Afissos
Rhian and I spent last week in the village of Afissos on the Pelion peninsula, Greece. Afissos is a small village of only a few hundred people on the coast of the Pagasitic Gulf.We stayed at the Hotel Katia which overlooks the small village square. The square is the hub of the village and is packed with locals of all generations from first thing in the morning until the early hours.
We visited at supposedly the busiest time of year. However, the Athenian masses, who normally pack the tavernas and bars, must have been busy laying roads and erecting stadia as the village was relatively quiet.
Landing at Volos airport was a strange experience. Volos is a military airport and as we came into land the view from the window resembled a Pentagon press conference - minus the cross hairs, explosions and wedding parties.
We spent a day visiting Volos. The city had one of the most agreeable cafe cultures I have encountered. The quay side was lined with bars whose tables spread out onto the promenade. We hid from the afternoon sun under canvas roofs, on cane armchairs whilst being sprayed my a fine mist of water. Those with a fetish for handbags and shoes would appreciate Volos. Every other shop seemed to sell them.
Most of the Greek drinks were pretty disgusting. The coffee tasted like a cup of warm mud. The Tsipuro was revolting and I didn’t manage to acquire a taste for Ouzo (though I think it could grow on me). Suprisingly the lager (Mythos) was excellent and some of the wine was decent enough.
I loved the informal and unpretentious nature of the Greek tavernas. The food was fantastic. Favourite dishes included: Melitzanosalata (Aubergine); Taramasalata (Fish roe); Tzatziki (Yogurt, garlic and cucumber); Grilled octopus; and Yigantes (Butter beans and tomato).