By Rosie Eden
During my time in Athens and beyond, I’ve learned that there really is no place like Greece. People travel for all kinds of reasons: some hope to experience a new culture, others want to expand their cuisine, and others seek out vibrant nightlife scenes. Whether you’re looking for a jam-packed day of sightseeing or a relaxed afternoon on the beach, Greece offers unparalleled travel experiences. Over time, when discussing my travels with friends and family back home, they are often surprised to hear stories that encompass such a wide range of positive experiences. Can one place really provide such a variety of happy memories? I have found myself adopting the motto: “Greece Does It Best.” To honor this sentiment, I have composed a list of all the things that Greece truly does best.
1) Food
An uncontroversial first choice, the food in Greece is simply unbeatable. Even the staunchest food critic could not resist the delicious allure of a juicy gyro, fresh souvlaki, or sweet baklava. I have never once been disappointed by a bite of Greek food. From Greek salads to tzatziki, the unique tastes of Athens will always keep you wanting more. The wonderful flavors of the Greek diet can be attributed to Greece’s proximity to fresh fish and vegetables. More surprisingly, it is very convenient and easy to get a delicious meal for an astonishingly low price. I know that I will long miss my usual chicken souvlaki order from my local shop once I am no longer in Athens.
2) Views
I remember stepping into the Plaka neighborhood for the first time, almost two years ago. To set the scene, I was an exhausted college sophomore who had just finished the last of my midterm examinations before boarding a sleepless ten-hour flight to Athens. It was nighttime when we landed in Athens, and our instructors had insisted on walking us through the city before we retired to the hotel for sleep. Begrudgingly, I sluggishly willed my body off of the bus, following the line of classmates in front of me. My tired feet made contact with the ground, I lifted my head, and that’s when I saw it: The Parthenon, sitting atop the Acropolis, beaming in its luminescent glory. There’s only one word I can use to describe the feeling that overtook me, magical.
The Parthenon’s lofty appearance makes it easy to spot all across the city. I’ve admired it from rooftop bars, while sipping on refreshing cocktails. I’ve used it as a navigating point as I explored the beautiful neighborhoods beneath. Athens promises stunning views of so many monuments and ruins across the city. The view of Athens from the Acropolis is similarly, breathtaking. I could spend hours watching the people, shops, and homes below the Acropolis, moving my eyes from the mountains to the Aegean Sea in the distance. It is not possible to see these things without succumbing to a sense of awe.
3) Transportation
The transportation in Athens truly surprised me. In school we have a saying about public transportation: “You can get there quickly, comfortably, or affordably.” On the Athenian metro lines, all three are possible. When I first entered my local metro system with friends, we cheerfully noted that we could see our reflections in the floor tiles. The metro is clean, safe, and very efficient. It has served as a reliable form of transportation both to and from the airport. My very generously discounted student monthly metro pass has been my lifeline in traveling around Athens quickly and safely.
4) Relaxation
Athens is a great place to experience a bustling crowd scene, but it also offers opportunities for personal relaxation. Beautiful beaches are a quick train and bus ride away. I personally recommend lounging on one of the shaded sunbeds at Vouliagmeni Beach. If the heat proves to be too oppressive, it’s relatively easy to organize a weekend getaway to one of the many nearby islands. I have found many secret swimming spots on the shores of Sifnos, Naxos, Paros, and Hydra. The refreshing water of the characteristically blue Aegean Sea is the most effective cure for all stresses, worries, and anxiety. It is hard to feel anything but bliss when you’re floating against a backdrop of gorgeous sands, greenery, and architecture.
5) Hospitality
During my time in Greece, I have felt welcomed and cared for. The spirit of Greece is one that embraces new friends. Most memorably, when visiting Sifnos with my boyfriend, I was hosted by a kind man, who offered to transfer us from the port to our accommodation, pointing out local areas of interest and telling us about his childhood on the island during the entire drive. He provided us with water and local pastries for our island stay. At restaurants, I have engaged in good-natured conversations with managers and owners, listening to their stories and accepting their complementary dishes and drinks. I’ve enjoyed dinners with live music, breaking plates, and community dancing. These impressions have brightened my time in Athens, cultivating a sense of community and belonging.
