Today's title has two meanings - one great and the other, not so much!!

First off, Tom and I are on our last leg of our month long trip to Greece.   We did our tours in the Peloponnese and Central Mainland for 3 weeks, saving Athens for when we were a bit more acclimatized to the country, the language and the driving directions.  Well, our intentions were great.  We're really glad we did out in the country part first, exploring the ancient ruins, monasteries, tiny mountain villages, meeting local people and being welcomed into their homes, and introduced to some of their customs.

But, good intentions put aside, nothing could have prepared us for driving in Athens!!  We had no intention of ever bringing our car here, but thought we would drive straight to our apartment, park the car and never move it again for 3 days.  That didn't happen!

The thing about driving in Greece is that first off, there are hardly any English signs.  We were told that a few English signs were put up when the Olympics were here in 2004.  Secondly, if there is an English sign, it's the second one after the Greek, and it's right at the corner where we have to turn.  Thirdly, there's always a car or moped right up our tail, honking if we slow down to look for signs.  And last, but not least, there may be a sign to the airport for example, and there may be a second sign with a plane on it, but that's it.  They drop you.  There's no more signs and we're left wandering around the city.  

Needless to say, Tom and I found ourselves right downtown Athens, no cellphone, no GPS.  Right in front of the Acropolis there's a 4-lane highway coming into a 4-lane roundabout.  That wasn't pretty, but we managed to muddle our way through downtown Athens.  

Then, after stopping at a gas station, a Taxi Factory (whatever that is?!) and a nice young man with a cellphone to ask the way, we found the subdivision New Patisia where we're supposed be.  That's the great thing about Greek people.  Their road signs may be lacking, but the people are amazing, so friendly and helpful.  

We are parked here for the next 3 days and are looking forward to exploring the ancient sites of Athens.  No pictures tonight, as we spent the day watching for traffic and road signs (and barely talking to each other).  Driving in central Athens sure can put a strain on one's relationship!