Day 95–April 10–Athens, Greece

We were only docked in Athens for a very short day and on top of that I overslept (much needed sleep, mind you); nevertheless I got a late start for me.  My plan was to catch the metro from our port city of Piraeus into Athens.  It wasn’t quite as easily accomplished as our tour guide told us it would be but I made it and on the way I met a nice couple who were also heading into Athens and asked me to join them.

Upon arriving in Athens, we decided to take the “Hop on, Hop off” Bus in order to maximize the time that we had.  Our main objective was to walk the many steps up to the Acropolis and this we did with thousands of other tourists from all over the world, a little chaotic but manageable, except now I’m beginning to encounter some very pushy people who don’t even seem to notice others and just bully themselves up front wherever there is a view or a queue involved.

  The Parathion

As you can see it was a beautiful day.

  Where’s Julia now??

Please notice my new Turkish bag which is over my shoulder.  A purchase that I will treasure.

  The Caryatides

Six statures of Grecian Women, I know that must represent some virtues but I can’t recall what they are at this moment.  Anybody out there know??

  Potted Plants on a balcony

Athens was so beautiful with so many flowers and plants in bloom.  We are now beginning to see orange and lemon trees.

  The Acropolis seen through one of the many gates that surround it.

  Pat and Jim, my travel companions for the day.  They are from Florida.  In the background is the restaurant that we had lunch at, as we watched the Athenians stroll by us.

  Pigeons in a store.  I’m guessing this is pretty common because nobody seemed at all upset.  I bought some olive oil and olive oil soap here.  Good Bargains.  My skin now will be so soft.

I enjoyed Athens, it’s a city that’s very energetic and busy but you can see how the country’s economic problems have affected their citizens and this city.