Here we sit in the airport in Rome awaiting our flight to Athens, Greece. Out of all the places we are going to visit, this one makes me nervous. Government workers are upset about their benefits and pay, therefore they are holding demonstrations. My understanding of a demonstration is it is like a riot in the U.S. People are lighting tires on fire and throwing them in the street, attacking and killing innocent people with crowbars... basically committing violent acts to prove a point. It sounds as though most of this takes place next to the Acropolis which is where most of the government buildings are. It's also where our hostel is located and many of the main tourist attractions are. I have to admit, for the first time, I am hesitant and scared. Hoping to arrive, be safe, and reassured.
It's going to be a hectic few days as we catch a ferry to Santorini tomorrow morning at 0700. No idea how far it is from our hostel to the port. Hopefully it all goes smooth as it was my 'demand' that we visit Greece while on this European adventure even though it is WAY out of the way. I am hoping I am right about just how amazing Greece is and it's worth the detour. It's been on my bucket list and am beyond excited to experience Greece.
As I sit hear and listen to the boarding call, I decided to catch up on some email, and just realized that we were supposed to verify our accommodations 24 hours in advance which we didn't do. Oh my. I really hope we don't arrive in Athens with no place to stay. With that, its off to seat 17B as they announce the final boarding call. Eeeeeek!!!
OH MY LORD!!! This place is absolutely breath-taking!!! and we haven't even gotten to the real beauty yet. I want to stay in Athens for another few days as it is simply that amazing and laid back. A nice breath of fresh air.
We did not arrive until 1700, so the only thing we really had time for was to walk around our hostel and hike up to the Partheon, which is my favorite site at this point in the trip. I could've sat and stared at it's beauty for hours. Take a look...
We had a traditional Mediterranean dinner, some wine, and a few moments to take it all in. The people here are so hospitable and happy. One random thing I noticed: there are a ton of wild dogs and cats roaming the streets. They are everywhere!!
As far a Syntagma Square and the violence goes, I have seen nothing, heard nothing, and according to the Greeks, there has been nothing. That is just CNN exaggerating the issue as they say. I am so thankful that we ignored the naysayers and came to Greece. It is my favorite stop thus far. It is also the first time I truly feel like I am in a foreign country. The Greek alphabet consists of symbols and letters, which made the one hour bus ride exciting, yet uneasy. We had no idea where we were the entire duration while we put full trust in complete strangers, who 'kind of' understood English, hoping they were guiding us in the correct direction. All of the 'what ifs' and hopes led us directly to our destination. Sometimes you just have to believe that people are genuinely good people and want to help out a stranger. This is a case of just that.
We ended the evening with a beer and shot (as this seems to be the European way) on the rooftop bar at our hostel. With a view like this, can you blame me for wanting to stay a bit longer???
0500 wake up call tomorrow and it's off to Santorini we go!! eeeeeekkkk!!! I am so excited.
I have not learned any Greek words yet, but Athens is
1) Romantic
2) Inviting
3) Cozy
4) A return visit is a MUST
