adventures6

I read somewhere on this forum that the crowds seem to die down by the last week of August. My family of 6 (2 adults and 4 children ages 13-6) is planning on taking a trip to Israel and Jordan in August. We would love to finish off our trip in Greece. We could probably extend a few days into September. Is the last week in August suitable for my large family? Would it be a good idea to fly from the US to Athens, then to Israel and then back out of Athens to fly back to US. Any advice on finding flights from US to Athens? Any insights would be much appreciated!

laurie_ann

There would be many flight possibilities combining US based carriers with European carriers. I would look at "multi-city" intineraries on www.kayak.com or www.expedia.com for what might work for you. Also don't forget to look into airlines like El Al, Turkish Air and Royal Jordanian. All three of those airlines have US points of departure.

brotherleelove2004

Although it's true that the summer crowds are somewhat smaller by the end of August, it's all relative to the popularity of your chosen island destination. It will still 'feel' crowded because there will still be thousands of visitors to Greece inhabiting the islands then. Not all need to be back home for the start of the school year.

You'll save time and do less backtracking if you buy open jaw tickets so you fly into Athens and home out of Tel Aviv.

adventures6

Is Turkey a better option? We would really love to go to Greece. I've heard Samos would be les touristy?

brotherleelove2004

Again, "less touristy" is relative. Yes, less touristy than Mykonos and Santorini, more touristy than Sikinos or Megisti.

Samos is a good possibility because of the easy proximity to Turkey. Ephesus is very close once you reach Kusadasi. You could make your way to Istanbul (Great city!) and fly to Israel from there.

adventures6

What kinds of things could we do in Turkey with our young family? I don't know much about Turkey yet. I like the idea of ending in Greece because of the island setting. What do you think about doing Israel/Jordan then flying to Istanbul? We could then make our way to Kusadsi and then to Samos. We then go to Athens to fly back to the US. Is this too much to pack in? We have a 3-4 weeks time.

brotherleelove2004

Turkey has some amazing natural sites and archaeological sites, beautiful beaches and fun marketplaces. Practice your bargaining skills, expose your kids to the positive side of a Muslim culture.

Israel/Jordan then flying to Istanbul along with Kusadasi and Samos is a lot for 3-4 weeks if you want to relax.