Greece – The Cradle of Western Civilization

Greece, a place that I have wanted to experience my entire life. The glorious ruins of Ancient Greece, the bustling city life of Athens, the towering majesty of the peaks of the Metéora, and the serene beauty of the island of Santorini, Greece is a country that enchants your entire being and never lets go. Having arrived in Athens on the eve of Greek Easter, the processions of candlelights in the night is an experience too spellbinding to put into words. 

While doing a walking tour of Athens with the extremely knowledgeable local guide George, the discussion touched on the economic crisis that is constantly making headlines all over the world. “The government,” he says, “they must do more. They are the ones who screwed up.” That seems to be the general consensus in the population. Yet regardless of the hardships that everyday Greek people confront, it is amazing to see the joyful exuberance on display on Easter, where the families come out for celebration and lots and lots of roasted lamb. Despite tough times, there is a strong sense of optimism and hope, and with that firmly entrenched in the national spirit, there is no hardship the Greeks cannot overcome.