Vacances Travel offers an insider’s experience beyond the typical sights, with an educational orientation and emphasis on detail and service.
With over 35 years of experience in planning trips in Greece, we have accommodated the needs of educational organizations such as Harvard and Grinnel. Prep-schools such as Choate Rosemary Hall, Hopkins School, NewMan School and non-profit organizations such as The National Geographic and The Smithsonian. In addition we accommodate special religious tours for organizations such as Biblical Archaeological Society and Biblical Resources.
We have also cooperated and organized excursions for Academic Travel Abroad, Yale, Cohagan, CEO and The New York Times.
Crete is almost a country in itself. Lying between Europe, Africa and the Near East, it is the crossroad between east and west. It is the land of the legends of Minos, the Minotaur, Ariadne and the labyrinth.
The most visited ancient sites in Greece include Corinth, Mycenae, Olympia, Delphi and Athens with the Acropolis and its Archaeological Museum which you can visit to have an overview of the entire ancient history of Greece.
The lands of northern Greece, have always had a special history and identity and exert a fascination for their differences. Their geographical position has made them a meeting place of cultures.
Colleagues and friends alike have made the following comments over the years regarding the Services that we provide
Eleni Zachariou is the best educator in my 81 years. You are a wonderful leader and a great teacher.
Jim Klein, a Smithsonian Institute participant
It is not hard to fall in love with Greece. With Vacances services, you never want to leave! Through their refined skills and great network of contacts, they design superb itineraries, rich in content and special elements. You leave Greece with insights and knowledge far beyond your expectations.
Dan Guy, a National Geographic Expeditions participant
I have lectured for tours of Greece and Italy conducted by the Vacances agency for Grinnell College Alumni, the Smithsonian Institution and the National Geographic Society. Eleni and Themis Zachariou, the proprietors of Vacances, do a superb job. More than that, all the participants I hear from are exceedingly pleased with their tours.
Dr. Gerry Lalonde, Professon of Classics at Grinnell College
Eleni’s knowledge, warmth, passion and enthusiasm has inspired Smithsonian travelers over the past two decades. She is an extraordinary study leader who creates unforgettable tours for our members.
Amy Kotkin, Director of Smithsonian Institute
"Vacances Tours" is la creme de la creme of professional receptive tour operators in Greece. The attention to detail, the commitment to exceeding clients' expectations, and the superb implementation result in the very best of travel experiences. There is no better way to experience and learn about this beautiful country.
Kate Simpson, Vice President of Academic Travel Abroad