Devon Lovings of Dekalb, IL decided to take a random trip to Greece with his childhood Greek-American friend. Here is what happened for Devon.
Devon’s Greek Adventure: From Monasteries in the Sky to Endless Feasts and Friendly FacesWhen my friend Devon set off for Greece with his Greek buddy Alex, he had no idea how deeply the country would capture his heart.
What started as a trip to explore ancient sites and soak up some sun turned into an unforgettable journey filled with breathtaking views, mouthwatering meals, and the kind of warm hospitality that makes you want to stay forever.
Devon came back raving about Greece—and he’s already planning his return to Crete this year!The absolute highlight for Devon? Meteora. Perched atop towering sandstone pillars that rise dramatically from the Thessaly plains, the monasteries of Meteora feel like something out of a dream—or a fairy tale.
Monks first settled in the area as early as the 11th century, seeking solitude and spiritual closeness to God. By the 14th and 15th centuries, during a revival of monastic life, 24 monasteries were built atop these “columns in the sky” (Meteora literally means “suspended in the air”).
Despite incredible challenges—like hauling materials up sheer cliffs—six active monasteries remain today, including the iconic Great Meteoron and Varlaam. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, they blend stunning natural geology with profound religious history.
Devon couldn’t stop talking about how surreal it felt to stand among these “monasteries in the sky.” And he’s not alone in his awe—Meteora draws massive crowds, making it the second most visited mainland destination in Greece after the Acropolis.
Estimates put annual visitors at around 2.5 million, with a mix of international tourists (often 70%+ foreign, from places like the US, Russia, Italy, and beyond) and Greeks drawn to its spiritual and scenic magic. Social media is flooded with photos of the rock formations at sunrise and sunset—it’s no wonder Devon’s feeds are still full of his own shots!After the otherworldly heights of Meteora, Devon and Alex headed to Thessaloniki, Greece’s vibrant second city.
Known for its rich Byzantine heritage, lively waterfront, and buzzing food scene, Thessaloniki welcomed millions of visitors in recent years. The city’s international airport saw nearly 2.5 million international passengers in 2024 alone, with strong growth continuing into 2025.
Devon loved wandering the historic streets, checking out landmarks like the White Tower and the Arch of Galerius, and soaking in the blend of ancient Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman influences that make it feel like a living museum.Next stop: Ioannina (also spelled Yannina), the charming lakeside capital of Epirus.
Nestled by Lake Pamvotida with its island monastery and Ottoman-era castle, Ioannina offers a quieter, more introspective vibe. While exact visitor stats are harder to pin down (it’s not as massively touristed as bigger spots), it’s gaining popularity for its history, silver craftsmanship, and peaceful atmosphere—perfect after the crowds elsewhere.
One thing Devon couldn’t get over? The food. “I never ate so much Greek food in my life,” he laughed. Every meal felt like a celebration of fresh, flavorful Mediterranean classics. He devoured moussaka (that comforting layered eggplant and meat casserole topped with creamy béchamel), souvlaki (grilled meat skewers wrapped in pita), pastitsio (a hearty baked pasta dish with spiced meat and béchamel), fresh Greek salads loaded with feta and olives, tzatziki, dolmades (stuffed grape leaves), and plenty of grilled seafood.
Alex made sure they hit authentic tavernas, where portions were generous and everything tasted like it came straight from someone’s yiayia’s kitchen.What really touched Devon, though, was the people.
Everywhere they went—from remote mountain roads to bustling city squares—Greeks were incredibly friendly and welcoming. Strangers offered directions, shared stories, and even invited them for a coffee. It made the trip feel personal, not just touristic.
One bittersweet note: Devon kept noticing the stray dogs roaming the streets and beaches. Greece has a well-known issue with stray animals—estimates suggest millions of homeless dogs and cats nationwide, often friendly but in need of care.
Devon wanted to help every one he saw, stopping to pet them, share scraps, and wishing he could do more. It added a heartfelt layer to his trip, reminding him how much love there is to give in such a beautiful place.Greece left an indelible mark on Devon.
The history, the landscapes, the food, the kindness—it’s all pulling him back. Crete is next on his list, and knowing him, he’ll be planning even more adventures soon.Have you been to Greece? What’s your favorite spot or dish? Drop a comment below—I bet Devon would love to hear your stories too!