This summer, let’s make something different!
Summer holidays are our chance to rest, have more free time, and spend quality time with the people we love! We plan them months in advance and dream of the moment when we will turn off our computers, say goodbye to partners and colleagues, grab our suitcases, and get on the plane, ship, or car to start our carefree and obligation-free journey!
But is that the case this time, this summer?
Climate change is here, and high temperatures are afflicting our body and spirit and not letting us rest. While at this time we should spend most of our time outdoors, we end up indoors again and cool off not by the sea but by the air conditioning.
In addition, popular tourist areas, especially islands, are burdened by overtourism, which has unpleasant consequences for ecosystems. Residents suffer in their own land, natural resources such as water, supplies, and energy are depleted, traffic on the streets resembles that of the capital, and holidays are no longer holidays.
What we do:
We respect the places we visit. We remember that we were guests there and that we sought to come to get to know it!
We communicate with locals at every opportunity to show them our appreciation and listen to their advice and stories! They will also tell us where we can really eat well, which hidden gems we should visit, and which places are less crowded!
We get informed, ask about famous local products, and shop from local shops.
Yes, there are restaurants with traditional food, and the locals will reveal these to us again.
We respect the animals we will meet in our wake, especially the strays. They are also residents of the place!
We pour some water into the pot outside the window at airbnb.
We dress lightly, with light-colored fabrics made of natural materials, and always wear our hats, glasses, and sunscreen.
Sleep, gaze, laze freely!
What we do NOT do:
We do NOT forget our hat, glasses, sunscreen, and definitely water to hydrate!
We do NOT follow paths and routes during the hottest hours of the day without receiving information about their condition and dangerous spots.
We do not go alone, and even more so if we do not have experience of the route. We always inform the hotel or someone close to us about where we are going while keeping our mobile phone on.
We do NOT photograph anyone uncontrollably, especially children!
We do NOT climb rooftops, churches, or monuments to take the perfect photo; apart from disrespect, it is also dangerous.
We do not leave our garbage on the beach.
We do NOT drink as if there is no tomorrow.
We do NOT use every corner as an outdoor toilet!
AND FINALLY REMEMBER:
Greece is not just its islands.
There is also the mainland, which has coastal areas and mountains that can provide you with the coveted coolness, rivers, and lakes to explore.
Discover another world full of cultures, habits, and traditions.
Most importantly, meet people who are also hospitable, caring, and willing to show you their corner of the world!
