Dreaming of Greece Series: The Bucket List Destination That Will Have You Wanting More

You might be wondering why a site dedicated to empowerment and thriving in life is suddenly whisking you away to Greece. Well, travel isn't just about escaping—it's about enriching our lives, broadening our perspectives, and reconnecting with what truly matters. For me, Greece does all this and more.
Have you ever dreamt of a place where ancient history meets sun-kissed beaches, where the food is fresher than your morning coffee, and the scenery looks like it’s been Photoshopped by the gods themselves? Well, welcome to Greece!

In 2024, Greece welcomed over 35 million tourists, and its popularity continues to soar, I still consider it the world's best-kept secret (but not for long if I have anything to do with it!). With over 200 inhabited islands, each offering its own unique charm, Greece is the ultimate choose-your-own-adventure destination. Whether you want to immerse yourself in history, lounge on pristine Blue Flag beaches, or eat your weight in fresh seafood and flaky baklava, Greece has something for everyone—and for every budget.

A Personal Journey: From Childhood Dreams to Family Adventures

I’m a first-generation American of Greek descent, and growing up, Greece was more than just a country on a map—it was part of my family’s DNA. My parents would take my brother and me to visit our grandparents and extended family, and even as a kid, I knew there was so much more I wanted to explore. The last time I went as a child, I was ten years old.

Then, life happened. School, work, raising kids, the ever-growing to-do list—I let too many things get in the way of returning to Greece. (Which, by the way, is why I write so much about making time for the things that matter—link to article here). But one summer, I finally stopped dreaming and started booking. We took three weeks off—yes, THREE!—and I packed up my boys (who, bonus, were old enough to help with luggage) to reconnect with our roots.

I thought I was bringing them to Greece to show them their heritage, but in reality, Greece showed us something even greater. It reminded us to slow down, savor meals, and embrace adventure. I fell in love with Greece all over again—harder this time—and now, I keep going back, adding new destinations to my must-see list every time. Yet, somehow, it still feels like I haven’t seen enough.

Why Greece? Let Me Count the Ways…

Breathtaking Beaches

Greece boasts over 6000 islands, and while not all are inhabited, the ones that are offer some of the most stunning Blue Flag certified beaches, meaning they meet top environmental and quality standards In 2024, Greece proudly hosted 625 Blue Flag-certified beaches, ranking second in the world—just behind Spain. This means Greece doesn’t just offer sun and sand; it offers some of the cleanest, most well-maintained beaches in all of Europe. Think crystal-clear waters, hidden coves, and sands that range from powdery white to volcanic black.

A History Lover’s Paradise

Where else can you casually walk past ruins older than most countries? From the Temple of Poseidon at Sounio to the Palace of Knossos in Crete, Greece is basically a giant open-air museum. Even if history wasn’t your favorite subject in school, seeing it in person is a whole different experience.

The Food. Oh, The Food

The Mediterranean diet is ranked number one in the world, not just because it’s good for you but because it’s an absolute gastronomic delight! Imagine biting into a tomato that actually tastes like a tomato, or feta cheese so fresh it practically melts in your mouth. Greek cuisine is all about simple, high-quality ingredients packed with incredible flavor. Whether you're savoring souvlaki at a seaside taverna, devouring fresh seafood by the harbor, or indulging in loukoumades (Greek “donut holes”) drizzled in golden honey, every meal is an experience to remember.

Something for Every Budget

Whether you’re looking for a luxury getaway or a wallet-friendly adventure, Greece truly delivers. You can splurge on a five-star resort in Santorini or enjoy charming, family-run guesthouses on lesser-known islands. Ferries make island-hopping affordable, and from a tourist’s perspective, dining out in Greece is noticeably more budget-friendly compared to some other European hotspots (ahem, Italy, I’m looking at you). Even though locals might say prices have gone up, visitors can still enjoy an amazing dining scene without breaking the bank or feeling guilty about ordering that extra round “meze” ("appetizer).

Beyond the Tourist Hotspots

Yes, Santorini and Mykonos are stunning, but Greece is so much more than its Instagram-famous islands. Consider Naxos for its perfect blend of breathtaking beaches, charming villages, and ancient history. Or Crete, equally rich in history, spectacular beaches, and cuisine that you'll remember long after your trip ends. One thing’s for sure—one trip to Greece is never enough; you’ll always leave with a growing list of islands, towns, and hidden gems you can't wait to revisit or discover next time.

My Big Fat Greek Adventure 2025

This year, I’m taking an extra-special trip—one that’s been decades in the making. My sister-in-law and her family are joining ours, and she hasn’t been back to Greece in almost a quarter-century! As the official trip planner (naturally), I’m crafting an itinerary that will take us from Sparta to Crete, reconnecting our children with their roots and, of course, creating some unforgettable family moments.

Naturally, I’ll be breaking out The Mommy Bag to keep everyone organized—because nothing screams seasoned traveler like a bag filled with sunscreen, snacks, back-up snacks, and handy wipes. I can’t wait to see all the first cousins—now adults—together in Greece!

Ready to Plan Your Greek Adventure?

If Greece isn’t on your bucket list yet, it’s time to add it—boldly, in capital letters, underlined twice! Whether you’re a history buff, a beach bum, a foodie, or someone simply seeking a magical escape, Greece has something unforgettable waiting for you. Trust me—one visit, and you'll be dreaming of Greece long after you’ve returned home.

I'll be sharing our family's "Big Fat Greek Adventure 2025" itinerary along with plenty of other travel tips and inspiration over the coming weeks. So make sure to subscribe (see footer at the bottom of the page) to follow along, get notified as soon as new posts are live, and gather itinerary ideas for your own trip!

I’d also love to hear from you! Drop a comment below with your favorite spots, travel questions, or tips—I might just feature your suggestion in our upcoming adventures!