In stark contrast to my disappointing experience in Portugal last spring, my September R&R to Greece was fantastic because of the people! The trip guides set an upbeat tone and wrangled 13 of us hikers from (and back to) Athens around four islands through four hotels via three ferries, a private boat, a flight, and countless busses on a tight schedule, all while remaining energetic, patient, and accommodating, and showing not a hint of exasperation or exhaustion!

I’d like to give a big shout out to my trip-mates, whose lively and delightful company made every day a party:

The group! front row L-R: Steve, Tami, George; second row: Noreen, D-, Sheri, Linda, Bill; third row seated: Arne, Jill, Kara, Toby; standing: guides Maria and Christos

Guides Christos and Maria give us the island overview for the day’s hiking

Guide Maria dressed for the city instead of the trail

Maria and hiker Kara take a pause on the trail

Kara being epic

Sheri on the trail

Bill takes a break on the trail into Oia, Santorini

Mom and son: Tami and Toby

Gotcha, Toby!

Tami checks out Kouros parts

Noreen and Steve

Steve kept the group in stitches most days!

Noreen strikes a pose

Jill and Noreen enjoy lunch al fresco

Jill at dinner

Sister and brother Jill and Arne at the summit

Arne on a through-town hike

Christos shopping in Santorini

George soaking up the Santorini sun

George on the town

Linda on the beach

Bill and me

Group dinner

The group on Santorini

After a rough summer at BAF I needed a really good R&R, and thanks to the beauty of Greece, the marvelous weather, and the company of these lovely people, I got one! I was thoroughly relaxed and re-energized upon my return. Whenever I need to de-stress, I look at my trip photos or even just reflect on one of our meals or hikes or other events and I get a great big smile on my face.

I miss you all! Take care, be safe, keep in touch, and I hope to see you again someday!

MM