Live Free or Die Hard.

Today we visited Lindos! I was really excited because I was told it was a very small but memorable place. It was so beautiful and more of what I expected Greece to be like. There were white houses with corners shaved off flat so that when the donkeys pass, they don't hurt themselves on the sharp corners.

We went into the most beautiful church that was covered in frescoes and decorated with insane amounts of gold and silver. It was very cool because our awesome tour guide explained some of the pictures, the saints, and the different parts of the church. We also visited the ancient temple and the cafe where all the pirates eat/drink. The cafe had great hot chocolate (with espresso) and yogurt with honey and walnuts. Then we walked through the town a little more before we had to leave.

On our way back to our hotel, we stopped at a mineral water, healing spa where we got splashed by the waves of the sea, explored caves, and climbed to the edge of cliffs. It was very beautiful and so much fun!

The day seemed to pass by so quickly but I had a blast and will remember this little town forever. And when I was told the blog topic for the evening, I made a lot great connections from my adventures in Lindos and my experiences here in Greece, overall.

Before the trip even started, I had decided to take every opportunity I was presented with so as to make the most of my time here. And I've really tried to live like a Greek and live free while I'm here! And to do that, I've found myself some great adventures with my wonderful classmates.

Today I woke up at 7 am to get ready for the day and watch the sunrise, after going to bed close to 3 am from hanging out with my classmates around the town in different cafes/restaurants to celebrate my friend Maddie's birthday. I was very tired but tea and espresso seemed to keep me awake enough to function all day.

Today in Lindos, I climbed to the top of a rock cliff thing that overlooked the ocean and got completely separated from the group. I was lost in my own little world, taking pictures, admiring the beauty around me, and taking in the power of it all. Once I realized that I couldn't see or hear anyone from my group, I quickly headed back down the rocks (losing my way at least 3 times and having to lean over the edge to find the path that first led me up). It wasn't long before I found the huddled group I had deserted for a short while. But I took a chance to explore somewhere dangerous, challenging, fun, and beautiful and I don't regret it in the slightest. Oh, and I also sat on the edge of the ancient temple area which was a little scary but a breathtaking sight.

Today I ate Greek yogurt and had espresso with the Pirates of Lindos and below is a picture of the fierce and intimidating owner of the pirate cafe himself!

And lastly, I have really opened up and been willing and desiring to learn everything I can. I learned from the waiter at the Souvlaki restaurant how to say a few different things in Greek. I've learned that in Greek legend, pirates were transformed into dolphins at one point in time and that is why dolphins always follow ships. I've learned that Greeks really were the first to do EVERYTHING (including rap - MC Homer). I've learned about 'evil eyes' and that they absorb the evil energy being sent a person's way. I've learned that the Roman Colosseum was named after the Colossus of Rhodes. And I've learned a ridiculous amount more!

I have done so much, even just today, and I know I have more adventures to come in my last few days here in Greece! I plan on truly Living Free and returning home with no regrets, only dear memories and hope of return.

-Jess