Glorious Greece! With their bold reopening, travelers dreams float towards Greece and the sparkling Greek Islands this summer. The warmth and allure of Greek culture transcends millenia, as next generations find their spirits rejuvenated and souls nourished among the azure water and olive trees. Art, literature, history, cocktail bars, muses, and more await. The culture scene is thriving–and a treat for any traveler willing to do some research and dive in. Here’s a culture snapshot and a place to lay your head.
ART
The contemporary art scene thrives in Athens, with a mix of museums and galleries on any art enthusiast’s itinerary. Female gallery owners in particular are making a big splash currently in the capital. Mix old and new on your trip to the Acropolis by popping into nearby Rebecca Camhi Gallery and Eleni Koroneou Gallery.
The National Museum of Contemporary Art (EMST) reopened in 2020 and its collection—mostly purchased during the boom years before the 2004 Olympics—is well worth a visit. Look for Greek artists such as Chryssa, Rena Papaspyrou, and Nikos Kessanlis.
BOOKS
The Magus by John Fowles
This twisted, delicious romp through a young man’s sexual and romantic coming of age, has haunted and beguiled readers since 1965. Set on a mysterious Greek Isle, the novel is filled with psychological and mythic twists and turns to keep you guessing until the very last page. A classic and a beach read in one, don’t head to Greece without this tucked in your bag.
MUSIC
Rebetiko is a folk musical style which originated in coastal cities during the Ottoman era. Similar to blues or fado, rebetiko began as “scandalous” among the downtrodden, before turning into a beloved and essential part of Greek culture. Despite its ancient origins it is still part of taverna culture to this day.
MOVIES
Greek cinema has enjoyed an international renaissance with the Greek Weird Wave, spearheaded by enfant terrible Yorgos Lanthimos. American audiences will be familiar with The Favorite (2018) and The Lobster (2015), but he also directed four films set in Greece, including the comedy My Best Friend (2001), crime drama Kinetta (2005), and dark comedy Dogtooth (2009).
Escapist fare tends to run the Mamma Mia/Summer Lovers route–instead seek out a DVD of High Season (1987) starring Jacqueline Bisset and Kenneth Branagh. Roger Ebert wrote “High Season is an example of a rare species: the intelligent silly movie.” Shot on location in Rhodes, the British rom-com will have you packing your bags immediately.
LAY YOUR HEAD
Melisses is a boutique hotel and sanctuary on the island of Andros. The natural environment inspired the architecture so the property melts into the landscape—guests only notice the panoramic view and dramatic sunsets. Meals are often served by the pool and all rooms have sea views. Retreat packages vary from yoga to winemaking to photography. They sell out fast so don’t wait to book. Your paradise awaits.