Happily the Via Egnatia is in much evidence on my journey towards Alexandroupolis. A section of Roman bridge building came first then well signposted 'Via Egnatia' ancient road sections - easily accessed from the secondary road in the Zonian hillside pass. Detailed information boards explained the history too. It was most encouraging to step onto that old 'highway'. To even imagine a horse and chariot (as depicted on the signs) racing through!
Paul from Poitiers in France (where else!) chats in English about his travels. Over the last 5 months he has journeyed clockwise through the UK, the Baltic countries (in Lithuania at temperatures down to -20C), the Eastern European countries and now through the Balkan peninsular on his way home to Poitiers!!
Something which becomes noticeable travelling at a relatively slow pace is the regularity of towns. Based on 45 to 60kms Roman marching pace the towns evolved : Kavala, Xanti, Komotini, Alexandroupoli and all those that went before. Maybe the flavour in these parts is more Byzantine but the Roman 'principles' still apply.
Mote reliable than Albania, the Greek postal system successfully delivers a wonderful surprise card to my beach accommodation in Alexandroupolis. Thank you Sandra, handwriting still has a special personal value. I am sure someone in Albania enjoyed the Welsh cakes!
Apostolis, the owner of the beach hotel reminds me that it is the 1st May and the Greeks will be out in numbers. He has a friendly little dog called Rudi!
A day free in Alexandroupolis before heading into Turkey tomorrow.
Paul from Poitiers in France (where else!) chats in English about his travels. Over the last 5 months he has journeyed clockwise through the UK, the Baltic countries (in Lithuania at temperatures down to -20C), the Eastern European countries and now through the Balkan peninsular on his way home to Poitiers!!
Something which becomes noticeable travelling at a relatively slow pace is the regularity of towns. Based on 45 to 60kms Roman marching pace the towns evolved : Kavala, Xanti, Komotini, Alexandroupoli and all those that went before. Maybe the flavour in these parts is more Byzantine but the Roman 'principles' still apply.
Mote reliable than Albania, the Greek postal system successfully delivers a wonderful surprise card to my beach accommodation in Alexandroupolis. Thank you Sandra, handwriting still has a special personal value. I am sure someone in Albania enjoyed the Welsh cakes!
Apostolis, the owner of the beach hotel reminds me that it is the 1st May and the Greeks will be out in numbers. He has a friendly little dog called Rudi!
A day free in Alexandroupolis before heading into Turkey tomorrow.
Interesting.... good to see you have shared some stories. Dog called Rudi. ha ha.... almost done then!! xxx
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