Greek Archaeology with Archaeologist Ilona Bartsch

Nestled in the rugged mountains of northwestern Greece, the Zagori villages are a hidden gem offering a peaceful escape into nature's embrace. This episode takes you through the timeless charm of the Zagorochoria, known for their traditional stone architecture, cobblestone streets, and stunning landscapes. Explore the dense forests, crystal-clear rivers, and the dramatic Vikos Gorge, one of the deepest in the world. Discover the unique blend of natural wonders and cultural richness that makes Zagori a must-visit destination. Learn about the best times to visit, how to get around, and the top villages to explore, including Papingo, Monodendri, and Vitsa. Whether you're hiking through the Vikos Gorge, rafting on the Voidomatis River, or indulging in local delicacies at a traditional taverna, Zagori offers a myriad of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Join us as we uncover the secrets of this UNESCO-recognized region, where history, nature, and hospitality come together to create an unforgettable journey.

This is Part Two of my chat with Michelle Janicek, as we talk about her family's second trip to Greece, in June 2024. After meeting with me for another 1:1 Trip Consultation Michelle landed on an itinerary that included the Mama Mia islands of Skopelos & Skiathos, a road trip to Meteora and Delphi, several nights on the magical island of Hydra and a final night on the Athenian Riviera. A fantastic second trip, or any time really!    

Michelle Janicek and I chat about her first trip to Greece with her husband and two teenagers, in 2022. They went to Santorini, Milos, Paros and Athens. Michelle initially booked a private trip consultation with me to try and work out the best itinerary, places to stay and things to see and do, and they had such a fantastic time that she booked another consultation with me when they returned home to book trip #2, which they have just completed ( part coming next week).   Some of the activities Michelle talks about offer discounts to listeners using the following promo codes:   Athens Food on Food - 'greecetravelplanning' Cattaxi Tours and Transfers in Athens - 'GTS' 3 island Saronic Cruise - 'GTS'  

Learn about one of the most incredible, less known, regions of Greece - Epirus, as I chat with Ioannis Smiris of Epirus Traveller. Located on the western mainland, above the Peloponnese, this region is packed full of some of the most amazing sites in Europe: Ioannina, the capital located on beautiful Lake Pamvotida Vikos Gorge - the deepest in the world! the 46 traditional villages of Zagori the Mythical Dragon Lakes of Drakolimnes the Acheron River - the Gates of Hades that lead to the underworlds and guarded by the Ferryman and Cerberus the 3-headed dog the Epirus Riviera with over 40 beaches, several stunning islands and the Greek 'Caribbean' area of Syvota  the Monasteries of Tsouka & Kipina - hundreds of years older than Meteora Nikopolis - the Roman Capital in Ancient times and a world UNESCO Heritage Site The Ambracian Gulf and Amvrakikos Wetlands - homes to thousands of rare migratory birds  and much more! Find Ioannis at Epirus Traveller 

Listen in as I chat with Naxian-American Sophia Werning about the wonderful island of Naxos. This perennial favourite offers something for absolutely everyone, and we talk about the many highlights, including the great beaches, the charming mountain villages, the excellent Chora, and lots more. You can find much more information on the Naxos page on the website too.

Welcome back to my chat with Archaeologist Ilona Bartsch as we complete our three part series about her amazing trip to Greece. This time Ilona ventures to the islands. First up is Mykonos, mostly to visit the sacred island of Delos, before moving on to Santorini, Crete, Rhodes and Naxos. We discuss the many, many incredible wonders on these islands including a number of places steeped in Mythology, the construction of ancient cities and what life was like for these ancient civilizations as well as some modern history too. You can find destination guides for all of these places on the website as well specific guides to Delos, Akrotiri, Lindos  and more.  

In this episode Ilona and I talk about the wonders of Thessaloniki and surrounds and her road trip back to Athens via Delphi, Arachova and Meteora, with a few stops along the way. These are some of the most significant historical sites in Greece and are also in arguably some of the most beautiful surroundings in the world. You can find out more about these and other astonishing Mainland sites, including how to get there are and where to stay,on the Mainland Page on the website.  

Part one of a three part series with Archaeologist Ilona Bartsch.  We talk about her amazing trip to Greece and her journey around the country visiting many of the best archeology sites including Delphi, Mycenae, Vergina, Knossos Palace, Delos and more. Join us as we talk about the history behind these incredible places as well the Mythology and also the logistics about how to get to them and lots more...      

In this episode I chat with Anna Tzogia from Athens Food on Foot about her fantastic food tours and cooking classes too. We talk about how Anna acquired her love of food as well as the different types of tours she offers, including those that are great for families and children and some of the newer, niche tours that cover other topics as well.   Read more at: Things to do in Athens  

Join me as I chat with Yannis Papadakis, a young man who lives and works on the incredible 'island fortress' of Momenvasia, on the Peloponnese peninsula on the Greek Mainland. This is an incredibly unique and fascinating destination that is steeped in history and has a burgeoning food and wine industry.  Step inside the castle and discover a magical medieval village, once home to over 20,000 people and now a charming place to spend a few days, or more. Read all about Monemvasia including how to get there, where to stay and more here: https://www.greecetravelsecrets.com/monemvasia-castle/