I'm just curious of any of your experiences. How much did you spend total and per day? did you get a travel agent? where did you stay? was it as wonderful as you imagined it? do you have any tips to offer for an (hopefully) imminent traveler?
It should in theory be possible, although you'd have to watch your budget and it obviously won't be wild luxury, plus you probably won't be able to travel around much. If you have the possibility of going outside of high season, I'd do that, since you can save quite a bit on flights that way and leave a bit of air in your budget for longer trips, excursions, shopping etc. It won't be that much fun going to Greece and having to turn every penny (or cent in this case).
I don't know how it is in the US regarding travel agencies, but here in Europe, I've found that it's usually cheaper to book everything myself, unless the travel agency has a really good deal. What we usually do for vacations is to find a cheap flight through momondo.co.uk, and then find a hotel through a site like booking.com (remember check these kind of sites on Trustpilot and check the hotels on Tripadvisor).
Remember the earlier you book, the cheaper it usually it, unless you're lucky and can get some last minute booking, but that's risky. What days you travel on can also affect the price, usually travelling during weekends costs more. We've always been satisfied, but always do your research and use your common sense when you travel like this.
Plan everything in advance and leave some space in your budget. You don't want to run out of money halfway through your vacation. Check taxi fares, metro fares, restaurant prices, ticket prices, entrance fees etc. online before you book to get an idea of what it'll cost.
I've been in Greece a couple of times and it was lovely (and warm! We went in summer), I can't tell you our budget because I honestly don't remember, and also it wouldn't be of much help, since we travelled from within Europe, stayed for free in Athens with relatives, and otherwise winged it without having any bookings when we drove south.
Tips: When in Rome (or in Greece in this case) do like the Romans, when taking a taxi, always ask in advance how much the trip will cost and make sure the metre is turned on, don't be surprised if you have to share a cab or if the taxi driver stops to pick someone up on the way if they're going the same way as you (you usually don't get a discount on the fare, so don't expect that). Very important: Watch where the the locals eat, these are usually the best places, the locals know what's good. ;)
I don't think you can do a two week trip to Europe with a budget of $2500 each because the airfare (during summer) will be half of you budget. Maybe a one-week trip.
Talk to a real travel agent about package deals and special fares.
Good luck!
I've been to Greece many times and I loved it and can't wait to go back!! It's so gorgeous!
Your Dad clearly doesn't realise just how far away Greece is. And it's one of the cheaper countries.
150 Euros a day
