About Athens
We visited in Athens in November of 2015. We were a bit apprehensive about our visit because Greece was amid an economic meltdown. Upon arrival, we weresuprised to find a country that showed no signs of economic distress. We were greeted with open arms by a people eager to share their culture with visitors.
Our hotel, A for Athens, was in a prime location on Monastiraki Square with views of the Acropolis and Parthenon. The hotel staff was amazing. Professional, courteous and most of all helpful.
One thing that we should caution visitors about is that the Greek people stay out late...really late. But, being out among the people among the streets and squares gives you the sense that this is a culture that truly understands the work/life balance concept.
The sights of Athens are conveniently close together in the immediate vicinity of the Acropolis. We were able to walk to most sights from our hotel. Walking among the massive columns of the Parthenon will leave you in awe of how these great temples of our history were created. One sight that is outside of the city os the Temple of Poseidon on Cape Sounion, the southernmost point on mainland Greece. Located on a high bluff and overlooking the Mediterranean, the temple is remarkably intact and well worth the journey outside of the city. Another must see attraction is the changing of the guard at the Greek Parliament. Watching this carefully executed process is mind boggling. Also, make sure you check out the Olympic venues of old Greece and the new facilities of the more recent Summer Games of 2004.
Athens is a city of ancient history that is in the process of reinventing itself as it adjusts to its nearly 6 million residents. With out for people riding on scooters! They are everywhere and consider traffic lights as mere suggestions to be ignored. You definitely want to look before you step out into the street. But don't et that deter you from visiting Athens. It really is an amazing city.
