From: amy_m_sanders@hotmail.com
Date: Mon, 23 Aug 1999
Subject: Attitude Adjustment
Dear All,
Greetings from the Greek Islands. Ha! One month ago I was in Bangkok having just arrived from Hanoi, Vietnam and on my way to the UK. Where do I begin?
Only with a little hindsight bias do I now realize how rapidly I burnt out in Vietnam. Oh, but the experience was divine -- all of it. And so after a little beauty treatment in Bangkok (facial, pedicure, manicure, shampoo, haircut, and massage for the gorgeous price of $17 USD), I set my sights west (no more low prices).
Spent a good 2 hours in the clean public restrooms of the London Underground. Hugged a few and then went straight up to the Lake District for a week of reuniting with old friends and new friends from my travels. Got the royal treatment and had a beautiful time! Love England. So civilized. Spent another week in London doing a few touristy things but mostly reuniting with friends I met on the road. Spent too much money and had some rowdy nights out and about. What's a backpacker to do?
Flew to Santorini and felt immediately lost as I was there 2 years ago with Vanessa. I kept scanning the beaches for a glimpse of old friends. I actually ran into Greek friends I met 2 yrs ago (to the exact day in fact). Craziness. Spent 5 days there and then I came to Crete (where I am now) 11 days ago. Crete's my favorite of the islands.
Didn't I say I couldn't take the heat in Asia? Well, at least Asians understand the beauty of fans in 100 F temperatures. The Greeks don't (no surprise). And... it's been well over 100 F here. I'm nearing madness.
The Greeks are an interesting sort. They don't smile. Their style is brash and by my standards, damn rude. Prices change everyday depending on their mood. They smoke right next to non-smoking signs. It's their way or the highway. If you aren't pleased with food or drink from a resturant, you're welcome to pay immediately, then leave. There are no such things as queues; it's a push-your-way-to-the-front kind of culture. Siesta is their way of life. I actually sought out employment (sort of) as resources are depleting. Unfortunately, the male owners (as all owners in Greece are male of course) wanted me to wear short skirts and be extra kind to them and their customers. Well, that was that. I'm still unemployed.
But... despite all of the above, it's become endearing. I love this country... and all its oddities.
In 2 days time, I part ways with Tracey, a wonderful Aussie I've been travelling with for 2 wks now. Then I'm off to Naxos to meet Liz... AGAIN! I can't wait! Planning on Northern Greece and Turkey for the next ~4 wks.
I miss you all. Pray for colder climates.
Yours,
Amy