Athens, Greece

Compared to the hectic streets in Istanbul, Athens was relatively calm and peaceful. The history of Athens makes it unforgettable. Here was the first democracy in the world. Many of the great philosophers who laid the foundations of modern thought first expressed their ideas in the very buildings I visited. The beautiful surrounding mountains all seem to point to the history and beauty of the Acropolis in the center of the city. We were lucky enough to show up on the one day of the week that all museums are free! My physics background also proved useful in reading the greek street signs. Two days was enough to see the city, but the surrounding islands are something I would still love to explore.