Santorini, redeemed!

Another ridiculous-floppy-hat day in Greece today. Though I spent a lot of time holding said ridiculous-floppy-hat on my head because of the wind!

Sidebar: Greek yogurt hits different in Greece. It doesn’t have that weird bite that Greek yogurt can have in the US. This morning’s Santorini version was served with apples, walnuts, and honey. Must add this to the home rotation.

Also: the fresh orange juice and freddo (iced) espresso game in Greece is perfection.

It’s taken 8 days, but I’ve finally acclimated to a few words in the Greek language. My favorite is, “Naí” which, counterintuitively for English speakers, means yes. But the best and most endearing part of this word is that it’s physically impossible for the Greeks to say it less than three times in rapid succession. I love it.

Spent several hours with a local guide (who is an archaeologist) visiting and learning about the caldera of Santorini, and the less touristy areas of the island. Blissfully, we were nowhere near donkey shit mountain today. I still have PTSD from that experience.

Visited the winery Estate Argyros this afternoon. Santorini is such an arid, windy, unforgiving environment. Got to see the traditional basket shaped vines that protect the grapes from said environment. Tasted some lovely assyrtiko, and some really special vinsanto. Bought the vinsanto to bring home with me. Made friends with the winery dogs, Oía and Caldo. I may or may not have given them contraband snacks.

Stopped at both the Crazy Donkey and Blue Monkey breweries. No beers for me, though. I’m trying to exercise restraint. Also day drinking makes me wildly sleepy.

Greek rule: You never say cheers with water. It’s bad luck.

Had a truly unforgettable dinner tonight, overlooking the caldera. Watched the sunset, and then the full moon rise above Santorini. Stunning.