My Latest Exploits

Let me give you a rough synopsis of Greece. I spent 2 days in Athens, 5 days on a small and beautiful island called Santorini, and then another 2 days in Greece. The weather was very nice, even though it was starting to get into their "winter time." It wasn't hot, and the tourist season was on the decline for the year, making it a very enjoyable time on the island.

Athens was great. I loved the ruins and the history around it, particulary the museums I was able to frequent. The plaka, which was a busy district full of food, shopping, and tourist stands was always interesting to walk around, though it wasn't really representative of the rest of the city. Of course, the Acropolis and all of its ancient remains were quite amazing to look at. After seeing decaying Israelite ruins the whole semester, it was a nice break to see some pretty well-preserved Greek ruins.

Santorini is one of those picturesque small Greek islands with the white villages. Though it was a very tourist island, it had a small or almost personal feel to it. I suppose if the Midwest were a Greek island, it would be Santorini. It was also very beautiful, with the sea and its beaches of black and red sand. We were able to rent 4-wheelers and go explore the island one day. Also, we met a couple from Orange County who we affectionately called the T's and another lady from Australia on the island. We had a good time getting to know them and hanging out.

Here are some pictures from my latest exploits.

The Acropolis in all its glory.

After 2300 years, they are still not finished building the Parthenon, as you can clearly see from the scaffolding.

Me standing atop Mars Hill.

One of the great views on Santorini.

The black beach.

I have no idea what this place was supposed to be, but it was cool.

The village of Ia on the northern point of Santorini.

The sunset from Ia.

Sharing a communal dinner with our new friends.

I had a complicated relationship with the pigeons of Athens.