Are we crazy? Yes, of course we are crazy! Only Jessy and I would be crazy enough to book an excursion. on the last full day of or vacation. So in the tour bus we stepped and off we went.
I got the privilege of listening to the same lovely tour guide we had earlier in the week, tell even more interesting facts about the island. Today we were headed to Papadellis Olive Oil Producer where we would learn how olives are harvested and prepared for consumption. Followed by a trip to Mitylini (the capital of Lesbos) and Agiassos.
At the olive oil producer, we had a detailed explanation of how olive oil is prepared once olives are harvested. We saw some of the equipment used and a short film on a big screen showed the work in progress. Of course we were also able to taste different types of olive oil and buy souvenirs before moving onto the next location.
In both Mytilini and Agiassos we had free time to walk around, take pics, shop and eat yummy food and that’s exactly what we did. Starting with a drink at the nearest restaurant – not at all because I needed the loo – but the restaurant owner was pleased that we asked for drinks too. I don’t think he has many tourists visit.
We may have stopped at more than one terrace for snacks and drinks. Those snacks may or may not have included cookies and different flavored cakes. But that’s more than ok, I’m allowed all the noms when on vacation. The souvenirs included some books for Jessy to reads and some coloring books for me to, well, color in!
Both Mytilini and Agiassos were very different to walk around compared to the quietness of Molyvos and Petra. More people, more cars and generally a little bit more chaotic. More shops too. As we passed the toy shops, the realisation of the Greek way of life being so different to ours, really hit hard. It isn’t Pokemon plushies and the latest Nintendo switch that you see in the store fronts. Older, more traditional wooden toys lined the shelves. And while I’m sure there’s a way to order a Nintendo switch from the internet, I realized that it’s maybe not the first thing a Greek child might ask for for Christmas. Budgets are smaller, expectations are lower and there’s still joy in going out to play with your friends after school. That is, if you’re not old enough to be expected to help out with the local business.
While on the tour bus on our way back to Villa Vicky, I sat with the satisfaction of how pleasant the week has been. How much I’ve learned and all the new things I’ve experienced. For me, a vacation isn’t just about going to the beach and eating all the nice food I can find. It’s about experiencing a different way of life in a different culture. Lesbos certainly made that experience more than enjoyable.
Thanks Lesbos for being such a great host. I’ll be back to visit again one day.
DonnieTown 