December 30, 2023 – February 4, 2024
The First Full Day
Greece greeted me with a range of sights, from the ancient House of Proclus to the Roman Agora’s ruins. Yet, it was the still-roofed Temple of Hephaestus that stole the show, surviving the test of time in defiance. Muse Hill wrapped up the day, its view so captivating it was a great pacesetter.
Acropolis Adventures and Gyro Encounters
Exploring the Acropolis was surreal, with history coming alive, narrated by a local guide whose passion was as evident as the ruins around us. I learned of the ancient Greeks’ inclusive spirit at the Theater of Dionysus, a style still used today. Food-wise, I ordered a fish served whole for lunch—I won’t be doing that again!
New Year’s Reflections
The New Year’s scavenger hunt was a blast, my competitive spirit is ready for the next round in Rome. The day after was a little rough, thanks to New Year’s Eve celebrations. The fireworks the night before, though, were absolutely worth it. They surrounded the acropolis and the city.
Philosophical Musings
Diving into the lives of Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, and Alexander the Great was like a live-action history class. Their era of peace and curiosity set the stage for our own. A visit to the Temple of Zeus left me wishing I could’ve seen it in its prime—modern destruction of ancient wonders is a tough pill to swallow.
Informal Insights and Athenian Eats
Chatting with embassy officials gave me a taste of real talk about global issues—a refreshing change from textbook theories. As for the food, it’s been a ride—from an excellent chicken gyro away from the tourist traps to free left-over sandwiches.
Tech Talks and Marina Walks
Visiting a Greek tech company was right up my alley as an MIS major. I took in a new point of view of leadership as well. The marina, with its lineup of luxury yachts, made for a stunning stroll. It’s funny how the further you wander from tourist spots, the more authentic—and affordable—the experiences become.
Closing Thoughts
From thought-provoking discussions at Plato’s Academy to the live music at Greece’s oldest tavern, this trip so far was a tapestry of moments that taught me as much about life as it did about history and culture. And while I’m off to Italy next, I know a piece of my heart will always stay in the land where philosophy was born, and where the simplest meals often told the richest stories.
