The Greek islands are known for their extreme beauty with many white buildings set against the deep blue Mediterranean Sea. The pictures are truly worth a million words. One can only truly experience this beauty by seeing it for yourself. We begin our Aegean journey on the island of Paros. This island is known as having some of the most beautiful beaches in all of Greece. One of the most typical islands of the Cyclades, it is famous for the traditional architecture, the lovely beaches and its nightlife. Parikia and Naoussa are the main villages of Paros, where most activities are concentrated, while there are also other seaside settlements around the island. Some of the lovely beaches are Santa Maria, Kolymbithres and Parasporos famous for its white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and mountain landscapes. We spend one day at the neighboring island of Naxos.
Santorini Island is ranked as the number one island in Europe by Conde’ Nast magazine. When you think of Greece and see the photos you are seeing Santorini. The sunsets alone are famous in their own right for the amazing colors and serene beauty of yet another wonderful day turning into a fabulous night. Santorini also boast vineyards to tour and the extreme topography of one side of the island being flat with wonderful beaches including a black sand and red sand beach. The other side of the island is the caldera side with its high cliffs and breathtaking views of the sea. This is where we will stay with amazing views over the Sea.
The last stop of this tour is Crete Island, this unique yet large and diverse island is home to the historic site of Knossos Palace, Venetian villages, mountains and so much more. We will stay in the picturesque town of Chania and it’s colorful Marina. You will experience wine tasting, Greek villages, learning of the Crete history and last but not least making your own Greek meal.
Day 1: May 24, 2024 Arrive into Athens and take the connecting flight to Paros Island.
Upon arrival into Athens you will take a short flight to the island of Paros. Upon arrival in Paros island enjoy a private transfer to the hotel. Check in and enjoy some time to relax at the beach or pool. Later today your tour leader will take you on a guided walk of the town of Naoussa. This evening enjoy a welcome dinner in town to meet your traveling companions for the week. Paliomylos Beach view hotel for 3 nights. (D)
Flights from Athens to Paros depart at 10:20 AM, 1:00 PM, 3:35 PM. **Please note unless doing carry on you have to collect and recheck your luggage in Athens. Please allow enough time for this when booking the flight to Paros.
Naoussa is considered to be one of the prettiest villages in the Cyclades, this lovely village has managed to keep its authenticity, traditional character and charm, with its whitewashed and flowered little buildings. Surrounded by labyrinth-like narrow, stone paved streets, the lovely village is built around a tiny picturesque port where little colorful fishing boats called caiques moor and the remains of a Venetian castle can still be seen, creating a unique and enchanting atmosphere. Little taverns and ouzeries are boarding the port, giving a friendly and traditional atmosphere. Though Naoussa is much quieter than Parikia, it offers several animated bars and nightclubs, opened until dawn. Also famous for its numerous beautiful golden beaches, filling the natural bay such as Kolymbithres Beach, Agios Ioannis, Agioi Anargyroi, Monastiri and many more. From the wildest and more secluded beaches to the fully organized ones, those beaches are ideal for everyone, covering all tastes and needs.
Day 2: May 25 Paros Island tour
After breakfast depart for a tour of the island. You will visit such Cities as Parikia and Lefkes and the sites the Panayia Cathedral, Monastery of Panagia Ekatontapiliani, Church of Agia Triada and many more sites this island has to offer. Your local guide will give you much of the islands history as well as showing you many wonderful sights and scenic views along the tour. After enjoy a wonderful local Greek lunch. The remainder of the day and evening is at your leisure. This evening is at your leisure your tour leader will assist with suggestions. (B, L)
Day 3: May 26 Paros at Leisure
With so many great beaches, the town of Parikia and the hotel Spa today is yours to enjoy as you choose. Dinner in town tonight. (B)
Day 4: May 27 Transfer to Santorini Island
After breakfast we check out of the hotel and transfer via fast ferry to the famous island of Santorini. Upon arrival transfer to our hotel on top of the Caldera in the town of Fira. Fira is a typical Cycladic village, made up of charming white houses with blue windows and doors, separated from each other by small, paved streets. Many of its beautiful buildings date back to the Venetian invasion. Don’t miss the famous sunset from just outside your hotel, one of the experiences this area is famous for. This evening have dinner in town with sunset views over the Caldera. Boutique hotel in Santorini 3 nights. (B,D)
Day 5: May 28 Santorini Island tour
Today is all about exploring the island. Start the day seeing some of the sights in Fira the Capitol city, we’ll continue with a visit to the traditional villages of Pyrgos and Megalochori, which offer stunning views of the island. We will drive along the ocean as we see the Black and Red sand beaches. We will enjoy lunch along the beach with time to enjoy this area. We finish our island tour in the whitewashed village of Oia, located on the hillside overlooking the caldera. (B, L)
Day 6: May 29 Island Boat Tour
Today we enjoy a tour of the coastal side of the island including the red and black sand beaches via our Catamaran. We will sail to the volcanic island of Nea Kameni with amazing views across the sea. Next the boat heads to the “Hot Springs” and their thermal sulfurous waters, where you can let yourself indulge in the warm and soothing waters. The vessel docks close to Thirassia, the second largest of the complex of islands forming the caldera, giving you the opportunity to escape into its crystal clear and refreshing blue waters. Meanwhile, the crew prepares a delicious traditional buffet of Greek food which will be accompanied by delicious local white wine. Next, head to the northern tip of Santorini and the town of Oia, with its two small fishing ports. The boat offers a unique vantage point from which to admire and photograph this traditional settlement. Relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery, while cruising over the Aegean Sea. The remainder of the day and evening is at your leisure to explore the island as you choose. Enjoy the remainder of the evening at leisure in the town of Fira. (B,L)
Day 7: May 30 Transfer to Crete Island
Your last day in Santorini offers you some leisure time to explore on your own. Take in some wine tastings at the many wineries, rent a buggy and tour at your leisure. Take the gondola ride down to the waters edge and then a donkey ride back to the top. In the late afternoon, we take the fast ferry to the island of Crete and transfer to our hotel, located near the port in the city of Heraklion. After check-in, we will enjoy dinner at a local tavern. Hotel Lato 1 night (B,D)
Day 8: May 31 Crete Island tour
After breakfast, embark on a full-day tour of the area. First, visit the archaeological site of the magnificent Minoan palace of Knossos, the center of Minoan civilization. Your licensed guide will give you an in-depth tour and discuss the site’s history and artifacts. Continue on to the wonderful area of Chania (Hania), with stops along the way. Among the tour Highlights: the quaint towns of Rethymnon and Georgioupoli, Greek winery, and of course, you’ll have time to snap some photos along the way. We will have an amazing Greek lunch with a setting that is out of the movies. Arrive in Platanias for our beach stay at the hotel Porto Platanias for 2 nights (B,L)
Day 9: June 1 At Leisure
Your last day on Crete and in Greece will be spent at leisure. Enjoy time to relax at the beach. Visit the town of Chania and its old buildings offering a unique Venetian history of the island. Visit the local market here for authentic shopping of olive oils and honey grown and harvested on the island. Many other wonderful shops offer great deals on local crafts and goodies to bring home. Enjoy dinner tonight to say goodbye to Greece and your new friends. (B, D)
The Old Town of Chania is built on the remains of the Minoan Kydonia and comprise of many historic districts. People with different cultures and morals lived in Chania creating a unique atmosphere. Right across the town’s entrance you will see the magnificent Venetian Lighthouse, which was built during the 16th century. The archaeological findings reveal that the region was constantly inhabited since the Neolithic Age and was an important town during the Minoan, Byzantine and Roman period. Especially during the Roman period Chania was an important financial and cultural center. But then the Turks came and everything changed. After the liberation of the town from the Turks, Chania along with the rest of Crete, united with the Greek State.
Day 10: June 2 – Departure Day – You will fly out of Chania, Crete (CHQ) Departure times from Chania are at 6:20 AM and 9:50 AM. Please consult with us regarding the best option on your return flight as most flights should be booked as a continued route departing from Chania via Athens or other city. (B)
Visitors from the US, Canada and Australia need a valid passport, Visas are not required for Americans, Canadians or Australians visiting for less than 3 months. If you are a citizen of another E.U. country, you do not need a passport, only an identity card. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after the date you intend to leave the European Union. Make sure you check your passport expiry date at least 2 months prior to travel. Before traveling abroad it’s a good idea to make two photocopies of your passport, driver’s license and credit cards. Leave one copy at home with a friend or family member and another bring with you.
Greece is 7 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (NYC) 8 hours ahead of Central Standard Time, 9 hours ahead of Mountain Standard Time (DEN), and 10 hours ahead of Pacific Standard Time (LAX). Greece does observe daylight saving time, The European 24-hour clock is used to measure time, so on schedules you’ll see 3:30 PM as 15:30, and 11:00 PM as 23:00
Greece has a warm, dry climate. The best time to visit begins in May. Paros may have some strong winds, and Crete is mild and sunny nearly all year round, Santorini may get some winds however it keeps a nice warm temperature. Temperatures will range from the mid to upper 80’s for day and low to mid 70’s for the evenings.
The local currency in Greece is the euro. The best way to get cash in the local currency is from an ATM. Keep in mind that most banks impose a fee every time a card is used at another bank’s ATM, and that fee can be higher for international transactions ($1 – $3) so try and withdraw as few times as possible. Credit cards are accepted by most shops and restaurants however check with your credit card company regarding foreign exchange fees. You will also have a better chance making deals at local shops if paying with cash.
Voltage in Greece is 200 volts AC (50 cycles) and the plug is the typical European plug with two round prongs. Many stores in North America sell the appropriate transformers and adapters, and they can also be purchased on arrival in Athens airport, as well. Any heat generating appliances that you bring need a transformer, and they may still not work properly with the different voltage. Small electronics which are such as laptops, tablets, Phones, etc., have dual voltage, so you only need a plug converter.
Greece has a value-added tax (VAT) on most purchases made within the country, and the displayed price already includes it. It ranges from 6% (for books) to 23% (general goods). Luxury goods such as jewelry, and expensive imported liquors include a 30% built-in tax. To get a VAT refund on purchases that qualify, present your passport to the salesperson and ask for the special stamped form. Present the form with your purchases at the booth marked IVA Tax Refunds at the airport, as you leave the country. You’ll get your money refunded right at the booth.
Greece does not offer free medical treatment to visitors. Travelers from Canada and the United States must pay for medical services rendered, but will be reimbursed by their travel insurance. Your health insurance provider may not cover you while traveling to Greece so it is best to check with them prior to travel. It is always advisable to purchase a travel insurance plan while traveling abroad. This way you will be covered for accidents, injury and illness. No vaccines are required for Greece. The water is not safe to drink and thus bottled water must be used to drink and in same cases at certain hotels for brushing your teeth.
This trip has a fairly limited activity level however at each stop we will be walking quite a bit. Most streets are uneven pavement or on cobble stone paths. To be able to fully enjoy the tour and participate in scheduled activities, you need to be able to walk, at a leisurely pace, up to 3 or 4 or so miles on some days. You should be able to stand unassisted for up to 30 minutes at times during the tours. You will need be able to keep up with the group without any assistance. At times you will need manage your own luggage. This trip is pretty easy for the average person however if you can’t or choose not to participate in certain activities this is at your own discretion. However it cannot affect the groups participation nor can any tours or activities or refunds be offered or changed due to an individual not being able or not wanting to participate.
We are here to answer any questions you have.
This document outlines what Women Traveling the World LLC agrees to provide when you sign up for a tour, and what you agree to do in return. This information is very important, please read it carefully.
Current tour prices are listed on the page corresponding to each tour. Due to currency fluctuations, cost increase and situations out of our control tour prices may change without notice at any time. Tour participants who already registered for a tour will not be affected by any price changes.
Included in the price of the tour:
A full-time tour leader/guide with 6 or more clients and licensed in-country tour guides are used for tours.
Any tours, meals, activities or otherwise stated for each individual tour.
Any tours, meals, activities or otherwise stated for each individual tour.
Tour prices DO NOT INCLUDE: airfare (unless noted) and airport/departure taxes (unless stated as such in the tour), other transportation to the tour location, laundry charges, telephone calls, room service charges, mini-bar charges, all items of personal nature. Travel, accident, baggage, health, or life insurance policies. Gratuities for guides and drivers are not included in the itinerary. Passport and/or visa when applicable. Additional tours or activities not listed in the itinerary.
In the case of computer or human billing error we reserve the right to re-invoice Participants with correct billing.
ADDITIONAL EXPENSES INCURRED AS A RESULT OF DELAY, CHANGE OF SCHEDULES, ILLNESS, WEATHER, STRIKES, HOSTILITIES, QUARANTINE, GOVERNMENT REQUISITION OF HOTEL SPACE, OR ANY OTHER REASONS BEYOND THE CONTROL OF WTTW, SHALL BE BORNE BY THE PARTICIPANT.
Single supplements are available on a limited basis at additional cost. The actual cost of a single supplement for each tour is listed on the Tour Details page for each tour.
Roommates: The Tour Organizers will attempt to match you with a roommate based on age/smoker or not. If the Tour Organizers match the Participant with a roommate whom the Tour Participant deems unsuitable, then the Tour Participant must either change roommates on her own or simply accept the current roommate and make the best of it. There will be no refunds for complaints about roommates, and if any Tour Participant departs the tour because of a roommate, there will be no refund. We try to match you up the best we can but cannot promise a guarantee as to companionship. If WTTW cannot find a roommate due lack of enough participants wanting a roommate then a single supplement will be charged.
Baggage: We recommend that Tour Participants take a carry-on bag as per airlines restrictions and include any needed toiletries, medications a change of clothes or anything else you simply can’t’ live without for 24-48 hrs in case of baggage loss or delay. Baggage is carried at owner’s risk and baggage insurance is strongly recommended. We are not responsible for baggage loss/delay due to airline error.
Health: Woman traveling the World tours includes a lot of walking, stairs, hiking, and standing while sightseeing. All Tour Participants should be prepared to walk at least three miles a day on uneven surfaces, including steps, during days on which excursions are scheduled. If you have any concerns regarding your physical ability to participate in the tour, we strongly recommend that you consult your physician before signing up. Any pre-existing physical, mental, or emotional disability that may require attention or treatment must be reported in writing prior to the beginning of a tour. Tour Participants who require any form of assistance must be accompanied by a helper who is capable of and totally responsible for providing such assistance. The group’s itinerary will not be adjusted for people who are not able to keep up with the rest of the group. All Tour Participants are required to complete and sign a Medical Release and Waiver Agreement. On the day the tour begins, or any day thereafter, if you leave the tour for an, unforeseen medical or family emergency, money will be refunded, “ONLY” if you have purchased “trip insurance” then the terms of that policy will apply and the insurance company would be responsible for any refund as per the policy. Woman Traveling the World is not responsible for any refunds for a trip interruption or delay of your own cause. The minimum age for participants is 18. There is no maximum age, however you must be able to keep up with the pace of the group. Smokers may smoke only outdoors and downwind from the group – never in hotel rooms or during group meals or activities. Smokers will stay in a single room, unless they share a room with another smoker.
Travel Insurance: Not included in the tour price. We highly recommend obtaining individual travel insurance for the duration of the tour (trip cancellation, foreign medical, flight delays and cancellations, medical evacuation). For an overview of available options in travel insurance coverage please contact us. You acknowledge that trip insurance has been presented to you in the Tour Booking form if you decline to purchase trip insurance then you are on your on for any cancellations of your own doing or non covered issues as mentioned herein.
Travel documents and Visas: Tour Participants are required to have a valid passport and a visa, if necessary. Incomplete documentation will result in the airline and airport authorities refusing permission to enter the country. The Tour Organizers will not arrange for passports or visas and will not be held liable for any irregularities caused due to improper documentation. Each Participant is responsible for determining specific passport and visa requirements in the Participant’s country of origin and for obtaining the necessary documents prior to departure. Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the anticipated tour date. It is suggested that all Participants check with the appropriate Consulate regarding their visa requirements.
Tour itineraries are subject to change: Due to unexpected circumstances, we reserve the right to cancel, change or substitute an activity or a service. During local or national holidays abroad, certain facilities such as museums, sightseeing tours, and shopping may be limited. Uncompleted portions of the tour itinerary are not cause for refund.
Waiver of responsibility: Women Traveling the World and its representatives (“Tour Organizers”) are making all ground arrangements pertaining to the Tour, including, but not limited to, hotel and restaurant reservations, sightseeing and side trips, subject to the condition that the Tour Organizers will not be held liable to injury, death, delay, theft, damage, or irregularities, however caused. Tour Organizers will take no responsibility or liability for: 1. injury, loss, or damage to persons or property, including luggage. 2. Additional expenses resulting from changes in exchange rates, tariffs, or schedule. 3. The act or default of any company or person engaged in conveying the Tour Participants, or in carrying out the arrangements of the Tour, or otherwise. 4. Additional expenses incurred or due to sudden sickness, weather conditions, strikes, or other causes or acts of God. 5. Losses due to cancellations.
Travel: Participants are responsible for their own travel arrangements to and from the tour location. Please note that some tours start and end in different cities and an “open jaw” or “Multi City” air ticket is required. This is noted in each itinerary.
Tour Payments: To reserve space on any tour, a deposit of $500.00 per person per tour is required at the time of booking. Some tours require a higher deposit and this is noted in the tour details.
No reservation is considered confirmed until the deposit is received by Women Traveling the World. The deposit is part of the final payment which must reach us no later than 60 days prior to the start of the tour. Returned checks will incur a fee of $50.00 For all deposits and tour payments, we accept personal checks, Visa, Master Card, bank wires, Zelle. Missing the final payment deadline may result in being removed from the tour.
Cancellations and refunds: The tour deposits are not refundable if you cancel for a non insured reason. All cancellations must be sent in writing via email. Do not consider a cancellation received and effective until you get a cancellation confirmation from us.
Tour Cancellation: Although we do our best to avoid this, it may occasionally become necessary for Women Traveling the World to cancel any tour due to insufficient sign-ups or any other cause. We recommend NOT to purchase your air until 60 days prior to departure unless you have been informed otherwise that the tour is a definite go. If a tour is cancelled due to low enrollment, you will be notified at least 60 days in advance of the tour departure date. In this case, your entire payment will be refunded to you within fourteen days after the tour cancellation. Refund of payments made constitutes full settlement, and releases Women Traveling the World from any further liability. We are not responsible for any additional expenses incurred by tour members preparing for a canceled tour, such as nonrefundable airline tickets, travel insurance cost or passport fees. If a tour is cancelled due to a natural disaster, strike, or other event outside our control, we cannot guarantee the 60 days notice.
Loss & Liability: Women Traveling the World strongly encourages all tour Participants to purchase Travel Insurance to cover additional costs (airline tickets, loss of luggage, trip delay or tour cancellation, personal accident, medical evacuation, etc.). We assume no liability for the safety of any Participant while in transit or during the tour. Women Traveling the World is not responsible or liable for loss, damage or theft of luggage or personal injury, accidents, or illness while on tour nor for any type of trip interruption.
Photographs: Representatives of the Tour Organizers may photograph the Tour. The Tour Organizers reserve the right to publish any such photographs without obtaining further consent from any Participant. Each Participant releases the Tour Organizers and their representatives from any liability in connection with any such use of such photographs.
Leaving the tour: The Tour Organizers reserve the right to accept, decline, or retain any person as a Participant on the Tour at any time without liability and without any obligation to pay a refund or any other amount whatsoever. The Tour Organizers take no responsibility or liability for any Participant who leaves the Tour prior to its conclusion or for any activity undertaken by any Participant that is not included on the Tour itinerary. There will be no discounts or refunds for any Tour Participant who temporarily leaves the Tour and then returns to the Tour later.
Unruly guest. We at WTTW ask all our clients to conduct themselves in a mature and courteous manner while on tour. If a client becomes unruly, argumentative or drunk beyond control and interrupts the tour or other clients in any way it is our right to call this person aside and issue a formal warning. If this behavior becomes consistent and creates a problem for other clients WTTW reserves the right to ask the participant to either leave the tour early, get her own room at her own cost if she has a roommate who has been interrupted due this behavior or take any and all necessary action to protect the health, safety and well being of the other travelers. Any such action taken that results in additional cost shall be the sole responsibility of the client who has created the issue. This is to protect all clients and assure them of a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience.
Special Requests: We will advise hotels of any special requests of Tour Participants provided we receive the request at the time of booking. However, we cannot guarantee all requests.
Allergies/Dietary Restrictions: Please answer these questions on the booking form so we can advise the restaurants for the included meals.
Payment of deposit or full payment shall be deemed as consent by the Tour Participant to the above Terms and Conditions.
PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY: I am entirely responsible for my own personal safety, physical and health mental and general well-being during and after the Tour. I release Women Traveling the World LLC and its representatives and any of their employees, assistants, and affiliates of any liability for any injuries or damages mentally or physically I or any of my family members might incur during or after the Tour. I understand that no health insurance or travel insurance will be provided by the Tour Organizers, and, if I wish to be insured, I must do this myself.
Women Traveling the World is registered with the state of Florida as a seller of travel, Registration No. ST38808. We are also bonded.
