Greek Isles: Crete, Santorini, and Athens

Experience the incredible diversity and undeniable magic of the Greek Isles—a mythic land of turquoise seas, azure skies, and brilliant white villages clinging to the coast. Relax on the isles of Crete and Santorini before marveling at the stunning monuments that have survived the ages in Athens, one of the Western World's most historic capitals. The past will come to life as you explore the incredible art and architecture of the ancient Minoan and Greek civilizations. Visit such legendary sites as the Palace of Knossos, Akrotiri, and the Monastery of Arkadhi. Stroll through the sunny streets of charming villages brimming with local color. From the historic Venetian harbor of Rethymnon to the stunning sunsets of Santorini and the bustle of Athens' Plaka, Greece charms visitors with ancient mysteries and magical vistas.

Highlights

• Experience the diversity of Greece and the Aegean islands while spending four days on Crete, four days on Santorini, and two days in Athens.
• Marvel at the "glory that was Greece" as you visit and learn about the most important archeological sites—Akrotiri, the Palace of Knossos, and the Acropolis.
• Immerse yourself in Greece's traditions of food and wine as you sample local dishes accompanied by vintages produced for generations.
• See astounding contrasts while sailing the ancient Aegean aboard a modern catamaran to Santorini.
• Your travel experience becomes a learning opportunity as local experts deliver fascinating lectures on history, art, culture, food, and wine.
• Meet the people: explore life in modern-day Greece as locals share their unique insights.
• This travel program provides "lifetime learning" and enrichment at a remarkable value.

Price starts at $3,395 including air.

John McEnroe, Professor of Fine Arts at Hamilton College, will accompany the trip. He received his Ph.D. from the University of Toronto and has taught at Indiana University and the University of Virginia. Fluent in Greek, John is an expert in the art of Crete and the Aegean and has many years of experience as a field archaeologist and excavation architect in that area. He has published a broad range of excavation reports, essays, and textbooks and has been awarded several fellowships and grants. His recent publications include Critical Perspectives on Art History (co-edited with Deborah Pokinski) and Pseira V: The Architecture of Pseira.

Please contact the Alumni Office if you're interested, 207-786-8344 or lgailey@bates.edu!