M.I.A. (Malta, Islands, Athens)

Trip Region: Europe
Country(ies): Malta, Greece
Partners Trek? No
Cost: $2673
Airfare Estimate: $1600
Structure:   •   Lodging:   •   Nightlife: 7   •   Activity: 6

Do you ever want to just get away from it all? This is your perfect chance to go M.I.A. in M.I.A. Spend four nights in Malta complete with catamaran booze cruises, catacomb visits, and sea caves explorations! We’ll then pop over to the Greek island of Naxos for a few days, where we’ll relax like gods and goddesses on the largest island in Cyclades before completing the trip in the ancient city of Athens. A perfect mix of culture, sunshine, and great company (if we do say so ourselves). Join us in the Mediterranean before you even have a chance to attend your first Skeeps.

Day 1 — Saturday, Aug 18

Leave the Wolverine State and begin your transatlantic journey to the tiny archipelago nation of Malta.

Day 2 — Sunday, Aug 19

Arrive in Malta and make your way to our beautiful waterfront hotel on St. Julian’s Bay, where we’ll have a relaxing evening in preparation for a week and a half of shenanigans.

Day 3 — Monday, Aug 20

So it begins… We kick off the trip with a tour of some of the dopest attractions Malta has to offer, including the famed Hagar Qim Temples (built more than 5,000 years ago!) and the picturesque Blue Grotto sea caves, where, according to legend, the water is bluer than the Blue Barracuda Fishbowl at Good Time Charley’s. After a day of culture comes an evening of luxury: we’ll finish off the day with a private catamaran booze cruise. Debauchery will likely ensue, and “I’m On A Boat” will undoubtedly be played.

Day 4 — Tuesday, Aug 21

Pull yourself out of bed, do your best to battle through your hangover/jet lag combo, and get amped for a day soaking up some history on a guided tour of two of Malta’s oldest and coolest cities - Mdina and Rabat. While in the ‘silent city’ of Mdina, we’ll wander through the narrow streets and mysterious alleyways (Dan will probably get lost), check out the awe-inspiring views from the bastions of the ancient citadel, before passing through the Greek Gate into Rabat, where we’ll explore the historic - and kinda spooky - St. Paul’s Catacombs. We’ll finish off the excursion with some shopping in the Ta' Qali market, then head back to the hotel.

Day 5 — Wednesday, Aug 22

Congrats team, you’ve earned yourselves a free day. We’ll have some optional, surprise activities planned for those who want to partake, but consider this day your own. Lounge by the pool, explore the city, and rest up for a wild evening of great food and numerous beverages in nearby Valletta, the capital city of Malta.

Day 6 — Thursday, Aug 23

Travel day to Naxos. In the evening, we’ll enjoy some drinks by the pool and hit the town to find some good eats.

Day 7 — Friday, Aug 24

Time to take a break from the wine and get some culture. We’ll start our guided tour in the Damalas village, then head through the valley of Tragaia, where we’ll make stops in the village Halki (which apparently have hella absurd mansions), the Byzantine church of Panagia Protothroni, and the citrus distillery. On the way back, we’ll stroll the marble-paved alleys in the village of Apiranthos village, then pop by the lush settings of Flerio, Melanes to observe the statue of Kouros (a.k.a. the Colossus of Dionysus). The 80-ton structure is from the 7th century BC, which means it’ll look almost as old as Mike. We’ll then head back to the hotel and prep for another strong night out on the town.

Day 8 — Saturday, Aug 25

Today is a well-earned beach and pool day. We’ll have an optional Riverwalk Tour planned for anyone who wants to explore more of the island, but don’t underestimate the benefits of soaking up the Mediterranean sun and recharging those Vitamin D levels. Otherwise, the day is at your disposal. We’ll regroup at night for a special final meal in Naxos.

Day 9 — Sunday, Aug 26

Travel day to Athens. We’ll check-in to the hotel, have a relaxing afternoon, then enjoy an incredible meal at the Diavlos Traditional Taverna, an Athenian classic.

Day 10 — Monday, Aug 27

In the morning, we’ll embark on the Cradle of Civilization Tour and visit some of the most famous Athenian landmarks/monuments, including the Temple of Zeus, Theatre of Dionysus, Parthenon, Agora, among others! We’ll also stop by Hill of Muses, with its famous panoramic views of Athens and the Acropolis, so that everyone can get that perfect ‘gram. #basic In the afternoon, you’ll have some time to shop and explore Athens on your own, before regrouping with your fellow trekkers for one final night of tomfoolery before reality sets back in.

Day 11 — Tuesday, Aug 28

All good things must come to an end; time to head home. Depart from Athens.