September 25, 2012
We loaded up the bus and it was on to the ruins of Mystras. Dad and I broke off from the group to explore the ruins on our own. Walking around the only sound was the bells on goats from nearby farms. I found another church with beautiful frescos adorning the ceilings and walls. Back on the road we stopped in Sparta for lunch and then it was onto the seaside town of Nafplio for two nights. We stayed at Hotel Marianna. Our room opened to a glorious view of the town. The group met Colin in the town square for a brief orientation before heading to a Greek wine and ouzo tasting. |
September 26, 2012
Dad and I enjoyed breakfast on the roof top terrace overlooking Nafplio before we hopped the bus to nearby Mycenae. Local guide Patti led us through the museum, archaeological site and the bee-hive shaped grave Treasury of Atreus. Patti explained that only 10% of the entire site had been excavated. We walked through the Lion’s Gate to enter the site and continued up the hill. At the top of the hill there were fabulous views of the surrounding countryside and ocean in the distance. Today was one of the hottest days of the tour with temperatures reaching over 100 degrees. |
Back onto the bus and we returned to Napfplio. Before our group dinner Dad and I took some time to do some
shopping. All throughout Greece I have seen eye shaped jewelry and trinkets made of blue glass. I stopped in one of the little jewelry shops to buy something for my sister and friends. I asked one of the sales ladies the significance of the eye. She said it was called an evil eye and explained it was a symbol for good luck. In Greece it is a common practice to give a newborn an evil eye charm for protection. Dinner was an unbelievable event! Our hosts of the little taverna went out of their way to make an unforgettable night for us. It was a nice addition to have Patti join us for the evening. The food was delicious and seemed to keep coming. Two musicians serenaded us during dinner. After dinner the place really popped when four dancers joined the musicians. Tables and chairs were moved for an impromptu dance floor. Our entire group was clapping and laughter filled the air. As the evening continued some individual tour members were “coaxed” onto the dance floor to show some moves. At the end we all were on our feet dancing around the restaurant. It was an absolutely wonderful and magical night which will not be forgotten soon. Greece just keeps getting better and better! |