We took the highway with its many tolls and after a 3 hour scenic trip we arrived in Gytheio at the Cavo Grosso Bungalows with a view of the Gulf of Laconia, an offshoot of the Mediterranean Sea. Our first impression of the room was that it was neat and clean with a tile floor and had all the basics, even Nescafe coffee packets. The bed was comfortable, but nothing luxurious.
We were tired so we showered and took a nap after which we drove to the city center for dinner. It was a typical greek center with restaurants lining the streets - all the table outside. We chose one and had a pizza on the waterfront. Then back for a good nights rest.
In the morning, as we were drinking our Nescafe, we commented that it reminded us of our time Africa. After being in the bush for months, this would have been luxurious. By our American standards it is just a notch above camping. Since our room did not include breakfast, we walked to the mini mart and bought some Greek Yogurt and Honey.
As I have learned from our many travels, sometimes you have to be uncomfortable for a bit before you discover the hidden treasures of another culture. As we walked up the hill with its cobble stone streets and olive trees we realized that this is real life for the many Greeks. The girl that waited on us at the restaurant had never been out of the Peloponnese and to meet someone from America was extra ordinary.
We drove to Monemvasia, once called the Gibraltar of the Eastern Mediterranean. It is a rock island tied to the mainland by a 1000 foot causeway. It housed a fortress for the Venetians and Ottomans and is noted for it Byzantine era houses, streets, churches and castle. Today it is one of the top tourist destinations in the Peloponnese.
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