Name: Greek Islands
Start: 2023-09-01T00:00:00.000Z
End: 2023-09-11T00:00:00.000Z
Location: Athens, Greece

Walker Wellness Retreats

14 reviews

Sep 1 - 11, 2023

Group size: 8 - 14

Greek Islands

Athens, Greece

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Walker Wellness Retreats

14 reviews

$NaN

Sep 1 - 11, 2023

Group size: 8 - 14

Join Walker Wellness Retreats on an all-inclusive adventure the Greek islands! We will be visiting Athens, Mykonos, Santorini and Crete. From the time we pick you up at the airport, everything will be taken care of from start to finish. You will be staying at 5-star hotels. All transportation, meals and activities are included on this luxury Greek island retreat.

Amy Walker, MSW, LCSW, CCM, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Owner of Walker Wellness Retreats. Amy started Walker Wellness Retreats in 2016 due to her love for travel and helping others experience the world. When Amy is not leading international retreats, she works as an online mental health therapist. Amy is passionate about helping individuals and couples work through barriers and find new ways to communicate, connect, and thrive. In addition, Amy loves international travel, wine tasting, whale watching, and the outdoors. Amy works alongside her husband, Brian Walker, to run Walker Wellness Retreats.

To meet more of the Walker Wellness Retreats team, visit the About Us page on our website.

Important Documentation:

Travel insurance details (including emergency contact information)
Passport
Copy of passport (both in physical and digital form)
COVID-19 vaccination records
Trip itinerary (including accommodation and transportation details)

Helpful Tip: Make two copies of your passport, travel insurance papers, and other important travel documents. Diversify your copies by storing them electronically on your computer/smartphone and separating them in your money belt, carry-on bag, and checked luggage. Keep your vaccination records with your passport.

Money:

Debit card (with a four-digit PIN)
Credit card
Petty cash (in euros, ~100)
Cross-body bag or travel purse (to avoid theft when out walking around)

Helpful Tip: You can withdraw euros from ATMs, and it's usually the most convenient way to get local currency. However, it's always a good idea to bring some petty cash just in case of an emergency. Be mindful of the denomination you carry as some shops and vendors may not accept large bills.

Clothing:

Comfortable walking shoes (closed toe preferred)
Slip-on shoes (such as sandals or flip-flops)
Lightweight rain jacket or umbrella
Scarf (for covering shoulders when entering religious sites or dressing up an outfit)
Warm sweater or jacket (depending on the season)
Swimwear (if traveling in the summer or visiting a beach destination)
Hat and sunglasses
Undergarments and socks
Casual clothing (shorts, skirts, dresses, t-shirts, etc.)
Athletic wear (yoga pants, sports bras, etc.)
Laundry bag

Helpful Tip: Pack for the season and be mindful of local customs and dress codes. Plan to do laundry or purchase clothes locally if you run out of outfits.

Toiletries:

Toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss
Shampoo and conditioner (travel-sized)
Body wash or soap (travel-sized)
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Personal medications (in their original containers)
Pain reliever (such as aspirin or ibuprofen)
Anti-diarrhea medicine (such as Imodium or Pepto-Bismol)
Motion sickness medicine (if prone to motion sickness)
Sunblock (SPF 30 or higher)
Insect repellent
First aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, etc.)
Towel (microfiber or quick-dry)
Hand sanitizer
Earplugs

Electronics:

Smartphone and/or camera
Charger and adapter (for European outlets)
Portable charger (if planning to use devices extensively throughout the day)
Headphones
Waterproof phone case
Power strip (if traveling with multiple devices)
VPN software (if needed for internet security and accessing geo-restricted content)

Additional Personal Items:

Refillable water bottle
Day pack or backpack (for carrying essentials during the day)
Beach bag or tote (if visiting a beach destination)
Dry bag (for storing wet clothes or electronics)
Beach blanket (if visiting a beach destination)
Book or e-reader
Journal or notepad

Always keep an eye on your belongings and be mindful of pickpockets and scams. Leave valuable items at home if possible or store them in a secure location such as a hotel safe. And don't forget to leave room in your luggage for souvenirs and gifts!

Money:

Take out Euros from an ATM. Conversion rates are about equal to the dollar.
Be mindful that some ATMs charge a crazy conversion rate like 11-15%. Do not use these ATMs. Avoid taking money out of EuroNet ATMs as they charge a lot of conversion fees.
Use the XE currency conversion app to show you the conversion rate when you buy something.
Don't pay in USD. They probably won't take it, and if they do, you won't get a good conversion.
Always do the local currency, Euro, if a merchant asks if you want to process your card in USD or Euro.
Cash is widely used, especially for small things like drinks. Keep small bills and coins for the bathroom.
If you leave a tip anywhere, just round up. No need to tip out standard 20%.
Make sure you use up all your coins before leaving Europe as you cannot exchange them back.

Financial Safety:

Be aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying large amounts of cash in public.
Split up your cash, cards, and important documents into different places (e.g., some in a wallet, some in a money belt, and some in your luggage).
Keep your wallet or purse close to your body and never leave it unattended.
Use ATMs located in secure, well-lit areas and avoid those with suspicious-looking devices attached to them.
Check your credit card and bank statements regularly for any unauthorized charges or transactions.
Use credit cards for larger purchases as they offer better protection than debit cards.
Use a travel credit card that offers benefits such as no foreign transaction fees and travel insurance.
Notify your bank and credit card company of your travel plans to prevent them from flagging your purchases as suspicious and freezing your account.
Be cautious when using public Wi-Fi to avoid identity theft and fraud. Use a virtual private network (VPN) and avoid accessing sensitive information (e.g., bank accounts) on public Wi-Fi networks.

Personal Safety:

Be aware of surroundings and stay alert.
Avoid carrying valuables or expensive jewelry.
Use a money belt or cross-body purse to keep important items secure.
Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unlit areas.
Keep wallet in a front pocket or money belt.
Use a cross-body purse with a secure zipper or buckle.
Be wary of strangers who approach.
Stay alert in crowded places, such as train stations and tourist attractions.
Register with embassy or consulate in case of emergency.
Always keep emergency contact information with you.
Learn basic phrases in local language, including how to ask for help.

Transportation:

Make sure to validate your ticket before boarding.
Use trusted ride-sharing apps or licensed taxis when taking a taxi.
Official transportation services should be used at airports and train stations.

Questions about refunds or cancellations? Click here to view our payment and cancellation policy.

The deadline to book an international retreat is 30 days before the retreat begins; however, some exceptions can be made based on availability. Email us at contact@walkerwellnessretreats.com to inquire about booking after the deadline has passed.

Accommodations
11 days/10 nights in luxurious accommodations
Airport Transfers
Pick-up and drop-off at Athens airport (ATH)
Ferry Transfers
Ferries between each location
Meals
All meals during the retreat (breakfast, lunch, & dinner)
Transportation
All transportation during the retreat
Gratuity
Gratuities for tour guides, restaurant staff, and drivers
Airfare from Crete
Economy air tickets from Chania to Athens
Athens City Tour
Private Athen's city tour with English-speaking guide
Cooking Class
A private cooking lesson in Mykonos
Cruises
Cruise Mykonos, Balos, and Gramvousa
Crete Excursion
The 7 Villages of Apokoronas tour
Daily Excursions
Excursions with a local guide
Airfare
Airfare to and from Athens, Greece
Additional Items
Souvenirs, drinks, snacks, additional excursions, or other personal items
Additional Gratuity
Gratuities of a personal nature (hotel staff, spa services, etc.)
Alcoholic Beverages
Any alcoholic beverages (unless listed on itinerary)
COVID-19
Any COVID-19 related tests or documentation (if applicable)
Insurance
Travel insurance and medical insurance (required)
Travel Fees
Any travel-related fees (visas, passports, baggage, etc.)

All-Inclusive Double Occupancy

Available until August 2, 2023|Sold Out

Double occupancy includes a private bedroom and private bathroom for 2 people.

Helpful hints: If you have two people who would like to share a room, select 2 Double Occupancy packages. If you are traveling alone but want to be paired with another solo traveler, select 1 Double Occupancy package. If you are traveling alone and want your own room, select 1 Single Occupancy package below.

$4,895

Deposit: $1,224

Join Waitlist

All-Inclusive Single Occupancy

Available until August 2, 2023|Sold Out

Single occupancy includes a private bedroom and private bathroom for 1 person.

Helpful hints: If you are traveling alone but want to share a room with another traveler, select 1 Double Occupancy package above. If you are booking for two people who would like to share a room, select 2 Double Occupancy packages above.

$5,895

Deposit: $1,474

Join Waitlist

Day 1
Day 1
Welcome to Athens!
On arrival at the Athens airport, you will be transferred to your hotel by private transportation. Upon arrival at the hotel, you will be greeted by Amy Walker, Owner of Walker Wellness Retreats. The retreat officially starts at the 7:00 PM group dinner and orientation.

If you arrive early in the day, you may enjoy a walk in the center. Then, stroll into the picturesque alleys of the Plaka area, and enjoy some “Ouzo” along with heavenly taste “mezedes” with the view of the Acropolis rising above the city.

7:00 PM dinner as a group at a local restaurant, followed by a brief orientation.

Overnight stay at the Grand Hyatt Athens.
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Day 2
Day 2
Athens - A Walk through Ancient History
Breakfast at your hotel at your leisure.

The best way to see Athens is a private walking tour. You can feel the vibes, explore every sense, meet the locals, and taste street food!

Start the day by walking to the Acropolis hill, where you’ll enjoy Parthenon, the Erectheion & the surrounding monuments. Then descend to the Acropolis museum to have a view of fascinating exhibitions. Continue by crossing Andrianou Street, the most distinctive street of the Plaka neighborhood, the imposing Roman Agora, the vivid life of Monastiraki Square, and the surrounding streets.

7:00 PM dinner as a group at a local hotel.

Overnight stay at the Grand Hyatt Athens.
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Day 3
Day 3
Mykonos
Breakfast at your leisure.

Today you will be transferred to the port for your cruise to the cosmopolitan island of Mykonos to enjoy the perfect beach and fantastic nightlife! White and Blue mix in this beautiful Cycladic architecture and narrow alleys of Mykonos town.

In the evening, you will learn about the Mykonian culture and Greece through its delicious food, and the best way to do this is by taking the Mykonian spiti hands-on cooking class. You will be picked up with the Mykonian Spiti’s vehicles from the specific location and transferred to Mykonian Spiti, where you will be welcomed with the traditional “loukoumi” accompanied by Teta’s liqueur.

Right after, we will visit the vegetable garden to learn how to cultivate seasonal vegetables used in the kitchen of Mykonian Spiti for food preparation. In the corner of the garden, we will find Myconian traditional food like rusk with local cheese named ”kopanisti,” tomato, olives, ”louza” (traditional Myconian smoked pork), local sausage accompanied with handmade wine, and Cretan raki.

Before serving dinner or lunch, we will start the cooking lessons, which will last for 45 minutes with the responsibility of Teta. First, you will learn to make spinach pie, stuffed tomatoes and peppers, and the famous tzatziki. Then, depending on the number of participants, the guests will take turns helping the hostess prepare the meal. Immediately after, dinner or lunch will be served consisting of all the dishes of the lesson (spinach pie, stuffed tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, seasonal salad, feta cheese, and kopanisti, and the main dish, orzo with beef).

A seasoned fruit and a handmade dessert will be served to end the session, washed down by unlimited drinks like the traditional “Raki,” handcrafted wines, and other fruit juices. Then before you leave, there will be a photo session with guests and staff, guestbook dedications, and a small gift bag per two participants, loaded with traditional flavors and drinks. Once done, your escort will be waiting to transfer you back to the hotel or drop you off at any location you request.

7:00 PM dinner as a group at a local restaurant.

Overnight stay at the Ammos Hotel.
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Day 4
Day 4
Snorkel to unspoiled beaches, Rhenia and the sacred island of Apollo
Breakfast at your leisure.

Make a memorable cruise to the Island of Delos and South beaches. We depart from Mykonos and set sail for the ancient site of Delos Island. You can either stay on board and enjoy swimming in the blue and green waters or disembark for a 2-hour tour on this beautiful "UNESCO world heritage" landmark.

Then, we sail straight to the mesmerizing beaches and crystal clear waters of the South Beaches. Then, join us for a party, dance, and drink by visiting some of the most famous coastlines in Greece, known for their unique beauty and crazy lifestyles, such as Ornos beach, Psarou, Super Paradise, Platys Gyalos, and Elia.

Have fun, enjoy the sun, and drink cocktails on board or the coast.

7:00 PM dinner as a group at a local restaurant.

Overnight stay at the Ammos Hotel.
Read more
Day 5
Day 5
Breathtaking Cliffs
Breakfast at your leisure at the hotel.

Today we'll depart for your cruise to Santorini. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel in Santorini. Free time to explore before dinner.

Relax at this scenic volcanic island with its breathtaking views and white-washed houses draped along the high cliffs of Santorini's breathtaking "Caldera." Walk through the villages of Oia and Fira, and Imerovigli. Sample at local stores a variety of local cheeses and Santorini's famous tomato paste and "Fava."

7:00 PM dinner as a group at a local restaurant.

Overnight stay at the Aressana Spa Hotel or Magma Resort. Both hotels are 5 star. Those needing 2 beds will be at the Aressana, as the Magma Resort only have rooms with 1 bed.
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Day 6
Day 6
The Culinary Hike
Breakfast at the hotel at your leisure.

Enjoy the day exploring the island.

In the evening, join us on our night hike, wine tasting, and exceptional dinner in Santorini!

Hiking trails are nearly empty during the night in Santorini. A fantastic opportunity to catch a break from the over crowded-ness you’ll often face on the island. Be one of the few privileged to hike the world-famous Fira-Oia hike in peace.

You’ll make stops along the way to view villages lit up at night and catch a glimpse of the volcano. When you reach Fira, you’ll dine on delicious authentic Greek food at the iconic Assyrtiko Restaurant.

You will indulge in four types of Santorini volcanic wines, including the famous Vinsanto wine. Learn about the island’s wine culture and history from your expert guide, including how the wine derives its mineral-like taste from the volcanic earth of Santorini. Then, return to your hotel on a comfortable drive from Fira to conclude your tour.

Duration: Hiking time 1h30 – total time 3 hours. Distance: 3,5 Km

7:00 PM dinner as a group at a local restaurant.

Overnight stay at the Aressana Spa Hotel or Magma Resort. Both hotels are 5 star. Those needing 2 beds will be at the Aressana, as the Magma Resort only have rooms with 1 bed.
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Day 7
Day 7
Cretan Beauty
Breakfast at your leisure. Transfer from your hotel to the port for your cruise to the next destination, Greece’s largest island, Crete.

A Culinary paradise with friendly people and excellent sites.

Arrive in Chania and settle at your hotel. Free time to explore before dinner.

7:00 PM dinner as a group at a local restaurant.

Overnight stay at the Cretan Dream Resort & Spa.
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Day 8
Day 8
Gramvousa and Balos Cruise
Breakfast at your leisure.

Today our destination is the port of Kissamos. As soon as we reach the pier, you board the ship to set out on the cruise. The boat departs from the dock at 10:20. An hour later, you'll reach the small island of Gramvousa. The ship stays on the island for two and a half hours. The castle of Gramvousa is to be found at the top of the island, built by Venetians on top of some steep cliffs to act as a fortification protecting the island. Today it offers visitors a panoramic view of the amazingly blue waters of the Cretan sea. If you wish, you can climb up the path to the castle, if not, you can stay on the beach and swim.

The ship departs from Gramvousa island at 13:30, the breathtaking lagoon of Balos being its destination. The journey is short and lasts only about 20 minutes. The boat reaches Balos at 13:50 and stays there for three hours. Words can't possibly do justice to the wild beauty your eyes will meet once you reach Balos. The white and, in some places, pink sand, the turquoise warm and shallow waters, the rocks reaching for the sky around the lagoon, all these fantastic elements come together to create a sacred landscape you are bound to want to keep return to!

The ship departs for Kisamos Port at 16:30. Onboard and throughout the journey, we will enjoy a meal and drinks! You will reach Kissamos port an hour later; our bus will be waiting for us to take us back to the hotel.

Overnight stay at the Cretan Dream Resort & Spa.
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Day 9
Day 9
The 7 Villages Tour
Breakfast at your leisure.

Today we explore the unique area of Apokoronas, the eastern province of the Chania region. It aims to introduce the visitors of this island to the pure side of the Cretan mainland. Tour around the villages, meet the locals, taste the delicious local products and learn everything about Crete’s history, culture and traditions.

Following a route through nature and traditional Cretan villages, you will arrive in Gavalochori village and visit the folklore museum of Apokoronas. The seven rooms will reveal everything about history, handicrafts, and people’s everyday lives in the previous centuries.

Leaving Gavalochori, driving towards Vrises village, you will stop by a traditional distillery. You will discover the secrets of the local spirit “Tsikoudia” or “Raki” and learn everything about its production. First, you will tour around the traditional part of the distillery and then the modern one’s facilities. Tasting is following combined with delicious local products.

The village of Emprosneros follows the theatre “Mikis Theodorakis and the hidden church of St. Antony, built on the rock. The experience of the Cretan cheese-making process follows. You visit a cheese factory and taste the local “Graviera”, “Mizithra” or “Anthotiros” cheese varieties. You will also taste some olive oil on warm bread, cookies and Cretan biscuits in the local bakery.

After that, you will enjoy lunch in a traditional “kafeneio” in Fres village, speak with the locals, and learn many things about the countryside way of life. You will have the chance to see pure beauty and feel the real Crete around you. Apokoronas is one of the most historical places in Crete because of its people.

7:00 PM dinner as a group at a local restaurant.

Overnight stay at the Cretan Dream Resort & Spa.
Read more

Day 1

Welcome to Athens!

On arrival at the Athens airport, you will be transferred to your hotel by private transportation. Upon arrival at the hotel, you will be greeted by Amy Walker, Owner of Walker Wellness Retreats. The retreat officially starts at the 7:00 PM group dinner and orientation.

If you arrive early in the day, you may enjoy a walk in the center. Then, stroll into the picturesque alleys of the Plaka area, and enjoy some “Ouzo” along with heavenly taste “mezedes” with the view of the Acropolis rising above the city.

7:00 PM dinner as a group at a local restaurant, followed by a brief orientation.

Overnight stay at the Grand Hyatt Athens.

Walker Wellness Retreats

14 reviews

Welcome to Walker Wellness Retreats! Thank you for taking the time to learn about us! We created Walker Wellness Retreats to share the positive impact travel can have with as many people as possible. Travel makes the world seem not so large. It opens your mind to new ways of thinking. Together we can use our diverse skills and experience of traveling the world to design and plan incredible adventures to bring like-minded travelers together to unique places around the globe!

This trip by far was the best self-care trip. They transported us, fed us fab food and led us on hikes at beautiful Zion Nat’l Park and Bryce Canyon. I probably wouldn’t have ever thought to conquer these hikes on my own and then add in morning and eve yoga adapted for the days activities. I can’t forget the beautiful homes with fab views and the hot tub soaks under the stars. To top it off, I enjoyed it with 11 fab ladies from all over the country who I can now call friends. Add in Drew, Allison And Amy (who I can also call as new found friends) who made sure our week was perfection. I look forward to joining Walker Wellness for future travel.

By Kelly Gordon for Zion National Park Hiking & Yoga Wellness Retreat on Apr 15, 2023

What an amazing experience! Wonderful people who are now new friends, delicious food, and lovely accommodations. I was so impressed with how thoughtful our team was (Drew, Allison, and Amber) to ensure everyone's comfort and enjoyment. The hikes were stunningly beautiful, the yoga was divine, and the food was creative and deliciously nourishing. I will definitely book another trip!

By Deborah Enicke for Zion National Park Hiking & Yoga Wellness Retreat on Apr 03, 2023

This was one of the best things I ever could have signed up for! Daily yoga and hiking is the best combination. Amber, is an amazing chef and every time you walk into the retreat home it smells of something delicious! Drew, is full of Utah knowledge and is so efficient. He was great leading the group on hikes and making sure everyone's needs are met. Allison, is one of the best yoga instructors I've ever had. (I've been practicing yoga for 8 years) she caters class to what folks need and create a really comfortable environment. Allison, Drew, and Amber make a great team and really make sure people are enjoying themselves and all three go above and beyond! I will definitely be signing up for another retreat someday!!

By Anna Brown for Zion National Park Hiking & Yoga Wellness Retreat on Mar 29, 2023

First time traveling alone. Met the most amazing group of people. Drew was an excellent guide, Allison was a great yoga instructor and the food was absolutely amazing and delicious. They really made my stay perfect. The weather was unseasonably cold but the snow topped mountains were absolutely gorgeous.