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Bit of a much needed sleep in this morning, breaky and off we ventured for our trip out to the beach areas.
We walked to Syntagma Square and from there caught a tram (cost EUR1.20 each) out to Glyfada. Took about an hour but was an interesting experience. Once the tram hit the coast was fascinating to see the beachside areas - all ensconced with sun lounges, umbrellas, cabanas etc - only to be enjoyed for a fee! Not much to see at Gylfada itself besides the beach and a rather desolate looking club and restaurant so continued back on tram to Voulas - the end of the line. Decided we weren't going to pay EUR5 each to check out the beach so went back on tram a few stops to an area of upmarket/ designer shops. Walked to the beach area and had a drink but the shopping precinct really gave us an insight into the (failing) Greek economy. Classy looking shops with supposedly big sales - certainly nothing that I could afford or want - with very few people around, many vacant premises and many closed. It all just felt like something was missing ......
The other very noticeable aspect of street scenes in general (not just out in this beach area) was the prevalence of graffiti. It was everywhere. And not particularly in a street art type form - just graffiti on every available possible free surface! Nothing was spared. Such a shame - as really ultimately creates a negative aura. With the prevalence of homeless (and every city has them), beggars and street sellers plus all the graffiti and empty businesses - you can't but acknowledge the struggles of this economy!
After a bite of lunch we caught the tram
back to Syntagma square (didn't seem to take quite as long) and wandered back in the direction of Montasiraki through some markets and shops....all good!
Bit of a rest and refresh till I dragged Raym out again - this time catching the Metro two stops to Evangelismos in preparation for the walk to Mt Lycabettus. The couple of wrong turns didn't assist the climb up the endless number of stairs to the point where the funicular departed but think it was ultimately worth it. The funicular actually ascends through the mountain! Amazing! And the views from the summit were sensational! 360 degrees over an entire massive city! Very windy ( wish I hadn't worn a dress!) but enjoyed a beer watching the sun slowly setting over this unique city and casting its eery glow over the Acropolis. Just beautiful!
Descent was not nearly so strenuous and once back at Montasiraki selected one of the abundance of popular tavernas (it was Saturday night after all !) for dinner. Once again enjoyable but still anxious for a farewell drink on the rooftop of Attalos! Did briefly meet up with our new friends from the previous evening who are about to head off on their Intrepid tour of the Greek Islands - we may meet up in Mykonos!
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