Many of you have questioned why I chose to use the train over the plane, both domestically, and in foreign countries.  The first and obvious answer is that it generally costs less.  And second, it produces a smaller carbon footprint.  And third, it generally starts and ends in the center of a city or town.  And in my opinion, more fun!

Fodor’s discusses the train option in greater detail.  My friend Katy who travels the world 365 days a year, always opts for the train or ship, and rarely flies.   Kudos to her!

New and updated rail networks are popping up all over the world.  Of course, there have been some rather horrendous rail accidents in the past few months, mostly with freight trains, but a few passenger trains as well.

The train is more predictable than the plane.  There are fewer encounters and rules, no TSA, no metal detectors, and I am free to bring bottled water, even champagne onto the train.  No security line!!

Train luggage allowance is more liberal than the plane, and costs less as well.  For short trips, your carry on will suffice.  For longer trips, check a larger bag focused on your destination, and use the carryon enroute for showers, sleep, and casual dressing.  Slippers are always a treat for me on longer train rides.

The seats are much more comfortable, and generally only two-wide.  And most recline to a comfortable angle.  Some have an adjustable footrest, some allow windows to open for fresh air, and most always, a very effective shade can be pulled down for privacy and comfort.  And workaholics can opt for a seat with a table for your laptop and other work material.

Superior service is a given, along with a lighter, more laidback mood on the train.  There are no limitations to refreshment time, potty time, or snack and mealtime.  And you can always bring your own.

First and Business class are more affordable than on a plane.  On long rides, a private roomette or cabin is most enjoyable.

No hidden fees, for things like baggage, or boarding time.  First class often includes meals, snacks, water, and even wine tasting.

The view from the ground allows a glimpse into everyday life.  The view from a plane tends toward cloudy skies, or large expanses of farmland and desert.  I particularly enjoy the views in far off places, like Siberia, Patagonia, Canada, and Peru.

Ahhhh, the sleeper car!  This is perhaps the best part of train travel.  And the bed is much more comfortable than anything on an airplane, short of a Singapore Airlines suite.

Less pre-travel time, just show up, as the train may arrive early, but cannot leave until its scheduled departure!  No TSA, no long baggage lines, no cattle call when boarding.  Train stations tend to be located in the center of most cities.

Less post-travel time, since the main train stations are in the center of the city.  And related travel infrastructure, like buses and subway/trams are more likely options, post flight.

The schedule is much more reliable than air travel.  In Japan, the bullet trains arrive and depart at the specified time.

Train bathrooms are much roomier.  Your forehead will appreciate it!

Moving freely is great, from the observation car to the dining car, to the movie car, to your own space.  Being able to walk the train from front to back is a lifesaver.

Generally, the train is a smoother ride, with no air turbulence!  And the comforting sound of clickety clack lends to the adventure and romance of train travel.

Train stations in many countries are showpieces of the city and the era.  Some are so magnificent, they become museums (Musee d’Orsay).  Even in the US, Denver, Washington DC, Grand Central are amazing sights.

Taking the train is a better option to experience what everyday life is for the locals.  I have much some amazing people on the train.

Tickets tend to be more flexible, can be upgraded or changed at the last minute.  I missed the Trans-Siberian Railway in Ekaterinburg, and was re-ticketed to a later train.

Most train operators have wi-fi now, except for Amtrak here in the U.S.  

Ride in style, the romantic era of trains are making a big comeback, from the Rocky Mountaineer in Canada to the Rovos Rail in South Africa.  

Here is my bottom line for you.  Try it once, and I think you will like it.  Even a relatively short haul, like the Coast Starlight here on the west coast will provide a nice introduction for you.  You will not regret it.

The second largest city in Greece is Thessaloniki, in the far north.  It is known for its fabulous food, rich cultural heritage, and beautiful scenery.  It is a year round destination, known for its youthful energy, ancient archaeological sites, and bustling port.

Also known as Salonika, or Saloniki, is home to some of the greatest musicians, poets, thinkers, and artists.

First, let’s start each morning with some bougatsa, flaky layers of filo pastry, with warm custard filling, then topped with cinnamon and powdered sugar.  The recipes at each bakery are a deep, family secret.  But best of all, a cup of strong Greek coffee goes perfectly each morning.

But don’t stop at breakfast.  The restaurants here are known for their creative street food, as well as fine dining.  The flavors are bold, and pair perfectly with the abundant agriculture surrounding the city.  Most restaurants create their own spin on traditional, mixed meze dishes, but always with the local wine.

The big shopping district here is Tsimiski Street, with big brands and boutiques mixed in.  Here, jewelry, handbags and unique clothing appeal to the younger set.  Bezesteni Market is the place for spices, sweets and kitchen goods.

Somewhat uniquely, Thessaloniki has a museum for every period of their history.  For the ancient Greek and Roman period, visit the Thessaloniki Archaeological Museum.  The Museum of Byzantine Culture features mosaics and iconography.  And the Macedonian Museum of Contemporary Art emphasizes the creative heart of the city and area.

To my liking, the Promenade is the city’s best asset.  The seaside location is perfect for an evening stroll with an ice cream in hand, harbor cruises, and ferries to ports far and near.

Thessaloniki is one of the most beautiful cities in Greece.  Eptapyrgio Castle is the perfect place to see the city lights.  White Tower on the seafront was a brutal prison, now a museum with stunning views.

Ano Poli, or the Upper Town, is the historic neighborhood that escaped the Great Fires of 1917.  Here, many Ottoman era homes remain, along with numerous tavernas, such as Tixo Tixo attract locals and tourists.

But street food is fast, cheap and authentic here.  Souvlaki, skewers of pork or chicken, served alone or as a wrap, is the popular choice.  A side of tzatziki (yogurt dip with cucumber) or tirokafteri (spicy cheese dip) pair perfectly.  

The city boasts a strong Jewish history, with a synagogue and museum.  Having once boasted over 50,000 Jewish people, 95% were killed during the Holocaust.  The community numbers only about 1500 today.

Speaking of parties, the Valaoritou district is the city’s happening spot for parties and clubbing.  

Local wine is found nearby at Ktima Gerovassilou, a vineyard and wine museum with 720 acres.  But save yourself for the local tsipouro, a 40-45% alcohol of distilled spirit, a traditional un-aged brandy.

From their website:  Thessaloniki is easy to fall in love with – it has beauty, chaos, history and culture, a remarkable cuisine and wonderful, vast sea views!  Findings prove that Thessaloniki has been inhabited since prehistoric times, marked by multiculturalism, yet its present-day modernized state is charmingly intertwined with archaeological sites, byzantine churches and other significant monuments from the past!

I think you can tell I will be busy for a few days here.  My approach here is simple, a more manageable version of Athens.  Everyone says it is a great place to visit!

Strikes, protests and demonstrations occur regularly, including at tourist sites such as Syntagma Square in central Athens. Public transport is often disrupted, and the protests can turn violent without warning. Avoid locations where protests are happening, monitor media and follow the advice of local authorities.

Syntagma is a major transfer point for the Athens Metro.  It is also home to many restaurants, shops, and the famous Varvakios Market, where restaurants and residents buy fresh fish, meat, produce, and spices.  It is a favorite area of Athens for almost everyone!

More detail:

• Strikes, protests and demonstrations take place regularly and can turn violent. Rioting can break out with little warning. Avoid affected areas, monitor media and follow the advice of local authorities.
• Petty crime and theft are serious issues in tourist areas, buses, and trains. Pickpocketing, bag snatching and slashing luggage to steal belongings are common.
• Physical and sexual assaults occur, particularly on the islands, during summer. Don’t walk alone in isolated areas at night.
• Drink spiking is a risk. Don’t accept drinks from strangers or leave drinks unattended.
• Terrorist attacks have occurred at or near popular tourist areas in central Athens. Always be alert. Take official warnings seriously.
• Bush and forest wildfires are common from June to September. Earthquakes can happen. Monitor the media for updates.

From the travel blogs I have read, pickpocketing has increased on the Metro.  I plan to take George’s Taxi, as I have for my past three trips here. They have great, knowledgeable drivers, and Mercedes cabs.  Dmitri is my favorite.

I have used the Metro numerous times here.  Generally, in the off hours when tourists use it, there are few people on the trains.  Rush hour, of course, can be problematic, as it is anywhere in the world.

Health Warnings:

• COVID-19 remains a risk in Greece. If you catch COVID-19, you must quarantine for at least 5 days. When your symptoms have subsided, you can leave quarantine but must wear a mask for another 5 days.
• Medications such as codeine are subject to special rules. Carry a prescription and a letter from your doctor.
• Measles is common in Greece. Make sure your vaccinations are up-to-date.
• West Nile virus (WNV) can occur, especially in northern Greece. There’s no vaccine to prevent it. Use insect repellent. Make sure your accommodation is insect-proof.
• The standard of medical care varies. Public hospitals are short on medical supplies and provide limited nursing care. Family or friends usually provide care. 
• Private hospitals are expensive. You might be evacuated to Athens if you’re seriously ill or injured on an island. Make sure your travel insurance covers this.

Just remember, you can go to any pharmacy and they can help you with many routine health care and medical needs.

Local laws:

• Always carry an ID, such as a photocopy of your passport.
• Don’t use or carry illegal drugs. Even small amounts can lead to heavy fines and prison sentences.
• It’s illegal to take photos of military sites and personnel. It’s also illegal to smoke indoors.
• You may have to do military service if you’re a male dual national. If you’re of Greek descent and born outside of Greece, get advice from the nearest Greek Embassy or Consulate before you travel.
• Same-sex relationships are legal in Greece, though attitudes vary throughout the country. Avoid public displays of affection, especially in rural areas. Attitudes are generally more accepting on many Greek islands such as Mykonos, Santorini and Ios.

Everybody loves to take photos of the changing of the guard.  It is the most riotous scene in all of Greece.  You must take photos.

See you in Athens!!!!

I will be in Athens by Thursday, via Paris.  From there, who knows, maybe Crete, or Thessaloniki??

Without another set of eyes and ear, traveling solo can be somewhat daunting if you are not organized, and thinking clearly.  A little feedback goes a long way, as does some advanced planning.  I try to use the evening before to plan the next day’s activities.  And despite the best plans, things can go wrong, like the weather.

Travel and Leisure had this to say about traveling alone and making mistakes.

Packing and overpacking-I am usually guilty, but I often give or donate clothes at my destination.  Layering is the key, particularly when visiting both warm and cold destinations.  I am getting better about packing with each trip.  And I still give away clothes along the way.

Overscheduling-Fortunately, I rarely do this.  I try to reserve time for one activity in the morning and one in the afternoon OR evening.  Once in a while, something goes awry and I am busy all day, or all evening.  One of the problems with organized group tours is not enough time for myself.

Always have a backup plan-These days, most attractions allow or require reservations with specific entry times. For those places that don’t, like “rush” for show or concert tickets, or standby on a flight, a backup plan is a must.  

Travel costs-Though I generally overspend, and do not really budget, I understand some people do.  Free days at museums are a big deal, as are free walking tours (tips required).  My thought process is very simple.  I ask myself if I am ever going to return to a particular city or attraction.  If the answer is negative, I will pony up the pesos for the event.

Splurge-I am guilty of doing this often, whether gifts, entry fees, concert or game tickets, upgrades to flights, rail, and hotels.  My philosophy is “you only go around once” so why not live with some gusto.

Alone time-Mostly welcome, but I have found that even though I often travel solo, I am rarely alone, or lonely.  Of course, this depends so much on where you are, preferable a safe place with interesting people.  Just pick and choose your spots carefully.

Make new friends-Well, I do this everywhere.  Thinking back on my recent trips, perhaps just one place presented a challenge for making friends.  Where was this?  Serbia.  But one country out of fifty or sixty is not big deal!

Share your plans-Someone should know when and where you will be.  My Mom tried to find me back in the 70s when I was in Europe.  Why?  She wanted to tell me that my Dad had passed away unexpectedly.   She enlisted the help of the International Red Cross, obviously before cell phones and internet.  Now, I send a daily email, no matter where I am.  I think you can find me.

You only live once-I firmly believe that “once in a lifetime” experiences should be done.  No question, otherwise, you will live with regret.  Once in a while, I get a free pass for a “do-over” but not often.

Second guessing will always happen.  But do not overthink it.  Go with your best instincts.  I think I know myself well enough to do this.  And you will too, once you have enough experience.

I will add a few of my own suggestions.

In each city or town, pick one activity or tour that will be your focus.  Then plan everything else around it.  Often, it is best to go with no plan at all.  Either way, you can’t lose unless you choose an event or venue with limited tickets, like the Grammy Awards, or the Wimbledon Finals.

Solo travel also works out well at popular dining venues.  I can always find a seat at the bar.  But I try to limit my drinks to two, since I may need to navigate my way back to my hotel in a different city or town.

This trip, currently, has a two-fold purpose.  One, I am using the bulk of my frequent flyer miles for the pond hopping portion of the trip.  And two, I am fairly certain it will be my last trip to Europe.  I have too many other places I want to visit.

Whatever you do, keep traveling, and do not be afraid to go solo!

I land in Paris on Wednesday, and head to Athens to see my Greek brothers on Thursday.