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Tag Archives: Greek mythology

Corfu, Greece…the Favorite Vacation Destination for an Empress

8 May 20233 May 2025

D4 Corfu Fort in Old Town

Overlooking the Mandraki Harbor in Corfu, the old fort displayed evidence of Venetian influence with images of winged lions resting on its fortification.

Kerkyra, more commonly known to tourists as Corfu, is located just off the mainland of Greece, between the Adriatic and Ionian Seas.   Corfu Town is a popular port with a strong Venetian influence as exhibited in its architecture.

D4 Restaurants in Corfu Town

Throughout the maze of streets in the Old Town, there were several streetside cafes.

D4 The Liston Restaurant

One of the more interesting areas of Corfu Town was Liston.  Because it had once been occupied by the French, the country’s influence on Corfu was visible in its architecture.  Fashioned after the Rue de Rivoli, it was a replica of one of Paris’ most famous streets.  The French ruled here from 1797 to 1814 (with a brief rule by the Ottoman in between), and then later the British from 1814 to 1864.

D4 Promenade in Old Corfu Town

In the early days when the Venetians ruled Corfu, only the noble and aristocrats were permitted to walk among the arcades.

D4 Entrance to Spyridion, Corfu

Through the alleyways I caught a glimpse of the beautiful flowers cascading from archways and apartment balconies.  D4 Church Spyridion in Corfu Town

The Church of Agios Spyridon was located a few blocks behind the Liston.  Built in the 16th century, it displays ceiling murals designed by Panagiotis Doxaras.

D4 Lit Church candles

I love the Greek tradition of placing candles in the sand outside of the church.

D4 Corfu, famous for kumquats

There are many shops scattered among the streetside restaurants that offer local delicacies.  One of the shops provided samples of kumquats and kumquat liquor.  Kumquats are a fruit that comes from a tree.  They are small, about the size of an olive and resemble the orange in both appearance and taste.

D4 Boats in Corfu Harbor

It was time for us to board the bus headed to the Achilleion Palace.   Sailboats anchored off the scenic coast as we made our way south during our drive.

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The Achillion Palace was built for Empress Elisabeth in 1890 as a second home and retreat from her native Austria.  It was later acquired by German Kaiser William II in 1898 after she was assassinated.  The palace is now a museum displaying the belongings of both the Empress and Kaiser.
D4 Achilles at the Achillion Palace

Throughout the mansion there were statues and paintings of Achilles.  Achilles was a mighty warrior and Greek hero of the Trojan War.   He was killed when a poisoned arrow was shot through his heel, the only vulnerable part of his body.

D4 Statue of Achilles at the Achillion Palace

Another statue on the grounds of the mansion showed Achilles reaching towards his ankle in pain after having been shot.  Today we know the tender area behind our foot as the “Achilles Tendon”.

D4 Palace Painting of Achilles

In keeping with the Achilles theme throughout the mansion, the mural inside titled “The Triumph of Achilles” depicted Achilles’ defeat over Hector during the Trojan War. Achilles was riding a chariot dragging Hector behind._DSC0539

Empress Elisabeth had a tragic life.  A year after the death of her son, she decided to build a summer home on the island of Corfu.  She grew to love the Greek culture and language and the Achillion Palace was her favorite place with its panoramic view of the island.

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Elisabeth’s love of Greek mythology was evident in the entryway of her palace with statues depicting fairies and fauns.

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Once I had completed the tour of the Achillion Palace, I took a moment to have a drink at the Nova Bella Vista, a Mediterranean café.  It was the perfect opportunity to take in the coast.

We had a short bus ride to the town of Paleokastritsa on the east side of the island where we would visit a monastery, have a group lunch and then hang out at the beach if there is enough time.

D4 The Moni Theotokou Monestery

The Monastery of the Virgin Mary, also known as Panagia Paleokastritsa, is of Byzantine origin and was first built in 1228. It was a short uphill climb from the beautiful bay of Paleokastritsa. The current structure was from the 18th century and provided stunning views of the coastline.

D4 Bell Tower in the Monestery

Even today, there are Greek Orthodox Monks who reside here to hold mass and provide assistance to the local residents.  They offer tours of the monastery and grounds and are happy to answer any questions you may have regarding their home.

D4 Cats of the Monesteries

There are several resident cats who will take the time to play with you during your visit to the monastery.  They live here permanently and are cared for by the monks.

D4 Gas Lamps within the Church of the Monestery

As we approached the church, we were reminded that only those dressed appropriately (shoulders and knees must be covered) were permitted to enter.  They also requested that we provide a small monetary donation.

D4 Palaiokastritsa Grottoes

Leaving the village of Lakones towards the bay, I was rewarded with a magnificent view of Paleokastritsa and the fir trees.

D4 Plants framing the Grottoes

The crystal blue waters and rock formations below can be explored by kayak. There is a small beach here for those that have brought the proper attire, but soon we would board the bus to head back to the ship.

D4 Grottoes ready to Explore, Corfu

The bay of Paleokastritsa from the beach was full of craggy rocks. There were several restaurants across the street to enjoy a light lunch and there were a variety of menu items for sale.  I did not want to leave the beautiful blue sky and blue sea, the friendly locals and the relaxed atmosphere.  I can see why this island is perfect for an Empress.

Have you visited the island of Corfu?  Where did you go and what was your favorite activity?  I would be happy to hear about your adventures in Corfu if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my visit and wishing you Many Happy Travels!

D4 Part 2 of the Achilles Painting

…dragging Hector behind…

Have you had the opportunity to visit the island of Corfu?  What was your favorite part of your visit?  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 amazing visit to Corfu and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do: 

Old Venetian Fortress
Corfu, 491 00 Greece

  • Admission Fee:  6 Euros per person and 3 Euros for seniors
  • Hours:  Open daily from 8AM to 8PM
  • Amenities:   restaurant (expensive), restrooms, ice cream and refreshments
  • Scenic Views:  The views of Corfu Town and the Ionian Sea are spectacular from the fort.
  • Length of the Tour:  2 – 3 hours
  • Tips for Your Visit:  The entrance is located in front of the Liston near the Explanade.  The climb to the top to see the lighthouse is steep.  The walking paths are a bit slippery, so wear appropriate walking shoes.  When the cruise ship is in port, the fort can be quite busy and with only one restroom, the lines can be long.  The attraction is not handicap accessible.

Church of Agios Spyridon
Platytyra, Corfu, 49100
Telephone:  +30 26610 39912

  • Admission Fee:  No charge, but a small donation is much appreciated
  • Hours:  Open daily from 7AM to 8PM
  • Length of the Tour:  1 hour
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Wear appropriate dress which requires the shoulders and knees to be covered.

Achilleion (Achillion) Palace
Telephone:  +30 26610 56245

  • Admission Fee:  10 Euros per person
  • Hours:  Open daily from 8AM to 9PM
  • Amenities:   restaurant nearby, audio guides, gardens,  souvenir stalls, restrooms,
  • Scenic Views:  The views of Corfu Town from the gardens is beautiful.
  • Length of the Tour:  2 – 3 hours
  • Tips for Your Visit:   Have your passport/identification ready for renting the audio guide.  When the cruise ship is in port, the palace can be quite busy and they have priority over individual entries, so go early in the day or late afternoon to escape the crowds.

The Monastery of the Blessed Virgin Mary, also known as Panagia Paleokastritsa
Kavos, Greece

  • Admission Fee:  No fee, but be prepared to make a small contribution
  • Hours:  Open daily from 8AM to 9PM
  • Amenities:   restaurant  with stunning oceanside views.  udio guides, gardens,  souvenir stalls, restrooms,
  • Scenic Views:  Beautiful view of the Paleokastritsa up the climb and the restaurant also has amazing views
  • Length of the Tour:  1 – 2 hours
  • Tips for Your Visit:  The walk up the hill to the monastery is quite steep.   Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water if the temperature is warm.  There is a monk available to answer any questions you may have.

Where to Stay:

MarBella Corfu
Agios Ioannis Peristeron
49084 Corfu, Greece
Telephone:  +30 26610 711836

Where to Eat:

Cafe Liston
Kerkiras 10
Kerkiras, 491 00 Greece
Telephone:  +30 2661 045528

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 Rough Magic by Mary Stewart
  • The Raven Witch of Corfu by Effrosyni Moschoudi
  • The Holiday by Erica James
  • Stars of Fortune by Nora Roberts
  • Invincible  Summer by Alice Adams
  • The Venetian House by Mary Nickson

Photo Guide for Corfu, Greece

  • Old Town Corfu (Kerkyra)
  • St. George’s Church in Kerkyra
  • Achilleion Palace
  • Palaiokastritsa and the Monastery
  • The Gorge at Agni Bay
  • Cape Drastis
  • Vlacherna Monastery (near Mouse Island)
  • Canal d’Amour
  • Sunset at Loggas Beach
  • Porto Timoni Beach
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Wandering Walden Pond

22 December 201716 September 2024

Concord is a charming literary village established in 1635.  It is most known as the town that incited the American Revolution with the “shot that was heard round the world.” With its steeped history in combat, Concord’s Walden Pond is the antithesis of war.   A muse of Henry David Thoreau, the lake stands to represent the simple life of the author who spent over two years here living off the land.  Building a cabin close to the lake, Thoreau was drawn to the simple things in life and immersed himself in the surrounding nature.

Strolling the trail that followed the perimeter of the pond, I stopped to enjoy the playful chipmunks and rabbits scurrying along the path and chasing each other among the forest of maples and pine.

I could hear the crunching of dried leaves and the crackling of slender branches beneath me as I explored Thoreau’s solitary refuge. Walden Pond was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1962 and a replica of Henry David’s cabin was reconstructed at a location near the current parking lot of this 335 acre state park and recreation area.

In addition to hiking the pond, visitors can swim, canoe, fish and cross country ski during the winter months.  Walden Pond would soon become a popular vacation destination after Henry David Thoreau’s book was published. This area had previously served as an excursion park in the late 1860s.  Visitors would be able to swim, swing, boat, play baseball, bike and run.  Concession stands, dining halls, bathhouses and a baseball diamond stood on this site until it burned in 1902.

Henry David Thoreau was born in Concord in 1817.  After graduating from Concord Academy, he went on to pursue his education at Harvard.  Interested in ornithology, the study of birds, it is no wonder that Thoreau pursued the natural beauty of Walden Pond.  While he was also interested in Greek mythology and British ballads, he returned to his hometown of Concord to teach school.  Influenced by writers such as Hawthorne, Alcott, Fuller, Thoreau wanted to become a writer as well.  His friendship with Emerson and death of his brother would lead Henry David to Walden Pond to journal about his experience and later publish his famous manuscript.

About a quarter of a way along the hike, there were a series of stones that marked the original site of Thoreau’s one bedroom cabin.  Several quotes from the author are on display as well as a marker which identifies the site of his original home.

Much like many of the other famous writer’s of his time, Thoreau became involved in many political manners and had even helped runaway slaves cross into the border of Canada.  This led Thoreau to write the essay Fit, which brought him international fame.

Prior to Thoreau’s stay at Walden Pond, the Fitchburg Railroad was built to bring hundreds of visitors to the site. I had wandered off of the well-hiked trail to check out the train tracks that seemed to expand endlessly into infinity.  I had expected a train or two to pass by yet there was no activity along the tracks.  I imagined the incoming of visitors loading and unloading in a nearby spot and was disappointed that I did not see a single train.

By the time I had reached the end of the trail, I knew exactly how Thoreau could fall in love with this place.  From the abundance of wildlife to the time of solace, a side trip to Walden Pond was well worth the visit.

Have you visited Walden Pond State Reservation?  Did you experience Thoreau’s love for the area?  I would love to hear about your time at the park if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for checking out my post about Walden Pond and wishing you many Happy Travels!

Disclosure:   Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

What to See and What to Do:

Walden Pond State Reservation
915 Walden Street
Concord, MA  07142
Telephone:  978 369 3254

Where to Stay:

Concord’s Colonial Inn
48 Monument Square
Concord, MA  01742
Telephone:  978 369 9200

Where to Eat:

The Liberty at Concord’s Colonial Inn
48 Monument Square
Concord, MA  01742
Telephone:  978 369 9200

I couldn’t help myself and decided to make it a seafood night.  I started with the clam chowder and then ordered the Lobster Roll which was overloaded with delicious Maine lobster and served with Truffle fries.  There was so much food that I did not have room for dessert, but if I had the chance, I would have ordered the Flourless Chocolate Cake.

What to Eat: 

  • Boston Baked Beans
  • Cape Cod Potato Chips
  • Chop Suey Sandwich at Salem Lowe Restaurant
  • Clam Chowder
  • Fluffernutters – sandwiches made of peanut butter and marshmallow fluff
  • Fried Clams
  • Griddled Blueberry Muffins
  • Hoodsie Cups – cups of vanilla ice cream with a paper lid
  • Lobster Rolls
  • Necco Wafers
  • Roast Beef Sandwiches at Kelly’s Roast Beef

What to Read: 

  • Walden, by Henry David Thoreau
  • Little Women, by Louisa May Alcott
  • The Things We Cannot Say, by Kelly Rimmer
  • In the Heart of the Sea, by Nathaniel Philbrock
  • The Night Thoreau Spent in Jail, by Jerome Lawrence

Browsing the shores of Walden Pond

Cute Lifeguard On Walden Pond

Walden Pond Beach

The forests of Walden Pond

More Glimpses of Walden Pond

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I have had a passion to travel for as long as I can remember and landed my dream job at the age of 19 on a cruise ship. The Suite Life of Travel is about those experiences as well as my future endeavor to explore this amazing world!

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