Take a step back in time when you arrive at the dock to be greeted by donkeys...not taxis; when you don’t set an alarm on your mobile device because the roosters will tell you when it’s daybreak. OK, so there IS cellular service on this charmingly idyllic island. But there are roosters and they do crow at daybreak. And cats -- lots of cats. The island is car-free which lends itself to evoke the bygone days of seafaring traders. Hydra (Hee-dra) actually has a long and strong military history. As for the stars themselves (donkeys), it’s not uncommon to see appliances such as washers and dryers strapped to donkeys who’ll bear your burden of hauling heavy items yourself.
A two hour ferry ride from Athens, Hydra is a reprieve from your sightseeing schedule. Time to recharge.
By the boat dock, flanked by three flags: flag of Hydra, Greek flag, and the European Union flag.
Surf and Turf: Arrive by boat and since there are no cars, donkeys are waiting for jobs to haul your luggage to your apartment or hotel.
Donkey and its handler.
Beasts of burden they are. Their jobs are not limited to being baggage porters; they can haul large appliances such as refrigerators and stoves on their backs.
As soon as you leave the harbor, you’ll have fun losing yourself in the tangle of twisting streets but you will never actually get lost.
Oh, and there are stairs too - my favorite.
Hydra's picturesque harbor.
Old military defenses.
Santorini cats. Lots of them. Everywhere.