Rode out the rocky night in relative peace it seems and woke to find ourselves docked in the busy Piraeus Harbour, Athens! Cruise over sad to say – would have been nice to have a few more days but all good things come to an end and wait there is more!
Onwards to the Acropolis – a religious centre dating back to 5th century with many old monuments/temples etc built to worship greek gods – the remaining structures are as impressive as they say and huge when you are up next to them, especially the most well known – the Parthenon (Google The Acropolis FYI). The guide had an amazing story about how little ruins moved in the last recent earthquake here – not enough to put a needle in he said! They knew this as extensive renovations underway and measuring equipment etc in place.
Again a strong wind blowing but welcomed as it mitigated some heat – hard to keep your sunhat on though! Pretty amazing views out over Athens and of other monuments. We stopped at Panathinaikon Stadium where first modern day Olympics took place – not used much now for sport as the bends are too sharp! LOL- they only have the last lap of the marathon here now and otherwise used for special concerts – the largest marble stadium in the world – seems such a shame! But imagine hearing Bortechelli there!
Beautiful night views of floodlit Acropolis from the hotel rooftop – very pleasant temperature in evening and picturesque surroundings. Have noticed Athens has lots of trees & rooftop gardens – Seville orange trees along many streets, also stands of olive, carob and many oleander! Enjoyed dinner with a former work colleague of Gill’s who is currently working in the Emirates and travelling over summer. The world really is a small place!
Venice – Croatia – Athens Photos
Comments
Comment by Jon on 2011-08-21 16:26:08 -0700
All sounds wonderful. Chris has also forwarded your email to us – so we are well up with what you two are up to. The cruise, its food and lifestyle sound superb – I am sure I could manage all of that. Weather here at last is getting better with frosty mornings and sunny days. We are all looking after your work very carefully. The RFP documents have been sent!!.
Comment by Yvonne on 2011-08-21 16:38:30 -0700
Hey Gill
Oh my gosh, this is the first time I have had a chance to have a look at your over seas adventure. This blog in fantastic!!! Thanks for sharing. Looks like you are having a totally amazing time, you will be coming back to work for a rest. Baby Micah is just adorable, we love the photos of you and him. What awesome memories you will have. Enjoy the rest of your time away. Looking forward to hearing more on your return.
love Yvonne and the Napier team
