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Athens in August

Since the 1600s, world travellers have been arriving in Athens on voyages of discovery. In search of ancient sites and monuments, the Greek world of antiquity is almost as visible today as it was in the 17th Century.  The revival of the Olympic Games in Athens in 1896, makes the Athens 2004 Olympic Games a very special event for the Greeks and an historic opportunity for visitors.

The 2004 Olympic Games runs August 13-29 and the weather promises to be wonderful with temperatures around 31C. If your not going to the Games but want to be there for the party, be aware that to date nearly 2 million tickets have been sold, swelling the citys population by 1.5 million people. Easing the crowding, some 40% of Athenians have said they will be leaving the city during the Games.

For getting there, the best advice seems to be: take the most affordable route. Contrary to expectations, hotel rooms should be available in the city in August. Book now and you should be able to be accommodated.

With an air of Olympian excitement, this 5,000-year-old city will be buzzing. And there s so much to see. As a city of hills, Athens offers great walks and views. From the Acropolis to Lykavittos, criss-cross the city and see the worlds oldest flea market off Monastiraki Square, or experience the ancient heart of commerce, politics and worship at the Agora and Temple of Hephaestus. Use the metro system and you will see archaeological treasures displayed in many stations. Winding down with early evening shopping promises a real treat along central Ermou Street conveniently near dining locations such as Kolonaki Square, Tsokalof Street and Milleni Street. Get up early on Sunday morning and visit the ancient Acropolis Temple (8.30am-2.30pm) and a walk in the National Park before lunch.

You may of course be doing none of this, tempted like many others travellers by the athletic achievements of your national team on display at the Olympic Games!

Fly from Beijing: Round-trip tickets cost in the region of 8,800 yuan (excluding taxes) in the first and second week of August, flying with Lufthansa Airlines via Frankfurt. Contact the Hong Kong China International Travel Agency, 6th Fl. Oriental Plaza, East Chang An Avenue. Tel: +86 010 8518-3131