It's all Greek to me...

Yesterday, hubby and I went to Tarpon Springs, which is one of my favorite towns in the Tampa Bay area. Tarpon Springs is world famous for their role in the natural sponge market. The quaint little town was once known as the "Sponge Capital of the World". However, the reason I love this charming area is because it transports you to another place...Greece! In the early 1900s, Greek divers settled in Tarpon Springs to participate in the sponge trade. Today, the streets are lined with Greek restaurants, bakeries, markets, and specialty shops. Sounds of the Greek language and music fill the air.

(The sponge docks -- the monument is of a sponge diver.)

(We enjoyed a delicious lunch of Greek salad, fresh bread, and olive oil at Pantheon.)



(My favorite place for dessert is Hella's bakery. The little shop is filled with several cases of delicious pastries and serves a variety of coffees.)

(Sometimes hubby and I get several pastries to share, but we were both in the mood for Italian cannoli. I think I could eat cannoli every single day.)

(I had no idea Fisher-Price sold Greek speaking toys.)



(Boats coming in full of fresh sponges.)


(Stacks of starfish in the market.)


(Sponges of every shape and size are available in the Sponge Exchange.)



(The Greek language is everywhere.)

(A beautiful tile mosaic depicting the town's heritage.)

Tarpon Springs is also the best place in the area for finding Greek products. I love browsing the little shops filled with homemade soaps made of goat's milk and beauty products containing olive oil. The markets are also wonderful for finding Greek grocery items, such as Greek wines, olives, feta cheese, and spices. I stocked up on Greek olive oil and Greek coffee.

Someday I hope to visit Greece, but in the meantime Tarpon Springs is the next best thing!