Travel Journal: Greece

n early August my fiancé and I embarked on a week-long adventure to Greece - perhaps one of the nicest places we have ever been. The beaches were beautiful, the food was amazing, and the vacation itself was perhaps our best yet. We arrived in Athens late on a Saturday night and caught the 1AM ferry to the island of Paros. Amongst thousands of other travelers aboard the sleeper ferry, we were fortunate to enjoy a peaceful ride across the Aegean Sea, as we slept soundly in our tiny, yet private, sleeper cabin.  We woke early the next morning and worked our way up to the top deck, skipping over the hundreds of travelers who spent the night sleeping on scattered carpets.  Rested, eager and bundled, we watched the sun rise over the Greek isle as we pulled into port- what an amazing way to start our vacation! 

Paros was the perfect island choice, encompassing all the aspects we were hoping for in our getaway: great beaches but not too touristy, a night time buzz minus the spring break type travelers and an island big enough to explore while quaint enough to find tranquility.  As we left the port on Sunday morning, weaving our way across the inner workings of the island towards our hotel, the cab driver explained to us that approximately 80% of the tourists visiting Paros each summer are Greek; therefore the Greek atmosphere of the island was enhanced, rather than subdued by foreigners.

Each day was spent relaxing on the beach alongside the other visiting travelers.  We made small talk with some, but mostly kept to ourselves enjoying our time together.  Beyond lazing on the beach, we rented a moped one day to explore our island further, as well as AntiParos, the sister island sitting just 3 minutes away by ferry.  Each area of the island was unique but equally nice.  The people were friendly and out going from one village to the next, and the restaurants, although offering similar menus, were phenomenal!

As always, our trip went by far too fast and we found ourselves back on a ferry heading for Athens on Friday afternoon, this time we took the daytime high speed ferry. We arrived mid day, giving us ample time to explore the Acropolis, Temple of Zeus, Parliament Building and of course, simply wander the streets of Athens. The history encapsulated into such a small area inside the city was amazing; it’s a wonder to think that for those who live in Athens, the Parthenon is a daily part of life as it hovers up above the city center. 

Our hotel conveniently located, sat directly in between the Acropolis and the Temple of Zeus.  Our final evening in Greece was spent at the hotel roof garden, sitting in the best seat in the house.  Placed at a corner table which captured views of both attractions, we caught a final glimpse of the illuminated Greek history and reflected on our past days.  Although it was hard to say good bye to Greece, I can't imagine a better way to end the holiday. Truly magnificent...