Ancient City of Thira

I took the steep hike up to the ancient city of Thira. I like a challenging hike and I was hiking up the shaded west side so, the rough terrain was manageable. Once I arrived at the site, I was able to walk around the ancient city and image what it must have been like when it was inhabited. 

The original city was destroyed by a volcanic eruption in the 17th century B.C.  Archaeologists say it was eventually resettled near the end of the prehistoric era.  Dorian colonist from Sparta settled there and established it’s name from their leader, Theras.  Perched high on the peak on the southeastern coast, it was naturally fortified and provided good harbors for their ships. 

As I walked through the streets I could see where they had open-air sanctuaries, temples, heroa, a theater, and an agora. 

Watch this video and join me as I hike up and explore these ancient streets.

For house points, tell me what are heroa? 

Check out my hike:

https://strava.app.link/a0eSEeSAmib

Those Sublime Moments

After hiking the Samaria Gorge, I spent the rest of the evening on the small rocky beach; cooling off in the water.  I later returned to my hotel to upload the video and photos I had taken. It was dusk when I finally had my dinner, over looking the sea. The hazy horizon presented a soft transition of hues from the sea to the sky. It was the perfect backdrop to reflect on my travels.  It’s those sublime moments that can open your eyes and reveal a deeper appreciation of life. 

I love traveling to all parts of the world but, I’ve said many times that you don’t need to travel to be a global citizen. Just as so many things that happen around the world can affect our lives in Dallas, what we do in our daily lives in Dallas can also empact people all around the world. I’ve been reminded of that each time I’ve had to show my Covid-19 vaccine card and wear my mask. 

Nor do you need to travel around the world to experience those sublime moments. The sun rises in the east and sets in the west no matter where you are.  You can find those moments when you take time to pause and step outside yourself.  It might be seen in the setting sun or heard in a distant conversation between a mother and child.  Whether it’s revealed though a glimpse of our humanity or Mother Nature, it allows us to find a deeper meaning to the numbered days of our lives. It makes me a better person when I pause to reflect, no matter where in the world I might be; even Dallas. 

Boarding Ferry to Samaria Gorge

I’m hoping on my way to the Samaria Gorge where I will hike as much as I can. I’ll post some pics will more information about the gorge. 

Here’s some video of the gorge:

Epidavros and Mycenae

Dating back to the 6th century B.C., people would visit Epidavros seeking healing for their ailments. The complex included a hotel with 160 rooms for visitors to stay as they hoped to be cured. Archeologists have found lots of medical tools used during their treatments. The complex also has a large theatre that is so well preserved it is still used today. 

Mycenae was one of the major Greek civilizations. Strategically placed, Mycenae was a defensive stronghold but also had good farmland and an ample supply of water.  The site also includes many graves where people were placed alongside some of their prized possessions that are now on display in the museum. The Tomb of Clytemnestra is also nearby. 

The Palamidi Fortress

1000 steps to get a selfie. 

The Ancient City of Delphi

I spent the afternoon and evening exploring the Delphi museum and archeological site.  I walked around the Temple of Apollo and several other structures. The Temple of Apollo dates back the the 4th century BC.

Managing Your Money Abroad

I’ve now been in Kalambaka for two days. Much of my time has been spent trekking Meteora but the small town of Kalambaka has some nice restaurants as well as scenic views. I took this picture while walking to the ATM for more cash. So. to get more house points, look closely at this picture an then tell me how the price of gas in Kalambaka compares to the price in Dallas?  How much would it cost to fill a 15 gallon tank at the current price of gas here in here in Kalambaka?