Greek Holiday

A few days ago, I came back from visiting my 13^th country in Europe. According to my Google search there is approximately 50 European countries, therefore I have now visited ¼ of Europe.

My time in Greece was very much like I hope my time at home will be in 15 weeks. (Yes, 15 weeks! Less than 100 days now.) Greece reminded me a lot of home and Italy. It was a bittersweet visit full of familiar feelings and made me miss home just a bit more than already I do, if that is possible.We had a lot of coffee dates, meals at home, dinner outs, movie nights, running into many of Elpida’s friends, and lots of family time. I hope my time at home includes all of these things.

In Katerini

I had a true vacation in Greece. We had no schedule and we got to places when we got to places. That’s how it works.  I promise you once you land in Greece you should throw your watch out the window- no one follows the time! For instances, many nights I would be ready for bed at 10; while, Elpida’s brother and sisters were still up until 2 or 3. This is normal for Greeks. For students they seem to wake around 7 but for everyone else they woke when they wanted to. In the afternoon, we would have a nap and then be up until 12 or later. In Italy there are some similarities but it seemed more drastic in Greece. Like Italy, Greece has a time in the afternoon where shops close down and everyone takes a break. You will find that many of the small coffee bars in Katerini during this time are packed with people.

Coffee Dates after coffee dates. 

From the peer in Katerini

Our trip started by  flying into the coastal city, Thessaloniki. We had a cup of coffee by the sea before heading to Katerini, Elpida's hometown. It took 40 minutes for us to reach Katerini, another coastal town. Elpida’s father and brother picked us up from the bus station. As gentlemen, they took our bags but the hospitality did not stop there. 

Sipping on coffees before our bus. 

White Tower in Thessaloniki. 

Greeks are known for the hospitality but I wasn’t expecting the amount! We got there and before we knew it there was liquor in our hands, then lunch, which included a massive plate of meat and potatoes, and then cake, coffee, and chocolates! It was seriously unbelievably and delicious! Here are some photos of what we ate while in Greece. 

The rest of the trip included numerous extravagant meals and lots of coffee.  Like I said, we had no schedule but we did plan two days of activities. One day we visited the Monastery and spoke with the family monk. It was a neat experience but I wish he would of spoke more about faith and less about politics. The monastery itself is on Mt. Olympus. It has beautiful views and is incredibly peaceful.

I forgot to tell you that Elpida lives 1 kilometer from the sea and yet can still see the beautiful Mt. Olympus from her balcony. It really is a magical view waking up to! Greeks are very proud of their mountain. Greeks are very proud to be Greeks to begin with. It was nice to be in a country where they wave their flag as much as Americans.

In the background, you can see Mt. Olympus. 

Another day, we visited the old town. We got to see ruins of the town before. We saw the location of the temple, homes and baths. Elpida’s dad was very honored and excited to share this part of their history with us.

Our final day before heading to Thessaloniki to catch our flight, we stopped at a market. There were fresh spices, fish, vegetables, and olives. Lots of olives! On top of that, it was like going to a high school soccer game where you know everyone. You stop and say hello.

All in all, I can’t wait to return to Greece. Next I would like to travel to Athens and the blue roofs of Santorini. Until then... 

All my love. 

Morning workout by the sea.