Greece 2008

My first time outside of the US....Greece and Italia!!!

I wish I had known then what I know now - Take LOTS of pictures and as many business cards or "tokens" of every spot visited (even if it's just a coffee shop)

Arriving in Athens Greece, I definitely felt like I was in a foreign country. I couldn't believe how clean the bathrooms were; especially in the airport! 

Once we got outside it was a shock to see all of the stray cats and dogs.They were everywhere (in fact, cabbie almost hit a dog @ a high speed taking us to the airport in Athens)









I cannot recommend a good hotel there because the one we were originally booked at (Hermes Hotel) had to move us to a different location due to overbooking. Here are some great things I did and saw in my 2 days in Athens:

Shop

I bought a beautiful and unique lightweight knit dress at:
Ioanna Kourbela
109 Adrianou and 12 Hatzimihali str. in Plaka 10558
Tel: 210 3224591

http://www.ioannakourbela.com/

Drink

Stumbled upon this place....a cute small bar with lots of wines and liqueurs. Friendly staff and great scenery.

Brettos
(located in Plaka)

41, Kidathineon Street

10558 Athens

Tel: +30 210 3232110

http://www.brettosplaka.com/index.php/

Eat

Dinner at both of these places were great - traditional Greek cuisine. What American's dont know is how to make a real Greek salad. Here's a hint: omit the lettuce. It's all about the cucumbers, green peppers and tomatoes...and of course feta. A Greek salad does not contain lettuce in Greece.

Daphne's  Restaurant
4, Lyssikratous Str., Plaka
Tel: +30 210 3227971
http://www.daphnesrestaurant.gr/en/

Epmeion (Hermion Restaurant)
15 Pandrossou (at 7 Mnissikleous), Plaka
Tel: 210 3247148
http://www.hermion.gr/en/
*Live music Thurs, Fri and Sat*

See

Acropolis (duh). Seriously though, if you only have a day this is the thing to do. I am somewhat ignorant of the history here but the pictures and being on site are amazing. It was $12 Euro when I went and be sure to hold on to your ticket until you leave. I believe they had to do something with it in order for you to leave.

Another thing to remember: lots of steps. It is a bit of a hike but most people are capable.

Steps and scaffolds at the Acropolis

 

  I would love to see a show here! 

Theatre of Dionysos

I just remembered, we had a view of the Acropolis from the hotel. Old camera didn't have great night zoom, but you get the picture :-)

Acropolis at night

A few words to know of the Greek language...

Please - parakalo (Par-a-call-o)

Yes - ne (Nay)

Thank You - sas efkharisto (Sass Eff-caristo)

No - okhi (Oh-yee)