Mykonos Town

                                                 Harbor front, Mykonos Town

Before 6:00 am, the taxi service called to tell us they were in front of our Athens apartment. We breathed a sigh of relief because now we were two for two regarding taxis being on time. This one would take us to the Pireus, Athens's main port. We made it to the Blue Star Ferries ticket office,  picked up our tickets, and were soon ensconced in our "airseat lounge" awaiting departure for the 5-hour journey to Mykonos.

On the ferry, Judy achieved celebrity status. While exploring the different levels and crannies of the ship, she ran onto a group of Chinese ladies. Somehow, they determined she was an American and everyone wanted their photo taken with her. So, one at a time, the ladies rushed to Judy's side, she put her arm around their shoulder and voila! a picture with Judy. She later said, "This must have been my 15 minutes of fame!"

After settling in at our Mykonos hotel, the Semeli, we grabbed our maps and umbrellas and set off down the maze of narrow stone streets, lined with shops and eateries. "Maze" is the appropriate word here. This twisted warren of narrow pathways was built centuries ago to protect the Greeks from invaders. It worked then and is still working as lost tourists get turned around, look at our maps, shrug, and trudge on. Street names are non-existent. Why? The Greeks know where they are going. 

Adding to a newcomer's confusion is the very beautiful bright white color of all the buildings. They vary only by blue, green, red, or grey trim and doors.

As we meander through the streets, we hear many languages and the roar of motor scooters and tiny autos/trucks. The smells of fresh white paint, cigarette and exhaust pollution, baked goods, and meat cooked on a spit permeate the air.

                                   Painters prepare for the summer tourist crush

We're really enjoying the authentic Greek food here. Most of the small restaurants and cafes are family owned. They are accommodating and easily become like friends. Last night an enthusiastic server waved us in and urged us to have a seat at his outdoor tables. Before we knew it, we were eating some delicious lamb kebabs and gyros. 

As we passed the same way this morning, the owner stopped to chat with us. He put his hand on Annis's cheek then held his arm next to hers. "I like your color," he said, "like mine -- chocolate!" Then he waved to Lefteris, our server from yesterday and ordered us a coffee on the house. It was a lovely and friendly gesture, but Greek coffee is an acquired taste. Annis tried a cold version. Judy tried it hot. We both added sugar, which we never do at home. 

Mykonos is known as the island of winds. We took a long hike and discovered the old-fashioned windmills at the top of town. 

Laura, from Germany, and Lauren, from Texas took a photo of us

We made our way, exploring some of the beach areas on the outskirts of Old Town and enjoying the variety of views of Mykonos.

                                                    

Chapel near the Mykonos Town pier

We've had a great day in Mykonos and look forward to tomorrow's excursion to the nearby island of Delos.