Here I am, on a beautiful Greek Island called Rhodes that is famous for its giant statue of Colossus at its harbour.
Colossus is no longer around following his demise by an earthquake, but the island has still plenty of attractions, including its own Acropolis at the ancient city of Lindos.
But what really struck me was the happy go lucky attitude of the people of this island.
The world hears that Greece is a basket case, and it is.
But just as we in Australia say it’s a Canberra problem, here they say the problem is in Syntagma Square – Constitution Square in the middle of Athens where the Greek parliament is located.
Greece may have given the world democracy – rule of the people, by the people, for the people – but since World War II it has been unable to produce politicians who have vision for the country.
Far from it: many are in politics here to line their own pockets or to further their power bases.
My brother Takis who lives here Rhodes and is a keen student of politics tells me the current PM, Alex Tsipras is a good bloke who is being white anted by those who wish to maintain the status quo – that is the embedded corruption and nepotism of a rotten system.
But on the islands, and a substantial part of Greece is made up of islands like Crete, Rhodes and Mykonos, the people are doing well despite Syntagma Square.
And the island is truly beautiful, offering beaches with crystal clear water, five star hotels and great local food.
It’s just a pity it’s part of a country run up until now by scoundrels.
