After a long flight from Atlanta and a few hours in the Athens airport I arrive on the island of Naxos. Check out this modern, sophisticated airport!

No computerized baggage claim here! Here in Naxos there is a small doorway to a small room where people fight to get into, find their bag, then push their way out. As with many things in Greece it is organized chaos. Even though I’ve done carryon from US, I have to check my bag for this prop plane. So I wait…

I’m spending the first 3 nights at Galini Hotel, a small family run hotel that was recommended by Angelos, the hotel owner in Alonissos last year. I share the connection with the two brothers that own Galini and they are so happy to know how I found them. These connections are what make these trips special.

This is a lovely hotel but the view is the best part.

I walk down to the closest beach, Agios Georgeos, St George Beach, where I rent a sunbed and settle in. I have to remind myself that my first day in a new place can be really jarring, especially after flying all night. I’m tired, hungry and nothing feels intuitive. I know this from other trips so try my best to accept the unfamiliarity.

But what will help anyone get their bearings in Greece will be a Greek salad at a beach taverna. My first audible Yum.

I do some reading, have a quick swim and then a beach nap. I think I will get the hang of things pretty quickly.

I walk into town at sunset, and take some time to settle in.

Naxos Chora, the main town, is buzzing with people. Families, couples and locals. Oh, and cats. It’s a nice energy.

As I settle back in to Greece, I’m reminded of a few important parts of Greek life. These things are an important part of assimilating to Greece!

1. Do not put toilet paper in the toilet. It is literally a sin or a crime or something very serious. When the hotel manager shows me my room, he reminds me of this rule and says “Welcome to Greece”
2. Greek people express their emotions by yelling. You may think they are fighting with one another but they may be saying “I LOVE YOU”. I heard a guy screaming in to his phone so loudly, but there were several Bravos in the conversation.
3. They have their own way of doing things. Ie the baggage claim. Don’t fight it
4. Greek people may seem unapproachable but they may be the kindest people I’ve ever met. A smile and Kalimera will make them break into a warm embrace

As I sit for dinner I hear a bit of every language and see every type of attire and am warmed by the diversity of travel. I’m reminded that there is a very big world out here, far away and much bigger than my little bubble.

Just as I’m ready to leave the restaurant, I meet two lovely souls from Munich, Havid and Tomas. They invite me to join them for a drink and we have a beautiful conversation where we talk about the world, travel and love. We uncover a mutual friend, Angelos, from Alonissos. The world can really be small.

Havid and Tomas, thank you so much for inviting me to join you. I hope we will see each other again.

This is what travel is about. I can’t wait to explore this island and learn more about what makes it unique.

Cheers!