We've been in Athens for over a week now, but have only just managed to walk down the few yards from our apartment to get to see the sea. We've both been ill with a bad cold/virus. Ken's been much worse than me, so I went out a few times to get the necessary shopping so that we could function after three months of absence.
On top of that, we've had no internet - don't know what's wrong, and despite daily phone calls to Wind, when every time I was assured that someone would ring us to arrange an appointment, nothing has happened so far. Fortunately we have been able to connect to my sister's internet so we haven't been totally without, but it's very slow. This has been probably harder than the illness itself, a true sign of the times we live in.
Meanwhile, the weather's been going mad. Rain, thunder and lightning greeted us as we arrived. The temperatures have been very low, going down to -2oC: very unusual for Athens. On Tuesday we woke up to dustings of snow on roofs, trees and cars. By Wednesday the temperature was up to 12oC and on Thursday we enjoyed sunshine and temperatures of 16oC. Global warming is here with a vengeance, and yet big financial interests and politicians refuse to heed the warnings.
But, we are both feeling much better now, so life can resume....
I'm delighted that you are both well again now. It would certainly be a stretch for you to visit the Frink exhibition from Athens!
ReplyDeleteYou are away from the depression that is the Brexit situation. I had recovered somewhat over the holidays and then our trip, but after only a couple of days I'm sinking fast again. Are you tempted to stay in Athens?
Thanks, Olga. It feels wonderful being able to go out and do things again.
DeleteThe Brexit situation seems to follow me wherever I go, as I continue to read the Guardian and the Independent on my ipad, wherever I am, but I am glad you managed to avoid it while you were away. It must have been such bliss.
I have never been tempted to return to Greece and live here. I remember thinking 'I am home' very soon after going to the UK to study at University all those years ago. But, I should have my Greek passport renewed as it has expired. It would make travelling to Europe so much easier as Ken and some of my friends keep reminding me. I cannot face the Greek bureaucracy however, and keep putting it off. There is also a small part of me that feels that Brexit might never happen: it's not based on any rational thinking, or political analysis, but I have clung to this feeling ever since the sorry mess started. I keep hoping for a second referendum and a more positive result. If Britain plunges into self-destruct mode, however, I will have to brace the day-long queues outside the passport office in Athens and get a new Greek passport. This will not improve the situation in the UK and that of its citizens, but at least, it will make travelling easier for me.
Oh, I'm with you on wishing it would all just fade into a bad dream. Good luck with the queuing - take a good book.
DeleteToday's the day! This mess can't go on for much longer...
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