I recently went on a tour of Portugal (Lisbon, Cascais and Sintra) with Melissa that she organized and it was amazing!!! The communication leading up to the trip and during was clear and concise. My time was being pulled in various directions before the trip and never once did I have to worry about a thing. During the trip the tours, restaurants, activities and recommendations were thoroughly thought out with care and thought about each of us on the tour. I will be looking forward to new trips and will join again in a heartbeat.

A Transformative Journey Through Greece: Embracing New Experiences and Lifelong Friendships Travel has always been a pathway to self-discovery and personal growth, and my recent adventure to Greece exemplified this truth. On October 1, 2024, I embarked on a journey that would take me deeper into both the waters of the Adriatic Sea and the rich cultural tapestry of Greece. This trip, inspired by following the blog of A Solo Woman Traveling - Melissa Leigh, was not only a tribute to my late husband, who passed away unexpectedly at the age of 63, but also a leap towards reclaiming my independence and zest for life. Exploring Athens and the Greek Isles Our adventure began in the historic city of Athens, where I joined a group of women travelers for a 10-day tour led by Melissa Leigh. Accompanied by a friend and her daughter, I was initially apprehensive about traveling without knowing the others. However, the shared excitement of exploration quickly dissolved any nervousness. Athens, with its blend of ancient history and vibrant modernity, served as the perfect introduction to Greece. For two days, we immersed ourselves in the city's rich heritage and bustling life, soaking in sights that have stood the test of time. Our journey continued to Naxos, which became our home base for exploring the surrounding islands. From Naxos, we embarked on day trips to Delos, Paros, and Mykonos, each offering its unique charm and allure. The highlight of our stay in Naxos was undoubtedly the opportunity to swim in the Adriatic Sea. The crystal-clear waters and serene beauty provided an unparalleled sense of freedom and tranquility. A Taste of Greek Hospitality and Culinary Delights The Greek culture is renowned for its warmth and hospitality, and our accommodations throughout the trip were nothing short of exceptional. The pinnacle of our stay was at a small hotel on the Athens Riviera aptly named Somewhere. This exquisite location provided an idyllic setting for our farewell, leaving us with lasting memories and a sense of camaraderie. A self-proclaimed foodie, I was thrilled by the diverse culinary experiences that Greece offered. From traditional tavernas to contemporary dining, each meal was a celebration of flavors. Melissa ensured that our itinerary included ample free time, allowing us the flexibility to explore local life at our own pace. This balance between structured activities and personal freedom made the trip both enriching and relaxing. Forging New Bonds and Gaining Confidence One of the most rewarding aspects of this journey was the bond formed with my fellow travelers. The shared experiences, laughter, and occasional challenges forged friendships that I now cherish deeply. We became more than just travel companions; we became a family – my "forever Greece sisters." This trip was a personal milestone, marking my first major travel experience since my husband's passing. It rekindled my confidence and passion for exploration, proving that it is possible to embrace new experiences regardless of life's unexpected turns. Inspired by the journey, I am determined to travel with Melissa at least once a year, as long as my legs will carry me. Conclusion In summary, my Greek adventure was a transformative experience. It was a journey marked by discovery, friendship, and renewal. Greece, with its stunning landscapes and rich culture, provided the perfect backdrop for my personal journey of healing and growth. As I look forward to future travels, I carry with me the memories of this trip and the newfound confidence to explore the world, either solo or with yet-to-be-met friends.

We had an amazing, seamless trip. Everything was more than we ever expected. All the tours, hotels, and restaurants were top notch. Will definitely book another trip with Melissa in the future.

joined the trip to Athens, Naxos, Paros and Mykonos. I was an amazing trip and experience. Melissa is the most patient person and best travel guide I could ever imagine. She had everything planned out for transportation, lodging, activities and places to go for meals. This was my first trip out of the country and Melissa made me so comfortable knowing that she had thoroughly planned and researched everything down to all the smallest details. She left us with free time but also planned activities that made me feel like I got to experience a lot of what Greece has to offer. I would love to join another trip lead by Melissa. I appreciate her so much and think she is great at what she does.

I had the pleasure of being on Melissa's Portugal trip September 2024. It was OUTSTANDING. The value for the money beyond exceeded my expectations. First of all, Melissa takes all the stress, planning, booking and things you don't think of out of your mind. Second, everything she selected and booked was beyond perfect. There is an excellent balance of tours and free time. The tours Melissa hand picks are not mainstream and "touristy", they are a blend of seeing all the right things and the hidden treasures. She is so well connected and focused in on creating a community with the local people that she has developed a unique, boutique style of travel. I can't say enough about my experience. I wish I could give more than five stars. The amount of work that she puts in and takes away from you is mind blowing. WELL, WELL worth the money. I can't wait for my next tour!!!