Experiental Tourism: Why there is nothing like a Greek summer

Greece over Summer is pure magic and for anyone lucky enough to have experienced some time here over the months of June, July and August would surely agree that every day in Greece over the warmer months feels like a non-stop celebration of life, love, food, sea, sun and good times, greekcitytimes.com reports.

Greece’s climate

When you experience the beauty of a Greek summer, chances are you will a) never want to leave b) want to return asap and c) leave with the impression that Greece is a tropical paradise all year round. This is because you can basically count on every day bringing with it endless sunshine- as over the months of June, July and August there is minimal rainfall and the water temperature is ideal, placing Greece on top of the list as a perfect summer getaway.

A taste of paradise

Your palate will believe it has arrived in paradise with Greek summer produce overflowing in your mouth- from local flavours and delicacies including Xorta (wild greens), Syka (figs), Gigantes (legumes), Xoriatiki Salata (Greek salad using the freshest tomatoes and cucumbers), Greek cheeses, homemade bread, extra virgin olive oil, fresh fish, meats and seafood straight from the ocean. Every region in Greece has its own renowned recipes and dishes, which will leave you yearning for more. Whether you are in a remote village in the Peloponnese tasting your thia’s (aunt’s) moussaka she made using homegrown potatoes, zucchinis and eggplant, on the buzzing island of Mykonos grabbing a souvlaki pita at 4am on your way back to your hotel room, or in Athens sharing an array of mezedakia (appetizers) with your friends at a local taverna in Gazi, chances are you will be overwhelmed with the simple but mouthwatering tastes the country has to offer.

Best beaches in the planet 

There is a good reason as to why Greece’s beaches are always ranked as some of the best in the globe. Firstly, let’s face it, the Aegean water is second to none and it doesn’t matter what part of Greece you are visiting, chances are there is a beautiful beach nearby with crystal blue water awaiting you. And whether you are after a family-friendly beach, a great place to scuba dive, jet ski, or just sit back and relax, you will find one that is perfect for you.

Top iced-coffees in the world

Where else can you sit back on a sunbed and order a Frappe or Freddo, while listening to cool sounds and taking in the stunning Mediterranean views? Coffee is a part of Greek culture and over the warmer months, Greeks are known for spending hours sipping on their iced coffee. Whether it’s for a morning pick me up, an afternoon coffee hit or just cruisy days on the beach, an iced coffee and Greek summer go hand in hand.

Summer Festivals 

Most regions in Greece hold summer festivals, celebrating great music, theatre, dance, and visual arts. The Athens & Epidaurus Festival is one of the most anticipated; organized in the Greek capital, people from all the world gather at some of the most beautiful ancient sites of Athens, to enjoy all things art. Every part of Greece has its own festival, which attracts locals and visitors who can experience some wonderful entertainment.

Open Air Cinema 

During summer, the public is invited to the Athens Open Air Film Festival. It is a special time when the Greek capital’s neighbourhoods, parks, plazas, beaches, archaeological sites, and landmarks transform into open-air cinemas with free admission to the public.

Party all day and night 

Nightlife and Greek summer go hand in hand and here you have the opportunity to go straight from the beach to a bar and chances are at some point over your holiday, you may go from bar straight back to the beach for a morning swim. Summer in Greece, is, after all, a 24-hour party.

Celebrating good times at Feasts and Panigiria 

Over the Greek summer, there are numerous Feast Days and Panigiria (festivals) filled with so many cultural activities that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. If you are lucky enough to be there on a Saints Day fair, you can experience the locals serving you free homemade food and wine and you will also enjoy music and dancing of that region. This is the time where Greeks get a chance to show you how they celebrate life and are more hospitable than ever, as they welcome everyone with open arms and hearts. Summer really does give you the chance to see how much Greeks love family, friends, food and creating unforgettable memories that will remain with you forever.

RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations , Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report

Photo Source: Wikimedia Commons License: CC-BY-SA Copyright: ufoncz