Greece Trip Update

We are winding down our time in Kyparissia and getting ready to go to Athens tomorrow and then back home on Monday. Overall, it has been an incredible trip with an impressive range of activities and experiences for the students ...and the chaperones! It's easy to see how passionate the people are here about their country, its history, its natural beauty, and the uncertainty of its economic future. We have been lucky to have four people/groups responsible for this extraordinary cultural and service trip: the Woodgates, our local 'host' family who have been invaluable both helping with the leg work before our arrival and accompanying us several times during our time here; Yannis, the head triathlon trainer, tour guide, and raconteur, who proudly showed us so much of his native country; the Vincent family who took time from their busy schedule to return to Kyparissia to join us for five days of our trip - and whose love of life/adventure is infectious; and, most importantly, to Riley McQueen who would not give up in making this first SMUS trip to this part of the world a reality. Just over a year ago she spent over a month here with the Vincent family and saw the potential in initiating a SMUS trip combining several important elements of Greek culture, history, and some service in helping out a local club in need of some support. The photos give you a snapshot of the breadth of experiences we have all had. In reality, for many of us, it will hard to say goodbye tomorrow morning. But Athens beckons as too the reality of being here on referendum day! We do indeed go for the full tour package!