Submitted by Nicholas Kayatta on the 2022 winter session program in Greece sponsored by the Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures…
Since arriving in Greece, I have found Athens exciting and beautiful. The bus ride from the airport to our apartment allowed us to get an overview of Athens and the surrounding neighborhoods with a view that totally captured me. Seeing the city from above with the mixing of ancient and modern housing was truly a sight to see. One of the things that surprised me the most getting off the bus was all of the orange trees found in the city. I never knew that Greece produced oranges and I was shocked to see them lined up everywhere on the streets. Another difference I did not expect was navigating the city. There are no real street signs or maps to follow so we have to rely on memory or asking strangers where to go. Although it is scary at first, it becomes natural and makes exploring more fun in my opinion.
Perhaps the best part of my program so far has been the local cuisine. There has not been a bad dish so far and the level of freshness in each meal amazes me each time. In Greece, there are usually appetizers before meals such as a Greek salad and tzatziki served with French fries or pita. The addition of those appetizers before meals is something I really appreciate since in America that is something that usually costs extra.
Lastly, I consider myself very fortunate to have toured the Acropolis yesterday. The Acropolis is something that I have waited to see my entire life and it took my breath away climbing the last steps to the top and seeing the Parthenon with my own eyes. The view was other worldly from the top and is something I will never forget.
