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Welcome to Lebanon
مرحبا بكم في لبنان
Welcome to Lebanon, a land of captivating beauty and rich heritage, invites you to embark on an extraordinary adventure. Situated in the heart of the Middle East, Lebanon beckons with its diverse tapestry of history, culture, and natural wonders. From ancient ruins and archaeological sites that whisper tales of the past to vibrant cities buzzing with life, Lebanon offers an array of experiences that will ignite your senses and leave an indelible mark on your soul. Immerse yourself in its enchanting landscapes, unravel the fascinating layers of its heritage, and embrace the genuine hospitality that awaits you. Prepare to delve into a journey of discovery, where ancient traditions harmonize with contemporary marvels, and where every corner reveals a story eager to be shared.
Destinations
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Itineraries 2026
TraveLab Select Hotels
The Conscious Compass -
a blog to elevate your travels
The Ultimate Guide to Explora Journeys: Ships, Itineraries & What’s Included
Looking for a truly elevated cruise experience? Explora Journeys blends ocean travel with the sophistication of a luxury boutique hotel. From lavish suites to immersive cultural itineraries, it’s changing the way we think about cruising. Here's everything you need to know before you book.
Explore the Cyclades
Whitewashed villages. Deep blue domes. Cobblestone alleys. Stunning beaches. The Cyclades are the stuff of Greek travel dreams—and in 2025, they're more magical than ever. Whether you're planning your first island-hopping trip or looking to escape the crowds and find the Cyclades’ hidden soul, this ultimate travel guide has you covered. Let’s dive into everything you need: the best islands to visit, how to get around, where to stay, what to eat, and what not to miss.
Discover the Peloponnese
Dreaming of a Greek vacation with jaw-dropping ruins, secluded beaches, fairy-tale castles, and real-deal food? The Peloponnese is your next great escape. This region is where myths were born, empires rose and fell, and sunsets leave you speechless. Whether you're into ancient history, hiking trails, road tripping, or simply soaking up slow village life, the Peloponnese is the place to do it—all without the tourist crush of Santorini or Athens.
Meteora: A Heavenly Fortress Suspended in Time
Meteora, Greece isn’t just a bucket-list destination—it’s a timeless blend of nature, spirituality, and human determination. With its sky-high monasteries carved into massive rock formations, Meteora offers more than epic views; it's a living monument to resilience, faith, and Greek Orthodox tradition. This deep-dive guide covers everything—from historical backgrounds of each monastery to hiking paths and travel tips.
👨👩👧👦 Best Greek Islands for "Families" Kefalonia, Kos, and Corfu
Planning a family trip to Greece? These three Greek islands—Kefalonia, Kos, and Corfu—offer a perfect mix of sandy beaches, cultural fun, and kid-friendly adventures that parents will love too.
🧭 Best Greek Islands for "Explorers" Crete, Karpathos, and Samothraki
Greece isn’t just beaches and cocktails—it’s a land of gorges, peaks, waterfalls, and timeless villages. For the adventurer in you, these islands—Crete, Karpathos, and Samothraki—are calling.
🏖️ Best Greek Islands for "Beach Lovers" – Antipaxos, Skiathos, and Koufonisia
Ready to chase the most beautiful beaches in Greece? From the Caribbean-like vibes of Antipaxos to the golden stretches of Skiathos and the untouched shores of Koufonisia, these Greek islands are a beach lover's paradise.
💃 Best Greek Islands for "Girls Trips" Paros, Mykonos, and Ios
From beach clubs to boutique shopping and sunset cocktails, Paros, Mykonos, and Ios offer the perfect setting for an unforgettable girls’ trip. Here's how to plan the ultimate Greek getaway with your besties.
🚗 Driving From Athens to the Peloponnese: Road Trip to Nafplio & Beyond
Ready to hit the road from Athens to the Peloponnese? We’ve got all the tips you need—from tolls and traffic rules to where to lunch in Nafplio and chill at stunning beaches like Arvanitia and Psili Ammos.
Best Greek Islands for..... "Foodies" Chios, Crete, and Folegandros
Calling all foodies! If your dream vacation includes feta-topped dishes, slow-cooked lamb, and seaside taverna dining, these Greek islands—Chios, Crete, and Folegandros—are a bite above the rest.
Best Greek Islands for..... "Couples" Paxos, Milos, and Santorini
Planning a dreamy escape with your special someone? Let’s uncover the most romantic Greek islands for couples—Paxos, Milos, and Santorini. From quiet coves to dramatic sunsets, this guide has all the sweet spots.
Cooking with a Greek Soul: An Afternoon with Chef Paris Anton in Athens
Step into the kitchen with Greek-American celebrity chef Paris Anton for a hands-on Athenian cooking experience unlike any other. Cook, laugh, and feast your way through authentic Greek recipes using olive oil and spices from her family farm in Kalamata. Offered exclusively by TraveLab.
🌊 The Best Public Beaches in Athens (2025): Free & Fabulous Spots to Swim Like a Local
You don’t need to pay a cent to enjoy the Aegean Sea in style. While beach clubs like Bolivar and DOT charge for beds and beats, Athens is also home to amazing public beaches that are totally free, super swimmable, and easy to reach by tram or taxi. Whether you’re docked for a day or staying a week, this guide gives you the best public beaches in Athens — with tips on how to get there, what to bring, and what to expect.
🌴 The Best Beach Clubs in Athens: Where to Swim, Sip, and Soak Up the Sun
Think Athens is all ruins and rooftop bars? Think again. The Athens Riviera is buzzing with gorgeous beach clubs that serve cocktails, DJs, and Mediterranean glam—just a short ride from the city center. Whether you're chasing chilled Aegean vibes, sunset parties, or an all-day beach escape, this detailed guide covers the best beach clubs in Athens, including Bolivar, DOT, and the stylish new Lemon Tree. Let’s dive in.
🌈 Athens in 24 Hours: The Ultimate Gay-Friendly Cruise Stop Itinerary
Just docked in Athens with 24 hours to explore? Whether you're here solo or with your fabulous crew, this LGBTQ+ itinerary hits all the highlights: from the iconic Acropolis and sunlit Plaka streets to queer-friendly cafés, cocktails, and a steamy visit to the local gay sauna. Athens welcomes you with open arms—and TraveLab is here to plan your next unforgettable escape through Greece, Egypt, Türkiye, and beyond.
24 Hours in Athens: A Perfect Day Itinerary for Cruise Travelers
Short overnight in Athens during your cruise? No worries — we’ve packed a whole lot of Greek goodness into 24 hours! From the majestic Acropolis to vibrant rooftop bars, this easy itinerary helps you explore the best of Athens stress-free. And yes, TraveLab can handle it all for you — from excursions to custom getaways in Egypt, Türkiye, Greece, and beyond.
SHE Safe Haven Egypt: Real Rescue, Real Cats, Real Change
From the bustling streets of Cairo to cozy couches in Europe and North America, SHE Safe Haven Egypt is rewriting the stories of Egypt’s most vulnerable cats. With daily rescues, rehab efforts, and international adoptions, this independent cat rescue is making a life-saving impact—one paw at a time. And yes, our beloved Suzy is one of their success stories.
Top 10 Secret Budget Hotels in Santorini Under $100 USD
Think Santorini is just for luxury honeymooners and Instagram influencers? Think again! Hidden between the high-end resorts are affordable gems—cozy, quiet, and full of Greek charm. We’ve tracked down the top 10 best-kept secret hotels in Santorini under $100 that will have you soaking in island magic without emptying your wallet.
🚋 Sun, Sand & the Tram: Your Beach-Hopping Guide from Athens
No car? No problem. Athens' coastal tram is your ticket to a beach day done right. From local gems like Edem to the upscale shores of Glyfada and Voula, this guide shows you how to ride the rails to the Riviera—complete with tram stops, travel tips, and hidden spots locals love. Let TraveLab take you from city streets to sandy toes, one scenic stop at a time.
What It’s Really Like to Visit Greece: Myths vs. Reality
Everyone dreams of Greece—Santorini sunsets, turquoise water, feta cheese galore. But is that really what visiting Greece is like? In this honest, unfiltered guide, we break down what traveling to Greece actually feels like (yes, beyond the postcard pics), bust some common myths, and show you how TraveLab’s handcrafted tours make the experience smoother, deeper, and way more unforgettable.
What It’s Really Like to Visit Egypt: Myths vs. Reality
Egypt isn’t just ancient pyramids and crowded bazaars—it’s a whirlwind of culture, color, and connection. This blog breaks down the real experience, shatters a few travel myths, and shows you how TraveLab’s handcrafted tours can unlock the most authentic side of Egypt—without the stress and guesswork.
Greek Food 101: The Flavors Behind TraveLab’s Unforgettable Culinary Tours of Greece 🇬🇷🍽️
You’ve seen the sunsets in Santorini and the ancient ruins in Athens — but have you tasted Greece? The food alone is reason enough to pack your bags. And when you explore with TraveLab on one of their epic Culinary Tours of Greece, you don’t just eat Greek cuisine… you live it.
From olive groves in Crete to seaside tavernas in Naxos, and bustling markets in Thessaloniki, this post is your guide to the mouthwatering world of Greek food you’ll explore on a TraveLab culinary ad
Can You Wash Kilim Rugs in the Washer? The Ultimate Guide to Cleaning and Caring for Your Handwoven Rug
Thinking of washing your Kilim rug in the machine? Don’t! These flatwoven masterpieces need gentle care to stay beautiful for years. This guide will walk you through exactly how to clean a Kilim rug — without damaging it — using simple, effective techniques.
Plus, if you're traveling to Egypt and want to find an authentic, handcrafted Kilim rug, TraveLab offers exclusive artisan shopping tours so you can meet local weavers and buy straight from the source.
🏝️ The 10 Most Affordable Greek Islands to Visit in 2025–2026
You don’t need a luxury budget to live your Greek island dream. Here are 10 stunning yet affordable Greek islands for 2025–2026—complete with local eats, peaceful beaches, and great value stays.
🇬🇷 Greece in April: The Perfect 10-Day Mainland Itinerary for Culture, Cliffs & Calm
From the Acropolis to Meteora’s cliffside monasteries, April is the perfect time to explore Greece’s mainland. Here’s your 10-day spring itinerary packed with culture, history, and awe-inspiring views—minus the summer crowds.
Mykonos Uncovered: A Cycladic Icon with Style, Soul & Sparkle
Mykonos brings it all—whitewashed streets, world-famous beach clubs, cliffside sunsets, and quiet corners you didn’t expect. Whether you’re here to party or relax in style, this guide shows you how to do Mykonos right.
Zakynthos Uncovered: Ionian Wonder With Wild Heart and Gentle Shores
Zakynthos (Zante) is where cliffside drama meets crystal-clear serenity. From world-famous Shipwreck Beach to secret coves and turtle nesting grounds, here’s your go-to guide for an unforgettable island escape.
Dodecanese Island-Hopping Adventure: Your Complete Guide
Looking to explore beyond the usual Cycladic trail? The Dodecanese islands offer stunning beaches, Byzantine monasteries, Ottoman charm, and a slower pace. Here's your go-to guide for planning the perfect Greek island-hopping itinerary in the southeast Aegean.
Rhodes Uncovered: Greece’s Island of Knights, Myths & Magic
From medieval walls to hidden coves, Rhodes is where ancient history meets island escape. This guide walks you through the must-see spots, local flavors, and unique TraveLab experiences on one of Greece’s most legendary islands.
Thessaloniki Uncovered: Greece’s City of Soul, Flavor & Stories
Thessaloniki blends centuries of history with bold flavors, buzzing boulevards, and seaside sunsets. Here’s your ultimate guide to Greece’s cultural capital—and why you’ll never want to leave.
Kefalonia Uncovered: Ionian Beauty Off the Beaten Track
With dramatic coastlines, underground lakes, and postcard-perfect villages, Kefalonia is a quiet stunner in the Ionian Sea. Here’s your ultimate guide to exploring Greece’s lush and laid-back island.
Corfu Uncovered: Ionian Magic from Sea to Summit
Corfu’s a stunner—think olive groves, turquoise bays, pastel villages, and Venetian streets that hum with history. Here’s your complete guide to one of Greece’s most beautiful and diverse islands.
Island Hopping from Athens: Your Guide to Hydra, Aegina, Agistri & Spetses
Sun, sea, and Cycladic charm—Paros is the perfect balance of buzz and bliss. Discover sandy beaches, chic villages, local eats, and the best way to enjoy Greece’s most versatile island.
Halkidiki Uncovered: The Three-Fingered Paradise of Northern Greece
Think soft sand, crystal-clear waters, pine forests, and zero crowds—Halkidiki is Northern Greece’s hidden coastal gem. Here’s your full guide to the best beaches, peninsulas, food, and stays.
Milos Uncovered: Greece’s Most Surreal Island Escape
Lunar landscapes, turquoise waters, and fishing villages frozen in time—Milos is one of Greece’s most magical islands. Discover its top sights, secret beaches, boat tours, and local eats in this full guide.
Paros Uncovered: Effortless Beauty in the Heart of the Cyclades
Sun, sea, and Cycladic charm—Paros is the perfect balance of buzz and bliss. Discover sandy beaches, chic villages, local eats, and the best way to enjoy Greece’s most versatile island.
Naxos Uncovered: The Cyclades' Best-Kept Secret
Naxos blends island beauty with authentic Greek life—think olive groves, ancient temples, golden beaches, and hilltop villages. Here’s your full guide to Greece’s best-kept Cycladic secret.
Ios, Greece: The Island That Parties Hard and Charms Even Harder
Let’s set the record straight: Ios isn’t just a party island — it’s a whole Greek drama. You've got late nights that bleed into beachside naps, sunsets that feel too cinematic to be real, and sleepy hilltop villages where time hits pause. It’s all gorgeous chaos — and if you’ve got a few days, Ios will charm the beach sandals off you.
Lake Vouliagmeni: Athens’ Natural Spa That’s Totally Worth the Dip 🧖♀️
Visit Lake Vouliagmeni near Athens: mineral-rich water, warm temperatures year-round, and just a short ride from the city by tram, bus, or taxi. Here’s how to get there and what to expect.
Athens Island Hopping Guide: Best Greek Islands You Can Visit Without Flying ✈️
Island hopping in Greece doesn’t have to start in Mykonos or Santorini — Athens is your secret gateway to some of the dreamiest islands, many just an hour or two away by ferry. Whether you're looking for a quick day trip or a weekend getaway, this guide breaks down everything you need: ferry times, ticket prices, what to do, where to swim, and how to get there without losing your mind (or your flip-flops). Ready to hop?
Top 10 Foods to Try in Greece (That’ll Ruin You for All Other Food Forever)
You haven’t really been to Greece until you’ve eaten your weight in feta, dripped tzatziki on your shirt, and seriously considered moving here just for the food. Greek cuisine isn’t just delicious — it’s soul-hugging, table-sharing, olive-oil-dripping food therapy. So whether you’re a street food lover, a dessert devotee, or a hardcore carnivore, here are 10 foods you absolutely have to try in Greece — and yes, you’ll be dreaming about them for the rest of your life.
Top 10 Rooftop Bars in Athens with Killer Views & Even Better Vibes
Here’s the thing about Athens: it’s chaotic, noisy, and absolutely magical — especially when you’re watching it from above with a cocktail in hand and the Parthenon glowing in the distance. Whether you’re into bougie wine bars, chill lounges, or DJs under the stars, Athens has a rooftop scene that’s just chef’s kiss. So if you're looking for those "is this real life?" views, here are the top 10 rooftop bars in Athens that’ll make you never want to drink indoors again.
Discovering AVLI Taverna in Athens: The Backyard Taverna That Locals Keep a Secret
f you’ve ever dreamed of finding that one perfect Greek taverna — the kind where the menu isn’t in English, the wine is house-poured, and the granny in the back is probably making your moussaka — AVLI is that spot. Tucked away in a little backyard in central Athens, it’s charming, authentic, no-frills, and so not Instagram-famous (yet). Let’s talk about why this local favorite should absolutely be on your radar.
Top 10 Ways to Save Money on the Santorini Flying Dress Photo (and Still Look Like a Goddess)
Let’s be honest — the Santorini Flying Dress photo shoot has become a rite of passage for Instagram lovers, honeymooners, and every traveler who dreams of twirling dramatically above the caldera like a Greek goddess caught in a Beyoncé wind machine.
10 Quirky & Cool Breakfast Spots in Athens You’ll Wish You Knew Sooner
Athens isn’t just about souvlaki and sunsets — the city is having a breakfast moment. Whether you're after fluffy pancakes, avocado toast with a Greek twist, or an espresso served in a vinyl shop, these quirky cafés prove Athens is one seriously underrated brekkie destination. Hungry yet? Let’s brunch-hop our way through the coolest morning bites in town.
Top 10 Tips for Visiting the Acropolis in Athens (Without the Chaos)
Let’s face it — visiting the Acropolis is a must when in Athens. But if you show up at 1 p.m. in flip-flops with no water and no clue… well, you’re in for a very sweaty, crowded time. Don’t worry — we’ve got your back with 10 smart, tried-and-true tips to make your Acropolis visit smooth, memorable, and Instagram-worthy (without the sunstroke).
Inside the New Guerlain Spa in Athens: Where French Luxury Meets Athenian Calm
Need an excuse to pamper yourself in the heart of Athens? Here it is: the iconic Guerlain Spa has officially landed in Greece, blending Parisian opulence with Athenian charm. Tucked inside the ultra-luxurious One&Only Aesthesis resort, this spa promises a sensory escape like no other. And yes — it’s as fancy as it sounds.
Living in Athens as a Digital Nomad or Expat: Wi-Fi, Cafés, and Cost of Living
Dreaming of Greek sunsets, affordable gyros, and a laid-back Mediterranean work-life balance? Living in Athens as a digital nomad or expat might just be your next power move. Here’s the lowdown on where to live, work, caffeinate, and stay connected in 2025 — without breaking the bank.
The Ultimate Guide to Navigating Athens Metro, Buses, and Trams: From Airport to Beach and Everything In Between
Planning a trip to Athens or just moved to the city? Whether you're heading from the airport, hopping to the beach, or commuting daily, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about using Athens’ public transport system — from tickets and cards to metro hacks and beach-bound buses.
Athens Metro Eyes 24-Hour Weekend Service: A Bold Move to Cut Traffic Accidents
Big news for night owls and weekend warriors in Greece’s capital! Athens’ transport system is gearing up for a game-changing trial: 24-hour operations on weekends. Could this be the answer to safer streets and smoother travel? Let’s break it down.
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