Santorini

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Our next stop was Santorini. This is the famous resort island dedicated to food, drink, falling in love and SHOPPING.There are more stores per square foot on Santorini then anyplace in the known world, my opinion. They sell everything from cheap shirts to very expensive jewelry. Pottery, art and souvenirs.The shopping was acompanied by magnificant views of the blue Aegean Sea. The sights from the top of the volcanic island are breathtaking. Of course the day started with a little adventure. The boat was anchored in the harbor, so we had to take the tender to the island. So we had 700 people trying to get off the boat at nearly the same time throuh the same door. It was a madhouse, as usual. It was also HOTin the hallway. Some people looked a little worse for wear, but we soon got the third tender off the ship and we were on our way. Cathy got on the tender before me, so she walked up toward the front of the boat for a seat. For some unknown reason, I chose a spot in the corner to stand rather than sit. The boat left, and within 3 minutes of departure, one of the passanger fainted and fell at my feet! Bad place, bad time. So I treated her for overheating and soon she was up and around. I was getting a reputation on this trip. Santorini is built at the top of volcanic rock. The island was formed by the action of many volcanic eruptions which ultimately destroyed the single large island, forming a series of 5 main islands, of which Santorini is one, and several large rocks and small uninhabited islands in the center of what was once the caldera of the volcano. By the way, the volcano is still active and there are hot springs in the center of the calderia still steaming from the center of the volcanic vents. Santorini is also known for bright white buildings, 325 Greek orthodox churches which dot the island and the famous donkey rides. The donkies take brave riders up or down the steep steps to and from the port. They take a winding road with 11 switchbacks and about 1100 steps from the top to the bottem. Susie and I were going to ride the donkey down the hill but at the very last minute we opted for the cable car to the port. The views from the top are beautiful. Cathy and I stopped at a local cafe, overlooking the bay, and enjoyed a banana smoothie. Relaxing and enjoying the view, and each other, was most memorable. Next we walked and shopped around the island. Soon it was time for lunch and we headed to the recommended restaurant, Ouzerie. Here we dined mezze style, which translates to Tapas Style. We enjoyed meatballs, hummos made from peas, grilled sardines, a Greek salad, spinache pie and fresh bread. Lunch finished Noel joined Cathy and I for more shopping. We soon hooked up with Susie and, a new friend, Rosie. We continued to enjoy the local drinks, I tried the local dessert wine, fantastic. Soon it was time to head back to the boat. Another fantastic dinner, some walking around the deck enjopying the views and off to bed to prepare for our first 6AM wake up call.

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