Welcome aboard as we embark on an exciting pilot’s journey across the European skies, bound for the captivating city of Athens, Greece. As a pilot, I am delighted to share today’s experiences, from navigating the skies of Europe to exploring the ancient wonders and staying at the Moxy Hotel in downtown Athens.
Pre-Flight Preparations and European Skies
As any pilot who has flown in EUROCONTROL knows, flying in Europe can be both challenging and rewarding. Our carefully planned route takes us south from Frankfurt, Germany and into Athens, Greece. The skies above Europe are busy, with many diverse languages and accents over the radio. Every new country and controller add a touch of multiculturalism to our journey. Be careful though, you need to listen carefully for your callsign, it isn’t always easy to catch the first time.
With a thorough pre-flight complete we are ready to take off and soar over the European landscapes. Each new country offers its own unique charm and beauty.
Touchdown in Athens and the Moxy Hotel
After a smooth flight, we finally touch down in Athens, Greece, a city steeped in history and mythology. We land on the opposite side of the airport which results in a little longer taxi than usual. We are staying for two nights, so a “Follow Me” car leads us to the General Aviation RON ramp on the backside of the airport. A little too far away it turns out since it appears the FBO forgot about us for awhile. Eventually, a crew car finally shows up and delivers us to the General Aviation terminal. A 20-minute taxi ride brings us into the city center and to our accommodations. The Moxy Hotel, known for its modern charm and vibrant atmosphere is a division of Marriott and doesn’t disappoint. The hotel’s contemporary decor and friendly staff welcomed us with warm Greek hospitality.
The rooms were stylish and comfortable, providing much-needed rest in an air conditioned room after a long day in the skies. If you’ve been watching the news, you’ll know the summer of 2023 is scorching hot. This week, Rome sees a high of 107F. As pilots, we value our sleep, and the Moxy Hotel provided the perfect sanctuary for us to recharge before our adventures in Athens.
Exploring the Marvels of Acropolis
No trip to Athens is complete without visiting the iconic Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has stood the test of time. We set out early in the morning, eager to witness the awe-inspiring Parthenon, dedicated to the goddess Athena, and the other ancient structures that graced the Acropolis. It appears summertime in Rome is also a popular time for Cruisers to visit as well. Thinking ahead, we purchased on-line tickets, but even then we had to wait an hour to enter the heritage site due to all the cruise tours overwhelming the turnstiles. The sweltering heat is a beast to deal with. My bottle of water didn’t last too long. Local merchants walk up and down the line of tourists waiting to enter, selling water and battery operated fans. I almost buy a fan, but opt instead for a lemon slushy from the snack bar.
Finally, the line starts to move, and we finally enter through the gates. As we ascend the hill, the grandeur of the ancient ruins leave us speechless. The Acropolis, with its breathtaking views of the city, is a testament to the ingenuity and architectural brilliance of the ancient Greeks.
We follow a self-guided audio tour to learn more about the history and significance of each monument. The phone app tour guide shares knowledgeable and passionate information as we walk through. The geo-locating app brings the past to life with captivating stories and historical anecdotes. The entire site is a marvel to see firsthand.
A Taste of Greek Cuisine
Thankfully, our hotel is only a 30-minute walk from the Acropolis. We got an early start to the day hoping to avoid the heat. With several hours of walking the ruins behind us, we find ourselves ready for lunch on our walk back to the hotel. Eager for a taste of Athens, we delight our taste buds with mouthwatering Greek cuisine. From savory gyros to delectable stuffed grape leaves, we savor every bite. The local restaurants offer tourists a friendly ambiance, and we are welcomed like old friends as we feast on traditional dishes and sip ice cold Orange Fanta drinks.
Final Thoughts
Our journey to Athens is an unforgettable experience, filled with moments of awe, cultural immersion, and warm hospitality. The city’s rich history and modern vibrancy blend seamlessly, making it a unique destination for travelers from all walks of life.
Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast on a pilot’s journey, a history buff, or simply seeking a memorable vacation, Athens has something special to offer. So, pack your bags, embrace the spirit of adventure, and discover the timeless charm of this fascinating city.
Check out the rest of my European Summer Journey
