Hello to all those who are reading! 

Within a few days of our arrival in Athens, CYA led a tour around Pangrati, our neighborhood. They showed us the Lexikopoleio bookstore, where we had to buy our books for Greek class. Since then, we have had fun going back to buy more books and look around the store. 

Another place we often go to is Kekkos, a bakery/coffee shop located just around the corner from our classroom. Many students, also from CYA, frequent this café. It’s a great place to go to in between, before or after classes, and it is nice to get some work done while sitting down to eat or drink. The people who work at Kekkos are very kind and willing to help. Many of us try to practice our Greek there. They give us feedback and free dessert as rewards for our efforts. 

Even with all the help we have received, we’ve had to venture out on our own to get an authentic Athens experience. One of the first places we explored was Syntagma Square. This area is located by the Greek Parliament building and the boundary walls of ancient Athens (as we learned in our art and archeology class). This bustling area is filled with people, shops and various other things. We go to Syntagma Square often because there is always something going on there. This area is also frequented by buskers and canvassers, so we have to exercise a lot of awareness. 

However, these people do not make Athens unsafe or uncomfortable to be in. Athens is a great city to start developing street smarts and basic city skills as most people are willing to talk and help if needed. Syntagma Square’s unique location also affords it more security from the police located around the Parliament. There is also a group of special guards, called Evzones, located outside of the Parliament, guarding the tomb of the unknown soldier. Many tourists stop to watch a special changing of the guard ceremony.

Throughout Athens, the people and street life make the experience great. From the culture of hospitality to the shopping district, each area is filled with different people and values that help to shape Greece. 

I have included some pictures of the things I have described. I hope that you will continue reading!