The Myth of All Inclusive Travel...

All-inclusive travel deals are PERFECT… on paper.

But what happens when you actually touch down on the sun-soaked shores of Greece ready to experience the culture, food, festivities and history you’ve dreamt about?

Well, let’s just say sometimes reality bites... and not always into a deliciously authentic Greek gyro.

Here’s what we’ll get into today:

• What You Miss When You Go All-Inclusive

• How to Go Non-All-Inclusive in Greece

• More of The Latest from Our Homeland

Your Local in Greece,

— Efi

What You Miss When You Go All-Inclusive

Don't get me wrong—there's definitely an allure to all-inclusive resorts.

You get to leave the wallet in the room, get the best landscape views from the pool (no need to trek to those picturesque but less accessible beaches), and you can hit up the buffet as many times as you want and then do it all over again… and again… and again.

And after it's all done? You leave with a nice tan and what feels like a slice of the memory of Greece.

But, do you really?

What about the tiny, family-run taverna hidden down an old cobblestone alley in Athens, where the moussaka recipes have been passed down for generations? Or the secluded beaches on small islands, where the only footprints in the sand might just be yours? What about the vibrant, chaotic, and utterly enchanting local markets, where the air is thick with the scent of fresh herbs and the bustling energy of everyday Greek life?

By staying within the polished confines of a resort, you might just miss out on the soul of Greece, which pulses vividly in its food, its streets, and its people.

Reality Check

Ever ended up at a hotel where the most cultural experience you had was watching a "traditional Greek dance" performed by a guy named Bob?

It happens more often than you'd think!

Here’s a quick rundown of the things you will miss.

✨Local Flavors: Stepping outside the all-you-can-eat buffet opens up a world of flavor. Ever tried real Greek moussaka made in a tiny taverna where the owner treats you like family?

✨Hidden Gems: That little beach that’s not on the resort map? It’s there, and it’s spectacular.

✨Authentic Experiences: How about a day trip to a small vineyard where you can sip wine under the olive trees instead of the pool bar's neon lights?

Rather than sticking to the script, why not write your own story? Explore. Wander. Taste.

How to Go Non-All-Inclusive

So, while all-inclusive might seem like the worry-free way to vacation, remember, a little adventure goes a long way.

Don't just travel to Greece—experience it. Break free from the brochure and make memories that are truly your own.

Ditch the schedule. Grab a map, rent a car, and let the little roads lead you where they want.

Eat local. Skip the hotel dinner for a night and find where the locals go. Hint: It’s where the menus are in Greek, and the fish was swimming this morning.

Talk to the people not just the tourists. Greeks are known for their hospitality. A simple conversation could turn into an invitation to a family feast.

And if you need some help working out the logistics, I’m here! A true Greek local who also happens to be a travel expert and have crafted unique itineraries for hundreds of clients who have turned into amazing friends.

So instead of that all-inclusive you were eyeing up.

Maybe you’d want to get lost in some mountain slopes instead.

Or hunt down that small village you read about online and see it in person.

Maybe you’d prefer to isolate yourself on a small island villa.

Or how does hopping around the islands sound?

More Of The Latest From Greece:

👉This Is Athens is starting this week and will run for the entire month of May, featuring over 250+ unique events in neighborhoods all over the city.

👉Don’t miss these Greek festivals during the summer!

👉A lesson we can all learn from one of the best beaches in the world being closed off this summer. (maybe it’s time to be better tourists?)

I hope our little chat today inspired you to consider a different alternative for your next vacation.

It might take a little more work and require a bit more planning (which I’m always here to help with), but trust me it will be worth it, as I know it was for so many others like Benjamin and his family.

See you next time! ✈️

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