Destination Inspiration: Greece
Greece was always on the top of my list when I dreamed of worldschooling. And after spending a month in the country during our year of worldschooling, it did not disappoint. Here are seven why Greece just might be a destination inspiration in your family travels.
Staying on a farm in Crete, Lucy got invited to help exercise the horse, Whiskey.
Greece is Warm and Welcoming
Greece has many draws–history, food, Mediterranean Sea–without the crowds and prices you might find in other European locations. Greeks are known for their warm and welcoming nature, making it easy for worldschooling families to feel at home and integrate into local communities.
Of course, there are areas that have a high concentration of tourists, but my personal take is that Greeks are welcoming because they have not been overwhelmed by swarms of tourists. Once, on the island of Tinos, we stopped in a small village for lunch and a visit to the church. An old man in a fedora patted the empty chair next to him and offered me tea (or was it ouzo?). We giggled and gestured our way through a conversation. This openness was characteristic of the people we met everywhere.
THE FOOD
Greek cuisine is known for its delicious flavors and healthy ingredients. Children can learn about traditional cooking methods, local ingredients, and the importance of a balanced diet. As vegetarians, we found the Greek diet especially easy.
Rusk salad. I could eat this meal every day.
We especially enjoyed Greek salads, rusk salads, baked gigande beans, local fish, and octopus. Many areas also serve Middle Eastern staples like hummus and pita. Some memorable foods include pickled hyacinth bulbs, baklava (from an entire bakery that only made varieties of baklava), and fresh cheese. On the island of Naxos, we took a family-friendly food tour with Philema. We met candy makers and cheese makers and learned the ins and outs of pressing olive oil.
The History
Greece is steeped in history, with a cultural heritage that dates back thousands of years. Worldschooling in Greece offers the opportunity for children to explore ancient ruins, visit historical sites such as the Acropolis in Athens, and learn about famous philosophers, mythology, and the birthplace of Western civilization. The country is home to numerous archaeological sites, making it an ideal place for hands-on learning experiences. Partial reconstructions, active excavation, and computer generated modeling of ancient temples and cities make for inspired learning.
There’s also the small and humble chapels and sanctuaries that dot the hillsides. Even some three-thousand-year-old chapels are open for you to explore on a hike. Maybe say a prayer, enjoy the mosaic artwork, light some incense, and continue along your way.
For more current history, the nearby tragedies of the war in Syria and poverty of northern Africa have made their way to the shores of Greece. You will see recent immigrants and current events become real, prompting discussion and learning through empathy. And exposure may prompt action from near and far.
Greek Mythology and Kids are a Magical Mix
At the tour of Minos Palace on Crete, my kids shared the story of Minotaur, recounting it with wonder.
One of my three kids had studied ancient Greek mythology before we left. Her curiosity rubbed off on my younger two and we loved to study as much as we could. We read classic versions of the tales and even the Percy Jackson series (although not exactly traditionally correct) fanned the flames of passionate interest. Once, at King Minos’ palace on Crete, my third and fourth graders answered the guides’ questions and proceeded to regale their favorite stories to the tour group.
We visited temples built for the gods, wrote our own myths to explain natural phenomena with the gods as main characters, and recognized the symbols and stories we saw on murals and paintings throughout Rome, London, and other European cities. When exploring ruins, countrysides, and caves, the myths are palpable.
Natural Beauty
From picturesque islands with beautiful beaches to stunning mountains and charming villages, Greece offers a diverse range of landscapes. Worldschooling in Greece allows children to learn about geology, natural history, and environmental science firsthand. Greece offers various outdoor activities, such as hiking, swimming, and sailing. Children might gain a broader respect and love for the ecosystems of the Mediterranean.
From the islands to the interior mountains, from picturesque olive farms to pine forests, from views of the ocean floors to the snow-capped peaks, Greece offers it all.
Recreating a temple to Demeter on Naxos, you can see archaeologists at work.
Art and Culture
Greece has a rich artistic and musical heritage, and children can learn about traditional arts, crafts, and music through workshops and local events. Stone quarries, sculpture, and architecture might also play to your child’s interests.
Greek is a unique and ancient language with a fascinating history. The alphabet dates back to the eighth century BC and both Romance (Latin) and Cyrillic languages are based upon it. You might learn the sounds that are unfamiliar and then sound out items in the grocery store.
The Odyssey has been modified and abridged for all ages. For older travelers, they might read Homer’s original or immerse themselves in the works of Aristophanes, Euripides, or Sophocles.
Budget-Friendly
In the month of May, the weather is just right, prices are low and you can always find a chair.
From our experience, Greece is less expensive than other Western European countries. Travel by ferry, short-term rentals, and off-peak travel (anything other than August) can drastically lower the costs for families. You can also choose lesser-known islands and destinations like the island of Tinos or the city of Thessaloniki. Santorini Dave is a website that is dedicated to everything you need to know to travel to and around Greece.
For all of these reasons, we hope you Greece becomes one of many destination inspirations for family travel!
