Perfect day!!! Value far exceeds price!!!
What an amazing day with Takis Tsaparas!!
We told Takis (Tsaparas) about our interest in local culture (esp food!). He tailored our day perfectly- perfectly paced and full of wonderful surprises!!
Because Takis made it clear that we were his only priority of the day. He went above and beyond to ensure our visit to his beloved country was extraordinary.
All along our way to Ancient Olympia, talking in perfect English, and as a proud national. Takis shared information and answered our many questions, often with insight for a local offer.
Our first treat was a visit to Takis’ favorite neighborhood bakery. We met the owners. He helped us to select delicious fresh pastries- while helping me avoid gluten and still enjoy! After we left with two beautiful boxes full of scrumptious goodies- including the local Christmas cookies and of course, baklava!
On our way back from Ancient Olympia, Takis had a surprise for us. On a lovely street lined with boutique shops and olive trees, was a quaint and fascinating interactive museum- free of charge and packed full of Archimedes amazing inventions!!! We had done little research on this part of the trip knowing we wanted to see Ancient Olympia and anything else in our short time there would be “icing on the cake”- and it was!! What a gem!
For lunch, Takis took us where he takes his family for Sunday dinner where we had the best, most tender lamb any of us had ever eaten! The vegetables, feta cheese, olives, & local house wine we’re also delicious but the lamb stole the show! When we asked where to get the best fresh local olive oil, Takis took us to meet a friend, who happened to be an olive farmer!
How could we have seen and enjoyed so much in such a short time without feeling rushed?!? We credit Takis’ kind spirit, responsiveness to our interests and needs, generous heart, and pride for his country in making sure we were given every opportunity to appreciate his region of Greece.
After we went back to our boat with full tummies and hearts, boxes of fresh local pastries, wonderful memories and a new friend!w
Because of all these. we give Takis our highest recommendation.
Most importantly: thank you so much, Takis- for showing us your beautiful Greece through your eyes and heart!
