Exploring London and Paris through Gate 1 Travel

3 December 20243 May 2025

Booking a last minute trip to London and Paris through Gate 1 Travel, this vacation would include many first experiences for me. l would finally be exploring two of the most popular travel destinations for the first time and managing my travel through an independent tour company. I could not pass up this deal where I would spend three days in London and then three days in Paris for under $1400, including round trip flight from Columbus, a flight to Paris from London, transportation to and from the airport, three excursions and the additional single supplement fee, which is usually an outrageous add-on.

For London, my tours included bus transportation throughout the city, a ride along the Thames and a day touring Bath, Windsor and Stonehenge.

In Paris, I booked the Hop On/Hop Off bus which also included a river cruise down the Seine, a night tour of Paris and a day in Versailles. Granted, I am taking my chances by traveling in February for the weather, but I am up for the challenge.

The day of departure arrived and for starters, the Delta flight coming in from JFK was delayed. I would not be able to make my connection. The gate agent stated that I would need to come back tomorrow and that they would rebook me for an earlier flight. In hopes that they would help me reach my destination by tomorrow morning, I explained that I was traveling light with a carry on and wanted to see if there were other flights traveling to Heathrow. I was so happy when Rodney was able to reroute me through Atlanta. The flight was currently boarding and was only a couple of gates down from where I was standing. I would be arriving an hour and a half later, so I called Gate 1 Travel and they made arrangements to have a driver pick me up at my rescheduled time.

Arriving in Atlanta, I needed to reach Terminal E and we had arrived in Terminal B. Everything was running smoothly to reach my gate in Atlanta and shortly after taking a seat in the concourse, Zone 3 is called and I board the plane, eager to find my seat. I am so relaxed and looking forward to take off. What a crazy start to my trip, but it is all working out in my favor.

I decided to watch The Girl on the Train and soon after leaving Atlanta, I was provided dinner which includes pasta, shrimp cocktail, salad, cheese and crackers and a brownie. I ordered a couple of glasses of white wine (included with the international flight) in hopes that I will be able to fall asleep sooner. Unfortunately, it seemed to have the opposite effect and I could not manage to find a comfortable position. After the movie, I played a couple of games of Bingo and finally rested before I realized that daylight was slipping through the window.

This was possibly one of the worst landings I have ever experienced, not by any fault of the pilot, but apparently we had wind gusts of 30 to 40 miles per hour. I was so happy to be on the ground and ready to bolt for ground transportation.

Customs and immigration took less than ten minutes and I was in search of the driver, so kindly arranged by Gate 1 after reaching baggage claim. I finally found Fernandes after searching through a crowd of hand-held signs and learned that he would be picking up additional passengers to include a newlywed couple and another solo traveler.

I was so happy that I packed my winter coat, scarf and umbrella at the last minute with a forecast of rain, rain and more rain. Our driver explained that the winds were exceptionally strong and unusual for this time of year. Leaving the Heathrow Airport, the scenery from the airport to the West End was grey and industrial. I would be staying at the charming Ambassador Hotel for the next three days.

I checked in at the front desk and learned that I was too early to enter my room, and that the hotel staff was working quickly to help accommodate a large group that was waiting in the lobby. I was asked to take a seat and they would call me as soon as my room had been cleaned. I picked up a few brochures and reviewed some of the additional tours available and within minutes I was dropping off my luggage and heading out into London to find a bank to exchange some money, Off to find a place for Fish and Chips and a pint. Welcome to London.

Trying to reach the Thames River where I could reach Westminster Abbey, somehow, I managed to walk in a circle in an hour’s time. I’m not sure if I was lost because I had not had enough sleep or of it was merely because I could not read the map. I found the MetroBank where I exchanged $100 for British Pounds (72 BPs to be exact) and by now starting to feel hungry. I asked the bank attendant if she could direct me towards a restaurant with fish and chips, which was easy enough. Just around the corner is the Earl’s Court Tavern Taylor Walker and within 20 seconds I am entering the pub. I placed my order for a pint of Punk IPA and the Ultimate Fish and Chips, not settling for anything less than ultimate on this vacation.

Either I was extremely hungry, or this was the best fish I had ever tasted. The batter was perfectly crisp and warming me up on the inside. I had as much malt vinegar as I wanted for drowning my fish and fries, careful not to contaminate my peas. My bill came to a little over 18 BPs without the tip and the pub began to fill up for happy hour just as I was ready to leave.

Exiting the pub, the wind had picked up and my hair was flying in every direction possible. The sky was spitting rain and I was being pelted by dirt and any type of debris that could have been picked up in 30 degree winds. I thought it best to turn in early and reach my hotel before dusk.

There were several apartments and pubs where the local police were assisting with flying debris from balconies and windowsills. I was ready for a great night’s sleep so I could wake early to watch the sunrise down at the Thames. The weather was once again calling for rain, so I would be prepared with my raincoat, umbrella and new pair of wellies.

I arrived at the hotel, unpacked my belongings and turned on the television, which is something I do not typically do on holiday. Flipping through channels, I happened upon the British Bravo television show of the Ladies of London, where I watched a couple of episodes back to back. Seriously, now I will need to find the Eclipse Bar so I can order a watermelon martini and isn’t Sophie the most amazing Brit with her fabulous hair?

Needing to have at least a couple of hours of sleep before the early dawn, I finally switched off the telly and feeling a bit knackard (tired), I enjoyed an amazing night of restful slumber. I can’t wait to explore London tomorrow!

Have you been to London? What fun “touristy” things did you attempt during your visit? I would love to hear all about your adventure if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my first day (short as it was) in London and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Watch Ladies of London on the local television station!

Check out my later posts for a list of amazing attractions in London…

Where to Stay:

The Ambassadors Hotel
16 Collingham Road
Kensington, SW5 0LX
London, United Kingdom
Telephone: +44 20 7373 1075
Photo Credit: Ambassadors Hotel London

Where to Eat:

Earl’s Court Tavern
Taylor Walker
187 Earl’s Court Road
London, SW5 9RL
United Kingdom
Telephone: +44 20 7370 2760

I ordered the Fish and Chips and a local beer for dinner.

What to Eat:

Fish and Chips – fried fish and French fries
Sunday Roast with Yorkshire Pudding – usually eaten from noon to five on Sundays
Full English Breakfast – includes eggs, sausages, potatoes, mushrooms, blood pudding, tomatoes and toast
Pie and Mash – typically a simple steak and kidney pie or pork pies, this is a classic British comfort food served with mashed potatoes and gravy
Bangers and Mash – which is sausage served with mashed potatoes and gravy
Cockles – a small type of clam
Eton Mess – a dessert made of merengue, cream and strawberries
Sticky Toffee Pudding – a moist sponge cake baked with dates or raisins and smothered in toffee sauce served with custard or ice cream
Afternoon tea – with teacakes, scones, jam and clotted cream as well as champagne and tea
Beef Wellington – filet steak covered with pate and wrapped in puff pastry

Where to Drink:

Eclipse Bar
158 Old Brompton Road
South Kensington, London, SW5 0BA England
Telephone: +44 20 7259 2577

What to Read:

The Light Over London, by Julia Kelly
London: The Biography, by Peter Ackroyd
The Five, by Hallie Rubenhold
London: A Travel Guide Through Time, by Dr. Matthew Green
The Diaries of Samuel Pepys

Photo Guide to London:

Inside the Natural History Museum
Oxford Street and Regent Street – lovely street photos
Neal’s Yard – colorful surroundings
Notting Hill and Ladbroke Square- upscale architecture
Portobello Street and Hillgate Place – pastel colored flats
Leadenhall Market
Peggy Porschen Cakes
Coppa Club
Churchill Arms Pub
Tower Bridge
St. Paul’s Cathedral
Millennium Bridge

The Theater of Miletus

26 September 202317 March 2025

On a tour of Turkey, our group made a quick stop at Turkmen Carpets where we learned how carpets were made. I saw, first-hand, the exquisite work that was put into themcreation of these carpets by some of the local weavers before we boarded the tour bus for our next location, Miletus.

The archaeological site of Miletus, a once prosperous Turkish city, was one of the principal Ionian cities of Asia Minor. It was also a stop on Apostle Paul’s third missionary journey. As our coach approached the site, we noticed the outer wall of the theater, visible from the tour bus and a large space of hewn stone. It was hard to believe that at one time, Miletus was the wealthiest of all Greek cities during the Hellenistic era.

The theater is only one stop on our trip to Miletus. This large structures is similar to our theatrical stages of today and was built into a hill between the Bay of Lions and the Theater Harbor. Sixty rows of seats climb to the top with a seating capacity of 15,000 spectators. Construction began in the 4^th century BC but improvements were made under the direction of Emperor Trajan. The third level was later added with ornate decorations to the columns representing hunting scenes with the god Eros.

According to historian Josephus, there was a Greek inscription on the fifth row that read, “For the Jews and the God-fearers.” It was a reminder of Rome’s “tolerance of the Jews” that resided in Miletus and were permitted to attend the theater.

We climbed up to the seats which would have been reserved for the upper class in the first few rows. I could clearly see the three sections of the Roman theatre that included the backstage area, additional seating arrangements for the audience and the orchestra. The productions would have been nothing less than extravagant and the acoustics, spectacular.

Looking into the stadium, there were four columns that seemed set apart from the general population’s seating area. Known as the “Royal Box”, it was located in the center of the first few rows and was designated as an exclusive box for the emperors. The columns were used to drape a covering over the area to shade the royals from the inclement weather and heat of the sun.

An interesting feature of the Miletus theater were the lion paws on the outer edge of the benched seats. Lions were symbols of strength and royalty back in the ancient days and the ornate design seemed to suggest that this was once a flourishing city.

Even the small details that our tour guide pointed out were absolutely fascinating. For example, taking a closer look at the stone platform designated for the Emperor and his family, we could see the awning attachments.

Gazing up towards the high seats of the Miletus Theater, I could clearly see the third row addition. The cave-like entrances provided a way in and out of the theater. The added space would have also minimized the interaction between the upper and lower class.

Just as the spectators would have left the theater, we made our way out towards the public structures of this well-preserved archaeological site. Our guide pointed out some of the major points of interest, but with such little time, we could only see some of these ruins from afar. There was so much to explore in the town of Miletus.

Have you traveled to Miletus? What were some of the places that interested you? I would love to hear about your visit if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my excurstion to Miletus! Wishing you many Happy Travels!

To learn more about the archaeological site of Miletus, check out my recent blog post, The Baths of Miletus.

For more information about the beautiful, exotic country of Turkey, check out the following links!

Topkapki Palace
The Blue Mosque
Hagia Sophia
Spice Bazaar and Hippodrome
Ephesus, Turkey: A Journey Back in Time
A Turkish Carpet Demonstration
Kusadasi and its Symbol of Peace
The Baths of Miletus

The Baths of Miletus

19 September 202317 March 2025

Approaching the archaeological site of Miletus, it is obvious that there is a large influence of Roman architecture and tradition that once made an impact on this city. One of the more important customs was that of public bathing.

In the city of Miletus there were three bathing areas: the Capito Thermae, Humei Tope Thermae (in the north) and the Faustina Thermae operating in the south. During the First Century BC, Cnaeus Vergilius Capito donated the resources for a large building complex which would contain an exercise area and baths. An inscription located on the northern section of the Ionic Stoa, confirms his donation. Because baths were more of a social activity among the Romans, this compound was perfectly situated between the Delphinion and the Hellenistic Gymnasium. In the Palaestra, the exercise area, was a swimming pool. There were three sections to the baths (Thermae) which were the dressing rooms, the warm bath and the hot bath.

The Delphinion was built near the Harbour of Lions as a sanctuary of Apollo Delphinios who was the patron saint of sailors and ships. It was first constructed in the 6^th century BC, and went through several updates before it was destroyed in the 5^th century AD. The ruins clearly show the remains of a circular temple which was once protected by a roof and sheltered the altar where the residents brought their offerings. There were inscriptions found on the inner walls of the stoa and on the stelae indicating that this location was also once the city’s archive.

Many of the ancient ruins were not without a Nymphaem, which was one of the most important features of the city. This fountain was considered to be one of the most impressive of all of the Ionian cities. A three story structure with a façade that displayed Corinthian columns, it is said to have looked much like the façade of the Library of Celsius in Ephesus. You can find the Nymphaem on the western part of the city between the northern Capito Thermae and the southern North Agora and the Gymnasium of Eudemus. The structure also contained niches and pedestals on which statues would be displayed. The statues represented gods and demi-gods and it was estimated that there was a total of 27 throughout the building.

The South Gymnasium also known as the Gymnasium of Eudemis, was built on a north to south axis on the southern part of the city. On the esatern side of the Sacred way leading to the sanctuary of Didymia is an Ionic Stoa. It was quite long with seven steps leading up to the 36 columns supporting a beautifully decorated frieze. The original structure was built during the Flavian dynasty and further alterations were completed during the time of the Emperor Trajan.

Within close proximity to the theater were the Faustina Baths, which were built in the second century AD under the direction of Marcus Aurelius’ wife. These were the dressing rooms for the baths. At its height, the baths were an extensive complex with large fountains in various shapes such as the river god Meander, a small lion and other statues of the gods.

The building was a single story structure which included hot and cold baths, an area for physical exercizes and exquisite sculpture decoration. There were 13 rooms on each side which acted as changing rooms for the visitors. There were also beds provided in these rooms for the visitors in the event that they would want to rest.

While visiting Miletus, it is a bit difficult to imagine that this city was once a port town, situated on a peninsula, with three harbors on the west and one on the east. The harbors have since silted up to the point that the site now sits 5 miles inland. Today it is a popular shore excursion from the cruise lines that port in Kusadasi and is well worth the visit if you have an interest in ancient ruins, history and religion.

Have you had the pleasure of visiting Miletus? What aspects of the ancient city did you find fascinating? I would love to hear about your travel experience if you will kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for escaping away with me to Miletus and I hope you have many Happy Travels in your near future!

For more information about the beautiful, exotic country of Turkey, check out the following links!

Topkapki Palace
The Blue Mosque
Hagia Sophia
Spice Bazaar and Hippodrome
Ephesus, Turkey: A Journey Back in Time
A Turkish Carpet Demonstration
Kusadasi and its Symbol of Peace
The Theater of Miletus

A Masterpiece of Athens Architecture, The Acropolis

12 September 202315 April 2025

First inhabited by the Mycenaeans, the Acropolis (acro, meaning high and polis, meaning city), towers 490 feet over the city of Athens. Strategically positioned on a large boulder of limestone, the ancient, hilltop citadel has been in existence for over 3500 years. Acting as both a fortress and place of worship over the years, it is the symbol of Athens and represents the classical civilization of Greek. The main structures of the Acropolis include the Temple of Athena Nike, the Parthenon, the Erechtheion and the Propylaia, many of which were completed during the Golden Age of Pericles. This inconceivable scale of buildings have been in a constant state of renovation since 1975.

The Acropolis is only accessible by its western end. This was once the entrance of the Acropolis during the Hekatombaion celebration to the goddess Athena. It was here that the Greeks built a sanctuary in her honor which included a colossal bronze statue of the goddess, designed and built by Pheidias.

The Odeon of Herodes Atticus is located close to the entrance to the Acropolis. It is also known as the Herodeon and “Yanni’s Theater”. It was constructed between 160 and 170AD by Herodes Atticus, a Greek aristocrat as well as a Roman senator. While this magnificent structure shows the grandeur of Greek architecture, its phenomenal staircases and mosaics are no longer visible.

The 5,000 seat (34 tiers) amphitheater functions as a venue for various modern cultural events such as festivals and concerts: Frank Sinatra – 1962; The Miss Universe pageant – 1973; Luciano Pavarotti – 1991 and 2004; But the most remembered concert was Yanni’s Live at the Acropolis in 1993. Sting, Elton John, Liza Minnelli, Diana Ross, Jean Michel Jarre, and a long list of Greek entertainers have also performed here over the years.

Upon reaching the Acropolis, visitors will enter the Beule Gate built by Flavius Septimus Marcellinus in AD 280. During Roman times, this was the official entrance to the Acropolis.

After passing through the gate, a brief climb heads towards the Propylaea, which is quite steep. Propylaea means “gates in front of something”. This was the entrance into the Acropolis during the Golden Age of Athens. It was originally decorated with statues and painted in bright colors with a marble tiled ceiling painted sky blue adorned with stars. Each year, the people of Athens would climb these steps to celebrate the Hekatombaion (1^st of the month in the day of the summer, usually July), to sacrifice 100 oxen to the goddess Athena. To the left, the Propylaia housed artwork and provided accommodations for dignitaries and important visitors called the Pinacoteca. The grey, stone, 25 foot pedestal (pictured to the left) is the Monument of Agrippa. This platform once displayed a bronze statue of the four-horse chariot driven by the chariot race winner in 178 BC. According to archaeologists, this gate is actually concealing the Mycenean Palace gate that was erected here around the 5^th century. This central walkway, continuing into the Acropolis, is named the Panathenaic Way.

Kallikrates designed the Temple of Athena Nike in Ionic style between 427 and 424 BC. It replaced the former sanctuary that was destroyed by the Persians in 479BC. The interior of the building held a wooden statue of Athena Nike holding a pomegranate in one hand and a helmet in the other. After the statue’s wings were broken, the temple became known as the Temple of Wingless Athena Nike (Nike Apteros, the Wingless Victory). The relief sculptures and Ionic columns are well-preserved.

Through the Propylaea is a vast field of stone ruins. Long ago, there was a bronze statue of Athena that once stood in this area as well as the original of Temple of Athena Polis. The bronze statue was moved from this location to Constantinople and the temple was burned down by the Persians under the reign of Xerxes in 480 BC as retaliation against the Athenians for destroying one of their temples in Sardis years before.

The Parthenon is the most recognized structure on the Acropolis and the largest measuring 228 feet long by 101 feet wide. This Doric-style creation was designed by Phidias, a sculptor and two architects, Iktinos and Kallikrates back in the fifth century BC (440s). This classical Greek masterpiece was constructed of the finest Pentelic marble from Mount Penteliko and was once the greatest temple of its time.

The 22,000 tons of precious marble was extravagantly painted in various colors, not the white marble you see today. Many architects have marveled at the complex design of this temple which is constructed on a platform of three steps measuring 228 feet long and over 100 feet wide. Serving as a Christian church as well as a mosque, the Parthenon has been in a state of renovation for many years.

The temple is surrounded by a peristyle with 17 Doric columns down each side. At the end is a double row of columns, eight on the outside and six smaller columns on the inside. Above the columns you can see the metatopes, the marble that sits atop these columns. The metatopes acted as bases for the pediments (triangular structure) which contained statues depicting mythical scenes of Athena, the city’s patron goddess. Inside of the Parthenon, there was once a large statue of Athena, which sat on the large socket that remains in the floor of the Parthenon.

The Erechtheion, located across from the Parthenon, was built in 406BC to replace the original temple that had once stood in the middle of the acropolis. It has been thought that its purpose was a place of worship for Erechtheus, the celebrated king of Athens and other significant gods. It is known to have included altars to Athena Polias, the protector of the city as well as Hephaistos, the god of blacksmiths and fire.

But it is the Caryatid Porch, the columns of six maidens, that is the most recognizable feature of this structure. The porch was the landing where the priestesses would stand to watch the procession of people and oxen during the annual Hekatombaion celebration. The original Caryatids can be found in the Acropolis Museum. Notice the olive tree to the left of the Erechtheion which is said to have been a descendant to the one that Athena planted.

A phenomenal view from the Acropolis is the Areopagus, a limestone rock which was once a place of judicial rulings for the Athenians. Several notable trials were conducted here, including the trial of Orestes for the murder of his mother, Clytemnestra.

To view the sculptures and fragments from the Parthenon as well as the original Caryotids and replicas of the Elgin Marbles, visit the Acropolis Museum. It can be seen here in the distance (the dark glass windowed building) from the south parapet.

A Greek flag flies high at the outer edge of the Acropolis. The tour guide explained the significance of this flag. It represents a historical event that occurred after the German invasion during World War II. It was told that German troops ordered that the Greek flag be replaced with the swastika after it had conquered Greece. During this time Greek soldiers would stand guard of their country’s flag and were responsible for the raising and lowering of if each day. On this very day, the Greek soldier on guard, lowered the Greek flag, wrapped it around himself and jumped over the parapet to his death. It would be a story that reached the citizens of Greece and would mark the beginning of the Greek resistance towards the Germans. A perfect example of the Greeks’ resilience and their nationalism…their strength to forge ahead.

Have you visited the spectacular city of Athens? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many thanks for reading about my day in Athens and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Acropolis
Athens 105 58, Greece

Where to Stay:

Divani Palace Acropolis
Parthenonos 19
Athens, 117 42 Greece
Telephone: +30 21 0928 0100

Where to Eat:

To Kafeneio
Epicharmou 1, Plaka
Athens, Attiki, 105 51 Greece

What to Eat:

- Baklava is layers of phyllo dough filled with nuts, spices and sweetened with honey
- Greek Salad
- Greek Wine from Santorini is unique as the grapes are grown in volcanic ash
- Gyros
- Lamb
- Local Olives
- Mashed Fava Beans (Fava me Koukia)
- Moussaka is an eggplant or potato based pie with meat and cheese
- Pomegranates
- Saganaki is a phyllo pastry stuffed with cheese and covered in honey
- Souvlaki are meat kabobs made from lamb, beef or chicken
- Spanikopita is a phyllo pastry filled with spinach, cheese, and sometimes onion
- Tomato Fritters made with tomatoes and onion, they are spiced either with oregano and peppermint then deep-fried
- Tzatziki is a yogurt based sauce with bits of garlic, onion, cucumbers, olive oil and lemon. Pita bread is usually served with this dish for dipping.

What to Read:

The Odyssey, by Homer
The King Must Die, by Mary Renault
Little Infamies, by Panos Karnezis
My Family and Other Animals, by Gerald Durrell
Uncle Petros and Goldbach’s Conjecture, by Apostolos Doxiadis
Freedem and Death, by Nikos Kazantzakis
The Dark Labyrinth, by Lawrence Durrell
The Names, by Don DeLillo
Atticus the Storyteller’s 100 Greek Myths by Lucy Coats and Anthony Lewis

Photo Guide for Athens, Greece:

Acropolis
Temple of Olympian Zeus
Ancient Agora
Dromeas “Running Man” Sculpture
Changing of the Guard (Evzones)
Panatheniac Stadium
Anafiotika Neighborhood
Mount Lycabettus
Lake Vouliagmeni
Pentelikion Waterfall

Athens, Greece: A Living Museum

5 September 202323 September 2024

Athens was once the center of civilization….the pulse of the world and believed to be the center of the universe. Today it is a living museum, full of archaeological sites and artifacts. A city steeped in history and a love for philosophy and science. In Athens, you can walk in the footsteps of countrymen who have made an impact on the world in areas such as medicine, architecture and mathematics. Over the years, Athens was a city to conquer and has suffered a few setbacks, but this ancient civilization, even today, has always managed to forge ahead.

Our first stop on our tour of Athens was Mars Hill. Traveling by bus from the airport, we passed a few sites which our guide pointed out, starting with Syntagma Square. Located northeast of the Plaka, a popular city neighborhood, the square stands in front of the neoclassical Parliament building.

Also referred to as Plateia Syntagmatos, this beautiful courtyard was once a part of the Royal Palace of Greece’s first king, King Otto I. Organized demonstrations took place here leading to the country’s historic constitution of 1843 in which they gained independence from the Ottoman Empire.

Today, the Evzone Guards, an elite unit of the Greek military perform the changing of the guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The uniforms of the guards have historical significance. The pompoms on the shoes go back to the ancient Mycenaeans. The 400 pleats in the winter skirts resemble the number years that the Greeks were under the rule of the Ottoman Empire.

At five minutes before each hour, the guard changes, providing a presentation of the crossing of the guard. On Sundays at 11AM, visitors can witness a full crossing of the guard ceremony complete with marching band.

Taking a right from the Parliament building we came upon the ruins of the Temple of Olympian Zeus and Hadrian’s Arch. The Temple of Olympian Zeus (Olympieion), measuring 360 feet by 145 feet when it was completed, towered 56 feet high. Construction began during the rule of Peisistratos and was completed by Hadrian, the Roman Emperor in 131 AD, taking over 700 years to complete.

Only 15 of the original 104 Corinthian columns remain. The structure once displayed colossal statues of both Zeus and Hadrian.

Close to the area of Lysicratu is Hadrian’s Arch which was once a dazzling white structure topped with Corinthian columns. The arch was built in 131 AD by the Roman Emperor, Hadrian who is also credited for completing the temple. On the arch side facing the traffic (west) is an inscription, “This is Athens, ancient city of Theseus” and on the east, “This is the city of Hadrian and not of Theseus”. The east side was a gateway to Roman structures which included the Temple of Olympian Zeus, also completed by Hadrian. It represents the division between Classical Greece and the Roman Province.

The Church of Agios Eleftherios was once a meeting place for the archbishops of Athens when the Ottomans prohibited them from meeting in the church within the Parthenon. Known as the “old cathedral”, this place of worship has been around since the 13^th century.

In the district of Pangratti is the Panathanaic Stadium (Kallimarmaro, “beautiful marble”), the “stadium of the first modern Olympic games”. It has since been refurbished through funding by Evangelis Zappas and George Averof.

There is a statue of George in the square near the stadium.

Known as the Areopagus, Ares’s Hill as well as Mars Hill, this amazing climb provides impressive views of historic Athens as well as a remarkable vantage point to photograph the Acropolis. This location is most popularly known as the place where the apostle Paul shared his Christian faith with local Greek intellectuals.

A panoramic View from Mars Hill, from left to right, are structures such as Ancient Agora and Thissio Park. The Plaka would be located towards the center and the Acropolis to the right. Tickets to the Acropolis are also valid for visiting the Greek and Roman Agoras, Hadrian’s Library, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Theatre of Dionysos and the Kerameikos Cemetery.

From Mars Hill, the Temple of Hephaestos, is the most intact Doric temple in Greece. It is dedicated to the god of iron workers, blacksmiths, those that worked with fire who created items such as tools, statues, jewelry and armor. It was transformed into a Christian church, the Chapel of St. George (of the dragon) which may have helped in keeping the temple in its current state.

From Mars Hill, we were now ready to explore oneof the most magnificent temples of Greek architecture, The Acropolis.

What to See and What to Do:

Syntagma Square
Athens 105, 57, Greece

Temple of Olympian Zeus
Athens 105, 57, Greece

Hadrian’s Arch
Athens 105, 57, Greece

Church of Agios Eleftherios
Acharnon 384, Athina 111 43, Greece

Panathanaic Stadium
Vasileos Konstantinou Anevue (opposite the statue of Myron Discobolus)
Athens, 116 35, Greece

Areopagus
Theorias 21, Athina 105 55, Greece

Ancient Agora
Adrianou 24, Athina 105 55, Greece

Thissio Park
Apostolou Pavlou, Athina 105 55, Greece

Hadrian’s Library
?, Areos 3, Athina 105 55, Greece

Theatre of Dionysos
The Acropolis
Mitseon 25, Athina 117 42, Greece

Kerameikos Cemetery
Ermou 148, Athina 105 53, Greece

Temple of Hephaestos
Athens 105 55, Greece

Chapel of St. George
Thrasillou 18, Athina 105 58, Greece

Acropolis
Athens 105 58, Greece

Odeon of Herodes Atticus
Dionysiou Areopagitou, Athina 105 55, Greece

Where to Stay:

AVA Hotel and Suites
9-11 Lyssikratous Street, Plaka,
Athens, Attiki, 105 51 Greece
Telephone: +30 21 00325 9000

Where to Eat:

2Mazi Restaurant
48 Nikis Street, Plaka
Athens, Attiki, 105 51 Greece

What to Eat:

- Baklava is layers of phyllo dough filled with nuts, spices and sweetened with honey
- Greek Salad
- Greek Wine from Santorini is unique as the grapes are grown in volcanic ash
- Gyros
- Lamb
- Local Olives
- Mashed Fava Beans (Fava me Koukia)
- Moussaka is an eggplant or potato based pie with meat and cheese
- Pomegranates
- Saganaki is a phyllo pastry stuffed with cheese and covered in honey
- Souvlaki are meat kabobs made from lamb, beef or chicken
- Spanikopita is a phyllo pastry filled with spinach, cheese, and sometimes onion
- Tomato Fritters made with tomatoes and onion, they are spiced either with oregano and peppermint then deep-fried
- Tzatziki is a yogurt based sauce with bits of garlic, onion, cucumbers, olive oil and lemon. Pita bread is usually served with this dish for dipping.

What to Read:

The Odyssey, by Homer
The King Must Die, by Mary Renault
Little Infamies, by Panos Karnezis
My Family and Other Animals, by Gerald Durrell
Uncle Petros and Goldbach’s Conjecture, by Apostolos Doxiadis
Freedem and Death, by Nikos Kazantzakis
The Dark Labyrinth, by Lawrence Durrell
The Names, by Don DeLillo
Atticus the Storyteller’s 100 Greek Myths by Lucy Coats and Anthony Lewis

Photo Guide for Athens, Greece:

Acropolis
Temple of Olympian Zeus
Ancient Agora
Dromeas “Running Man” Sculpture
Changing of the Guard (Evzones)
Panatheniac Stadium
Anafiotika Neighborhood
Mount Lycabettus
Lake Vouliagmeni
Pentelikion Waterfall

Corinth, a Biblical and Historical Perspective

29 August 20232 February 2025

The mainland in Greece holds such contrast to its beautiful Mediterranean islands and sailboats in the harbor. When I learned that our cruise itinerary included an excursion to Corinth, I was not certain what to expect. I only knew that this city was significant to Christians as a stop on St. Paul’s missionary tour and that a canal was built to connect the Gulf of Corinth to the Saronic Gulf as a major trade route.

Ancient Corinth is little over an hour bus ride west of Athens and our first stop was at the Corinth Canal. We had the opportunity to cross the bridge to marvel at this engineering phenomenon which took decades to complete. Visitors can cross over one of two bridges to take a closer look at the depth and length of the passageway. At its deepest, it measures 26 feet. Carved through solid rock, this sensational man-made canal became a major trade route for Greece after its completion.

Once we had finished our stop at the Corinth Canal, we had a few moments to explore the nearby shop before boarding the bus for a trip to the ruins of Ancient Corinth.

Spread out, and found undisturbed in the middle of nowhere, we arrived at the archaeological site and museum of Ancient Corinth. The location was surrounded by fields and hills, where a small Greek Orthodox Church provided solace to a sheep herder with his flock making their way to the next pasture.

The Ancient Corinth Museum was a short walk from the ancient ruins. The structure houses many of the archaeological artifacts including sculptures and engravings that were found at the site. It was here where the tour began as our friendly guide proudly discussed the relics and treasures that were discovered during the excavation. We noticed that there were quite a few headless statues located in the open air courtyard and learned that instead of making new statues, it was easier to replace the heads to include the likeness of the new rulers.

Samples of ancient Greek writing was also uncovered during the dig and they were beautifully displayed at the museum. I admired the elegance of the language in script and our guide read each of them carefully. The tablets appeared similar to today’s English language, but yet so different, especially in the way it had sound.

After a visit to the museum, we were led outside to explore the historical site of Ancient Corinth. The Temple of Apollo stood forefront over this site which once rivaled the city of Athens in both wealth and power. The Doric columns stood tall and mighty as a layer of clouds rolled in over this magnificent place. Built by the Greeks in 550 BC, only seven of its thirty-eight columns remain.

Within a short walk from the temple, the Roman Market was one of the most impressive sites of the ruins. Stalls that had once been concealed, showed the layout and structure of this large shopping plaza, the center of socialization in Corinth. In the courtyard there was once an ancient Roman fountain, known as the Fountain of Pirene, which was said to be the favorite watering-hole of Pegasus, a mythical horse with wings.

Additional structures that have been excavated and identified to date include the Propyla A as well as the Periblos of Apollo and the Bema. The Bema refers to the raised platform where a Roman magistrate or ruler sat to make decisions and pass sentence. Biblical reference to the Bema in Corinth can be found in the book of Acts where Paul was brought before Gallio, the proconsul, by local Jews. The offense was that Paul was “persuading the people to worship God in ways contrary to the law”. When Gallio refused to settle the matter, the Jews turned on the synagogue leader and beat him in front of the court. It would have been at this location where the beating took place.

A view of Akrokorinthos/Acrocorinth can be seen from the ruins of Ancient Corinth below. This town, translated as “Upper Corinth” is approximately a 30 minute drive with splendid views of the surrounding area. We were unable to visit this location, but learned that the views from here are spectacular.

The ancient site at Corinth continues on with its excavation and identification of archaeological ruins that have yet to be labeled or discovered. There still remains much work to be done on the site as a large portion of the city remains concealed beneath the countryside. It endures today as a strong spiritual and historical influence that draws thousands of visitors to this area each year. I can only imagine that with the unceasing work of researchers and archaeologists how their future progress will impact the history and findings of Ancient Corinth as we know it today.

Have you had the opportunity to explore archaeological sites that have made an impact on history? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my visit to historic Corinth! Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Ancient Corinth
Archea Korinthos
200 07, Greece
Telephone: +30 2741 031207

Hours: Daily from 8AM to 7PM
Amenities: shop and limited snacks
Scenic View: Beautiful views of AcroCorinth above.
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Arrive early in the day as there is no protection from the sun. In addition bring bottled water and snacks as food is limited at the museum. Wear comfortable shoes for walking.

Where to Stay:

Apollonio
Sisifou 2, Ancient Corinth,
Peloponnese, Greece 20007
Telephone: +30 694 941 2888

Where to Eat:

Marinos Restaurant
Ancient Corinth,
Peloponnese, Greece, 20007
Telephone: +30 27410 31 130

What to Eat:

- - Baklava: made with puffed pastry, this dessert has chopped nuts (my favorite is pistachio), and is covered in honey.
  - Choriatiki: Greek salad
  - Dolmadakia/Dolmades: stuffed grape leaves
  - Ellinikos: Greek coffee
  - Gyros
  - Kataifi: similar to baklava, but rolled
  - Moussaka: Greek’s answer to lasagna
  - Pastitsio: pasta made with noodles, ground beef and a bechamel sauce
  - Retsina Wine: has been made over 2000 years
  - Souvlaki: meat on a skewer
  - Spanikopita: pastry filled with spinach and cheese
  - Tzatziki: a Greek sauce made with yogurt, garlic, olive oil and fresh dill

What to Read:

Ancient Corinth Site Guide, by Various Writers
Cure and Cult in Ancient Corinth by Mabel Lang
Demeter and Persephone in Ancient Corinth, by Ronald S. Stroud

Santorini: Life on a Volcano
Mykonos, Greece: Whitewashed and Wild
The Island of Delos: A Lesson in Greek Mythology
Corfu…the Favorite Vacation Destination for an Empress
The Site of Olympia and its Role in the Olympic Games
The Archaeological Museum at Olympia
Athens, Greece: A Living Museum

Ephesus, Turkey and the Library of Celsius

22 August 202323 September 2024

The sun shone so warmly on my face as the ship approached the cruise port of Kusadasi. The early brilliance casted shadows upon the hills that dominate the horizon while the dimness crowded out the sight of the fort that lie ahead. Kusadasi is the perfect starting point for visiting some of the most famous historical cities of Turkey. From here I will be taking a shore excursion into Ephesus, where I will have the opportunity to explore a stop on Paul’s journey to spread the gospel of Christianity. So excited to be walking in his footsteps.

The Ephesians believed that Ephesia, the beautiful Amazonian queen, founded their city. The Amazons were considered descendants of the god of war, and thought to have been ferocious warriors. The temple of Hadrian tells of a second theory which credits Androklos as its founder and yet a third ideal states that the inhabitants of nearby Halikarnassus (today’s Bodrum) should be honored as the city’s organizers.

It was a quick bus ride and we arrived at the archaeological site, quickly making our way to the start of our early morning. There are two entrances leading into Ephesus; one is the Harbor Gate, and the other is the Magnesian Gate, which is where most guides begin their tours. The field of ruins that lay ahead of us is made of various fragments and cylindrical features. From where we were standing, we could see the Baths of the State Agora to the right which is an extension of the Agora, or shopping plaza, to the left.

The archaeological finds on this site date back to the 14th and 15th century BC. Only 4 – 5 % of the site has been excavated. Some of these items are housed in the Museum of Ephesus.

The Agora was one of the most important public meeting places during the Roman Empire. It was an open area that combined the civic center, administrative buildings and local market. There is a marble road that leads into the Agora from the entrance from where we are standing. The beautifully restored walkway brought us close to the architecture of the baths and we could closely see the various stone and archways created in this once thriving port town.

According to our tour guide, visitors and residents entering Ephesus by land would have first encountered the Agora. The primary boardwalk known as the Stoa Basileios (The Royal Walk) passed through the city’s most important structures and attractions. This road also provided access to the town’s odeon, which is similar to the theaters and music halls of today.

Passing the Agora we came upon the small town hall which was the office of the local government dignitary. Known as the Prytaneion, it was also used to host banquets for honored guests. In the center of the hall, researchers believed that there was an altar dedicated to the goddess, Hestia. Within proximity to the Prytaneion were additional statues that represented Artemis and were uncovered during the excavation of this well-preserved archaeological site.

Further off into the distance from the Prytaneion are the remains of the Roman Emperor’s Temple of Domitian. This is a two story building where displayed on the second level are the caryatids. These statues were considered a representation of the barbarian peoples that Rome had once conquered during the height of its Empire. I love the detail of these statues and find them to be some of the most well preserved artifacts along our walking tour.

We began making our descent towards a line of columns that represented Curates (Kouretes) Street, which runs between the Library of Celsius and Domitian Street. . We approached the Temple of Hadrian to our right and immediately noticed the empty pedestals that stood in front of the temple. Those men that could afford to have their busts made could also exhibit them in this area to be recognized, in a way to flatter themselves. Hadrian’s Temple was so exquisite that I wondered how it must have appeared in the height of Ephesus’ civilization.

Strolling down Curates Street, we came upon the Hercules (Heracles-Greek) Gate, which separates the uptown from the downtown area of Ephesus. It is a fascinating representation of the local god, Hercules who signified masculinity and strength. Many believed that this triumphal arch was built in the 2^nd century AD but was relocated here two centuries later.

The Fountain of Trajan (Trainus) is also located on Curates Street and is one of my favorite structures in Ephesus. What draws me to this building is the intricate artwork of its sculpted pillars as well as the fountain that once held a statue of the Emperor Trajan.

Across the street from the fountain are some of the most lavish homes of the elite Ephesians. The astounding floor tiles remain intact and display the wealth of the families that once lived here. Directly behind these Terrace Homes is a covered area where artifacts and additional research is being conducted. There is an additional charge to visit this small museum where audio recordings escort visitors through amazing frescoes, mosaics, and fountains that rival those of Pompeii and Herculaneum.

The tour of Ephesus is not without its elements of surprise. We arrived at a small area where slabs of marble line up against the wall and learned that they were used as public latrines. There are about forty seats, sitting side-by-side. Our guide explained that the public restrooms were important for conducting business between the men.
ail

The long awaited moment arrived as the Library of Celsus appeared in the distance. A grand structure rising from the ruins, this large two-story structure towered over us as we approached its stairway. The preservation of the library is extraordinary and the details of this building that has been so elegantly preserved.

The glorious marble columns framed the four statues of the library’s façade. Each figure represented the human characteristics of wisdom, excellence, judgment and expertise. It was customary that families of financial means and power would establish monuments or heroons to honor their loved ones. The Library of Celsus was a dedication to Julius Celsus Polemeanus by his son, erected in the early 2^nd century AD.

Inside of the Library of Celsus, we were met with a surprisingly simple structure that contrasted the splendid façade of the building’s exterior. In the ancient world, it was one of the largest libraries housing upwards to 15,000 scrolls. Along the inner walls were recesses that contained rolled manuscripts. This is also the burial place of Celsus, whose vault is located below the ground floor on the north side of the building.

I love the history of large cities such as Ephesus, especially those stories that involve scandal and intrigue. Our tour guide shows us an unassuming tunnel which was, according to legend, a secret passageway. It was said that the men of Ephesus would tell their wives that they were going to the library when in fact they would escape into the local brothel. There is some debate to this theory as the attitude towards sexuality was quite open during this time, but it still makes for a great story.

There were three arches that led out towards the Agora and Grand Theater of Ephesus called the Gates of Mazaeus and Mitridades, named after the slaves that built them. With their prominent Roman style architecture, the gates were built as a dedication to Emperor Augustus. Statues of his family could be seen towering above the arches on the attica, while a relief of the Hecate, the god of crossroads was prominent on the outer walls of the structure. Some sources refer to an inscription that was written on the gates which curses “those that piss here”. I wonder how well that deterred the locals.

Standing in the archway of the gate, I looked out into the Agora where shops once lined the courtyard and stalls were set up in the infield. I imagined the bustling square with the smell of food, domestic animals and sweating bodies crowding into the shopping plaza to make their purchases. This was once one of the most important trading centers in all of Ephesus.

Located just off of the Agora is The Great Theater. At the height of Ephesus’ prosperity, it was one of the largest theaters in the Roman-Greco world.

Following the death of Jesus, His apostles left Jerusalem to spread Christianity to the world. St. John arrived in Ephesus with Mary, the mother of Jesus, somewhere between 37 to 48 AD. John is credited for establishing the first Christian community here. John would later be exiled to Patmos, spending his remaining years on the Greek island.

St. Paul put Ephesus on the map when he arrived around 54 AD, staying for nearly three and a half years and wrote his letters here, including a letter to the Ephesian Christians. Ephesus was also included in his missionary tour and the story of his visit is detailed in the Bible, making it a stop for Christian pilgrimages as well.

Today it is one of the most visited by Christians around the world.

Viewing the theater from below is astounding, but I knew that if I climbed to the top, I would have an extraordinary view of the former harbor and surrounding area. Climbing up the rows of seats, I waited until I reached the top before turning around. Here I was rewarded with a dramatic, overwhelming view of the theater, hills and Harbor Street leading away from the city.

Through all of its splendor, I still find it somewhat difficult to imagine this lively, prosperous city of Ephesus regardless of its extraordinary restoration. This site holds not only historical significance, but biblical and archaeological importance as well. Researchers continue to excavate the city of Ephesus which provides a doorway into the lives of those that once lived here. I look forward to the time when I can return and learn what interesting facts they uncover.

Are you a fan of archaeological sites? What draws you to them? I would love to hear which historical locations you find interesting and inspiring if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many Thanks for reading about my fascinating journey to Ephesus and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Ephesus Archaeological Site
Ataturk Mh
Ugur Mumcu Sevgi Yolu
35920 Selcuk/Izmir, Turkey
Telephone: +90 444 MUZE (6893)

Admission Fee: 60 Turkish Lira; children 12 and under is free of charge.
Hours: The museum is open April – October from 8AM to 7PM, and November 1 – April 15 from 8AM to 5PM
Amenities: Pre-purchase of ticket online, The Terrace Homes (additional cost)
Scenic View: Beautiful views of the Celsus Library and scenes of the surrounding are are spectacular from the arena
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Arrive early in the day as there is limited cover from the sun. One can purchase tickets ahead of time. Private tours can also be purchased at the door. Wear comfortable shoes for walking. You will notice several cats that live at the site.

Where to Stay:

Livia Hotel Ephesus
Ataturk Mah. 1045 Sok. No. 25
Izmir, 39520, Selcuk, Turkey
Telephone: +90 232 892 92 99

Where to Eat:

Artemis Restaurant
Sirince Mahallesi, Sehit Yuksel
Ozulku Caddesi No. 7
35920, Sirince, Selcuk, Izmir, Turkey
Telephone: +90 232 898 32 40

I absolutely love the property surrounding the restaurant, near olive groves and vineyards. The 19th century stone building was once a village school

What to Eat:

- Baklava: made with puffed pastry, this dessert has chopped nuts (my favorite is pistachio), and is covered in honey.
- Gozleme is a type of bread that is shaped in a square and stuffed with various fillings such as meat, cheese, potatoes or vegetables and then cooked over a griddle. The cheese and spinach reminds me of spanikopita.
- Iskender Kebab: thinly sliced lamb is smothered in tomato sauce and served with traditional bread, then topped with yogurt and butter.
- Mezze is a sample of several small bites that may include yogurt with herbs, hummus, olives, dolmas (stuffed grape leaves), meatballs, eggplant, white cheese and warm bread.
- Simit is a fun street food bread that is similar to a pretzel.
- Turkish Apple Tea is absolutely amazing and was one of my favorite drinks while visiting Turkey.
- Turkish Delight: a delicious dessert is made up of dates, pistachios, hazelnuts, which is pink in color.
- Turkish Ice Cream, also known as Dondurma, is a little thicker in consistency, but it will not melt. A must try.
- Turkish Pizza is outstanding and tastes so fresh. Made from Turkish Pide (a type of pastry), it is similar to a flatbread with a variety of toppings.
- Turkish Ravioli: dumplings stuffed with beef or lamb served with yogurt.

What to Read:

The Ephesus Scroll by Ben Chenoweth
Burning of the Books at Ephesus by Sir James Thornhill
Ancient Ephesus: The History and Legacy of One of Antiquity’s Greatest Cities by Charles River Editors

Photo Guide for Ancient Ephesus:

The Facade of the Celsus Library
View from the Amphitheater

Another view of the Grand Theater and Harbor Street, Ephesus

For more information about the beautiful, exotic country of Turkey, check out the following links!

Topkapki Palace
The Blue Mosque
Hagia Sophia
Spice Bazaar and Hippodrome
A Turkish Carpet Demonstration
Kusadasi and its Symbol of Peace
The Theater of Miletus
The Baths of Miletus

A Turkish Carpet Demonstration

15 August 202323 September 2024

The mountains surrounded us as the road twisted and turned towards our destination to Turkmen Carpet Weaving Center. The weather was perfect as the sun shone down on our tour bus having just spent the afternoon in Ancient Ephesus.

Entering the center, there were magnificent Turkish carpets on display. Ranging from cotton to silk, the colors were absolutely vibrant and more spectacular than I could have ever imagined. We spent the day learning the art of carpet-making and had the opportunity to purchase one of their priceless floor coverings or specialty wall hangings.

I was mesmerized by the blue-colored threads that took on the deep blue hue of the ocean. This specific color stood out against the multi-colored backdrop of a myriad of royal colors. From runners to large area floor and wall carpets, there was a wide range of options, sizes and materials ranging from $500 to $50,000. While some of the carpets were created from camel or goat hair, it was the silk rugs that were the most popular and lucrative, bringing in thousands of dollars.

The artistic creativity of designing Turkish silk carpets begins with the silkworms themselves. The cocoon, which has been woven with serecin, is moistened with the use of hot water until it is time to remove the silk layer of the outer shell. The small tiny egg covering protects the worm inside. Holding it in my hand, it was lightweight and hollow. Shaking the egg, I could hear the worm inside.

Once the eggs have been moistened, the threads are ready to be “reeled” to create one strong strand.

Several “strings” are then combined into one thread and then transferred to a spool. From this stage, it will be dyed and ready for the weaving process.

Turkmen Carpet Weaving Center offers village weavers the ability to continue their family tradition of creating gorgeous designer carpets that have been passed down for many generations. Several looms were available and depending on the size of the rugs, it can take months before these masterpieces are complete.

Having concluded our educational lesson in carpet making, we were offered refreshments as carpets were being prepared for demonstration. We had the choice of red or white wine, raki (similar to ouzo) or apple tea. The apple tea (so yummy!), which is popular among the Turks, is a warm cider drink which was very refreshing.

We took our seats at the benches surrounding the room. Once everyone had received their drink, an entertaining “dance” of sorts was performed as carpets were rolled out for our consideration. It was overwhelming with so many shapes, sizes, colors and materials yet the show was a sight to remember.

One of my favorite rugs was a light blue with hues of light brown and off-white accents. Unfortunately, I knew it would not fit into my small living room, but I was still curious to learn the price for this amazing piece of artwork. I was even more amazed when I learned that the price tag was a staggering $14,000!

I realize that these spectacular rugs are probably worth every penny spent on them and will last for years, but I was not financially prepared to make the investment. I had such a great time watching my fellow travelers make their purchases.

Do you own a Turkish carpet? Have you ever been curious to learn how they are made? I would love to hear about your visit to Turkey and some of the items that you may have purchased if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading my post about my experience with Turkish carpets and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Turkmen Carpets
Telephone: 0232 893 12 12

Admission Fee: There is no admission fee and tour groups are provided with admission free of charge as well.
Hours: The carpet center is open every day from 9AM to 5PM
Amenities: They provide a carpet making demonstration from the time they prepare the silk to the finished product. In addition, they provide a complimentary drink which includes, red or white wine, raki (similar to ouzo) and apple tea.
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Don’t be afraid to negotiate the price as this is customary and do not be afraid to let them know you are not interested because they do not want to pressure those not interested in buying. Expect to spend money here should you decide to buy a carpet, but they are superior in quality.

Where to Stay;

DoubleTree by Hilton Kusadasi
Ataturk Bulvan
Yat Limani Karsisi
09400 Kusadasi, Turkey
Telephone: +90 256 633 60 60
Website:

Where to Eat:

Erzincan Restaurant
Camikebir mah
Yedi Eylul Sok, No. 09
Kusadasi, 09430 Aydin
Telephone: +90 538 2300230

I enjoyed the seabass served with chips, baked potato and salad.

What to Eat:

- Baklava: made with puffed pastry, this dessert has chopped nuts (my favorite is pistachio), and is covered in honey.
- Gozleme is a type of bread that is shaped in a square and stuffed with various fillings such as meat, cheese, potatoes or vegetables and then cooked over a griddle. The cheese and spinach reminds me of spanikopita.
- Iskender Kebab: thinly sliced lamb is smothered in tomato sauce and served with traditional bread, then topped with yogurt and butter.
- Mezze is a sample of several small bites that may include yogurt with herbs, hummus, olives, dolmas (stuffed grape leaves), meatballs, eggplant, white cheese and warm bread.
- Simit is a fun street food bread that is similar to a pretzel.
- Turkish Apple Tea is absolutely amazing and was one of my favorite drinks while visiting Turkey.
- Turkish Delight: a delicious dessert is made up of dates, pistachios, hazelnuts, which is pink in color.
- Turkish Ice Cream, also known as Dondurma, is a little thicker in consistency, but it will not melt. A must try.
- Turkish Pizza is outstanding and tastes so fresh. Made from Turkish Pide (a type of pastry), it is similar to a flatbread with a variety of toppings.
- Turkish Ravioli: dumplings stuffed with beef or lamb served with yogurt.

What to Read:

The Ephesus Scroll by Ben Chenoweth
Burning of the Books at Ephesus by Sir James Thornhill
Ancient Ephesus: The History and Legacy of One of Antiquity’s Greatest Cities by Charles River Editors

Photo Guide for Ancient Ephesus:

The Facade of the Celsus Library
View from the Amphitheater

CPT: Cape Town Airport

4 August 202323 September 2024

It was a wild ride, but I had finally arrived in Cape Town, South Africa. Departing the Columbus International Airport, my flight was scheduled to arrive in Atlanta, but with a delay at CMH, I was rerouted through Detroit, Michigan. Because of the delay, I missed my connection in Frankfurt, and lost a full day in Cape Town.

Waiting for my luggage by the carousel, I finally realized that my suitcase did not arrive. Baggage claim was nearby and I could see that there were several other passengers who were waiting as well. Within about twenty minutes, I stepped up to the window and was asked to complete the lost luggage claim. Handing the form back to the agent, I needed to reach the Hertz counter to pick up my rental car. I couldn’t help but take in the impressive displays and took a few moments to read up on the highlights of Cape Town.

One of the most surprising finds was to learn that South Africa was under a water restriction during my visit. From 2014 to 2017, the country’s water supply dropped from nearly 93 to 23%, resulting in a water crisis in 2018. In January, the water had reached such an all-time low, that the country issued a crisis where water conservation was the utmost of importance.

One of the most beautiful murals at the Cape Town Airport is titled “Flying Madiba.” Unveiled in 2015, this gorgeous tapestry is displayed in honor of Nelson Mandela who championed “human rights around the world.” Madiba, Mandela’s clan name, was imprisoned for his pursuit of civil rights. This spectacular artwork was designed by Czech artist Peter Sis and woven by France’s Atelier Pinton.

In my research of Cape Town before my visit, I learned so much about the wines the Cape Town area produces. I was so excited to try the various varietals, that I had actually made room in my luggage so that I could bring back a few bottles.

I was most surprised that this region has been making wines for over 350 years. With its perfect climate and soil, Cape Town produces such wines as Pinotage, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz, Merlot, Chenin Blanc, Cabernet-Sauvignon and Bordeaux-style red blends.

Kalk Bay, a cute little fishing village in Cape Town, was voted as one of the coolest towns by Forbes Magazine.

The Long Walk of Freedom display represents Robbin Island and the location where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years before the fall of apartheid. I was so excited to have made reservations to visit this historical place in the next couple of days.

The beautiful, bright colored structures remind me of the photos of the homes of Bo-Kaap, the Malay district of Cape Town. With its cobblestone streets. this neighborhood is beaming with culture, incredible restaurants and history. I was so excited to explore this amazing neighborhood and try some amazing, local cuisine.

Yet, what was even more exciting was the opportunity to see penguins on the beach. I learned that there are seven beaches in South Africa where penguins make their home: Bird Island, Boulder Beach, Dassen Island, Dyer Island, Robben Island and St. Croix Island.

So exhilarated with so many options in Cape Town, how would I decide?

Have you visited Cape Town? What was your favorite place and would you visit again? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.

Many thanks for reading about my arrival into Cape Town and I hope you read more about my amazing vacation. Wishing you many amazing travels in your future!

What to See and What to Do:

Robbin Island
Cape Town 7400 South Africa
Telephone: +27 (0) 21 409 5100

Admission Fee: Adults: R550 ($35 per adult); Children (ages 2 – 18): R310 ($18 per child)
Hours: Open daily from 9AM to 3:30PM
Amenities: scheduled tours, tour guide by former prisoners, special exhibitions, ferry transportation to the island, bus transportation on the island,
Scenic View: Gorgeous views of Cape Town from the ferry and island. There are penguins on Robben Island as well.
Length of Visit: At least 2 – 3 hours to see the highlights
Tips for Your Visit: You can pay an additional fee for pick up from your hotel. Wear comfortable shoes for walking and remember your passport. There will be plenty of opportunities for photos so don’t forget your camera. The tour is based on the weather of the seas and may be cancelled, so if you are staying over several days, select this option at the beginning of your visit to Cape Town. You may want to consider taking medication for motion sickness for the ferry. Bring additional money to tip your guide.

Top 5 Wineries in South Africa

Boschendel Wine Estate
Pniel Road, Groot
Franschhoek, 7690, South Africa
Telephone: +27 21 870 4200

One of the oldest and most picturesque wineries in South Africa, this estate is known for its Boschendel Brut.

Babylonstoren
Klapmuts, Simondium
Simondium, 7670, South Africa
Telephone: 27 21 863 3852

Babylonstoren produces 13 different grape varieties over 232 acres. In addition to its winery, Babylonstoren offers cottages, restaurants, spa treatments and garden.

Jordan Wines Stellenbosch
Stellenbosch Kloof Road, Vlottenberg
Stellenbosch, 7604, South Africa
Telephone: +27 21 881 3441

Twenty five minutes from Cape Town International Airport, the Jordan Wine Estate is an ultimate wine destination with vineyards, luxury suites, a bakery and spectacular views.

Waterkloof
Old Sir Lowry’s Pass Road, Somerset West
Cape Town, 7130, South Africa
Telephone: +27 21 858 1292

Producing organic wines on land that was once the feeding ground of local sheep, Waterkloof is a full-fledged organic farm.

Beau Constantia
1043 Constantia Main Road, Constantia
Cape Town, 7130, South Africa
Telephone: +27 21 794 8632

Overlooking False Bay, this spectacular boutique winery is also a magnificent restaurant

Kalk Bay is a 35 minute drive from Cape Town, South Africa, Known for its caves, it is recommended to schedule a tour with a local who is familiar with the cave routes. There are fabulous restaurants along the coast and lovely places to stay with scenic views.

Bo Kaap is another neighborhood in the heart of Cape Town. Colorful houses line the streets and restaurants offer traditional dishes. Dating back to the 1760’s, this area was once known as the Malay Quarter when Indonesians and Malaysians were brought here as slaves. Be sure to check out the Bo Kaap museum.

Where to Stay:

Radisson RED V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
No. 6, Silo, Silo Square, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Cape Town, 8001, South Africa
Telephone: +27 87 086 1578

Where to Eat:

Harbour House V&A Waterfront
Quay Four, Ground Floor, V&A Waterfront
Cape Town, 8001, South Africa
Telephone: +27 21 418 4744

In addition to their sushi, the views of the V&A Harbor are spectacular!

What to Eat:

Amaural Don Pedro is a dessert cocktail made from the marula fruit, indigenous fruit
Biltong and Droewors are air dried meat and sausage, a traditional South African meal. Cured with vinegar, salt, spices and sugar, this dish can also be made with ostrich and wild boar. a cream liquor made from South African
Bobotie is a dish inspired from the country’s Asian settlers. This casserole dish is made of minced meats simmered in spices then topped with egg and milk then baked.
Boerewors are sausages formed into a coil and cooked on a BBQ (braai); boer means farmer and wors is sausage.
Braii / Shisha nyama are barbecues and many butchers will set these up in front of their shops.
Bunny Chow is a popular street food in Durban where hollowed out loaf breads are filled with spicy curry.
Chakalaka & pap, a vegetable dish is typically served with barbecued meat.
Malva Pudding is a dessert inspired by the Dutch who settled in Cape Town. Similar to a sticky pudding, it is made with an apricot jam and smothered in a hot cream sauce.

What to Read:

Long Walk to Freedom, by Nelson Mandela
A History of South Africa, by Frank Welsh
Burger’s Daughter, by Nadine Gordimer
Cry, The Beloved Country, by Alan Paton
Jock of the Bushveld, by Sir James Percy Fitzpatrick

What to Photograph:

Lion’s Head – The Top and Wally’s Cave
Boulder’s Beach for the Penguins
Cape Point for its stunning views
The Bo-Kaap for its vibrant colors
Street art in Woodstock
Muizenberg and St James for their colorful bathing boxes
Top of Table Mountain
Chapman’s Peak Drive
Robben Island
The amazing wineries

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The Archaeological Museum at Olympia, Greece

22 May 20233 May 2025

The Olympia Archaeological Museum is within walking distance of the site where the first Olympic Games took place. The weather was beginning to heat up outside, so it was a welcome sight as we were met by our tour guide in the air-conditioned lobby of this fantastic exhibition of Olympic treasures.

Entering the museum, my eyes were immediately drawn to the small scale replica of the Olympic grounds. It was a perfect way for me to put the ruins that we had just visited in perspective. I could now imagine the ancient city of Olympia as it would have stood at the height of its splendor.

Continuing toward the main hall, I could see statues lined up on each side of the room. To the left were the Lapiths and Centaur statues that made up the West Pediment of the Temple of Zeus. From left to right, the lifelike figures included: The Old Ladies, Lapith Boy, Centaur with Lapith Boy, Deidama, Apollo, Theseus, seen here as the bearded man on the left, is beating up a Centaur, half man/half horse who has come down to break up a wedding reception and the god Apollo, is urging him on, Lapith Girl, and lastly, The Old Ladies.

To the right, I could see the Statues of Pelops from the East Pediment of the Temple of Zeus, which would have been located above the main entrance of the temple. It was here that the victors were crowned with their olive wreaths. From left the right the statues stood in the following order: Alpheios, Pelops Quadriga,(shown here: Hippodamia, Pelops, Zeus, Oinomaos), Sterope, Dinomaos Quadriga, Kladeos. Pelops was the mythical founder of the games and King Oenomaus prepare to compete in the chariot races. Standing beside Pelops is Hippodamia, the king’s daughter.

Exiting this room, I continued straight ahead for a view of the statue of Nike (Nee-kee), also known as the statue of Victory as well as the Nike of Paconios. It was originally located next to the Temple of Zeus. The statue is made of marble from the island of Paros. With her wings she would have towered 36 feet tall, alit on her pedestal rising above the Olympic winners during their crowning ceremony.

The room to the right of the statue of Nike contains artifacts that were found in the Workshop of Pheidias’ Room. The large cup shown as #10, was found to have an inscription that stated, “I belong to Pheidias.” There are several items displayed here that show the fascinating artistry of the ancient Greeks. With their various designs and figures of Greek gods, their possessions prove to show the importance of their religious beliefs and talent in the arts.

Set apart in its own alcove, the Hermes of Praxiteles is a masterpiece in Classical sculpture. Praxiteles was known in his day as the first artist to sculpt nude women and was the master of creating figures that were anatomically correct. This statue took Praxiteles 10 years to complete and was uncovered in the Temple of Hera. Hermes, seen here with Dionysis, is one of the most brilliant discoveries of the site of Olympia.

There were two tiers of statues lining the extravagant Nymphaeum (fountain) and they can be found by a bit of backtracking to the Workshop of Pheidias and turning left towards a long hall. This next room is lined with the statues of the emperors and their families, while the bull, located in the center of the room, would have been a central masterpiece adorning the fountain of the Nymphaeum.

It is absolutely astonishing that many of the archaeological finds from Olympia remained intact and have been restored quite nicely. For example, the Disk of the Sun, located in the Temple of Hera is a fabulous example of the preservation of these timeless artifacts. This seven and a half foot wide disk made of terra-cotta was painted in various colors. It was the akroterion that rested upon the crest of the temple’s roof, representing the virtue of truth.

The prize for winning the Olympic Games were not medals like the athletes receive today. Some of the gifts may have included bronze cauldrons or items made with precious medals. These large pots were also used as vessels containing gifts to the gods such as incense, sacrificial offerings or liquid potions.

A fascinating collection of artifacts tell the story of the Olympic Games and explains how this location was also an important religious site for the athletes. These were some of my favorites:

Bronze Griffins

Terra Cotta Medusa

Shield Device with Representation of Phobos

Statue with Intricate Detail of Uniform

What interested me about Olympia was that the area was not only a stadium, arena and training center but also the religious sites and housing for the athletes and their families. This is only a small fraction of the delicate items that are displayed at the archaeological museum and is well worth the time to explore.

Have you had the opportunity to visit the Olympia Archaeological Museum? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many Thanks and Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

The Archaeological Museum of Olympia
Archea Olimpia 270, 65
Greece
Telephone: +30 2624 022742

Admission Fee: 12 Euros from April to October and 6 Euros from November to March.
Hours: Open from April 1 to October 31. From November 1 to March 31 from 8AM to 3PM.
Scenic View: Beautiful views of the ancient ruins of Olympia and view of Knossos Hill
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Arrive early in the day as tours come in during the afternoon. Wear comfortable shoes for walking, bring bottled water and snacks as there are no options available until you enter the Archaeological Museum.

Where to Stay:

Bacchus
Arhaia Pissa 10,
Archea Olimpia , 270, 65
Greece
Telephone: +30 2624 022298

Where to Eat:

Bacchus Tavern
Arhaia Pissa 10,
Archea Olimpia , 270, 65
Greece
Telephone: +30 2624 022298

I ordered a mix of appetizers which included the Dolmadakia (grape leaves stuffed with rice), Tyropitakia (feta cheese wrapped in a puff pastry) and the Rolakia (smoked bacon and cheese wrapped in puff pastry) and a bottle of Malagousia Assyrtiko wine, locally produced in Olympia.

What to Eat:

Baklava is layers of phyllo dough filled with nuts, spices and sweetened with honey
Greek Salad
Greek Wine from Santorini is unique as the grapes are grown in volcanic ash
Gyros
Lamb
Local Olives
Mashed Fava Beans (Fava me Koukia)
Moussaka is an eggplant or potato based pie with meat and cheese
Pomegranates
Saganaki is a phyllo pastry stuffed with cheese and covered in honey
Souvlaki are meat kabobs made from lamb, beef or chicken
Spanikopita is a phyllo pastry filled with spinach, cheese, and sometimes onion
Tomato Fritters made with tomatoes and onion, they are spiced either with oregano and peppermint then deep-fried
Tzatziki is a yogurt based sauce with bits of garlic, onion, cucumbers, olive oil and lemon. Pita bread is usually served with this dish for dipping.

What to Read:

Mythos by Stephen Fry
The Olympic Games in Ancient Greece by NicolaosYalouris
Ancient Greek Athletes by Stephen G Miller