Well hello to you my reader chums! The Monday just gone, I embarked on a solo trip to Athens in Greece for a few days, to visit my family. Travelling has become an obsession of mine, I love nothing more than planning the next adventure, booking flights and heading away, delving into a new culture. This time was a bit different, I usually travel with my friends however I had to fly on my own, something that made me extremely anxious. I'm proud to say, I did it, anxious Della managed to travel to Athens and back, enjoying quality time with her aunt and cousins, a statement I'd never thought I would make.
On Monday, I arrived at Gatwick around 4am, ready for my early 6am flight. As I was only bringing hand luggage, I went straight through security, bought a Pret breakfast and chilled until my gate number was called. I then hopped on the plane and was up in the air before I knew it. Being so early in the morning, sleep took over and I tried to get a few hours in before arriving in Athens around 11.45am Greek time.
For the first day, it was incredibly chilled, taking a drive around the area with my aunt, cousins and spending that special time, catching up over a glass of wine.
Tuesday, my aunt and I hopped on the train, travelling down to main city centre of Athens. I hadn't been here in a few years since visiting last when I was about 13 years old! We had a browse around the flea market area, buying gifts for friends, family, admiring the sites and absorbing the heart-warming ambience.
Taking a break, we stopped off for a beverage and I opted for fresh pomegranate juice! It was the most incredible juice I've tasted, a hundred times better to what we get in the UK. Usually pomegranate is bitter to me, but the fresh kind was sweet and refreshing, I loved it.
Nearby to the Acropolis which you can see in the distance was the Library of Hadrian's remains. We took a gander around, soaking up the historic evidence that lay beneath us. Surrounded by colourful houses and blooming plants, the contrast of time is impeccable to experience.
Time for an ice cream pitstop! I chose a blend of my favourite flavours Nutella and Stracciatella with a drizzle of more Nutella on the top; dessert heaven at its finest.
Next to the flea market and bustling shops sits the famous Monastiraki Square, known for one of Athen's largest monasteries. Now, however most of the monastery is demolished, aside from the small church still standing. I love visiting churches so we took a little look inside, lighting a candle for our loved ones.
The city centre of Athens is stunning with tucked away restaurants, cafes, shops and market sellers at every turn. It's a welcoming location filled with historical significance, colourful buildings and budding nature; a place suited for every walk of life. I'd happily go back over and over again!
Sunset views from the village.
One of the days, my cousin and I headed to a shopping mall buying a few sneaky treats in Sephora then took a browse around one of the nearby towns. Every corner is designed with so much character; cute lampposts, detailed tiling and sensational architecture, never fails to amaze me.
The weather was very spring like on my trip, so on Thursday my aunt and I took a trip down to the nearby beach area, Kalamos, Attica. There's no place I love better than the beach, growing up with the seaside on my doorstep. Kalamos, holds so much beauty; the rippling clear waters, pebbly beach and charismatic harbour, nestled by the mountainous lands that lay ahead was enough to blow me away. The best way to describe it is by peacefulness of the entire location. We took a walk around then stopped for a hot drink, enjoying a good old fashioned natter.
The trip as a whole was a truly relaxing and eye opening break away. I stepped out my comfort zone, conquering many of my fears travelling alone, spent some quality time with my family and witnessed many beautiful sights. I wish I could go back right now!
I hope you enjoyed this little insight into my trip to Athens. Have you ever visited?
