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I had been in Greece no more than an hour and here I was already at a water-side café.
Greece and Turkey, September 1994
Dougburnett2003-11-22 11:11:32
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of the delightful cafes that line the pedestrian-only streets of Plaka, did some more visiting and then headed back to bed.
Early next morning - my last full day - I walked over to the main market. It's about 15 minutes away. This place is not on any tours. It's full of Athenians buying and selling everything from produce and meat to live chickens and clothing. If you like authentic sights check this place out. It's a beehive of activity in the morning.
Later, while making inquiries at the tourist office, I learned that the Acropolis would be open for a few hours for some Greek military celebration. I headed over and sure enough it was open - and better yet, free. I went up and mingled with the tourists that were lucky enough to hear about the opening. The place was in full of activity: politicians made speeches, military honor guards stood at attention and later, a group of Greeks marched up carrying flags and singing patriotic songs. The day was warm and the air crystal-clear - you could see all the way down to the port, Piraeus. Of all my visits to the Acropolis, this was one of the best.
Next, I caught a bus out to Cape Sounion to see the Greek temple located there. It's at the end of the Attica peninsula about two hours south of Athens. The bus travels along the coast and the farther you go, the more open - and beautiful - the land becomes. Near the end are small towns and tourist camps along the shore. Finally at the very end, the ancient temple dedicated to Poseidon - the god of the sea. There are a few standing columns that overlook the water and the spectacular view of the coast. The day was sunny, windy and cool - way too cool to hang out too long, so I jumped on the next bus back to Athens.
Next day, after a four-hour delay, my TWA flight finally left. While on my way I thought, sadly, no more sitting at water-side cafes, no more exploring ruins. Well, not for a while, anyway - but I'll be back. Somehow, despite the delay, I still managed to make my connection in New York and then home.
Copyright Doug Burnett
All rights reserved.
http://www.traveldoug.com
See photographs from:
Turkey Gallery
,
Greece Gallery
