While spending time on Naxos and Koufonisia for some much needed downtime on my own, I had plenty of moments to simply sit, breathe and watch the waves roll in. And when you give yourself space like that, thoughts start to settle. Every single day teaches you something new, but especially when you actually have the time to reflect. Here is what I came up with. Yours, Pollybert
1.) The train from Athens airport leaves always at 07 past every hour. Alternatively, the metro runs every thirty minutes, departing at 22 and 52. Naturally, I only properly registered this after missing the train by eight minutes. The travel time to Piraeus is roughly the same, about an hour either way. A lesson learned the practical way.
2.) No matter how often I have travelled to Greece in recent years, there is always more to discover. Another island, another beach, another tiny village waiting to be explored. One day I really should look up how many islands there are in total and whether it is even remotely possible to see them all in a lifetime.
3.) Travelling to Greece on my own was wonderful, but it reminded me that it is even more fun with friends. Greek food is meant to be shared. Ordering multiple dishes, tasting a bit of everything, passing plates across the table. That part is admittedly harder when you are sitting there alone.
4.) This was the second time I travelled solo for ten days to Greece. The first time happened by chance, the second entirely by choice. Ten days turns out to be the perfect length for a beach holiday. Long enough to unwind properly and make your feel totally relaxed.
5.) For the first time ever, I brought a proper suitcase instead of my usual travel bag to Greece. I am not entirely sure why I never did before. Perhaps I simply never owned the right size for a one week vacation. It turned out to be a complete game changer. I could shop without hesitation and still get everything home without struggling under the weight and needing help to carry my luggage.
6.) Being sick on holiday sucks. Still, there is something about being in the sun and having the sea nearby that makes you feel better, or at least convinces you that you are getting better faster. I am not entirely sure if there is any science behind it, but I am happy to hold on to my beliefs.
7.) Taking the ferry is a very relaxed way to start your holiday, but not everyone is up for a five hour trip on a boat. You need to come prepared though with snacks and reading material which makes the whole ride so much more special.
8.) You can’t go wrong with Greece on your travel list, no matter where you go.
