Paros is a dream, and I think I could live here forever. The weather is wonderful, if blazingly hot. The ocean is beautiful, its refreshing breeze carrying across the city. The food is cheap and delicious, and I can walk to a dozen excellent restaurants from the villa.
A lot of buildings, especially in residential areas, are similar white blocky shapes with blue accents. It provides a very unified aesthetic, and the white paint would absorb less heat than other colors. It also looks incredible against the sweet blues of the sky, or the vibrant, deep blues and greens of the sea.
The food is really good, and eating out with my friends is a lot of fun! We have been cooking at the villa sometimes, too, but usually that’s a solitary thing. We have had some group meals where a few people would cook for everyone, though! It’s so fulfilling to feed everyone.
The weather is bright and hot, which is intense, but it’s also consistent. I don’t have to cart around a jacket for when I go inside, because there’s rarely air-conditioning (though when it is encountered, it’s sorely welcome), and there’s often a sweet sea breeze or big white fan to move the air around.
The schoolwork is interesting. I like going out to shoot video and interview people. We’ve been all over Paros to speak to everyone from shopkeepers to charity presidents.
I’ve also, for whatever reason, felt a LOT more confident here. I can’t explain it, but I feel like a new woman, and I’m happy and content.
Except when a mosquito gets in my room.
Alyssa Welch