Another day brought another Greek island (Chios), with another tender boat ride (Chios Town). We met tour guide Kostas, arranged by Karlos Way Tours, and he took excellent care of us. Among other places, we visited the scenically-sited chapel of Agios Isidoros of Sykiada. May 14 is the day that locals honor their patron saint, so I knew it would be memorable. We also visited the "painted village" of Pyrgi, an authentic 14th C? 16th C? village of buildings with facades etched with cement & volcanic sand (xysta). The whole village had this "xysta" design. Chios Island has many trees that produce mastic, a resin substance, and it's apparently used in many things. I passed on trying the mastic chewing gum due to traveling with a temporary bridge in my mouth. But I eyed the mastic coffee & cookies. I had asked for a 4 hour private tour so as not to tire ourselves out too much or spend too much money, and Kostas (as well as Karlos Way Tours) went above and beyond to make the day memorable. I'm so glad Oceania decided to include this port in their roster of over 600 ports. To me, it's definitely a keeper. This was one of my favorite days on what turned out to be an excellent cruise.

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