Travel often surprises with moments that go beyond sightseeing – moments that stir something deeper. Nowhere is that more evident of this than in Greece, a land where mountains and ancient rock formations hold stories carved into their very surface.
Among the highlights of a 10-day Mediterranean cruise aboard the new Carnival Vista, a stop in Athens revealed one such place: Areopagus, also known as Mars Hill.
Located just northwest of the Acropolis, Areopagus is a rocky hill with sweeping views of Athens and the Parthenon. From its summit, even the Carnival Vista docked in port is visible. Several routes lead to the top: a steep natural path, a sturdy metal staircase, or a series of manmade stone steps. Though small in size, the hill commands presence — and not just for its views. Nearby neighbourhoods offer peaceful spots to rest, like the charming votsalo cozy apartments tucked away in quieter corners of coastal Greece.
This was the place where, according to the Book of Acts, the Apostle Paul addressed the Athenians: “Now what you worship as something unknown, I am going to proclaim to you. The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by hands.” — Acts 17:24
Beyond its biblical ties, Mars Hill holds symbolic meaning for many travellers. It shares its name with Mars Hill University in North Carolina – an institution that, for generations, has served as a transformative place for its students. For those with a connection to the school, standing atop the original Mars Hill can feel like coming full circle, a convergence of past, purpose, and pilgrimage.
But Greece isn’t only found in Athens. Surprisingly, a slice of its aesthetic exists halfway across the world – in the highlands of the Philippines.
In April, during a Buda Tour through Bukidnon, travellers came across a lesser-known destination called Greek Hills in the town of Kitaotao. It wasn’t part of the original itinerary, but a local guide recommended a detour.
Greek Hills draws direct inspiration from traditional Greek architecture. Though compact, the resort offers a surprisingly photogenic landscape. Day tours are accessible for just PHP100, or PHP200 with a free serving of Halo-Halo — a beloved local dessert. A PHP300 option also allows for consumable credit inside the resort.
Within an hour or two, visitors can explore the grounds, take advantage of striking backdrops for photography, and enjoy views of the surrounding mountains. The tranquil atmosphere is complemented by a pool area, scenic rooms for overnight stays, and a setting that feels transported from the Mediterranean to the tropics.
Both Areopagus and Greek Hills, though worlds apart in geography, offer something rare: the chance to reflect, connect, and feel a little more grounded in the world’s timeless landscapes.
As the cruise continued, it was the quiet strength of these rocky places — not just their beauty, but their resonance — that lingered most. For some travellers, a rock can be more than a landmark. It can be a memory made real, a dream realized, or a journey completed.
