Trip dates: Jan 25, 2025 - Feb 12, 2025
A memoryAn exploration of Istanbul and Athens
Trip activity
My journey begins
With a flight from Adelaide to Doha and then onto Istanbul
4hr stopover in Doha
And calls with my boys and the lovely Ericka
Arrived safe and sound
Had an issue with my travel sim though which left me getting to the hotel on the metro without internet but I made it π
Lots of mosques and history
Today I walked around the historical centre to learn about the histories of Turks, Romanβs and Ottomans. Was really interesting
Day trip to Bursa started with
A Turkish coffee and a Turkish delight factory. Not sure what Cadbury has been doing all these years; these are amazing
Surprising trip to the snow
I actually didnβt realise the tour would take me to the top of Mount Olympos (not Olympus). Was amazing to be in the snow, more so because it was unexpected
Green Mosque⦠nearly
Nearly caused an international incident apparently as the guard didnβt like the way I took off my shoes?? He stood menacingly in the doorway and I decided I didnβt care much to see another mosque after allβ¦. Was very awkward and weird after a long day on the road
Early start for Gallipoli tour
Exciting to check off a bucket list item π―
Anzac Cove
Meeting a friend & more city exploration
Met up with a friend and we explored the city together. We got over to the "asian side" of Istanbul, but I will need to come back and explore more next time
Back in the airport
Greece here I come!
Athens is very different to Istanbul
But so far I like it π It feels good to be here and exploring Athens. We do have a family connection to Greece through Pop, although on this trip I didn't have time to get to the island of his family.
Itβs great to officially be in Europe
Walking around and experiencing the history is one of my happy places and Athens is just incredible.
Athens at night is spectacular
The way that they light up the monuments and historical buildings is just breath taking...
Athens Observatory
I did this tour for Jaxon and his passion of astronomy and all things space but I enjoyed the tour myself. The history of astronomy was interesting to listen too and witness at this significant site in Athens.
"Free" walking tour was great
The guide was quite the character but it was very enjoyable but dangggg it was warm
Filopappou Hill
A lovely walk through the huge park and explore the various monuments and the spectacular 360 degree views
Food of Greece
Meteora Monasteries and Hermit Caves
Amazing history and views from Meteora. The “Hermits” are monks who chose to live in the caves.
A cool little spot for some work
Acropolis was a must of course
Santorini ππ€¨π’
Unfortunately I was unable to get to Santorini on this trip as planned. Theyβve been having hundreds of earthquakes and when thinking about still going I thought βif it was Ericka and the boys going, would I be happy?β; the answer was obviously no.
I spent a couple of extra days in Athens instead but ended up resting with a sore throat, trying to make sure Iβm feeling good for the retreat.Read more
Ancient cemetery
Last day in Athens so checking out some more Archaeological sites. This cemetery and museum was very cool and just in the middle of the old town area.
Ancient Agora of Athens
Another Archaeological site in the centre of the city. It’s amazing the history that most locals walk past without a second glance!
One night in Artemida
Got to the coast; but itβs cold and miserable. Picked this hotel because they have a shuttle to the airport and the trip from Athens city is stressfully far away for an early flight.
Back to Turkey tomorrow for the retreat!
2 quick flights - ATH > IST > AYT
This place is amazingβ¦
I wonβt be posting anything from the retreat but this hotel is beautiful
One more flight
