Purdue74

Which month(s) will have the best weather and which cruiselines should we research for the Greek islands? I am also posting on the cuise forum. Thanks for any help--

luvtotravel

May and September are lovely months for the Greek islands. Summer is just too hot, crowded, and expensive to recommend.

travelerjan

Hey Purdue, IU here (tho I am NOT going to post my Graduation year!!) --

luvtravel is right about the good months ... but you have a big question to answer:

Do u want (1) a sea voyage or (2) do u want to really see the Greek Isles?

IF SEA VOYAGE, cruises are great --- it's all about the ship, and the food, and the entertainment, etc, with brief stops of 4-7 hours on 4 or 5 islands (cruise ships really are limited to 4-5 islands, because only these have the deep-water docks that can accommodate those HUGE ships with thousands of passengers.

You will be limited mainly to the port cities, streaming ashore with crowds of others. And before the sun sets, you will have to be back on the ship to eat dinner at the same table with the same people, every night.

Now, if that's your style, you'll really enjoy a cruise, and it's just a matter of which line to choose.

IF it's SEE the ISLES -- you will do better to construct a trip that will take you to 4 or 5 islands in 12 or 15 days, and give you 3 days at least on each island. You can do this by flying to the farthest destination and taking ferries to "hop" back. This way, you can be sitting at harborside in a lovely taverna, toasting the sunset, instead of waiting in line for a launch to get you back onto a ship Again.

You do NOT have to do this yourself; there are a number of wonderful agencies based in Athens, that are used to setting up trips for Americans. They can obtain all your tickets, arrange "transfers" by car to ports, and to the next hotel, and set up car rentals, and tours --so you don't even have to lift a bag or make a call. But you'll have the freedom of planning your OWN days, instead of being in a cruise crowd.

This is EASY to arrange -- the important thing is to know which islands would please you most. The mistake people make, both for cruises or agency travel-plans, is to echo echo echo the American cliche tour of Santorini-Mykonos-athens.

There are many wonderful alternatives (or additions) to that trio -- and Fodorites can advise you well, if you share more about you & yr interests.

I'm guess u are in your 50s; are you athletic? like hiking? Ancient sites? Rural villages? or are you more for cafe-sitting? Shopping? Good food?
The more u share, the more we help.
Enjoy your planning!

Momliz

could you give the name(s) of some of these agencies?

brotherleelove2004

Fantasy Travel

http://www.fantasy.gr/greek-travel-agency/index.html

Dolphin-Hellas

http://www.dolphin-hellas.gr

luvtotravel

It's been eight years, but I was quite happy with the services of Dolphin-Hellas. I even made a point of stopping into their office in Athens to meet them where we received a warm, friendly greeting.

travelerjan

Momliz, BRotherlee has got it right ... there may be others, but those 2 get consistent OKs on these forums. I would suggest you query both, and see which is the most prompt responding.

Since (I'm guessing), you are going in 2009, not 2008, why not wait until the worst of the High Season (July-Aug) is over to make your inquiries. THen they won't be rushed off their feet, and will be able to give your requests full attention.

ALSO (to repeat, sorry) to get the best results,if u can, DO send a fairly detailed e-mail query with:

(1) rough time frame & length of trip (i.e. 16+ days, mid-May NOT including arrival or departure day).

(2) Total budget limit for lodgings, transfers and transport, aside from RT fares to Athens (u might lowball this just a bit, since they will go UP to your limit, not below).

(3) List of places that interest u. Otherwise they may think u are one of those "lemming" US travellers who only want Santorini-Mykonos-Athens... (BTW, If u do the first, the 2nd will be of less interest).

Some other destinations of possible interest that can be linked to those above:
ISLANDS- Paros, Naxos, Delos (IF u are a ruins-buff, a day trip to Delos AND Mykonos is offered from Paros or Naxos), Folegandros, Sifnos,OR Crete (if u can give it at least 4 days)
MAINLAND - 2-day trip to Delphi & Meteora, 2-day trip to Nafplio, w. visit to Mycenae & Epidaurus.

(4)Any other priorities, i.e. you do/ don't wish to rent a car at any stop,
any physical limitations and -- as mentioned before, special interests.

NOTEince u have the time,browse guides in libraries/Barnes & Noble & learn a bit; EYEWITNESS guide to grk Isles excellent as a visual oveview.
======================
When u get a response, then is the time to ask for a phone consult; (use one of those 10-10 bargain numbers); an in-person talk is SO important to clarify matters.

Happy planning! With the ample time
for spade work, you have opportunity to set up a great trip, independent yet stress-free, hassle-free, so u can relax & enjoy the Real Greece!

Go Boilermakers (NOT) ---- TJ

Momliz

Wow! Thank you so much, TJ!

yes, I am not really interested in the usual Santorini-Mykonos-Athens, but islands a little off the beaten path. Some ruins, but mostly beaches, beautiful villages and friendly people. Guess I will start researching. This trip isn't for a while yet, '10 maybe since I have other trips lined up as well.

thursdaysd

In addition to the books, spend some research time on this site: www.greektravel.com - lots of great info.