When we visited Crete and other Greek islands and the mainland of this country, we noticed that there was so much grafitti and actually witnessed a fight where three boys attacked a fourth boy. There is apparently unemployment among young people who can be finished with school at age 15. Not all complete a full high school education, and it seems that this age might be doing the grafitti. When asked, the locals seem to be in denial that there is a problem. We wondered?????
The Aegean Sea is a beautiful blue, and the harbors of these small islands have scenery that is breath taking. It is a delight to see the colorful houses, crowded together and built up the hill sides. Many views of the villages and sea are afforded to anyone who is willing to hike about.
The Greek people are very friendly and helpful, especially if you try to speak their language. Beer is pronounced bier. So, I did just fine. You hear the legends or Greek mythological stories, and they seem to come alive in these islands.
Turkey is much cleaner with little grafitti and very friendly people who frequently speak some English. Apparently English is taught in school, and lots of kids go by on field trips and say hi or hello and love to have their pictures taken and shake your hand. Our few words of Turkish are appreciated, and the smiles we receive in return either mean that we horribly mispronounced, or that they were pleased that we tried, or more likely both.
We find the Turkish are trying to balance religion and keep their current government secular. We have learned much about Muslim customs and how the religion is practiced since our guide is himself Muslim. He has increased our understanding exponentially.
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