Itisallgreek2me

Sunrise viewed from my window, Leonidas Hotel, Gythio

Arose this morning at 0600 hours after what was for me, one of my better night’s of sleep.  Many of you will know that sleep is something which for me does not come easy – I wish I knew why.  Opened the shutters to await the sunrise which came at exactly 0630 hours – up over the mountains and glistening across the sea, magical.  I had gone downstairs to the lounge at 0600 hours and again at 0700 hours, only to find the Net wasn’t connected and the stupid idiot (two adjectives I’ve become fond of using to describe situations and/or persons) who was supposed to be manning the Reception, lying on a lounge, snoring his head off – still there when I went out at 0800 hours. 

Another day in Paradise had dawned – set off to walk to Lakonikas Bay where I had read there was a long sandy beach, the rusted hulk of a ship and that it was home to Caretta Caretta Loggerhead Sea Turtles – both adult and nests.  Even went prepared for my first swim. 

I know I went on about this yesterday – the subject of rubbish on the streets.  Could not believe my eyes with the pile I came across within the town boundary – if nothing else, it must be a health hazard.  Is this how it always is or are the rubbish truck drivers on strike?  Ironically there are signs posted all over town which translate to It Is Forbidden To Drop Rubbish In The Street.  Hopefully these will be my last words on the subject. 

Removed my walking shoes and socks at the first sandy beach I came to – the water was refreshingly cool.  Reached Lakonikas Bay after some one and a half hours of walking – yes, a long sandy beach, however, with a rocky foreshore.  I was not brave enough to go right into the water and swim – I am someone who likes to know the depth and I must know my feet can touch the bottom.  Sat and rested on a large rock by the wreck of the ship Dimitris – sadly I saw neither adult Loggerhead Sea Turtles nor nests of their young.   Came across two dwellings nearby occupied by what I can only presume were lifestylers.  Wanted to talk with the people there, however, with a chain across the entrance I decided not to – their privacy, their domain.  From one dwelling drifted the melodic tones of a woman singing. 

The return walk was just as enjoyable, however, I have got to say I am developing a distinct dislike for all motorised forms of transport, except of course when it is necessary.  One sees so much more on foot – you do not know what awaits around the next corner and when there is something to delight you, you can stop and take it all in – by sight, smell or hearing.  

This morning I telephoned the family in Kastelli Kissamos to say I would be arriving there around 2120 hours Thursday evening.  On arrival back in town decided to visit the Ticket Office to be sure of my plans.  Everything is now uncertain – I am told the ferry may not operate, they could be on strike and I won’t know for sure until late on Wednesday.  I do not want to hang around Gythio waiting for next week’s ferry which also may not eventuate so if I cannot go to Crete this week, I believe I will adopt a Plan B – travel elsewhere and leave Crete until sometime later on.  Just as well I have the luxury of freedom and time. 

Ventured out for lunch then realised I was not overly hungry.  Bought a slice of Galopita (milk pie, something like a custard slice) which would satisfy my appetite until tonight – some nice fresh local fish will go down well.  Another good night’s sleep to follow then tomorrow I will be ready for more exploration.

This entry was posted on Monday, May 17th, 2010 at 2:43 pm and is filed under Uncategorized. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.