greek culinary odyssey

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The ancient Greeks discovered and invented many of the foods and techniques used in modern cuisine.  We'll learn about how the simple, tasty food and cooking styles have become a standard for delicious food that gets high marks for health from nutritionists.  Exploring markets dating back centuries, cooking with Greek chefs, finding the best fresh local ingredients and eating in family run tabernas, as well as Michelin rated restaurants, we will cover the area around Athens, Nafplion, the Peloponnese an in Ancient Greece and the islands.

Our small group of 12 or less travels together to Athens to explore the ancient and charming Plaka where we find many small shops and tabernas on picturesque pedestrian streets.  The central market stretches for blocks and offers everything from fresh seafood to spices to olives, nuts and dates.  All of these wondrous food havens stand in the shadow of the Acropolis, which we will explore in depth and then watch the sunset over cocktails.

The Peloponnese serves up ancient ruins where legends of literature come to life in the amphitheaters, palaces, villages and treasuries. The unique cuisines of each are beg to be rediscovered, explored and devoured.  We will cook in an ancient village in a modern kitchen.

Then on to the islands the birthplace of Apollo , Olympian god of the  sun and light, music and poetry, healing and plagues, prophecy and  knowledge, order and beauty, archery and agriculture.  We will experience a farmstead to learn about farming in Cyclades and cook an organic meal.

This journey allows for time on your own to explore the towns and beaches or to just relax and take in the scenery.

We'll come away knowing that ancient Greek cuisine is something that influenced  culinary traditions throughout the world and ages.

$5990 per person plus airfare $1850 single supplement

What's included:

• 8 nights luxury accommodations  
• 3-4 cooking classes
• Eating in local tabernas and Michelin rated restaurants
• Learn Greek cooking with expert local chefs
• Visit the Plaka, Market and Acropolis in Athens
• Marvel at the the gorgeous Cyclades and the local artisanal cuisine
• Discover the ancient ruins in Peloponnese
• Explore the exotic markets of Athens
• Visit a sheep and goat farm producing cheese
• Drink wine at some of the best Greek wineries 
• Most meals (including the dinners prepared in your cooking classes)  
• Deluxe local transportation
• Guides and sightseeing
• Entrance fees
• Gratuities
• Wine with dinner

Not included:

• International airfare
• Travel insurance (we require travel insurance)
• Visas
• Items of a personal nature
• Anything not specifically stated in the detailed itinerary