The thing about Americans is, unless they’re of native ancestry, they can trace their roots elsewhere. Family customs that derive from other countries ultimately made their way to the fabled shores of a land that evoked the promise of a better future. And in the case of Floridian Caroline Marks, it was her grandmother that came to the United States from Greece.
“The reason I came to Greece is because my grandma was from here, and, you know, she passed away last year,” says Marks. To honor her grandmother’s legacy, and to explore her own roots, Marks decided to take a family trip to Greece – mingling with the people, enjoying the food, and surfing.
Caroline Marks jumps into the surf in Lagourvardos, Greece. Photo: Nathan Adams/Red Bull
In terms of waves, Greece ain’t Indo, not by a long shot. To score requires a lot of local knowledge, patience, the ability to drive long distances at the drop of a hat, and some serious luck. But growing up surfing in Florida has given Marks a different outlook on surf travel. “It has made me really appreciate when there is surf,” she says. Not to mention surf travel isn’t always about the quality of the waves. For Marks and her family, traveling to Greece and surfing together touched on something deeper. “I think my grandma would be proud,” says Marks.
Caroline Marks laying down the hammer in Lagourvardos, Greece. Photo: Nathan Adams/Red Bull
