When I told people I was only visiting Athens, Greece. Many people told me they didn't like the city or to go see other places. My time there was short (I got very sick during my trip here and my sister had whatever bug I had a few days later on the flight home...unlikely the Corona Virus since that's been thrown out there) but I enjoyed my time in Athens, would like to visit again and visit some of the Islands on my next adventure in Greece. I was told it was dirty and unsafe. For the most part, I felt fine but wouldn't walk alone at night...although that's not a good idea anywhere. Many of the homeless people seemed to be refugees - heartbreaking. I also think people are wrong about not staying long in Athens. I think it also depends on what kind of traveler you are. In a rush to see as much as you can see or enjoy the place you are in and soak up the language, food, culture, etc. ?
Highlights
Visiting ancient ruins-The Acropolis is the area the Parthenon sits on. While here we saw the first lady of Israel, Sara Netanyahu. We read earlier that the Netanyahu family was visiting to work with the Greece government on a green energy deal. She was super low-key in jeans and a long black trench coat with security also acting very nonchalant.
The general idea of how old everything was mind-blowing like the Arch of Hadrian. A monumental gateway resembling a Roman triumphal arch.
Venturing out to watch the sunset over the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion. I got sick while visiting this ancient ruin, that was memorable getting sick in front of people ahhhh. The sunset was incredible but the winding roads to and from Athens did not help me feel less nauseous. The kindness of strangers is remarkable. Others could see I was not feeling well and offered me sea bands and cough drops as well as translating help at a pharmacy while I was in Greece.
Plaka district was great to find clothes and jewelry as well as eat a bite. I picked up a pretty summer dress (that I have yet to wear because I haven't been in a warm location yet since this past winter trip) as well as trendy leaf earrings.
The Jewish Museum of Greece was small and hidden from the street but very interesting to learn about, especially learning about the Greek population during the Holocaust.
Graffiti art, we took a tour and learned so much about the art scene here! Did you know the word graffiti comes from a Greek word? As a traveler, you can't stop to notice a large amount of graffiti on the buildings.
Monastiraki Square you can find many shops from soaps, sandals, leaf headbands (every tourist had one on), and other souvenirs. Many restaurants are here with Acropolis views.
The FOOD! I love spanakopita and thoroughly enjoyed having it here. It took some getting used to knowing that Greek salads I had come accustomed to in the States isn't how they eat in Greece. Not surprising and all the salads I did have were delicious. The gyros and skewered chicken were also a nice treat. Royal Souvlake was great for tasty affordable food. Hans and Gretel adorably decorated with sweet treats.
If you are like me and missing being there here are my top choices of media to listen/watch to bring back memories of Greece-
Mama Mia (truly a classic)
The Sister Head of the traveling pants (Basic)
Hercules (Aren't we all Disney fans?!)
Commenti