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The sun always shines with its comforting warmth, the beaches bask in its bright glow and the people are so tan they appear almost golden.

PAROS, GREECE

Dave
2004-02-22 14:05:32

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top, climbs rather steeply and then meanders on a high ridge until the final push to the summit. There is a noticeable difference in temperature up here compared to the balmy breezes of the ocean front. Often it is a bit windy up and and can get cold even during the middle of the day in the middle of the summer months.

Parikia is the hub of Paros. The landmark that you first see when entering its bay is the large whitewashed windmill that stands next to the arrival and departure area for the ferries. Its thatched roof seemed to be in a state of decay and its large windmill was just a skeleton. Usually there are several large cloths that are draped over the wood supports.

Parikia is a quaint town with many shops, restaurants, and attractions. There are many whitewashed buildings often several stories high. The streets are welcoming and very narrow. Above you will be a mix of trellises and arches, often covered with bougainvillea or other vined plants. There are many shops selling local arts, crafts, clothes, and other touristy items. The streets become alive in the mid mornings and especially in the evenings. You are lucky to spot even a dog in the streets during the afternoons. Everyone closes up shop and brings all their wares from the street into their shop.

Parikia is the main town on Paros for nightclubs and night time entertainment. Most of the clubs do not open until 11pm or 12am and they stay open until the wee hours of the morning often until 6 or 7am. The clubs get quite crazy but especially so during World Cup Soccer season.

An Internet Cafe called "The Wired Cafe" is located on Market Street which is the main street in the city and is located several blocks from the water front. Have someone give you exact directions to the cafe, because it is easy to get lost in the maze of streets or even walk right by it as I did on several occasions. Here are a few prices for usage at this cafe. Say "hi" to Nicolas, the owner for me.

Internet Usage Cost:

20 minutes: 600 drachma

45 minutes: 1,200 drachma

95 minutes: 2,400 drachma

200 minutes: 4,800 drachma

Scanning: FREE - take photos and send them to your loved ones around the world as you are traveling! OR bring that digital camera and send file attachments. That way you can keep loved ones quite up to date about your adventures in Paros and Parikia.

Printing Cost:

Printing: 100 drachmas per page

Website:
www.parosweb.com/wiredcafe/index.html
From the website you can view live photos, review prices and my favorite... send gorgeous e-photo postcards taken of scenes in and around Parikia to friends via email.

The Church of the 100 Gates is a wonderful building built of Parian marble. So far 99 doors have been counted in this church. Legend has it that when the 100th door is found, Istanbul will return to Greece. There are long pants and long sleeve shirts available outside the entrance for those who are wearing beach attire.

The Archaeological Museum is located right behind the church. They have some interesting marble statues on display and also a piece of a chronicle from the 3rd century. The museum is open every day except Monday. They are open from 9am until 3pm. Admission is 600 drachmas.

There is a post office located just north of the road from Parikia to the other side of the island and Logaras. It is located on the waterfront.

There are about 3 or 4 ATM's located in Parikia. Bring several cards or a reasonable amount of cash to last the duration of your stay. I found the success rate of actually getting money from these ATM's on the lower side of 50%.