For me, this trip was a surprise offer, extended to me as an alumni who had expressed interest in the trip the previous year. As always, Derek and the rest of the staff members were incredibly kind, caring, and supportive throughout the whole of the trip.
While I didn’t experience the whole three week program, needing to return at the end of the second, and thus miss the Italy leg of the trip, it was still a delightful experience. From exploring the ancient sites of Athens to sailing on a cruise ship(!!!) to swimming in the clear blue Mediterranean waters on a relaxing beach day, it was truely a one-of-a-kind adventure.
What is your advice to future travelers on this program?
Pack light! Even lighter than that!
While this program takes you to so many incredible locations, getting to all of them always involves a Lot of walking. Trips with luggage when we move locations are also a struggle with just a backpack and carry-on size suitcase, let alone anything more.
As someone who adores dressing cute, I understand the urges, but the bare essentials will suit you much better when in your sundress, sandles, jewelry, and new nails you find yourself having to lug your luggage all the way across Athens.
Pros
- Incredible sightseeing with Derek always there with history facts about everything you’re seeing
- Cruise!! Ship!!! You get to go on a Cruise!!
- Wonderful supportive staff whose there for you no matter what!
Cons
- Derek’s jokes :/ He lacks variety sometimes.
- So much walking in so much sun and heat. If you don’t bring good shoes you’re cooked.
- Some mattresses at the places we stay aren’t especially nice on your back :(