Study, Sip, and Shop in Greece with Dr. Kimberly Majeski
Join Dr. Kimberly Majeski on an extraordinary expedition through Greece and Turkey, tracing the footsteps of ancient women leaders who shaped the early Christian church. This unique adventure, limited to just 20 intrepid souls, offers a perfect blend of historic insight and joyous exploration.
As a scholar of ancient history with a particular focus on women leaders in early faith communities, Kimberly will guide you through a tapestry of historical sites that tell the often-overlooked stories of influential women. From the ruins of Thessaloniki to Lydia's home, from the awe-inspiring monasteries of Meteora to the famous grounds of the Acropolis, each stop on our journey will peel back layers of history to reveal the powerful roles women played in shaping early Christianity.
But this isn't just an academic pilgrimage – it's a celebration of life, both ancient and modern. We’ll have lots of time to shop for souvenirs, enjoy fresh Mediterranean cuisine, and create lasting friendships.
"In every stone and every breeze, we'll discover the whispers of the remarkable women who shaped our faith and our world." - Dr. Kimberly Majeski
Here’s a taste of Kimberly’s 2023 trip to Italy:
Greece and Turkey with Dr. Kimberly Majeski
SEPTEMBER 2025
$4,150 PER PERSON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY
$4,950 PER PERSON SINGLE OCCUPANCY
Limited Space for 20 Guests
Includes: All lodging at 4* and 5* hotels, three-night cruise with exterior cabin, daily activities and travel experiences with Dr. Kimberly Majeski, local certified English-speaking tour guide throughout, ground transportation throughout, private airport transfers, breakfast each day, some lunches and dinners, entrance fees to sites.
Does not include: Alcohol and soda (outside of included wine tastings), optional travel insurance (AWL Travel can refer to partners, prices vary between $50-$350 per person depending on age and coverage), some meals, international airfare, passport fees if new passport needed (no additional visa is needed for Italy), tips
Payments $1,000.00 per passenger refundable deposit at the time of registration holds your space on the trip. All remaining money is due July 1, 2025.
Greece and Turkey Itinerary
*NOTE - Itinerary subject to change until May 1, 2025
Saturday, August 31 » ARRIVE THESSALONIKI
Upon your arrival in Thessaloniki airport (SKG), you'll be greeted by a private driver and transferred to our hotel. Thessaloniki, a vibrant coastal city, boasts a rich tapestry of Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman influences, offering a unique blend of history and modernity. In the evening, we'll gather for a welcome dinner, where Dr. Kimberly Majeski will introduce the group and share insights about our upcoming journey. Overnight in Thessaloniki.
Sunday, September 1 » PHILIPPI AND THESSALONIKI
We'll start our day with a visit to Philippi, where we'll see the Kavala mosaic and visit the site of Lydia's baptism. Philippi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was a key location in early Christianity and offers a tangible connection to the apostle Paul's missionary journeys. In the afternoon, we'll return to Thessaloniki for free time to explore this historic city. Dr. Majeski will provide recommendations for local cuisine, shopping, and points of interest. Overnight in Thessaloniki.
Monday, September 2 » THESSALONIKI TO METEORA
This morning, we'll depart Thessaloniki and drive to Meteora. Along the way, we'll stop at Berea, an important site in early Christian history. Meteora, with its breathtaking monasteries perched atop towering rock formations, offers a spiritual experience like no other, combining natural wonder with Byzantine artistry. Upon arrival in Meteora, we'll check into our hotel and have time to marvel at the stunning landscape. Overnight in Meteora.
Tuesday, September 3 » METEORA TO ATHENS VIA DELPHI
We'll leave Meteora and make our way to Athens, with a significant stop at Delphi. Here, we'll explore the ancient Oracle site and discuss its importance in Greek history and mythology. Delphi, often referred to as the "navel of the world," offers unparalleled insights into ancient Greek spirituality and stunning mountain vistas. In the late afternoon, we'll arrive in Athens and check into our hotel. Overnight in Athens.
Wednesday, September 4 » EMBARK ON CRUISE, MYKONOS
This morning, we'll board our cruise ship to begin our Aegean adventure. In the afternoon, we'll arrive at our first stop, the beautiful island of Mykonos. With its iconic windmills, pristine beaches, and charming white-washed buildings, Mykonos epitomizes the allure of the Greek islands. Enjoy free time to explore the charming streets and watch the famous Mykonos sunset. Overnight onboard the cruise ship.
Thursday, September 5 » EPHESUS AND PATMOS
Today we'll visit two significant sites: Ephesus in Turkey and the island of Patmos. In Ephesus, we'll walk through one of the best-preserved ancient cities and discuss its importance in early Christianity. Ephesus offers an unparalleled glimpse into Greco-Roman urban life and early Christian history. On Patmos, we'll visit the cave where tradition holds that John received his Revelation. This small, serene island holds immense spiritual significance and natural beauty. Overnight onboard the cruise ship.
Friday, September 6 » CRETE AND SANTORINI
Our cruise continues with stops at Crete and Santorini. On Crete, we'll explore the ancient Minoan civilization, delving into one of Europe's oldest and most mysterious cultures. In Santorini, we'll have time to admire the stunning views and discuss the island's possible connection to the lost city of Atlantis. Santorini's dramatic cliffs, blue-domed churches, and legendary sunsets make it a photographer's paradise. Overnight onboard the cruise ship.
Saturday, September 7 » DISEMBARK CRUISE, CORINTH, ATHENS
We'll disembark from our cruise in the morning and drive to ancient Corinth. Here, we'll discuss the letters of Paul and the early Christian community in this important city. Corinth's extensive ruins and museum offer fascinating insights into both Greek and Roman periods, as well as early Christianity. In the afternoon, we'll return to Athens and check into our hotel. We’ll have free time to explore Athens and shop for souvenirs. Overnight in Athens.
Sunday, September 8 » ATHENS TOUR AND FAREWELL DINNER
Our final full day will be spent exploring Athens, the cradle of Western civilization. We'll visit the ancient Agora, climb the Acropolis to see the Parthenon, and discuss the role of women in ancient Greek society. Athens seamlessly blends its ancient glory with a vibrant modern culture, offering world-class museums, charming neighborhoods, and unforgettable views. The afternoon will be free for last-minute shopping or exploration. In the evening, we'll gather for our farewell dinner, reflecting on our journey. Overnight in Athens.
Monday, September 9 » DEPART FOR USA
Private transfers will take you to the Athens International Airport for your return flight home.