Greek Island Adventure of Gastronomical Indulgence

Join me, Maria Benardis for the ultimate culinary adventure to Greece. We travel back in time and visit places where food and Gastronomy - an Ancient Greek word signifying the relationship between food and the senses, all began. Familiar with the rich azure blue and white images of the Greek Islands? Now, match the food to the imagery, with my exclusive exploration of authentic Greek dishes and local ingredients.

Live life as the Greeks; with freshly caught seafood enjoyed by the crystal blue waters of the Ancient Mediterranean Sea. Investigate and indulge in “true to the source” regional cuisine and wine, only available in Greece.

Experience a journey of luxurious culinary indulgence, traditional Greek culture and Mediterranean lifestyle, as only a local would. The journey will help you reconnect with nature, old traditions, customs and yourself.

Designed for lovers of food and cooking enthusiasts, our adventure will uncover the secrets of Greek cuisine and joys of cooking delicious local food; in fun, relaxed and friendly places. The ultimate way to de-stress.

The expedition will commence in Athens, where we go back in time to experience the ritual of shopping at the agora (the marketplace), uncovering all the essential ingredients of a Greek pantry. A visit to the Parthenon temple built on the mountain of Acropolis for the Greek goddess Athena, and other ancient and fascinating archaeological sites, also await.

Then to Chios, island home of the magical masticha - the clear crystal chewing gum used in Greek cuisine, which only grows in this special place. Indulge in the ritual of ouzo making and traditional spoon sweets; and view the huge variety of products made from masticha – revered in Greece for its healing properties. Investigate local produce and indulge in the freshest cuisine.

Next to mystical Crete (Iraklio and Chania), home to the superior Minoan civilization and organic farming, where we explore foods with mythical and magical powers. Discover why the Cretan cuisine endows its people with longevity and sound health. Explore wineries and a monastery that makes the finest organic wine, olive oil and vinegar. We visit one of the largest organic farms in Greece, where we will cook using these freshest ingredients. Learn how tsikoudia, wine and olive oil are made - the traditional way, and we visit a friend who is the last surviving producer of the most amazing hand-made filo pastry - a soon to be lost art; and delectable baklava.

In Kalamata home of sfela cheese, the “Greek salad”, and so much more; we will see why Kalamata olives and pastelli sweets are the best in the world! And if you’re adventurous, dance the “Kalamatiano” - the local dance, with me. On the way to Kalamata visit the famous Ancient City of Corinth and rest in stunning seaside places such as Koroni in Messenia, renowned for its beautiful fortress, port and food.

Experience all this and so much more on Greekalicious’ unique journey of gastronomical indulgence.

The package aims to incorporate luxury, Greek tradition, and culinary and cultural pleasure you will not find or experience anywhere in Australia. Including some luxury hotels serving only organically grown produce and unique experiences not offered by other tour providers operating in Greece. Complimented by plenty of “free-time” for your maximum relaxation and enjoyment.

I hope you can join me for this amazing experience and look forward to seeing you there!

Twin share = $7,900.00 per person