SPIRITUAL GREECE
plus a visit to Ephesus

Hosted by Kathleen McGowan

June 16-24, 2019

Meet Europe’s glorious past on its home ground on this 9-day Spiritual Journey to Greece, featuring Athens, the “Cradle of Civilization,” Epidaurus, birthplace of Apollo’s son Asklepios; Mycenae, the 1350 BC ancient city; Delphi, home of the ancient Oracle.

Then visit the Greek Islands of Crete, birthplace of Zeus; Mykonos, the “island of the winds,” Delos, the “Cyclades of the ancient world,” Samos, dating back to ancient times plus a special excursion to Kusadasi, with a visit to Ephesus featuring the House of Mary.
 
Throughout our journey we will share ceremonies, meditations and rituals that connect with the powerful energies of the Greek Gods and Goddesses, and the aspects of consciousness they represent that assist in our personal growth.

Your Hostess on this Sacred Journey

Kathleen McGowan
Television personality and international bestselling author of The Magdalene Line series, including The Expected One and The Book of Love, Kathleen brings a depth of knowledge and passion for ancient history as it pertains to the Divine Feminine to this very special spiritual adventure and exploration. Every day brings new stories from this world-renowned storyteller.

Highlights:

• The Sanctuary at Epidaurus, the healing place of the Classical world
• Mycenena, home to the Kingdom of the mystical Agamemnon
• The Cyclopean walls and the Lioness Gate at Mysenea
• The magnificent Temple of Apollo in Delphi
• The Parthenon temple dedicated to the goddess Athena in Athens
• In Athens, the Roman Temple of Olympian Zeus
• The Acropolis and Acropolis Museum housing 3,000 years of history
• The Parthenon, the all-marble temple dedicated to the goddess Athena
• Visit to Crete and its first myths and legends
• Tour the Palace of Knossos in Crete
• Sightseeing tour of the island of Myconos,
• Delos and visits to the Temples of Apollo and the sanctuary of Artemis
• Samos to visit the Temple of Hera
• Ephesus and St. Mary in Ephesus, the first church in the world dedicated to the Virgin Mary
• Visit to the House Of Virgin Mary at Ephesus

Itinerary

Day 1- Sunday, June 16 Arrive Athens. Onto Nauplion (D)
Upon arrival in Athens, and after clearing Immigration and Customs, we board our coach and depart for Nauplion. Mid-way we will have dinner at a seaside restaurant. After dinner we proceed to Nauplion for our overnight accommodation in a delightful local boutique hotel.
Note about arrival in Athens: Kathleen and her group will be arriving from Malta in the late afternoon. So plan your arrival after 3 pm to meet her at Athens Airport .

Day 2- Monday, June 17: To and Epidaurus, Mycenena & overnight Delphi  (B/L/D)
A full day of touring today as we will visit some of the most spiritual places in Greece and escape the modern world, immersing ourselves in the antiquity. We leave Nauplion for Epidaurus, reputed to be the birthplace of Apollo’s son Asklepios, the healer. Epidaurus was known for its sanctuary as well as its theater, which is once again in use today. The cult of Asklepios at Epidaurus is attested to have been in the 6th century BC. Epidaurus was the most celebrated healing center of the Classical world, the place where ill people went in the hope of being cured. In their dreams, the god himself would advise them what they had to do to regain their health. Asklepios, the most important healer god of antiquity, brought prosperity to the sanctuary. Even after the introduction of Christianity and the silencing of the oracles, the sanctuary at Epidauros was still known as late as the mid 5th century, as a Christian healing center in Greek mythology. Then we go back to 1350 BC to the ancient city of Mycenae home to the Kingdom of the mythical Agamemnon. In Greek mythology the city was founded by Perseus, who gave the site its name either after his sword scabbard mykes) fell to the ground and was regarded as a good omen. Perseus was the first king of the Perseid dynasty which ended with Eurytheus (instigator of Hercules’ famous twelve labours). The succeeding dynasty was the Atreids, whose first king, Atreus, is traditionally believed to have reigned around 1250 BCE. Atreus’ son Agamemnon is believed to have been not only king of Mycenae but of all of the Archaean Greeks and leader of their expedition to Troy to recapture Helen. We will have lunch at a local tavern and then view the Cyclopean walls and the Lioness Gate before continuing to Delphi for dinner and overnight.

Day 3- Tuesday, June 18: Tour of Delphi and to Athens. (B/L/D)
After an early breakfast we leave our hotel to explore Delphi, the home of the ancient oracle, one of the most famous, mystical sites in the world. After the Acropolis, Delphi is the most popular archaeological site in Greece. In ancient times, it was considered the center of the known world, the place where heaven and earth met, and where man/woman were considered closest to God/Goddess. First, we visit the magnificent Temple of Apollo, located in a spectacular mountain setting. Apollo Delphinus or Delphinius was the dolphin-form of the god that was revered at Delphi, despite its location high in the mountains. The oracle that was located at this site was said to be founded by Apollo, the God of Healing and Oracles. Oracles were given once a month and would attract people from all over Greece. The temple was destroyed by fire in the fourth century BC and then rebuilt. The temple walls were inscribed with of wisdom such as “Know Thyself” and “Nothing in Excess.” This spiritual experience, whereby the spirit of Apollo was asked for advice on critical matters relating to people’s lives or affairs of the state, was a “magical” occurrence for several thousand years. And, the fact that the town still attracts a million visitors a year could make one believe some of that magic is still there. If you have a belief that you can receive guidance from other realms, can keep an open mind, and are receptive when you are at the Oracle, it may be a magical and enlightening experience. Time allowing, we may visit the ancient springs that pre-dated the temples and whose water is purported to have special healing powers. There will be some short time for personal meditation to experience the very special qualities of this site and a quick lunch, before we depart for Athens. Upon arrival in Athens, we will have a tour featuring the ancient sites such as the Roman Temple of Olympian Zeus and end our tour with a visit to the incredible Acropolis of Athens on foot, seeing one of the most important world heritage sites on the planet that includes the Parthenon, the all-marble temple dedicated to the goddess Athena, daughter of Zeus and Goddess of wisdom, war, and crafts that was long the religious shrine and high fortress for the Athenian people. Onto the Acropolis Museum. The Acropolis Museum that houses more than 3.000 famous artifacts from the Athenian Acropolis. The Museum narrates the story of life on the Rock from prehistoric times until the end of Antiquity. We then check into our hotel to refresh ourselves followed by a late dinner at a typical taverna in Plaka. Overnight in Athens.

Day 4- Wednesday, June 19: To Crete (B/D)
After breakfast, we Transfer to the airport for our short flight to Heraklion, also known as Iraklio. Upon arrival we’ll be met by our guide and start our tour. According to Greek mythology, Zeus, the father of gods and humans, was born in Crete and married Europa, the beautiful daughter of King of Phoenicia. It was in Heraklion that the resourceful craftsman Daedalus, constructed the famous Labyrinth. Kathleen will recite versions of the labyrinth legends for you here! Cretan mythology has a unique beauty and an aesthetic. Its mythology has the deepest roots of connection to the archaeological treasures – many myths are strongly connected to the real findings on the island. Out first stop will be the Palace of Knossos, where we will be taken back 4,000 years. The palace is one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world, a cradle of European culture and the center of the Minoan civilization, as we hear the fascinating story of the Minoan period and learn more about the Minotaur and Ariadne. The Palace abounds with legends. Our tour ends with a visit to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum that is regarded as one of Europe’s most important museums that brings together archaeological finds from all over Crete, covering over 5500 years of the island’s history.  Pride of place is given to the treasures of Minoan civilization, and the importance of the Snake Goddess. The afternoon is free for independent exploration before we have dinner at a local restaurant or our hotel. Overnight in Crete.

Day 5- Thursday, June 20: To Mykonis (B/D)
Morning departure by Hydrofoil for the island of Mykonos. Mykonos, flaunts its double personality the moment you set eyes on its coastline. In the distance, undulating hills host the island’s iconic windmills, turning in symphony with the seasonal winds that have branded Mykonos ‘”island of the winds”. This afternoon we discover the charm and history of Mykonos’s whitewashed churches, windmills, and narrow winding streets on this in-depth walking tour of the magical old town. We’ll learn about famous local figures, stroll through the island’s “Little Venice,” where the houses are built on the sea. These were built from the mid. 18th Century onward and were homes of wealthy merchants and captains. Then we venture off the beaten path as our guide shares local lore and the town’s ancient and cultural roots. Dinner this evening at our hotel or nearby restaurant. Overnight in Mykonos.

Day 6-Friday, June 21: In Mykonos. Excursion to Delos (B/D)
After breakfast we board a caique (small boat) for a short ride to Delos. Delos was known as the island of light, birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, home to the first multicultural civilization and trade. The whole territory of the deserted Delos is one of the most important archaeological sites of the eastern Mediterranean protected by UNESCO. We will visit the remains of the Temples of Apollo, the sanctuary of Artemis, the old city and the theatre. Then walk down the celebrated Lion Street and a visit to the museum of Delos, where we can admire Archaic, Classical, Hellenistic and Roman Sculptures, as well as a collection of vessels from all periods as well as small items of everyday use. Lunch and some free time for independent exploration before we return to Mykonos for our dinner and overnight.

Day 7- Saturday, June 22: To Samos (B/D)
Breakfast is followed by a transfer to the pier and take our ferry ride to Samos. You can relax on the 3+ hour ride and have lunch onboard on your own. On arrival, (subject to our disembarkation time) we will start our afternoon tour with the Temple of Hera, a marvellous feat of construction dating from the ancient times. Then, we head north to the monastery of Megali Panagia (15th c.) – an example of “Byzantine Greece.” Continue with a stop to the traditional mountain village of Pyrgos (famous for its honey and ceramics).  After visiting Pýrgos, there is a stop in the area of Koutsi – an ideal place to take panoramic photos, before continuing to our visit at a traditional Greek vineyard, where we will get the chance to taste some of the famous Samian wines before heading back to our hotel for our overnight and dinner.

Day 8- Sunday June 23: In Samos: Full day tour to Kusadasi – Ephesus (B/D)
Today we travel to the land of mosques and minarets to Turkey, as we visit  the city of Ancient Ephesus, the Ionian colony, which is one of the largest open-air archaeological museums in the world. Together with our tour guide, we’ll pass the Magnesian Gate. Traces of the Hellenistic, Roman and Early Christian period are scattered everywhere: the Agora, the Odeon, the Library of Celsus, the marble-paved main Street of the Kouretes, the Thermal Baths of Scholastica, Trajan’s Fountain, Hadrian’s Temple, and the Great Theatre. Kathleen will tell the story of Cleopatra’s sister, Arsinoe, who was murdered here as a priestess of Diana – a great historical crime which was never solved. Highlight will be to visit to the House of Virgin Mary  – it is believed by many that the mother of Jesus settled here late in her life.  This is a Christian and Muslim shrine located on Mt. Koressos, discovered by a French priest that was then verified by a Papal visit in 1967. It has since been accepted that Mary spent her last few years here until her passing. The Church of St. Mary in Ephesus is the first church in the world dedicated to the Virgin Mary and is the same church also known as one of the Seven Churches of the Apocalypse.  Kathleen will discuss the varying legends of the Virgin Mary’s final years. Late afternoon cruise back to Samos for dinner and our overnight.

Day 9- Monday June 24: Samos Departure (B)
Our tour ends with a transfer to the airport for our flight back to Athens. Arrival will be about 10:30 am so if you are connecting to a flight home, it should be after 1pm.

Our Tour Includes:

• Accommodations for 7 nights
• Hotel taxes
• Breakfast every day
• 2 Lunches
• 7 dinners
• Wine at dinners
• Transportation by coach
• Ferry services between the islands
• Sightseeing as per itinerary
• Sightseeing entrance fees
• Flight from Athens to Crete
• Flight from Samos back to Athens

Hotels (or similar)

Please Read the Terms and Conditions for this Tour.

** Bonus! SAVE! You will receive a 5% discount if ALL payments are made by check or money order. This discounted price is noted below in red.

*Special No Interest + No Payments for 6 Months Plan Now Available!
RMC Travel now offers the “PayPal Credit” Plan (Click here for details)

PRICING
ALL INCLUSIVE PRICES (LAND ONLY)

Price Per Person

Per Person Double Occupancy: $3,999 by check, $4,199 by credit card
Per Person Single Occupancy: $4,789 by check, $5,019 by credit card

Special Discounts

ALUMNI SPECIAL DISCOUNT (For Previous travelers with Kathleen)
Per Person Double Occupancy: $3,849 by check, $4,049 by credit card
Per Person Single Occupancy: $4,579 by check, $4,819 by credit card

COUPLES & FAMILY SPECIAL DISCOUNT
Price Per Couple – Please note that this refers to two people sharing ONE bed

Per Couple: $7,698 by check or money order, $8,098 by credit card

Deposit Schedule:
Initial Deposit – due on April 1, 2019 in order to ensure a place on the tour
Per Person Double or Single accommodations: $750 by check or money order, $785 by credit card
 
Final Payment Due on or before April 15, 2019

If you have already registered online and require access to the PayPal payment page, click here.

Travel Insurance
RMC Travel highly recommends the purchase of Trip Cancellation/Interruption Travel Insurance, and we therefore provide you with an easy way to contact RMC’s preferred insurance provider, Allianz Global Assistance. If you need additional information or have questions, please call Allianz directly at 800-284-8300, and refer to code F025323

For Air Travel, Contact Bob Ryder
at the BMSJ Air Reservation Desk
1-888-551-8184 or email: BRyder@Prodigy.net

Photo credits:
Acropolis by Adam L. Clevenger licensed under the Creative CommonsAttribution-Share Alike 2.5 Generic license.
Mycenae walls by Roccuz licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.5 Italy license.
Delphi Kastalische Quelle by Stefan Volk licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license.
Monastery Megali Panagia by Pavel Vlček licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license.
Palace of Knossos photo by Bernard Gagnon licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license.
Museum snake goddesses photo by Eli Shany licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license.