Following the Steps of Paul in Greece

FOLLOWING THE STEPS OF PAUL IN GREECE 9 DAYS 8 NIGHTS Thessaloniki / Philippi / Kavala / Veria / Vergina/ Kalambaka Meteora / Delphi/ Ancient Corinth / Cenchrea / Athens / Saronic Gulf

One of the most remarkable religious routes in Greece is following the journey of Apostle Paul. Apostle Paul came to Greece where he spread the word of God’s Kingdom; leaving behind a legacy that we read about today in the New Testament.

The journey of Paul through Greece is a historical pilgrimage of God’s faithful servant sharing the good news of Christ. In this tour, we will visit the places where Apostle Paul preached. Following Paul’s journey is an ideal combination of learning the rich history of some of the great stories of biblical times and at the same time sightseeing in some of the most beautiful places in Greece. Walking where Paul and his companions were known to set foot is an experience of a lifetime that will leave any traveller greatly fulfilled.

9D8N – FOLLOWING THE STEPS OF PAUL IN GREECE 27 September – 5 October 2022 Target group size : 16 – 18 pax

Price per pax

Ground Tour Price base on a minimum of 16 persons per group Price base on a minimum of 10 persons per group

Qatar Airways Kuala Lumpur – Athens (return) • •

€1,738 €1,908 From RM2,700 ~ RM3,000 *

Ground tour is priced in EURO. Please note that due to fluctuation in exchange rate, the package price in Malaysian Ringgit will be subject to change upon full payment.

International flight tickets are charged at the going rate at the time of booking, estimates given is at time of checking on 5 May 2022 * . Flight tickets once booked is non-refundable in the event of cancellations

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ITINERARY DAY 1: Kuala Lumpur – Athens - Thessaloniki – Arrival (D) Fly from Kuala Lumpur to Athens. From Athens, domestic flight to Thessaloniki. Meet and greet by the local escort and transfer to your hotel. Day at leisure, dinner and overnight Thessaloniki.

Overnight Thessaloniki

DAY 2: Thessaloniki / Philippi / Kavala / Thessaloniki (B/L/D) Breakfast and trip to Philippi, the town where Paul delivered his first sermon in Europe, sowing the seeds of Christianity. “And from there (He went) to Philippi, which is the leading city of the district of Macedonia and a Roman Colony. We remained in this city some days…” (Acts 16:11-12). Paul arrived here with Silas and Luke on the winter of AD 49 to AD50. There the first Christian baptism was performed, of a woman named Lydia. We will visit the small river that Lydia was baptized. Although they were prosecuted and arrested, they received God’s help to escape from prison (Acts 16: 25-26) where there was the conversion of the jailer (Acts 16: 31).

We will visit the Roman Theatre, probable site of the prison where Paul and Silas were arrested. Then continue towards the city of Kavala, the ancient city of Neapolis (Acts 16:11) where Paul landed with his disciples, Timothy and Silas. It was later renamed Christoupolis, meaning city of Christ, because it was the first European city to accept Christianity. We will visit the Roman Aqueduct and the ruins of the Acropolis. Dinner and overnight in Thessaloniki.

Highlights : Philippi - River of Lydia, Roman Theatre | Kavala - Roman Aqueduct, Acropolis Overnight Thessaloniki

DAY 3: Thessaloniki city tour / Veria / Vergina / Kalambaka (B/L/D) After breakfast the trip continues with exploring the city of Thessaloniki, where Paul preached the gospel in the second and third missionary journey. For the early Christians of this city he wrote epistles “To the Thessalonians.”

We will visit the Cathedral of St. Demetrius, the Protector Saint of the city, the Agora, the Church of Saint Sofia, Rotunda Church, the White Tower and the Byzantine fortress of the city, the triumphal Arch of Galerius starting at the Via Egnatia, once a strategic artery of the Roman Empire.

Next stop will be Veria (Berea), another town evangelized by Paul (Acts 17: 10-14). When Saint Paul visited this town in AD50, he came across a more “noble” Jewish community where he preached and created an important Church. This is where Paul met Sopatros (or Sosipatros), who would later become a valuable comrade who followed him on his return journey to Asia. We will visit the ancient synagogue where we will see the Byzantine mosaic in the monument commemorating his preaching.

Then we will head to Vergina, the legendary burial site of the Macedonian kings. This place is considered as a World Heritage Site, also known as the Royal Tombs and houses the tomb of King Philip II, father of Alexander the Great. Depart for Kalambaka.

Highlights 2

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Thessaloniki - Cathedral St Demetrius, The Agora, Church of St Sofia, The White Tower, Byzantine fortress, Triumphal Arch of Galerius, Rotunda Veria - Ancient Synagogue, Byzantine mosaic monument – St Paul’s Tribune Vergina - Royal Tombs of Aiga Museum

Overnight Kalambaka

DAY 4: Kalambaka / Meteora / Delphi (B/L/D) After breakfast the trip continues with a visit the spectacular Meteora, the UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is a mountainous region of stunning scenery. You will see hundred-year-old Byzantine monasteries on top of huge rocks, during the Middle Ages, first built in the 14th century by monks seeking isolation and salvation. We will visit the most famous of them, which is now a popular museum, the Great Meteoron, to admire superb icons, old manuscripts, unique mosaics and frescoes. We will continue to Delphi for dinner and overnight.

Highlights: Kalambaka - Great Meteoron Overnight Delphi

DAY 5: Delphi / Athens (B/L/D) After breakfast we will continue our tour with exploring Delphi. Delphi is the famous oracle where the priestess of Apollo, Pitia, influenced, with their prophecies the history of cities and states of antiquity. Visit the archaeological site and museum.

The museum houses an impressive collection associated with ancient Delphi, including the earliest known notation of a melody, the famous Charioteer, golden treasures discovered beneath the Sacred Way, and fragments of reliefs from the Siphnian Treasury. Close to the exit is the inscription that mentions the Roman proconsul Gallio.

We visit the Temple of Apollo. The reference to proconsul Gallio in the inscription provides an important marker for developing a chronology of the life of Apostle Paul by relating it to the trial of Paul in Achaea mentioned in the Acts of the Apostles (18:12-17). Return to Athens.

Highlights: Delphi - Archaeological site & Museum, Temple of Apollo Overnight Athens

Day 6: Corinth/Cenchrea (B/L/D) After breakfast, we will head toward ancient Corinth (Acts 18.1-18). It was in ancient Corinth where Paul came and worked, established a thriving church and writing two of the epistles, which are now part of the New Testament. We will see all the sites that are associated with his ministry: the Agora, the Temple of Apollo, the Roman Odeon, the Bema and Gallio’s seat, the pillars, stairs, and the place of public worship, where Paul preached. All these visits will certainly enhance the understanding of Corinthians I and II. We will pass by the Corinth Canal, visiting the Isthmus Canal, one of the most important projects and 19th century engineering masterpieces that played a catalytic role for the Mediterranean trade. Visit Ancient 3

Diolkos, a paved trackway in Ancient Greece which enabled boats to be moved overland across the Isthmus of Corinth.

Next stop is at Acrocorinth, the acropolis of ancient Corinth, a monolithic rock overseeing the ancient city of Corinth. It is one of the most impressive and dominant acropolises of the Peloponnese Gates. Acrocorinth's fortress was repeatedly used as a last line of defense in southern Greece. Key historical monuments at the site; Keep, Peirene Spring, Temple of Aphrodite, Frankish Tower. Enjoy the view of Geraneia Mountain.

For Christians, Ancient Corinth is well known from the two letters of Paul in the New Testament, First and Second Corinthians. It was one of the largest and most important cities of Greece at the time.

We will explore the Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth, housing a large collection of artifacts from the local site and from smaller sites in the neighboring area. The museum is located within the archaeological site of Ancient Corinth. Key monuments at the site include: Hadgimoustafa spring, Lechaion Road, Basilica, Fountain of Peirene, Stoa, Agora, Odien, Theatre The Agora is a rectangular construction 160 m long and 70 m wide, consisting of central shops, small temples and the renowned podium or Bema from where Apostle Paul addressed the Corinthians in 52 AD. The Temple of Apollo is one of the earliest Doric temples in the Peloponnese and the Greek mainland with monolithic columns, rare in the ancient world, built around 560 BCE. At St. Paul's church, admire the magnificent mosaic mural depicting Saul's vision from Christ as he was travelling to Damascus to persecute the Christians.

We will visit the ancient port town of Kenchreai or Cenchreae, one of the two ports of the inland city state of Corinth. According to Acts 18:18 the Apostle Paul stopped at Kenchreai during his second missionary journey, where he had his hair cut to fulfill a vow (Nazirite vow). Drive back to Athens.

Highlight: • Corinth – Corinth Canal, Acrocorinth, Ancient Corinth, Ancient Corinth Archaeological Museum • Cenchreae Overnight Athens

Day 7: Athens Full Day Tour (B/D) After breakfast we will go on a city tour to explore the city of Athens. Athens is one of the most glorious cities in the world and the cradle of western civilization as we know it today.

Sightseeing in Athens starts with the hill of Acropolis. On the historical hill, you will have the opportunity to see the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, the Temple of the Athena Nike, the monumental gateway (Propylaea), the Erechtheum and the famous Parthenon. Across the Acropolis is the Aeropagus or Mars Hill, where Paul preached the powerful sermon of the one true God to the Gentile Nation. (Acts 17:16–34) At the northwest of the Acropolis is the Ancient Agora of Athens. Considered as the birthplace of democracy, philosophy and free speech. In Acts 17:16-34, Paul preached in the synagogue at Athens and also discusses with the Greek philosophers in the Ancient Agora.

After the Acropolis, we will head towards the Temple of Zeus, the biggest temple in antiquity, devoted to the King of the Gods, by way of Hadrian's Arch.

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Moving into the historical center of the city we will drive up the highest hill of Athens, Lycabettus Hill, where you’ll have the best panoramic view of the city, from the hill of Acropolis to the Aegean Sea. We will visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which is off Syntagma Square below the Hellenic Parliament; and if time permits, watch the ceremonial changing of guards (Evzones).

Not to be missed is a visit to Plaka, an old historical neighbourhood of Athens. It is known as the "Neighborhood of the Gods" due to its proximity to the Acropolis and its many archaeological sites. Lunch will be free and easy at your own expense today. Our tour guide will suggest and recommend local taverns for you to sample authentic Greek cuisine.

We will visit the Acropolis Museum. This dazzling modernist museum at the foot of the Acropolis’ southern slope showcases its surviving treasures still in Greek possession. While the collection covers the Archaic and Roman periods, the emphasis is on the Acropolis of the 5th century BCE, considered the apotheosis of Greece’s artistic achievement. Built in 2009, this museum was voted as the best mono-thematic museum for 2019.

Amongst the places we will pass in no particular order is the Parthenon, Propylaea, Erechtheion Temple of Poseidon and Athena, Temple of Athena Nike Temple, Panathenaic Stadium where the first modern Olympic Games were held in 1896. Temple of Hephaestus, The Academy of Athens, The National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, National Library of Greece, Monastiraki historical old neighborhood of Athens.

It will be a full day city tour. There will be some landmarks which we will pass within viewing distance and some sites that we will stop to visit. The order of the places to visit will depend on timing and traffic conditions.

Highlight: Athens – Acropolis, Aeropagus, Ancient Agora, Temple of Zeus, Lycabettus Hill, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Plaka, Acropolis Museum Overnight Athens

Day 8: Day cruise to the Saronic Gulf (B/L) After days of touring the historical sites, we will leave the ruins and the bustle of the city behind to enjoy the island life that Greece is known for.

We will leave the hotel early in the morning to sail to the Saronic Gulf, stopping at three of the most picturesque islands, Hydra, Poros and Aegina. We will have time to explore each island that the boat stops at; stroll under the red-tiles roofs of Hydra, do some shopping in Poros, and visit the Temple of Aphaia in Aegina.

Lunch will be on board the boat. A stress-free way to see more of Greece, even with just a day to spare.

After a full day cruising, we will get back to our hotel for a free and easy evening. On this last night, you may want to rest, explore the streets of Athens or do your last-minute shopping. Dinner will be own arrangement.

Highlight: Saronic Gulf - Hydra, Poros Aegina Overnight Athens

DAY 9: Athens Airport (B) After breakfast at the hotel, we will head to the Athens International airport for our return flight to Kuala Lumpur, leaving with great memories from Greece.

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** The planned itinerary may change subject to ground conditions and situations at the time of travel.

FLIGHT DETAILS 27 Sept 2022 2:45 AM Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) 5:25 AM Hamad International Airport (DOH)

Travel time: 7 hr 40 min Layover at Doha: 2 hr 10 min

7:35 AM Hamad International Airport (DOH) 12:15 PM Athens International Airport (ATH)

Travel time: 4 hr 40 min

4:35 PM Athens (ATH) 5:30 PM Thessaloniki (SKG)

Travel time: 55 min

Qatar Airways Boeing 787QR 204

1:45 PM Athens International Airport (ATH) 6:10 PM Hamad International Airport (DOH)

Travel time: 4 hr 25 min Layover Doha: 2 hr 25 min

Qatar Airways Airbus A350QR 844 Arrive 06 Oct 2022

8:35 PMHamad International Airport (DOH) 9:25 AM +1 Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL)

Qatar Airways Boeing 777QR 853 Qatar Airways Boeing 787QR 203

27 Sept 2022 Sky Express GQ384

05 Oct 2022

Hotels Thessaloniki (2N) 3 stars hotel – Vergina or similar class

Kalambaka (1N) 4 stars hotel – Orfeas or similar class

Delphi (1N) 3 stars hotel – Hermes or similar class

Travel time: 7 hr 50 min

Athens (4N) 3 stars hotel – Dorian Inn or similar class

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INCLUDED IN TOUR PRICE ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

Domestic flight from Athens to Thessaloniki All ground transfers and tours with modern A/C & WiFi bus Twin sharing hotel accommodation (3 stars hotel at Thessaloniki, Delphi, Athens & 4 stars hotel at Kalambaka) Hotel taxes Entrance fees for visits in the itinerary Day cruise to the Saronic Gulf islands English speaking licensed guides at the various places to visit English speaking escort upon arrival in Thessaloniki Two bottles of mineral water per person per day Meals listed in itinerary- local 4 course (Appetizer/Salad/Main/Fruit or desert & Water) Tips for guides, driver and assistant

EXCLUDED FROM TOUR PRICE  Travel Insurance 1  COVID related tests (if required) 2  Meals not included – Day 7 Lunch, Day 8 Dinner (Budget  Personal expenses  Hotel charges for additional services  Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary Notes: 1. You are advised to purchase travel insurance with COVID coverage 2. Visitors who are fully vaccinated for COVID-19 with 3rd booster jab (Pfizer, AZ & Sinovac accepted) do not require quarantine nor tests upon arrival at Greece. However cognizant of the evolving health requirements for different countries, you will be advised nearer the time of departure for updated requirements.

3. Malaysian passport holders are allowed to enter Greece Visa free for up to 3 months.

PAYMENT TERMS • • •

20% of the ground tour fare will be collected upon confirmation of booking.

Balance of ground tour fare will be collected 45 days prior to tour departure date.

Full fare is payable for flight bookings. Fare will be as charged by airline at the time of booking. Flights booked cannot be refunded for cancellations or change.

TERMS & CONDITIONS •

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Package itinerary and flight schedule may be subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances beyond Tour Operator’s control. Every effort will be made to operate tours as planned, but alterations in accommodation arrangement, tour program, travel date, may occur when deem necessary.

It is the responsibility of the tour members to ensure that their names are cleared from the black list by any regulatory bodies in Malaysia or destinations that may prohibit overseas travel or arrival. Tour operator will not be held responsible or liable in the event any tour member is denied travel by the Malaysian Immigration. Tour fares will not be refunded.

All tour members must be fully vaccinated and comply to the health regulations of the authorities of Malaysia and Greece for travel.

Passports and travel documents must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of travel.

All flights and hotels are provisioned and will be subject to change until the final confirmation .

We reserve the right to alter the sequence or change, amend or alter the itinerary, if necessary.

Cancellation fees per person shall be imposed as follows: ⁻ Cancellation less than 44 days prior to departure – 100% of total tour fare forfeited ⁻ Cancellation 45 days or more prior to departure – Tour deposit & domestic flight fare forfeited

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No refund for cancellation of flight tickets at any time

Please contact Yoke Chin for enquiries and reservations at: Tel: +6017-3781768, yokechin@lovelymemoryholiday.com

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