MYKONOS - DELOS
Monday, September 29th, Mykonos (Greece)
An earlier morning yet. Gathered at 7:30 in the Princess Theater, then boarded the ferry for the “Delos - Birthplace of Apollo” tour.
Considered the third most important archaelogical site in all Greece, we were surprised but thrilled to be able to walk right through the remains of ancient houses, shops, and temples. We were awed by totally intact mosaic floors, multi-storied homes with parts of the staircase still standing, and what was an incredible water system for the time.
Had a great tour guide, who shared many interesting tidbits. One was the fact that since the island supposedly belonged to the gods, only the rich, young, and healthy had been allowed to live there.
Saw the Naxos lions, but were rushed through photographing them. “Herded” back onto the ferry by a very impatient guide (not ours), we cruised across the harbor and back to the ship.
After a buffet lunch onboard ship, we bought tickets and rode the shuttle to the “Yacht Club”. A short walk took us into town, where a gathering crowd alerted us to the presence of the island’s famous pelicans. After watching one go after a female tourist, we moved on to find the bus to Paradise. The beach. Ran into Rusty, the ship’s port lecturer, who Darrell and Jo had breakfasted with. Given the time of day, he advised us against a trip to Paradise, recommending both taxi service and a closer beach.
Wandered the streets looking for the taxi stand, or a lone taxi, but never found. The streets were a maze. Intentionally designed so as a means of defense, we unanimously agreed it was effective. After we ended up back where we had started, we decided to blow off the beach. Opting instead for a charming waterfront café, we shared a couple bottles of what Lisa termed “highly drinkable” wine, a different version of baked feta, and a blue-style cheese spread that, from the look on Terri’s face, was clearly not her cup of tea. Team player that she is, however, she took a second bite so Alan could get a picture.
Decided to walk to Little Venice and asked our waitress, Nikki, if we should follow the water, which while a longer route would provide less risk of getting lost, or brave the maze of city streets. Following her recommendation to stroll the streets, we happened upon a little path that took us down some hidden steps and right onto the rocks. There we had a great view of the windmills and a fantastic photo op. To Tom’s delight we also stumbled upon one of the pelicans. His first attempt to approach it was a success. His second was not.
Finally wandered into Little Venice where we sat a while and enjoyed the view. Dipped our feet into the Aegean for the first time. As it was rocky, Alan wore Lisa’s flip flops. He looked like a ballerina.
Starting to get worried about the time, we hurried back to the shuttle and returned to the ship. Once onboard everyone parted ways. Jo and Darrell hit the hot tub and a couple buckets of beer. Made more friends.
Had reservations for dinner at Sterling Steakhouse, one of the ship’s speciality dining options. The Bernards had lamb; everyone else had filets.
MJ made it an early night. Everyone else opted for Motown and enjoyed the “Motor City” show in the Vista Lounge.
Windmills | ||
Petros the Pelican | ||
Little Venice | ||
Streets of Chora | ||
Terrace of the Lions - 600 BC | ||
Mosaic Floors of Delos | ||
Streets of Delos | ||
House of Dionysus | ||
Last Updated: 01/15/2010