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Thursday, July 01, 2010

The legacy of Greece spans lifetimes, centuries and even entire epochs in the history of humanity. A visit to this spectacular country is a voyage through a land that showcases the remnants of empires and heroes under a resplendent sun amid surroundings of incomparable beauty. But beyond its cultural and historic legacy lies a stunning paradise of rolling hills dotted with olive trees, whitewashed villages, brilliant blue skies and turquoise seas. Once home to Dionysus, the god of wine and fertility, Greece has also retained its love of festivities and partying.

Transat Holidays, one of our largest travel partners, can help you explore this land of plenty thanks to its numerous vacations designed to thrill and awe you.

Athens
Named after the goddess Athena, the capital of Greece is a fascinating blend of old and new. Known as the birthplace of democracy, this ancient city with its historic monuments and magnificent sights blends seamlessly into a thriving metropolis that is home to bustling cafés, restaurants and bars.

What to see and do
Acropolis: An inimitable monument situated on a hill that is home to the Parthenon, a museum, the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike and the Erectheion. Plaka: The old Turkish quarter, packed with countless shops, tavernas, restaurants, discos and bars. Faliro, Vouliagmeni and Loutraki: Elegant seaside suburbs with fantastic beaches, great entertainment and an exciting nightlife.

Mykonos
This quintessential Greek island features traditional cube-shaped houses with stark white facades broken only by the intense blues and greens of doors and shutters and surrounded by brilliant blue seas.

What to see and do
Mykonos Town: One of the most picturesque places in Greece.
Nightlife: It is undeniably the party paradise of the Greek Islands.
Delos & Apollo Sanctuary: The legendary birthplace of Apollo and his twin sister Artemis.

Santorini
This beautiful island is what most of us envisage when we dream of Greece, and for once the reality far surpasses the fantasy. Few sights are more memorable than the dazzling whitewashed buildings that sit perched on the rim of black volcanic cliffs.

What to see and do
Fira: Built atop an extinct volcano, the picturesque main town of Fira is a kaleidoscope of eye-catching colours and experiences.
Beaches: The island features unique beaches with white, red and black sand. Akrotiri: An ancient city rumoured to be the Lost City of Atlantis.

Crete
This island paradise is a world of wonder with translucent seas, magnificent beaches, palaces and a scintillating nightlife. You'll find coastal towns with unique histories filled with lively tavernas, open-air cafés and many shops.

What to see and do
Knossos, Phaistos and Mallia: The ruins of three ancient cities that demonstrate the incredible wealth and sophistication enjoyed by the Minoan civilization. Rhymnon: The commercial centre of Crete, incorporating a blend of Venetian, Asian and Greek historical elements. Samaria Gorge: The longest gorge in Europe, surrounded by dramatic and rugged scenery.

Rhodes
This magical island combines the very best of Greece, both past and present. Explore the modern harbour of Mandraki, with its bustling energy and lively sidewalk cafés, or visit the mammoth gate and fortified walls of the medieval town.

What to see and do
Symi: A small picturesque island, which is a lively tourist haven.
Lindos: A bright gem of a village with an impressive beach.
Faliraki & Ixia: Popular beach areas on Rhodes with beautiful natural beaches and a lively nightlife.

Tuesday, June 01, 2010

We all “feel” better getting away on vacation. Did you know it really is not just your imagination? Science and statistics show it is true.  Vacations can reduce risk of heart disease, depression and even slow down the aging process. How about this statistic… Two vacations can cut your risk of heart attack by 50%.

Vacations help reduce stress, which will always help your health. 

Here are some other  tips to reduce stress during travel.

• Get away long enough time to let go of your daily grind.  A week is recommended.
• Watch your time zones – too many time zones actually increase your stress on your body’s natural rhythms.
• Don’t over schedule your trip – Make sure you have quiet time each day.
• Be social – making new acquaintances has a restorative power.
• Enjoy physical activity – moderate exercise like swimming and walking are great energy boosters.

How sad that a third or us do not use all our vacation days!  Hopefully this will inspire you to take some time to better your health with travel.

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