RHODES

The view of Rhodes from our veranda is stunning. Since we are the only cruise ship in the harbor, the island is uncrowded and delightful. We drove first to Kamiros, a city that is called "little Pompeii" because of its remarkable ruins. The city flourished from about the 5th C BC until earthquakes felled it in the 2nd C AD. The Agora, Acropolis, and ancient houses are beautifully excavated,and the hillside smells of fresh oregano and lavender.
Then we headed to Philerimos, and the church of Our Lady, the restored monastery, and the barrel-vaulted Chapel of St. George with 15th century frescoes. Peacocks are considered to be acred. They abound on the mountain, all honking and strutting about. The peahens wriggle in the dirt making nests for their eggs; the males spread their tails and blink their eyes. Amazingly, the butt end of the male is as interesting and beautiful as the frontal display. Check it out!