GlobetrottingSchoolers

Welcome to Celeni Residence!! During our 5-night trip to Chania, we stayed in this villa that is located in a quiet neighbourhood in Galatas. It's only 10mins driving distance from Chania center. It's close to the nice bars and cubs in Platanias. It's also about 10mins walking distance to the nearest beach. Tony and his wife Eleni are the perfect hosts. So nice and hospitable. This villa is the ideal base to explore the beautiful beaches of west Crete like Elafonisi, Balos and Falasarna as well as the night life in Chania center. We really wanted to stay longer in this house but we already scheduled a trip to Santorini. Check out their website: https://www.celeniresidence.gr/ Follow us on our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-TF1J18w4xVhdUrd-604KQ

GLAROS BEACH Situated very close to the city of Chania, Glaros Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the area. It is located 5 kilometers west of Chania and is the coastal front of the village Kato Daratsos in the province of Kidonia and in the area of Makris Tihos. The beach is bounded to the west by Kalamaki and to the east by the beaches of Agioi Apostoli (Holy Apostles). Glaros beach has fine golden sand with small pebbles. Due to its shallow waters, the beach is suitable for families with small children. **************** TRIOPETRA BEACH The beach of Triopetra (meaning "Three stones", after the three rocks in the sea) is a long and wide sandy beach in the south of Crete Island. The main part of the beach has few beach umbrellas. At the edges of the main beach, there is room for naturists. There is also a beautiful sandy beach on the other side of the hill which is mainly naturist beach. The sandy beaches of Triopetra is favoured by quite a few people because they are long and of good quality. There are colorful pebbles and the water is very clear. The beaches are so large there is plenty of room for privacy. It is a nice place to totally unwind. *************** ELAFONISSI BEACH Elafonissi makes the second largest beach in the west of Crete and is often described as "the most beautiful beach of Crete" which looks like a "tropical beach". It is great for families with small kids because the waters are calm, shallow, and crystal clear. It can get really crowded though during the peak season and peak hours as buses of tourists come and go. ***************** So, if we are to rank these 3 beaches.... The kids liked Elafonissi Beach the most because the fine sand was great for their sand castles. And the shallow waters was "safer". The adults, on the other hand, preferred Triopetra Beach because it's different from most of the beaches we've been to. It was fun collecting colorful pebbles. It was also way less crowded. Either come very early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowd. Follow us on our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-TF1J18w4xVhdUrd-604KQ

Balos beach on the northwestern part of Crete is probably one of the best looking beaches in the Mediterranean Sea. There's a lagoon with long white beaches and clear turquoise water. The most convenient way to reach it is by anorganized boat trip. We bought our tickets online. We were then picked up by the shuttle and brought to the port in Kissamos. It was a whole day tour that included a visit to Imeri Grimvousa island. Imeri Gramvousa hosts the remains of a Venetian fort and the remains of buildings left behind by Cretan insurgents who were compelled to live as pirates during the Greek War of Independence. The island was name "Gramvousa" in honour of Vousa, the wife of a pirate chief and the only inhabitant of the island to evade capture when the pirates were forcibly removed. The fort at Imeri Gramvousa was built between 1579 and 1584 during Venetian rule over Crete to defend the island from the Ottoman Turks. Follow us on our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-TF1J18w4xVhdUrd-604KQ

We booked online and just claimed the actual paper tickets at the Minoan Lines ticket booths at the port in Piraeus (Athens). We took the Mykonos Palace and the travel time was less than 7hrs. Departure: 4pm Arrival: 10:30pm Overall, it was a very pleasant trip. We fell asleep as soon as we got settled in our cabin. I was told that no videotaping is allowed inside. So I just tried to snap a few picsas quickly (and as discretely) as possible. Follow us on our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-TF1J18w4xVhdUrd-604KQ

The harbourfront is where the "hustle and bustle" of tourist life happens in Aegena. Yachts, restaurants, horse-drawn carriages, souvenir shops, food stalls, and everything else can be found here. Aegina gets certainly busy in the summer especially on weekends where even the locals in Athens would flock to for a quick getaway. We were lucky to even get a room for 1 night. Follow us on our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-TF1J18w4xVhdUrd-604KQ

Pistachios The ideal climate of the island and the unique soil composition lend exceptional flavour and aroma to the Aegina pistachio. This has distinquished it from other pistachios and earning well-deserved recognition as the finest pistachio in the world. ****** Dinner at Tsias Taverna Dessert at Gelato Follia Follow us on our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-TF1J18w4xVhdUrd-604KQ

Taking the Flying Dolphin fastboat to Aegina from Piraeus port. Flying Dolphin is from the Blue Star Ferries company. We booked our tickets via www.ferryhopper.com The trip to Aegina from Piraeus via the Flying Dolphin fast boat is just about 40 minutes. 35 Euro for 2 adults + 1 child one-way tickets. Follow us on our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-TF1J18w4xVhdUrd-604KQ

Athens has numerous museums and most of them have amazing collections known worlwide. However, we found this little Museum of Ancient Greek Technology to be the most engaging for us. If we had known that it would be this interesting, we would have come first thing in the morning and spend a few hours inside. Follow us on our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-TF1J18w4xVhdUrd-604KQ

Split Airport, also known as Resnik Airport, is the international airport serving the city of Split, Croatia. It is located 19 km from Split, on the west side of Kaštela Bay, in the town of Kaštela (specifically in Kaštel Štafilić), and extending into the adjacent town of Trogir. Follow us on our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-TF1J18w4xVhdUrd-604KQ

The cable car in Dubrovnik started operating in 1969. It became a major tourist attraction in town. The cable car operated successfully until the early 1990’s when it was destroyed in the Croatian War of Independence. Fifteen years after the war ended, the cable car re-opened in 2010. The journey to the top takes 3-4 minutes to reach the summit station on Mount Srđ. At the top, you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Old Town Dubrovnik, the crystal clear Adriatic Sea, Lokrum Island, and the surrounding Elaphiti islands. Follow us on our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-TF1J18w4xVhdUrd-604KQ

Dubrovnik is one of Croatia's most popular cities. Jutting out into the Adriatic Sea with a backdrop of rugged limestone mountains, this city has been listed on UNESCO's World Heritage List for its incredible Old Town - one of the finest and most perfectly preserved medieval cities in the world. Follow us on our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-TF1J18w4xVhdUrd-604KQ

Referred to as "mini Dubrovnik", the city of Korkula appears as a typical Dalmatian medieval village, with red defense towers and variegated houses with colorful roofs. When all the "daytime tourists" are gone, the Old Town becomes pleasantly quiet and relaxing at night. You can walk around and feel like you're indeed in the medieval times. ***************************** MUSIC: Laid Back Guitars by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/...​ Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-...​ Artist: http://incompetech.com/ Follow us on our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-TF1J18w4xVhdUrd-604KQ

The city of Korčula lies beside the sea on the NE of the island. The old medieval part of the city was built on a small oval peninsula, a Baroque suburb spreads under the old city walls. It was love at first sight for us as soon as we saw those stairs leading to the Old Town. Clearly one of our fave old towns in Crotia. The locals will tell you that Marco Polo was born here. They're quite proud of it. They even have the Marco Polo museum. I'm not going to argue with that. I just love this charming cozy old town. We didn't venture much outside of the old town. We spent half of our time in our room which is inside an old castle - a treat by itself. In the mornings, you can take a leisurely stroll along the scenic promenade and have the "viagra breakfast" on the menu while taking in the stunning view and staring at the enticing ripples of the very clear turquoise waters. Follow us on our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-TF1J18w4xVhdUrd-604KQ

Both ferry rides were fast, smooth, and comfortable. The staff were always nice and helpful. They made sure that the kids went up and down the ramp safely. They also helped us with our luggages. Traveling interisland in Croatia is not a problem at all. The fast ferries are reliable and have multiple trips available. Follow us on our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-TF1J18w4xVhdUrd-604KQ

Stari Grad (literally means Old Town) is the oldest town in Croatia and the historic heart of the island of Hvar. In 385 BC, Greeks from the island of Paros in the Aegean sea have settled here and named the entire Hvar Island as Pharos or Faros. For centuries, Stari Grad was a safe harbour to sailors because of its position in the middle of the island. The most interesting reminders of the ancient Greeks is the Stari Grad plain, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008. On this plain, an Ancient Greek system of field division has been so well-preserved. It's even visible by satellite. You could say that Stari Grad is the antithesis of Hvar Town. It's the sedate and modest cousin to the party-centric and glitzy Hvar Town. Similar to all of Croatia's historical coastal and islands towns with their ubiquitous rivas, Stari Grad's palm-lined waterfront is dotted with centuries old Venetian Rennaisance buildings, al fresco bars and restaurant, colourful souvenir stalls, ice cream stands, fishing boats, and yachts. Follow us on our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-TF1J18w4xVhdUrd-604KQ

Perched on top of a 100m high hill, this medieval castle occupies the site of an ancient Illyrian settlement dating from before 500 BC. It later became the site of a Byzantine citadel probably around the 6th century AD. The Venetians began construction of the current fortress in 1278 for protection against the pirates rampaging through the Adriatic. However, it was the town that financed the construction from the proceeds of selling salt. At one point in the 14th century, Spanish engineers participated in the project which is how the fort acquired its nickname, Spanjola. The fortress was strengthened in 1551. When Turks attacked the town in 1571, the entire population took shelter within the fort as the town was plundered and set on fire. In the 19th century, the Austrians took over and the fortress was remodeled with larger barracks and raised battlements. It takes about 20 minutes to walk from the town up to the fort. Take the stairs next to Cafe Loco and climb to a road before taking more stairs. The path is well-signposted. Admission is 30Kn. If you have your own vehicle, you can drive up to the very top and park close to the entrance. You may also take a taxi for 100KN like what we need. Follow us on our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-TF1J18w4xVhdUrd-604KQ

Hvar Island is the most visited of all southern Dalmatian islands. Nestled in a picturesque cove on its western side lies the historic and stunning Hvar Town. As the island’s hub and busiest destination, it is estimated to draw around 20,000 people a day in the high season. The core of the old town is the majestic St Stephen Square - a superb Renaissance square that sprawls over 4500 sq meters. It's the largest square in Dalmatia and is surrounded by elegant old buildings with their impressive (and still intact) architecture. Other sites to check out: 1) The 16th-century St Stephen cathedral erected on the foundations of a gothic sanctuary and elegantly marries Renaissance and baroque styles. 2) Bishop's Palace which is a museum displaying church treasures 3) Hanibal Lucic Summer Residence which is a restored Dalmatian Renaissance summer villa of one of Croatia's greatest poets. 4) Benedictine Monastery where the benedictines of Hvar became experts in creating fabric from agave leaves. 5) The 15th-century Franciscan monastery and its high bell tower. 6) The Arsenal and its 1612 Renaissance theater which is the first public theater in Europe. 7) The 16th-century Fortica (Spanjola) looming over Hvar town built by the Venetians. Follow us on our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-TF1J18w4xVhdUrd-604KQ

One of the tourist spots in the Old Town is the imposing Kamerlengo fortress. It got its name from the city treasurer and got its recognisable image during Venetian rule. The walls are located in the south-western part and it was built from 1420 to 1437. Its main purpose was to accommodate the Venetian army fleet. Nowadays it is a unique location for the different events and concerts. Because of its lovely old town area, Trogir was and still is used as a film set for different movies and shows. Orson Welles filmed in 1969 “The Merchant of Venice”. More recently, Trogir was a filming set for HBO shows – the extremely famous Game of Thrones, for example. The size of the tourist crowd was bearable during day time although it was more enjoyable at night when the crowd has thinned down. Trogir has long been a celebrity destination. Many people know that George Bernard Shaw, Wallis Simpson, Edward VIII and Prince Charles visited Trogir and loved it. In more recent history, Trogir is an annual destination for Bernie Ecclestone and royals like Caroline of Monaco. Follow us on our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-TF1J18w4xVhdUrd-604KQ

Trogir is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of our fave old towns in Croatia. Some call it as the "Little Venice of Dalmatia" or "The Stone Beauty". This well-preserved medieval town is built on layers of the Hellenistic and Roman city. It has numerous Romanesque churches and lovely Renaissance and Baroque buildings from the Venetian period. Also, there are so many other things to explore in Trogir, such as the surrounding vineyards, which are home to the original Zinfandel. The moment we entered the gate to the old town, we were instantly charmed. There's a certain quiantness to it that draws you as you walk around aimlessly on its narrow and maze-like alleys. The 2N/3D we spent here was so relaxing. Good food, great atmosphere, nice promenade, etc. Also, I think we had too much gelato (It was the best gelato shop ever! ) We just love this place. I'd say one of our favorite Old Towns. Must visit this place when you're in Croatia. Follow us on our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-TF1J18w4xVhdUrd-604KQ

Split is the 2nd largest city in Croatia and one of the largest passenger harbours on the Mediterranean. The historical (and, in those times, economic) significance of this city is undeniable. On the outset, you can clearly see that this place held considerable wealth and power specially during the Roman times when Emperor Diocletian built his palace here intended for his retirement. Understandably because he was born in the nearby town of Solin. Anyway, this place was also a filming location for Game of Thrones. Since we are fans, the Game of Thrones tour was very interesting. We managed to snap a few pics of the "basement" where the dragons were kept. And the alley where the Sons of the Harpy ambushed the Unsullied. We went on a GoT walking tour at night thinking it would be less crowded. Well, it was better at night in terms of the crowd, but the pics are undoubtedly better on daytime. The old town can get really crowded. Even during the off seasons. Even in late September, the place was still overcrowded with tourists. The huge promenade along the harbor offers somewhat of a break from the hustle and bustle inside the palace grounds. However, it is overshadowed by the communist-era inspired architecture which our tour guide pointed out in dismay. Follow us on our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-TF1J18w4xVhdUrd-604KQ

The sunset tour was one of the highlights of our 3-night stay in Split. To get away from the crowd, far from the hustle & bustle of this huge Dalmatian Old Town area..... To just unwind, stare at the changing hue of the stunning sunset, sip your wine, listen to your Spotify playlist, feel the breeze on your face.... To be rocked gently by the waves as your boat maneuvers its way.... That was heaven. As to the semi-submarine tour, I suggest you do it somewhere else with better waters. Just too murky in Split area to see anything underwater. For both tours, there's no need to book ahead. Just go to the riva or the seafront promenade and check out the booths lined up on the sides. There are numerous sunset cruises being offered. With different perks. Mostly the same itinerary or route. Follow us on our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-TF1J18w4xVhdUrd-604KQ

Standing 277 meters above sea level, Lycabettus Hill (sometimes spelled Lykavitos) is the highest point of Athens. A funicular or cliff railway can take you to the top of the hill. It is on the corner of Aristippou and Ploutarchou streets. The view from Lycabettus Hill is best enjoyed at sunset whilst waiting for the lights of the Acropolis, Temple of Olympian Zeus, Panathenaic Stadium and Ancient Agora to come on. At the top of the hill you will find the Greek whitewashed church of Agios Georgios (St. George) and all are welcome to enter. The origin of the name of the hill is unclear. According to legend Lykavittos was inhabited by wolves, and its name might mean 'Mountain of Wolves'. Follow us on our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-TF1J18w4xVhdUrd-604KQ

Changing of the Guard ceremonies take place at the Presidential Mansion and at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which is off Syntagma Square below the Hellenic Parliament. EVZONES The Evzones or Evzonoi, is the name of several historical elite light infantry and mountain units of the Greek Army. Today, it refers to the members of the Presidential Guard, a ceremonial unit that guards the Greek Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Presidential Mansion in Athens. The uniforms of the elite Evzone Guards are steeped in history, tradition, and symbolism. For example, the “pom-poms” date all the way back to the ancient Mycenaeans. And the skirts of the guards have 400 pleats – one for each year of the Ottoman Empire’s occupation. SYNTAGMA SQUARE The Square was designed and constructed in the early 19th century, shortly after King Otto moved the capital of the newly-born Greek Kingdom from Nafplio to Athens in 1834. About a month after the installation of King Otto and his wife Amalia in late July 1843,[4] a popular and military uprising took place in the Greek Capital on September 3, 1843. Soldiers under Dimitrios Kallergis gathered in front of the Palace and demanded the granting of constitution. King Otto was then obliged to grant the first Constitution of Greece.[2] In memory of the event, the Palace square was renamed to Constitution Square or Syntagma Square in Greek. Follow us on our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-TF1J18w4xVhdUrd-604KQ

We visited this small but modern museum then strolled around "Plato's neighborhood" where you can find the academy's archaeological ruins/site, his bust, and park. If you are into studying Plato, this is a great place to have a crash course about his philosophy and other works. You will find this museum fascinating. Unfortunately, nothing much is left with "Plato's neighborhood" to be amazed at. But just try to envision that this great philosopher (with other philosophers and students) once roamed on these streets. Follow us on our YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-TF1J18w4xVhdUrd-604KQ

Its cave-like structure and its close proximity to the Athenian Agora must have led to the popular tradition that the building was the "Prison of Socrates". Some researchers have claimed that the real prison was in the Ancient Agora. Whatever the case, our visit to this site sparked some interest in the girls to know more about Socrates. Follow us on our Youtube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-TF1J18w4xVhdUrd-604KQ