A tour tailor-made for Greek food lovers

In May 2009, Greekalicious cooking school founder Maria Benardis will take inquiring travellers on a Spring-in-Greece journey through the mythical Greek isles. It's a tour that visits the very places where cookery and gastronomy all began.

Discovering secret places and exciting foodie fun across the isles of Chios, Psara, Santorini, Crete and cities and regions of Athens, Kalamata, Pylos, Koroni and Ancient Corinth; the Nineteen day adventure explores the Greek way of life first-hand.

The exclusive expedition includes discovering an ancient Grecian monastery where monks have been making olive oil since 1632, organic farms and markets, cooking classes with Greek provedores descended from generations of specialists; and groves boasting olive trees more than 500 years old.

Meeting locals and visiting places and regions from the time of Homer's Iliad, Maria opens doors for cookery and culture lovers never before revealed to visitors; encouraging a complete submersion into Greek food and lifestyle.

More than a little excited about the May 2009 tour, Maria assures a first-class food experience of Mediterranean luxury and learning awaits her small group of travellers.

"Greeks live a lifestyle steeped in the traditions and ways of ancient times. Generally Greeks enjoy good health, longevity and happiness and I believe this is due to the respect we have for food through our traditions and the integral part food plays in our culture."

"My Spring 2009 tour will explore age-old Grecian techniques, ingredients, cookery secrets and customs still delivering a relaxed and healthy lifestyle to Greeks today. Some of the highlights that await include feasting on freshly caught seafood by the shores of the Mediterranean in my home-town Psara; watching the most amazing sunsets in full view of the caldera in magical Santorini; and dancing the "Kalamatiano" in Kalamata."

Promising more than a few incredible moments Maria's tour offers up 'the real Greece' coupled with luxurious accommodation, historic and stunning island locations, the finest regional food and wine, and legendary Greek storytelling.