This most ancient of countries and the cradle of European democracy, modern Greece has had some rocky events but it’s still worth visiting.

When: 1988 and 2006

Where: 1988 – Corfu Club Med, 2006 – Athens

Who: 1988 was a family holiday with my parents & siblings, 2006 was solo for 3 days (IB conference), then A joined me and so did my parents and sister.

How: Flew in and out on both visits

Weather: Hot, hot, hot and sunny – perfect for me!

Food: yum, yum! fabulous feta, houmous, taramasalata, fish, but I didn’t like the oozo.

Sights:  The parthenon, Athens old town, open-air cinema viewing in an amphitheatre

Surprises:  how calm it felt (maybe because I was coming from crazy China)

Tips: check out cultural events in and around Athens, Ditch the guide book, let you feet take you where they will and stop at a taverna when you feel tired.