PotomacBeads
Athens, Greece
Bead Tour 2025

Exact Dates TBD

Prague  •  Jablonec  •  Liberec

Overview

Experience our first ever bead tour in Athens, Greece

Join PotomacBeads co-founder Allie Buchman for a 7-day, 6-night bead-filled adventure in the historic city of Athens, Greece! Immerse yourself in the heart of Greek culture as you explore Athens’ vibrant local bead markets, visit artisan workshops, and experience the breathtaking scenery on a day trip to the stunning islands near the city. From the Parthenon to hidden gems in the city’s bustling neighborhoods, you’ll uncover rich history, inspiring creativity, and endless beauty. Throughout the tour, enjoy hands-on beading projects and connect with Allie and a community of fellow beaders who share your passion. This is more than just a tour—it’s a journey into the art, history, and heart of Greece.

PotomacBeads International Tours

A Journey of Creativity and Connection

Prague

Community

Jablonec

Adventure

Beadonit board with project in the works

Inspiration

What is Included

  • Hotel rooms for 6 nights.
  • All transportation to tours and events throughout the trip by bus.
  • 3 jewelry-making classes taught by Allie & team
  • Breakfast every morning
  • 3 Lunches and 1 Dinner
  • Factory Tours at 2 different bead and findings manufacturers
  • Gift Bag ($200+ value, including 8x11" BOIB) 
  • 8 shareable tool sets brought for guests:

What is not included

  • Airfare
  • Transportation from the airport to hotel
  • Meals beyond breakfast and 4 provided
  • Kit pack for classes ($200)
Women with beads

Testimonials from PotomacBeads Events

  • Beads in Czech Republic
    Stars

    "I loved being with people of different skill levels at our table. We learned from each other. Allie and Anna walk around the room and gave individual help with a project. Different kits using a different technique. The supplies were phenomenal and you didn’t have to bring anything. And best thing was a visit to the warehouse and shopping. Like being in a candy store!"

    - Vicki Howell
    2023 Bead Retreat Guest

  • Stars

    "I have high praise for the Potomac Bead Co. staff and instructors who went above and beyond to enhance our beading retreat experience . There were many nice surprises and lots of beading goodness throughout the retreat. I made new friends and will attend the retreat next year.’’

    - Janet Faust
    2023 Bead Retreat Guest

    Stars

    "This was my first beading event and I was truly impressed with all that we accomplished, even though I finished most projects at a later date, I feel we were taught the basics of each. Prior to this I mainly created bracelets, now I am making rings, Christmas ornaments and have developed an interest in wire wrapping. I would definitely return for another retreat!’’

    - Laurie Cammett
    2023 Bead Retreat Guest

  • Blog
    Stars

    "The retreat was so much fun. Potomac Beads did a great job putting it together and providing the supplies needed. It was the perfect way to meet other beaders and make new friends. Allie and Anna are such great teachers. It was great to be able to get help with the projects, not only by the staff but by other beaders as well. Loved being able to shop the warehouse and meet the staff. You see or hear their names so often, it's great to put faces to names. And the number of product is tremendous. It was a great experience and I'm sorry I won't be able to attend this year. But look out 2025, l'll be there!’’

    - Dee Peterson
    2023 Bead Retreat Guest

  • Stars

    "The Potomac Bead team was FABULOUS!!!! The supplies and tools we received were very generous. The "golden tickets" were fun!’’

    - Kris Huett
    2023 Bead Retreat Guest

    Stars

    "I enjoy the retreat and meeting other beaders from all over the country. When I was having problems the other ladies at my table jumped right in to help me so that I could learn what we were being shown. All I can say is that beaders are the greatest!!!!’’

    - Mona Hellard
    2023 Bead Retreat Guest

  • Blog
    Stars

    "I have to say that the retreat was fantastic. Everyone was so friendly, helpful and more than willing to help. The staff were very courteous, willing to answer any questions and offered so much enthusiasm. I come from the corporate world and most of the time felt intimidated and uneasy with the higher up staff. Allie, Nathan and Anna were so down to earth to speak to even though they were the owners of the company. I would definitely recommend the retreat to any of my friends who wanted to attend.’

    - Patricia Jaccoud
    2023 Bead Retreat Guest

  • Stars

    "I have high praise for the Potomac Bead Co. staff and instructors who went above and beyond to enhance our beading retreat experience . There were many nice surprises and lots of beading goodness throughout the retreat. I made new friends and will attend the retreat next year.’’

    - Janet Faust
    2023 Bead Retreat Guest

    Stars

    "This was my first beading event and I was truly impressed with all that we accomplished, even though I finished most projects at a later date, I feel we were taught the basics of each. Prior to this I mainly created bracelets, now I am making rings, Christmas ornaments and have developed an interest in wire wrapping. I would definitely return for another retreat!’’

    - Laurie Cammett
    2023 Bead Retreat Guest

  • Blog
    Stars

    "You were generous with providing us with tools, plenty of material for each project and giving us two free beading boards. Lunches were healthy and there was plenty of drinks and fruits every day. What I value most was your heartfelt care showed throughout the retreat, providing help to the beaders where it was needed with many useful tips. The atmosphere was warm and friendly with lots of laughter. Each beader brought home a beautiful feeling of making friends and learning new techniques and improving the old ones. Thank you Potomac Beads Team, especially Nathan, Allie and Anna forlasting memories and hope to see you next year again."

    - Marta Cizmarik
    2023 Bead Retreat Guest

  • Stars

    "I loved the opportunity to tour the facilities. That was a huge draw for me! And again, I loved the opportunity to try different techniques that I never would have tried. I met some absolutely fabulous fellow beader’s and learned as much from hearing, watching, and conversing with them as from the planned presentations. My best educational moment and laugh was when one amazing woman showed me “how Beader’s greet each other!” . … a close examination of all the other Beader’s jewelry/accessories before even looking at their face to say hello!’’

    - Linda Masoero
    2023 Bead Retreat Guest

    Stars

    "Everyone from Potomac Beads were so friendly and easy to talk to. I really enjoyed the warehouse tour and meeting the workers. I love that there are a lot of family members working there. That says a lot.’’

    - Marie Edwards
    2023 Bead Retreat Guest

Explore

Photos from past events

Prague

Shopping

Class in Czech

Classes

Liberec

Gift Bags

Examples of past projects

Projects for the 2024 Tour will be announced by the end of March 2024

Prague

Charles Earrings

Jablonec

Liberec Collar Necklace

Liberec

Bohemian Flower Pendant

This Athens, Greece Bead Tour is friendly to spouses. A spouse will need a ticket, but does not need to purchase a kit pack if not desired. Couples can also enjoy the savings of a shared room. Shared rooms will hold 2 people, and you can request to be with a friend! 

Only 50 spaces available, so book your spot early!

You will be invited to a private Facebook group for the event, where you can meet other attendees, ask questions, and make plans for your trip and bead tour!

Save $200 Paying in Full

$2,799* Per Person

Shared room

*Paid in Full
$2,999 if paid over time

+$200 Kit Fees

$3,299* Per Person

Single room

*Paid in Full
$3,499 if paid over time

+$200 Kit Fees

Kit Fees

$200

Per Person

Spouses are not required to purchase a kit package
if they are not taking the classes.

Pay Deposit Only

Partial payment

$2,999 Per Person

Double/shared room

$1499 deposit

Balance of $1500 due May 2024

+$200 Kit Fees

Partial payment

$3,499 Per Person

Single/private room

$1799 deposit

Balance of $1700 due May 2024

+$200 Kit Fees

**Prior to May 1, 2024, cancellations are eligible for a full refund, deducting the non-refundable deposit of $500. After May 1, 2024, a refund of 50% will be provided, less credit card fees, and after July 1, 2024, no refunds will be issued.

FAQ

Answers to Questions About the 2025 Bead Tour

  • What Day Should I Arrive?

    Flights from USA often arrive in the morning and we plan to meet for dinner on the first day in Athens.  You can arrive that first morning or come the day before.  You may want a recovery day for the time change.  

  • Which airport should I fly into?

    The main airport in Athens is Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH). It’s located about 20 kilometers (12 miles) east of the city center and serves as the primary international gateway to Athens and Greece. The airport offers various transportation options to the city, including metro, bus, taxi, and suburban rail services.

  • How do I get from the airport to the hotel?

    To reach your hotel from Athens International Airport for the Bead Tour, you have several convenient transportation options. Taxis and public transportation are both readily available and offer efficient routes to your accommodation.

    Taxis: At Athens Airport, you’ll find designated taxi ranks where licensed taxis are waiting to take you to your destination. Taxis typically operate on a metered fare system, ensuring transparency in pricing. The fare to central Athens is generally fixed, but it’s advisable to confirm the rate with the driver before beginning your journey. Make sure to choose licensed taxis from the official queue to avoid potential issues.

    Public Transportation: The airport is well-connected to the city center via metro, suburban rail, and express buses. The Metro Line 3 (Blue Line) takes you directly from the airport to downtown Athens, with key stops like Syntagma Square and Monastiraki. The metro offers a convenient, budget-friendly way to reach your hotel, especially if it’s located near one of the central stops. Additionally, X95 express buses operate frequently and connect the airport with Syntagma Square.

    Regardless of your choice of transportation, it’s recommended to have your hotel’s address readily available, written down or saved on your smartphone, to ensure smooth communication. With these options, you’ll be able to begin your Athens Bead Tour adventure with ease.

  • When should I schedule my departure flight, particularly with regard to the Bead Tour's itinerary?

    Given that the last night included in the Bead Tour package is on October 11, it's recommended to schedule your departure flight for October 12 from Prague, the Czech Republic's capital city. This allows for a smooth transition after the conclusion of the tour activities, ensuring you have ample time to check out of the hotel and make your way to the airport without feeling rushed. Prague's international airport offers various flight options to accommodate your departure needs, providing convenience and flexibility as you conclude your Bead Tour experience. Remember to plan your departure time accordingly, factoring in travel to the airport and any personal preferences or additional activities you wish to undertake before leaving Prague.

  • I'm considering joining the Bead Tour, but I'm wondering if there's an opportunity to connect with other participants before the trip, especially if I'd like to travel with someone. Is there a platform for this?

    Absolutely! Once you sign up for the Bead Tour, you'll receive an invitation to join our private Facebook group exclusively for tour participants. This group serves as a fantastic platform for connecting with fellow travelers before the trip begins. Here, you can introduce yourself, engage in discussions about the tour itinerary, share travel tips, and even explore the possibility of arranging to travel together with someone who shares similar interests or preferences.

    The Facebook group is an invaluable resource for building camaraderie and forming connections with your fellow adventurers before embarking on the Bead Tour. Whether you're seeking a travel buddy or simply want to get to know your fellow tour companions better, this platform facilitates communication and fosters a sense of community among participants. Join the group, start conversations, and embark on your journey with newfound friends by your side!

  • When will projects be announced?

    Projects for the tour will be announced by Allie prior to the Bead Tour. Exact dates TBD.

  • I have dietary restrictions

    No problem!  We will send a survey weeks prior to the tour asking for any dietary restrictions, so that those can be accomodated.

  • I received an invite to the private Facebook group after purchasing the Bead Tour. Do I have to join the group, especially if I don't use Facebook or simply prefer not to?

    Absolutely not! While we do extend invitations to our private Facebook group as a means for participants to connect with one another before the Bead Tour, joining is entirely optional. We understand that not everyone utilizes Facebook or may prefer not to engage with social media platforms.

    Rest assured, we'll be sharing all pertinent information regarding the tour via email. The Facebook group is solely an additional avenue for participants who wish to interact with their fellow travelers, discuss potential travel arrangements, or simply get to know one another before the trip. If you prefer not to join or don't have a Facebook account, you won't miss out on any essential updates or communications related to the tour.

    Your comfort and preferences are important to us, and we're committed to ensuring that all participants feel informed and included, regardless of their engagement with social media platforms. So feel free to opt-in or opt-out of the Facebook group as you see fit, and rest assured that you'll receive all necessary information via email.