GREECE

Do you remember the 2004 Olympics that was held in Athens, Greece? Knowing how crowded it would be, my thoughts were to go to Greece and the Greek Islands later. Thinking, 2008 might be a better time. It should be noted that around 2003, a small travel guide to Athens, Greece was purchased.

Here it is in the middle of 2022 and Greece is still on my travel and tour destinations list. Or, you could call it my bucket list. Unfortunately, my passport expired before the Pandemic. As yet, it hasn't been renewed. It needs to be renewed and that is on my to-do list!

Why Greece? Having been to Egypt, Rome, Italy, Athens, and the Greek Islands seems like logical travel destinations. Ancient civilizations in modern times seem to transcend past, present, and future. Besides, there are some great sights, museums, Greek food to try, and islands to explore in Greece.

In the 7th grade, we studied world history. What I most remember about the class was the Greek gods and goddesses and the Parthenon on the Acropolis.

Why the Parthenon? Because of the world history class, I most definitely have to see the Parthenon! It's not a want. I have to. On top of a hill overlooking Athens, is the Acropolis with the Parthenon which is an impressive sight day or night. Besides the Parthenon, there are other buildings to see and explore on the Acropolis, including the Temple of Athena Nike which was restored in the 19th century, the Acropolis Study Center, which is a museum dedicated to the history of the Acropolis, and the Propylaia on the left side of the Parthenon was the original monumental ceremonial gateway.

Obviously, the National Archeological Museum would be on my list of sights to see. According to what I have read, it's considered one of the world's greatest museums. The National Archeological Museum is ranked highly among other museums that I have toured and loved; such as the Louvre in Paris and the British Museum in the UK.

While the Acropolis is on a hill, the highest hill in Athens is the Lykabettos Hill. As the highest hill in Athens, I would definitely allow a day or two to visit Lykabettos. Why? It's the view. The panoramic view of Athens and you can see offshore islands in the Saronic Gulf. For the adventurous, the ride on the Funicular to the very top appeals to me. Can imagine sitting on top of the hill with my beverage of choice taking in the lights of the metropolis laid out before me.

According to what I've read, the Funicular stays open until 10 P.M. Definitely, a day visit or two to enjoy the butterflies, wild tortoises, and did I mention the panoramic view.

Saying that I love museums is an understatement, there are several museums on my must-see list; such as the Museum of Greek Folk Art, Museum of Greek Musical Instruments, and Museum of Cycladic Arts. One of the reasons why I don't like going on a guided tour and the tour groups they never give you enough time to really see and experience the ambiance, art, and history. One should never be rushed through like a herd of cattle.

Why the Olympic Stadium? Going to Greece and not seeing the Olympic Stadium, would be like going to Rome, Italy, and not seeing the Vatican. A revival of the Olympic games was held in the Olympic Stadium that was built in 1896. The stadium makes for a quick visit and photo op. The curved stadium reminds me of a horseshoe. With three sides of seating, the fourth side is open providing a spectacular view of Athens.

After sightseeing, strolling through a market or bazaars, and seeing the Byzantine Churches of Athens, I am sure there will be memorable food and drink that await my future trip to Greece and the islands.

From reading my AAA Essential Athens, the tourists eat dinner/supper early (7 PM), and the locals eat late at 9 PM or 10 PM. Also, if you like hot food, you should eat early or order something that has to be freshly made. Keeping in mind, the daily specials are made early in the day and might be lukewarm later.

Being on a restrictive diet, food and travel are doable. It requires more time and planning. A Greek salad, a gyro (without bread), and lobster are some of the foods to look forward to.

Yet, there is the matter of renewing my passport. Athens Greece and the islands are on my travel destination list. One of these days, I'll make it there.