Paxos day two

 Liina gave me an enthusiastic recommendation for a coffee in the middle of the island so I made that my first mission of the day. I had my morning cuppa outside, enjoying the sunshine and fresh air. People are curious about an English speaker they don’t recognize hanging around at this time of year. When people realize I don’t speak Greek they’re always shocked and curiously ask me where I’m from. 

A resident

After coffee I went to Lakka, the northernmost village on the island. Lakka is more vibrant than Longos but still quite small. Chris and Liina enthusiastic recommend I go to a bakery there for a specific loaf of dense barely risen bread. No need to remember the name of the bakery, it’s not like more than one is going to be open this time of year. I scanned the shelves and found a short loaf that bore a resemblance to my own baking when I improperly activate my yeast. I ate it on a boat launch and took in the scenery. The bread was more like a Greek focaccia. Mission failed. Absolutely delicious.

Sittin on the dock of the bay wasting time

My next stop was Erimitis beach. A pebble and sand beach on the west end of the island. To get to the beach, first I had to take the rented scooter through about a kilometer of off-roading. The path is occasionally paved, full of stones, and still muddy from the recent rains. I managed to make it to the end without getting wet or dumping the bike. Then it’s a gentle walk down an endless cascade of slippery marble steps.

Every one of these was wet and polished

The beach was gorgeous. White stones, blue water, and massive cliffs surrounded me. Best of all, it was mine to enjoy for at least a while. I dipped my toe in and froze to death. Oh well, at least now I can say I’ve been in the Mediterranean on this trip. The sun was very out so I plopped myself on a rock to soak up the rays, eat more bread, and listen to All Things Must Pass. In good time, I had my fill of the place and packed up to leave. I turned around and saw someone coming down to enjoy some solitude. Perfect timing, we cannot keep these spots for ourselves for forever.

Token vanity vacation swimsuit photo

I went back to Gaios, returned the scooter, and got to work on planning. Tomorrow I go to a new island and I need to figure out where I’m staying. Somehow one of the most affordable rooms available was in a large hotel. I’m going to have a pool! Finally this swimsuit I’ve been carrying will not have been in vain.

Liina and I arranged to meet up for a drink to chat before I left. We went to her usual haunt and chatted for some time about traveling, life in the US, and what is next for the both of us. She’s settling in to life in this island, learning Greek, and connecting with her heritage. As far as what that means for the long term man plans and God laughs. Who knows where she or I will wind up.