Wednesday, April 27, 2011

It's not all Greek in Greece

The country of Greece can best be summed up as a wholesome destination that offers so much more than just a pretty picture that can be hung on a wall. There are experiences and activities that are thankfully beyond one's confines of imagination. The past has been glorious, and the present, well, let's just say it has the dubious distinction of throwing a curve ball every once in a while. The main reason for such a situation is that the past is worshipped and admired so dedicatedly that nobody, not even the locals, seem to appreciate the rapid strides the country has taken in the present as far as development in every possible sphere of life is concerned.

Ever since Greece was inducted into the EU, its transformation from an agrarian society known only for its beaches, olive oil and islands has been tremendous. However, the development has come at a price, with faster sea travel replacing slow and romantic short voyages and home cooked food is now replaced by stir fried lamb, tacos and sushi. However, despite all these sacrifices, so to speak, the country and its people enjoy the attention they are getting, and it's pretty easy to see why. The hospitable nature of the Greeks has been in their culture for generations, and is also a pleasant thing for the tourists, who love a destination where the people are welcoming them, and not treating them as hostile strangers.

Thessaloniki: The cultural capital of Greece is probably the only spot in Greece where one would like to wilfully splurge money, and not regret it! Sure, there is also a great repertoire of other lucrative things like sumptuous desserts, fine dining, scintillating nightlife and a great shopping scene. But the real deal here is not all this. In fact, what keeps people coming over, over and over again, is the collection of symbols from the shining past of the city. Be it the 4th century Church of Agios Dimitrios, a fine display of architecture, or the White Tower adjoining the Byzantine walls, or for that matter, the sculpted Arch of Galerius in Kamara, the art and cultural heritage is simply amazing! It scores over Athens in many parameters. It is not as crowdy, the air is much cleaner and is a fun place to be.

Patmos: Known mostly for its effervescent spirit of gaiety, the moment one steps off the ferry on the northernmost Dodecanese island, the joy of being at a place that has so much substance comes rushing in. A bit of history 0 John the Divine wrote the book of Apocalypse on this island, and that is just one of the reasons why it is a place of pilgrimage for Western and Orthodox Christians, besides being the best place to experience Orthodox Easter. Getting over spirituality, there are fantastic beaches, reasonably affordable accommodation and great dining options.

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