Dear Diary, Today was one of those days I will never forget. I woke up early in the small seaside town of Nafplio, Greece, feeling both excited and a little nervous. The air was warm and salty, carrying the scent of the Mediterranean Sea. I pulled aside the window curtain and looked out at the sparkling blue water, wondering what adventures awaited me. My first stop was the ancient fortress of Palamidi, perched high above the town. Climbing the steep stone steps, I couldn’t help but feel like I was walking through history. The fortress was built by the Venetians in the 18th century, and from up there, I could see the entire town below. Narrow cobblestone streets wound through whitewashed buildings with bright blue shutters. Small cafes dotted the coastline, and the boats bobbed gently in the harbor. It was like stepping into a postcard. As I wandered down from the fortress, I found myself in the heart of the old town. The streets were lively, filled with the sounds of laughter, music, and the clatter of dishes from outdoor tavernas. I stopped at a small shop that sold handmade jewelry and souvenirs. An older man, who introduced himself as Nikos, told me stories about Nafplio’s history—how it was once the first capital of modern Greece after independence from the Ottoman Empire. He explained that the town's charm came from its blend of ancient ruins and lively modern life. I bought a necklace with a tiny charm of the Greek flag as a keepsake. Later, I strolled along the waterfront, watching fishermen mend their nets and children playing soccer on the sandy beach. The sun was shining brightly, and I could feel the warmth on my skin. I sat on a bench and took out my notebook, jotting down everything I saw, heard, and felt. Greece’s scenery was breathtaking—craggy hills dotted with olive trees and cypress, white churches with onion-shaped domes, and the distant mountains framing the horizon. In the afternoon, I visited the Archaeological Museum of Nafplio. Inside, ancient artifacts told stories of the people who lived here thousands of years ago. I was especially fascinated by a marble statue of a young athlete and some pottery decorated with intricate patterns. It made me realize how much history is woven into every corner of Greece. As the day drew to a close, I found a cozy restaurant overlooking the sea. I ordered grilled octopus and Greek salad, savoring the flavors that were new to me but delicious. An elderly waiter told me about how Greeks love to gather in the evenings to share meals and stories, a tradition that continues to this day. I felt grateful to be here, experiencing Greece’s warm hospitality. Now, as I write this in my journal, I can’t help but feel a deep connection to this beautiful country. Greece’s history, culture, and natural beauty have captured my heart. Tomorrow, I plan to visit a nearby island and maybe explore some more ancient ruins. But for tonight, I will dream of the waves, the ancient stones, and the stories I’ve uncovered today. Goodnight, Greece. Thank you for your wonders. Sincerely, Emma

Answer the following questions based on the passage above.