Like poor weather conditions on the slopes of Everest, a strike also kept us from climbing the Acropolis on our first attempt. Athens' most popular historic site closed early the day of our arrival because some protests had gotten violent. For us, it turned out just as well: the first day of a trip to Europe is always marked by late-day exhaustion as you battle jet lag trying to stay awake through the evening. With our body clocks seven hours behind, we weren't in the best frame of mind to appreciate the Parthenon.
A peaceful moment outside the Byzantine Church of the Holy Apostles at the Ancient Agora, Athens.
We did see the more manageable Ancient Agora that first day, where everywhere you look there's a sublime site from one millennium or another.
And we would have another chance at the Acropolis. Click here for Part 2.
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Article comments
1 - Victor Lana
Jon, I was last in Greece in 2000, and this article makes me want to return. Looking forward to your next installment.
Free beer and wine in coach? Amazing!
2 - Joanne Huspek
I can't wait for the update. My grandfather was Greek and I've always wanted to visit there, although now doesn't seem to be the optimum time.
3 - Ruvy
I hope you have enjoyed/are enjoying your trip. Something to bear in mind - in places like these, there is a whole lot more history than you want to know, and chances are the events surrounding you now are linked directly to that huge pile of - history.
Like Joanne, I look forward to your next installment.
4 - Dr Dreadful
Free beer and wine in coach? Amazing!
On an American carrier, it's unprecedented.
5 - Jon Sobel
Peanuts and pretzels were free, too (and they provided meals). Funnily enough, you could BUY Pringles.
6 - Mat Brewster
The wife and I spent 10 days in Greece last fall. Beautiful country with more history packed into than one can really fathom.