“so that you will behave properly toward outsiders and not be in any need”
Well just to make clear we did not decide upon Thessaloniki as a result of St Paul’s exhortations to the Thessalonians,but because of its reputation as a hospitable and historic city. Furthermore, researches beyond the New Testament convinced us that the nearby town of PEREA and its beaches might be the best base. After four days here, including a day in Thessaloniki, it is proving to be worthwhile research.
After a “ Silly O’ Clock” departure from Birmingham, easy passage through security , we arrived at our apartment in PEREA at 12.30. After some confusion about finding the keys, we climbed the stairs and quickly took stock – the three balconies looked great.
A light lunch in an impressive local bakery and walk down to the beach.
PEREA
The origin of settlement in Peraia was the arrival of 740 refugees from Asia Minor and Eastern Thrace in 1923, as a result of the Greco-Turkish War (1919–22).
Today Peraia, together with the other suburbs of Thermaikos, forms one of the most rapidly developing suburbs of Thessaloniki. Wikipedia
Also,PEREA from the Greek: peran (Iordanou) [“beyond Jordan”]. District on the east side of the Jordan river whose northern border was south of Pella in the Decapolis … Not sure if there is any connection between the two.
“Perea has changed a lot since 1923 when the first residents (refugees from Asia Minor and Thrace) settled. Perea it has changed from a small refugee town into a beautiful city with the features of a tourist destination that does not need to envy the other more promoted regions in Greece.At a distance of just 15 km from the “MAKEDONIA” International Airport and 20 km from the centre of the city of Thessaloniki. Perea is an easily accessible destination for visitors who want to enjoy beaches with crystal clear blue waters, fresh fish, seafood and traditional dishes, and ouzo appetizers with the local tsipouro drink and wine or their coffee, literally on the beach with a view of the Thermaikos Gulf and the city of Thessaloniki.
The traditional stroll along the beach is a unique experience. Abundant cultural and sporting events are an attraction, especially during the summer months with the characteristic “bicycle ride” that is organised every summer by the Municipal sports centre, with visitors of all ages participating daily. With a rich tradition in terms of the sea, the residents in the region have established two sailing clubs, NORTH and TORONEO, whose members have participated in both Greek and International regattas.The School of Macedonian Tourism Professions has been based in Perea since 1974 and has a significant impact on the development of tourism in the region.”
There is some overstatement in the above article! You could not call it either beautiful,nor a city – but it is an excellent beach resort and the promenade is a great feature.
The tradition for hiring sunbeds and parasols is unique in our experience. Often advertised as “ free” what happens is that you choose your beds, table & shade – we then paid €5.00 each and that included a drink and a bottle of ice cold water – my kind of tradition – for the day.
“So then, brethren, stand firm and hold to the traditions which you were taught by us, either by word of mouth or by letter” (2 Thess. 2:15).
One of the attractions of an apartment is the flexibility it gives – no timetable and the opportunity to both eat out locally and shop locally… and to cook at home, BBQs being a particular favourite.
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