Israel to Greece

September 28, 2023 

We left our hotel in Tiberius, Israel at 1:20 AM to arrive on time in Tel Aviv airport for our 7 AM flight to Athens, Greece.  The flight was on time and took about four hours to reach Greece.  As we flew, it was interesting to see the Greek Islands from the air.  When we arrived at the Greek airport, we were met by a guide from Proximo (our tour agency) who led us through baggage claim area to buses waiting outside.  As we travel to the downtown of the Athens, we drove on expressways that reminded me of how Chicago has connections from airport to downtown.  There was even an "L" train running down the middle of the highway.  

Greek Flag 

Entering Downtown Athens

"L" train in Athens

Greek Parliament Building

Athens spread among valleys

The City of Athens is spread out among many hills.  It reminded me of Los Angeles.

Most of the buildings are only several stories.  There are not skyscrapers to avoid blocking a view of the Parthenon and Acropolis.  We pass by the Greek Parliament Building and saw the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.  (Greek Independence 1820)  

 

First Stop in Athens

We are dropped off downtown and brought into an office building where we find a Catholic Chapel of St Joseph.  Our group celebrates the Mass.  Next we go to our Hotel.  It is a modern building with newer finishes.  It is called the Athens Avenue Hotel.  Now we have time to get out for lunch.  We go to a nearby restaurant called "Ciao Italiano".  It has lovely sidewalk tables.  We had big Greek Salads which were entirely satisfying!  Next we hit the ATM for some Euros.  Then it was time for a nap before dinner.  Remember we got up very early in Israel to start this day.