Exploring Greece Through Food
When I learned I was going to Greece, my first thought was that I couldn’t wait to learn about the culture and wondered if my experience would be as incredible as it seemed in the movies I watched on TV many years ago. Would the people be just as spirited and fun as they seemed in My Big Fat Greek Wedding and Mama Mia? Would the views be just as breathtaking and magical as they were in Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants?
I can honestly say that Greece not only met my expectations, but exceeded them. From exploring archeological sites to wine tours to sunset cruises and snorkeling. Greece had something to offer for everyone. Each day we had a mix of planned activities and free time. During our free time you could find us checking out the nearby shops and restaurants while chatting with the locals. There was no shortage of entertainment.
One of the highlights for me was the cooking class we took at Mykonian Spiti & Farm. When we arrived, our teacher, Teta, met us with homemade wine and an enthusiasm for Greek culture and food that was exactly what I had hoped for. She quickly shared with us that yes, Greek families are just like what you see in My Big Fat Greek Wedding, just without the Windex. She then warned us to look at the Greek men, but don’t take them home. We all quickly realized we were in for more than just a cooking lesson.
Teta taught us to make spinach pie, tzatziki and stuffed tomatoes. She judged each of us on how “Greek” we each were based on our ability to grab the perfect pinch of salt and pepper. We had a tzatziki making contest that humbled many of us. All the while, she never let our glasses run out of her homemade wine. At the end of our lesson, she and her family set the table and made the most beautiful presentation with the food we had just made. She sat with us and shared more about her life and traditions on the island as we enjoyed our delicious meal.
There are several reasons why this part of the trip was something special to me. Of course the food was incredible but getting to spend time with and learn from a local was a privilege. I knew this trip would be fun and would provide me with incredible memories, but I didn’t know it would continually be something that brought me closer to others and would add value to my life. Since we returned from Greece, I have made the same Greek meal with a friend who was on the trip with me. Each time we have made it for different groups of friends. We get to share our experiences and stories while creating new memories with them. I can’t imagine a more meaningful takeaway from this experience. I’ll forever be grateful for this adventure I took with Women Who Explore.
About Alyssa Heuberger:
Alyssa Heuberger lives in Oregon where she was born and raised. She grew up living a small town life, camping, and exploring Oregon with her family. She has since found a love of traveling domestically and internationally during her breaks as a special education teacher. She enjoys hiking, leisurely paddling, camping, spending time with friends and family and reading a good book in her spare time.
Alyssa has been an ambassador with Women Who Explore since 2019. She has been a part of many adventures with Women Who Explore including getaways to Joshua Tree, horseback riding and camping in the Canadian Rockies, Bali, and most recently she lead a trip to the Greek Isles. She can’t wait to explore with you soon!
