Day 16 Athens to Toronto

September 14, 2023

We were up early. The bustle at the port was in full swing, ferries unloading and loading. The sunrise was beautiful. 

Air Canada advised us to get to the airport four hours early, so we took the 9 o’clock hotel shuttle for our one o’clock flight. We thought getting there early was a good idea since the last time we were in Athens in 2019 the lineups were horrendous. Not this time. We were checked in and through security in twenty minutes. I bought a bottle of Seven Star Metaxa at the duty free then off to our gate. We scored a table next to our gate so that we could play some scrabble while we waited. 

We moved to our gate and were surprised at how many people were in wheelchairs. We stopped counting at forty and then more arrived. 10% of the passengers in wheel chairs, wow!It delayed boarding, along with a baggage loading issue. We left the gate at two and took off at 2:20 (scheduled for 1:10). I took some pictures as I marvelled at how spread out Athens is. I didn’t see any skyscrapers or tall condos like Toronto. Probably because it is in an earthquake zone. I’ll have to see what the population is.

Our meal was probably the best we’ve had on a plane. The caterers out of Athens delivered delicious, fresh, plentiful meals. First we had wine service and then a refill. I had a Henry of Pelham Riesling, excellent. Jill had the Italian Soave, also excellent. Jill mentioned that we were celebrating our 50th anniversary and they brought us two glasses of champagne and congratulations from many crew members and also passengers, so thoughtful. We had chicken gyro with roasted potatoes and baked tomato. It was delicious. The salad was arugula and cherry tomato with an olive oil balsamic dressing, so good. The Greeks know how to make simple but delicious food. It didn’t compare to the catering out of Toronto. 

Since we flew with daylight the whole way home, I couldn’t resist taking pictures of the clouds we never see unless we fly. Clouds and rocks intrigue me ;) Our route took us over the mountains of northern Italy, northern France, over a bit of Whales, then Ireland, before the Atlantic Ocean.

Now for the review. Our unanimous choice for the best island is Koufonissi. Beautiful light sand beaches with azure blue water. Number two was Syros for its architecture, challenging climbs and our outstanding accommodations. Number three was the northern port of Aegiali in Amorgos. A great walking beach and great views from our top floor accommodations. Our accommodations in Rafina gets special mention as it was a great way to end our Greek Odyssey. And a special mention to Air Canada, which was awesome in so many ways and Red Car which transported us to and from the airport.

Until we travel again, cheers!