9/17-Monday
We will be off to Gatwick airport (EasyJet) in about an hour. John is driving us there. We told him we could easily take a bus, but he insists on taking us. They have been so hospitable. We've had nice British style food and fun company. It has been a nice start to our trip.
The dollar doesn't go very far here (over $2 to the British Pound). For the amount of days we were here, we could have spent a great deal more than we have. I don't see how people can live well here.
We got into Athens about 10pm. and took the Metro, about an hour ride We got off at Thissio station. We had no idea which way to go once we got out on the street. Ended up under a street lamp, trying to orient ourselves on a map. There were lots of cafes with people enjoying the mild evening air in the area. Finally, Ray asked a waiter which way to go and we found the Phidias Hotel, just a couple of blocks up towards the Acropolis from the station. About 11:30pm we went out to find something to eat. A bit of a change for us to stay up so late.
Inadvertently, I discovered that Athens provides free wifi internet access to citizens and tourists. So, I am typing this in the hotel room, which is not the greatest, but the location is excellent. This very cool to be able to sit here and get messages out. I was afraid that I wouldn't find much use for this tablet.
Well, the day is getting warmer. Oh yes, this morning we went out for breakfast, paid 3.6 Euros (ca. $5.08) for 1 cup of coffee (no refills). When we got back to the hotel we found that they serve a continental breakfast. Oh well!
9/18---Athens
Walked up to the Pnyx Hill---the meeting place of the Athenian democratic assembly--- and the Aereopagus by the Acropolis, found the Plaka (the old district) on the north side of the Acropolis. Saw ruins of the Roman Agora and Hadrian’s library. Sat outside of Taverna to rest and have a cold beer and sandwich.
9/19---Athens
Walked around in several circles trying to find the Archaeological Museum, ca. 3 hours worth of walking. Did go through some interesting neighborhoods as well as middle of town, traffic and people.
Found the Titania Hotel where Heather’s parents were, but missed them.
