We went in winter, so generally prices were slightly lower... so was the temperature. In winter the temperature drops to around 15 celsius compared to a hot summer of over 30. We were fortunate enough to have perfect weather, cool yet sunny with clear blue skies.
Sights
Acropolis: The number one attraction there. Thats where the parthenon was build. The greek Gods and Goddesses were said to have roamed there. Unfortunately they are in the midst of renovating and reconstructing the place, damaged due to some ancient wars and earthquakes etc.
Temple of Zeus: A rather lonesome structure in the middle of sprawling ruins enclosed by busy traffic. There were supposedly over 100 pillars but now only 13-14 remains. Sad.
Plaka: This cool touristy area full of restaurants and souvenir shops with the view of the Acropolis in a distance. Lovely. We wined (quite cheap) and dined on octopus (very expensive) and 2 other dishes for about 32 euros (64 sing). I rarely get to eat real octopus, apart from the Japanese seasoned ones we get here at most sushi parlors.
Monastrikki: This also rather touristy area full of souvenir shops, restaurants and a rather pricey flea market.
Santorini: This beautiful island boasts one of the most picturesque views in the entire world! The view on the cliff, facing what some call the lost city of Atlantis (sea), is called the Caldera view. Loads of hotels, restaurants, shops, churches and homes are build on the cliff with the characteristic blue and white theme with lovely red/pink flowers giving such sweet vibrance to the place.
There are cats, dogs and even donkeys trudging though the narrow pathways though the cliff. On one end is the very often photographed church and somewhere in the middle is the cable car. We checked out (but did not stay) one of the best places to stay -Porto Fira Suites for 120 euros a night in winter. ( i wont be surprised if they up the price 50% more in summer) we stayed at a comfortable hotel (Golden Star hotel) for 30 euros a night with the view of the inner part of the island.
Chios: Lovely island, a nice stopover on the way to Turkey. We went to a medieval town, Mesra and a quiant little town called Pygi where their houses has handcrafted patterns.
Food
One of the cheapest food in Greece is gyros. Its greasy grilled meat, french fries, tomato and some salad ALL rolled into some pita bread.1.50 euros. Went to greece for mediterranean? be prepared to pay the price. some grilled swordfish will set you back 12 euros!!!!!!!!!
Coffee: Its like Nescafeland over there. One cup of nescafe (instant, they just add hot water to the granules--not the brewed kind) will set you back like 2 euros!!!!!
moussaka: I love it! it has some beef, eggplant bechemel grilled in a oven. lovely.
Drink
Retsina: Its nice white wine, a bit tanninish though.
Raki: its like Sambuca (bonjela (the ulcer gel) flavoured liquer) YUCKS!!!!
Red wine: Very easy to drink, not as full bodied or rich. and very cheap (compared to S'pore)
Beer: Mythos, the local brew...yums
Stay
In Athens we stayed in Diskuoros Guesthouse for 30 euros a night for a room without bathroom, with bkfast. The room was basic and the breakfast was pathetic (just some crummy bread, orange jam and instant nescafe). But the location was fantastic! 5 min away from the Plaka and 10 min walk to the Acropolis. 15 min walk to the nearest metro (Syntagma)
People
Most were able to speak English and we got by just fine. People there are friendly and helpgul but not very warm or hospitable (unlike in Turkey where they are known for their Turkish Hospitality).
Watch out
Port of Pireaus. Its a super huge port, rather disorganised. we were not told which gate our ferry was at, there was no signboard so we had to talk around looking and asking. So just watch out if you are taking a ferry to the islands.
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