Athens and Greek Islands tour

Planet

Carbon Reduction:

Local & Sea-Based Transport: This itinerary is intentionally designed to minimize our carbon footprint. We exclusively use the Greek ferry system for island hopping between Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, and Ios. This method of transport has a significantly lower carbon emission rate per passenger compared to domestic flights, which is a common alternative.

Human-Powered Exploration: Upon arrival at each destination, our orientation walks are done on foot. We actively encourage guests to explore the charming, narrow streets of Mykonos town or the cliffside paths of Fira and Oia by walking, which is not only the best way to experience these places but also the most environmentally friendly. For longer distances during free time, we provide information on local bus services as a preferred alternative to taxis.

Locally Sourced Food: The included breakfasts at our partner hotels prioritize locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. This reduces food miles and supports local agriculture, from Greek yogurt and honey to fresh Feta cheese and olives.

Environment and Wildlife:

Waste Reduction: We have a clear policy to reduce single-use plastics. We encourage all our guests to bring a reusable water bottle, as tap water in Athens and on the islands is safe to drink. Our local guides will point out refill locations.

Water Conservation: We educate our guests on the importance of water conservation, particularly on the islands of the Cyclades, which can face water scarcity, especially during the peak summer season. We partner with hotels that have implemented water-saving measures in their rooms and operations.

Protecting a Fragile Landscape: Our pre-trip information and welcome briefings include guidance on how to be a responsible visitor. This includes advice such as sticking to marked paths to prevent erosion, not purchasing souvenirs made from endangered species, and respecting the unique volcanic landscape of Santorini.

People

Local Economy:

Supporting Local Businesses: We are committed to ensuring that tourism revenue benefits the local community directly. We deliberately select locally-owned hotels, such as the New Haroula Hotel in Santorini and the Far Out Hotel & Spa in Ios. Furthermore, with only breakfast included, our guests have the freedom to dine at a wide range of local tavernas and restaurants for lunch and dinner, spreading their economic contribution throughout the community.

Local Supply Chain: From the local guides who lead our city tours to the ferry companies we use and the hotels we partner with, we prioritize working with Greek-owned and operated businesses. This ensures that the majority of the tour cost remains within the local economy.

Employment, Inclusivity, and Diversity:

Local Employment: We exclusively employ local, licensed guides for all included tours, such as the Acropolis tour in Athens. This not only provides direct employment but also offers our guests a richer, more authentic cultural experience from someone who calls the destination home. We ensure our local partners are committed to paying their staff a fair, living wage.

An Inclusive Welcome: We are dedicated to making travel accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Our tour descriptions and pre-departure information are designed to be clear and comprehensive, allowing all travelers, including those from the LGBTQ+ community and those with mobility considerations, to understand the itinerary and determine if it is right for them. We foster a respectful and welcoming environment within our tour groups.