Athens Tips, Suggestions, Examples to Enjoy!

[TLCOhio]

Below are more visuals in doing this "catch-up" as to what we saw, did and enjoyed from being in Athens in November 2018.  Clearly, Athens and Greece have gone through many economic, governmental and cultural challenges since our first visit in 2006.  Overall, conditions, from what we saw, seemed to be surviving reasonably well under the circumstances.  

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

AFRICA?!!?: Fun, interesting visuals, plus travel details from this early 2016 live/blog. At 44,907 views. Featuring Cape Town, South Africa’s coast, Mozambique, Victoria Falls/Zambia and Botswana's famed Okavango Delta.

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2310337

 

We give super high marks to our hotel, the AVA.  Excellent location handy to the charming and fun Plaka.  Plus, quiet with super excellent staff, etc. Below is the front view of this hotel.  Second is a view from this location to the nearby Arch of Hadrian.  It is also most commonly known in Greek as Hadrian's Gate.  This is a Roman triumphal arch that spanned an ancient road from the center of Athens.  Our hotel location is also near the Temple of Olympian Zeus, etc., etc.:

(Open your screen/viewer wider to see these pictures larger/better!)

 

 

Close to our hotel was this statute in honor of Melina Mercouri (1920-1994).  She was a Greek actress, singer and politician.  The 1960 film “Never on Sunday” was one of her most famous. In 1981, Mercouri became the first female Minister of Culture and Sports for Greece and started the battle seeking to gain the return of many artifacts that were “borrowed” (or stolen??!!) from her country.:

 

Yes, in Athens, there are some areas needing "attention" and cleaning up.  Here is one example in the Plaka area.  It seems that Greece is recovering from its recent economic challenges, but they are not fully "back".  In some areas of Athens and nearby, there is still much work to do.  But, progress has been happening and we enjoyed our time in and around Athens, plus in the two Greek islands that we visited during this trip.:

[TLCOhio]

From our two evenings in Athens, YES, we had very enjoyable dining.  Below is some "proof" and visual documentation from one of those fun evenings in Greece.  In November, it does get a little cooler in the evenings.  Therefore, there was a need to have coats and/or to do some layering. 

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Venice: Loving It & Why??!!  Is one of your future desires or past favorites? See these many visual samples for its great history and architecture.  This posting is now at 81,854 views.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1278226

 

 

First, here is the sign and name for where we dined in the Plaka area.  Second is the great local Greek beer enjoyed.  Third is the staff finalizing my main dining item.  Finally, here is that taste treat that was enjoyed this evening in Athens.  It was a nice lamb dish!:

(Open your screen/viewer wider to see these pictures larger/better!)

 

 

 

 

In the Plaka, here are a few sample visuals.  At this time of the year, things were not too crowded and the weather was a little cooler, requiring jackets.  Lots of to see and soak up in the always-active Plaka!!  Lots of food places here, plus shopping!!:

 

 

 

When we return from our private tour to Delphi with George's Taxi, here is my wife with our excellent driver in front of our AVA Hotel with the famed Roman arch in the background.:

[TLCOhio]

Yes, there is more to share from being in Athens during November, 2018.  Food?  Yes, enjoyed much the dining treats, hospitality, character of the Plaka, etc. 

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Amazon River-Caribbean 2015 adventure live/blog starting in Barbados. Many visuals from this amazing river and Caribbean Islands (Dutch ABC's, St. Barts, Dominica, Grenada, San Juan, etc.).  Now at 63,594 views:

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2157696

 

As we headed to Delphi, here are a couple of sights we experienced in Athens.  First is their Hellenic Parliament.  It is located in the Old Royal Palace, overlooking Syntagma Square in Athens. Second.  This building was completed in 1843. It has housed the Hellenic Parliament since 1934.  Nearby is their local public library done in a classic Greek design/style.:

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From the Acropolis Museum, here is the a view of Mount Lycabettus.  This limestone hill in Athens is 908 feet above sea level. At one of its peaks is the 19th century Chapel of St. George.  This hill can be ascended by the Lycabettus Funicular.:

 

In doing our first dinner in Athens during this trip, here are visuals for good Greek beer and a nice seafood dish in the Plaka area of historic Athens.:

 

 

Plus, a small sampling of historic sights and sites during our first night in Athens near our hotel in the charming and historic Plaka area.:

 

[TLCOhio]

For right now, here is a wrap-up from the key visuals from visiting Athens in November, 2018.  Please share any reactions, comments, questions, etc.  Don't be shy!!  Sharing is great and helpful for others in planning their travel to Greece.  Or, to bring back memories from being in Athens. 

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Barcelona/Med: June 2011, with stops in Villefranche, ports near Pisa and Rome, Naples, Kotor, Venice and Dubrovnik. Great visuals with key highlights, tips, etc. Live/blog now at 245,398 views.

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1426474

 

Here is where we dined during our first night in the Greek capital. Athens or Athina Bistrot!!  Great food and hospitality.  Below are two of the super nice and friendly staff there.:

(Open your screen/viewer wider to see these pictures larger/better!)

 

Here is a night view for our AVA Hotel where we are returning to as our "home" while in Athens.   Second is a picture of the Acropolis lighted at night as seen from the roof of our hotel.:

 

 

Here are a couple of typical views from other dining and shopping options in and around the Plaka.  Lots of charm and character in the Plaka!!  But, cool this night as things were not that busy or crowded.:

 

[TLCOhio]

Below are some more visuals not previously posted from our November 2018 visit to Athens, Greece, the Greek Isles, etc.  Great fun, history and wonderful dining/drinks.  

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Norway Coast/Fjords/Arctic Circle cruise from Copenhagen, July 2010, to the top of Europe. Wonderful scenic visuals with key tips. Live/blog at 234,750 views.

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1227923

 

When driving with our private guide on the way to Delphi, here was an interesting view from urban Athens with the birds, wires and an apartment building in the background.:

(Open your screen/viewer wider to see these pictures larger/better!)

 

Near our AVA hotel in the Plaka area, here is how close can be the old Roman ruins immediately next to the urban highways.:

 

From the Acropolis Museum cafe/dining area, this picture of my wife at our table gives an example for how you have a great view of these famed Athens historic structures. There is also, as shown, a large outdoor area with table.  But on this day, the winds and colder weather was not ideal for being outside.:

 

Also from the Acropolis Museum, here are some added views, angles and visual samples of its architecture, design, etc.  First shows how the entrance area is built over ruins found when digging to build this museum.  Second shows the view from inside the museum out towards the nearby residential buildings in this part of Athens.  Finally are two more different, interior samplings.:

 

 

 

[Ngraham54]

Terry,

I have enjoyed reading your posts on Athens. I have been researching Mediterranean cruises with Athens as a port of call but was undecided. Yesterday a high school classmate ('72) invited me to a classmates Greek Isle cruise she is organizing for September 2020.  Ironically, that is when I wanted to do the Med cruise and now I have to decide if I will join them on a Royal Caribbean cruise or continue my loyalty with Princess.  (Not sure I will ever get to experience cruising the famed Oceania ships!)  Your pictures of Athens with food and buildings has been so helpful.  I wasn't sure if I wanted to go to Athens but you have changed my mind.  It was very interesting to read about the fires last year. Comments about safety were somewhat concerning and I was anxious to read about your second trip.  It sounds like things have calmed down!  

 

Also, I loved the pictures from your 20 day voyage.  So much history in this world and not enough time to see it all!  Thank you and I will continue to watch for your posts!

 

Nancy in PA

[TLCOhio]

9 hours ago, Ngraham54 said:

Terry,  I have enjoyed reading your posts on Athens. I have been researching Mediterranean cruises with Athens as a port of call but was undecided. Yesterday a high school classmate ('72) invited me to a classmates Greek Isle cruise she is organizing for September 2020.  Ironically, that is when I wanted to do the Med cruise and now I have to decide if I will join them on a Royal Caribbean cruise or continue my loyalty with Princess.  (Not sure I will ever get to experience cruising the famed Oceania ships!)  Your pictures of Athens with food and buildings has been so helpful.  I wasn't sure if I wanted to go to Athens but you have changed my mind.  It was very interesting to read about the fires last year. Comments about safety were somewhat concerning and I was anxious to read about your second trip.  It sounds like things have calmed down!    Also, I loved the pictures from your 20 day voyage.  So much history in this world and not enough time to see it all!  Thank you and I will continue to watch for your posts!   Nancy in PA

 

Super appreciate from Nancy in neighboring Pennsylvania your very nice comments and this kind follow-up.  A "classmates Greek Isle cruises" sounds like fun and would be interesting!!  Lots of options to consider!!  Loyalty to one cruise line is nice, but we are flexible in seeking BOTH the best itinerary AND cruise line "value"/quality.  We have sailed with seven different cruise lines.  Each cruise company has their own pro/con factors to consider. Keep research and planning.  Let me know any questions or way I can be of help.  

 

Do not know if I had mentioned on this thread, but in July, for our first time, we will be seeing Jasper/Banff, doing the Western Canada Rocky Mountaineer rail adventure, having three days in Vancouver, then sailing up, UP to Alaska, doing a post-cruise excursion to Denali, etc. After that on our priority list is a first-time trip for visiting Galápagos, etc. Just need people to send money and/or arrange for me to get commissions as my posts inspire your future travel plans. Or, need to win a big Lottery for more money to explore the world. 

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Venice: Loving It & Why??!!  Is one of your future desires or past favorites? See these many visual samples for its great history and architecture.  This posting is now at 81,875 views.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1278226

[krb1000]

Hello Terry,

I have enjoyed reading your posts about Athens! I came to this board as we are sailing from Athens in October and we are in need of a pre-cruise hotel for two nights. Your photos are amazing and have increased my anticipation. Thank you so much for taking the time to share your adventures in Greece.

 

[TLCOhio]

On 4/27/2019 at 3:00 PM, krb1000 said:

Hello Terry,  I have enjoyed reading your posts about Athens! I came to this board as we are sailing from Athens in October and we are in need of a pre-cruise hotel for two nights. Your photos are amazing and have increased my anticipation. Thank you so much for taking the time to share your adventures in Greece.

 

Appreciate Kathie's kind comments and follow-up.  Keep researching and planning!!  That really helps to add to the enjoyment with your upcoming 

 

From this news source in Greece today, they had this headline: “You’d Better Believe it: Fascinating Facts about Greece”  with this opening statement: "Everyone knows that Greece is the cradle of Western Civilization, the birthplace of democracy, and that it has a stunningly beautiful coastline. However, there are some facts that very few people are aware of."

 

Here are some of these highlights/facts: “There are about 2,000 islands and islets in Greece, but only 170 of them are inhabited. The largest, Crete, has an area of 8,260 square kilometers.  Greece is the number one country in the world in the natural sponge trade.  Athens had a population of about 7,000 only two centuries ago. Today the capital’s residents exceed five million, almost half of the country’s population.  Approximately 7 percent of all the marble quarried on the planet comes from Greece.  In the 1950s, only 30 percent of Greeks knew how to read and write. Today, the illiteracy rate is just 5 percent.”

 

Full story and more fact items for Greece at:

https://greece.greekreporter.com/2019/04/28/youd-better-believe-it-fascinating-facts-about-greece/

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Sydney to NZ/Auckland Adventure, live/blog 2014 sampling/details with many exciting visuals and key highlights.  On page 23, post #571, see a complete index for all of the pictures, postings.  Now at 220,020 views.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1974139

[TLCOhio]

The Acropolis Museum is trully amazing, both the building and its artifacts. Just a week ago, they opened the new area, which is the actual, ancient city district below the modern museum. You can literally walk below the museum and through the small streets and buildings of ancient Athens!

 

Appreciate this great update, details and follow-up about this new option at the Acropolis Museum.  Very interesting!!  It's a good reason to go back to Athens, see and do more there, etc.  Will share your suggestion on my Athens series of details.  

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Dubrovnik!  Nice visual samples, tips, details, etc., for this super scenic location. Over 45,980 views.    

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1439227

[TLCOhio]

As a follow-up to the above posting, here is more.  From the London/UK Guardian newspaper early last month, they had this headline: “Daily lives of ancient Greeks revealed in Acropolis museum’s huge archaeological dig” with this sub headline: "Museum’s new exhibition space is an excavation site with villas, workshops and bathhouses."

 

Here are more of their story highlights: “The pride – and purpose – of the Acropolis Museum has always been the Parthenon gallery. With its 360-degree panoramic view from the top floor, the museum has always been on a mission: to let the world know that this is the most appropriate place to exhibit the marbles that once adorned the Periclean masterpiece. But a decade after it opened, the four-storey edifice at the foot of the Acropolis is now focusing on the lives of ancient Greeks. As the museum prepares to celebrate its 10th birthday on 20 June, it has announced the opening of a new exhibition space: an entire excavated neighbourhood of ancient villas, streets, workshops and bathhouses that lies below the museum building.”

 

Happy 10th anniversary to this wonderful museum.  Yes, we enjoyed our visit there.

 

Full story at:

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2019/jun/08/acropolis-museum-archaeology-daily-lives-ancient-greeks

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Kotor/Montenegro:  Exciting visual samples, tips, details, etc., for this scenic, historic location. Over 45,958 views.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1439193

[TLCOhio]

Based on report from the New York Times and other news sources within the past hour, the Times had this headline: “Greek Elections: Prime Minister Loses Re-Election to Center Right” with these highlights: “Greek voters turned out their leftist prime minister in elections that came after a decade of grueling economic austerity, casting their lot with a resurgent center-right New Democracy party.  Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras called his opponent, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, a Harvard-educated former banker and son of a former prime minister, to concede defeat.  Initial results showed that Mr. Tsipras’s Syriza party, which has ruled Greece for the past four years, had suffered a major defeat at the hands of New Democracy.”

 

It will be interesting to follow how this change in Greek leadership will impact, positive or negative, their economic recovery and future.  Also in this article, they detailed: "Mr. Tsipras once walked Greece to the brink by calling an effective referendum on its euro membership, and then walked it back when he refused to heed its outcome. In July 2015, he convinced Greeks to reject another international bailout and the onerous austerity that came with it — then acquiesced and fell into line."

 

Full story at:

https://www.nytimes.com/2019/07/07/world/europe/greek-elections-results.html

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

SE Asia/Mekong River, Etc.!  Live/blog from early 2018, first adventure through SE Asia, stops in Hong Kong and Bangkok, before exploring all over Vietnam and Cambodia, seven days sailing on the Mekong River. Now at 47,925 views.

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2591474

[TLCOhio]

From the Travel Section of the London/UK Independent two days ago, they had this headline: “The Best Food Destinations to Visit” with these highlights about Athens, Greece: “The Greek capital is one of those cities where almost everything tastes good. There are grill joints on every corner flogging souvlaki: hot sticks of kebab meat then wrapped in pitta and slathered in thick yoghurt and spices, usually washed down with a frothy freddo cappuccino. For souvlaki with change from a fiver, try casual Hoocut or O Thanasis on so-called Souvlaki Row in central neighbourhood Monasteraki. Finish with Greek yoghurt drizzled in local honey, available from many yoghurt shops (in Greece, it’s a thing).”

 

YES!!  Lots of excellent food options and treats in Athens and Greece as we enjoyed late last year.  

 

Full story at:

https://www.independent.co.uk/travel/europe/europe-best-foodie-destinations-brexit-restaurants-gastronomy-cuisine-a9133296.html

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Just completed Calgary, Jasper/Banff National Parks, Western Canada Rocky Mountaineer rail adventure, Vancouver, sailing up to Alaska, post-cruise excursion to Denali, etc.  Lots of visuals and details from our first visits to these scenic areas!!  That live/blog is at: 

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2682584-live-terryohio-silver-muse-alaska-canadarockies-pix’s/

 

Or, you could simply do a quick Google search with these terms: 

Live Terry/Ohio Muse Alaska

[iancal]

We have been to Athens several times.  This trip we opted for a change and are staying in Glyfada on the Athens Riviera.   Good transport to/from the airport, port, and Athens.   

 

Very different from spending all of all of our time in Athens and very enjoyable.

[krb1000]

Hey Terry! Thanks so much for all your recommendations, especially the Ava Hotel... we are sitting here enjoying our last breakfast before embarking on the Crystal Serenity.
 

 

 

 

 

I really  appreciate you taking the time to post these wonderful suggestions 

I will be sure to give you a shout out on our blog

http://www.travelingwithtimmy.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

[shopping is fun]

HI, we are hoping to do some exploring on our own in Athens early in June 2020 with our 20-ish y/o daughters--one loves history and the other not so much!  We were in Athens a couple of years ago and had a wonderful tour of all the usual sights through PK Tours, so we don't really need to repeat those venues. Instead, we prefer  wandering, exploring neighborhoods, soaking up the culture, shopping a bit, eating, etc. Which areas of the city do you recommend for  truly experiencing Athens life? Or are there other "unexpected", off-the-beaten-path type activities which might be intriguing? (I even did some reading about the Athens zoo, as something out of the ordinary for a cruise stop)!  Thanks!

[TLCOhio]

On 10/23/2019 at 3:04 AM, krb1000 said:

Hey Terry! Thanks so much for all your recommendations, especially the Ava Hotel... we are sitting here enjoying our last breakfast before embarking on the Crystal Serenity.

 

Appreciate these great comments, follow-ups and the nice picture from Athens by Kathie.  Glad that things worked out well at the AVA Hotel.  Keep up the excellent sharing.  Don't be shy with any and all questions.  Plus, any tips to be offered for CC Board readers.  

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Barcelona/Med: June 2011, with stops in Villefranche, ports near Pisa and Rome, Naples, Kotor, Venice and Dubrovnik. Great visuals with key highlights, tips, etc. Live/blog now at 249,597 views.

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1426474

[TLCOhio]

From the Travel Section of the Sydney Morning Herald and other Fairfax newspapers in Australia four days ago, they had this headline: “27 most underrated places of 2019” with these highlights about Athens: “Despite having some of the planet's best-preserved archaeological treasures, Athens is often seen as just a stepping stone to the Greek Islands. Spend some time in the city and you'll soon realise it has much more to offer, including a sophisticated culinary scene honed from 2500 years of practice, a stamina-testing nightlife that will have you dancing till dawn and a population of friendly, feisty, fun-loving locals. More than anything else, it's a city where you'll be constantly surprised by the juxtaposition of the ancient and the modern.”

 

Full story at:

https://www.traveller.com.au/the-most-underrated-overrated-cities-and-countries-of-2019-h1k4se

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Lisbon, NWSpain, Bordeaux/Brittany: Live/blog, June 2017 from Portugal to France along scenic Atlantic Coast.  Now at 30,001 views.  Many interesting pictures, details for history, food, culture, etc.:

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2511358

[iancal]

Greece and Turkey are among our favourites. We keep going back. We have also done several Eastern Med cruises.

 

Our advice to cruisers....if you possibly can spend a week or more precruise in either of these countries.  Rent a car or take a tour and see some other parts of either country that is ofen missed on a cruise.  You will see a different side of the country and the culture than you do in some of the tourist centric stops.

[TLCOhio]

On 12/18/2019 at 11:20 AM, iancal said:

Greece and Turkey are among our favourites. We keep going back. We have also done several Eastern Med cruises.   Our advice to cruisers....if you possibly can spend a week or more precruise in either of these countries.  Rent a car or take a tour and see some other parts of either country that is ofen missed on a cruise.  You will see a different side of the country and the culture than you do in some of the tourist centric stops.

 

Appreciate these above great summary points and the follow-up from iancal.  YES, agree on the smart wisdom of arriving early and spending added time prior to a cruise.  During both our 2006 and 2018 visits to Athens, prior to starting our sailing, we had (and super enjoyed) our time in Athens, plus circling the Peloponnesian Peninsula and visiting up to Delphi historic Gods site.  Getting outside of the port city is important to see and learn more about their history, culture, etc. 

 

From the Greek City Times website, they had this headline: “Why you must visit the Acropolis Museum when visiting Athens” with these highlights: “When there is a wish to find out as much as possible about Ancient Greece, then a visit to the Acropolis Museum in Athens is a must. Along with the Acropolis, it is one of the most popular attractions for the whole of Greece.  All the archaeological finds associated with this monument are on display at the Acropolis Museum.  The Museum was built on an important archaeological site of the city, called Makrigianni Hill.”

 

Many nice visuals are included in this profile.  Brings back wonderful memories from a little over a year ago when we visited this relatively new museum attraction. 

 

Full story at:

https://greekcitytimes.com/2019/12/17/acropolis-museum-visiting-athens/

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

 

From late 2018, see “Holy Lands, Egypt, Jordan, Oman, Dubai, Greece, etc.”, with many visuals, details and ideas for the historic and scenic Middle East. Now at 17,033 views.  Connect at:

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2607054-livenautica-greece-holy-lands-egypt-dubai-terrypix’s/

[TLCOhio]

From the Travel Section of the London/UK Independent three days ago, they had this headline: “ATHENS CITY GUIDE” with these profile highlights: “One of the world’s oldest cities, with a recorded lifespan of nearly 3,500 years, Athens is as historically and culturally significant as they come. The home of Plato and Aristotle, it’s not only hailed as the birthplace of democracy but as the cradle of western civilisation and philosophy. But much like its former guardian – Athena, the Greek goddess of war and wisdom – whose name it still bears, this city is, in many ways, the embodiment of heroic endeavour. Its oft-mentioned grittiness is a mark of the turbulence that it’s endured over the years and, rather than admitting defeat, modern-day Athens has recalibrated and reinvented itself as a source of inspiration for its next generation of innovators.”

 

Many options and potentials are outlined in this newspaper story.  Brings back great memories!!  Here are a couple more highlights shared by their writer about Athens: "Tick off the ancient wonders on your bucket list by all means, but you’ll find the real rewards of this city lie in its greatest passions: its people, food and art.  The glorious Acropolis, built in the 5th century BC, is woven into the fabric of Athens; it’s visible on its rocky perch from almost every part of the city. Hit the Parthenon either first thing (8am) or at sunset: you’ll beat the crowds and escape the high heat. Do yourself another huge favour and wear comfortable, grippy shoes for the climb – the last thing you need is to be preoccupied by blisters or to be slipping and sliding on the stones around the temples. "

 

Full story at:

https://www.independent.co.uk/travel/48-hours-in/athens-things-to-do-city-guide-greece-acropolis-beach-best-hotels-restaurants-a9295386.html

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

 

Recently completed Calgary, Jasper/Banff National Parks, Western Canada Rocky Mountaineer rail adventure, Vancouver, sailing up to Alaska, post-cruise excursion to Denali, etc.  Lots of visuals and details from our first visits to these scenic areas!!  That live/blog is at: 

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2682584-live-terryohio-silver-muse-alaska-canadarockies-pix’s/

 

Here is the visual used to illustrated this UK newspaper profile/guide for Athens.:

(Open your screen/viewer wider to see these pictures larger/better!)

[TLCOhio]

Having returned from four weeks in New Zealand and the South Pacific on March 7, we feel lucky to have escaped the shut-down and trauma affecting many during the past two months.  Not sure when things will return to some form of "normal" for air flights, cruise ships, etc.    

 

From the Travel Section of the London/UK Guardian, they had this headline earlier this past week: “Which European countries are easing travel restrictions?” with these details and highlights for Greece: “Prime minister Mitsotakis declared June 15 the official start of the tourist season in Greece, but direct international flights will not start resuming until 1 July.. The first foreign tourists are expected to arrive from neighbouring countries by car. Some domestic flights and ferries operating, and travel to Evia and Crete from the mainland is permitted (all other islands still restricted). Holidaymakers will be required to have a test for coronavirus on arrival. Masks are mandatory in shops and on public transport. Throughout June, malls, restaurants, cafes, cinemas, hotels, amusement parks, playgrounds and other sports facilities will open gradually. Public transport and taxis operating (up to two passengers per taxi). Large gatherings, including festivals and sporting events, are unlikely to return this summer.”

 

Full story at:

https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2020/may/18/europe-holidays-which-european-countries-are-easing-coronavirus-travel-restrictions-lockdown-measures

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

 

Barcelona/Med: June 2011, with stops in Villefranche, ports near Pisa and Rome, Naples, Kotor, Venice and Dubrovnik. Great visuals with key highlights, tips, etc. Live/blog now at 251,364 views.

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1426474

[TLCOhio]

Not sure when and how tourism returns to normal in Athens and Greece.  Plus, as I understand now, U.S. tourists are not currently allowed to visit this part of Europe.  Right?

 

From the Travel Section of the London/UK Mirror three days ago, they had this headline: “Greece on verge of lockdown after surge in coronavirus cases as Brits set to arrive” with these highlights: “Greece on verge of lockdown after surge in coronavirus cases as Brits set to arrive.  The spike in infections comes after the country reopened its borders to tourists on July 1. There have been just 3,672 active cases of coronavirus in the country but since borders were reopened more than 100 tourists have tested positive.  Greece is set to welcome Brits from next week with UK flights arriving from July 15.”

 

Full story at:

https://www.mirror.co.uk/travel/news/greece-verge-lockdown-after-surge-22336432

 

THANKS!  Enjoy!  Terry in Ohio

 

Norway Coast/Fjords/Arctic Circle cruise from Copenhagen, July 2010, to the top of Europe. Wonderful scenic visuals with key tips. Live/blog at 239,885

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1227923

[iancal]

There is so very much more to see in Greece besides the usual stops in Athens, Mykonos, Santorin, Crete, Rhodes, etc.

 

Pre and post cruise tours are easy to do. Rent a car in Athens, tour the Peloponnese for a week or so, then return it to the airport.  Fly, train or drive to Northern Greece  (Meteora, Ioannina etc)  from Athens and tour by car.  Then island hop over to, and  through the Ionian Islands.    We have enjoyed touring these areas as much or more than the more common cruise tourist areas.

Edited August 4, 2020 by iancal

[TLCOhio]

On 8/4/2020 at 2:45 PM, iancal said:

There is so very much more to see in Greece besides the usual stops in Athens, Mykonos, Santorin, Crete, Rhodes, etc. . Rent a car in Athens, tour the Peloponnese for a week or so, then return it to the airport.  We have enjoyed touring these areas as much or more than the more common cruise tourist areas.

 

Excellent above suggestion and wise tip from the very experienced iancal.  Great follow-up!!

 

From the Chicago Tribune this weekend, they had this headline: “Rick Steves’ Europe: Greece’s underrated Peloponnese Peninsula” with these highlights: “I think that the Peloponnese is rough, but with a complex history. I’m pondering where to go next. Hordes of tourists flock to the Greek islands, unaware of the salty pleasures awaiting right here, on this peninsula — without requiring a ferry ride or flight. Stretching southwest from Athens and studded with antiquities, this ancient land offers plenty of fun in the eternal Greek sun, with pleasant fishing villages, sandy beaches, bathtub warm water, and none of the tourist crowds.   I could go to the charming port town of Nafplio. It’s small, cozy, and strollable, with great pensions, appealing restaurants, a thriving evening scene, and inviting beaches nearby. As the first capital of an independent Greece, it’s historically important, and it’s a handy base for touring the ancient sites at Mycenae and Epidavros.   East of Nafplio, Epidavros has the most magnificent theater from the ancient world. It was built nearly 2,500 years ago to seat 15,000. Today, it’s kept busy with tourists by day and reviving the greatest plays of antiquity at night.”

 

YES!!!  Agree much to love, experience and see when touring the Peloponnese Peninsula!!

 

Full story at:

https://www.chicagotribune.com/travel/sns-rick-steves-peloponnese-peninsula-20200827-cxwtg72jhrewpem2to2iwmgqja-story.html

 

Sydney to NZ/Auckland Adventure, live/blog 2014 sampling/details with many exciting visuals and key highlights.  On page 23, post #571, see a complete index for all of the pictures, postings.  Now at 230,883 views.

www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1974139