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That’s “HELLO” in Greek!

I told Mum I wanted to see the Parthenon and since Athens is on our way home from Cyprus, why not?

It was a short flight from Lanarka to Athens. It definitely felt a lot hotter. Our lovely driver asked if I would drink some water off the palm of his hand. We continued to experience the love of these Mediterranean folks!

We arrived at A77 Suites by Andronis, a boutique luxury hotel in a 19th century listed neoclassical building located at the most emblematic district of Athens city. It is tucked away along a quiet pedestrian street, in the ancient heart of the city, just moments from the cosmopolitan buzz of Plaka.

The “lobby” is the stylish A77 Boutique on Adrianou Street. It showcases Greece’s new generation of designers alongside established luxury brands 

And the hotel staff were right there to greet us!

There are twelve fashionable yet homely suites above the shop. We were lucky to get one of them – we had the La Petite Suite. Next time Mum wants the one on the top floor with a view of the Parthenon!

Once we were settled and had some room service lunch, we went on our mission to find a view of the Parthenon. As it was already 30 degrees centigrade, Mum didn’t think it would be a good idea for me, a little black dog to be out in the heat. Instead, we found a rooftop bar – Anglais Athens where Mum could have a cappuccino and a view.

On the way back to our hotel, we came across more archaeological sites and churches …

We walked around the labyrinthine streets of Plaka.

And there’s something about the doors that we liked …

And it seems like the cats here also rule! These two just sat on the pavement, not moving at all. London cats would run away as soon as they see a dog. I was actually nervous walking past them – Mum carried me – LOL!!! Or maybe it was Mum that was nervous that they would swipe me!

Well, it was definitely the right choice to stop – it also helped to break up the journey for me. And I can add this to the list of countries visited. I am quickly catching up to Darcy’s 26.

May’s comment: In December 2004, after the Olympics in Athens, we visited a spruced up city and took a walk to the Acropolis.

The temperature then was manageable. This time, at the end of May, it was already too hot to be walking around, especially for a little black dog – that’s why we opted to see it from afar.

In the old town were a couple of taller buildings that were amenable to having dogs. Anglais Athens, an all day rooftop cafe-bar and restaurant on the 6th floor with amazing view was happy to have us.

We loved our discovery of A77Suites by Andronis – a fabulous find. They only accept ESA and Guide Dogs and we were allowed to stay as George is certified as an ESA. But that doesn’t work for any of the European flights. We pay for our travels.