Travel now not tomorrow

  The town of Hydra rises steeply from the port like an amphitheatre. The higher homes sit precipitously as though they could roll down into the sea. Narrow lanes and cobbled staircases weave upwards occasionally providing staggering views of the sea and the Peloponnese. The steep geography of the island limits the use of motorised vehicles. A small ambulance can navigate the half-kilometre between the church hospital and the ferry port, and a rubbish truck sweeps through a small segment of the port area once a day. The lack of traffic contributes to a peacefulness. With no vehicle noise to interrupt thoughts or conversation, stress slips away. Every time I arrive, I feel my shoulders ease downward as I follow the donkey that carries my suitcase up through the ascending lanes. In summer, visitors flock to Hydra and fill the beaches, restaurants and cafes. In winter however, the beaches are silent and only a few cafes and restaurants are open. The daytime temperature wavers be...