loving Greece

Athens was fantastic.. even if big and dirty and smelly. Maybe that I only had one actual full day there contributed to my positive opinion!

The day after we did Hydra.. we joined the tourist masses and did the Acropolis. Totally amazing .. even if half of it is under scaffolding! They are cleaning and restoring the whole site and it is a somewhat painstaking and lengthy procedure. The Parthenon and other structures are truly awe-inspiring.. I only say 'other structures' because I never paid attention in social studies class and can't remember what they are called!

We spent an hour and a half-ish up there, with about a million cruise ship tourists (barf!), before heading off to find some food and wander the narrow streets of the Plaka. I found the Plaka largely tacky and touristy, loads of shops selling lots of mass-produced souvenirs and postcards, plus a lot of overpriced restaurants. We found some lunch just outside the Plaka, it's funny how the price dropped in half by being barely outside the tourist area.

After a few hours of chill out time at Mary/Robyn/Ceileigh's hotel and a trip out to find some gelato, I headed back for my hostel to get packed up.. we had a night tour that evening and I wouldn't be getting back until late and leaving very early. I hate it when inconsiderate hostel guests make tons of noise or turn on the lights when people are clearly sleeping, so I thought I should get myself ready outside of sleeping hours!

The night tour was a bit of a bust, although it was something to keep us occupied and show us around a little. The tour guide wasn't all that enthusiastic. The dinner and performance (dancing, music, etc) at the end of the trip was definitely the highlight of the evening.

After dinner/entertainment, we walked through the now dark streets of the Plaka, back towards the Acropolis to get some night time photos of the site. We said our goodbyes as I was heading off to the islands the following morning, and the girls were going to the Peloponnese .

Early morning was very difficult but I did manage to get myself to the port and onto the Blue Star ferry in time for the 725am departure! I had booked a nicer seat aboard the ferry which I was grateful for.. the deck or random chairs in public areas on the boat were the other options. Had a nice conversation with a fellow from Brisbane who was nice enough to share some photography tips, and some recommendations on things to do when one has a year in Australia!

Arrived in Hydra about 130pm where I was met by George, the owner of the Windmill Studios where I was staying. I got dropped at a small apartment, cute, clean, and best of all, super cheap! After a nap (that turned into a 4 hour sleep!) I headed out to find dinner.. found a little taverna (well, Greek mama that reminded me of a certain Greek mama in Sidney BC) beckoned me in, and I had some yummy chicken souvlaki (I *really* need to expand my Greek food palette), with Greek beer (Mythos) and dessert. The waiter even brought around a shot of something powerful to myself, the fellow at the neighbouring table and one for himself.. I love this place. Got chatting to the guy at the table beside me, we ended up going for a wander and another drink.. not what you think get your head out of the gutter! Finally got home around midnight.

So far today.. are you bored yet... I've done breakfast and have been in front of this computer for 2 hours. LOL. I'm off!