I’m so glad we were in Athens last February.
We had empty galleries and unobstructed views of antiquity. At that time our retail experiences weren’t reminiscent of Filene’s basement. And we could actually stroll (and not be shoved, or have to bob-and-weave) down the meandering ancient streets of Plaka.
Acropolis, Parthenon and Meteora remain untouched, but (although we thought the masses would have thinned by now), the number of visitors has grown. No wonder; the weather in October is fabulous!
Check out the people standing precariously under the flag (below); despite warnings to keep away from the edge. It always surprises me when folks don’t follow the rules, even when they are in someone else’s country and at their own risk.
Some things haven’t changed
What also hasn’t changed are the pealing bells of Orthodox churches, abundant Grecian hospitality (see hotel staff below), and the always flavorful food – taste of sun and sea.
Athens is hip, surprising, and very cosmopolitan. A duo of serenading musicians stood outside our window singing “Besame Mucho”. Tonight, we ate Italian and finished off a bottle of Châteauneuf-du-Pape.
So far, the bubble remains unbroken.