Greece

July 30 - August 20, 2009

An incredible, unbelievable adventure through the Cyclades.

Santorini. Only the start of Vespas! An archipelago of volcanic islands. Black sand beaches in Perissa. Burning my feet on small pebbles trying to reach the water. Sharing the small passageways in Fira with donkeys. Discovering the heightened colors of Ia. Mud baths for the skin. Tasting local wine at the vineyards. An introduction to a culture I've often wondered most about.

Milos. They say Milos is for lovers. But they also say all couples visiting Milos end shortly after. Sailing around the island on a pristine, beautiful catamaran. Discovering the untouched coves of the island. Snorkeling around rusted ships just beyond the smooth white rock formations. Taking in the spectrum of creatures living under the Aegean. Having faith. Enjoying Greek mass with typical, black-clothed women. Sharing ouzo afterwards. Overlooking the harbor lights.

Naxos. A meeting place of unforeseen, genuine friendship. A sandy beach only a step from the balcony. Wind and kite surfers' paradise. Rock climbing for a better photo op. Fresh caught octupi on strings outside restaurants. Greek wine beginnings followed by dancing to all the Greek hits. Discovery of THE unique, metal working artist.

Amorgos. Lengthy ferry adventure full of French campers anticipating the site of The Big Blue. Arriving into Katapola. Watching the best sunset and scenery on the ride to Aigiali, the smaller port. Seven males in a house with the best sunset-watching balcony in Greece was our home. Watching the meteor shower on the beach. Touring the tiny monastery overlooking the breathtaking cove, Agia Anna. Located just around the bend from tiny, charming Chora. Taking the path to a more secluded, rocky cove. Swimming in the crisp, clear water. Becoming family with the ones you only just met. The end of the Raki bottle went into my glass. Meaning I will have a great marriage. The whole restaurant cheered! Celebrating into the night, into the morning, until my ferry left. The island stole my heart.

Tinos. The winds picked up. Not a fun ferry ride. Walking without being blown over was difficult. Riding on the back of a vespa was the best solution. Finding the best fig trees for picking the ripened fruit. Women on their knees crawling 800 meters to the Panagia Evangelistria at the top of the hill. Virgin Mary. Marble artists flock to the island. Their works grasping everyone's eyes. Sharing my final night with Greek loves.

You can’t count on your ferry to arrive on time. Or even come at all. You can’t count on quick service. You can't count on the internet. Or phones. But you can find the freshest seafood. Cheese. Tomatoes. Peaches. Nectarines. Watermelon. Figs. The nicest, most generous people EVER. Endless flow of Raki and Ouzo. Continuous, incredible hospitality. Lax minds and lifestyle. Refreshing, salty water. Remarkable sunsets. And sunrises. The best scooter adventures. Unparalleled architecture. Discovery of the undiscovered. Faith. And love.