But it NEVER rains in Athens!

Our first full day in Athens concluded with a stroll around the Plaka. We ended up on an Ouzo bar which was too picturesque to pass by.

Any minute now, you'll be his best mate.

 Ouzo is the national drink of Greece, a spirit with a strong aniseed flavour. That's fine if you like that sort of thing, which Philipa does. Dec, on the other hand, had to try a couple of the other offerings which lack the aniseed but pack the same punch. Raki and Tsipouro by name, they slip down a little too easily. A great way to round off the day. But maybe not EVERY day.

Go on, say it. I dare you.

Wednesday dawned and after another fine breakfast we set off for a stroll around Athens, with a view to climbing Licabettus, the largest hill in town. The outlook was sunny, and we walked through the National Garden, which is surrounded by government buildings including the Presidential Palace. While we ambled through the garden we heard a band approaching, and found ourselves watching a parade of Evzones, the ceremonial guard in their distinctive uniform. It would be tempting to call it slightly ridiculous, if not ever so slightly camp. But this is an elite force with weapons and a fearsome rep, so we'll say no more.

Later we made our way to Kolonaki square and as we ordered coffee in the Da Capo, we scoffed at a few passers-by who were wearing or carrying raincoats. Those fortunate people! Minutes after leaving the cafe, the heavens opened in a truly British style. P&D were dressed for the hot sunny weather, with neither jacket nor brolly between us. Our mission to Licabettus was postponed and we found a very nice cafe to take a spot of lunch while the skies cleared.

We spent the afternoon in the Benaki museum, a fantastic collection of artefacts covering the history of Greece from the stone age to the present day, including lots of jewellery dating back to the 6th century BC. We followed our noses back to our lodgings via the flea market, an area filled with more T-shirt and tat shops than any city really needs.