It's Spooky Season, and this one’s for those of you who love a few goosebumps with your Greek culture.
I just published a new article that dives into some of the creepiest creatures in dark Greek myth and folklore; ghost ships that vanish into the mist, sea monsters that lurk just below the surface, and witches that specialize in ancient curses. And did you know Greece had dragon stories? You generally think of western Europe for those, but no - we had them, too.
Of course there's also a vampire myth, because Greece is technically in the Balkans, which is also home to Romania, which is home to Transylvania, which....you get the idea. Lots of antsy dead folks who enjoy a night out, is what I'm sayin'.
IYKYK
If you don't, this is Nadja from the bawdy comedy "What We Do in the Shadows",
and she is a Greek vampire who occasionally swears in Greek on the show.
These aren’t just the old familiar gods and goddesses—these are the creatures that haunted the ancient Greeks’ nightmares. If you’re in the mood for something that’ll make you think twice about going out after dark, click here and check out my newest deep dive into the world of Greek creature features.
More Fun Stuff: My Latest Greek Adventure
Speaking of things that haunt your dreams (but in a nice way)... I just got back from a trip to Greece, and it was everything wonderful, delicious and fun. This time around, I explored the eastern side of Crete, the island I fell in love with last year. This time, rather than hit the popular western side again, I ventured into the quieter east side of the island and stayed in the lovely little beachside town of Sitia. From there I drove to the beautiful Toplou Monastery and Vai beach, which is unexpectedly surrounded by palm trees. The drive to those places is almost completely desolate, except for a few very nosy goats.
Like, REALLY nosy...
Toplou Monastery
Sitia Harbor
I also made my way to the Saronic islands of Aegina, Moni, and Hydra. The highlight? Swimming next to peacocks on Moni, which is a wildlife sanctuary. The island’s peacocks were just chilling by the shore while I enjoyed a dip, and there's a whole welcoming committee of about 20 or so curious birds at the dock who check out everyone who gets off the boat. The island also has tame-ish deer, and the sweet little thing below came up to me to say hi. Greek island magic, right?
And of course, Aegina has one of the most beautiful temples in all of Greece - the temple of Aphaia.
Then there was Hydra, where I spent some time strolling the scenic little harbor alongside the mules that convey people and goods around the island. Hydra doesn't allow any cars, so it's mules or feet if you want to get around. Hydra also has some of the most luscious water I've seen on this particular trip. I was only sorry I wasn't there long enough to swim.
Of course, I couldn’t skip my beloved under-the-radar Evia, a place that's really starting to feel like home. It was also starting to feel like autumn now...
And no trip is complete without some time in Athens, where I got to meet up with family, as well a old friends and new, and eat the kind of food that makes you want to cry (in the best way). Between the souvlaki, the super-fresh salads and produce, the stunning pastries, and those perfect tomatoes... yeah, Greece never disappoints.
The traditional taverna-style Pile 'o Meat.
And of course, I had to check out Little Kook's seasonal display. Little Kook is a famous dessert place near Monastiraki that GOES HARD with their decorations...
(Are you enjoying these photos and videos? Then why not follow me on Instagram, where you'll see many more from this and previous trips!)
So, while I recover from my Greek food coma, why not go on your own mythological adventure? Check out the new article here, and watch out for what's lurking in the dark.
Bye for now,
Barbara
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