Tuesday, March 18, 2014

Day 4: Cruisin'

Cruisin’ the Saronic Islands

Today was another outstanding day as we got up early & boarded our boat to cruise thru the Saronic Islands out in the Aegean Sea.  After a 3 hour cruise, our first stop was the island of Hydra. This spectacular island stands out as there are no cars on this island.  Actually, the only car on the island belongs to the doctor. So how do they get around??  Donkeys!  For 10 Euros, the kids went for a donkey ride thru the narrow, whitewashed alleyways. We then headed for some swimming.  4 of the kids got in…and quickly got back out as it was so cold it took their breath away. But, they took the plunge!!
Next stop was Poros…a quick stop to check out the view from the clock tower. This island allows cars. Still has whitewashed buildings with very colorful shutters & windows.
Last stop of the day was Aegina, the largest of the islands and quite spectacular.  They are known for their Pistachio nuts and there were trees everywhere.  We opted to do an excursion to see the sights and went to see the Temple of Afaia. This temple, older than the Parthenon, is in pretty amazing condition. It’s this Temple, the Parthenon, and the Temple of Poseidon that create an exact isosceles triangle. Those Greeks were amazing!
We ended the day cruising back into Athens and the sunset…sigh…lovely! The weather couldn’t have been more perfect. Sunny, 70s.  We all got some sun…some got a little more than others. But a fantastic day was had by all!!
Tomorrow we’re leaving Athens & heading to Delphi, the center of the universe!

Kalispera!

Kids at the Temple of Afaea








Swimmers on the island of Hydra

At the clocktower on Poros

At the top of Aegina, with Athens in the background

Daily ice cream pic

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Donkeys or Horses? Which is the better ride? Looks like the smiles say it all!