Graciously Roaming in Real Time: My 12-Day Mediterranean Escape Through Greece and Turkey

Twelve days, two countries, and one grateful heart.

There’s something magical about writing while the memories are still fresh. Before the souvenirs settle into shelves and the tan lines fade. I just returned from twelve unforgettable days of roaming through Greece and Turkey, and rather than jumping straight into tips and itineraries, I wanted to take a moment to share the heart of the journey: the sights, the feelings, and the unexpected moments that left a lasting imprint.

I’m back, somewhere between jet lag and reflection, still mentally unpacking it all. This trip was more than a vacation. It felt like a soft reset for my spirit. Greece and Turkey delivered a perfect blend of beauty, depth, laughter, and just enough chaos to keep things interesting (yes, I’ll get to the hot tub story). It reminded me how powerful it is to step away, slow down, and simply be.

This isn’t a travel guide. It’s a reflection. A chance to relive the joy, awe, and even the mishaps that somehow make the best stories later. Whether you’re a fellow teacher needing a summer reset or a dreamer planning your next escape, I hope this glimpse into my travels inspires you to roam a little more graciously, too.

The Journey Begins

Our travel crew, reunited from across the country.

The trip began with a flight into Athens, Greece. As the city came into view, I took in the familiar sights of European infrastructure: organized, functional, and modern in the ways I’ve come to expect. But alongside that familiarity came something else that’s also become familiar in my European travels: a subtle but undeniable sense of distance from the people.

Despite the popular narrative of warm, hospitable locals, my experience, like many others I’ve had in Europe, was different. The interactions felt cool, sometimes guarded. There were moments when I couldn’t tell if it was because we were American or because we were Black, or maybe both. Whatever the cause, it’s a feeling I’ve come to recognize. It doesn’t ruin the trip, but it does sit with you. It reminds you that even when you're far from home, the realities you carry aren’t always left behind at the gate.

Still, Athens had a quiet charm. One thing that stood out was the number of stray dogs and cats roaming the streets. What might feel like neglect in another place somehow felt like quiet community here. Locals left food and water out, as if caring for these animals was just part of daily life. That simple compassion spoke volumes in a way that transcended language or culture.

I was traveling with a group I know and love; mostly fellow educators I’ve worked with in Chicago, along with their friends and family. We’ve traveled together often over the years, and every trip feels like a reunion. We live in different cities now—Chicago, Atlanta, Memphis, Philly, but we still show up for each other with a carry-on and a shared sense of adventure. There’s something sacred about that kind of connection, especially when you’re exploring places that make you feel a little “other.”

Greek Island Days (and Turkish Surprises)

We started from the port of Piraeus in Athens and began our journey at sea. Each stop brought its own vibe. Some destinations were slow and steady, while others buzzed with life.

Volos, Greece greeted us with a calm energy. It wasn’t flashy, but it was rich in charm and surrounded by dramatic mountain views. It felt like a place where you could just breathe.

Izmir and Ephesus, Turkey took us back in time. Ephesus was powerful. Walking through ancient ruins and the house of the Virgin Mary surrounded by silence gave me chills. These were not just stones. They were stories. And I could feel them.

Istanbul was a beautiful kind of chaos. The city felt alive at every corner. Between the sound of the call to prayer and the rhythm of the street vendors, it gave us a glimpse into a culture that was vibrant, complex, and deeply layered. And let me just say, the shopping was everything. From stunning gold jewelry at unbelievable prices to fashion-forward boutiques that had me wishing I brought an empty suitcase, Istanbul was a shopper’s dream.

I picked up gold necklaces with evil eye charms for each of my grandkids, a sleek new watch for my husband, and treated myself to a classic Cartier-style bracelet. And of course, I couldn't leave without a few linen pieces. Linen is my weakness when I travel, especially in Europe and the Middle East. Every time I’m in places like this—or in Dubai—I find beautifully made linen pieces that just won’t let me leave without them. I still have a linen blazer I bought years ago in Abu Dhabi, and it's one of my all-time favorites. This trip gave me a few new additions that I know will become staples, both for the memories they carry and the effortless style they bring.

Then came Mykonos with its signature white buildings and picture-perfect views. It was fun and beautiful, but also where I experienced my not-so-glamorous hot tub moment. Long story short, I stepped into the spa for relaxation and came out with my hair color completely changed. What started as self-care turned into a full-blown hair emergency. Thankfully, guest services and my travel crew helped me handle it. Lesson learned.

Santorini was breathtaking. But also crowded. I had to work a little harder to feel the peace people always talk about. Still, the sunsets were magical. The kind that remind you how lucky you are just to witness them.

Rhodes and Crete brought a gentle close to the trip. Rhodes surprised me with its shopping scene. There were so many beautiful boutiques and local finds that felt both stylish and special. Between strolling the cobbled streets and adding new pieces to my wardrobe, I was in my element. In Heraklion, I felt something shift. Maybe it was the breeze or the silence or the gratitude. Whatever it was, it settled in my chest and stayed

there.

A Travel Lesson I Didn't See Coming

Permission to rest. Fully granted.

The biggest lesson from this trip had nothing to do with what I saw. It was about how I moved.

I gave myself permission to rest. To skip the group tour. To linger in my room. To say, “I’ll catch y’all later.” It felt like freedom. For so long, travel has meant go, go, go. But this time, I leaned into stillness when I needed it. That choice gave me more than any excursion could have.

One Week, Two Countries, and a Full Heart

In just under two weeks, I experienced joy, discomfort, peace, and connection. I laughed. I learned. I let go. I was reminded that travel isn’t about proving anything. It’s about being present. It’s about feeling something. It’s about coming home a little different than when you left.

I’ll be back soon with more practical travel tips and teacher itineraries. But for now, I hope this look into my journey invites you to roam with your heart wide open.

Thank you for reading. And thank you for roaming graciously with me.

Have you ever visited Greece or Turkey? Or had a hot tub mishap of your own? I’d love to hear your travel stories in the comments below. Until next time, stay gracious and keep roaming.