George - I wouldn't DREAM of driving in Athens - which would be more of a nightmare in any case! Last time we were there, we were treated to a drag race down Syngrou at 120+ kph, with our cab driver shouting and gesticulating at another cab driver, who was shouting and gesticulating back. Oddly, I wasn't especially scared - it was a bit too theatrical - just annoyed that we were being carried past our destination. We didn't tip... We were considering the possibility of driving in the Peloponessus, but I think we'll probably pass on that too for now.

Even at the height of the Vietnam war, while living in/travelling in Europe, I didn't resort to telling people I was Canadian, thank you. We do know how to keep a fairly low profile, however. And I'm perfectly willing to assert "Makedonia is Greek" in the interest of being a polite visitor. Yes, mostly we will avoid political conversations. (I avoid discusssing politics on FT, too, come to think of it...)

Riding the new subway lines will be a must-do. (That's a LexPax thing which I will humor him on.)

Blair - I'm very tempted by Crete, and in fact had thought of it before I even posted this topic. Your reccy makes it even more tempting. But LexPassenger, for all his good qualities, is always much happier with a known, or a less unknown, quantity than plunging off into something entirely new. And it's a short time for such a terrific lot to see.

Another current possibility is Rhodes; Olympic flies there for about the same price as to Crete; it's also an island I've long wanted to see, and would be more graspable in the short time we have. But with the current Marriott double nights/points bonus, LexPax is leaning fairly hard to staying in Athens, and going for day trips. I guess I can just about put up with with that. ;-)

Leisure - we stayed at the Marriott on our last visit - know all about the sidewalks, or lack thereof, construction sites, etc. in the area. Not to mention the location is a challenge... We walked from the Marriott to the Acropolis one day when the shuttle wasn't running because of a demonstration around Syntagma Square. Not that big a deal perhaps (although I'm not exactly Ms Fitness) but it involved dealing lots of traffic at various points.

We ate at the Polynesian restaurant the first night we were in, mostly because I was too tired to go elsewhere. You're right - it was actually pretty good. We also ate at the regular restaurant our last night, and had quite a pleasant meal, much better than I'd expected. I think I'll skip the Poly this time, but we may well go back to the other one night, if we're feeling tired or unadventurous.

Thanks to all 3 of you for the feedback. I must say, I do see why people have been reluctant to post questions over here; compared to the old Travel Buzz, it's pretty quiet. So your replies are especially appreciated.

edited for various typos



[This message has been edited by GG (edited 10-22-2001).]