I have never been great with directions. When people talk about taking 59 up to the 357 and driving down until they hit Keystone, then following it down to easy street, I just kind of nod my head and pretend like I know what they’re talking about. It takes me an entire semester to get comfortable with my route to class, and by that time, it’s time to learn another route. And yet, it’s been surprisingly easy to get used to the streets of Parikia, despite the streets being built specifically to be confusing.
The streets were designed with pirate attacks in mind, their winding, twisting paths meant to make finding ones’ way around town a nightmare to the ordinary outsider. Combined with the vantage point and defensive structure of the Frankish Castle, the city is well-defended against invaders. It would stand to reason that the average tourist would also get lost along their way, and people like me would be left sobbing in the corner of their rooms. However, with a bit of patience, it isn’t too difficult to figure them out.
For those of you considering a trip to Paros, I would recommend just walking around the first day. While that may be a bit intimidating, as long as you can find a landmark near to your hotel/home/wherever you are staying, and where it is in relation to the main road, you can always find your way back. Unlike in the States, where there are dozens of major roads in a small area, in Paros, there’s typically one major road, with many minor roads that branch out. If you can find the main road (which isn’t too difficult to find), you can find your way back home.
While you’re out walking, try to pick out landmarks, like churches, staircases, specific shops, and other things. These will help break up your route into smaller pieces, rather than trying to remember the entire route at once. Worst case scenario, you get lost for a few minutes in one of the most picturesque locations in the world.
All in all, the stay I’ve had in Paros has been amazing, and though I’ve only been here a week and some change, I’ve already managed to get used to the layout as if it was home.
Written by Bryan Keefe