…continued from Penang ‘2’
ATHENS
Although Greece would probably be visited someday, it became now due to lack of direct flights from Penang, Malaysia to our destination of Cyprus. Stopping over in Athens for a few hours did not seem fitting for this remarkable location so a week was booked in a modest hotel. In this case, modest was in a cramped, noisy, run-down neighborhood. Not modest was the hotel’s inclusive breakfast which we lingered over every morning.
Athens hotel – pleasant entry
View from balcony across the narrow street
Quiet on a Sunday morning
Not quiet every other day
Shopping nearby
Neighborhood church/feed pigeons
Venturing onto Athens’ crowded streets exemplified the country’s long term down-trodden economy. In addition to the chaotic crush of locals and foreigners is the distressing presence of migrant beggars.
Without any signs in English we surprised ourselves in finding the correct Metro train platform within the 2-level system. Thankfully Taxiplon, similar to Uber was called from hotel and took us to the Acropolis. Perched above well-kept grounds the ancient site moved me to tears looking upward upon approach. It was 10 AM in off-season with a moderate crowd in attendance; I imagined a large, overwhelming crowd in summer. For an unplanned visit to Athens, I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to go there.
Athens National Archaeological Museum
No need for words, here’s some photos…
Poseidon
Athena
Aphrodite
Mosaic of Medusa – thousands of pieces
Ancient Greek rain gutter drain
Sculptures even on roof!
Packing, Unpacking, Re-Packing…Unpacking, Re-Packing
We have traveled throughout the years with a variety of baggage—suitcases, roller-bags, computer bags, office file-bags, duffel bags, draw-string bags, large handbags, backpack, and even shopping bags. Sometimes we must buy new bags and/or eliminate old favorites to conform to a specific trip!
This was the case (pardon the pun) departing Penang where we had anticipated long term stay, and had collected ‘way too much to fly out with. A large roller-bag plus an (expensive) office file-bag were given away (along with a stack of clothing, bedding, household products). The load lightened but was far from satisfactory; remaining items were squeezed to the max in 2 roller-bags, a backpack, a computer bag, plus an assortment of hand-carried items—a shawl, a small pillow, an over-the-shoulder handbag, and of course, a grocery bag of snacks.
Arriving in Athens with too many ‘pieces’ meant that another bag of some sort must be purchased to streamline carriage. A large duffel bag was bought and our last 2 days in Athens had us packing, unpacking, re-packing, then unpacking and re-packing—however, Cyprus Air was boarded with no baggage worries—only backaches from packing, unpacking, etc., etc.
Plenty more on other side of room
Final word upon departing Athens: COFFEE
When in Rome, do as the Romans…when in Greece (or any European country) drink coffee! A wonderful social engagement, especially when done outdoors. There’s an awesome choice of beans on offer, selection of coffee supplier shops to choose from, and price range to buy a freshly ground, fragrant bag of caffeine heaven.
Athens – Mokka coffee supplier