Greece 2020

Let me conclude with thanks. First, to the travel agency dotramtarie.cz. They offered us a truly tailor-made trip. Practically everything we requested was delivered in reality as well. The only complication was a slightly more difficult entry into the sea, which was caused by the uncertain situation and a minor underestimation on the part of the locals. According to our findings, the beach had been regularly maintained in previous years and cleared of large stones that slightly spoiled our impression of swimming in the sea. Further thanks go to Naďa for organising the morning exercises, which had very good attendance. Also to Soňa for providing medical support. Fortunately, it was practically not needed, and only non-haemophilia participants of the trip required minor treatment. And finally, thanks to all participants. Everyone enjoyed themselves and spread maximum good vibes to each other, which further enhanced the experience of the whole event.

Given recent developments, it is unlikely that we will head to the sea again next year. However, for 2023, you should slowly start saving...

On behalf of the organisers, Michal Skořepa

The Czech Hemophilia Society thanks Michal Skořepa, who willingly took on the organisation of the entire stay and brought everything to a successful conclusion. Michal, thank you!

And now the promised reviews from the participants:

Eliška

The week-long stay flew by. That alone shows how much we enjoyed it. The selected Lardos Bay hotel was excellently situated. The beach was about 150 m from the hotel, with a shop right next to it. Meals were served buffet-style, and some enjoyed that very much. Since the hotel was full of foreigners (both guests and staff), many of us got to practise their English.

On the very first evening, we went to the village of Lardos, which was about 2 km from the hotel. On Saturday afternoon, our group set off to visit the town of Lindos. Here we walked through the town and visited the local Acropolis. Some two-legged ones rode there on the backs of donkeys, while the "four-legged" ones had to run up on foot. The view was a wonderful reward for the effort, and the ice cream tasted even better. The following day was a rest day, so we spent it by the sea. The aforementioned beach had sun umbrellas with loungers, but most people were in the sea anyway. Although it was difficult for some to get into the sea, everyone found their own little path and enjoyed the pleasant water. On Monday, we rented cars and explored the western part of the island. We saw the confluence of the Mediterranean and Aegean seas; the hardy chamois climbed Monolithos. Then our group split up, and some went to the Valley of the Butterflies, or visited the city of Rhodes, or took a dip at Tsambika beach. On Tuesday we rested by the sea again, except in the afternoon when those who had not yet been visited the beautiful city of Rhodes with a guide, with its many narrow streets and little shops. And most importantly, the place where one of the legendary Seven Wonders of the World once stood — the Colossus of Rhodes. On Wednesday we were also at the sea, where some brave souls tried water sports. Then Thursday came — time to finish buying gifts and souvenirs and, unfortunately, mainly packing. Still, we enjoyed the last moments by the sea. After dinner we left for the airport, from which we took off just before eleven. We returned to Prague to the sound of Vltava by Bedřich Smetana. The holiday was truly a success, and I am already looking forward to the next one.

Eva

Dear friends, this year on the second attempt, the trip to the island of Rhodes took place. The composition of participants was diverse, from children to seniors. We were accommodated a short walk from the sea, and the pool was popular especially with the children. The stay was not just about relaxation and swimming, but also about exploration. My greatest experience was the donkey ride — I was unable to climb onto the donkey by myself, so the "donkey man" took me in his arms and simply threw me onto it. My grandson, along with other participants, enjoyed a ride on a rubber chair pulled across the sea by a motorboat. Some ladies took advantage of pool exercises and Pilates. There was also a group night walk and night swimming in the sea, music, dancing, and sitting at the bar. A great group came together; Adam and I really liked it there, and Adam did not want to leave at all. I would like to thank Michal for organising everything so well, and I look forward to perhaps another seaside trip sometime in the future.

I wish you all a lovely rest of the summer.

Petr

I had not been to the sea for a long time, so I decided to join the trip with the Hemophilia Society to Greece, to Rhodes. Given that it had been a long time since my last extended trip abroad and my first time on a plane, it meant some stress for me. However, that disappeared as soon as I found myself in the pleasant environment of the nice Lardos Bay hotel in the night hours. My excitement continued in the morning after waking up and then throughout the following days. I greatly enjoyed swimming in the pool and spending time at the beach by the sea, which was only a few steps from the hotel. After trying to swim as long as my strength allowed, I really savoured the food in the restaurant, which I cannot complain about at all. Nor can I complain about the accommodation. I just had to overcome the heat a bit, but that is simply Greece in July. I also took advantage of the trip to Rhodes; I liked it very much and admired its ancient atmosphere and monuments. I enjoyed it all very much. I would like to thank Michal Skořepa and everyone who contributed to the organisation. I think everything can be summed up in one word — wonderful. For me, simply priceless. I look forward to next time.

Karel

Members of our organisation participated in a group trip to the island of Rhodes in Greece from 8 July to 16 July 2021. Travelling abroad is no longer a problem for haemophilia patients today. Everyone brought their own medications, which they administer themselves. All that was needed was to fill out a form and pack the medications and a doctor's certificate in the luggage. Some members flew for the very first time and were also at the sea for the first time.

A wonderful holiday! The organiser Michal Skořepa took excellent care of everything, together with others. Everything was perfectly organised. The physiotherapist ensured morning exercises to get us moving right away. A nurse was also present. Everything went like clockwork despite the COVID restrictions.

We were very satisfied with the accommodation, food, and the flight.

The only thing we missed was Czech beer?!

In any case, this year's trip to Greece was a success. We all thoroughly enjoyed the holiday and look forward to the next event.