| From the enchanting writings of Homer to the | | | | volcanic island, you'll find white sand |
| celebrities of Greek mythology, the country | | | | beaches plus a few unusual varieties |
| of Greece has touched the lives of us all | | | | including grey sand, black sand and red sand. |
| whether we realize it or not. The Trojan | | | | |
| War, Helen of Troy, the first Olympics, | | | | With plenty of craftsmen, boutiques and |
| Alexander the Great, Plato, Aristotle, the | | | | jewelry to choose from, shopping is also a |
| Biblical city of Ephesus... the list goes on. | | | | fun pursuit. In addition, there are excellent |
| And of course, virtually everyone is | | | | open-air restaurants and cafes that let you |
| familiar with the Greek gods and goddesses | | | | enjoy authentic Greek cuisine. But one of |
| Zeus, Athena, Apollo and Hades. Whether you | | | | the most popular activities is watching the |
| long for a closer look at the real or | | | | sunsets. |
| mythical side of Greece, a tour of the Greek | | | | |
| Isles will satisfy your curiosity. Let's | | | | When the sun hangs low in the sky, the |
| take a look at two of the most popular | | | | cascade of oranges and golds sends a fiery |
| destinations that can be reached via Holland | | | | blaze across the sky that reflects off the |
| America and other cruise lines. | | | | water below. Amazing! |
| | | | |
| Santorini | | | | Rhodes |
| | | | |
| The unofficial colors of Santorini are blue | | | | Rhodes is a delightful island where you can |
| and white thanks to the abundance of | | | | participate in the three S's: shopping, |
| whitewashed buildings and the azure-blue sea | | | | sunning and sightseeing. This walled city |
| that surrounds the island. The contrast | | | | offers spectacular beaches that range from |
| makes for a very dramatic presentation as you | | | | crowded, tourist hotspots near luxury resorts |
| approach from the sea. | | | | to virtually untouched, secluded hideaways. |
| | | | There are dozens of beaches and bays to |
| The fun of your visit to Santorini begins the | | | | choose from around the island. |
| moment you depart the cruise ship. Reaching | | | | |
| the city requires a walk of about 600 steps, | | | | You can also partake in virtually every type |
| which, if you so desire, you can take on | | | | of water sport. Thanks to the shape and |
| foot. However, most opt for either riding a | | | | position of the island's curves, you often |
| cable car - which offers great views - or | | | | find perfect conditions for windsurfing. |
| riding a donkey, a fun experience for all | | | | When the sun goes down, the nightlife heats |
| ages. | | | | up with plenty of clubs available. |
| | | | |
| As your sightseeing of the island begins, you | | | | An aquarium, the Valley of the Butterflies |
| might elect to take a bus ride to the highest | | | | and the ancient village of Lindos are popular |
| mountain peak where the views are absolutely | | | | attractions for families. As you ascend to |
| outstanding! A local winery welcomes | | | | the Lindos ruins, the streets are lined with |
| tourists as do all the residents of the | | | | vendors selling their wares. Good buys can |
| quaint village you'll pass through during | | | | be had on practically everything imaginable |
| your excursion. | | | | including jewelry, leather goods, furs, |
| | | | carpets and more. |
| You may also choose to visit the ancient | | | | |
| archeological site of Akrotiri. This | | | | If you're looking for a vacation that's out |
| historic wonder has been preserved under | | | | of the ordinary, touring the Greek Isles is |
| volcanic ash for nearly 3,600 years and helps | | | | an excellent choice. With plenty to do for |
| depict what life in the Minoan period would | | | | all ages, you'll expand your mind and your |
| have been like. | | | | cultural knowledge while enjoying friendly |
| | | | people, exceptional food and intriguing |
| Don't forget to make at least a short visit | | | | sites. |
| to the local beaches. Because Santorini is a | | | | |