My wife, Sherri, and I have always dreamed of traveling to Greece, and to celebrate her retirement, we finally made it happen. From the moment we arrived, it became clear that Greece is a land of striking contrasts—its landscapes, its history, and even the spirit of its people varies dramatically from one place to another.

Our journey began in Athens, a city where the past and present coexist in a fascinating dance. Towering above it all, the Acropolis and the Parthenon dominate the skyline, visible from nearly every corner of the city. Despite the crowds of tourists, there’s a palpable sense of reverence here—an awe for structures built more than two millennia ago. One of the most memorable surprises was the Hellenic Parliament at Syntagma Square, home to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Every hour, the changing of the guard takes place, a ceremony as captivating as it is precise. From the guards’ $20,000 uniforms and nine-pound shoes to the pompom on their toes concealing a hidden knife, every element of the ritual reflects centuries of tradition.

From the bustling streets of Athens, we traveled to the serene beauty of Santorini, an island that lives up to every postcard-perfect image you’ve ever seen. Our first view of the caldera nearly took our breath away. Thousands of whitewashed villas cascade down the volcanic cliffs, framed by the deep blue of the Aegean Sea – a sight so stunning it feels almost unreal. It’s no wonder we kept repeating ourselves: Santorini is the island of a thousand pictures. We stayed in Fira, a charming town perched along the caldera, where countless steps wind their way up and down the cliffs. Each step rewarded us with sweeping vistas, vibrant sunsets, and unforgettable moments. Public transportation was easy, frequent, and inexpensive, making it simple to explore. One highlight was visiting the ancient ruins of Akrotiri, dating back to the 4th millennium B.C. The ruins are remarkably well-preserved and completely covered, offering a glimpse into a civilization that thrived thousands of years ago.

Our trip to Santorini wouldn’t have been complete without visiting the famous, blue-domed churches. After enjoying a quick espresso, we set off on a mile-and-a-half hike from Fira to Imerovigli. The path winds along the eastern edge of the caldera, offering breathtaking vistas at every turn. Along the way, we discovered charming shops, picturesque spots, and tempting little places to grab a snack.

Our final destination in Greece was the enchanting island of Corfu. From the moment we arrived, it was easy to see why Sherri declared, “Corfu, you have stolen my heart.” We fell in love with the Paleokastristsa beaches, the rugged cliffs, and the historic “Old Town,” which has stood for 3,000 years. Corfu’s charm is undeniable, a blend of natural beauty, history, and warmth that lingers long after you leave.

Throughout our journey, what made Greece truly unforgettable was not just its breathtaking sights or its delicious food and wine, but the warmth and hospitality of the Greek people. Every interaction left us feeling welcomed and inspired, a perfect reflection of the country itself—vibrant, timeless, and full of heart.