Adventure in Greece - 2008

Day 1 
After arriving in Athens, we checked into our hotel and went to explore the city. Although we rushed to get into the Acropolis, it was too late so we just wandered the streets. After much walking I was amazed to find an open-air rooftop cinema showing Greek Movies! Later we went to a dessert shop facing the Acropolis. Once again, I was on a rooftop and the view was simply breathtaking (And the chocolate waffle topped with ice cream was super delicious!).

Day 2
The press conference for Mamma Mia! was held at the Plaza Hotel. It started at 9 am and continued all day. To kill time, I ate lots of Greek food at the buffet table and made friends with a Peruvian Journalist.

For those who don’t know, Mamma Mia! is a big screen version of the hit stage musical. Set to the songs of ABBA, the story tells of a would-be bride on a Greek island who dreams of having her father walk her down the aisle. But since her mother -Merryl Streep- has never told her who her father is, she invites three possible candidates, played by Colin Firth, Pierce Brosnan and Stellan Skarsgard.

My interview with Colin Firth was tough, because the wind was blowing so hard, my hair covered my face the entire time (I knew I shouldn’t had a haircut, man!). Next up was the incomparable Merryl Strep! What can I say? She laughed at all my jokes, so that made my day!

Day 3
Since it was a sunny morning, we decided to hit the beach and grab some rays. The beach was postcard perfect with blindingly blue water and a sky to match. Only after lunch did we venture into town-and finally made it to the Acropolis.

Day 4
On our final day, we went to the other side of the city. Although it offered less shop, it had more historical sites. At the ancient Parliament Building, they have similar guards that you’d see at Buckingham Palace. You know, the types who don’t smile eventhough when you poke them! I said, “Nice shoes” and he said nothing. But I wasn’t just truing to get a reaction -honestly, the guy had the biggest shoes I’ve ever seen!

What a Trip!

Nicholas Saputra