ODYSSEY OF GREECE AND HER ISLANDS

SEPTEMBER 9-20, 2009

 Join us for a magical journey to Greece and her islands.  The Greek islands are some of the most enchanting and stunning beautiful islands in the world. 

From archeological wonders, to fabulous beaches;  From quaint shopping promenades, to Cliffside vistas and magical sunsets.

 

ENJOY:                                                                                                                       

* 3 days and 3 nights on the amazing island of Santorini, with its own location atop a cliff.  The island is said to have once been the site of the Lost City of Atlantis. The views from atop the cliff where the main town of Fira now rests are breathtaking and our hotel sits right in the heart of Fira.

* 3 days and 2 nights on the stunning island of Mykonos.  Known for its party atmosphere and its stunning beaches, Mykonos is the jetset island of Greece. It is also the point from which you will be able to take an optional day trip to the neighboring island of Delos, home to fascinating archeological ruins.

 

• ·        A 3 night cruise visiting the medieval town of Rhodes, where you will feel as though you have travelled to a lost century, with cobblestone streets, a walled fortress and the ancient palace of Lindos, creating old world charm; Patmos, the quaint gem where you can visit the cave dwelling where John the Baptist once wrote biblical verse and an impressive castle and gardens on the same island; Plus Kusadasi, the hopping Turkish port where shopping bazarres offer incredible deals on leather, jewelry and clothing and an optional excursion to the ancient civilization of Ephesus is a can’t miss tour. 

 

Of course, no visit to Greece would be complete without a visit to the famed Acropolis and Parthenon of Athens.

 

The weather in September is beautiful in Greece and her islands so enjoy all they have to offer.

 

 

Daily itinerary: (B,L,D indicates included meals each day)

 

 

Wed. Sept. 9th

Depart on Delta flight 132 from NY-JFK at 4pm with your allsinglestravel.,com trip escort

 

 

Thurs. Sept. 10th  (B)

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Arrive Athens nonstop from Atlanta at 10:35am.  Meet our local Greek guide and stop for brunch (included).

 

After brunch, we will begin our Athens city tour visiting the Parthenon

and its museum, atop the famed Acropolis. 

 

With the exception of the Great Pyramid in Egypt, the Parthenon of Athens has probably received more attention from archaeologists, historians, architects, painters and poets than any other structure on earth. Words and photographs however, can offer but slight tribute to this extraordinary creation. It is the supreme expression of the ancient Greek architectural genius. With its incomparable setting, the visual harmony deriving from its sacred geometry, and the enduring wisdom of its resident deity, the goddess Athena, the Parthenon exercises a profound and lasting effect upon the human soul.

 

Moonrise over the Parthenon, the Acropolis, Athens, Greece

With the exception of the Great Pyramid in Egypt, the Parthenon of Athens has probably received more attention then any other structure in history

 

 

 After our tour, we will we will make an early afternoon transit for check in to the 4 star Athens Gate hotel in Athens

 

The Athens Gate Hotel is located in the historic district of Athens, exactly opposite the Temple of Olympian Zeus. It is just 400 yards away from the Acropolis, 200 yards away from the new Acropolis Museum, and on the doorstep of the Plaka, the heart of the hopping restaurant and nightlife district of Athens

 

The Athens Gate Hotel overlooks the Temple of Zeus and Hadrian’s Gate, and boasts a façade decorated with a unique contemporary sculpture by Nikos Alexiou. Guests can enjoy some relaxation time in the lobby lounge, ask the multilingual concierge for sightseeing assistance, and take in panoramic city views from the hotel’s rooftop bar.

 

http://www.athensgate.gr/       

 

 

After breakfast we will be transferred to the cruise ship for sailing to the island of Mykonos.  Our sailing departs at 11am and arrives Mykonos at 6pm.  During our sailing all passengers will enjoy all of the amenities of the cruise ship including the pool, sun deck, restaurants and more.

Arriving on the island of Mykonos at 6pm, we will be transferred to our 5 star hotel, the San Marco Hotel.

 

The San Marco Hotel sits perched with a breathtaking view of the sea that can be witnessed from its gorgeous pool, its Poolside bar and from many of its rooms.

 It has an on site spa offering massage and other treatments.

>>The San Marco is a perfect example of Cycladic architecture and the recent full refurbishment establishes the hotel’s position as one of the best on Mykonos Island. The hotel is located on the unique pebble beach of Houlakia, surrounded by landscaped gardens. All rooms and suites are attractively furnished and each individual balcony or terrace overlooks the sea, mountains or gardens

>>>The hotel also is close to the main town on the island and offers a free shuttle service to and from the heart of town from 9am til 11pm.

 

 

 Click the following links to view more details and photos of our hotel

http://www.dilos.com/hotel/1306  

 http://travela.priceline.com/hotel/overview-Greece_Kyklades_Mikonos_San_Marco_Hotel-3411505.html  

 

The balance of the day is at leisure to enjoy the island.  Tonight, enjoy the hopping nightlife that makes the island, the jet set haven to many.

Tonight, a welcome dinner has been arranged on our behalf.                   (B.L.D.)

 

                             

 

 

Sat. Sept. 12th (B)

 Today is a full day at leisure to shop, enjoy the scintilating beaches such as the aptly named Paradise Beach, or even take an excursion to visit the neighboring island of Delos, which is just a 30 minute boat ride away.  Guided tours of Delos are offered, sharing the secrets of the ancient ruins that were left by a long gone civilization.  If you wish to explore further, a short hike up a small hillside offers scenic views of the harbor and the island for those interested in the modest walk up its path.

             Ruins on the island of Delos – a short excursion from Mykonos

 

Mykonos, the scenic island where windmills dot the landscape, Pelicans roam gracefully, more fabulous beaches abound and excursions to the neighboring island of Delos offer a glimpse into Greek history and culture.

 

On jet-set Mykonos beautiful beaches, chic boutiques and elegant nightclubs all vie for the tourist’s attention. Beneath its sophisticated surface, however, lies a quintessential Greek island. Hundreds of tiny chapels dot the island and sheep graze in the shadow of whitewashed windmills. Find a table on the waterfront and bask in the serenity of sunset over the picturesque harbor. Be sure to send your regards to Pete the Pelican. 

 

 Tonight, Stroll the quaint streets where great dining options abound and then enjoy another opportunity to savor the hopping nightlife of Mykonos. 

 

 

                 Waterfront dining on the island of Mykonos.

 

Sun. Sept. 13th (B)

 

Today is a 2nd free day to explore this jet set island.  If you wish, rent a jeep or a moped and explore at your own pace, or just relax on its legendary beaches.

 

Monday Sept. 14th

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After our included breakfast – enjoy the morning and early afternoon at leisure. Late afternoon transfer to the port to board our cruise ship for a glorious

3 night cruise of the Greek Islands.

 

We will sail on the Greek line Louis Cruises. www.louiscruises.com

 

 

Our ship, the Aquamarine, offers several on board amenities to make your cruise experience all that you would wish for.

 

 

 

With 7 passenger decks, the ship’s cabins offer

 

STATEROOM AMENITIES

All staterooms are equipped with shower, air condition with individual thermostat control, safety boxes, telephone with direct dial and radio and Electric current in cabins 110volts for your convenience       SHIP AMENITIES    2 dining rooms, entertainment lounge, Library, Bars and disco, Cafeteria, Casino, Beauty salon, Gym and sauna, Swimming pool, 4 Elevators, Fully air-conditioned, AC, Stabilizers, Telephone, Fax, Satellite Telephone & Doctor on board.

 

 

Dining Experience

From breakfast in the morning to the midnight snacks, our chefs and well trained dining staff will serve regional specialties prepared from scratch. Our wine stewards will assist you in selecting some of the finest wines from a diverse local and international list   ALL MEALS ARE INCLUDED DURING OUR 3 NIGHT CRUISE AND ENTERTAINEMENT IS FEATURED IN THE EVENINGS FOR YOUR PLEASURE.  OF COURSE, IF DANCING IS YOUR THING, JOIN YOUR NEW FOUND FRIENDS AND ENJOY THE ON BOARD SHIP’S NIGHTCLUB.

Outdoor relax When at sea, you can relax on one of our spacious sun decks, read your favorite book, play a game of cards in our library, take dancing lessons or embark on a treasure hunt in our well stocked duty free shops. Fitness Center Start your day with a work out at the fitness center.

Beauty Salon and spa Enjoy a complete make over in the beauty salon or our full service health spa.

 

 

 

On board hospitality
Your days and nights onboard can be as active or as quiet and laid-back as you please. The choice is yours.
Around the pool With a refreshing swim in the pool, you will prepare yourself for the most fascinating and enriching shore excursions you have ever experienced. Casinos Try your luck in the casino.
Children's Activites Onboard there are menus, activities and a variety of entertainment designed to suit every family member from kids to grandparents. Indeed, some of the best things do come in small packages. Children’s activities are organized on board to entertain our youngest guests. Shows, Lounge bars and discos While the night is still young, you can enjoy the company of newfound friends in our intimate lounges and bars, attend a variety show in the theatre, dance in our disco till early morning hours
Sports, Gym and Spa Start your day with a work out at the fitness center followed by a complete make over in the beauty salon or our full service health spa.

 

Tuesday Sept. 15th

This morning, our ship arrives on the island of Patmos.

 

Patmos, Greece

This island is known as the site of the apocalyptic revelations of St. John the Baptist, written here during his exile from the Roman Empire. The cave where he lived is near the site of the Monastery of the Apocalypse. The Monastery of St. John, built on one of the island’s highest points, houses priceless icons and manuscripts in its Treasury

Take an optional excursion from the cruise ship to the monastery of St. John which is built within the walls of a strong fortification.  As you walk uphill towards the entrance of the monastery marvel at this magnificent structure, which was built 900 years ago. View the courtyard, the monks’ dining room and the old bakery before you visit the main church noted for its outstanding frescoes and interior decoration. Next, visit the small museum where priceless ecclesiastical treasures, books, manuscripts, mosaics, icons, splendid medieval textiles, vestments and jewelry are house.

 

If you prefer, take an optional tour to see the windmills of Chora, once upon a time the landmark of all Aegean islands, from where you will enjoy a beautiful view and have the chance to take photos. Afterwards, continue around the island to see its landscape of outstanding natural beauty comprising of rocky hills, dozens of tongues of land reaching out into the sea, tranquil beaches and many picturesque inlets

 

Enjoy lunch back on the ship and time to relax.

 

This afternoon we arrive in Kusadasi Turkey

 

Kusadasi, Turkey

An optional tour to nearby Ephesus should not be missed, for here history truly comes to life. Walking towards the ancient harbor, down a marble road rutted by the wheels of countless chariots, you pass architectural masterpieces like the Library of Celsus before arriving at the Great Amphitheater where St. Paul preached.

        

 

KUSADASI - Ancient Ephesus

This optional tour starts with a drive through the colorful town of Kusadasi and along the coast to reach Ephesus, famous in antiquity for its Temple of Diana - one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World - and later the home of St. John. During the years of the Roman Empire, the Greek port of Ephesus became the greatest city in Asia Minor. Upon arrival at Ephesus follow your guide to enter the ancient site through the Magnesian Gate. Discover innumerable monuments including the Forum, the Odeon, the Library of Celsus, the Thermal Baths of Scolastika and the Great Theatre built in the Greek era and reconstructed in the Roman period, which is still noted for its remarkable acoustics. View the symbols all around and marvel at the fact that one is still able to read the inscriptions in the ancient Greek language. Walk back to your coach along the Arcadian Way, where once Mark Anthony and Cleopatra rode in procession. As you drive back to Kusadasi, on a hill above Selcuk, just outside Ephesus, view the Basilica of St. John, which was erected over his grave in the 6th century A.D. by Emperor Justinian. Before returning to the ship, enjoy free time in Kusadasi or get a cultural taste of Turkey by enjoying an exhibition of fabulous oriental and Turkish carpets and jewelry, which you can buy if you wish for a fraction of their retail pricing.

                                   

Wednesday Sept. 16th.

This morning, we arrive on the island of Rhodes – The medieval island surrounded by an ancient walled fortress optional shore excursions are offered by the cruise line such as a visit to the Palace of Lindos.

 

 Enjoy a full day 9am til 7pm on Rhodes.

 

  

 

An optional tour to Lindos features a scenic drive along the picturesque southeastern coastline, dotted with white-washed villages, to the Palace of Lindos, one of the most important of the three great cities of ancient times. See how this entire city is guarded by medieval walls which were constructed by the knights of St. John in the 13th century. Within them stands the ancient Palace of Lindos, on the brink of a precipice 400 feet above the sea. From the Palace, marvel at the breathtaking views covering the great expanse of the Aegean Sea and St. Paul’s bay, where the apostle cast anchor during his historic voyage to Ephesus.

 

If you are looking for great shopping opportunities, stroll through the cobblestone streets and enjoy great shopping.

 

For history buffs, visit one of the few surviving synagogues in Greece, along with its adjacent museum chronicling the tragedy of World War II Greek victims and heros.  A World War II monument also exists just a short walk from the synagogue.  If you are lucky, meet the affable museum caretaker, a survivor of a WWII concentration camp.

 

 

Thursday Sept. 17th

This morning we arrive on the island of Crete.  Its capital, Heraklion, is just three miles away from the fantastic ruins of the Palace of Knossos. Discovered in 1899 and partially reconstructed, the elaborate Palace is believed to be the mythical Labyrinth of King Minos and the seat of ancient Minoan culture

This afternoon, we will arrive on the most amazing and famous island in Greece – Santorini. 

Santorini is legendary for its cliff top location.  On Santorini, every view is dramatic and breathtaking .  Stroll its quaint, trendy shops, dine at restaurants that overlook the cliffs and the sea and watch the most amazing sunsets you will ever see.

 

                                      

 

   Views of the Volcanic Caldera on Santorini

                                                                              Scenic Santorini and its Cliffside architecture along the coast

 

FROM HERE WE WILL SPLIT INTO 2 GROUPS BASED ON EACH PASSENGERS PREFERENCE:

OPTION A – ENJOY THE AFTERNOON IN SANTORINI TO EXPLORE ITS MAGICAL BEACHES, TAKE AN OPTIONAL DONKEY RIDE AND BROWSE ITS TRENDY SHOPS.  THEN RETURN TO OUR CRUISE SHIP FOR A FINAL NIGHT SAILING BACK TO ATHENS, ARRIVING THE FOLLOWING MORNING FROM WHICH YOU WILL BE TRANSFERRED BACK TO THE AIRPORT FOR YOUR NONSTOP DELTA FLIGHT BACK TO NY-JFK.

 

OPTION B – EXTEND YOUR STAY WITH 3 GLORIOUS NIGHTS ON SANTORINI.  PASSENGERS CHOOSING THIS OPTION WILL BE TRANSFERRED ON ARRIVAL IN SANTORINI , FROM THE CRUISE SHIP TO OUR 5 STAR HOTEL, THE MAJESTIC HOTEL FOR OUR 3 NIGHT POST CRUISE WEEKEND ON STUNNING SANTORINI.

 

http://www.hotel-majestic.gr/En/index.asp

 

 

Luxury , impeccable style and comfort are everywhere.
Smooth beds, marble spacious bathrooms with Jacuzzi bathtubs, verandas offering astounding view, soundproof rooms and other numerous facilities guarantee a thrilling experience.

AMENITIES INCLUDES

 

Three ( 3 ) swimming pools with Jacuzzi and fresh water, one heated April and October
Main Lounge (The Grand Lounge)
Pool Bar
A la carte restaurant (Capparis)
Gourmet restaurant (Crocus)
Room service from 08:00 until 24:00
Fully equipped fitness centre featuring “Technogym” equipment
Sauna
Turkish bath
Beauty Hall with full body and face treatment

 

 

The remainder of the day is at leisure to enjoy strolling through the island’s capital town of Fira.. Tonight, join us as we gather for a social gathering at Franco's pub, where we will watch the amazing ritual on Santorini of sunset gazing over the sea.  Franco's offers a balcony overlooking the water with classical music and comfortable outdoor seating.

 

Friday Sept. 18th (B)

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After our included breakfast – The day is at leisure on Santorini.   Optional tours will be offered such as a scenic boat ride to the famed caldera (extinct volcano) where we will have free time to explore by foot, the massive black rock face surface, with its many craters and unique features. On our sail back, our boat will stop at the natural Hot Springs, offering a chance to swim in this unique geothermal wonder.

If you prefer to relax, enjoy the 2 famed beaches of Santorini.  The black sand beach offers classic sun worshipping on sand matching its name.  Enjoy several restaurants and bars that line the beach.  The Red sand beach offers a much different experience.  Set at the base of a series of cliffs, the beach is reached by a walking path (approx. 15-30 mins walk).  At the base is the most unique beach featuring sand that is a dark reddish burgundy in color.  Relax on the sand as you admire the cliffs around you.  

 

 

Tonight, enjoy another Santorini tradition with a visit the far side of the island for a chance to watch the sunset over the coast of Oia, or watch the sunset from the most famous pub on the island, Franco’s, where you can recline on lounges overlooking the cliffs, sip cocktails and watch the sun set over the sea.

 

Views of the town Oui on the edge of the island. An ideal spot for sunset watching

 

 

Sat. Sept. 19th (B)

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After our included breakfast, one more free day is at your leisure. Enjoy optional tours such as the popular donkey rides up or down the island, where a pathway winds from the top of the island down to its base.  The views our very scenic and the ride is loads of fun.  Passengers can take the ride one way and a scenic cable ride the other way if you wish.

 

 

      The path of the popular donkey ride - Santorini

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SUNDAY SEPT. 20TH

 

This morning we will be transferred to the airport for our domestic flight from Santorini to Athens, connecting to our nonstop Delta airlines flight from Athens, nonstop back to NY –JFK.

 

 

 

Trip Inclusions:

 

Round trip air between New York JFK and Athens Greece on Delta Airlines.  (discount air add ons from US cities into JFK available upon request)

 

 

-English speaking guide for Athens city sightseeing tour + entrances

Acropolis, as well as for all airport, hotel and ferry transfers

 

- allsinglestravel representative traveling with the group from 1st day to last day of trip

 

-Porterage at all hotels

 

-1 night accommodations in Athens at the 4 star Athens Gate hotel with buffet breakfast

 

-3 nights accommodations on the island of Mykonos at the 5 star San Marco hotel including buffet breakfast daily

 

-3 day cruise of the Greek islands of Patmos, Rhodes, Crete, Santorini and the port of Kusadasi Turkey including all meals - inside cabins provided

(supplement for outside cabin available for an additional $199 )

 

All airport, hotel and cruise ship transfers

 

 

AND

 

3 nights accommodations on the island of Santorini at the 5 star Majestic hotel including breakfast daily (for passengers choosing option B – 3 NIGHT POST CRUISE SANTORINI STAY)

 

One way flight from Santorini to Athens (for passengers choosing option B – 3 NIGHT POST CRUISE SANTORINI STAY)

 

 

 

Price per person including free roommate matching:

 

FOR PASSENGERS CHOOSING OPTION A:  $2249  + air taxes of $420 and cruise taxes of $92  All taxes are locked in and guaranteed not to change.

 

FOR PASSENGERS CHOOSING OPTION B:  $2999 + air taxes of $420 and cruise taxes of $92.  All taxes are locked in and guaranteed not to change.

 

 

Passengers wishing to provide their own air may deduct $800 from the $2999 package price and also will not be responsible for the $420 in air taxes listed above.

 

Optional Single supplement for those wishing the privacy of their own room, rather than our free roommate matching service -   (single supplement includes all hotel and cruise segments .)  A very limited number of single occupancy spaces are allowed on this trip so book early if you desire this option.

 

BASED ON OPTION A   (WITHOUT THE 3 NIGHT POST CRUISE STAY IN SANTORINI)  - $499 based on  inside cruise cabin; or $699 including outside cabin on cruise ship)

BASED ON OPTION B – (INCLUDING THE 3 NIGHT POST CRUISE STAY IN SANTORINI) - $769 based on inside cabins on the cruise segment of the trip; $969 based on outside cabins on the cruise segment of the trip.

 

A $250 deposit is due 7 days after reservation.  Deposits are refundable if cancelled by April 15th.

 

Balance payments are due June 1st.