We were treated to a beautiful sunrise but "red sky in morning, sailors's warning" on our way to the bus it started to spit and almost felt like rain. Once on the bus, sitting upstairs, the umbrella lady from yesterday tried to sell Helen a proper rain umbrella. Thanks but no thanks! Thankfully the rain didn't last and the day dried soon after.
Following the same route into the city (marinas, sex clubs, ruins etc) we saw the city in a new light. So we all know there are ancient ruins all over Athens but there are also modern ruins. Probably a combination of the Greek economy, and riots last year. Walking different routes through the city there are many buildings which are burnt out shells, and graffiti everywhere we looked! In the worst area we even saw a Police riot truck with armed police outside, inside was full of riot gear. Presumably a preventative measure. So clearly Athens' troubles are not behind it yet.
We walked for miles, following our bus route, with no buses to be seen. When we did see some, they are full. Knowing we needed to be back at port by 4pm, and with four cruise ships in port, we left the city by 2pm leaving us ample time. A good strategy and gave extra swimming pool time to cool off.
We sailed out of port directly behind the Ryndam and headed towards Santorini, one of the expected highlights of this trip.
All in all, Athens was a fun and interesting place, and certainly a visible mix of past and recent history.
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