Randy and Katy Smelser

Americans living in Germany but citizens of heaven

Santorini: 25th Anniversary Trip -2
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Santorini was once a round single volcano island - maybe lost Atlantis?

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When the volcano blew in 1600 BC water rushed in a formed the "Caldera".

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The remaining island was covered with up to 50 m (165 ft) of white ash.

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Other places are covered with lava rock.

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The water is crystal clear.

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The water is crystal clear.

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The volcano is still active but has not erupted since 1950.

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The island to the west was the original volcano that reappeared around 100 AD

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The Caldera is lined with cliffs with harbors only for small boats.

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Many cruise ships come but must park out in the Caldera and ...

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...small tenders pick up the passengers.

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From the little harbor up to the city is 225 m (730 ft)

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There are steps up.

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One alternative is to ride the donkeys.

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In Fira there is also the cable cars.

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Although we enjoyed visiting Fira...

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…our favorite place was Oia (Fira is on the cliff at the extreme right)

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Oia has two small harbors, one is only for private boats.

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Ammoudi Harbor can be reached by car,bus,boat,donkey or steps.

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Some of the old cave houses have not been renovated into hotels but most have.

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Oia is known for the white walls and blue domed churches...

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…and narrow streets and steps.

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Oia

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Oia

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Oia

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The remains of the Venetian Fortress.

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Oia

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Oia

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Oia

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Oia

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Oia

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Oia

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Oia

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Oia is best known for the sunset.

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Oia and the sunset is...

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listed as one of the "1000 Places to See Before You Die"

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Sunset from Oia

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You can really enjoy the sunset if you can get those tourist out of the way.

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Sunset from Oia

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Sunset from Oia

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Sunset over the Caldera from Oia.