After 43 years we are returning to Athens. Still backpackers, after a fashion. My memories are never clear but I do remember we investigated every archeological site methodically and enthusiastically with a Greek Blue Guide. Today was just a stopover and catch up on sleep day, so not a heavy tourist itinerary. Impressions : yes, Athens does seem rundown, broken pavements, smelling drains and graffiti but it does still have charm. We were staying in central Athens in the Plaka where there is plenty of life and goodwill - relaxed, no pushy vendors, as much greenery as they can plant in an urban environment and lots of lovely music, often wafting from a small square, from a doorway. Restaurants and cafes galore catering for the thousands of hot and tired tourists. An intimate area with so much to fascinate, educate and entertain.
We arrived at sunrise, 6am, and it was already 29oC.
We took a public airport bus to Syntagma Square. 6€ for the 45 minute journey.We were not disappointed with our welcome. The guards are still on duty at Parliament House and protecting the tomb of the unknown soldier.
We climbed the steps towards our guesthouse, which is just below the Acropolis.
A simple, clean en-suite room, quiet, equipped with a large fan but no views unfortunately. 50€.
Cafes, situated a few metres away from the guesthouse, lining the steps. We had a cool drink, pistachio milkshake for me, of course, and planned our day.
Greek souvenir stalls
Tourist central. Quite a few American high school groups on summer holiday tours.
Something for everyone
I’d forgotten about all the small Byzantine chapels spread through the shopping precinct, some now tucked in the archway of a large hotel.
Exquisite icons
But the winner every time is the Acropolis and the Agora on the lower slopes. Such a fabulous legacy the Ancient Greeks have left the city. Although it was so hot today the site was closed at 1pm. A big climb for tourists to just get to the entrance.
Archaeological dig for one of the Agora sites
Obviously music holds a special place for this community
A shady restaurant for lunch
Why not start the holiday with kalamari and deliciously dressed salad.
Tomorrow we catch the ferry to Crete!
M&M
No comments:
Post a Comment