Sunday, October 22, 2023

Athens hotel with great breakfast and great views of the city









The buffet breakfast at my hotel (Brown Acropol on Omonia Square) is a vibrant feast for all the senses. There are a variety of breads, hot meats, grilled vegetables, pastries, yogurt, fruits, cold cuts, juices, nuts, sausage, yogurt, cheeses, cereals,  jellies, jams, fresh honey, and fabulous coffee machines that make everything from cappuccinos to lattes to expresso. There are even some Greek specialties such a spinach pie, grilled eggplant, roasted sweet potato with feta, grilled red peppers, and more. The champagne is also flowing freely.


The restaurant is surrounded by stunning expansive views of Athens including Leviticus hill and the Acropolis.


I can’t believe I will be on a cruise ship soon where I will have this abundance of the delights every day for 24 days. When you live alone, you don’t dine this lavishly for breakfast everyday!! (I booked this room for €97.)


Here are night time views of the acropolis from my hotel:
















Saturday, October 21, 2023

A culinary adventure in Athens

As I strolled through the vibrant streets of Athens, I couldn’t help but notice the subtle changes in the air—and prices. While Greece has seen a surge in costs, the allure of affordable and delicious street food remains.

My latest gastronomic discovery led me to a charming hole-in-the-wall where, for just three euros, I indulged in a scrumptious gyro accompanied by perfectly seasoned fries. It was a taste of Greece that didn’t break the bank, proving that you can still savor the local flavors on a budget.


For my sweet tooth, a nearby bakery beckoned me with the promise of a heavenly dessert. A mere one euro secured me a fresh slice of baklava that left my taste buds dancing in delight. It was a sweet deal in every sense.

When it comes to dining recommendations, I take a unique approach—I let my senses guide me. Window shopping for eateries allows my eyes and nose to collaborate, leading me to hidden culinary gems. No asking for suggestions; I prefer the spontaneity of discovering a place that resonates with both my cravings and the local vibe.


One valuable piece of advice: follow the locals. In my quest for the perfect gyro, I stumbled upon a gyro and kebab joint conveniently nestled near my hotel, right on the perimeter of Omonia Square—the lively heart of Athens. Here, the energy of the city pulsates, and the aroma of sizzling meats lures you in.


In the midst of rising prices, Athens still holds the secret to affordable gastronomic bliss. So, the next time you find yourself in the cradle of ancient civilization, let your senses be your guide, follow the locals, and embark on a culinary adventure that won’t just satisfy your taste buds but also your wallet. Opa!










Friday, October 20, 2023

Cruise for 24 days!!

It’s Travel Time‼️ I’m headed to Athens to embark on a 24-day cruise, exploring historically rich Mediterranean cities and then, taking a relaxing transatlantic sailing back to the US. In all, I will visit 17 ports of call in Greece, Italy, France, Spain, Portugal, the Azores, Madeira, and Bermuda and I will enjoy a fun Halloween party on board. My pre-cruise Athens hotel has spectacular views of the acropolis! Can’t wait for sunny destinations, music, games, learning, laughing, dancing, feasting, round-the-clock pampering, round-the-clock, entertainment, unpacking only once, enjoying sunrises and sunsets, and simply enjoying life at sea. Let the countdown begin!😎🌅

PS. Once again, I got a deal of a lifetime.





An adventure in Iran’s capital

 “Tea, Transit, and Tehran: A Cultural Adventure in Iran’s Capital” https://youtu.be/NUaDwbr7K-w?si=HbhW9pOZ7HHG0XxT I just watched a deligh...