Soaking wet, we managed to get to the very top of the hill. While walking up, all we saw was mostly the ground and wet pavement. Finally, we stopped and turned around. At that moment, the clouded sky, the rain and our tiredness didn’t matter. Thessaloniki was in front of us in all its grace and glory. The sky, merged with the sea, was a splendid background for white houses contrasting with red roofs. We were in Ano Poli, or simply the Old Town.
Busy, loud and bustling, the Greek Market was a hidden treasure of Thessaloniki for us. It was full of all kinds of things: juicy olives, huge octopi, prawns, calamari, fresh meat, fruits, vegetables and spices from all over the world. A paradise for gourmets. Although we spent there just a few minutes, those minutes were as juicy and rich as the black olives shining in the sun.
Greece greeted us with a clouded sky, friendly people and a cerulean sea. Even though the weather wasn’t perfect for a walk, we left our luggage in the hotel and began to explore the city.
The reason we came to Greece is the 14th Thessaloniki Film Festival. Thanks to Melody Gilbert (a filmmaker “FrozenFeetFilms” and a JMC professor at my university), we had a chance not only to attend the screenings of various films, but also to talk to the directors and producers of these movies. The magic of cinematography wasn’t behind the curtain for us anymore. We had watched more than 10 films in 4 days, talked to so many fascinating people: directors, producers, actors and distributors. And walked several miles!
Going from one movie theater to another, we truly enjoyed the beautiful city of Thessaloniki in between screenings. Its gallant European streets, bustling markets and ubiquitous pastry shops mesmerized us to the very core. And the sea… Oh, that never-ending, magnificent sea…
More to come.
Igo My Way 