From the Acropolis

Our day started with a fantastic breakfast buffet which included olives, all kinds of baked goods, meats, egg dishes, yogurts, nuts, fruits, and more topped with strong Greek coffee.  Our lecture was given by, Amy Picus, an American cultural anthropology professor who has lived here for ten years.  She talked about the dramatic changes in the Greek way of life since 1960 --going from agricultural/village life to living in the cities with credit cards, debt, and a country in economic crisis.  Very interesting and helpful. Then we took a short city tour and headed for the Acropolis.  The Acropolis is actually a group of ancient building perched on a high hill overlooking Athens. We walked up many, many marble steps worn smooth by the tread of thousands of people per day for many years.  We were fortunate -- only one cruise ship was in harbor.  Many times 6 to 10 thousand will be up there between 9 and noon---if 6 or more cruise ships are in harbor.  Our guide would stop periodically and share information about the Acropolis (which means a political building on the highest point) --the buildings, the myths, all built by paid laborers and over 2500 years old.  Of course, construction and restoration was going on.  Scaffolding surrounded parts  of  the Parthenon.   The view of Athens was spectacular. The morning was warm, but the breeze on top the hill was great.  (John and Beth:  we think we spotted the restaurant, the church, and the hill, but it looks like we won't have time to try it out.) After looking around, we started to carefully walk down to the bus. Athens traffic today was light.  There was a taxi strike.  Our guide and bus driver kept us out of the strike and commotion, but we could hear it.  Many motorcycles, mopeds, and smart cars are used for transport. After a delicious lunch (Spinach Pie, Greek salad, Moussaka, Baklava, Fruit, and coffee), we went to Athens National Archaeological Museum.  Interesting, but my body was more interested in a nap.  Jet lag rules. Back to the hotel for a nap.  Today we are in an internet cafe enjoying a glass of wine and the internet. Dinner later in the hotel.
Climate is warm --roughly 90 degrees -- much like California.