Athens

The fourth stop has brought us to Athens, the Greek capital. Strictly speaking we are alongside at Piraeus, a port city bordering Athens – about a half-hour drive from the centre of one to the other.

The weather is hot (about 30 degrees) and fine. There is a bit of smog, however.

We've just returned from an excursion to the Acropolis, the Acropolis museum and some shopping in the old town. Like yesterday, the pictures tell the story:

Athens is a likeable place. We stopped for lunch at an outdoor restaurant for a salad and souvlaki – it was good just to be able to stop for a moment and take in the activity around us.

There is no doubt it is a huge city, but the streets are lined with trees that give it a relaxed feel. Traffic is lively, but not as crazy as Italy. The locals we've encountered are friendly and helpful. That said, the impact of the GFC can be seen – but the dilapidation is not as extreme not as what we've witnessed in Katakolon or Santorini.

We are now taking the afternoon off. May as well as have a siesta like our Greek and Italian counterparts. Tomorrow takes us north to the island of Corfu.

To both our Mums a belated happy birthday.