Centerline Goes to the Olympics:
An Amateur Rider's Journal by Maureen Crump

Day 6: PLAKA

This is a day of rest for riders, horses, and spectators. Special day is tomorrow. This afternoon I explored the Plaka. This is what would be called the "old town" part of the city. It is narrow streets filled with stores and cafes. For the Olympics this has become party town central. The narrow streets are filled with revelers until the early hours. Here we can sample Greek food, music, and dance.

The best part of the Olympic experience is talking with the peoples of many nations. As I travel about to the venues or wander through the Plaka everyone is eager to strike up a conversation and say where they are from and how they are enjoying the Olympics.

I have talked to a German family all the way back during the train ride from the equestrian venue. I have met Iranians and Bulgarians. Someone from Brazil gave me directions in the Plaka. The British are always happy to strike up a conversation. In the stands at the equestrian venue a Dane asked me how we like having Kennedy.

The Dutch are always talkative and are here at all the venues in great number (dressed in orange). I have talked to many Italians. I think this type of global interaction makes such a difference for the future. One on one, we are not so different.