Plato Academy’s Annual Trip
We’re thrilled to look back on the awesome journey our Plato families had exploring the incredible sights of Greece. From ancient ruins sharing stories of the past to lively streets filled with culture, every moment was a true adventure. After a while without a group trip, Plato Academy students and parents from all nine campuses wrapped up an amazing journey on June 19, 2023.
This year’s trip planning kicked off a bit later, but with the help of three fantastic Greek teachers – Mrs. Kapnogiannis, Mrs. Vitous, and Mr. Giavaras – along with support from Mrs. Cicetti, eleven students and eleven parents got ready to explore Southwest Peloponnesus and the island of Zakynthos on June 5, 2023. Unfortunately, due to some last-minute passport and health issues, two families couldn’t make it, but they’re excited for the next adventure in June 2024.
The trip’s idea was to let students experience the historical places they’ve been learning about in their Greek language and culture studies, all in a relaxed and enjoyable way. Plus, both students and parents got to try out local traditional dishes, some of which were totally new to them.
After landing in Athens on June 6th, the travelers from Plato Academy got a warm welcome at Eleftherios Venizelos Airport, with small gifts and hats. A dance group called “Otho – Pato” from the city of Artemidos, wearing traditional clothes, added some color to the heartfelt welcome. After a good rest at their hotel in Athens, they kicked off their tour the next day, exploring cool spots like Syntagma Square, Panathenaic Stadium, and Old Athens.
On the third day, they went to the Parthenon and checked out the super interesting Acropolis Museum. The next day, they hopped on special buses and went through the Isthmus of Corinth, Epidaurus, and Nafplio. After a couple of days, they got to Olympia, where the ancient Olympic Games happened.
They took a ferry to Zakynthos and spent four awesome days there, even visiting the 3rd Public School of the island. The head of education, Mr. Athanasios Katsimbelis, and the school principal gave them a warm welcome and some small gifts. There was a very pleasant surprise when four of our students spoke in Greek to the crowd, and everyone loved it – students and teachers alike.
Leaving Zakynthos behind, they explored Galaxidi, Arahova, and Delphi – a place where ancient leaders got advice from the oracle. In the last days of the Greece trip, they checked out Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon, and had some time for shopping and relaxing too.
On June 19th, I got to meet parents and students at Tampa Airport upon their return. Even though everyone looked a bit tired, the excitement about the Greece trip was clear. One mom summed it up perfectly when she said, “Why wouldn’t we love it? Greece is amazing, the tours were great, our three Greek teachers were awesome, and we enjoyed yummy Greek food for two weeks. We’re totally coming back in two years! Thanks, Greece, for the sun, history, views, and thanks to Plato for making it all happen!”
Stay tuned for news about our next visit, scheduled for June 2024.
Michael Alexandrou