Academic and Eco Tourism: Summer programs on Greek island of Crete

For those who want to travel but at the same time do something that could have a meaningful impact on ones self or the environment, Crete is a wonderful destination this summer. Below please find an introduction to two truly noteworthy programs.

Unbound Prometheus

Unbound Prometheus is a program organized every summer in Greece in different locations – this year it’s organized in Chania, Crete. Unbound Prometheus is an intellectual retreat for people who have a thirst for knowledge. The program offers advanced seminars on academic subjects, as well as quality accommodation, and visitors will also be able to enjoy the beautiful natural environment of Crete. It’s truly a trip for both the exercise and the relaxation of the mind.

In 2019, Program 1 runs from July 7 to 14, and Program 2 from July 14 to 21. Program 1 offers a master seminar called The Quantum Universe, Reality and Living by professor and author Menas Kafatos. They also offer two academic bundles: one about mathematical modeling in art and science, and one about corporate finance and strategy. Program 2 offers a bundle about the science behind mass media’s influences on people, and one about the computer and the brain. In these seminars, the participants learn from the experts in their field.

The program will provide accommodation close to the Chania Center, and the lectures will take place in that same hotel. The tuition fee for one seminar is $1300, but going for both is quite the deal – $1500. The tuition fee covers accommodations for 7 days as well as breakfast and transportation to the scheduled excursions.

The program is directed towards gifted high school students, to adults who are seeking intellectual stimulation, as well as to junior faculty members wishing to enhance their research agenda and teaching expertise. Some universities in the United States have also awarded credits to their students who have attended the program.

You can find more info about application dates from their website:

http://unboundprometheus.com/

Archelon – The Sea Turtle Protection Society of Greece

Founded in 1983, Archelon aims to protect the sea turtles and their habitats. The society has led a number of activities related to sea turtle conservation through the years, and they contribute extensively to the scientific research of the species.

Archelon has three different volunteering options in Crete, including Rethymnon, Messara, or Chania. All projects vary slightly in their duties and program schedules, giving volunteers the choice to pick a project that works best for them.

The duties can include monitoring of the nesting activity of the loggerhead sea turtle, protection of nests and hatchlings, as well as contributing to public awareness. These projects run from May to September every year.

The society supports conservation in action while also collecting data that is used to find solutions to threats sea turtles are facing. Many threats are related to the high amount of tourism at the nesting beaches as well as the huge amount of plastic litter in the sea and by the shores.

All the data collected by Archelon contributes to the assessment of the state of sea turtles at the local, European, and Mediterranean levels. It is clear that being a volunteer for Archelon is a great way to do good in both practical and scientific terms.

Participation fees start from 350€ depending on the length of the volunteering period, and it includes accommodation. A valid driver’s license is required, and English is the main language used in all of the projects. It is not mandatory to have prior knowledge or experience with sea turtles, but an ability to work together in an international group is essential.

Check their website for more information:

https://www.archelon.gr/index_eng.php

Read more at thenationalherald.com

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