Thursday, October 4, 2012

Along the Aegean Sea

What day am I on for this trip?
Day 16
In Santorini right now. Time really stops here. One can stare at the sea for hours.
The past few days have been full of discovery.... I know that sounds cheesy. But what I mean is, Athens and Santorini are full of little paths that lead to a spectacular view of the sea and mountains, not to mention an archaeological site dating back to 5th century bc.

Best moments:
Best Moment #1
 The Areopagus rock, it vol.2, p.246, Acts 17:19,20
I could not find this place the first time I went to the Parthenon, but I went after the meeting on Sunday. Because the shorter path was closed, I hiked uphill, taking a strenuous, roundabout route. Getting to the top was really an unforgettable experience; I was sunburned with achy legs and in a full-length dress not exactly suited for such a hike (it would have been too much time to go to hotel). But the idea that Paul set foot on the same rock to teach, and that we are doing exactly what he did by preaching God's kingdom gave me a profound sense of fulfillment. To top off the experience, I asked a Chinese girl to take my picture, and passed her a Paradise tract, which she gratefully accepted.
Areopagus Rock

Plaque in Greek describing the account of Acts 17

Best Moment #2
Watching the Aegean sea while onboard the star ferry
I have never experienced anything quite as beautiful as the dark blue, clear waters of the Aegean Sea. 
Approaching Santorini from Athens by ferry was just wonderful....being surrounded by the sea really gives one a sense of deep peace and contentment.
It was a blessing to be on the sea, thanks to Jehovah and to my generous mother. I was getting a bit tired of the concrete jungle of Buenos Aires.




Best Moment #3
The bus ticket counter
After arriving to the main bus terminal on Santorini island, we had to catch another bus to our hotel. We were looking for here to buy tickets and found this place.
 
We counted that the "tickets on the bus" sign was posted 9 times on this small space...hahaha...obviously the locals were tired of answering the same questions over and over again, especially on where to buy tickets.



Best moment #4
Hiking from Fira to Imerovigli
On TripAdvisor,  Santorini is described as a hiker's paradise.
And it really is!
I have never enjoyed hiking so much as I have enjoyed it here...especially when you are rewarded with unforgettable views. My mom and I hiked leisurely for about 2 hours, and then boarded a bus to Oia to view the famous sunset. It was a perfect day!

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