"Athens..... My hometown....." a Athens Travel Page by GeoDenia

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DESTINATION FACTS

Country: Greece
Population: 5.000.000
Time Zone: GMT/UTC +2 hours
Telephone area code: 210

Athens has a typically Mediterranean climate. In July and August, the mercury can soar to 40°C in the shade, but relief can found in the meltemi, a strong northerly wind that sometimes sweeps the eastern coast of mainland Greece. The wind, caused by air pressure differences between North Africa and the Balkans, plays havoc with everything from ferry schedules to hair-dos. Rain starts up around mid-October, and the weather stays damp and chilly until February, though there are winter days with clear skies and sunshine. It also snows occasionally.

With thousands of years of history and mythology under its belt, Athens - named for the olive-tree-loving Athena (goddess of wisdom) - is more than a concrete jungle. It's an affable city enlivened by outdoor cafes, pedestrian streets, parks, gardens and characters aplenty. If you get into the spirit of things, you might not even notice the layer of smog hanging overhead.

Though its streets buzz with a unique and chaotic blend of east and west, the city once known as the 'Paris of the Mediterranean' is experiencing something of a European renaissance. As EU-driven modernisation and preparations for the 2004 Olympics propel the city forward, there's a refreshing note of optimism in the air. Add its recently built metro system and airport into the mix, and you've got an old Athens with a sparkling new sheen.

Just a few days left before the Opening Ceremony...

And ... YES, IT'S TRUE !!

I'm a proud olympic volunteer and I'm the one of those 700 who will be in the stadium and will be part of the great party.

If you don't manage to be there by yourselves then watch it on TV. On 13/8 20:30 (+02:00 GMT)

DON'T MISS IT !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!