Opa moments
Standing on the marble entrance to the Athenian Acropolis, or “high city,” knowing that the structure has been looking out over a valley of sardined whitewashed buildings paving the way to the Aegean Sea since the 5th century BC, is a little humbling. The Doric columns of the Parthenon have withstood winds and cannon attacks from a multitude of storms and invaders and still reach for the sky. How can I complain about a little jet lag?
The journey through this coastal capital of 3.6 million people followed a recurring pattern. The scope of the historic destination and its resilient residents was humbling and inspiring at the same time. Our Hosts Global Forum group enjoyed the bounty of Mediterranean cuisine, danced in Monastiraki Square and dined by the light of 3,300 years of history in the Acropolis Museum. Following is a snapshot of the awe ConcepTours shared with our group.
Meet and Stay
If you want to be in the middle of the action, 5-star Hotel Grande Bretagne puts you there. It is across the street from Constitution Square, or Syntagma Square, where the Hellenic Parliament stands, and the Presidential Guard, known as Evzones, stage ritual changing ceremonies on the hour in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
In this city of scooter-riding, fast-walking and coffee-drinking citizens, following the winding, narrow branches off of pedestrian Ermou Street is an adventure in shopping, cafes and history. In the midst of the blocks of modern retail wonders, the Church of Panagia Kapnikarea, a Greek Orthodox stone structure dating back to the 11th century, still stands as a tribute to the silk cloth tapestry craftspeople in the area. The past and future rub shoulders at every turn.
Eat and Drink
The Mesogaia valley is an emerging wine region in Attica filled with koutoukia , small taverns or wine bars serving kilos of local resinated Savatiano in Grecian pewter jugs and sparkling Muscat of Alexandria in fine crystal flutes. Markou Wine Museum blends an appreciation of the evolution of viticulture through the ages with a dramatic architectural setting and a modern event space just right for a group of 200.
Athenians are adept at making visitors feel welcome. Some five million come from all over the world each year. Travelers don’t have to look too hard to find authentic fare. From smoky grilled corn and gyro with creamy tzatziki sauce to meaty moussaka, street vendors and cafes are abundant. Be warned: Prime dining time in Athens starts at 9 p.m., so a midday nap might be just the ticket to better enjoy the buzzy nightlife while sipping ouzo or dancing on the tables.
For a true culinary adventure, Michelin Green Star Delta is located inside Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre, along with the National Library of Greece and the Greek National Opera. From a perch at the hand-hammered copper bar overlooking the water, guests experience a 12-course tasting menu called Omnivore. Yamas to that!
Wherever and whenever you partake, don’t pass on the Greek version of baklava, filled with walnuts and honey between layers of buttery phyllo dough.
Experience
After the hustle and bustle of the city, a few days on dreamy Mykonos is a popular incentive perk. The Myconian Collection, 10 family-owned luxury properties, is run by the four Daktylides sons—Panos, Markos, Vangelis and Marios—and each property brings a unique personality to hosting groups. Whether you are there for the quaint windmills, colorful marina, watery sunsets or vibrant nightlife, this island in the Cyclades group is seismically stable and high on the memories to last a lifetime scale.
