What I've learned in Greece - Final Round-up

#1 There are Acropoli in a good majority of the cities/islands you visit. But really, there is only one and a trip to Greece is not a trip to Greece without seeing it.

The view of the Acropolis in Athens from the top of our hotel

#2 Greek salad is the law. By this, I mean that the Greek government has declared that all restaurants must have Greek salad on their menu. Even if you're in one of the few non-Greek restaurants in any location, it is on the menu. "Today's special: Vegetable samosas, chicken tikka masala, and Greek salad."

This is why their crime rate is so low.

#3 It is impossible to take a bad picture in Santorini. It was hard enough just choosing one for this post.

View of the harbor from Oia

#4 In England, there is a terminology where you can call someone a Chav. I had some basic education as to the meaning prior to my trip i.e. "Kevin Federline is American mutton dressed as Chav". However, after my trip to Greece, I have had the full, Berlitz-style immersion course regarding Chavs, as I have dined and fought for my little share of the beach amongst them. I now understand they are the reason Burberry discontinued its signature plaid. There is a Chav site devoted to the explanation of Chavs; it's a little old, but still highly relevant. With their help, you can name your Chav baby, for which I found that mine would be Chardonnay Charmaine. Britney, are you listening to this?

Make no mistake, Chavs are not a purely English phenomenom. I have learned firsthand, they are an international plague, which is why I implore you that should you ever visit Crete, stay away from Hersonnisos!

#5 In reference to the above, when visiting Rhodes, it's best to stay away from Faliraki as well. Apparently, British Chavs hold their annual, three-month long convention in this part of the island every summer and you are not missing a thing if you skip it. The Chav phenomenon combined with the concept of "Brits on Holiday" is the reason why British tour groups are banned from booking anything in Rhodes Town, which is where we stayed. As a result, C and I were anomalies in what is largely a Scandinavian and Dutch resort.

If you're hardy enough, Rhodes is small enough for you to hire a scooter and make a day of stopping by to visit different parts of the island. Lindos is on the south side of the island and, like Rhodes Town, is a port city. Of the two Acropoli on the island, Lindos has the better where you can get up close and personal to the site. Do it quick, before they rope everything off there too. It's a beautiful town with a crystal clear bay that I've heard makes it ideal for snorkeling, as well as families. But if you want the history of a 12th century castle, a real Old City, and the Colossus of Rhodes, mixed in with a resort element and Bar Street, then Rhodes Town is for you.

Last Rhodes mention for Amantou beach. Go here if you want to get away from the madding crowds and have nearly pure, unadulterated beach with complete peace and quiet. Be sure to bring everything you could possibly need for the whole day.

#6 A wrong turn can be a good thing.

Anger at the world condition in the backstreets of Athens.

#7 It's commonly said, but I can't reiterate it enough - media coverage of world events is vastly different once you're out of the United States.

#8 In Greece, the difference between a traveler and a tourist becomes hugely evident. If the latter is lucky, they'll make a wrong turn after too many shots and catch that 12th century castle on the way back to the hotel.

#9 Not about Greece as I'm in England as I type this, but why do we not have Heinz Curry Ketchup in the States?!?!