Planning for Greece 2021

village street

We spent a month in Greece and I really think Rhodes is a good island to visit on a first trip to Greece if you only have a week.

Greece: Crete and Santorini

Santorini cliffs

This will be our third trip to Greece, which is still my favorite place to visit. This trip is about relaxation and spending time in nature. We’ll fit in some cultural sites where we can but that’s not a focus. One reason I like Greece so much is the blending of the cultural and historical with the natural.

How We Pack

two carryons and a rolling duffel bag

We used to travel carry-on only. Even though we check a bag now, we still travel light. Yes, we need to do laundry occasionally, but that’s easier than lugging a whole lot more stuff around.

Often Necessary but Unexciting Items

cat sniffing bag

When I think of packing I immediately think clothes. But smaller and less tangible items can be even more important. After all, I used to joke that I could go anywhere with a passport, a VISA card, and birth control pills.

Optional Items

baggage in a wheelbarrow in front of colorful huts

In addition to core items, there are optional items we take depending on the kinds of places we’re going and what we will be doing.

Core Items

two small bags on tarmac in front of plane

I’ve seen lots of good advice and several good packing lists online. (And mention some resources here.) We’ve adapted those to meet our needs. Here’s what works for us.

Sights & Activities

photos of typical sights

This is often why you came on this trip: to see the sights. So don’t waste valuable time standing in line to buy tickets. Or missing out because you needed to schedule a time and now there aren’t any spots available. Trust us. We’ve been there.

Building an Itinerary

bird is plotting something

We’re often asked if we’re taking a guided tour or have booked some kind of package. The answer — at least to date — is no! I do all the planning for our trips. Which amazes people. Which surprises me. I like researching and planning trips almost as much as I like taking them. And I think anyone can plan a trip. Here’s how I do it.

Transportation

old style train car in red and gold

Getting to your destination is often the single biggest expense of the trip. You also need to decide how to get around once you get there. Advance planning can save you time and money.