Today IBIP got the chance to explore the inner city center of Thessaloniki, Greece. Although the American Farm School is beautiful, everyone loved the chance to explore the downtown area of the second largest city in Greece. The group spent time exploring downtown Thessaloniki and immersing ourselves in the urban culture of modern Greece. IBIPers, as we call ourselves endearingly, were able to taste the wonderful culinary art known as gyros. They are so much better than the American version. The fact that they were made with fresh ingredients and rotisserie pork encouraged us to consider the differences in fast food cultures between America and Greece.

We went on to spend time exploring sights of the local marketplace of Thessaloniki. Within the open air market, we were able to see all of the different kinds of fish and produce that Greeks commonly purchase and consume. It was amazing seeing the merchants and customers interact with one another as though they were good friends.

Later in the afternoon, we were able to take a boat tour along the bay of downtown Thessaloniki where they served refreshing, authentic Greek coffee such as espressos and frappes that we all enjoyed greatly as the boat made its way along the beautiful shore line of the city. We learned that our Mt Olympus and Thessaloniki tour guide, Kostas, is a famous singer/songwriter in Greece and he serenaded us with one of his famous songs as we sailed along. After the tour, we did a quick stop at the statue of Alexander the Great for some photos.

Our day ended with a visit to a pastry and gelato shop where we indulged in delicious sweets. Overall IBIPers enjoyed a wonderful day full of beautiful Greek culture. This was a phenomenal end to our experience in Greece.