Firstly, it isn't the same place, Greece is a pretty big place with a lot of different islands, landscapes , beaches etc etc. Secondly, I haven't had a rubbish holiday yet and that is down to the Greek people themselves.
We have been to Zakynthos, Rhodes, Corfu, Parga (mainland) and Crete twice east and west. Every holiday has been different and each time we have pushed ourselves to experience more gradually releasing ourselves from the safety net of the big holiday companies and going out exploring on our own. We've hired mopeds and boats and cars tried to avoid coach tours just because the thought of spending 6 hours on a coach is my idea of hell.
We haven't just stuck to the beach , we have visited museums, natural springs, caves, mountains archaeological sites and so much more. Trying the local food is a must and if I could advise anyone I would say avoid the big restaurants and head to the back streets or off the beaten track you really won't be disappointed and there will always be a great welcome for you.
Also take your time to get to know the people, ask them questions about the places to visit and things to see, sometimes they give you some insight that no travel company can. The big fancy hotels with spas and lovely views are nice I am sure but the small family run hotels are I have to say the backbone of Greeces tourism industry and the Greeks work hard to make sure you have a great time.
There are so many beautiful places to see in Greece and that's why we keep returning because it offers so much, the beaches are lovely, I've also seen dolphins whilst we where out on a boat trip from Parga, a really magical experience ! We have experienced lots of "Greek nights" and they have all been fun and enjoyable.
So there are still places we haven't seen and still places I want to visit and for myself Greece offers everything fun, sunshine, lovely people, history, views and great memories.
So if you haven't yet tried Greece and you fancy an adventure then give it a go, it really is so much more than hot sun and a beach and sunbathing, although they are pretty good too! Do your homework beforehand see whats in the area to visit, don't be afraid to hire a moped,quad or car . Shop around for boat trips and if you are hiring a boat listen to the safety talk these people run a business for a reason ! If you are dining out then a lot of the big restaurants on the main strips will try and press you and you will pay a little extra to eat there, you can always ask your hotel owner to give you some tips and we haven't been disappointed when we have tried one that has been recommended for traditional Greek food.
Lastly, the Greeks work really hard, sometimes people have this mindset that it must be nice for them living in Greece, having siestas and everything seems laid back. They work very hard whether its cleaning your rooms , working in the bars and restaurants they put in some long hours, some of the younger Greeks travel away from home to work. The taxes and austerity measures in Greece mean that there has been changes, yes things are slightly more expensive, yes you might sometimes have to pay extra for air-con, prices might even have gone up or you might have to pay a tourism tax. I don't begrudge them any of it, the Greek public work hard to make tourism work and its a business, they are building a future for their families. So don't forget that if you have enjoyed yourself or had a great meal or your hotel has been amazing then just remember to say thanks, they really do appreciate it.
