Blogs from Pláka, Athens, Attica, Greece, Europe - page 3

By taxi, by train and by plane, all modes of transport have lead us to Athens. And despite just about having to sell my kidney to pay the taxi fare from the airport I love it. Having visited years ago I had an impression of Athens based on that visit and on what I’ve read and gleaned and often and frequently the impression and the reality do not match. Here first impressions (after the airport in the middle of the night) do. The skyline from the rooftop garden of our hotel is the equal of any city vista I’ve seen anywhere. It is so evocative of so many concepts and I love it. It is truly inspiring. I’m eagerly anticipating a couple of walking tours I have booked and can’t wait to get amongst what the ... read more

Though I really enjoy visiting supermarkets in foreign countries, there are benefits to visiting domestic supermarkets as well. But the point is, do not overlook the supermarket for a worthwhile adventure while on the road. Over the years, we have discovered some really interesting gift items and experiences. One of my first visits in a foreign country was in London back in the 70s. I found the "Wagon Wheel" brand on boxes of produce. The Sorensen family were near and dear to our family since they managed my Grandmother's farm in Sanger when my family was sent to a WW2 Relocation Camp in Gila, Arizona. Sadly, I think the brand is gone, but the Sorensen's live on! Often times, I see our Kingsburg based Sun Maid brand of raisins in places all over the world, like ... read more

Most of us who are foodies know these things. But Food Travelist has listed them, just in case you did not get the memo. Who sent the memo? The ghost of Tony Bourdain, or Julia Child? Mr. Bizarre Foods, Andrew Zimmern? Beat Bobby Flay? Look for the lines Yes, the longest line usually means the best food. Or get there earlier tomorrow? Ask waiters and cabbies Just beware, they could be on the "payroll" of a restaurant. I always talk to the hotel people, and I shall reveal a secret, which you may find rather sensitive. I always ask a person of color for a local spot. Go for lunch Generally, it is cheaper than dinner. And the portions are more manageable. Lunch may also offer a "fixed price" menu as well. The Michaelin starred places ... read more

Since you have been reading my emails over the years, you know how much we enjoy walking big cities, and interesting towns. There is no better way to discover the culture and beauty of a place, save for a walking tour by a local. But, since I am not a tour guy, exploring on my own, or with Mr. Mike is the best alternative. What might some of those cities be? Over the years, some cities we have walked and explored: Bangkok, Hanoi, Santiago, Prague, Budapest, Warsaw, Vienna, Berlin, Sydney, Hong Kong, Cape Town, Seville, Lisboa, London, Athens, Istanbul, Tokyo, Buenos Aires, Medellin, Montreal, Quito, Vancouver, Amsterdam, and lately, Dubrovnik, Split, Belgrade, and Frankfurt. TravelAwaits has listed their nine most walkable cities. Amsterdam Though this city is known for its bicycles, it is enjoyable to walk, ... read more

Can you believe this? Over 6,000 islands that make up Greece’s landmass. The large number of islands is one of the factors that has contributed to grape variety diversity in the country. The number of ancient indigenous Greek varieties alone is estimated to be 80 to 200. Every year, hitherto unheard-of, nearly extinct grape varieties growing in some isolated parts of the country are discovered, propagated, and saved. (Winespeed) From my first visit to Greece in May, 2021: So, after spending nearly three weeks in Greece, I tried many wines. And I visited several wineries in Santorini, known for their famous Assyrtiko wines. BTW, it is pronounced "us-EAT-teeko" and has a definite "volcanic" taste, in other words, a quite pronounced minerality, for lack of a better term. Karen at Winespeed is spot on about this wine: ... read more