Hellas, the Land of Gods

 

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The Hellenic Republic, or as we all know it, Greece, the Land of Gods, is the home of old civilizations. It is the country surrounded by myths, legends and philosophy. Historical sites put it on the map of cultural travellers. Its islands make it the destination for leisure and party tourists. The cuisine attracts the gourmands. Its old Orthodox churches make it the land of pilgrims. No matter what you travel for, in Greece would be a place for you. 

In my case, most of my trips to Greece were for summer holidays: relaxing by the pool, explore one or two cities and eat delicious local food. I went on a school trip to Nei Pori, a very youth friendly beach destination. With my family and family-friends I went to Paralia Katerini and Halkidiki, two budget friendly resorts. And my top favourite places I've visited in Hellas: Thessaloniki and Rhodes. I will give you some recommendations of day trips you can do and  some must-see places. 

https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Meteora_-_ Greece.jpg

Those three seaside settlements mentioned above could be a good choice if you wanna stay on the mainland. Though Greece is known for its great islands, the mainland hosts many historical sites and sandy beaches, which you can always combine. You can join a bus tour with a local guide, or rent a car and take few days trips around. 

A few hours away from Paralia Katerini is Meteora. It is a stunning natural beauty. There are high rock formations and on top are several Orthodox churches. The church complex is second most important, after Athos. You will have to climb up several stairs to visit the monasteries. You will have to cover your shoulders and women must wear long skirts. 

https://pixabay/com/ro/photos/muntele-athos-grecia-manastirea-90616/

Also, from Paralia you join a boat tour to Mount Athos. While men would be able to visit the monasteries, women can only see it from the boat. However, ordinary tourists cannot simply go to Athos. There is some paperwork to be done in advance. The boat tour is a relaxing one and it offers a great view over the mountain. 

About one hour drive, you can find Tembi valley, a place where the Orthodoxes are paying their tributes to Saint Parascheva. They say the  spring water overthere is holly and you should wash your face with it, to be protected.

Furthermore, you should be visiting Thessaloniki. It is a nice city, located by the sea and with a rich history. Walk on the promenade. Take a break by the water to enjoy the sunset. You will have the White tower just behind you .Visit the Ana Poli district, the historical center - when the city set on fire in 1917, this district was the only one to survive. The city has a few archaeological sites in a great shape. Check before and make sure you visit some. My favourite part by far, was a morning walk before the rest of tourists got up. Wake up early and go for a walk. Find a local pastry shop, grab a coffee and a steaming hot pie. The city is covered in the smell of those hot pies: with cheese, spinach, pumpkin or even meat. Oh yeah, de-li-cious!!!

                  By Dimitrisvetsikas, https://pixabay.com/ro/photos/grecia-thessaloniki-turnul-arl-2710567/

The only Greek island I've visited was Rhodes. It is a nice island, with great weather, and a beautiful center. Walk through the city center, a UNESCO cultural heritage with a medieval aura! Visit the Valley of Butterflies - in summer, thousands of butterflies are flying around. Admire the Colossus of Rhodes and visit the castles. There are several castles on the island. Even though there are mostly ruins, the majority are on high hills providing you a great view.  

There are more places to be visited: Athens, Santorini or Corinth, for example! 

When it comes to food, my favourite is the cheese pie! But Greece has great seafood dishes. Or the meaty musaka. You can enjoy a juicy baklava, or a savory tzatziki. Any cheese based meal or snack is a treat. Grab a traditional coffee. Shot a shot of Ouzo. Drink a local wine! And if you have the opportunity join the local celebrations on Christmas or Easter, or spend a New Years Eve with them. Music, dance and lots of fun all night, plus the classic plates smash at the end, so all the "old" goes away and a new joyful life begins!

So here we toast for new beginnings! Let me know what you love about Hellas and if it is on your list for this 2021.

Take care and see the world!







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