My nephew Charles Peck wanted to spend his birthday in Europe with his best friends.  While none were available in October; Aliki, Dave, Steve & Charlie decided to venture to Greece and Turkey in August matching everyone's vacation schedules.  I was lucky to tag along.

Athens was less interesting then I expected.  The ruins were fascinating, but the city was less so as a tourist (first nine photos).

I met up with the gang in Santorini, one of the Cyclades.  What a stunning island.  Aliki is Greek, so our access to the people and food was greatly enhanced.  We rented a three bedroom villa with two terraces in the cave style which is indigenous to the island.  Great food, perfect weather and big personalities highlighted our stay on this, one of the most beautiful of Greek Isles (next six photos).

Steve, Charlie & I then went on to Istanbul.  I am in love with Istanbul (or Constantinople if I am speaking with Aliki).  It is all so exotic and approachable at the same time.  The Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Spice Market, our private boat ride on the Bosphorus, the food, the very kind and gregarious residents, all left indelible impressions.  I highly recommend this town.