AthensUpon leaving England, I arrived in Athens on May 7, 1999. This was the fourth time I had been to Athens since 1996. Something about Greece has always fascinated me and I know that I will go back again. While in England, I had arranged a job at the Student and Travelers Inn, a youth hostel in the Plaka. The Plaka is one of Athen's oldest parts, the ancient center of the city. Just down the street was the Acropolis, where you'll find the Parthenon. I thought that everyone knew where the Parthenon was but was shocked to have met several people who actually said "We went to the Acropolis today, you know it's just a bunch of ruins. We still haven't seen the Parthenon." Most of my summer entertainment came from stupid travelers. I worked in the computer lab and loved every minute of it. I worked nine hours a day, seven days a week for only about $12 a day. But it was more than enough to live on since my room and breakfast was provided and things there are generally inexpensive. Plus my only daily needs were a Greek salad, a lemon Fanta and some oj. My mom came to visit me for two weeks in September and we toured the north and hit the islands (see that page), a must if you're in Greece. The day that she arrived was the day of the big earthquake. It was a first for both of us and made for an exciting story! After a full six months of living and working in Athens, it was time to head home. I didn't want to leave but it was time for the holidays.
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My Room
This is what my itsy bitsy room looked like. I cried when I first saw it because the thought of spending any amount of time in it was like imagining life in a jail cell. I really had to squeeze to take this because when you opened the door, it hit the other bed. The longer I was there, the bigger it seemed! The window looked over the courtyard and the bathroom next door was often quiet so I guess I had it good. Looking back, I miss my little room! |
My Street
This is Kidathineon, the cobblestone street that I lived on. The Inn is on the right (above the stores), stretching down to the hanging flowers. My favorite cafe in just down the street and the restaurant where I was a frequent customer is just across from the green trees in the center. I miss this place more than I ever thought I could. |
My Street
This is me on Adrianou Street in Athens. It's a popular street at the end of Kidathineon where there are lots of shops selling the ususal tourist knockoffs. Of course, that's what in the bag in my hand! As long as mom was with me, I loaded up and sent things home with her. c |
