfer by Hydrofoil (Fast Boat) to the neighboring island of Santorini and  the village of Oia, designated a living museum by the Greek government, and located at the northern-most tip of the island. You'll be escorted to your unique studios, each with a panoramic view of the sea and volcanic islands for which Santorini is famed.

Mon. June 14: Oia. We'll meet on the deck for an orientation to the history of Santorini followed by a walking tour of Oia village to acquaint you with local conveniences and to point out some of our favorite restaurants. In the late afternoon we'll meet again for a seminar on Art and Religion in Akrotiri, and a happy hour wine tasting of Santorini's well-regarded white varietals, as well as some local cheeses.

Tues. June 15: Oia. Morning departure for an all-day island tour. First stop is the Minoan excavation site at Akrotiri, a village evacuated in the massive earthquake that destroyed half the island in 1420 BC, then onward to Thira town for lunch and a visit to the archeological and folk museums, and the Thira Conference Center to enjoy the recreations of the frescoes at Akrotiri. Happy hour gathering to enjoy the sunset.

Wed. June 16: Oia. Departure by bus for a trip up to the ruins of ancient Thira (2- 3 Century BC). Trek through the extensive ruins and an on-site seminar on ancient Greek theater at a theater excavation site. Lunch in Kamari seaside village, and an open return from Kamari beach. In the late afternoon we'll meet again for the first in a series of seminars on Greek mythology.

Thur. June 17: Oia. Morning hike down to Amoudi port for a very special private cruise to trek the volcanic islands and hot springs with an opportunity to sample the mud baths, famous for soothing the skin. This is a popular and unique excursion, not to be missed. Lunch on return in the colorful harbor. Afternoon seminars on mythology continue.

Fri. June 18: Oia Final day to enjoy Thira. Happy Hour reading of modern Greek poetry and further exploration of Greek mythology. Farewell to Santorini party at a favorite taverna.

Sat. June 19: Athens Depart Santorini for Athens, a short flight away. Transfer to hotel and check in. Late afternoon meet in the lobby for a talk on the Acropolis its excavation and restoration, the temple of Athena Nike, the Parthenon, the Caryatids, the archaic displays in the museum, the history of the ancient Agora and the sites you will visit there.

Sun. June 20: Athens Morning walk through the historic Plaka to the Acropolis of Athena, followed by a visit to the Parthenon and Acropolis of Athena. Our next stop is at the new and celebrated Acropolis musem, located blow the Acropolis. After lunch in the flea market area, we venture on to the Archeological museum, where you may wander and marvel at your leisure. Evening farewell dinner spent in the historic and lively Plaka area, beneath the moonlit Acropolis of Athena.

ITINERARY MAY BE ADJUSTED SLIGHTLY TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF SPECIAL EVENTS THAT MAY OCCUR. NO ONE IS OBLIGED TO ATTEND ANY TOURS, MEETINGS, OR SEMINARS, HOWEVER NO REFUNDS WILL BE MADE FOR ANY MISSED ACTIVITIES. IF YOU LEAVE THE TOUR AT ANY TIME, FOR ANY REASON, YOU ARE ON YOUR OWN.

Not Included:
Laundry, additional excursions, meals, tips.

Trip costs and fees:
The tour cost of $3600.00 is based on two persons sharing a twin-bedded room with shower, some breakfasts and other meals, excursions listed in the itinerary, seminars, services of local and US guides, and all inter-island flights and boat trips. Those doing their own air deduct $1200.00. Ground only does not incude final airport transfer.

Passport and Visa:
A passport, valid six months from date of entry to Greece. Visa is not required for citizens of the USA. No health requirements.

Roommates:
Single people may sign up for accommodations desired on a share basis and will be assigned a roommate as circumstances permit. If a roommate is unavailable, the participant will be notified of the adjusted price for a single supplement: $619.00

Deposit:
A $350.00 deposit, check made out to Danu Enterprises, is required to make a booking. Deposit is fully refundable, minus $75.00 cancellation fee until May 1, when a $100 penalty fee will become attached to all cancellations received in writing. Final payments are due April 25, 2010. Changes in exchange rate or rise of petrol taxes may affect the tour price. Trip is limited to 16 people.

Accommodations:
Generally rooms have two single beds with modern flush toilets, sinks, showers, and hot water. In Chania we stay at a favorite small hotel on a side street in the historic quarter, near the harbor and town center with full breakfasts and local staff. In Oia we stay in unique caves that have been remodeled into studios with kitchens. All studios have decks with spectacular views of the volcano. In Athens we stay in a modern air conditioned hotel, close to the Plaka and Acropolis. All accommodations are clean and comfortable.

Food:
In recent published reports, the Greek diet was judged to be the healthiest in Europe, with its emphasis on fresh fruits and vegetables, light oils, low-fat dairy products (yogurt and feta cheese), protein rich olives, and light use of meats.

Weather:
June is a beautiful month to visit Greece. Some wild flowers are still in bloom, and it's warm but not yet hot. The Aegean sea is just warm enough to swim and snorkel. We beat the hoards from Europe who regularly flood the Islands, and the natives have had plenty of rest and are happy to see us. Arts and crafts, constructed during the winter months have not yet been picked over, and prices are lower.

Tour Organizer/ Leader:
Judy Slattum is a professional tour organizer and Instructor who has been leading study tours to Greece since 1975. She presently teaches through the University of California. This will be her 26th tour to Greece.
Assisted by: Madé Surya The trip will also utilize local guides and guest lecturers, and informal visits with local citizens.

For further information and a detailed itinerary, contact Danu Enterprises: 1-888-476-0543 or danu@earthlink.net