As humans we all feel most comfortable with “our own people”…..those who are like us, accept us and care for us. In that vein, many women have professed fear and discomfort about traveling alone. I understand that. There are people who would chose to harm us for their own gain. Yet, I choose to believe there are many people with good hearts in this world.
With the latter belief in mind, I chose to undertake a trip to Greece alone.To begin. I did a lot of online research…..hotels.com, airline sites, and ferry hopper.com. were an immense help in selecting safe abodes and methods of travel.
So with an itinerary, addresses, and phone numbers stored in my phone I flew to Athens with only a backpack. Once there, I chanced a learning experience by boarding the subway from the airport to the city center. The train was on schedule and inexpensive compared to other methods of transportation. As a plus my fellow travelers were helpful with information.. It seems that an American woman backpacking in Europe is an anomaly so that many locals have a peaked interest and want to converse.
My first hotel was within walking distance of the Acropolis. I enjoyed the challenging walk up the hill and marveled at both the view and Roman ingenuity. I chatted with strangers and enjoyed a delicious meal while observing the passerbys, I learned that many Greek restaurants frequently end the meal with a free dessert prior to presenting the bill. I even enjoyed a brave little wren that came to check out my delicious dessert.
The Greek ferry system is quite organized. Again, I utilized the subway to the port. With an online ticket I was promptly boarded on the ferry for a smooth sail to Santorini.
Santorini is an island of many abodes carved into the cliffs overlooking the caldera and the Mediterranean. Getting to my quarters was a challenge for both the taxi driver and myself. However, I was amazed and pleased upon arrival to my chosen lodging. My room was quite large compared to U.S. standards. Best of all, there was a balcony overlooking the caldera and shipping lanes. An added luxury was that coffee and breakfast were served on my balcony each morning at a time of my choosing.
My hosts were helpful with information on restaurants, bus tours and archeological sites. The owner’s daughter even brought me a local beer to try, refusing to charge for it.
Olia, the main island town, was as enchanting as adversed with its blue domed roofs overlooking the the sea. It was, however, brimming with tourists.
Mykonos, the island of windmills….was also enchanting. Again, the quarters were fantastic with a balcony overlooking the azure Mediterranean. The property driver befriended me and volunteered a free ride should I become weary after my exploring the island. I found Old Town to be mesmerizing. Its narrow winding streets with myriads of doors, passageways and small shops provided hours of entertainment.
While awaiting the return ferry to Piraeus ( Athens) an American family instigated a conversation about their Athens & Acropolis visit. The wife had fallen resulting in a broken wrist. After x-rays and MRI to rule out a head injury their bill was a mere $18. What a big difference in our American health care system!
On my final day in country an American psychiatrist struck up a conversation while we were awaiting out prospective tour buses. I was going to Delphi and she had another destination. Later I was called by the tour company inquiring if she was a friend. Apparently, she was lost from her tour…..only a psychiatrist!
Delphi, ancient home of the Greek oracle Pythia, was both beautiful and amazing. Nestled among the mountains of central Greece, it is a worthwhile visit, not only for the beauty but for the mythology as well.
In summary, many fellow travelers and tour guides try to connect with solitary travelers. The secret to solo traveling is to do the homework first ,smile, be welcoming and appreciate local customs.
SeniorTraveler 