Hey traveler, how are the ruins of Sparta looking up there?👀

Last week, we pinged you with a quick survey to see who's been lucky enough to tread the sun-kissed soils of Greece—and, boy, did you respond! The results are in (check them out at the end). Many of you flaunt Greek roots (envy much?), while others are itching to check in on family, or just dive into a sea of history and culture.

I’ve seen a lot of my international friends eager to come back to Greece to visit family… as well as many who are interesting in exploring a unique aspect of Greece (like history for example).

Which is why I have a tailor-made set of Legacy Trips, to mesh with your unique interests—whether you’re chasing family tales or ancient philosophers.

You can check them out here, and of course, if you’re all set to turn that long-awaited family reunion from dream to reality, or just make your trip extra special, hit me up!

My free 15-minute chats are always available.

Here’s what we’ll get into today:

• Setting things straight for wild Paros Island.

• Upcoming running events.

• Pablo Picasso in Delphi.

Your Local in Greece,

— Efi

The Biggest Travel Trends for 2024, as Predicted by Industry Insiders

While I have explored nearly 99% of Greece (seriously, don’t challenge me to a geography quiz!), my curiosity never rests.

Just the other day, I stumbled upon this article and one prediction caught my eye: the rise of 'destination dupes.' According to experts, travelers are on the hunt for under-the-radar gems that offer the same charm as popular spots but without the crowds. They cited Paros as a quieter alternative to Santorini.

Hold the ouzo, though! If you’ve partied on Paros anytime in the last few years, you’ll know it’s anything but under-the-radar. The island has radically transformed in recent years, with nightlife that can give Mykonos a run for its money. This got me thinking… how many ‘travel experts’ out there might just be guiding us blindly?

Online research can guide you to some extent, but there’s nothing quite like on-the-ground experience to paint the full picture. I don’t just read about the places we write about here, I walk their streets, chat with the locals, and occasionally, dance at their festivals (and drink their wine).

When you want the real scoop on Greek travel, away from the tourist traps and into the heart of what makes each island special, you know who to call.

Upcoming Running Events In Greece 2024-2025

Don’t forget to pack your running shoes along with your flip-flops, because Greece is sprinting into the spotlight with some show-stopping running events!

From the well-known Rhodes Marathon & Half to the grueling '300 of Sparta'—an epic 378-kilometer march that truly tests your Spartan-ess, there’s something for everyone. If you’re more of a behind the wheel type, you can find the best deals on rentals here.

Highlight on the calendar? The Alexander The Great International Marathon in Thessaloniki, zooming your way on April 21st, 2024.

Greek Break!

While 'Lepta' is the plural form of 'λεπτό' (lepto), which can mean 'small' or 'fine' in Greek, it also connects us not only to modern cents but also to an ancient past.

The lepton was first minted under Alexander Jannaeus before 76 BCE, and was later the value of 1/100th of a drachma (the original Greek currency). Today, 'lepta' is colloquially used to refer to cents or minor change.

So, next time you hear 'Lepta' in Greece, remember, you're dealing with a word that has held its worth through millennia!

Pablo Picasso Is Coming To Delphi For The First Time

From May 11 to June 10, 2024, the European Cultural Centre of Delphi (ECCD) is hosting a must-see exhibition titled 'Rare Posters and Ceramics by Pablo Picasso.'

This event is part of a global commemoration of the 50th anniversary of Picasso’s death and celebrates 50 years of democracy in Greece. The exhibition will showcase fifty-five rare and authentic posters created by Picasso, featuring his mastery in lithography, intaglio, and linoleum cuts—most of which are signed by the artist himself.

More Of The Latest From Greece:

👉Dire Straits will be live in Athens this June!

👉Get 30% until April 20th for your intimate retreat or workshop in the island of Aegina!

That’s it for today Spartans!

Was it enough to spark the travel bug for your next adventure in Greece? If not, let me know about what you’d like to see more of in your inbox, just hit reply!

Don’t forget to share this with a friend, we’ve got a lot of fun stuff coming…

See you next time! ✈️

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