Sunday, May 31, 2009
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Day 17- Wed. May 27
Day 17 (Wednesday, May 27):
I am posting this blog entry because I have no more days – I see Abe today!! (Well, tomorrow, since technically today is still Monday).
Today's schdule:
4:30 am – leave Hotel Cecil
6:55 am – fly home !!
4:30 pm – land in Bozeman and embrace Abe!!!
5 pm Bozeman Time = 2 am Greek Time = Nicole eats and falls asleep!!
Hopefully there will be nothing else to add because my trip will be easy and smooth. I hope you all enjoyed my blog and my thoughts on the trip (i.e. I am being optimistic someone other than Abe ever read this). Once all the photos get up online, I will post a link and send out an email. Besos, Ciao, and I can't wait to see you all back in the States.
Love,
Nicole
I am posting this blog entry because I have no more days – I see Abe today!! (Well, tomorrow, since technically today is still Monday).
Today's schdule:
4:30 am – leave Hotel Cecil
6:55 am – fly home !!
4:30 pm – land in Bozeman and embrace Abe!!!
5 pm Bozeman Time = 2 am Greek Time = Nicole eats and falls asleep!!
Hopefully there will be nothing else to add because my trip will be easy and smooth. I hope you all enjoyed my blog and my thoughts on the trip (i.e. I am being optimistic someone other than Abe ever read this). Once all the photos get up online, I will post a link and send out an email. Besos, Ciao, and I can't wait to see you all back in the States.
Love,
Nicole
The “eventful” side of Sunday: Seeing poverty in the countryside, Immigrants in Greece, and beggars harrassing little girls
The “eventful” side of Sunday: Seeing poverty in the countryside, Immigrants in Greece, and beggars
This blog post is in response to a chat with Abe about how my day seemed “boring” or rather “uneventful.” That was just because yesterday (Sunday) I wrote mostly about the actual activities. Now, in the words of the immortal Abraham, will come the “Stuff of legends....” (or at least the more interesting and eventful parts). In short: On the bus ride from Delphi to Athens, I saw poverty stricken Indian workers scything wheat by hand. I also saw lots of literal shantytowns. All indian men were living together, and their wives and children in make believe houses. Tin sides, mismatched pieces of wood, low ceilings because the sides of the house were short, “houses” with posts but plastic or sheets for walls. From my observations, America is filled with people from all over the world. In Greece, it appears that the only people who have immigrated into the country are Indians (mostly males), and they do a lot of low level work, such as agriculture or hawking items on the street. Other “eventful” moments are yesterday were being harassed by an impertinent man, and having an interesting experience as Andy's wife was molested by a woman beggar trying to force balloons on us (and trade them for money, of course). Paula, Karen, the girls, Andy and I had all just gotten gyros for dinner and were sitting eating when this lady comes up and throws these two balloons on Karen. She is talking in Greek, but the jist is that she has a small daughter and is trying to sell the balloons. Karen made the mistake of not immediately returning the balloons, and listening first. When she tried to return them, at Andy's insistence, the woman refused to take them and kept getting more upset that we weren't paying her. Finally, once when Karen held out the balloons, a young boy came up and grabbed them! That got the lady pretty mad :) Anyway, after we kept ignoring her, she went away, but it was definitely akward. I found it ironic that the most we were molested by beggars and odd persons was when we had two little girls with us (they are 6 and 7). Finally, we were followed by a high (on drugs, that is) Pakistani man wanting money. He mumbled at us while we were eating gyros, then reappeared after we had gelato, mumbled for several minutes, then left. Luckily, I think the little girls are a little young to be too bothered by their scarring experiences, but I am sure it made Andy and Karen uncomfortable.
This blog post is in response to a chat with Abe about how my day seemed “boring” or rather “uneventful.” That was just because yesterday (Sunday) I wrote mostly about the actual activities. Now, in the words of the immortal Abraham, will come the “Stuff of legends....” (or at least the more interesting and eventful parts). In short: On the bus ride from Delphi to Athens, I saw poverty stricken Indian workers scything wheat by hand. I also saw lots of literal shantytowns. All indian men were living together, and their wives and children in make believe houses. Tin sides, mismatched pieces of wood, low ceilings because the sides of the house were short, “houses” with posts but plastic or sheets for walls. From my observations, America is filled with people from all over the world. In Greece, it appears that the only people who have immigrated into the country are Indians (mostly males), and they do a lot of low level work, such as agriculture or hawking items on the street. Other “eventful” moments are yesterday were being harassed by an impertinent man, and having an interesting experience as Andy's wife was molested by a woman beggar trying to force balloons on us (and trade them for money, of course). Paula, Karen, the girls, Andy and I had all just gotten gyros for dinner and were sitting eating when this lady comes up and throws these two balloons on Karen. She is talking in Greek, but the jist is that she has a small daughter and is trying to sell the balloons. Karen made the mistake of not immediately returning the balloons, and listening first. When she tried to return them, at Andy's insistence, the woman refused to take them and kept getting more upset that we weren't paying her. Finally, once when Karen held out the balloons, a young boy came up and grabbed them! That got the lady pretty mad :) Anyway, after we kept ignoring her, she went away, but it was definitely akward. I found it ironic that the most we were molested by beggars and odd persons was when we had two little girls with us (they are 6 and 7). Finally, we were followed by a high (on drugs, that is) Pakistani man wanting money. He mumbled at us while we were eating gyros, then reappeared after we had gelato, mumbled for several minutes, then left. Luckily, I think the little girls are a little young to be too bothered by their scarring experiences, but I am sure it made Andy and Karen uncomfortable.
Economic Explanation for the lack of plaques at ancient sites
Economic Explanation for the lack of plaques at ancient sites:
One thing that has been really interesting, and slightly frustrating, is the lack of explanatory plaques at the ancient sites. In the States, we often have plaques with descriptions or explanations and such at historic places (even if we don't read them :). Here, there was only one site (Mystras) where we had such plaques. Everywhere else – Athenian acropolis, agora, temples, sparta, nafplio, delphi, mycenaea, corinth, etc. – had no plaques. One possible explanation for this is the tour guides. Tour guides here are everywhere and with almost all groups. So, having tour guides would negate the necessity of having plaques (since they are explaining things). Also, the tour guides would have an incentive to NOT promote plaques, because having informative plaques would make tour guides less necessary. Any other thoughts??
One thing that has been really interesting, and slightly frustrating, is the lack of explanatory plaques at the ancient sites. In the States, we often have plaques with descriptions or explanations and such at historic places (even if we don't read them :). Here, there was only one site (Mystras) where we had such plaques. Everywhere else – Athenian acropolis, agora, temples, sparta, nafplio, delphi, mycenaea, corinth, etc. – had no plaques. One possible explanation for this is the tour guides. Tour guides here are everywhere and with almost all groups. So, having tour guides would negate the necessity of having plaques (since they are explaining things). Also, the tour guides would have an incentive to NOT promote plaques, because having informative plaques would make tour guides less necessary. Any other thoughts??
Day 16- Tues. May 26
Day 16 (Tuesday, May 26):
Today, Paula and I just get to hang out in Athens. This is our last day in Athens, and I leave for home tomorrow at 6:55 am local (Athenian) time. Today, we just took it easy. It wasn't great last night as I was overcome with cramps in my stomach, and our room is outside one of the world's loudest karaoke bars, so we didn't get a whole lot of sleep. And Paula and I are so excited to go home, it was hard to sleep anyway!
We stayed in late, and then had breakfast with Andy and his wife and their kids. Andy left to take a shower, but Paula and I enjoyed chatting with his wife Karen, who is soooo nice. We learned that apparently before this trip, Andy was nervous about it because he wasn't sure about spending two weeks in such close quarters with students! Apparently we are a little intimidating :)
Then Paula and I went out shopping. It was so nice to not be in a hurry and to be able to look at whatever, and just wander and browse. I got a book for the plane ride home on Greek Mythology, a beautiful horse statue to decorate our home with and remember Greece by, a glass ring, a soda, and a special gift for Abe, which I cannot reveal here or it would ruin the surprise.
Paula and I wandered all over: through the flea market, into many shops, and just had a good time saying “no” to all the persistent shopkeepers. He he, they are persistent, “Oh, just come in, come try something,” and the ever cheesy and inexplicably popular, “something pretty for the pretty lady.” Paula and I just roll our eyes.
For lunch, it was crepes. Its really, really neat to see them made. They use a little wooden stick with a mini-rolling pin on it to roll out the crepe batter on the large round skillet. Then they add whatever you want: all kinds of vegetables, cheese, meats, or nutella and sweets – anything! Then they fold in in half 3 times, and it becomes a GIANT sandwich type thing. Like a french burrito. I think a gyro is like a Greek taco (or burrito, I can't decide which one its more like). Then, thinking we were done, I finally found the perfect pair of sunglasses that I have been looking for. Its so sunny here that my dark brown ones aren't cutting it. So I found a very stylish pair of pitch black wraparounds that are “ooo-la-la.” I am quite pleased. And I also found a fanny pack for horse stuff. Yeah its cheesey, but it works great! (And you can never find them in the States).
And then there was a funny interlude of how I tried to go to a Greek bank to get different denominations of bills so it would be easier to pay the cab driver at 4:30 in the morning tomorrow. So I tried to enter the bank. You have to buzz in – twice. (There is a glass chamber in the middle where they examine if you look like a bank robber or not before letting you in). Then, after figuring that out and gaining entry to the inner sanctum, I was told they were already closed at 2:30 (it was 3pm), and I should go elsewhere. I just wanted to ask why they let me in if they were closed? Oh well.
Now, after a nap, I was hungry for dinner, but I didn't want to go spend any money. So instead I went down to the breakfast room and helped myself to some yogurt and honey. I'm not sure it was entirely kosher, but... I will be missing breakfast tomorrow. Now its time to pack and then for an early bedtime since I leave so very, very early. I have thoroughly enjoyed my trip, but it is time to go home. Andy asked me if I was ready to go home and I said yes. Before, I used to love traveling by myself and exploring places and I would travel by myself just fine. I went all over the US. But now, its not as fun to be by myself and see all these things alone because I really want to share it with Abe. So, of course, I think that is a perfect reason to do more traveling (and I am sure Abe will agree).
Today, Paula and I just get to hang out in Athens. This is our last day in Athens, and I leave for home tomorrow at 6:55 am local (Athenian) time. Today, we just took it easy. It wasn't great last night as I was overcome with cramps in my stomach, and our room is outside one of the world's loudest karaoke bars, so we didn't get a whole lot of sleep. And Paula and I are so excited to go home, it was hard to sleep anyway!
We stayed in late, and then had breakfast with Andy and his wife and their kids. Andy left to take a shower, but Paula and I enjoyed chatting with his wife Karen, who is soooo nice. We learned that apparently before this trip, Andy was nervous about it because he wasn't sure about spending two weeks in such close quarters with students! Apparently we are a little intimidating :)
Then Paula and I went out shopping. It was so nice to not be in a hurry and to be able to look at whatever, and just wander and browse. I got a book for the plane ride home on Greek Mythology, a beautiful horse statue to decorate our home with and remember Greece by, a glass ring, a soda, and a special gift for Abe, which I cannot reveal here or it would ruin the surprise.
Paula and I wandered all over: through the flea market, into many shops, and just had a good time saying “no” to all the persistent shopkeepers. He he, they are persistent, “Oh, just come in, come try something,” and the ever cheesy and inexplicably popular, “something pretty for the pretty lady.” Paula and I just roll our eyes.
For lunch, it was crepes. Its really, really neat to see them made. They use a little wooden stick with a mini-rolling pin on it to roll out the crepe batter on the large round skillet. Then they add whatever you want: all kinds of vegetables, cheese, meats, or nutella and sweets – anything! Then they fold in in half 3 times, and it becomes a GIANT sandwich type thing. Like a french burrito. I think a gyro is like a Greek taco (or burrito, I can't decide which one its more like). Then, thinking we were done, I finally found the perfect pair of sunglasses that I have been looking for. Its so sunny here that my dark brown ones aren't cutting it. So I found a very stylish pair of pitch black wraparounds that are “ooo-la-la.” I am quite pleased. And I also found a fanny pack for horse stuff. Yeah its cheesey, but it works great! (And you can never find them in the States).
And then there was a funny interlude of how I tried to go to a Greek bank to get different denominations of bills so it would be easier to pay the cab driver at 4:30 in the morning tomorrow. So I tried to enter the bank. You have to buzz in – twice. (There is a glass chamber in the middle where they examine if you look like a bank robber or not before letting you in). Then, after figuring that out and gaining entry to the inner sanctum, I was told they were already closed at 2:30 (it was 3pm), and I should go elsewhere. I just wanted to ask why they let me in if they were closed? Oh well.
Now, after a nap, I was hungry for dinner, but I didn't want to go spend any money. So instead I went down to the breakfast room and helped myself to some yogurt and honey. I'm not sure it was entirely kosher, but... I will be missing breakfast tomorrow. Now its time to pack and then for an early bedtime since I leave so very, very early. I have thoroughly enjoyed my trip, but it is time to go home. Andy asked me if I was ready to go home and I said yes. Before, I used to love traveling by myself and exploring places and I would travel by myself just fine. I went all over the US. But now, its not as fun to be by myself and see all these things alone because I really want to share it with Abe. So, of course, I think that is a perfect reason to do more traveling (and I am sure Abe will agree).
Monday, May 25, 2009
Differences Between Americans and Greeks
Differences Between Americans and Greeks:
After two weeks of observation, here are some of my thoughts on the differences between Greeks and Americans. Now I know this isn't all inclusive, or representative of EVERYONE, (I do use a lot of generalizations), but here it is (as a warning, it is a little long :).
Clothing: One of the main ways to tell Americans and Greeks apart is by their clothing. Americans like to wear jean shorts and t-shirts. Europeans / Greeks NEVER wear the baggy style American T-shirts. Sneakers are different too. American sneakers have a kind of rise and heel, and laces. European sneaks are sleek with no heel, and Velcro ties are popular, as are small laces. Everyone also all wears very tight clothing. Fitted jeans (tapered to the feet), tight tops; very different from the American style flared jeans and loose fitting T-shirts. Belts are also very popular over here, and shirts always end at the waist – none of this American wife beaters down over-your-hips for girls look. Black fitted jeans are also popular, as are leggings, either to the ground or to the calves. Sometimes the girls wear a loose fitting linen type shirt over either their pants (with a belt, of course!) For shoes, there are sleek tennis shoes, but almost no one anyone wears those. Men wear leather flats, and women wear gladiator style sandals, ballet flats, or heels. Bright colors (think bright yellow and pink) are popular, and so is metallic. Also, you can ALWAYS tell an American because they are the ONLY ones who ever wear flip flops. Dead give away.
hair/ makeup: Americans like to straighten their hair – no one does that over here. They just wear it the way it is. Also, Americans tend to wear a lot more makeup than the Greeks. Thats not to say Greeks don't wear makeup. They definitely do, and always seem to be “made up,” they just don't tend to go for the super dark eyes during-the-day look as much. For accessories, sunglasses are a key item over here. It seems everyone has a very stylish pair they wear everywhere. Both wraparound and aviator are hot styles. As are white glasses. Only Americans seem to sport the cheesy 1950s style plastic Ray Bean knockoffs.
Mannerisms: Americans walk like Americans. I don't know how else to say it.
Attitudes: The Greeks don't seem to care too much for Americans. Actually they seem to dislike them, which is interesting considering 25% of their GDP is from tourism. Also, they don't seem to care about their history. Along these lines, our tour guide said that there have been so many different invaders throughout Greece's history, the people are very mixed: Greek, Roman, African, Persian, Turkish... But because of current turbulence in world politics and relations, they are afraid of discovering Turkish roots, for example. To me, that signals a lot of interesting, perverse, and unexpected incentives for acceptance of people and protection of the Greek history and sites.
supermarkets: ummm, they don't really exist over here. There are small markets in the cities where you can buy bread, and stalls in the flea market to buy meat and nuts, but mostly its just very small stores with a few necessities. Its crazy, I feel so spoiled now to go to Safeway and buy tons of peanut butter, and have a million items all at my disposal. That does not exist here. Even in the smaller towns, its just very small, local grocer shops.
Toilets: Personally, one of my favorite differences. In America, toilets have lids, seats, levers, and the toilet paper is next to the toilet. Well, in Greece, there are no lids (or it might be like our hotel, where it is attached, at an angle!), no seats, and no levers. And toilet paper is attached to all kinds of things. I never thought I would enjoy so much the American invention of a toilet-paper-roll-holder with a stopper on the end so it doesn't fly off.
Internet: in America, its SO EASY to get online. You have it at home, its at the public library (I must say, I sorely miss all the libraries, I never thought I would), its free at coffee shops, its everywhere. Here, it may exist, but it is expensive to use. Now, mind you, I am a traveler, not a resident, but even so, you still cannot just go to a coffee shop and use wi-fi. Its a little infuriating when you are trying to do something, but its always an adventure!
credit cards: In America, you use your card for everything, even small $1 purchases. In Greece, there are 3% ofter 5% surcharges for using cards applied to businesses. As a result, many businesses, even hotels and restaurants, are “cash only.” Its very different to see everyone just using cash – everywhere and for everything. Definitely not like the Visa commercial! He he.
Cars: Cars here are SMALL!!!!!!!! About half of the people just ride around on little mopeds or motorbikes. And drivers are totally crazy, too. They do NOT, I repeat, do NOT stop for pedestrians. The cars themselves are very small. For perspective, a normal sized Honda now appears large. Yep, I said large. The streets are so tiny too that all these little cars have side mirrors. So when they park, they fold the mirrors against the side of the car so they don't get ripped off! I think its a great idea, and want it on my car. (When I eventually get one :) In America, I have only ever recently (i.e. this last year) seen foldable side mirrors on very large trucks. And here in Greece, even older cars had it, so it seems its been around for a while.
Buildings: In Greece, there are some beautiful older buildings (aside from the Acropolis and the Parthenon... but they are almost all in complete disrepair. And the newer buildings remind me of prisons, or soviet style compounds. They are literally cement compounds – just blocks. I find it quite intriguing as well, that they seem to build from the top down. When we were driving through the countryside, and would see buildings, they would be finished on the top floor, and people would be living in the apartments up there, but the first and second floors would be totally unfinished and just bare cement, without even walls! While I am not quite sure I yearn for suburbia just yet, I certainly miss the pride and the care that Americans tend to take in their housing and the diversity of buildings you find in older cities.
Pride/ Care for their country: While I used to complain about litter bugs in America, its nothing compared to here. I have been really quite stunned at how little Athenians seem to value their country and their cities, especially Athens. Everything is a trash receptacle. There are cigarette buts in between wooded slats, chip bags stuffed in holes at ancient sites; it just doesn't cease to amaze me why it doesn't bother people more, and why the don't change. I guess it just really bothers me to constantly feel dirty. Montana's trash problem is nothing compared to here. And even in Seattle – a very large city – after large festivals they always clean up and the city is usually, on the whole, clean.
Siestas: Every day, all the shops close up in the afternoon and then reopen at night. Ah, time for my daily nap. Its too hot to work. And speaking of work, in America, you would be hard pressed to find a shopkeeper or worker too busy on their cell phone long to help a customer, here, its quite common.
Forward Men and the Battle of the Sexes: The men here are quite persistent, and you must just SAY NO, many times! They are very forward, and do not like to take no. Even if you tell them you are married, they will still ask, “But I want to see you again.” Age differences also don't discourage them and 50/60 year old men will hit on 20 something women. Another interesting note is that you see a lot more girls hanging with girls, and guys with guys than you do in America, and most couples appear to be foreigners, whereas in America there will often be mixed sex groups hanging out, and couples are very normal to see.
Graffiti, Feral Animals And Smokers: Everywhere here.
After being here, everything in America just seems so BIG. And Montana seems so pristine. And everything is comparatively so easy to access and so inexpensive. If I want something, its relatively so easy to just get, and so close by. Its amazing. The one contrast to that would be the pharmacies. I don't know if they have subsidized medicine here or what, but I am suspicious they do, because Paula got sick and needed medicine and we were able to go to a pharmacy and get what would have been a prescription only antibiotic in the States for about 5 euro. Anyway, those are some thoughts that occurred to me. Anyone else have comments, thoughts?
After two weeks of observation, here are some of my thoughts on the differences between Greeks and Americans. Now I know this isn't all inclusive, or representative of EVERYONE, (I do use a lot of generalizations), but here it is (as a warning, it is a little long :).
Clothing: One of the main ways to tell Americans and Greeks apart is by their clothing. Americans like to wear jean shorts and t-shirts. Europeans / Greeks NEVER wear the baggy style American T-shirts. Sneakers are different too. American sneakers have a kind of rise and heel, and laces. European sneaks are sleek with no heel, and Velcro ties are popular, as are small laces. Everyone also all wears very tight clothing. Fitted jeans (tapered to the feet), tight tops; very different from the American style flared jeans and loose fitting T-shirts. Belts are also very popular over here, and shirts always end at the waist – none of this American wife beaters down over-your-hips for girls look. Black fitted jeans are also popular, as are leggings, either to the ground or to the calves. Sometimes the girls wear a loose fitting linen type shirt over either their pants (with a belt, of course!) For shoes, there are sleek tennis shoes, but almost no one anyone wears those. Men wear leather flats, and women wear gladiator style sandals, ballet flats, or heels. Bright colors (think bright yellow and pink) are popular, and so is metallic. Also, you can ALWAYS tell an American because they are the ONLY ones who ever wear flip flops. Dead give away.
hair/ makeup: Americans like to straighten their hair – no one does that over here. They just wear it the way it is. Also, Americans tend to wear a lot more makeup than the Greeks. Thats not to say Greeks don't wear makeup. They definitely do, and always seem to be “made up,” they just don't tend to go for the super dark eyes during-the-day look as much. For accessories, sunglasses are a key item over here. It seems everyone has a very stylish pair they wear everywhere. Both wraparound and aviator are hot styles. As are white glasses. Only Americans seem to sport the cheesy 1950s style plastic Ray Bean knockoffs.
Mannerisms: Americans walk like Americans. I don't know how else to say it.
Attitudes: The Greeks don't seem to care too much for Americans. Actually they seem to dislike them, which is interesting considering 25% of their GDP is from tourism. Also, they don't seem to care about their history. Along these lines, our tour guide said that there have been so many different invaders throughout Greece's history, the people are very mixed: Greek, Roman, African, Persian, Turkish... But because of current turbulence in world politics and relations, they are afraid of discovering Turkish roots, for example. To me, that signals a lot of interesting, perverse, and unexpected incentives for acceptance of people and protection of the Greek history and sites.
supermarkets: ummm, they don't really exist over here. There are small markets in the cities where you can buy bread, and stalls in the flea market to buy meat and nuts, but mostly its just very small stores with a few necessities. Its crazy, I feel so spoiled now to go to Safeway and buy tons of peanut butter, and have a million items all at my disposal. That does not exist here. Even in the smaller towns, its just very small, local grocer shops.
Toilets: Personally, one of my favorite differences. In America, toilets have lids, seats, levers, and the toilet paper is next to the toilet. Well, in Greece, there are no lids (or it might be like our hotel, where it is attached, at an angle!), no seats, and no levers. And toilet paper is attached to all kinds of things. I never thought I would enjoy so much the American invention of a toilet-paper-roll-holder with a stopper on the end so it doesn't fly off.
Internet: in America, its SO EASY to get online. You have it at home, its at the public library (I must say, I sorely miss all the libraries, I never thought I would), its free at coffee shops, its everywhere. Here, it may exist, but it is expensive to use. Now, mind you, I am a traveler, not a resident, but even so, you still cannot just go to a coffee shop and use wi-fi. Its a little infuriating when you are trying to do something, but its always an adventure!
credit cards: In America, you use your card for everything, even small $1 purchases. In Greece, there are 3% ofter 5% surcharges for using cards applied to businesses. As a result, many businesses, even hotels and restaurants, are “cash only.” Its very different to see everyone just using cash – everywhere and for everything. Definitely not like the Visa commercial! He he.
Cars: Cars here are SMALL!!!!!!!! About half of the people just ride around on little mopeds or motorbikes. And drivers are totally crazy, too. They do NOT, I repeat, do NOT stop for pedestrians. The cars themselves are very small. For perspective, a normal sized Honda now appears large. Yep, I said large. The streets are so tiny too that all these little cars have side mirrors. So when they park, they fold the mirrors against the side of the car so they don't get ripped off! I think its a great idea, and want it on my car. (When I eventually get one :) In America, I have only ever recently (i.e. this last year) seen foldable side mirrors on very large trucks. And here in Greece, even older cars had it, so it seems its been around for a while.
Buildings: In Greece, there are some beautiful older buildings (aside from the Acropolis and the Parthenon... but they are almost all in complete disrepair. And the newer buildings remind me of prisons, or soviet style compounds. They are literally cement compounds – just blocks. I find it quite intriguing as well, that they seem to build from the top down. When we were driving through the countryside, and would see buildings, they would be finished on the top floor, and people would be living in the apartments up there, but the first and second floors would be totally unfinished and just bare cement, without even walls! While I am not quite sure I yearn for suburbia just yet, I certainly miss the pride and the care that Americans tend to take in their housing and the diversity of buildings you find in older cities.
Pride/ Care for their country: While I used to complain about litter bugs in America, its nothing compared to here. I have been really quite stunned at how little Athenians seem to value their country and their cities, especially Athens. Everything is a trash receptacle. There are cigarette buts in between wooded slats, chip bags stuffed in holes at ancient sites; it just doesn't cease to amaze me why it doesn't bother people more, and why the don't change. I guess it just really bothers me to constantly feel dirty. Montana's trash problem is nothing compared to here. And even in Seattle – a very large city – after large festivals they always clean up and the city is usually, on the whole, clean.
Siestas: Every day, all the shops close up in the afternoon and then reopen at night. Ah, time for my daily nap. Its too hot to work. And speaking of work, in America, you would be hard pressed to find a shopkeeper or worker too busy on their cell phone long to help a customer, here, its quite common.
Forward Men and the Battle of the Sexes: The men here are quite persistent, and you must just SAY NO, many times! They are very forward, and do not like to take no. Even if you tell them you are married, they will still ask, “But I want to see you again.” Age differences also don't discourage them and 50/60 year old men will hit on 20 something women. Another interesting note is that you see a lot more girls hanging with girls, and guys with guys than you do in America, and most couples appear to be foreigners, whereas in America there will often be mixed sex groups hanging out, and couples are very normal to see.
Graffiti, Feral Animals And Smokers: Everywhere here.
After being here, everything in America just seems so BIG. And Montana seems so pristine. And everything is comparatively so easy to access and so inexpensive. If I want something, its relatively so easy to just get, and so close by. Its amazing. The one contrast to that would be the pharmacies. I don't know if they have subsidized medicine here or what, but I am suspicious they do, because Paula got sick and needed medicine and we were able to go to a pharmacy and get what would have been a prescription only antibiotic in the States for about 5 euro. Anyway, those are some thoughts that occurred to me. Anyone else have comments, thoughts?
More Gelato
Yum, so Paula and Andy and his family and I all went out to gelato -- Oh my goodness, I can't possibly fit any more in my stomach. It is soo good! So very very many calories today... but worth it. Geez Abe, you've lost 7 pounds and I've gained it -- what happened to the poverty diet I was supposed to be on?
Day 15- Mon. May 25
Day 15 (Monday, May 25):
Today was our return trip to Athens. In the morning, everyone had to say goodbye. It was kind of funny, really. I hadn't realized it, but most of the guys had all gone to high school together, and so already knew each other and were at least “sort of” friends, so it may have been a little more teary good bye for them, but apart from Paula and the profs, I don't particularly care for anyone in the group. Not that they are bad people, just 10 out of 12 are not people I respect or would care to ever hang around outside of the trip. Paula said she hates goodbyes, but I was thinking, “I don't really care... can I go yet??” I used to think it was insensitive, but now I've realized its just that I can work with people as colleagues, but that doesn't mean I have to be buddy-buddy with them. I pick my own friends based on their character. Just because I've spent 2 weeks with these people doesn't mean I have to like them any better.
Oh, and in the morning, I walked around town and saw a few odd/ unexpected things.
(1)A memorial garden with no flowers and the grass withered and uncared for.
(2)A street vendor fair at 7:30 am outside the school selling toilet paper and cleaning supplies from the backs of trucks.
(3)A beautiful church.
*Insert* I am not sure if I have mentioned it, but the breakfast at Hotel Varonos (in Delphi) was by FAR the best breakfast of any. Meats, 4 cheese, eggs, breads, croissants, jelly doughnuts, 4/5 kinds of fresh fruit, 6 juices, coffee, tea... it was great....
Off we went to Athens, a 3 hour bus ride, and once there I realized I was no longer enchanted, merely an observer. The city was the same, but it was no longer new and exciting – just Athens. I was hungry so I spoiled myself and stuffed my stomach with a pork gyros and chocolate sorbet gelato. The sorbet was so good – it was made without eggs or milk and was sooo rich, it was like cake batter, and ever so chocolatey!! After sitting in the sun and in Monastiraki square, its time for a rest. Only 2 more days till I go home!
Today was our return trip to Athens. In the morning, everyone had to say goodbye. It was kind of funny, really. I hadn't realized it, but most of the guys had all gone to high school together, and so already knew each other and were at least “sort of” friends, so it may have been a little more teary good bye for them, but apart from Paula and the profs, I don't particularly care for anyone in the group. Not that they are bad people, just 10 out of 12 are not people I respect or would care to ever hang around outside of the trip. Paula said she hates goodbyes, but I was thinking, “I don't really care... can I go yet??” I used to think it was insensitive, but now I've realized its just that I can work with people as colleagues, but that doesn't mean I have to be buddy-buddy with them. I pick my own friends based on their character. Just because I've spent 2 weeks with these people doesn't mean I have to like them any better.
Oh, and in the morning, I walked around town and saw a few odd/ unexpected things.
(1)A memorial garden with no flowers and the grass withered and uncared for.
(2)A street vendor fair at 7:30 am outside the school selling toilet paper and cleaning supplies from the backs of trucks.
(3)A beautiful church.
*Insert* I am not sure if I have mentioned it, but the breakfast at Hotel Varonos (in Delphi) was by FAR the best breakfast of any. Meats, 4 cheese, eggs, breads, croissants, jelly doughnuts, 4/5 kinds of fresh fruit, 6 juices, coffee, tea... it was great....
Off we went to Athens, a 3 hour bus ride, and once there I realized I was no longer enchanted, merely an observer. The city was the same, but it was no longer new and exciting – just Athens. I was hungry so I spoiled myself and stuffed my stomach with a pork gyros and chocolate sorbet gelato. The sorbet was so good – it was made without eggs or milk and was sooo rich, it was like cake batter, and ever so chocolatey!! After sitting in the sun and in Monastiraki square, its time for a rest. Only 2 more days till I go home!
Nicole is a Computer Genius!! Pictures are Up on Picasa!
Nicole is a Computer Genius!!
Take that, world :) So, I've been very bothered by not being able to upload any of my photos from Picassa to the world wide web this ENTIRE trip. Its been frustrating to take them and want to share them so much, but every time I tried to synch an album (i.e. upload to the web) I couldn't log on to my account to do so. I could log into Picassa once on the web, I just couldn't upload pictures. So.. well... I have finally figured out what was wrong!! (Don't you love google :) The time and date on the main computer settings was incorrect and was preventing the synchronization of photos on the computer hard-drive with the Picassa web album. By correcting the time, date, zone, and synching the computer's dating/ timing system online within the computer settings, I was able to fix the problem and will be upload photos to picassa and sending out links!! I am so excited!!! woot woot!! I feel so strong, smart, and powerful :)
Take that, world :) So, I've been very bothered by not being able to upload any of my photos from Picassa to the world wide web this ENTIRE trip. Its been frustrating to take them and want to share them so much, but every time I tried to synch an album (i.e. upload to the web) I couldn't log on to my account to do so. I could log into Picassa once on the web, I just couldn't upload pictures. So.. well... I have finally figured out what was wrong!! (Don't you love google :) The time and date on the main computer settings was incorrect and was preventing the synchronization of photos on the computer hard-drive with the Picassa web album. By correcting the time, date, zone, and synching the computer's dating/ timing system online within the computer settings, I was able to fix the problem and will be upload photos to picassa and sending out links!! I am so excited!!! woot woot!! I feel so strong, smart, and powerful :)
Day 14- Sun. May 24
Day 14 (Sunday, May 24)
Today we toured Delphi, site of the famous oracle. It started out a city state (or at least near one), but once it gained religious importance, it also became a neutral location where representatives would meet and sign treaties and such. (So, they kicked all the people out of the city state at that point :)
Delphi was one of my favorite sites. Its very intact, and just really neat, (and I was in a good mood, and its in a beautiful location, just to be honest). I found it very interesting that the temple where the Oracle was at was at the bottom of the hill, one of the first things we came to and the stadium and theater were up higher. It was just a beautiful site. There was the Oracle's temple, a stadium for games, a theater for 5 thousand people (so not too big, the one at Epidavros seats 14,000), and several banks. It was like sponsorship. So Athens, for example would build a building to house gifts and donations that people brought to the Oracle, and it would be called the “Athenian Treasury” a la Safeco Field. There were a lot of those. Also, I learned how originally, they used young virgins as the Oracles. However, they had problems with the virgins either running off after falling in love, or, less happily, being raped and kidnapped by the men who came to the Oracle for advice. After one brutal such case, they switched to using older women. They would still dress in white (like virgins), but had to be over 50 and have had children to be chosen. Interesting.
Also, I had a chance to talk with one of my professors because no one else wanted to walk to the Sanctuary of Athena, so it was just us two. I felt good because I got to share the things Paula and I had talked about being our frustrations with the class and also our suggestions for improvement. Andy (the professor) seemed to appreciate the comments and suggestions.
Sunday night, too, I had another coup. One of the girls (lets call her Barbie just in case she somehow manages to ever read this) is a wench. Very catty, immature, silly, relies on her looks, not as intelligent as some... Well, because the professors' families are now with us, it takes them much longer to get ready. So for dinner, we (the students) went ahead to the restaurant first, and were going to order appetizers and then they (professors and families) would be along shortly thereafter. Well, of the 12 of us there, several of us were vocally requesting meatballs. But Barbie was feeling rather important that night apparently, because she ordered the appetizers she wanted. When, yet again, she shot down the idea of meatballs as I was ordering them – I believe it was because I suggested them, since I was not the only one that wanted them – she just smiled coyly and said, “Well, we already have seven appetizers, I don't want to spend all their money,” I just felt so sick. It was such a high school, “Mean Girls” style power play. It was ridiculous; every meal we order tons of appetizers because there are 19 of us in the group! And Rob made it clear we weren't short on money. I was getting upset and angry inside at her stupid games, but, instead of responding to her, I did what any mature woman does – I used my brain. I asked myself “What Would Mother Do?” And (thank you mom), she said, (being very practical, intelligent, and confident), “Why do you have to play her game, Nicole? If you want meatballs, then get some.” and I said, “You are right, this is so dumb and I am so far above and beyond this.” So, I got up, went to the bathroom, and just happened to stop at the kitchen on my way back and I ordered the meatballs myself!!! I felt so good :) And... the best part was, apart from the look on her face when meatballs arrived :) was that everyone LOVED the meatballs (they were THE best appetizer by far), and Rob (a professor) commented on the “good choice.” I let her take the credit, but I knew inside. And it was good. And I got to eat my delicious meatballs. It just felt really really good to not be stymied or over-run by a silly little girl's power play and to just take charge and not be flustered and get it done. He he he... watch out world!
Today we toured Delphi, site of the famous oracle. It started out a city state (or at least near one), but once it gained religious importance, it also became a neutral location where representatives would meet and sign treaties and such. (So, they kicked all the people out of the city state at that point :)
Delphi was one of my favorite sites. Its very intact, and just really neat, (and I was in a good mood, and its in a beautiful location, just to be honest). I found it very interesting that the temple where the Oracle was at was at the bottom of the hill, one of the first things we came to and the stadium and theater were up higher. It was just a beautiful site. There was the Oracle's temple, a stadium for games, a theater for 5 thousand people (so not too big, the one at Epidavros seats 14,000), and several banks. It was like sponsorship. So Athens, for example would build a building to house gifts and donations that people brought to the Oracle, and it would be called the “Athenian Treasury” a la Safeco Field. There were a lot of those. Also, I learned how originally, they used young virgins as the Oracles. However, they had problems with the virgins either running off after falling in love, or, less happily, being raped and kidnapped by the men who came to the Oracle for advice. After one brutal such case, they switched to using older women. They would still dress in white (like virgins), but had to be over 50 and have had children to be chosen. Interesting.
Also, I had a chance to talk with one of my professors because no one else wanted to walk to the Sanctuary of Athena, so it was just us two. I felt good because I got to share the things Paula and I had talked about being our frustrations with the class and also our suggestions for improvement. Andy (the professor) seemed to appreciate the comments and suggestions.
Sunday night, too, I had another coup. One of the girls (lets call her Barbie just in case she somehow manages to ever read this) is a wench. Very catty, immature, silly, relies on her looks, not as intelligent as some... Well, because the professors' families are now with us, it takes them much longer to get ready. So for dinner, we (the students) went ahead to the restaurant first, and were going to order appetizers and then they (professors and families) would be along shortly thereafter. Well, of the 12 of us there, several of us were vocally requesting meatballs. But Barbie was feeling rather important that night apparently, because she ordered the appetizers she wanted. When, yet again, she shot down the idea of meatballs as I was ordering them – I believe it was because I suggested them, since I was not the only one that wanted them – she just smiled coyly and said, “Well, we already have seven appetizers, I don't want to spend all their money,” I just felt so sick. It was such a high school, “Mean Girls” style power play. It was ridiculous; every meal we order tons of appetizers because there are 19 of us in the group! And Rob made it clear we weren't short on money. I was getting upset and angry inside at her stupid games, but, instead of responding to her, I did what any mature woman does – I used my brain. I asked myself “What Would Mother Do?” And (thank you mom), she said, (being very practical, intelligent, and confident), “Why do you have to play her game, Nicole? If you want meatballs, then get some.” and I said, “You are right, this is so dumb and I am so far above and beyond this.” So, I got up, went to the bathroom, and just happened to stop at the kitchen on my way back and I ordered the meatballs myself!!! I felt so good :) And... the best part was, apart from the look on her face when meatballs arrived :) was that everyone LOVED the meatballs (they were THE best appetizer by far), and Rob (a professor) commented on the “good choice.” I let her take the credit, but I knew inside. And it was good. And I got to eat my delicious meatballs. It just felt really really good to not be stymied or over-run by a silly little girl's power play and to just take charge and not be flustered and get it done. He he he... watch out world!
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Day 13- Sat. May 23
Day 13 (Saturday, May 23):
Today we left Nafplio to go to Delphi. We also stopped in Thermopylae to see the battlefield where the Spartans fought the Persians. (For the non-history people, this is the site of the battlefield in “300”). Then we kept driving. We drove ALL day. But, it wasn't too bad; just long.
After we arrived we went to our hotel, and the hotel owner/ manager was a character for sure! He would boss around both of his grown children, telling them what to do and he yelled at a guy in our class for using the hotel lobby computer to check his email. I quote, “Get off. Now is the time for reception. Now is not the time for computer. Get off.” I thought it was pretty funny. And the way he talked to Rob and his wife Beth (who had made the reservations) was hilarious. “Where is your mother [Rob's mom] going to sleep? What, well, of course she sleeps with you!!”, and apparently there had been some confusion about how many beds were required, and when Beth tried to explain how they were “big boys” and “they didn't want to sleep together”... I just about died laughing inside. The way he would just look out and survey everyone. You can tell the hotel was his pride and joy. Oh, and we were not allowed to set our luggage in the lobby, because “in Greece, we do not put our luggage there.” So instead we put it next to the desk, obstructing everyone's ability to move. The hotel itself is actually quite nice. It is decorated a little weird, I will grant, but nice, and my room is like a log cabin.
It is so funny to see how different people obsess over certain things. I like to think its certainly not worth getting upset about. It is better to just observe it and let it go. Different people in the group though have different reactions, and its been eye-opening to see it. Some people are totally fine to go with the flow, and prefer no plans. Other people like having a plan, but don't get upset when it doesn't all work out (like having to re-organize some rooms, or not having a specific bathroom stop planned). And others still need to have a rigid schedule and full itinerary that doesn't change to feel comfortable. Its such a study in contrast. I think I fall somewhere in the middle. I like structure, but I am not upset if things don't always go to plan. Its funny, I think in my day to day life, it upsets me more when things don't work out, but its like while I am traveling, I expect so much to be new and different, and hard because (of course) things won't work out, that I am a lot more relaxed and less perturbed. Its funny.
And dinner was GREAT. We all went to a restaurant that had an AMAZING view. It was on a cliff and looked to the hills/ mountains, and the water. Andy ordered some carafs of local wine, and we had a bunch of great appetizers: greek salad, anti-pasto, (and I suggested) the village sausage (sooo good!), stuffed vine leaves, and then I had pork souvlaki for dinner. I think it was the first dinner I was mostly relaxed at (more or less).
Today we left Nafplio to go to Delphi. We also stopped in Thermopylae to see the battlefield where the Spartans fought the Persians. (For the non-history people, this is the site of the battlefield in “300”). Then we kept driving. We drove ALL day. But, it wasn't too bad; just long.
After we arrived we went to our hotel, and the hotel owner/ manager was a character for sure! He would boss around both of his grown children, telling them what to do and he yelled at a guy in our class for using the hotel lobby computer to check his email. I quote, “Get off. Now is the time for reception. Now is not the time for computer. Get off.” I thought it was pretty funny. And the way he talked to Rob and his wife Beth (who had made the reservations) was hilarious. “Where is your mother [Rob's mom] going to sleep? What, well, of course she sleeps with you!!”, and apparently there had been some confusion about how many beds were required, and when Beth tried to explain how they were “big boys” and “they didn't want to sleep together”... I just about died laughing inside. The way he would just look out and survey everyone. You can tell the hotel was his pride and joy. Oh, and we were not allowed to set our luggage in the lobby, because “in Greece, we do not put our luggage there.” So instead we put it next to the desk, obstructing everyone's ability to move. The hotel itself is actually quite nice. It is decorated a little weird, I will grant, but nice, and my room is like a log cabin.
It is so funny to see how different people obsess over certain things. I like to think its certainly not worth getting upset about. It is better to just observe it and let it go. Different people in the group though have different reactions, and its been eye-opening to see it. Some people are totally fine to go with the flow, and prefer no plans. Other people like having a plan, but don't get upset when it doesn't all work out (like having to re-organize some rooms, or not having a specific bathroom stop planned). And others still need to have a rigid schedule and full itinerary that doesn't change to feel comfortable. Its such a study in contrast. I think I fall somewhere in the middle. I like structure, but I am not upset if things don't always go to plan. Its funny, I think in my day to day life, it upsets me more when things don't work out, but its like while I am traveling, I expect so much to be new and different, and hard because (of course) things won't work out, that I am a lot more relaxed and less perturbed. Its funny.
And dinner was GREAT. We all went to a restaurant that had an AMAZING view. It was on a cliff and looked to the hills/ mountains, and the water. Andy ordered some carafs of local wine, and we had a bunch of great appetizers: greek salad, anti-pasto, (and I suggested) the village sausage (sooo good!), stuffed vine leaves, and then I had pork souvlaki for dinner. I think it was the first dinner I was mostly relaxed at (more or less).
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Nicole's Kick-Ass Grades
So, for those of you who didn't know, I got a 4.0 (straight A's for the uniformed). Bascially, really hard to do, especially when working so much.
And... the super cool news -- apart from the 4.0 -- is that I got THE top grade in one of my classes!!! How sweet is that !!!! THE NUMBER ONE STUDENT -- WOOT WOOT!! :)
And... the super cool news -- apart from the 4.0 -- is that I got THE top grade in one of my classes!!! How sweet is that !!!! THE NUMBER ONE STUDENT -- WOOT WOOT!! :)
List of Items to Pack on Future Trips (Or Important Ones I did Bring :)
List of Items to Pack on Future Trips (Or Important Ones I did Bring :)
Another thing I've done is to compile a list of things that should be included when packing for future trips. The list is as follows, and is a work in progress – any suggestions?
-- Abe (THE most important thing to pack. Obviously after Abe, all else is, to some extent, “extra”).
-- Sunscreen (yes, I brought a lot, but its also very important)
-- bug spray (I did not bring and am regretting it)
-- aloe (also did not bring, and am also regretting)
-- extra 3 ounce bottles (when trying not to check luggage at the airport, it would be so handy to just have an extra bottle or two to throw purchased aloe, for example, into instead of having to throw it away because its a 5 ounce container)
-- flavored water packets (when traveling – especially in hot places – its so easy to get dehydrated, yet I hate when you are so hot and thirsty that just water won't due, but you don't want to pay for a soda – well, you can spend $5 beforehand and get 20 packets of gatorade-like stuff that will flavor your water! Definitely something Abe and I will do next trip).
-- Lotion (I wrongly counted on American hotel standards for this one. I will definitely remember to bring a small container of moisturizer next trip).
-- shampoo, conditioner (again, I was hoping the hotels would provide, but after 2 weeks, I just can't wait to wash and condition my hair!)
-- benadryl (for all the bug bites)
-- itch/ bug bite relief (ditto)
-- Naproxen (haven't needed, but would be smart to have along)
-- Int'l health travel info card (for those of you who don't know, its like a “health passport” – although not required in any way – and it contains your vaccination and pertinent health history information in case something happens to you and you can't speak or don't remember).
-- money belt (It would be nice to have, although my tiny shoulder purse has worked GREAT so far – I am loving it).
-- Money (oh, to eat... :)
-- relief for hives (self explanatory)
-- i-pod (again, something I brought. I was a little worried about bringing it, but I am totally glad I did, with all the traveling I've done on this trip, its been great to have music and books on tape for 10 hour plane rides, and 6.5 hour bus rides).
-- Camera (gotta take pictures!)
-- jump drive
Only 4 more days!
**P.S** I don't know what the internet situation will be in Delphi. (I had to pay for this internet). But, I will post (and write to you, Abe), as soon as I can.
Another thing I've done is to compile a list of things that should be included when packing for future trips. The list is as follows, and is a work in progress – any suggestions?
-- Abe (THE most important thing to pack. Obviously after Abe, all else is, to some extent, “extra”).
-- Sunscreen (yes, I brought a lot, but its also very important)
-- bug spray (I did not bring and am regretting it)
-- aloe (also did not bring, and am also regretting)
-- extra 3 ounce bottles (when trying not to check luggage at the airport, it would be so handy to just have an extra bottle or two to throw purchased aloe, for example, into instead of having to throw it away because its a 5 ounce container)
-- flavored water packets (when traveling – especially in hot places – its so easy to get dehydrated, yet I hate when you are so hot and thirsty that just water won't due, but you don't want to pay for a soda – well, you can spend $5 beforehand and get 20 packets of gatorade-like stuff that will flavor your water! Definitely something Abe and I will do next trip).
-- Lotion (I wrongly counted on American hotel standards for this one. I will definitely remember to bring a small container of moisturizer next trip).
-- shampoo, conditioner (again, I was hoping the hotels would provide, but after 2 weeks, I just can't wait to wash and condition my hair!)
-- benadryl (for all the bug bites)
-- itch/ bug bite relief (ditto)
-- Naproxen (haven't needed, but would be smart to have along)
-- Int'l health travel info card (for those of you who don't know, its like a “health passport” – although not required in any way – and it contains your vaccination and pertinent health history information in case something happens to you and you can't speak or don't remember).
-- money belt (It would be nice to have, although my tiny shoulder purse has worked GREAT so far – I am loving it).
-- Money (oh, to eat... :)
-- relief for hives (self explanatory)
-- i-pod (again, something I brought. I was a little worried about bringing it, but I am totally glad I did, with all the traveling I've done on this trip, its been great to have music and books on tape for 10 hour plane rides, and 6.5 hour bus rides).
-- Camera (gotta take pictures!)
-- jump drive
Only 4 more days!
**P.S** I don't know what the internet situation will be in Delphi. (I had to pay for this internet). But, I will post (and write to you, Abe), as soon as I can.
Day 12- Friday May 22
Day 12 (Friday, May 22):
Yay! The most important thing that happened today was that I got a card from Abe :) He is so sweet!!
Besides that, we had a “free day” today. Paula, Sarah, Casey, Austin and I all took the 10am bus to Tolo. Everyone one else was too lazy to get up and go. It cost 1.4 euro one way and was a quick 30 minute bus ride. We got off right at the beach, and I jumped into the water. Oh man, it was cold, but it felt good. I've never actually spent a day at the beach just tanning and laying in the sun before. But, being with some “girly girls” I thought I would give it a try. It was overrated. I did like laying in the sun, and swimming in the sea, and it was gorgeous, but just laying around to turn into a tomato seemed a little silly to me.
Oh, and to Abe, you asked if I'd been to a nude beach, well... this wasn't entirely nude, but there were a lot of (older) women walking around topless. Now, I do not wish to appear to have a “closed mind”, but I suspect I am not the only one who considers it bad enough to see fat old ladies walk around in small bikinis trying to get redder – let alone half naked. But Europeans/ Greeks seem to not be perturbed about sharing their bodies. Apart from the topless beaches (and I should add, its not the young fit women who are topless, it is the overweight middle aged ladies, and also that at the beaches, its mostly foreigners and not Greeks), but also the clothing. All the clothing here is skin tight. The jeans are “skinny fit” and the tops are clingy. And in general, people all wear this style, regardless of their personal body type and what might fit them better. The other thing that is really popular is to wear a belt, and to wear “gladiator” sandals, or heels. Also, I have only seen one woman with flat-ironed hair; most women just wear it natural.
Now that I am completely fried, Paula, Sarah and I are going to get gyros for dinner, and then I am going to re-lather on the aloe for the third time. Then we are having gellato – cake (like ice cream cake) for Rob's daughter's 5th birthday. Only 4 more days after today till I go home!!
Yay! The most important thing that happened today was that I got a card from Abe :) He is so sweet!!
Besides that, we had a “free day” today. Paula, Sarah, Casey, Austin and I all took the 10am bus to Tolo. Everyone one else was too lazy to get up and go. It cost 1.4 euro one way and was a quick 30 minute bus ride. We got off right at the beach, and I jumped into the water. Oh man, it was cold, but it felt good. I've never actually spent a day at the beach just tanning and laying in the sun before. But, being with some “girly girls” I thought I would give it a try. It was overrated. I did like laying in the sun, and swimming in the sea, and it was gorgeous, but just laying around to turn into a tomato seemed a little silly to me.
Oh, and to Abe, you asked if I'd been to a nude beach, well... this wasn't entirely nude, but there were a lot of (older) women walking around topless. Now, I do not wish to appear to have a “closed mind”, but I suspect I am not the only one who considers it bad enough to see fat old ladies walk around in small bikinis trying to get redder – let alone half naked. But Europeans/ Greeks seem to not be perturbed about sharing their bodies. Apart from the topless beaches (and I should add, its not the young fit women who are topless, it is the overweight middle aged ladies, and also that at the beaches, its mostly foreigners and not Greeks), but also the clothing. All the clothing here is skin tight. The jeans are “skinny fit” and the tops are clingy. And in general, people all wear this style, regardless of their personal body type and what might fit them better. The other thing that is really popular is to wear a belt, and to wear “gladiator” sandals, or heels. Also, I have only seen one woman with flat-ironed hair; most women just wear it natural.
Now that I am completely fried, Paula, Sarah and I are going to get gyros for dinner, and then I am going to re-lather on the aloe for the third time. Then we are having gellato – cake (like ice cream cake) for Rob's daughter's 5th birthday. Only 4 more days after today till I go home!!
More Food for Thought: A Tale of Two Professors
More Food For Thought: A Tale of Two Professors
Its been interesting to watch our professors and how the trip progresses. On the one hand, there is Rob: straight laced, by the book, very professional. Picture hair always combed, shirt always tucked in. Then there is Andy. Andy has been a lot more relaxed the whole trip. He drinks nightly; beer, wine, ouzo... And it doesn't seem to bother him. But I think it bothers Rob. Rob seems to have taken on a lot more responsibility, and is always the one in charge. Rob also seems more stressed than normal. I know he is not at home and so is stressed some from a new environment, but it seems like having to bear more of the responsibility burden would also take a toll.
I am also amazed at the other students, at least sometimes. Everyone except Paula and myself has gone out drinking on this trip. Now, not to come off as a prude, I mean, I am all for drinking and such, but to me it just seems inappropriate on a class trip. I mean, its supposed to be academic, and I (and Paula) for two, just think its not the appropriate time or place for drunkenness. We talked about it a little too, and we decided that a combination of Andy and Rob's cavalier attitudes as well as Andy's drinking have contributed to the group's increased willingness to drink. And not only that, just talking about it constantly. Talking about how much they drank, and where they went; I think it makes Rob uncomfortable. But neither professor will say anything. I can't quite figure it out. 6 more days till I see Abe! (counting the return day).
Its been interesting to watch our professors and how the trip progresses. On the one hand, there is Rob: straight laced, by the book, very professional. Picture hair always combed, shirt always tucked in. Then there is Andy. Andy has been a lot more relaxed the whole trip. He drinks nightly; beer, wine, ouzo... And it doesn't seem to bother him. But I think it bothers Rob. Rob seems to have taken on a lot more responsibility, and is always the one in charge. Rob also seems more stressed than normal. I know he is not at home and so is stressed some from a new environment, but it seems like having to bear more of the responsibility burden would also take a toll.
I am also amazed at the other students, at least sometimes. Everyone except Paula and myself has gone out drinking on this trip. Now, not to come off as a prude, I mean, I am all for drinking and such, but to me it just seems inappropriate on a class trip. I mean, its supposed to be academic, and I (and Paula) for two, just think its not the appropriate time or place for drunkenness. We talked about it a little too, and we decided that a combination of Andy and Rob's cavalier attitudes as well as Andy's drinking have contributed to the group's increased willingness to drink. And not only that, just talking about it constantly. Talking about how much they drank, and where they went; I think it makes Rob uncomfortable. But neither professor will say anything. I can't quite figure it out. 6 more days till I see Abe! (counting the return day).
Day 11- Thurs. May 21
Day 11 (Thursday, May 21):
To start off the day, Paula and I walked to the grocery store to buy breakfast. After picking out my chocolate milk and banana, and Paula her food, we went to the checkout. Little did we know it was not going to be that easy :) There was no one there to check us out so we waited, expecting the woman 20 feet away to come and do it. She didn't. Three more people got in line, bringing the total to 5 persons in line. The lady finally meanders on up, and instead of checking us out, gets on the telly and starts chatting! The old man in line behind us does not take this kindly, and is able to yell at her in Greek – complete with hand gestures. Unfortunately, this does not appear to perturb the woman. After about another minute, she gets on the intercom, and calls up someone else to check us out! We wait, and someone else appears. There is a mutual groan as the phone rings and of course she answers it. Finally, we are able to pay for our stuff and leave. The differences between American and Greek grocery stores are profound. In America, checkers make fairly good pay and a grocery store can be a pretty darn good place to work for someone. Yet here they do not care, and freely provide incorrect change and poor service.
!t 9:30 we met, and group took the 10:00 bus to Mycenae. On the way I composed (yet another :) love letter to Abe on my i-pod.
Once at Mycenae (or Mykeneh), we had a guided tour. It was pretty neat, and both Paula and I were both excited for this excursion because the Mycenaeans were so powerful and important. (Think pre-history, and the Trojan War era). First, we visited what is supposedly Agamemnon's tomb. If you don't know, Agamemnon was the king who led the Trojan War effort. His brother the King of Sparta, sent him a message that his wife Helen (the Spartan king's wife) was “kidnapped” (i.e. she had run off with) Paris, the prince of the Trojans. So Agamemnon, desiring to help his brother, led the effort to reclaim Helen, (and conveniently capture the strategic city of Troy in the process), enlisting help from 22 city-states in the process. The tomb of Agamemnon was totally buried until the mid 1800's, when a German named Schleimann looked for Mycenae to excavate. I was also impressed by the use of triangle reliefs in the architecture; triangle shaped cutouts designed to relieve the pressure of the superstructure.
The Acropolis of Mycenae, as well as the tomb, are both impressive. The tomb is like a circular pyramid, (if that makes sense), and the stones are HUGE. The lintel stone is one of the largest I have ever seen. Even today, historians do not know how they moved the stones. Or cut them. For the tomb, the stones are all cut and are smooth blocks. For the walls of the acropolis, the Ancient Greeks called the the “Cyclopean Walls” after the cyclops because they could not think of any way all the giant stones could be moved and assembled unless they were moved by the cyclops. (The stones in the cyclopean wall were not all uniform like the tomb but still impressive). The other neat thing about the area was the lion carving on the relief above the entryway. Remember, all this was built in the 12th century BC!!! How amazing is that!! While Greece did not have lions, even 3 thousand years ago, the Mycenaeans were trading in a massive area. Trading remains of the Mycenaeans have been found in such far flung locations as Egypt in Africa (hence the exposure to lions), with Afghanistan, Spain, England, Finland, and of course all around the Mediterranean Sea.
We also went down (and I do mean down) to the cistern, or water supply. You go down this dark, deep, long staircase – in the dark. Luckily Rob (our professor), had a flashlight, so we had some, but not much, light. I kept my hand on Paula's shoulder the whole time because I couldn't see a thing! But that was really cool. The other thing that should be noted is that this whole time the wind was HOWLING. I mean, sailors only hope for winds this good. Like 50 knots! It was insane. My hat got blown off, and I ended up carrying it, and both my professors' hats blew off too. Even the spiders were trying to hide form the wind. It was blowing so hard if you turned your back to it and leaned backwards, you could go for a few inches because the wind was so strong it would support you. The wind snatched words from our lips as soon as we spoke.
After we got back, I woke Abe up :) and we video chatted for an hour. It was wonderful :) Love you Abe!! Then time for a dinner of greek salad on the waterfront, watching the world go round. Then Paula and Sarah and I went to the grocery store to get food since we won't be fed tomorrow, or Sat. really. I just got some yoghurt and juice.
Finally, Paula and I relaxed by watching a movie tonight, “Twilight Zone: The Movie,” and it was entirely too scary for me! And now, well, its after 11 and time for bed. Tomorrow, Paula, Sarah, and I, and probably Casey, are going to a town called Tolo and are going to investigate some Greek beach. Then Saturday, we leave for Delphi. Its a 6-7 hour bus ride, but luckily it will be broken up by a stop in Thermopilae. Until next time... :)
To start off the day, Paula and I walked to the grocery store to buy breakfast. After picking out my chocolate milk and banana, and Paula her food, we went to the checkout. Little did we know it was not going to be that easy :) There was no one there to check us out so we waited, expecting the woman 20 feet away to come and do it. She didn't. Three more people got in line, bringing the total to 5 persons in line. The lady finally meanders on up, and instead of checking us out, gets on the telly and starts chatting! The old man in line behind us does not take this kindly, and is able to yell at her in Greek – complete with hand gestures. Unfortunately, this does not appear to perturb the woman. After about another minute, she gets on the intercom, and calls up someone else to check us out! We wait, and someone else appears. There is a mutual groan as the phone rings and of course she answers it. Finally, we are able to pay for our stuff and leave. The differences between American and Greek grocery stores are profound. In America, checkers make fairly good pay and a grocery store can be a pretty darn good place to work for someone. Yet here they do not care, and freely provide incorrect change and poor service.
!t 9:30 we met, and group took the 10:00 bus to Mycenae. On the way I composed (yet another :) love letter to Abe on my i-pod.
Once at Mycenae (or Mykeneh), we had a guided tour. It was pretty neat, and both Paula and I were both excited for this excursion because the Mycenaeans were so powerful and important. (Think pre-history, and the Trojan War era). First, we visited what is supposedly Agamemnon's tomb. If you don't know, Agamemnon was the king who led the Trojan War effort. His brother the King of Sparta, sent him a message that his wife Helen (the Spartan king's wife) was “kidnapped” (i.e. she had run off with) Paris, the prince of the Trojans. So Agamemnon, desiring to help his brother, led the effort to reclaim Helen, (and conveniently capture the strategic city of Troy in the process), enlisting help from 22 city-states in the process. The tomb of Agamemnon was totally buried until the mid 1800's, when a German named Schleimann looked for Mycenae to excavate. I was also impressed by the use of triangle reliefs in the architecture; triangle shaped cutouts designed to relieve the pressure of the superstructure.
The Acropolis of Mycenae, as well as the tomb, are both impressive. The tomb is like a circular pyramid, (if that makes sense), and the stones are HUGE. The lintel stone is one of the largest I have ever seen. Even today, historians do not know how they moved the stones. Or cut them. For the tomb, the stones are all cut and are smooth blocks. For the walls of the acropolis, the Ancient Greeks called the the “Cyclopean Walls” after the cyclops because they could not think of any way all the giant stones could be moved and assembled unless they were moved by the cyclops. (The stones in the cyclopean wall were not all uniform like the tomb but still impressive). The other neat thing about the area was the lion carving on the relief above the entryway. Remember, all this was built in the 12th century BC!!! How amazing is that!! While Greece did not have lions, even 3 thousand years ago, the Mycenaeans were trading in a massive area. Trading remains of the Mycenaeans have been found in such far flung locations as Egypt in Africa (hence the exposure to lions), with Afghanistan, Spain, England, Finland, and of course all around the Mediterranean Sea.
We also went down (and I do mean down) to the cistern, or water supply. You go down this dark, deep, long staircase – in the dark. Luckily Rob (our professor), had a flashlight, so we had some, but not much, light. I kept my hand on Paula's shoulder the whole time because I couldn't see a thing! But that was really cool. The other thing that should be noted is that this whole time the wind was HOWLING. I mean, sailors only hope for winds this good. Like 50 knots! It was insane. My hat got blown off, and I ended up carrying it, and both my professors' hats blew off too. Even the spiders were trying to hide form the wind. It was blowing so hard if you turned your back to it and leaned backwards, you could go for a few inches because the wind was so strong it would support you. The wind snatched words from our lips as soon as we spoke.
After we got back, I woke Abe up :) and we video chatted for an hour. It was wonderful :) Love you Abe!! Then time for a dinner of greek salad on the waterfront, watching the world go round. Then Paula and Sarah and I went to the grocery store to get food since we won't be fed tomorrow, or Sat. really. I just got some yoghurt and juice.
Finally, Paula and I relaxed by watching a movie tonight, “Twilight Zone: The Movie,” and it was entirely too scary for me! And now, well, its after 11 and time for bed. Tomorrow, Paula, Sarah, and I, and probably Casey, are going to a town called Tolo and are going to investigate some Greek beach. Then Saturday, we leave for Delphi. Its a 6-7 hour bus ride, but luckily it will be broken up by a stop in Thermopilae. Until next time... :)
Day 10- Wed. May 20
Day 10 (Wednesday, May 20):
I'll just come out and say it. I'm getting resentful. The trip is loosing its fun (apart from not having Abe around). My dear professors are doing a darn good job of running us students ragged... yes Abe, that is quite true. I'm exhausted— and I (along with my friend Paula) – are the sane ones. We aren't drinking, partying, clubbing, and staying up late. I don't even know how are the other students are doing it. And if us two, getting more sleep and behaving dramatically more decently and maturely than the others, well, if WE are exhausted, that just shows how much they are pushing us. If that doesn't sound to like that would be in any way, fun, well you are right. It is more like work!
Now, while I didn't expect that I would spend the whole time on the beach (I know some of you, cough cough “Abe”), had the impression that I would have all kinds of time to laze around working on my paper and writing home in between sun bathing and chatting with Paula and making plans for the near future.... well, that is NOT the case!!!
I've been stressed about working on my paper, too. I thought I would have at least some time to work on it, but I haven't been working on it because we're being run completely ragged seeing different places and constantly changing location. And to clarify my complaint: ravel isn't bad – not treating your body well is bad.
I am so tired, and so hot, and so, well, frustrated at not having any rest!! Today we went to Epivadros, an ancient Greek hospital and theater, which was neat, but I was so miserable from the heat and lack of sleep all I wanted to do was rest. I definitely feel like we are missing out by always having to “go-go-go.” Today was also the worst food we had the whole trip. Burnt hamburger meat and mayo pretending to be tadziki, with bad french fries. Yuck. Even the greek salad wasn't that good. I will not make the mistake of trusting the food opinion of those persons who ate there last night ever again.
I have decided I am taking tomorrow off.
P.S. On the plus side, for 2.50 euro, I bought a bottle of extra virgin olive oil that would have cost me over $10 USD. Sweet! And, Abe sent me (another :) absolutely wonderful love letter. Man do I love that man!!!
I'll just come out and say it. I'm getting resentful. The trip is loosing its fun (apart from not having Abe around). My dear professors are doing a darn good job of running us students ragged... yes Abe, that is quite true. I'm exhausted— and I (along with my friend Paula) – are the sane ones. We aren't drinking, partying, clubbing, and staying up late. I don't even know how are the other students are doing it. And if us two, getting more sleep and behaving dramatically more decently and maturely than the others, well, if WE are exhausted, that just shows how much they are pushing us. If that doesn't sound to like that would be in any way, fun, well you are right. It is more like work!
Now, while I didn't expect that I would spend the whole time on the beach (I know some of you, cough cough “Abe”), had the impression that I would have all kinds of time to laze around working on my paper and writing home in between sun bathing and chatting with Paula and making plans for the near future.... well, that is NOT the case!!!
I've been stressed about working on my paper, too. I thought I would have at least some time to work on it, but I haven't been working on it because we're being run completely ragged seeing different places and constantly changing location. And to clarify my complaint: ravel isn't bad – not treating your body well is bad.
I am so tired, and so hot, and so, well, frustrated at not having any rest!! Today we went to Epivadros, an ancient Greek hospital and theater, which was neat, but I was so miserable from the heat and lack of sleep all I wanted to do was rest. I definitely feel like we are missing out by always having to “go-go-go.” Today was also the worst food we had the whole trip. Burnt hamburger meat and mayo pretending to be tadziki, with bad french fries. Yuck. Even the greek salad wasn't that good. I will not make the mistake of trusting the food opinion of those persons who ate there last night ever again.
I have decided I am taking tomorrow off.
P.S. On the plus side, for 2.50 euro, I bought a bottle of extra virgin olive oil that would have cost me over $10 USD. Sweet! And, Abe sent me (another :) absolutely wonderful love letter. Man do I love that man!!!
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Your comments
I love reading all your comments and emails. Its almost like a converstation -- and I love hearing your perspectives and observations.
I love and miss you!! (Yes all of you... :)
~Nicole~
I love and miss you!! (Yes all of you... :)
~Nicole~
Thoughts
Thoughts:
One of the things that has surprised me about this trip the most is how incredibly dirty Greece is. As a part of the EU, I guess I had expected a lot more, and in reality, its gross. (It may be less gross for previous city dwellers, but its gross to me). There is trash everywhere, and graffiti on every building. Every other building is run-down. The glass in windows broken, plywood in windows, shutters broken/ dangling, rust, paint peeling; the middle of a city looks like a ghetto. And there are feral animals everywhere. Wild dogs and wild cats run rampant. Here in Nafplio, not an hour goes by without hearing a cat-fight, and you see them everywhere and anywhere you go in the city.
Another – albeit not necessarily negative – difference is the toilets here. They are all marked “WC” and the stalls seal completely. The walls and door all go to the ceiling. So it reduces purse theft, but also, um... well, it also holds in odors too. Also, the toilets have no seats! Its crazy; no lids, and no seats, so you just squat. And the flusher button is on top (sometimes you push, sometimes pull up), or on the floor (a foot operated lever). Every bathroom is an experience.
One of the things that has surprised me about this trip the most is how incredibly dirty Greece is. As a part of the EU, I guess I had expected a lot more, and in reality, its gross. (It may be less gross for previous city dwellers, but its gross to me). There is trash everywhere, and graffiti on every building. Every other building is run-down. The glass in windows broken, plywood in windows, shutters broken/ dangling, rust, paint peeling; the middle of a city looks like a ghetto. And there are feral animals everywhere. Wild dogs and wild cats run rampant. Here in Nafplio, not an hour goes by without hearing a cat-fight, and you see them everywhere and anywhere you go in the city.
Another – albeit not necessarily negative – difference is the toilets here. They are all marked “WC” and the stalls seal completely. The walls and door all go to the ceiling. So it reduces purse theft, but also, um... well, it also holds in odors too. Also, the toilets have no seats! Its crazy; no lids, and no seats, so you just squat. And the flusher button is on top (sometimes you push, sometimes pull up), or on the floor (a foot operated lever). Every bathroom is an experience.
Day 9 - Tuesday May 19
Day 9 (Tuesday, May 19):
Today a little side note on the history of the hotel I am staying at. Its in the middle of the historical center of Nafplio, at the foot of the fort Akronafplia, and is exactly in front of Spiridona's church (the first governor of Greece was murdered there). When Naflion was the first capital shortly after Greece gained independence, the building of Hotel Byron was used as an embassy. It was then a private mansion until the second World War. From 1945 to 1975 it was a home for poor people, and then in 1990 it was converted into a hotel.
At breakfast today, the hotel staff looked at me like I was crazy. It was pretty funny. I asked for some orange juice and some cheese. They served a “continental breakfast”, i.e. bread and croissants. I didn't want anything else, but the man didn't believe me and kept asking. Then when he brought out a giant tray of bread for another girl, he looked at me and said, “This is how we eat breakfast here,” obviously trying to show me the error of my ways... :)
Later we walked up what is reported to be 999 steps to Fort Akronafplia, (actual count proabably 850 – 900). It was amazing. It was like one of the medieval castles you picture in England. Unfortunately I was tired, and feeling poorly, and it was cold and windy, so I only wandered for about an hour before returning to the hotel, and sneaking away from the ruins to rest. Its hard when we've been going for over a week now and we haven't had ANY days to just rest. My body is protesting.
After the ruins we had a picnic lunch and a short discussion. After which, at 4:30, I was finally able to take my nap, which felt very good. :)
Tomorrow we are going to Epivadros, and Thursday to Mycenae. I feel a little selfish, or bad, but its hard to keep going. After eating only bread and gelatto for days due to budgetary constraints, combined with constantly moving and not getting any free time to just rest, my body is protesting. I have hives all over. My hands, my feet, my arms, my legs, my toes. And bug bites that itch. My body aches from being tired too, and all I want is a day of rest! I don't know how everyone else is doing it. I feel like there isn't enough balance, but I am a little unsure of how to create it. We are scheduled for a “Free Day” on Friday, but to me that seems silly. Friday will be day 12 – I think that after almost 2 weeks, its a bit late to be “recuperating” and to think it will make it all better. I can tell already that I am going to need at least a week when I get back just sleeping in every day and eating either nothing to clear my system, or just broccoli in order to get back to a “normal” body status. I have been walking a ton, but my diet has been horrendous and I can tell I've gained weight. Traveling is HARD on your body. Uhg.
Today a little side note on the history of the hotel I am staying at. Its in the middle of the historical center of Nafplio, at the foot of the fort Akronafplia, and is exactly in front of Spiridona's church (the first governor of Greece was murdered there). When Naflion was the first capital shortly after Greece gained independence, the building of Hotel Byron was used as an embassy. It was then a private mansion until the second World War. From 1945 to 1975 it was a home for poor people, and then in 1990 it was converted into a hotel.
At breakfast today, the hotel staff looked at me like I was crazy. It was pretty funny. I asked for some orange juice and some cheese. They served a “continental breakfast”, i.e. bread and croissants. I didn't want anything else, but the man didn't believe me and kept asking. Then when he brought out a giant tray of bread for another girl, he looked at me and said, “This is how we eat breakfast here,” obviously trying to show me the error of my ways... :)
Later we walked up what is reported to be 999 steps to Fort Akronafplia, (actual count proabably 850 – 900). It was amazing. It was like one of the medieval castles you picture in England. Unfortunately I was tired, and feeling poorly, and it was cold and windy, so I only wandered for about an hour before returning to the hotel, and sneaking away from the ruins to rest. Its hard when we've been going for over a week now and we haven't had ANY days to just rest. My body is protesting.
After the ruins we had a picnic lunch and a short discussion. After which, at 4:30, I was finally able to take my nap, which felt very good. :)
Tomorrow we are going to Epivadros, and Thursday to Mycenae. I feel a little selfish, or bad, but its hard to keep going. After eating only bread and gelatto for days due to budgetary constraints, combined with constantly moving and not getting any free time to just rest, my body is protesting. I have hives all over. My hands, my feet, my arms, my legs, my toes. And bug bites that itch. My body aches from being tired too, and all I want is a day of rest! I don't know how everyone else is doing it. I feel like there isn't enough balance, but I am a little unsure of how to create it. We are scheduled for a “Free Day” on Friday, but to me that seems silly. Friday will be day 12 – I think that after almost 2 weeks, its a bit late to be “recuperating” and to think it will make it all better. I can tell already that I am going to need at least a week when I get back just sleeping in every day and eating either nothing to clear my system, or just broccoli in order to get back to a “normal” body status. I have been walking a ton, but my diet has been horrendous and I can tell I've gained weight. Traveling is HARD on your body. Uhg.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Day 8- Mon. May 18
Day 8 (Monday, May 18):
Today we left at 7:50am from Mystras, so we all had to rise early to be ready. Luckily it is so gorgeous and sunny and warm that this is not as much of a pain as it is in Bozeman, Montana. I gorged on the greek yogurt; mixing it with both honey and fig jam – yum!! And again, the ham and swiss (?) cheese, with hard boiled egg, kalamata olives, orange juice and cheese. Yesterday, peeling and eating the hard boiled egg that came in the little cup was, um, well, lets say challenging. I did much better today :) I was totally overstuffed, but oh my was it good!.
As we waited for the buses, I was expecting a traditional city bus. Slightly run-down, dirty, filled with smelly people. Greece overall is much dirtier and run-down than I had expected (Abe, not the use of the hyphen, lol :) ). So, I wasn't expecting much. But, of course, what pulls up is no run-of-the-mill bus; rather, it is an extremely nice large bus! The kind of really nice tour bus you see around. Long, sleek, air-conditioned, plush seats. I took a video, it was pretty ridiculous.
The bus ride through the countryside was uneventful. We went first from Mystras to Sparta, then transferred to another bus, rode to Tripoli, transferred again, and went to Napflio. We considered ourselves lucky to have everyone make every bus.
Nafplio is a very quaint town. It feels much more Italian, more Mediterranean that Athens. It still has its feral animals (which seem to be everywhere), but there are differences in architecture. Here, there are a lot more colonial style houses, and more “big-box” style buildings, with more square decorations and multi-colors, whereas in Athens there were a lot more small, narrow, (tall) buildings.
The main highlight of the day was the Italian Gelato Shop!!! Oh. My. It was, hands down, THE BEST ICE CREAM/ GELLATO EVER. PERIOD. Oh. My. Goodness. Paula and I were wandering around, and happened upon it. You wander in and are overtaken the the decorations. There is fruit and wine and flavoring and biscotti everywhere. Then, this middle-aged Italian man came up to us and gave us samples of the daily special. We were going to get one and split it... but it was just so good we each got our own. Oh, soooo gooooddd....!!!
I got a bowl with coconut (divine!), plum (amazing!!), chocolate with chiles (yum!!), and pineapple. All this absolute deliciousness was topped with the best homemade whipped cream I've ever had, a cherry, pieces of homemade ice-cream cone, and some yummy syrup. We were invited to sit, and were brought water and as soon as I had my first bite, well, lets just say I am CONVINCED that this gelato shop will be in heaven. I only wish I had the words to truly describe it. I decided I can no longer eat gelato on this trip after that. It would only be an insult.
Today we left at 7:50am from Mystras, so we all had to rise early to be ready. Luckily it is so gorgeous and sunny and warm that this is not as much of a pain as it is in Bozeman, Montana. I gorged on the greek yogurt; mixing it with both honey and fig jam – yum!! And again, the ham and swiss (?) cheese, with hard boiled egg, kalamata olives, orange juice and cheese. Yesterday, peeling and eating the hard boiled egg that came in the little cup was, um, well, lets say challenging. I did much better today :) I was totally overstuffed, but oh my was it good!.
As we waited for the buses, I was expecting a traditional city bus. Slightly run-down, dirty, filled with smelly people. Greece overall is much dirtier and run-down than I had expected (Abe, not the use of the hyphen, lol :) ). So, I wasn't expecting much. But, of course, what pulls up is no run-of-the-mill bus; rather, it is an extremely nice large bus! The kind of really nice tour bus you see around. Long, sleek, air-conditioned, plush seats. I took a video, it was pretty ridiculous.
The bus ride through the countryside was uneventful. We went first from Mystras to Sparta, then transferred to another bus, rode to Tripoli, transferred again, and went to Napflio. We considered ourselves lucky to have everyone make every bus.
Nafplio is a very quaint town. It feels much more Italian, more Mediterranean that Athens. It still has its feral animals (which seem to be everywhere), but there are differences in architecture. Here, there are a lot more colonial style houses, and more “big-box” style buildings, with more square decorations and multi-colors, whereas in Athens there were a lot more small, narrow, (tall) buildings.
The main highlight of the day was the Italian Gelato Shop!!! Oh. My. It was, hands down, THE BEST ICE CREAM/ GELLATO EVER. PERIOD. Oh. My. Goodness. Paula and I were wandering around, and happened upon it. You wander in and are overtaken the the decorations. There is fruit and wine and flavoring and biscotti everywhere. Then, this middle-aged Italian man came up to us and gave us samples of the daily special. We were going to get one and split it... but it was just so good we each got our own. Oh, soooo gooooddd....!!!
I got a bowl with coconut (divine!), plum (amazing!!), chocolate with chiles (yum!!), and pineapple. All this absolute deliciousness was topped with the best homemade whipped cream I've ever had, a cherry, pieces of homemade ice-cream cone, and some yummy syrup. We were invited to sit, and were brought water and as soon as I had my first bite, well, lets just say I am CONVINCED that this gelato shop will be in heaven. I only wish I had the words to truly describe it. I decided I can no longer eat gelato on this trip after that. It would only be an insult.
Day 7- Sun. May 17
Day 7 (Sunday, May 17): Mythos
In the morning today, I was able to chat with Abe online. Its so nice being able to stay in touch after not having access to wi-fi. This trip has been a really good growing point for our relationship. Its a challenge to maintain a relationship from afar. We are both learning a lot about ourselves and each other. Both what we individually need to feel loved, and how to make the other person feel loved when we aren't physically present is really teaching us a lot.
After that, the whole class trouped on up to the Mythos ruins. They are sooo cool! They city was built into the side of a hill to provide better fortification. There is an initial wall with one gate that you enter through. The immediate ruins there are residences. People who lived there were city officials and the like. Above that, there is a second wall. Aristocrats and the really important people lived behind that wall. There is a cobbled street that runs through it all. It is a BAD road. Its so lumpy and uncomfortable, but neat too. Apparently clear roads were very important to the Byzantines, so there were laws banning people from obstructing the roads. There couldn't be dead animals, hangings or arguments in the streets. Huh, eh?
The ruins were post- Ancient Greek, and post- Roman. They were Byzantine empire, post 7th century, and a lot was from 14th to 15th century. Somehow I got separated from Paula so I wandered about with my professors. It was neat to be able to share at least some of my thoughts and observations with people. Normally I do that with Abe, and I must admit, I really miss being able to share things with him. I see something really neat and I turn to say something, and he is not there. Its disconcerting at times.
The city was built using Roman era ruins of Sparta, 6 kilometers away, and it was really interesting to see how they used the Greek marble in places. Another interesting difference from the Greek ruins was that the Greeks like to carve their marble and embellish with carving and paint. During the Byzantine era, they decorated with the masonry. Old red tile shingles were laid out in patterns, and sometimes the bricks in buildings were in patterns. In the churches/ chapels there were mosaics in floor and the walls – made of cement and stone masonry – were plastered over and painted. Everything inside was painted. It was incredible how no space was un-decorated and to think of the time it would take! The detail.
When we finally got to the top, it was an incredible view. It took several hours, as it was one kilometer from our hotel to the base, then 5 +/- to the top – then back again! But it was so worth it. On one side, you could see the plains stretching on as far as the eye could see. Then on the other side were majestic cliffs, snow topped mountains, and wooded hillsides. It was so incredibly beautiful its hard to express. A wonderful day.
In the morning today, I was able to chat with Abe online. Its so nice being able to stay in touch after not having access to wi-fi. This trip has been a really good growing point for our relationship. Its a challenge to maintain a relationship from afar. We are both learning a lot about ourselves and each other. Both what we individually need to feel loved, and how to make the other person feel loved when we aren't physically present is really teaching us a lot.
After that, the whole class trouped on up to the Mythos ruins. They are sooo cool! They city was built into the side of a hill to provide better fortification. There is an initial wall with one gate that you enter through. The immediate ruins there are residences. People who lived there were city officials and the like. Above that, there is a second wall. Aristocrats and the really important people lived behind that wall. There is a cobbled street that runs through it all. It is a BAD road. Its so lumpy and uncomfortable, but neat too. Apparently clear roads were very important to the Byzantines, so there were laws banning people from obstructing the roads. There couldn't be dead animals, hangings or arguments in the streets. Huh, eh?
The ruins were post- Ancient Greek, and post- Roman. They were Byzantine empire, post 7th century, and a lot was from 14th to 15th century. Somehow I got separated from Paula so I wandered about with my professors. It was neat to be able to share at least some of my thoughts and observations with people. Normally I do that with Abe, and I must admit, I really miss being able to share things with him. I see something really neat and I turn to say something, and he is not there. Its disconcerting at times.
The city was built using Roman era ruins of Sparta, 6 kilometers away, and it was really interesting to see how they used the Greek marble in places. Another interesting difference from the Greek ruins was that the Greeks like to carve their marble and embellish with carving and paint. During the Byzantine era, they decorated with the masonry. Old red tile shingles were laid out in patterns, and sometimes the bricks in buildings were in patterns. In the churches/ chapels there were mosaics in floor and the walls – made of cement and stone masonry – were plastered over and painted. Everything inside was painted. It was incredible how no space was un-decorated and to think of the time it would take! The detail.
When we finally got to the top, it was an incredible view. It took several hours, as it was one kilometer from our hotel to the base, then 5 +/- to the top – then back again! But it was so worth it. On one side, you could see the plains stretching on as far as the eye could see. Then on the other side were majestic cliffs, snow topped mountains, and wooded hillsides. It was so incredibly beautiful its hard to express. A wonderful day.
Day 6- Sat. May 16
Day 6 (Saturday, May 16): Athens
Saturday we had a LONG bus ride. We chartered a bus from Athens to go to Sparta, and then Mystras. The countryside was filled with a lot of olive trees, brush, tall grasses, and rolling green hills.
We stopped in Corinth on the way, and walked out over the Corith Canal. Its quite famous, but rather unpretentious in person. It was started in the 7th century but was never finished until the 19th century by the French (hello, dynamite?) It is VERY deep, 300 feet down, and maybe 70 feet across. And what most impressive is its length. It spans the entire peninsula – quite the feat.
At Sparta, we looked at the arena where they trained, and then walked to their theater and acropolis. Its amazing how unimpressive the whole place is. If people had not written about the Spartans, there certainly isn't really anything to indicate how powerful they were. The theater was one of my favorite sites so far though. Its in a field of wildflowers surrounded by mountains.
On the way up, we got a surprise, too. We were walking by a school, and we heard a weird noise. – it was a peacock! They had a pretty pimp school-yard though. Palm trees, tons of grass, toys, and a peacock wandering around. Pretty cool :)
We finally made it to Mystras, but it was a white-knuckle bus ride! The bus driver – this crazy white haired old Greek man, just kept driving fast around every corner, honking as he went. He tried to turn around too, on the super tiny mountain roads, in this giant bus – we all thought we might be backed off a cliff. Then we had to negotiate around another bus! Yikes! Neeedless to say we were all quite relieved to be done.
Finally, we checked into our hotel, which was very nice, and had late lunch/ early dinner at a really nice cafe where the owner had a cute little male long haired terrier type dog with a blue bow in its hair. And one of the guys Ryan got scared when a (very large, 1.5 inch?) beetle landed on him. So of course, he starts, makes a noise, throws it onto my friend Paula, and sends the whole table to shrieking, and subsequent laughter. It was pretty funny.
Saturday we had a LONG bus ride. We chartered a bus from Athens to go to Sparta, and then Mystras. The countryside was filled with a lot of olive trees, brush, tall grasses, and rolling green hills.
We stopped in Corinth on the way, and walked out over the Corith Canal. Its quite famous, but rather unpretentious in person. It was started in the 7th century but was never finished until the 19th century by the French (hello, dynamite?) It is VERY deep, 300 feet down, and maybe 70 feet across. And what most impressive is its length. It spans the entire peninsula – quite the feat.
At Sparta, we looked at the arena where they trained, and then walked to their theater and acropolis. Its amazing how unimpressive the whole place is. If people had not written about the Spartans, there certainly isn't really anything to indicate how powerful they were. The theater was one of my favorite sites so far though. Its in a field of wildflowers surrounded by mountains.
On the way up, we got a surprise, too. We were walking by a school, and we heard a weird noise. – it was a peacock! They had a pretty pimp school-yard though. Palm trees, tons of grass, toys, and a peacock wandering around. Pretty cool :)
We finally made it to Mystras, but it was a white-knuckle bus ride! The bus driver – this crazy white haired old Greek man, just kept driving fast around every corner, honking as he went. He tried to turn around too, on the super tiny mountain roads, in this giant bus – we all thought we might be backed off a cliff. Then we had to negotiate around another bus! Yikes! Neeedless to say we were all quite relieved to be done.
Finally, we checked into our hotel, which was very nice, and had late lunch/ early dinner at a really nice cafe where the owner had a cute little male long haired terrier type dog with a blue bow in its hair. And one of the guys Ryan got scared when a (very large, 1.5 inch?) beetle landed on him. So of course, he starts, makes a noise, throws it onto my friend Paula, and sends the whole table to shrieking, and subsequent laughter. It was pretty funny.
Day 5- Fri. May 15
Day 5 (Friday, May 15): Athens
Archeological Museum
metro and bus to beach
(Will do later).
Archeological Museum
metro and bus to beach
(Will do later).
Day 4- Thurs. May 14
Day 4 (Thursday, May 14): Athens.
Thursday we went on an all day tour of the Acropolis, Parthenon, Agona, and around "old Athens" with this amazing tour guide named Helen. I'll write about this later.
Thursday we went on an all day tour of the Acropolis, Parthenon, Agona, and around "old Athens" with this amazing tour guide named Helen. I'll write about this later.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Day 3- Wed. May 13
Day 3 (Wednesday, May 13): Athens
In the morning I go out on my own at 8:00 am to check out what Athens has to offer. No one else is awake because most of the group got in at about 2 am or are getting in this morning, so I'm on my own. As I walk around, its very quite because, as I came to learn, no one seems to get up early in Greece! While there is some activity, most people seem to begin moving around 10am. So I thoroughly enjoy the quiet and the warmth of the sun as I wander and explore. I went past the Agora, but it was still locked up, so I kept walking up to the Acropolis. I thought it would be a lot farther to walk, but it was surprisingly close. The main problem was just that there were practically no signs at all. I mean, on the one hand, its hard to miss the Acropolis; I mean, its huge, white, and on top of a giant hill. On the other hand, the streets are a literal maze, and its so easy to get confused and lost. But I meet a nice Israeli couple on my wandering, and we chatted for a minute, and managed to get both lost together, then find our way to the base of the “Acropoli”. I bought my ticket, and was amazed by the throngs of people there. Its amazing how difficult it can be to do simple things like buy a ticket when you don't speak the language and there are no signs. I attempted to ask several people how to buy a tickets but they each pointed a different buildings! (All of which were, of course, the incorrect building). After 10 to 15 minutes I finally located the ticket office and purchased my fare. As you walk up the stone walkway you are surrounded by olive trees. The first thing you come to is actually not Greek – its a Roman theater. Then you come around a bend and are just bombarded. Its overwhelming the initial view of the great marble steps, and the giant columns. Everything is just so impressive. As I walked around all the buildings. After the entryway, there is the Acropolis, the temple to Athena, and the temple to Poseidon. Off to the side there is an ancient Greek hospital, and a theater. (I'm too tired to typing to describe more, will do later!)
After that I walked through the Agora, the stoas, and the temple of the fire god. After a brief stop at the hotel to eat the sandwich I made at breakfast, in the afternoon I head off to Monastiraki Square. The square is a bustle of activity. Small shops line every side, and the entrance to the flea market is off the main square There are a million SMALL alleyways leading in every-which-way direction. They are filled with all kinds of shops. T-shirts shops, jewelery, butchers, clothes, furniture, sunglasses, food and tons of cafes. And all the cafe workers stand at the entrance to their restaurants and yell/ talk/ entice you to enter. Its funny because they all have menus outside their shops so you can see what food they have and how much it costs. But you don't dare go near because you will never escape!
In the morning I go out on my own at 8:00 am to check out what Athens has to offer. No one else is awake because most of the group got in at about 2 am or are getting in this morning, so I'm on my own. As I walk around, its very quite because, as I came to learn, no one seems to get up early in Greece! While there is some activity, most people seem to begin moving around 10am. So I thoroughly enjoy the quiet and the warmth of the sun as I wander and explore. I went past the Agora, but it was still locked up, so I kept walking up to the Acropolis. I thought it would be a lot farther to walk, but it was surprisingly close. The main problem was just that there were practically no signs at all. I mean, on the one hand, its hard to miss the Acropolis; I mean, its huge, white, and on top of a giant hill. On the other hand, the streets are a literal maze, and its so easy to get confused and lost. But I meet a nice Israeli couple on my wandering, and we chatted for a minute, and managed to get both lost together, then find our way to the base of the “Acropoli”. I bought my ticket, and was amazed by the throngs of people there. Its amazing how difficult it can be to do simple things like buy a ticket when you don't speak the language and there are no signs. I attempted to ask several people how to buy a tickets but they each pointed a different buildings! (All of which were, of course, the incorrect building). After 10 to 15 minutes I finally located the ticket office and purchased my fare. As you walk up the stone walkway you are surrounded by olive trees. The first thing you come to is actually not Greek – its a Roman theater. Then you come around a bend and are just bombarded. Its overwhelming the initial view of the great marble steps, and the giant columns. Everything is just so impressive. As I walked around all the buildings. After the entryway, there is the Acropolis, the temple to Athena, and the temple to Poseidon. Off to the side there is an ancient Greek hospital, and a theater. (I'm too tired to typing to describe more, will do later!)
After that I walked through the Agora, the stoas, and the temple of the fire god. After a brief stop at the hotel to eat the sandwich I made at breakfast, in the afternoon I head off to Monastiraki Square. The square is a bustle of activity. Small shops line every side, and the entrance to the flea market is off the main square There are a million SMALL alleyways leading in every-which-way direction. They are filled with all kinds of shops. T-shirts shops, jewelery, butchers, clothes, furniture, sunglasses, food and tons of cafes. And all the cafe workers stand at the entrance to their restaurants and yell/ talk/ entice you to enter. Its funny because they all have menus outside their shops so you can see what food they have and how much it costs. But you don't dare go near because you will never escape!
Day 2- Tues. May 12
Day 2 (Tuesday, May 12): Arrival in Athens
I arrived in Athens at 4:50 Tuesday afternoon completely exhausted. No real sleep for 2 days wears a person down. But I was soooo excited to finally BE IN GREECE. To be here, home of the Greeks, the place I've learned about since I was little, was so thrilling. I met Rob (one of my professors) and his mother Irene at the airport. They had just arrived. Off we proceeded on our adventure into Athens. (The airport is several miles away). First, we followed signs to the metro. The plan was to take the metro and subway... and Rob assured us he had “done this before” when he was in Greece two years previous. What fatal words.
We actually first took a train. We bought our ticket and validated it, then again followed signs to a train station several hundred yards away, up and down several hundred feet of stairs. We mistakenly rode the train a stop too far, so we had to return and have a do-over. It was getting hard to figure out how to read Greek train station timetables when faint from hunger, but luckily Rob had some chocolate, so I survived. :) From the train, we rode a subway to our hotel. I was too tired in the moment, but I realized later it was the first subway I've ever rode. Kind of funny they haven't been utilized in any of the places I've lived or been to.
When we came out of the subway station, I found myself in the middle of a crazy, bustling square. (Monastiraki Square). There is a 10th/ 11th century church in the middle, built of stones and tiles and a hodgepodge of items all held together with mortar all jumbled together.
I arrived in Athens at 4:50 Tuesday afternoon completely exhausted. No real sleep for 2 days wears a person down. But I was soooo excited to finally BE IN GREECE. To be here, home of the Greeks, the place I've learned about since I was little, was so thrilling. I met Rob (one of my professors) and his mother Irene at the airport. They had just arrived. Off we proceeded on our adventure into Athens. (The airport is several miles away). First, we followed signs to the metro. The plan was to take the metro and subway... and Rob assured us he had “done this before” when he was in Greece two years previous. What fatal words.
We actually first took a train. We bought our ticket and validated it, then again followed signs to a train station several hundred yards away, up and down several hundred feet of stairs. We mistakenly rode the train a stop too far, so we had to return and have a do-over. It was getting hard to figure out how to read Greek train station timetables when faint from hunger, but luckily Rob had some chocolate, so I survived. :) From the train, we rode a subway to our hotel. I was too tired in the moment, but I realized later it was the first subway I've ever rode. Kind of funny they haven't been utilized in any of the places I've lived or been to.
When we came out of the subway station, I found myself in the middle of a crazy, bustling square. (Monastiraki Square). There is a 10th/ 11th century church in the middle, built of stones and tiles and a hodgepodge of items all held together with mortar all jumbled together.
Day 1- My Trip Over
Day 1 (Monday, May 11): Departure
Apparently I have a knack for turning off the alarm in my sleep, so Abe and I woke up HORRIFIED!! Needless to say it was a stressful morning and I am merely glad to have survived it and made it to the airport. Whew!
After that, it was off to the races. I was originally going to work on my paper during my SLC layover, but there was no free wi-fi available, so instead I talked to Abe the whole time.
One thing that was really interesting was that in SLC I saw a bunch of young Mormons going on their Missions Trip (about 12). It was so fascinating. You could tell they were all so young, so new to the world. Most were guys, but there were a few girls. All dressed conservatively, and with their little name tags. It was so funny to observe them as they all busted about from SLC to Paris, and then they were off to Budapest.
The flight to Paris was uneventful. I enjoyed the luxury(?) of having 2 seats to myself so I could “stretch out” and “sleep”. Ha!
Either way, I made it to Paris, and the airport was so neat- and huge. It must be miles and miles long. It stretched out so far I couldn't see the end and it took at least 15 minutes at a fast clip to get to my new gate. I ran through most of it because I only had an hour layover and I didn't want to miss my plane. I went through customs and added another stamp to my passport. After passing through, in the middle of the airport, there is a giant glass cut out. Everything is modern style “raw”. There is a large concrete platform suspended by exposed cables. There were a few benches and people just hanging out. Below this platform was a train station. I thought it was so neat that you could get so easily from the airport to the city. I made a mental note to return to Paris. Mariah???? When do you want to go?
PS- for my mother: I brought ONLY a back-pack. And it was NOT completely filled. :)
Apparently I have a knack for turning off the alarm in my sleep, so Abe and I woke up HORRIFIED!! Needless to say it was a stressful morning and I am merely glad to have survived it and made it to the airport. Whew!
After that, it was off to the races. I was originally going to work on my paper during my SLC layover, but there was no free wi-fi available, so instead I talked to Abe the whole time.
One thing that was really interesting was that in SLC I saw a bunch of young Mormons going on their Missions Trip (about 12). It was so fascinating. You could tell they were all so young, so new to the world. Most were guys, but there were a few girls. All dressed conservatively, and with their little name tags. It was so funny to observe them as they all busted about from SLC to Paris, and then they were off to Budapest.
The flight to Paris was uneventful. I enjoyed the luxury(?) of having 2 seats to myself so I could “stretch out” and “sleep”. Ha!
Either way, I made it to Paris, and the airport was so neat- and huge. It must be miles and miles long. It stretched out so far I couldn't see the end and it took at least 15 minutes at a fast clip to get to my new gate. I ran through most of it because I only had an hour layover and I didn't want to miss my plane. I went through customs and added another stamp to my passport. After passing through, in the middle of the airport, there is a giant glass cut out. Everything is modern style “raw”. There is a large concrete platform suspended by exposed cables. There were a few benches and people just hanging out. Below this platform was a train station. I thought it was so neat that you could get so easily from the airport to the city. I made a mental note to return to Paris. Mariah???? When do you want to go?
PS- for my mother: I brought ONLY a back-pack. And it was NOT completely filled. :)
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