We’ve had quite a time in just 24 hours in Greece… All good. No… All great. Today had been set aside to explore Athens. Pat had never been here and it’s been nearly 40 years for me, so we’re going to see what’s new and I’m going to show her what I remember about this wonderful city. Our driver and new best friend, Loukas Bikas, showed up right on time at 10 am to pick us up at the hotel.

First stop, Syntagma Square and the Greek Parliament. The Evzones, the guards at the tomb of the Greek Unknown Soldier, were just changing the guard when we arrived. Very impressive sight and equivalent to the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington.

Next the Temple of Zeus and the Olympic Stadium where the first modern Olympics were held. The history on this country, both ancient and modern, is mind boggling!

We couldn’t help but notice that Athens now has many homeless people, most of whom are refugees from other nations. Plus, the graffiti is abundant around the city.

Next stop was the Athens Flea Market, known as Monestraki. Since it was Easter Monday, many of the stores were still closed.

Finally, Loukas insisted that we go up the other hill located across from the Acropolis, Lycabettus, so Pat could take some beautiful pictures of Athens.

We ended the day on a positive note when an old friend in Athens, Mary Moraites, came to our hotel and we shared dinner and conversation with her.

Our dear friend, Mary Moraites from Athens.

A real Greek Salad, horiatiki..

What a wonderful day in Greece. Lots of new memories were made, and old memories recalled.