I’m in Athens where I’m having a hard time following my sight-seeing agenda because I just want to walk around and see things like this precious Byzantine church which is between an H&M, a TGI Fridays and a dude pimping energy drinks.

What Athens also has is cats.

So obviously I have to stop and pet to the cats and tell them they’re good citizens.

This morning I got out early to see the Acropolis because I heard it could get crowded and I wanted to be the first in line. Well, I was first in line until this little line jumper cut in front of me.

After walking the Acropolis, I sat on a bench to rest my feet, and this creature immediately lap-trapped me. Since she was quite settled in and doing some intensive kneading and purring, I thought that would be a good time to get eat my picnic. A few bites in I realized the cat had transitioned to drooling all over my coat, and I only managed to escape by tossing a piece of cheese for her to run after.

My dinner was cat-free and delicious—greens swimming in olive oil and grilled sardines. (You must recall I’m as fond of Mediterranean food as I am of cats.

How I got to Athens: flight from Chicago.

Where I slept: Amalia Hotel.  Price: €118 for a single. Recommended: yes