Man I slept hard last night! We got up about 8 to make it down for breakfast and to the Acropolis before it became too hot.
We buy our tickets and make our way up the hill... That's one thing about Greece you always seem to be going uphill and the steps are just wide enough to wear you have to step fully on each before going up to the next. Anyways, we stopped and took some breath taking photos from lookout points and continued up to the Parthenon. I'm not going to lie instead of paying for my own tour guide, I would occasionally just stop and listen to a guide talking about the history or significance of different structures. It is crazy to think that this is where it all started, that this is where the start of democracy started. We got separated, but after making our way around the top of the acropolis, we found each other at the exit. Found a lion, poor thing had lost part of its face after all these years- wont be sending that one to the aglai.
We decided to follow the people and they led us to a hill that was important for something I am sure of, but to be honest have no idea. We do have a picture in front of it, our trade off for taking some fellow American's photo. We then decided to skip the mass of children on the path up the hill and went down the other path- fail. This started what seemed to be an hour walk searching for the museum. After finally finding it, it was 100 yards past the mass of school children. The lead up to the brand new museum was very modern. The building design and the openings that one could walk across showing archeological finds. It's a bit daunting, but I am a history nerd and enjoyed seeing them. We went inside with the impression that the ticket purchased that morning allowed us entrance into the museum, nope that would be another €12. No thanks. So we perused the gift show, found a book for Nini and decided to head back to a cafe for lunch. After lunch we walked the across from the cafe for some gifts to take back. Man did we hit the jackpot, we all found things ;for family and friends, but one of the show was a specialty food store and with wonderful organic local delicacies.
After we had our full of shopping we dropped our findings off and headed out to find Kendra some clothes since her luggage still hasn't arrived. Man alive I could of spent the rest of my money in some of the stores. After living in Stpehenville for four years, finding stores that aren't walmart, Jcp, or rue21, one tends to go a little crazy. I was good and denied myself buying a fedora which looked amazing, might I add. Once Kendra's shopping was done we rode the Happy Train, yeah I know, interesting name for a "train" that back home would be more likely found at a kids carnival then on the streets of Athens. I swear if I had put my hand (not even arm, just hand) out of the open car I would of had my had taken off by the car next to us.
We skipped out early off the happy bus when we found it stopped by the shops we were at earlier that day and found this quaint authentic homes rule Greek restaurant. Musaca and the fresh fried calamari was amazing, I am going to have to learn how to make it back home. They also had this Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic and olive oil dip that is so good you want to put it on everything.
After dinner we returned to the patio upstairs our hostel and took a shot of usuo- disgusting! It taste like black liquorish, the only positive is I can say I tried it, but man it's awful.
The trip is going pretty well, there have been a couple squabbles but three girls that have had a lack I sleep is bound to find some issues. Well it's time for bed, we have to be at the pier at 6:30 aka leave at 6am.
Until next time, night!
Sunday, June 10, 2012
Sailing Santorini
What a day! That was so worth the €30 I'm surprised for everything it included that it didn't cost more. The cruise included a hike up an active volcano with explanation of the islands history, swimming in a hot spring, lunch on a little island that only inhabits 250 people, a donkey ride up from the dock to the picturesk Oia and was ended boften best sunset I've ever seen out over the ocean.
All of it was amazing and the only slight complain besides the fact that we are going to have amazing legs ad butts with all this walking and stairs we keep doing is that the sulfer turned the inside of my swimsuit brown. The experience was worth my year old swimsuit turning a little brown though. Oia, is what you picture from the movies when you think Greece. White walled buildings with blue roofs and colorful gates and doors, all of which seem to sit on, next on top of one another. I would love to go back on my honeymoon to Oia (e-ah), and just air on a lounge chair and enjoy the amazing views or explore the city and all it's galleries and shops. We etched the sunset from a cafe/ swimming pool- odd but ingenious if you think about it, especially when their view is one of the best in the city and even the island for that matter.
A bus took us back home, and man the drives are crazy here! Between people almost backing up into us or trying to turn this tour bus into a tiny little street, it somehow all works. I never saw cops or speed limit signs, so I guess them all being bold drivers works.
Once back we paid for our nights, super cheap might I add and headed back to the room to shower and sleep. Our flight leaves at 7 in the morning, meaning we have to be up at 4:45 to pack and get to the airport.
Until tomorrow, good night!
All of it was amazing and the only slight complain besides the fact that we are going to have amazing legs ad butts with all this walking and stairs we keep doing is that the sulfer turned the inside of my swimsuit brown. The experience was worth my year old swimsuit turning a little brown though. Oia, is what you picture from the movies when you think Greece. White walled buildings with blue roofs and colorful gates and doors, all of which seem to sit on, next on top of one another. I would love to go back on my honeymoon to Oia (e-ah), and just air on a lounge chair and enjoy the amazing views or explore the city and all it's galleries and shops. We etched the sunset from a cafe/ swimming pool- odd but ingenious if you think about it, especially when their view is one of the best in the city and even the island for that matter.
A bus took us back home, and man the drives are crazy here! Between people almost backing up into us or trying to turn this tour bus into a tiny little street, it somehow all works. I never saw cops or speed limit signs, so I guess them all being bold drivers works.
Once back we paid for our nights, super cheap might I add and headed back to the room to shower and sleep. Our flight leaves at 7 in the morning, meaning we have to be up at 4:45 to pack and get to the airport.
Until tomorrow, good night!
Santorini
Well because we missed getting bus tickets last night, we ended up having to take a taxi, but that surprisingly went really well and only cost us €3 a piece not the €15 the guide books and scared us with. Once boarded I doud my way to the coffee bar and met a girl who had been on an EFC tour and decided to stay an extra month and experience the islands. Man I wish I had the money to spend a month traveling the islands after having spent three weeks traveling Europe.
Unloading from the boat was rediculous! We luckily found Stelios very quickly and easily and made our way to our hotel, Stelios Place. Wow, is the best way to describe the hotel. You come up the drive and find two little villas with a swimming pool connecting the two. Katarina greets us and after dropping our belongings in the room and head to the beach. The black sand was pretty, but because it comes from volcanos is full of little rocks and man was the sand hot! We found some lounge chairs under a tiki looking umbrella and spent an hour just relaxing and enjoying the sun. We decided to grab lunch and spent the rest of the afternoon lounging and hanging out at the bar talking with the Romanian bartender about what it is like to live and work here 7 days a week, 7 months a year. He said you get used to it and the days just all run together there is no Monday or Friday it's just all another day to him.
That night we got cleaned up and headed back to a place we had seen earlier and had promised the host we would come back to later. He was surprised to see us, guess most people must tell him "later." After dinner we headed back to the hotel to chill and post pictures to Facebook, which is all we hear from the people back home.
Tomorrow we are going sailing around the island, so it's time for this girl to get some sleep.
Until tomorrow!
Unloading from the boat was rediculous! We luckily found Stelios very quickly and easily and made our way to our hotel, Stelios Place. Wow, is the best way to describe the hotel. You come up the drive and find two little villas with a swimming pool connecting the two. Katarina greets us and after dropping our belongings in the room and head to the beach. The black sand was pretty, but because it comes from volcanos is full of little rocks and man was the sand hot! We found some lounge chairs under a tiki looking umbrella and spent an hour just relaxing and enjoying the sun. We decided to grab lunch and spent the rest of the afternoon lounging and hanging out at the bar talking with the Romanian bartender about what it is like to live and work here 7 days a week, 7 months a year. He said you get used to it and the days just all run together there is no Monday or Friday it's just all another day to him.
That night we got cleaned up and headed back to a place we had seen earlier and had promised the host we would come back to later. He was surprised to see us, guess most people must tell him "later." After dinner we headed back to the hotel to chill and post pictures to Facebook, which is all we hear from the people back home.
Tomorrow we are going sailing around the island, so it's time for this girl to get some sleep.
Until tomorrow!
Athens Day Two
Man I slept hard last night! We got up about 8 to make it down for breakfast and to the Acropolis before it became too hot.
We buy our tickets and make our way up the hill... That's one thing about Greece you always seem to be going uphill and the steps are just wide enough to wear you have to step fully on each before going up to the next. Anyways, we stopped and took some breath taking photos from lookout points and continued up to the Parthenon. I'm not going to lie instead of paying for my own tour guide, I would occasionally just stop and listen to a guide talking about the history or significance of different structures. It is crazy to think that this is where it all started, that this is where the start of democracy started. We got separated, but after making our way around the top of the acropolis, we found each other at the exit. Found a lion, poor thing had lost part of its face after all these years- wont be sending that one to the aglai.
We decided to follow the people and they led us to a hill that was important for something I am sure of, but to be honest have no idea. We do have a picture in front of it, our trade off for taking some fellow American's photo. We then decided to skip the mass of children on the path up the hill and went down the other path- fail. This started what seemed to be an hour walk searching for the museum. After finally finding it, it was 100 yards past the mass of school children. The lead up to the brand new museum was very modern. The building design and the openings that one could walk across showing archeological finds. It's a bit daunting, but I am a history nerd and enjoyed seeing them. We went inside with the impression that the ticket purchased that morning allowed us entrance into the museum, nope that would be another €12. No thanks. So we perused the gift show, found a book for Nini and decided to head back to a cafe for lunch. After lunch we walked the across from the cafe for some gifts to take back. Man did we hit the jackpot, we all found things ;for family and friends, but one of the show was a specialty food store and with wonderful organic local delicacies.
After we had our full of shopping we dropped our findings off and headed out to find Kendra some clothes since her luggage still hasn't arrived. Man alive I could of spent the rest of my money in some of the stores. After living in Stpehenville for four years, finding stores that aren't walmart, Jcp, or rue21, one tends to go a little crazy. I was good and denied myself buying a fedora which looked amazing, might I add. Once Kendra's shopping was done we rode the Happy Train, yeah I know, interesting name for a "train" that back home would be more likely found at a kids carnival then on the streets of Athens. I swear if I had put my hand (not even arm, just hand) out of the open car I would of had my had taken off by the car next to us.
We skipped out early off the happy bus when we found it stopped by the shops we were at earlier that day and found this quaint authentic homes rule Greek restaurant. Musaca and the fresh fried calamari was amazing, I am going to have to learn how to make it back home. They also had this Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic and olive oil dip that is so good you want to put it on everything.
After dinner we returned to the patio upstairs our hostel and took a shot of usuo- disgusting! It taste like black liquorish, the only positive is I can say I tried it, but man it's awful.
The trip is going pretty well, there have been a couple squabbles but three girls that have had a lack I sleep is bound to find some issues. Well it's time for bed, we have to be at the pier at 6:30 aka leave at 6am.
Until next time, night!
We buy our tickets and make our way up the hill... That's one thing about Greece you always seem to be going uphill and the steps are just wide enough to wear you have to step fully on each before going up to the next. Anyways, we stopped and took some breath taking photos from lookout points and continued up to the Parthenon. I'm not going to lie instead of paying for my own tour guide, I would occasionally just stop and listen to a guide talking about the history or significance of different structures. It is crazy to think that this is where it all started, that this is where the start of democracy started. We got separated, but after making our way around the top of the acropolis, we found each other at the exit. Found a lion, poor thing had lost part of its face after all these years- wont be sending that one to the aglai.
We decided to follow the people and they led us to a hill that was important for something I am sure of, but to be honest have no idea. We do have a picture in front of it, our trade off for taking some fellow American's photo. We then decided to skip the mass of children on the path up the hill and went down the other path- fail. This started what seemed to be an hour walk searching for the museum. After finally finding it, it was 100 yards past the mass of school children. The lead up to the brand new museum was very modern. The building design and the openings that one could walk across showing archeological finds. It's a bit daunting, but I am a history nerd and enjoyed seeing them. We went inside with the impression that the ticket purchased that morning allowed us entrance into the museum, nope that would be another €12. No thanks. So we perused the gift show, found a book for Nini and decided to head back to a cafe for lunch. After lunch we walked the across from the cafe for some gifts to take back. Man did we hit the jackpot, we all found things ;for family and friends, but one of the show was a specialty food store and with wonderful organic local delicacies.
After we had our full of shopping we dropped our findings off and headed out to find Kendra some clothes since her luggage still hasn't arrived. Man alive I could of spent the rest of my money in some of the stores. After living in Stpehenville for four years, finding stores that aren't walmart, Jcp, or rue21, one tends to go a little crazy. I was good and denied myself buying a fedora which looked amazing, might I add. Once Kendra's shopping was done we rode the Happy Train, yeah I know, interesting name for a "train" that back home would be more likely found at a kids carnival then on the streets of Athens. I swear if I had put my hand (not even arm, just hand) out of the open car I would of had my had taken off by the car next to us.
We skipped out early off the happy bus when we found it stopped by the shops we were at earlier that day and found this quaint authentic homes rule Greek restaurant. Musaca and the fresh fried calamari was amazing, I am going to have to learn how to make it back home. They also had this Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic and olive oil dip that is so good you want to put it on everything.
After dinner we returned to the patio upstairs our hostel and took a shot of usuo- disgusting! It taste like black liquorish, the only positive is I can say I tried it, but man it's awful.
The trip is going pretty well, there have been a couple squabbles but three girls that have had a lack I sleep is bound to find some issues. Well it's time for bed, we have to be at the pier at 6:30 aka leave at 6am.
Until next time, night!
Hello Athens
We finally made if to Athens, that isnt to say our trip was enjoyable. Our layover in Germany was awful. We deboard the plane to go claim our luggage, and of course because she hasn't had enough luggage problems, Kendra's wasn't there. So in our hour layover we go searching for the lost luggage kiosk so kendra can do a lost report. After that huge ordeal we have to go stand in line to go through customs only to go back through security, recheck Gina and mines luggage and reach out gate just as they are starting to board the plane. Thank God we got out of that city!
We arrive in Athens that afternoon and after two train rides we walk up the stairs a block up the street and have finally reached our hostel. Athens Backpacker, my first hostel ever, surprised me with cleanliness, amenities and friendly staff. The man t the desk who is an ex southerner who traded in the beaches of South Carolina for a life in Athens with his beautiful Greek wife 7 years ago. He said, you know the movie My Big Fat Greek Wedding? Yeah. I lived that, it really was that loud and crazy. So after talking with Chris, we carried our luggage a flight up the spiral staircase to our room. Clean and a balcony, was this real life? After deciding that 5 more minutes in the room and we would all be passes out we slowly made our way up 5 more spiral flights to the rooftop deck. Man was it worth it, the view of the acropolis was gorgeous and we met Chris and Alexis who were backpackers from Colorado. We sat up there talking and enjoying an umbrella drink for hours. Having missed dinner by a couple hours we decided to go in search of smiles, a renowned gyro shop. So delicious! After sitting and talking for over and hour we made it back to our rooms for a semi early bed- 10:45, but we had been traveling since 8am the morning before. Until tomorrow, good night!
We arrive in Athens that afternoon and after two train rides we walk up the stairs a block up the street and have finally reached our hostel. Athens Backpacker, my first hostel ever, surprised me with cleanliness, amenities and friendly staff. The man t the desk who is an ex southerner who traded in the beaches of South Carolina for a life in Athens with his beautiful Greek wife 7 years ago. He said, you know the movie My Big Fat Greek Wedding? Yeah. I lived that, it really was that loud and crazy. So after talking with Chris, we carried our luggage a flight up the spiral staircase to our room. Clean and a balcony, was this real life? After deciding that 5 more minutes in the room and we would all be passes out we slowly made our way up 5 more spiral flights to the rooftop deck. Man was it worth it, the view of the acropolis was gorgeous and we met Chris and Alexis who were backpackers from Colorado. We sat up there talking and enjoying an umbrella drink for hours. Having missed dinner by a couple hours we decided to go in search of smiles, a renowned gyro shop. So delicious! After sitting and talking for over and hour we made it back to our rooms for a semi early bed- 10:45, but we had been traveling since 8am the morning before. Until tomorrow, good night!
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
First Stop NYC
We get in, the flights wasn't too bad, but what came after is compared to a stupid humor movie where anything that can go wrong does, but in the end we get there in one piece. We first have to travel 45min into the city to get a rail ticket for our commute through Europe. After having multiple directions offered from very nice New Yorker, we finally got to the building we were looking for. It was the first time I ever had to be buzzed in. Have to say I was slightly excited though, felt very New York. We finally get back, after spending over $20 on subway passes mind you.
It was now on to getting Kendra her boarding pass. After going or 4 different lines standing for 10 min at least in each, we finally had everything sorted out and cut the line to get through security. Gina and I go through the line without complications and of course because American Airlines hasn't given us enough crappy service she gets a bag check and get hair products confiscated. After some serious smoosing by yours truly, her bag was returned hair products in tact!. I feel very talented and am thankful for my sales skills- maybe I did learn something in school??
As we wait at the gate, we meet with some Illinois students going on an exchange trip to Germany and can't help but think of Frau and all the trips she led. If I was ever a teacher I would certainly do study abroad trips with my students, it's such an awesome opportunity that not nearly enough people take part in.
Well we are about to board, so until next time!
It was now on to getting Kendra her boarding pass. After going or 4 different lines standing for 10 min at least in each, we finally had everything sorted out and cut the line to get through security. Gina and I go through the line without complications and of course because American Airlines hasn't given us enough crappy service she gets a bag check and get hair products confiscated. After some serious smoosing by yours truly, her bag was returned hair products in tact!. I feel very talented and am thankful for my sales skills- maybe I did learn something in school??
As we wait at the gate, we meet with some Illinois students going on an exchange trip to Germany and can't help but think of Frau and all the trips she led. If I was ever a teacher I would certainly do study abroad trips with my students, it's such an awesome opportunity that not nearly enough people take part in.
Well we are about to board, so until next time!
Monday, June 4, 2012
Pack, pack, pack
After packing and unpacking my 28 inch upright 4 times I can successfully say I am ready to go! 
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