Greece, widely known for its ancient art and culture, is increasingly becoming a hub for creative and award-winning international talents in contemporary industrial design. Stimulating, cutting-edge industrial design in Greece portrays diversity, creative evolution, modernity and, most importantly, humour. These are ten of the best contemporary product designers from Greece.

Thanos Karampatsos and Christina Kotsilelou are the inspired, humorous minds behind Greece is for Lovers. Since 2006 they have been passionately designing, producing and promoting novel, high-quality products that put a decidedly irreverent spin on Hellenic heritage. Located under Acropolis in the historical centre of Athens, Greece is for Lovers stubbornly fight the stereotypes of what is widely thought to be Greek along with the idea that ‘Greek people tend to take their culture very seriously’. Combining some of Greece’s spiciest ingredients, such as humour, irony, nonchalance and extravagance, these objects introduce a fresh breeze into contemporary product design. Among their products, which are eye-catching, innovative but deeply rooted in Greek tradition, a brown leather skateboard that incorporates Greek-style sandals into the board unquestionably stands out.

The multi-award-winning designer Constantinos Hoursoglou founded his multi-disciplinary studio in Athens in 2002 and since 2007 he has been productively working in Geneva. Both his Royal College of Art education and professional experience in Athens, London and New York play a key role in his uncompromising effort to foresee the chaotic changes in the world, while designing avant-garde but useful products. With aesthetics, technology and ecology in the spotlight of his creative work, Constantinos Hoursoglou is known for choosing great materials and inventive manufacturing methods. CHD studio provides wide-ranging services, such as graphic and exhibition design and product design and development and has participated – among others – in the St. Etienne Design Biennale and Salone Satellite.

To read more, please viist: The Culture Trip

The archaeological site of Philippi in Northern Greece has been inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List, which was announced during the 40th session of the World Heritage Committee in Turkey. Philippi’s addition on the World Heritage list brings the total of Greek world heritage sites to 18.

The remains of the walled city lie at the foot of an acropolis in the present-day region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, on the ancient route linking Europe and Asia, via the Egnatia.

Founded in 356 BC by the Macedonian King Philip II, the city developed as a “small Rome” with the establishment of the Roman Empire in the decades following the Battle of Philippi, in 42 BCE. The Hellenistic theatre and funerary heroon (temple) were supplemented with Roman buildings such as the forum. Later the city became a centre of the Christian faith following the visit of the Apostle Paul in 49-50 CE. The remains of its basilicas constitute an exceptional testimony to the early establishment of Christianity.

To read this article in full, please visit: Greek Travel Pages

Packing can be overwhelming especially if you are traveling lightly and unsure about the weather. Luckily, Greece in the summer is usually steady sunshine and warm days, but there are a few things to keep in mind when packing for the Greek Islands. Rebecca Hall from Life Beyond Borders shares her packing list and recommendations on what to bring!

T-Shirts and/or Tunics - Great for traveling and can be worn over leggings or even as a dress.

Flip Flops and Sandals - It's important to have one pair of beach shoes (flip flops) and a nicer pair of sandals for going out. Rebecca loves the Tea brand because they are great for walking up those steep and uneven cobbled lanes that the Greek islands are known for.

Several Swim Suits - As a good Greek will tell you, there's nothing worse than drying yourself in a wet swimsuit. All Greeks go to the beach with at least one change of swimwear.

All Purpose Dress - A light, cotton dress is perfect for day or evening wear. You can dress it up or down.

Sweater - Surprisingly, it can get cool at night on the islands. There's usually a breeze and when the sun goes down, you can definitely feel a chill in the air. Be sure to bring a light sweater if you plan on staying out at night.

The Greek islands are not just for visiting during the summer months. September and October, and even November, can be the best time of year to visit. Don't miss Rebecca's packing list for Autumn!

To read this article in full, please visit: Life Beyond Borders

Last week, Condé Nast Traveler (CNT) published the 2020 Readers' Choice Awards survey results. Folegandros, Zakynthos, Crete, and Mykonos, dominated the Europe list of the 35 World's Best Islands outside the United States.

For its 33rd Readers' Choice Awards, Condé Nast Traveler invited 600,000 travelers to an online vote for the Top Islands in 6 areas – Asia, Australia, & the South Pacific, the Caribbean & the Atlantic, Africa & the Indian Ocean, Europe, and North America.

The magazine's readers voted Folegandros as the best island in Europe! Folegandros is a remote island of unique natural beauty and a laid-back atmosphere that has become a favorite for those seeking an authentic Greek island experience.

"Craving Santorini's famous whitewashed houses and cobblestoned streets, but without all of the crowds? Look no further than Folegandros, Santorini's smaller neighbor to the northwest by some 40 miles, which has all that and more. During the day, visit the island's most famous monument, Chrysospiliá ("Golden Cave"); if it's remote beaches you're after, try Agios Georgios or Ambeli," CNT published.

To read this article in full, please visit: greekcitytimes.com

Alexandros Hand Made Chocolate is a fast-growing Greek company, producing fine quality chocolate products, with a history of 17 years. Constantly, investing in education and the pursuit of exceptional raw materials, the company has developed unique expertise in the industry, offering a wide range of original recipes that broaden the taste horizons of chocolate enthusiasts.

Following a specialized education in the field of chocolate confectionery and haute cuisine in Italy and France, Alexandros Dimitriou returned to Greece with a vision to highlight the complexity of chocolate flavors and aromas, by applying his studies, thus founding Alexandros Hand Made Chocolate in 1999.

With an uncompromising passion for high-quality results and a restless instinct for creation, Alexandros Hand Made Chocolate – a company developed with its own funds– is now a European standards industry producing and packaging chocolate products, with state-of-the-art equipment and employing highly trained staff. Moreover, it is worth mentioning that since 2002 the company has applied the process control system HACCP and is certified according to the ISO 22000 standards of quality assurance for all the stages of production.

The mission of Alexandros Hand Made Chocolate is to create high-quality products and develop original and unique quality recipes with complex yet balanced flavors. In pursuing this objective, Alexandros Hand Made Chocolate has developed high expertise, mastering the art of chocolate, thus becoming one of the top European companies in its industry.

The world’s earliest analog computer, the first robot in history, and the gods of Olympus; masterpieces of ancient Greek, Roman, Byzantine and contemporary art; plants and animals that live on the surface of the earth, in the vastness of the sky and in the depths of the ocean; and illusions that fool the mind and the eye: the museums of Athens can conjure up a magical world for young visitors, sparking their imagination. Tailored programs and tours take them on a journey of experiential learning through play.

Happy Trails

At the Acropolis Museum, children can follow different paths of exploration. Specially designed pamphlets for younger visitors highlight subject matter and difficulty levels suitable for different age groups. With these in hand, young explorers can discover the museum’s treasures while exercising their memory, using their imagination, and having fun. One trail, “The Parthenon Sculptures: Six Short Stories of Separation,” takes them to the Parthenon Gallery on the museum’s third floor, where they’ll find out more about what are arguably the most famous sculptures in the world. Through the stories of these masterpieces, they’ll learn how and why some became separated and where they are today.

The Origins Of Technology

Can a robot operate without batteries or electricity? Ancient musical instruments and toys, the ancient Greek “smart” home, an innovative wine jug, and an automaton puppet theater are some of the unique interactive exhibits at the Kotsanas Museum of Ancient Greek Technology. From the robotic “servant” of Philo of Byzantium to the mechanized puppet theater of Hero of Alexandria, and from the mechanical clock of Ctesibius to the world’s first analog computer, the Antikythera Mechanism, the technologies on display cover the period from 2000 BC to the end of the Ancient Greek era. The Kotsanas Museum features fully functional replicas of more than 400 inventions, many of which remain relatively unknown. Young visitors will be struck by the similarities between ancient innovations and the origins of modern technology. Ctesibius, Plato, Aristotle and other great minds are willing to share their secrets. Are you ready to join them?

Just An Illusion 

At the Museum of Illusions, nothing is what it seems. Here, anything can happen, and every visit is an exciting adventure that will leave children and parents alike wide-eyed in disbelief. You’ll watch yourself shrink, see double, experience holograms, and even… disappear! Through a series of illusions, visitors will learn that their senses can be fooled and that the world is full of visual percepts that appear to be at odds with reality. A stop here is sure to entertain museumgoers of all ages.

Herons, Butterflies, & Koalas

As they explore the fantastic collection of the Goulandris Natural History Museum, visitors learn about the reptiles of the world, from the Caretta caretta sea turtle to the Nile crocodile (there is even an accurate replica of a Triceratops), as well as 180 species of birds that nest in Greece, along with birds from Africa and Central America. In the museum’s entomological exhibition, they can admire butterflies and other species of insects from various countries, while the mammal collection includes the kangaroo, koala, lions, leopards, baboons, and giraffes. The botanical exhibition provides the perfect introduction to the plant kingdom. The museum also has halls dedicated to marine biology, featuring an impressive collection of shells from the Greek seas; paleontology, with characteristic samples of fossils; and geology, with an extensive collection of rocks and minerals. All exhibit descriptions are in Greek and English.

To read this article in full, please visiti: greece-is.com

Nestled within the tranquil embrace of Serifos Island, Greece welcomes its very first Zen Monastery, Kaisanji—a sanctuary where the timeless teachings of Zen Buddhism and the serenity of Greek landscapes converge to offer a transformative retreat experience.

An Ideal Location for Spiritual Reflection

Kaisanji finds its home on the picturesque island of Serifos, near the enchanting Kalo Ambeli beach. This idyllic setting boasts unobstructed views of the sea, gentle construction, and a distinctive natural beauty that makes it the perfect location for the establishment of a Zen monastery.

Kaisanji's essence transcends mere architecture; it's a testament to a profound vision. "Kai," meaning sea, "san," representing mountain, and "ji," symbolizing monastery, intertwine to form Kaisanji—"the monastery of the mountain and sea." This haven is more than just a place; it's a community, a spiritual journey, and a shared vision of oneness with all living beings.

Harmony with Nature: Architectural Design

At Kaisanji, every aspect of the architectural design is a reflection of the monastery's core principles—calmness, simplicity, and equilibrium with nature. Influenced by Japanese culture and the island's unique architecture, Kaisanji's design seamlessly integrates with its surroundings. Local natural materials like stone, reed, and wood intertwine with traditional Japanese elements, creating a harmonious blend of two architectural traditions.

Embracing Natural Elements

Water, a symbol of purity and tranquility, plays a central role in Kaisanji's design. From the Hato lake to the flowing stream that winds its way through the monastery, water elements enhance the sense of calmness and lead visitors on a journey of introspection. The Zen garden, with its circular pattern of rocks and pebbles, further enhances the meditative atmosphere, inviting guests to connect with nature and themselves.

Balancing Tradition and Modernity

Kaisanji's architecture reflects a delicate balance between tradition and modernity. While paying homage to Japanese Zen meditation spaces, the interior design incorporates modern elements to enhance the overall experience. Perforated partition panels filter natural light, creating a play of light and shadow that adds to the meditative ambiance. The Zendo, Kaisanji's meditation hall, serves as a focal point for spiritual reflection, with its simple yet practical design aligning with the essence and philosophy of Zen.

Embark on Your Zen Journey

Experience the serenity of Serifos Island, where nature's beauty and Zen teachings harmonize to create an oasis of calmness and reflection. Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or new to the path, Kaisanji welcomes all who seek solace, connection, and inner peace.

For more information about upcoming retreats and programs, please visit: zencenterathens.com

Dope Roasting Co., in the heart of Athens, is more than just a coffee shop; it’s a versatile space for enjoying top-notch coffee and getting things done. Whether you're diving into emails or studying for exams, Dope offers the perfect balance of energy and relaxation. The modern seating area, friendly staff, and cozy, welcoming vibe make it an inviting spot for locals and travelers alike.


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Picture yourself sipping a smooth Freddo espresso, your ideal study companion, while taking in the shop’s vibrant atmosphere. Need to recharge? Most tables come with power sockets, making it easy to keep laptops and phones running while you work. The two-story café provides an excellent mix of areas—downstairs is perfect for focused work, while outside seating offers a nice change of pace when you want fresh air.


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Dope’s attention to quality doesn’t stop at the coffee bar. They serve an array of drinks like iced coffees, fresh juices, and their popular carbonated lemonade. For those with a sweet tooth, lemon berry cake is a must-try, while sandwiches and pastries round out the food options. Plus, the place has a beautiful, modern interior and a small garden area for added relaxation.


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If you’re someone who focuses better with a mix of good coffee and a lively setting, Dope Roasting Co. is your go-to. With a welcoming environment that feels like a perfect blend of work and play, this Athens café is the ideal place to fuel up, plug in, and let the creativity flow.