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Greece Turkey Mediterranean Cruise 5 days

13/07/2012 Easytraveller 4 Comments Mediterranean Cruises

Celestyal Discovery

Enjoy the luxury on board our cruise ships and get to know the Greek Islands and the Greek hospitality. The breeze of the clear blue waters of the Aegean Sea will make you wanting to come back and spend more time in the islands.

MONDAY: ATHENS/MYKONOS: Embarkation starts at 09:00. Our cruise ship will leave the port of Piraeus at 11:00 for a 3 full days of fun and experiences. We go along the Athens Riviera in the Saronic Golf to the south end of Attica passing close to the Temple of Poseidon in Cape Sounion. This afternoon is a good opportunity to get around and know your ship and the services we provide. In the afternoon arrival at the famous island of Mykonos, an international “jet-set” known for its beautiful sandy beaches, hundreds of tiny white chapels and incredible night life. Walk around the town and admire the small houses, all white and blue, have a coffee or a cocktail in one of the famous bars and promise to return for longer stay and more experiences.

TUESDAY: KUSADASI/PATMOS: First port of call today is the Turkish port of Kusadasi with the option to visit Ephesus, one of the most complete ancient cities ever excavated. Then on to the island of Patmos, where participating in the optional tour, you will have the opportunity to visit the Monastery & the Grotto of St. John, where he lived and recorded the Book of Revelation.

WEDNESDAY: RHODES: Today we visit the magnificent island of the roses, Knights and Butterflies. Participating in one of the optional tours, you can visit the old medieval city and the famous Acropolis of Lindos. If you want to be on your own you can swim in one of the many beaches of the island or just stroll in the old city and imagine being one of its inhabitants of the ancient times, Late evening return in the ship.. Participating in one of the optional tours, you can visit the famous Acropolis of Lindos.

THURSDAY: HERAKLION/SANTORINI: New port, new places, new interesting sites in Crete. We will wake up in Heraklion, the biggest city of Crete, the island full of archaeological sites, beautiful beaches and fantastic scenery. Take the opportunity to participate in the optional tour to the Palace of Knossos, the centre of the Minoan Civilization.
We continue and this afternoon we visit the most breathtaking island, Santorini, believed to be the lost continent of Atlantis. You can participate in the optional tours or just relax in one of the famous cafes of the town and admire the sunset on the Caldera, known to be the most famous

FRIDAY: PIRAEUS: Early we arrive in Piraeus port. After breakfast disembarkation and continue for your Greece vacation or for your return home trip.

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Classical Greece Tour Vacation Package 8 days

19/06/2012 Easytraveller 8 Comments Vacation Packages

Ancient Classical Greece Tour Vacation Package and a taste of Greek Islands!
Enjoy the beauties of Aegina, Poros and Hydra in our Mini Cruise. Admire the harmony of Ancient Greece Monuments in our 4 days Classical Greece Bus Tour visiting Corinth, Mycenae, Epidaurus, Nauplion, Olympia, Delphi and Meteora.

DAY 1: ATHENS: Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Balance of day at leisure.

DAY 2: ATHENS: Morning sightseeing tour of Athens including all famous monuments: House of Parliament, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Adrian’s Arch, Temple of the Olympian Zeus, the Royal Palace, the Academy, the University and the National Library. Tour will end by visiting the Acropolis and the new Acropolis Museum, “State of the art” in museum construction and very rich in content. On Mondays the new Acropolis Museum is closed.
Afternoon free to visit Plaka (The old Athens city) with lots of souvenir shops, restaurants and taverns.

DAY 3: ATHENS-AEGINA-POROS-HYDRA: This small cruise will take you to Hydra, Poros and Aegina and bring

you back in the evening full of fun and with the taste of the Greek islands.
Morning transfer to the pier of Piraeus, to embark your cruise ship for your full day cruise to the islands of Aegina, Poros and Hydra. Good opportunity to know a little bit of Greek Islands and visit a small part of Ancient Greece in the optional tour to the temple of Aphea Athina in Aegina.
On the return trip you enjoy a program with Greek music and songs and join the dancers on Greek folklore dancing. Included is the transfers to and from the port, port taxes and lunch on board.

DAY 4: ATHENS-OLYMPIA: Leave by the Coastal Road to the Corinth Canal (short stop). Drive on and visit Epidaurus which was a small city in ancient Greece, at the Saronic Gulf. Reputed to be the birthplace of Apollo’s son Asclepius, the healer, Epidaurus was known for its sanctuary, the cult of Asclepius at Epidaurus is attested in the 6th century BC.as well as its theater, which is once again in use today.
The Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidaurus is a UNESCO world heritage site.
The theatre is marvelled for its exceptional acoustics, which permit almost perfect intelligibility of non amplified spoken word from the proscenium or scene to all 15,000 spectators, regardless of their seating.
Then proceed to the Town of Nauplion ( short stop) drive on to Mycenae. and visit the Archaeological Site and the Tomb of Agamemnon. Departure for Olympia Through Central Peloponnese and the Towns of Tripolis and Megalopolis. Dinner and overnight in Olympia, the Cradle of the Olympic Games.

DAY 5: OLYMPIA-DELPHI: Olympia was a sanctuary of ancient Greece, known for having been the site of the

Olympic Games in classical times, the most famous games in history.
The sanctuary, known as the Altis, consists of an unordered arrangement of various buildings. Enclosed within the temenos are the Temple of Hera (or Heraion/Heraeum) and Temple of Zeus, the Pelopion and the area of the altar, where the sacrifices were made. The hippodrome and later stadium were also to the east.
To the north of the sanctuary can be found the Prytaneion and the Philippeion, as well as the array of treasuries representing the various city states.
Olympia is also known for the gigantic ivory and gold statue of Zeus that used to stand there, sculpted by Pheidias, which was named one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World by Antipater of Sidon.
Then drive on through the plains of Eliad and Achaia until the magnificent bridge which is crossing the Corinthian Bay from Rion to Antirion. Pass by the picturesque Towns of Nafpactos (Lepanto) and Itea, arrive in Delphi . Dinner and overnight.

DAY 6: DELPHI-METEORA:
Delphi was the centre of Ancient World – the “Omphalos” (Navel of Earth) – whose prestige extended far beyond the boundaries of the Hellenic World.
On the slopes of Mount Parnassus, in a landscape of unparalleled beauty and majesty, lie the ruins of the Sanctuary of Apollo Pythios.
Visit the Treasury of the Athenians, the Temple of Apollo and the Museum containing such masterpieces of Ancient Greek sculpture as the bronze Charioteer and the famous athlete Aghias.. Depart for Kalambaka, a small Town situated at the foot of the astonishing complex of Meteora, gigantic rocks. Dinner and overnight.

DAY 7: METEORA-ATHENS: Meteora is one of the largest and most important complexes of Eastern Orthodox

Thermopylae_Greece_Spartans_monument_of_Leonidas

monasteries in Greece, second only to Mount Athos. Among striking scenery, perched on top of huge rocks which seem to be suspended in mid-air, stand ageless Monasteries, where you can see exquisite specimens of Byzantine art. The six monasteries are built on natural sandstone rock pillars, at the north western edge of the Plain of Thessaly near the Pineios river and Pindus Mountains, in central Greece. The Meteora is included on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Return to Athens via Trikala, Lamia, Thermopylae (visit the Leonida’s monument). Arrive in Athens early in the evening.

DAY 8: ATHENS-AIRPORT: According to your departure flight, you will be transfrred to the airport

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Greek Islands Mykonos Paros Santorini Package

09/05/2012 Easytraveller No Comments Vacation Packages

Mykonos Paros Santorini the most famous Greek Islands. The cosmopolitan Mykonos, the picturesque Paros and the world known Santorini at your fingertips with this 12 days vacation or honeymoon package
Enjoy the nightlife in Mykonos and the sandy beaches, the clean beaches and blue Aegean Sea waters of Paros and the best sunset in Santorini and the Greek food in all islands.
Go very close to the Volcanic Islands opposite the Santorini and enjoy your swim during our Volcano Cruise.

DAY 1: ATHENS Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Balance of day at leisure.

DAY 2:ATHENS Morning sightseeing tour of Athens including all famous monuments: House of Parliament, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Adrian’s Arch, Temple of the Olympian Zeus, the Royal Palace, the Academy, the University and the National Library. Tour will end by visiting the Acropolis and the new Acropolis Museum, “State of the art” in museum construction and very rich in content. On Mondays the new Acropolis Museum is closed
Afternoon free to visit Plaka (The old Athens city) with lots of souvenir shops, restaurants and taverns. .

DAY 3: ATHENS-MYKONOS Early morning transfer to the pier to board the ferry to Mykonos. Upon your arrival on the island, transfer to your selected hotel.

DAY 4: MYKONOS Days at leisure in Mykonos to enjoy the sun, sea & the beauties of this unique island.

DAY 5: MYKONOS-PAROS Morning transfer to the pier to embark the ferry to Paros. Upon arrival, transfer to your selected hotel.

DAYS 6 & 7: PAROS Days at leisure in Paros, the island with the exquisite sandy beaches in crystal waters, the traditional villages with whitewashed cubic houses in narrow paved alleys contrasted with the many bougainvilleas and lovely chapels. Paros was known in antiquity for its fine marble. The main town is Parikia and one of the most cosmopolitan areas of the island is Naoussa.

DAY 8: PAROS-SANTORINI In the morning, transfer to the pier to board the ferry to Santorini. Arriving on the island you will be transferred to your selected hotel.

DAYS 9 & 10: SANTORINI Days at leisure at the most breathtaking island. Admire the town of Fira’s white-washed houses, narrow streets and open air cafes that cling to a steep cliff accessible by cable car or mule.
Enjoy a half day cruise (included in the package) to the small islands of Nea Kameni & Palea Kameni located inside the caldera and the Hot Springs with the green and yellow waters.

DAY 11: SANTORINI-ATHENS At the indicated time you will be transferred to the port to embark the ferry boat to Athens. Upon your arrival, transfer to your selected hotel.

DAY 12: ATHENS-AIRPORT According to your departure flight, you will be transferred to the airport.

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Istanbul City Break Package 5 days

20/04/2012 Easytraveller No Comments Vacation Packages

See the fascinating Istanbul in details, admire the glory of the past, see the modern life of Turkey and bargain in the Bazaars of the city

DAY 1: ISTANBUL: Upon your arrival you will be ransferred to your hotel. Balance of day at leisure.

DAY 2: ISTANBUL: After breakfast full day visit to Istanbul. Visits to the outstanding monuments of Ottoman & Byzantine Empires, the Roman Hippodrome, Hagia Sophia (closed on Mondays), Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Soliman the Magnificent Mosque and Grand Bazaar with over 4000 stores. Lunch at local restaurant & back to the hotel at dusk.

DAY 3: ISTANBUL – BOSPORUS: Short cruise along the Bosphorus, the strait that separates Europe from Asia. Enjoy the view of the wooden villas, marble palaces and ancient fortresses. Landing on the European side & back to hotel.

DAY 4: ISTANBUL – TWO CONTINENTS: Afternoon departure for the intercontinental bridge of Bosporus,

to continue to the Camlica hill at the Asiatic part of Turkey and view the magnificent Istanbul panoramically. Then visit the Beylerbeyi Palace and a typical fish village along the coast of Bosporus with time at leisure for shopping.

DAY 5: ISTANBUL-AIRPORT: According to your departure flight, you will be transferred to the airport.

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Religious Tourism grows up in Turkey

07/04/2012 Easytraveller 2 Comments Travel News

Cultural, historical and religious wealth spots in Turkey offer all the major beliefs of the world as Islam and Christianity a great opportunity for visiting the country.
Religious tourism or pilgrim tourism in Turkey is growing in popularity. These tours are perfect for people who want to trace back the history of their religion, visit Biblical places and hear the legends related to the apostles. Many luxurious or even cheap holidays in Turkey include the following hot spots of religious tourism.

Hagia Sophia Church, Istanbul
Located in Istanbul, it is a legacy made for both Christian and Muslim culture. It was originally a church converted into a mosque by Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror. Here, you will see one of the most beautiful architectural designs. The magnificent dome will take your breath away as it is almost 56 meters high and 31 meters in diameter. It was included in UNESCO’s List of World Heritage.
Ephesus, Izmir
Located near the Aegean Sea, it is one of the greatest cities of the Greeks in Asia Minor. It is a sacred site for Christians due to its strong association with biblical figures such as Apostle Paul, John the Baptist and Mary. It is also a tourist attraction for travellers on Mediterranean cruises. It used to be home of the Temple of Artemis which is included in the Seven Wonders of the World.
Chora Church, Kariye Müzesi
Just like Hagia Sophia, Chora Church was also a church that was converted into a mosque. It is one of the most beautiful examples of a Byzantine church. Inside the building is a beautiful interior covered with fine mosaics and frescoes. These paintings are of religious figures such as Mary, Joseph and Moses.
Church of St. Peter, Antakya
Antakya or Antioch is the place where Peter lived. This small cave church is regarded as the world’s first church where saints named the new religion Christianity. It is believed to be carved by Peter himself. The church also includes pieces of floor mosaics and frescoes.
Pool of Sacred Fish, Urfa
Known as the place where King Nimrod attempted to murder Abraham by throwing him into a furnace. It was believed that with God’s will, fire turned into water and wood turned to carps. Here, you can enjoy the scenic beauty and appreciate the infrastructures that surround it.
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20-25% increase of inbound tourism to Greece from Israel for 2012

18/02/2012 Easytraveller No Comments Travel News

Greek National Tourism Organization participated in the 18th International Tourism I.M.T.M held on 14 and 15 February in Tel Aviv Israel. I.M.T.M. is the largest annual exhibition in the Eastern Mediterranean and takes place under the auspices of the Israeli Ministry of Tourism.
The large participation of both professionals and the public and the very positive reception of the Greek participation highlighted the dynamics of the Israeli market for Greek tourism, which reflected estimated growth in incoming tourism in the region of 20-25% for 2012.
The General Secretary of the G.N.T.O Mr. Koletsos gave a series of interviews to 8 journalists of Channel 2 in Israel’s state television, to the HAARETZ newspaper and to Channel 1 of the Israeli radio in Jerusalem, achieving maximum visibility and publicity of the competitive advantages offered by Greece as a tourist destination.
The full support of the mission of G.N.T.O offered ambassador to Israel, Mr. KyriakosLoukakis.
The Greek pavilion also visited the international basketball player Theo Papaloukas who supported our participation and lured crowds to visit.
It is widely believed that there is the need for planning and implementing actions for the transformation of the Israeli market in emerging market tank for Greek tourism

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That’s Greece vs That’s Not Greece

16/02/2012 Easytraveller 2 Comments Travel News

Just a small video for all our friends

16.5 million tourists in Greece for the year 2011

28/12/2011 Easytraveller 1 Comment Travel News

Just before the end of 2011, arrivals of tourists are expected to reach 16.5 million and tourism revenues go up more than 10% over last year, equivalent to a 1% increase in GDP.

For the next years the role of tourism is expected to be a catalyst for leaving the country from crisis. According to a recent study by the McKinsey Company on behalf of the Hellenic Federation of Enterprises and the Union of Greek Banks, 220,000 new jobs can be created by the increase in incoming tourists in the most dynamic sector of the Greek economy.

By 2021 the contribution of tourism to the GDP of Greece is estimated to exceed 1 / 5 which means that the direct gross value added of tourism (direct and indirect contribution) can increase by 18 billion and reach 50 billion euro. Again, according to the study data, these numbers represent 44% of the number of new jobs over the next decade, but 36% of the estimated total development of the country.

In 2010, directly and indirectly employment in the tourism industry in Greece was 746,000, according to the WTCC (World Travel & Tourism Council) which is equivalent to 17.9% of total employment in the domestic economy, while during the last decade tourism contribute consistently above 16% of the GDP and covers 1 / 3 of the trade deficit.

The Association of Greek Tourist Enterprises stresses that Greece can serve 20 million arrivals by 2014, ie 20% more than the year’s record high of 16.5 million arrivals, with what this means for increasing employment.

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Heraklion Crete to welcome more cruise ships

02/11/2011 Easytraveller 2 Comments Travel News

Heraklion Crete Island Greece Heraklion port authorities welcomed the arrival of new cruise ships and is encouraging more cruise companies to include Heraklion in Crete island in their itineraries.
Very close to many archaeological sites gives you the opportunity to be an eye witness of places where the western civilization started a few thousand years ago.
The Heraklion is a modern vibrant city with nice architecture and a very interesting museum with excellent ceramic paintings.
Enjoy the Greek and Mediterranean food in the restaurants and taverns of Heraklion and taste the local wine and “raki” the local spirit.
This very informative video is made by the port authorities of Heraklion.

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29th Athens Classic Marathon

27/10/2011 Easytraveller No Comments Travel News

The interest shown by runners all around the world for the Athens Classic Marathon 2011 has reached its peak. This year’s Athens Classic Marathon event will be equivalent to last year’s success, not only regarding number of participation but also regarding the quality reached. According to the registrations progress so far, SEGAS and the Athens Classic Marathon Organizing Committee cannot but express their satisfaction from the fact that Greek and foreign runners are participating in the Race.
In a very difficult period for Greece, SEGAS, a sports federation, decidedt to show to the world that Greece may be going through difficult times but does not lose the values that diachronically carry through its history and its culture!
After concerted efforts of the President of SEGAS, UNESCO, the largest international supporter of the United Nations, is now a supporter of the Athens Classic Marathon.
In the agreement signed in Paris by UNESCO and its 193 member countries, UNESCO decided to support the efforts of our country, recognizing the Athens Classic Marathon not only as a premier sporting event but as a worldwide historical and cultural event, a bridge that connects the past with the present.
The participation of 20,000 runners from 96 different countries, the interest of top celebrities and international media puts Greece on the spot of the world, giving to our country, global visibility and revenues exceeding 20,000,000 Euros based on last year’s data.
This year’s Athens Classic Marathon becomes an international event. Following last year’s anniversary of the 2,500 years from the Battle of Marathon, SEGAS decided to utilize and extend this legacy, linking this year’s event with values like social cohesion, the power of human will and solidarity. These values that emerge through the Athens Classic Marathon are denatured into an act through SEGAS’ extensive social responsibility program that has been developed by the Federation over the last four(4)years.
Posted by the Easytraveller Team