Blogs from Greece, Europe

Drove almost four hours from Delphi to Olympia in the Western Peloponnese. Rather nice drive through country that is noticeably less arid than Cyprus or Crete and more scenic. There are many olive trees and some grape vines, they even receive enough rain to grow hay, although for what we don't know, as have not seen one cow or horse. Olympia, while memorable, is less impressive that Delphi. It is thankfully, quite flat resulting is easy walking. Departing later today for Nafplion along with Epidavros where sits a reportedly exquisite ancient theatre and also Mycenae. Yes, finally come face to face with the folks who assisted in the destruction of the Minions and reputedly Troy as well. Neglected to mention earlier, but while the Olympic Games officially began during the early 8th century BC, the Mycenaeans ... read more

Yesterday we toured the quite amazing museum, while today a short drive to the place where a significant number of the items were recovered. The Palace is understandably not as impressive being a rather old fella-about 4,000 years old, and mom nature has labored during that time to reduce the once magnificent palace, an endeavor in which has been met with considerable success. Yet a sufficient amount remains to grasp the scale of this huge palace even if the luxurious trappings have long since disappeared. From the palace we attempted to proceed to Vathypetro where Bird had her heart set on viewing the world's oldest wine press. Alas, not to be. Google maps took us first through a village with extremely narrow streets then upping the ante with a dirt, rock and potholed "road" on which ... read more

Arrived here mid-afternoon on Saturday after a couple of stops along the way. The central feature is a small lake that communicates with the sea after a Turkish governor dug a short canal. The lake is actually quite attractive as lined by charming cafes and shops.... read more

Not sure we mentioned but it shouldn't rain here in the summer. Yet during our first ten days it rained three times including a flood while we drove from Sougia to Plakias with hail. Well, things have thankfully returned to normal as no rain since. Yay. Okay, now for the best experience thus far. We visited the Archaeological Museum to view information of the Minoan civilization, and we certainly were not disappointed. This is the best world class museum that we have never heard about. Artifacts are wonderfully curated beginning in prehistory extending to Roman arrival. In particular, however, this is the best presentation of the Minoan Civilization in the world from the early days during the late Third Millennium BC until it collapsed about 1450 BC. There are several theories regarding the collapse ranging from ... read more

Made it to Rethymnon where the chilly weather continues. However, forecast for Friday was initially 37, no not Fahrenheit, it's Celsius, which would be 99F. Yeah hot. It is Thursday as I now write this with the current forecast indicating we now will experience a cool 93. Bit of a change from our chilly days wouldn't you say? As for Rethymnon, yes certainly preferrable to Sougia or Plakais, yet it is no Chania. Overall, the island has underwhelmed us. Except for the superb food with cook-at-home prices. We recall a restaurant review where a guy complained of bill totaling 37 Euros (about $40.) where they had a starter, half carafe of wine and two entrees. Would you complain in the U.S.? Plus flavors are just wonderful here. Of course, we do not cook even when staying ... read more