Drifting into a semi-concious sleep-state whilst riding the bus in my NorthWest London neighbourhood the other day - I woke up to find myself in Athens. A city readying itself once again for the Olympic Games. Having never been here before - it was difficult to compare the “before and after” situation that this place has presumably been undergoing lately - but it was fascinating nevertheless to (literally) snapshot the current state.

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One thing that was very apparent was the emphasis on security. Greek Police and Army are everywhere.

Private cars have been discouraged (and even banned) from the central area of Athens for the duration of the games - the authorities encouraging the use of the public transport system: metro, trams and buses. All the major road arteries through the centre of town between the Airport, Olympic Village and the new Stadium have got dedicated “Olympic” lanes for “official Olympic traffic”.

The new Olympic Stadium (and associated stadia) are completed and ready - for what promises to be an historic occasion. Although there are still many signs of ongoing construction and city-cleansing all around town.

The leader comment editorial of the local Athens newspaper - “Kathimerini” provides a fascinating insight into how Athens and Athenians view themselves, their history and and their responsibilities with regards to these Olympic Games.

The ruins of the magnificent Acropolis proudly presides over this ancient city - providing a most spectacular backdrop to a place that has been - and will forever be - studied by billions of people for many generations to come.