Den Griechen auf der Spur...

Plans are known to be adjusted from time to time. Originally, I wanted to take some time to explore some islands in the Aegean Sea. However, since I needed more time for Jordan and Israel and found out that the off-season has already begun in Greece, with many places closed and the weather not suitable for swimming, I ended up spending 'only' a week in Athens. But it was a week in which I thoroughly explored the capital city.

For the first few nights, I stayed in hostels as usual, but for the second part, I treated myself to a vacation apartment where I fully enjoyed the privacy, the luxurious shower, and the most comfortable bed I have ever slept in.

The abundance of old buildings, ruins, columns, and everything else that is naturally integrated into the cityscape strongly reminds me of my favorite city, Rome. Needless to say, I feel right at home here. This feeling is also enhanced by the many delicious treats like olives, cheese, and red wine.

The fact that Athenians are food lovers is evident in the bustling market where you can find almost anything edible. I unintentionally found myself in the huge meat and fish section. The products looked very fresh, or at least that's what I could tell with a quick glance. However, when I saw a whole rabbit with its white fur removed except for its tail, a barrel full of pig's feet, or a butcher's assistant plucking an eye out of a cow's head with a knife, I couldn't help but wonder how these animal parts are used in Greek cuisine. It's a relief to be less responsible as a vegetarian, but the sight and the uncomfortable feeling don't make it any easier.

On one of the first days, a marathon took place in Athens. The entire city was filled with athletic people from all over the world, either running the full distance or a shorter route. I spent some time watching in the ancient stadium, which is rarely used nowadays due to its peculiar shape, where the athletes finished their race. It was wonderful to see their surprised faces when they saw the cheering crowd as they entered the stadium. And how proud and emotional they were as they crossed the finish line. Some waved flags of their home countries, others dressed up in costumes and traditional attire. Some even carried their young children in their arms for the last 100 meters so they could experience the feeling. There was even a wheelchair-bound sports enthusiast being pushed along. Shortly after, a particular song played and the stadium announcer explained that a runner wanted to thank all his friends and family for their support over the years. It was his 35th marathon on that day. It was a very emotional afternoon and I was genuinely happy for everyone, feeling as if I had run the race myself.

Although the touristy areas are very clean, other parts of the city are marked by trash on the streets and stray cats. The overall job situation is very tense. Officially, the unemployment rate is over 20%, and a much higher number is believed to be the reality. Unfortunately, this often affects young people who are increasingly seeking opportunities abroad in other European countries. Opinions seem to be divided. On one hand, people understand that the older generation has hindered progress due to mismanagement and now restructuring is necessary. On the other hand, there is a lack of understanding and even accusations towards the Germans, who are blamed for interfering with the familiar circumstances and being responsible for the cuts. As a result, German citizens are not welcome everywhere. Personally, I did not have any negative experiences.

When strolling through the streets and keeping my eyes open, I found a lot of street art compared to other cities. Okay, it might be that ever since the guided street art tour in Tel Aviv, I have been paying more attention. Nevertheless, I like it and it shows what issues people are concerned about.

The highlight of my time in Athens was when I saw the guards of the palace (not a royal palace!) and their uniforms, including the changing of the guard ceremony. It was hilarious to see them trying to imitate horse hooves with the tassels on their feet, which serve as an affront to the Turks who wear similar tassels on their heads, and their shoes spiked with over 100 nails.

In the end, I am a bit sad that I didn't have more time for the islands, but I have promised myself to make up for it in the future.