Northern Greece in $430s-$640s RT

I know what you're thinking, and don't worry—Thessaloniki is pronounced pretty much how it looks, so you won't have to strain when you're bragging to your friends about the good times you had in Greece.

I know what else you're thinking, and yes—Northern Greece is a terrific winter destination. The mountains are covered in snow (skiing, anyone?), you can visit spots like the clifftop monasteries of Meteora without any crowds, and there are some wild festivals you won't want to miss. No need to fret about the cold, either; hearty Greek food will keep you warm all day long.

And if you find yourself yearning for the island life, Cyprus, Crete and Malta are all just a short hop away :-)