An even briefer visit to Paros

I stuck to the main town of Parikia during my single day on Paros. Wander the alleys and shop for all sorts of touristy items. There's a nice little park in the center with benches handy for when you're scarfing a gyro or writing your postcards. Take a turn by the ruins of the Temple of Athena and the blue-domed church on the Frankish Kastro. They aren't too impressive, but the bougainvillea is nice.

Quick Tips:

The Internet café called Memphis.net charges 1€ for 16 minutes, enough time to email mom and dad. There's a travel agency on every corner to buy your ferry ticket outta here.

Best Way To Get Around:

For Parikia, just your feet will do.

Recommended to me by my new friend Despina on Naxos, I got off the ferry in Parikia, immediately spotted the sign "Arian," and followed the proprietress on a short walk down the waterfront and a few blocks down the street to a lovely family-run hotel. I paid 25€ for a night in a private room with a bath, TV, and A/C, as well as a balcony. This friendly hotel is within walking distance of everything in Parikia.

I noticed that this restaurant was just a block or so from my hotel, and since all the town drunks had harassed me earlier in the main square, I decided I'd stick close to home. Besides, it was in my Lonely Planet, so it couldn't be too bad, right? Wrong! I do have to say that the cook was one of the nicest guys I met in Greece and only wanted to please. He was so nice that I managed to choke down about half of my dinner (with copious amounts of water). Although my selections looked quite appetizing, they were so bland and mushy that I could hardly swallow.