Goodbye Greece

We loved the isle of Hydra so much that we decided to stay an extra night. We couldn't get enough of the beaches, quiet, and cats. Well, some of us liked the cats anyhow. So many cats to be petted, so few arms.





Warm days.




Warm nights too. Looking from the balcony of our apartment towards the hub of activity, the port.



The real reason that we stayed another night is that we wanted to eat at a little restaurant that we had read about in a guide book. It is a signless, nameless little place that's run out of an old Greek couple's kitchen. Look for the lime green door across from the row of blue flowerpots. It has been around for years and survives by word-of-mouth, reputation, and mention in a couple of popular guide books. You have to make a reservation by 10:00 AM or they can't pick up the items they need from the market. We were unable to get a reservation the morning before, but the couple invited Jolene and Noelle into their house, gave them cookies and grappa, kissed Noelle on the cheeks a few times, and made Jolene promise to come visit them the next time we were in Greece. The hook was set and Jolene informed me that we were staying the next night so we could eat there. Clever marketing, the cynic in me claimed. I was wrong as the meal and experience did not disappoint. We were the only ones there and had a great conversation and wonderful Greek food. It was like visiting your Greek grandparents' house.




We reluctantly said goodbye to the island and hoped that Dagobert would be waiting for us, unharmed. We were a little apprehensive about leaving him unattended in the town square but all was in order when we returned. We hit the roads and headed for the port town of Patra, just in time to take the evening ferry back to Italy.

We found Greece to be a wonderful country. It's a harsh, rocky country with terrible traffic, unfinished roads and houses, and a world of economic challenges. The people were the most friendly and welcoming of the trip and the food was our favorite so far.