Thessaloniki: We're Not in Kansas Anymore?
by Kelli R. , Salt Lake City
“I've got a feeling we're not in Kansas anymore.” Dorothy, I couldn’t put it better myself.
This famous phrase has come to mind several times throughout my 10 week internship here in Thessaloniki.
Admittedly, my first weekend in the city I wasn’t completely thrilled to go out and meet the Greeks, the few impressions I had of them had been made during the morning commute- and to put it mildly Greek driving is terrifying! The alternative was to take public transportation and, of course, I missed my bus, along with the two girls running behind me. The girls, late for an appointment, asked if I’d share a taxi with them, so into the cab I jumped with my newfound friends. Once downtown the girls showed me around, taking me to such famous sights as the White Tower, Aristotle Square and their high school. Further excursions into the city have only shown me more of the hospitable nature of Greeks, willing to bend over backwards to help.
Thessaloniki knows how to party. Folks are walking and talking on the streets at all hours, many a weekend I have looked out my window and seen someone coming home at 4 am. Carnival in Thessaloniki was incredible, all the streets were lit, stores decorated, music on, food out and the people in costume. I met 2 hippies, a smurf, and an angel, just to name a few. The best part was the Greek dancing, though fun all by itself, it is even more exciting with skeletons and monsters.
The city itself is incredible; with a bakery and donut stands on every corner; any diet I begin is immediately frustrated after a walk down Tsimiski. Shopping! It is amazing here, and I have spent more than a pretty penny on shoes. My favorite place to shop is the open markets. Everything imaginable is available here, whether you need a statue of the tower or want to watch your meat butchered. The rows are usually crammed with people, bargaining and buying. I love the energy and purposely plan my shopping so that I can pick up fresh fruits and vegetables here every weekend.
Lastly is the beauty of Thessaloniki. I cannot walk more than 2 blocks without being presented with some sort of ancient marvel. In one day I saw the ancient rotunda, the arch and palace of Galerius, walked along the coast and peeked into several Byzantine churches. Sometimes I am in awe of how old things are. How many people have walked on that floor? Can you imagine the kings and queens that must have visited this palace? What wars and parties has this arch seen?
Thessaloniki is an amazing city, a great place to spend 10 weeks abroad.
Though definitely not like my hometown, or Kansas, Thessaloniki has left me with an unforgettable experience.
