Exploring the Enchanting Island of Rhodes with Friends

Day 9: A Night of Ancient Wonders and Modern Delights in Rhodes

Exploring Rhodes' historical Temple of Apollo, mesmerizing Sound & Light show, and vibrant nightlife with friends. A perfect final day!

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Farewell, Rhodes! A Day of Temples, Tales, and Tempting Tastes


As our Rhodian adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible memories we’ve made. Today was a perfect blend of historical exploration and modern-day enjoyment, a fitting end to our sun-soaked escapade. Rhodes, you’ve truly captivated my heart!

Our final day began with a delightful breakfast at La Terrazza. Though there seem to be several restaurants with that name, we enjoyed ours immensely with a beautiful view. Eating breakfast with a view of the Aegean is the perfect way to kickstart the day. I savored every bite of the fresh pastries and strong Greek coffee, fueling up for our morning exploration. Jihad always teases me about my need for caffeine in the morning, but honestly, a good cup of coffee is essential for a day of sightseeing!

Discover authentic Greek flavors at La Terrazza in Rhodes – where delicious food meets breathtaking views.
Discover authentic Greek flavors at La Terrazza in Rhodes – where delicious food meets breathtaking views.

With our stomachs full and spirits high, we headed to the Temple of Apollo Pythios. Located on the ancient Acropolis, the temple offered a glimpse into Rhodes' Hellenistic past. As I stood among the ruins, I imagined the ancient rituals and ceremonies that once took place here. The temple, dating back to the 3rd-1st century BC, was impressive with its Doric order and towering columns. It's amazing to think about how much history this island holds, layer upon layer of civilizations leaving their mark. The views from the Acropolis were simply breathtaking, stretching across the city and out to the sparkling sea. It was a bit windy, but the clear sky made for perfect photo opportunities. I made sure to snap plenty of pictures to show Lina when I get back home; she's fascinated by ancient history, and I know she'll love seeing the Temple of Apollo.

Discover the majestic Temple of Apollo Pythios, a historic monument in Rhodes that embodies ancient Greek culture and architectural beauty.
Discover the majestic Temple of Apollo Pythios, a historic monument in Rhodes that embodies ancient Greek culture and architectural beauty.

History is not a burden on the memory but an illumination of the soul.


After soaking up the ancient atmosphere, we decided to indulge in some authentic Greek cuisine for lunch. Peskesi Greek Cuisine came highly recommended, and it did not disappoint! The restaurant had a charming ambiance, and the menu was filled with traditional dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. I opted for the grilled octopus, a Rhodian specialty, while my friends tried the seafood risotto and the Greek salad. Everything was absolutely delicious, bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection. It felt like a true culinary journey, a taste of the real Greece. The restaurant's name, Peskesi, means a gift or offering, and that's exactly what the meal felt like – a gift of Greek tastes and memories. We lingered over our lunch, savoring each bite and enjoying the lively atmosphere of the restaurant. I even tried a glass of local wine, a crisp white that perfectly complemented the seafood. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of these dishes back home in Toronto; Jihad and Lina would love them!

Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Peskesi in Rhodes - a culinary delight with locally sourced ingredients and warm hospitality.
Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Peskesi in Rhodes - a culinary delight with locally sourced ingredients and warm hospitality.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to the Municipal Garden for the Sound & Light show. This was something I had been particularly looking forward to, and it exceeded all expectations. The show is a dramatic retelling of Rhodes' history, using lights, music, and sound effects to bring the past to life. As the story unfolded, the ancient walls of the Medieval Town served as a stunning backdrop, enhancing the immersive experience. The show narrated the struggles between the Knights of Saint John and the Turkish army, a pivotal moment in Rhodes' history. The blend of vibrant lights and stereophonic sound created a truly captivating spectacle, a drama without actors, as some have described it. It was both entertaining and educational, offering a unique perspective on the island's rich heritage.

Experience the magical fusion of nature and technology at the Sound & Light Park in Rhodes, where enchanting displays create unforgettable memories.
Experience the magical fusion of nature and technology at the Sound & Light Park in Rhodes, where enchanting displays create unforgettable memories.

After the show, with the night still young, we decided to check out STAY Bar Rhodes for a final drink. The bar had a lively and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a last hurrah. We sipped on cocktails, reminiscing about our favorite moments from the trip and sharing stories. The bar was buzzing with locals and tourists alike, creating a vibrant and cosmopolitan vibe. I even tried a homemade lemonade, which was incredibly refreshing and the perfect end to a long day. STAY Bar seems to be popular, and it's easy to see why – great drinks, friendly staff, and a fantastic atmosphere. It was the perfect place to say goodbye to Rhodes, a final toast to an unforgettable adventure.

Discover the vibrant culinary scene at STAY Bar Rhodes, where delicious bistro fare meets exquisite cocktails in a stunning atmosphere.
Discover the vibrant culinary scene at STAY Bar Rhodes, where delicious bistro fare meets exquisite cocktails in a stunning atmosphere.

As I packed my bags, I couldn’t help but feel a tinge of sadness. Nine days had flown by, filled with sunshine, history, and laughter. Rhodes had exceeded all my expectations, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. From the ancient ruins to the stunning beaches, from the delicious cuisine to the vibrant nightlife, this island has something for everyone. Traveling with my friends made the experience even more special, sharing these incredible moments and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

I’m already looking forward to planning my next adventure, perhaps somewhere closer to home, exploring more of Canada with Jihad and Lina. But Rhodes will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the beauty, history, and warmth of the Greek islands.

Until next time, Rhodes. Efharisto!

Tomorrow, I'll be heading back to Toronto, filled with memories and souvenirs to share. It's always bittersweet to leave a place you've fallen in love with, but I know I'll carry a piece of Rhodes with me, always. Back to reality and my role as Marketing Coordinator, but with a refreshed spirit and plenty of stories to tell. And who knows, maybe one day I'll return to this enchanting island and create even more unforgettable memories.
Go to day 8 Sun, Sea, and Serenity: Discovering Rhodes' Coastal Gems
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Exploring the Enchanting Island of Rhodes with Friends

Discover the charm of Rhodes with friends: from ancient ruins and sun-kissed beaches to vibrant local culture and luxurious stays.

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Meet this Featured Explorer

Fatima El Khoury
  • Occupation icon Occupation: Marketing Coordinator
  • Country icon Country: Canada
  • Age icon Age: 38

Ahlan wa Sahlan! I'm Fatima, a Lebanese expat living in Toronto. As a marketing coordinator, wife, and mother, life can get pretty hectic. That's why I cherish every opportunity to explore new places and cultures with my family. My blog, Evendo, is a way for me to share my travel experiences, tips, and unique perspective as someone who has lived in two very different worlds. I hope to inspire you to embark on your own adventures, whether it's a weekend getaway or a cross-continental journey. Follow along as I share my stories and insights, blending my Lebanese heritage with my Canadian life.

Interests:
  • Cultural festivals
  • Middle Eastern cuisine
  • Interior design
  • Photography
  • Learning new languages
More about Fatima El Khoury

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