Day 12, Athens Then Paros

Leaving Athens today, we rode past the US Embassy. When we'd arrived in Athens last Monday, a protest was planned from the US Embassy to the Israeli Embassy. We were warned by the State Department (through their STEP program that I registered with) to stay clear of the area. However, our bus from the airport went right past it. There were about 5 or 6 large black buses parked right in front of the US Embassy so I didn't get to see what it looked like. Today, I did! (Simple pleasures for simple minds.)

Our flight from Athens to Paros was pretty quick, like 20 minutes in the air. 

Funny thing about our plane tickets. We wanted to check our bags vs carrying them on with us because the carry on weight limit was 8 kg (~18 lbs), and neither of our suitcases were that light. If we bought the cheapest ticket, we'd have to pay an extra €15 per bag to check them. But if we bought the next higher tiered ticket, we'd get to check our bags for free, and that higher tiered ticket cost only €11 more than the cheapest one, PLUS it entitled us to go through the express lane at security AND we got to use the airport lounge, with free food and drinks! So we saved €4 each and got a lot more benefits. Sweet!

This is our approach to Paros.

This is the view outside out apartment. There is water in the background that doesn't show up in the photo. 

Such a beautiful tree just spilling over with blossoms!

This was the view from our table at supper tonight. We're staying in the former fishing village of Naousa, located on the north end of the island. We were told after we arrived that it's pretty expensive here. I guess we'll find out.

After supper, as usual, we walked around a bit, trying to get a feel for the town. 

This is what remains of a Venetian castle. We'll have to go back in the daylight so we can see it better.

That's Nick standing there in the castle. And the half moon overhead isn't providing enough light to get a good look at the place.

From our castle to yours, have a blessed evening.

Carol