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XpatAthens
Friday, 15 May 2015 16:40
Serendipity Magazine - 4th Issue
Serendipity Magazine explores how artists express through their spirit in this issue. This issue, a fourth in a series exploring The Anatomy of the Artist, features painters, writers, photographers and a tasty bit more!
Click the following link to read this issue of the magazine: http://free.yudu.com/item/details/3154087/Anatomy-of-the-Artist---Art-of-the-Spirit.
Click the following link to read this issue of the magazine: http://free.yudu.com/item/details/3154087/Anatomy-of-the-Artist---Art-of-the-Spirit.
Published in
Greek Language & Culture
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Thursday, 15 June 2017 07:00
Everything’s Ready For The “Patmos Revelation”
Up to 50% discount and an extra ferry route on Thursday (29/6) from Blue Star Ferries!
Athens, June 8, 2017 – “Patmos Revelation” continues its intensive preparations for the sports tourism event that will be held in the sacred island between June 30 and July 2, 2017. Registrations continue with undiminished interest as a lot of athletes from different places of Greece and abroad have already registered.
The Municipality of Patmos, in cooperation with the South Aegean Region and Active Media, aim to develop the sports tourism field, by attracting as many tourists as possible to participate in the event and by showing to the participants a part of the island’s history.
The program of “Patmos Revelation” includes Kids’ Athletics by the Olympic and World Champion, Periklis Iakovakis on Friday (30/6) at 09:00 at the football stadium of Patmos. The activity aims at getting children acquainted with the track and field sports, as it has been developed and established by a special panel of scientists from IAAF (International Association of Athletics Federation) and is officially implemented in Greece by the Hellenic Athletics Federation (SEGAS) in cooperation with the Ministry of Education.
On Saturday (1/7), at 11:00 in the morning, the open water swimming race will be held at Grikos bay. Swimmers will cover the distance of the 1 mile (1.6km) swimming route. Right before the start of the race a warm-up will be held by the team of the pilates instructor, Mandy Persaki. The safety of athletes will be taken care of by Katerini’s Lifeguard School, Lifeguard Patrol.
On Sunday (2/7), morning, running races will be held having Skala as the starting point. The 15km route (starts at 08:15am), passes through two UNESCO World Heritage Sites (historic center of Chora, Holy Monastery of St. John the Theologian and Sacred Cave of the Apocalypse). The 5km route starts at 09:00am while the 1km route for children starts at 10:55am at the seaside of Skala.
Rania Rempouli will also be present in the running races. The Greek athlete is one of the of the most promising runners, who represented Greece at the Rio Olympics in 2016, and in December 2015 was the 1st Greek woman who completed the Athens Marathon the Authentic.
You may see the detailed schedule of the event HERE.
You may see the detailed schedule of the event HERE.
Such major events would not be successful without the support from significant sponsors. “Vikos” is one of these companies, which will offer the opportunity to all athletes participating in the event to quench their thirst with the natural mineral water “Vikos” that contributes to the good functioning of the body during sports.
The event has ensured special ferry routes through Blue Star Ferries to facilitate the audience and offer them direct access to the “sacred” island of the Dodecanese. All those attending “Patmos Revelation” will be able to travel with the safely and comfort of the top Greek shipping company. With an additional ferry route on Thursday (29/6) at 15:00, aiming to provide the best possible service, Blue Star Ferries offers a 50% discount on ferry tickets to the participant athletes, as well as a 30% discount to their escorts/family members and their vehicles to those wishing to visit the event and the island between June 26 to July 6.
At the same time, the event will be supported by Sixt rent a car, which will cover the event and all visitors’ car rental needs with its fleet.
The event has also taken care of those wishing to stay in Patmos while participating at “Patmos Revelation”, since attractive packages with several privileges are offered. VitaNTravel, as the official travel agent of the event, will take care and assist all athletes and escorts with information about the ferry routes, ferry tickets, car rentals and accommodation in the island.
For more information visit: http://vitantravel.gr/home/
For more information visit: http://vitantravel.gr/home/
If you wish to register for the event click HERE!
Watch Patmos Revelation 2017 teaser video HERE!
Official Sponsors: Blue Star Ferries, “Vikos” Natural Mineral Water
Official Supporters: Patmos Aktis Suites & Spa, Sixt rent a car, 1001 flights
Official Travel Agent: VitaNTravel
Photo Credit: Patmos Aktis Suites & Spa
Official Supporters: Patmos Aktis Suites & Spa, Sixt rent a car, 1001 flights
Official Travel Agent: VitaNTravel
Photo Credit: Patmos Aktis Suites & Spa
Published in
Local News
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Thursday, 30 November 2017 09:29
Gastronomy In Greece
Every corner of Greece has unique specialties and dishes that have evolved over time. From the interplay of necessity and invention; from raw materials that grew naturally in harsh or fertile environments; from passersby – invaders or refugees – who introduced new ideas and from the Orthodox Church, whose stringent regulations regarding fasting compelled countless generations of housewives to create an enormous repertoire of wonderful vegetarian and vegan dishes. Discover Greece takes us on a gastronomic experience to taste big city Greek cuisine, traditional products, wine and local spirits, and more!
Gastronomic Tradition in Greece
The key for any visitor is to ‘go local’, enjoy the gifts of the land and see and the company of people who have upheld ancient culinary traditions for centuries. Exchange toasts with your neighbours as you drink wine made from exquisite home-grown grapes. Have fun at lunch parties on Sundays and holidays that last till evening, enjoying traditional dishes that have been seasoned with love and special care.
Greek Cuisine in the Big Cities
In the big cities, you’ll dine at innovative and star-spangled restaurants serving new Greek cuisine and you’ll visit traditional markets that have been open since the 19th century. Shop windows and open-air displays will entice you with their novelties and freshness, inviting you to sample and taste familiar or unfamiliar foods. Live like a local in a land that has been influenced by waves of conquerors and embrace the habits that have for so long nourished body and soul of an entire nation.
To read this article in full, please visit: Discover Greece
Published in
Greek Food & Diet
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Tuesday, 31 December 2019 19:37
New Year Wishes & Traditions
Spending New Year's in Greece? Great! We have everything you need to know so you don't feel like a fish out of water, from all the traditions that take place to what the locals eat to celebrate the new year!
Please click HERE to view this issue of our newsletter!
Published in
Newsletters
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Thursday, 25 June 2020 07:00
Smithsonian Magazine Cover Story: The Legacy of Philip II of Macedon
Alexander the Great, king of the ancient Greek kingdom of Macedonia, who created one of the largest empires of the ancient world, by the age of 30, is one of the most famous rulers of all time. But Alexander's achievements would not have been possible without his father's; King Philip's II, legacy. Even though he is not as famous as his offspring, King Philip II was also a remarkable leader.
The cover article of the June edition of the Smithsonian Magazine is dedicated to Philip II of Macedon, who "was a colossus in his own right, a brilliant military leader and politician who transformed Macedonia and built its first empire." To discover more about King Philip II journalist Richard Grant traveled to Aigai, the ancient royal capital of Macedonia and site of Philip's palace, where he met Angeliki Kottaridi, an archaeologist who has dedicated much of her life to excavating the ruins at Aigai.
Kottaridi and her team's work continues to give insight on the rise of this ancient superpower, including how Philip "paved the way for his son Alexander to become a legend." The article focuses on Philip's upbringing and how he came to be the man he was, backing everything up with statements by Kottaridi and other researchers.
The archaeological finds discovered in the area will be displayed in the new "Polycentric Museum of Aigai," which will open for the public in 2021. In addition to the Museum, the partial restoration of Philip's palace will enable visitors to appreciate the grand scale of the building, which covered 4 acres.
The archaeological site of Aigai is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, that is slowly rising from obscurity. It is almost sure that in the next few years, it will become an unmissable destination for history buffs and cultural travelers.
To read this aricle in full, please visit: greece-is.com
To read this aricle in full, please visit: greece-is.com
Published in
Greece In The News
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Monday, 15 February 2021 17:55
Archaeological Finds Discovered During The Covid19-Era In Greece
Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, travel bans, and safety measures, archaeologists in Greece made a startling array of exciting discoveries. In some cases, the lack of visitors proved a blessing, allowing researchers to pore over popular sites that would otherwise feature crowds of tourists.
This list explores 3 of the most significant archaeological finds reported in Greece over the past months.
This list explores 3 of the most significant archaeological finds reported in Greece over the past months.
1. Theopetra Cave, Thessaly
Theopetra Cave in Thessaly is a significant site that was continuously occupied by humans for 130,000 years. The cave is famous for the fossilized footprints of a group of young Neanderthals and a 23,000-year-old wall one of the oldest known human constructions. Excavations at Theopetra have also revealed the well-preserved remains of a young woman, named Avgi who lived in the cave during the Mesolithic period, around 7000 BC.
The results of the analysis of the most recent finds reveal even more clues about the lifestyle and diet of the cave’s later Neolithic inhabitants. In fact, the evidence shows that Stone Age Greeks ate a healthier diet than many modern humans. The inhabitants of the cave ate wheat, barley, olives, and pulses, and a moderate amount of meat from a mix of domesticated and wild animals such as wild boar. Evidence suggests the people in Theopetra Cave kept cattle, pigs, sheep, goats, and at least one dog, perhaps as a companion for hunting and herding.
2. Aiolou Street, Athens
A well-preserved head of a statue depicting the god Hermes was discovered lying a mere 1.3 m under street level last November during construction works on the busy Aiolou Street in central Athens. The head is thought to have formed part of a herma (literally meaning ‘heap of stones’), one of many similar statues that functioned as road markers or indicators of important public or private spaces in ancient Athens.
Based on its style, the newly found bust dates to around the end of the 4th or the beginning of the 3rd century BC and resembles the bearded Hermes Propylaios famously sculpted by Alcamenes who is considered by many as one of the finest sculptors in ancient Greece. Its unearthing is a reminder that Athens is still packed with hidden archaeological treasures waiting to be discovered.
3. Akrotiri, Santorini
Santorini’s strategic position on the maritime routes connecting southern Cyclades, Crete, and the copper-rich island of Cyprus was one of the reasons why it became an important trade center during the Middle Bronze Age between 2160 and 1600 BC.
In early 2020, Professor Christos Doumas reported on new archaeological finds discovered during excavations at the famous settlement of Akrotiri. Among the finds in the interior of a building known as the ‘House of Thrania’ (‘House of Benches’) were two large double-headed axes made of finely-crafted bronze plates; artifacts that are typical of Minoan culture and religion in Crete and the southern Aegean. A large number of miniature ceramic vessels, other bronze items, and fragments of jewelry, including a small bead of rock crystal carved in the shape of a figure-of-eight shield were also found.
The most remarkable discovery was an inscription in Linear A, the undeciphered writing system used by the Minoans, on a fragment of what would have been a wooden construction, perhaps a box or chest. These finds gave more insight into the life of the settlers of the Bronze Age town before the Theran eruption in 1628 BC, one of the largest and most catastrophic volcanic eruptions in Mediterranean history.
To read this article in full and discover the full list of significant discoveries, please visit: greece-is.com
Published in
Local News
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Tuesday, 22 June 2021 10:35
Athens Presents: Project Athena
The pandemic has opened many "digital doors" in plenty of businesses and sectors this past year, giving them the chance to flourish and create new opportunities all over the world. One of these new opportunities has been to create a more "Digitally Intelligent" Athens in regards to environmental awareness with the help of 21st-century technology.
In co-operation with Microsoft and ATCOM, the municipality of Athens has launched “Project Athena”. A system of sensors scattered around the city, (starting from the center of Athens, in Plateia Kotzia, and in Kolonaki) which will collect data on various pollution markers like air quality and noise levels, quality of life markers like a number of wheelchair ramps on the city’s streets, and much more.
With the help of these sensors, the municipality will know which action needs to be taken and in which location by analyzing the sensor’s data through a custom-built management platform. Since June 15th, a total of 10 sensors have been installed in waste bins to measure their level of fullness, and several more have been put in place near pedestrian crossings and crossings for individuals with special needs to ensure that their access is not being inhibited.
With “Project Athena” in motion, Athens is one step closer to becoming a cleaner, safer, and more accommodating version of itself, both for the environment and for the daily lives of the locals.
XpatAthens extends a warm thank you to This Is Athens and the City Of Athens for sharing news and inspiring stories about how Athens aspires to be a clean, friendly, and welcoming city to live in.
Published in
Local News
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Monday, 10 June 2024 20:58
Unlocking Hidden Business Resources: A Fresh Perspective
In the ever-evolving landscape of business, staying competitive requires more than just leveraging traditional resources. While most entrepreneurs are familiar with capital, human resources, and technology, there are several less obvious resources that can provide significant advantages. Here, we explore some underutilized resources that can propel your business to new heights.
1. Crowdsourcing Expertise
Crowdsourcing goes beyond fundraising. Platforms like Wazoku Crowd and Kaggle allow businesses to tap into global expertise for problem-solving and innovation. By posing challenges to a crowd, businesses can receive a myriad of solutions, often at a fraction of the cost of hiring consultants or R&D teams.
Why it matters: This approach can lead to breakthrough innovations and solutions that might not emerge from within the company.
2. Data As A Strategic Asset
While businesses collect data, many do not fully exploit it. Advanced analytics and big data tools can uncover patterns and insights that drive strategic decisions. Predictive analytics, for example, can forecast customer behavior, optimize supply chains, and personalize marketing efforts.
Why it matters: Data-driven decisions are more accurate and can lead to higher efficiency and better customer experiences.
3. Strategic Partnerships & Alliances
Strategic partnerships can provide access to new markets, technologies, and expertise without the need for mergers or acquisitions. Collaborating with companies that complement your business can lead to synergies and shared success.
Why it matters: Partnerships can amplify strengths and mitigate weaknesses, providing a competitive edge in crowded markets.
4. Intellectual Property (IP)
IP goes beyond patents and trademarks. Licensing technology or processes can create new revenue streams. Moreover, a strong IP portfolio can enhance market position and attract investors.
Why it matters: Protecting and monetizing innovations can provide long-term financial benefits and market security.
5. Customer Feedback As A Resource
Active solicitation and analysis of customer feedback can reveal invaluable insights into product performance and customer satisfaction. Tools like Net Promoter Score (NPS) and Customer Satisfaction Score (CSAT) help quantify feedback and guide improvements.
Why it matters: Direct feedback from users is critical for continuous improvement and customer retention.
6. Employee Advocacy
Employees can be powerful brand ambassadors. Encouraging them to share their positive experiences on social media and professional networks can enhance brand visibility and reputation. Programs that recognize and reward employee advocacy can amplify this effect.
Why it matters: Genuine endorsements from employees can build trust and attract talent and customers.
7. Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is more than a buzzword; it's a business imperative. Implementing eco-friendly practices can reduce costs and appeal to a growing segment of environmentally conscious consumers. Certifications like B Corp can further enhance credibility and marketability.
Why it matters: Sustainable businesses often enjoy increased loyalty, cost savings, and compliance with regulations.
8. Learning & Development Platforms
Continuous learning is essential in a fast-paced business environment. Leveraging online learning platforms like Coursera or LinkedIn Learning for employee development can keep your team updated with the latest skills and knowledge.
Why it matters: A well-trained workforce is more innovative, productive, and capable of driving business growth.
9. Community Engagement
Engaging with local communities can build strong relationships and enhance brand loyalty. Community engagement can take many forms, from sponsoring local events to participating in volunteer programs.
Why it matters: Positive community relations can lead to a supportive local customer base and enhance your company's reputation.
10. Remote & Flexible Work Policies
The shift to remote work has opened new possibilities for talent acquisition and cost savings. Embracing flexible work policies can attract top talent from across the globe and improve employee satisfaction.
Why it matters: Flexibility in work arrangements can lead to increased productivity, lower overhead costs, and a broader talent pool.
Incorporating these lesser-known resources into your business strategy can provide unique advantages and drive sustainable growth. By thinking beyond traditional resources and tapping into these innovative areas, businesses can stay ahead of the curve and thrive in a competitive landscape.
Published in
Tips & Advice
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Thursday, 05 February 2015 12:53
My Week in Athens… April 12
Springtime weather has everyone outside… The week’s tragedy was fresh in everyone’s mind – but still something about the sunshine, the fresh air and the families outside made Saturday a ‘good day’…
I spent the afternoon learning about the past – the ancient past on display at the National Archeological Museum of Athens.
I know, I know - I figured I knew as much as one needed to know about ‘all that stuff’… I mean, it’s kind of everywhere in Athens. Well, was I ever wrong.
This time, we were lucky to be escorted through the museum by a professional Guide (friend of a friend of a friend…). This made all the difference. She knew the history, the symbolism, the cultural realities, the archeological controversies, the stories, the myths, the regional contexts, the social customs, the religious background – and anything else we cared to ask her about! For the first time, the rocks and the statues really came alive. There is really so much there to take in – the richness of the Hellenic past cannot be comprehended just by walking around and reading the little descriptive paragraphs alongside the endless rows of statues…
And what’s more, we got to see the brand new exhibit of the Antikythera Shipwreck, the sunken treasures of a 2nd century BC cargo ship. This is a really cool display (both in content and in concept!), and includes the Antikythera Mechanism – what some are calling the first ‘computer’.
All of that for the 7euro admission charge (Guide extra!) – not bad for a Saturday afternoon. And totally worth the visit.
National Archeological Museum
44 Patission Street
http://www.namuseum.gr/wellcome-en.html
See you next week.
Jack
In this weekly space, keep up with ‘Jack’ as he navigates daily life in Athens… Anecdotes, stories, hits & misses, the good, the bad and, well, the rest…
Published in
My Week In Athens
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Monday, 16 February 2015 09:56
Kollias - Legendary Seafood Now In Syngrou
The restaurant serves extremely fresh, innovative seafood dishes at affordable prices. Reliable dinners include grilled sea bass or shrimp in tomato and pepper sauce. Adventurous diners should try mussels stuffed with rice, grapes, and pine nuts; cuttlefish stew with broccoli and cream; or lobster with lemon, honey, and balsamic vinegar. Fresh salads and vegetable fritters accompany meals, and a simple but excellent wine list promises terrific vintages. Smart-casual to dressy attire. Reservations necessary. I have my all-time favorites and Kollias taverna is definitely one of them. I think it’s one of the few destination restaurants that have bucked the trend, lasting and thriving in an area that defies the dictum “location is everything.”
Years can go by between visits, as was the case with a friend of mine recently, but he recalled her name and the dish she ate the last time she was there! Software geniuses have designed computer programs that do that! For Tasso it’s part of being a good restaurateur. The place hasn’t changed much over the years. It’s live in, filled to the brim with fishing and maritime trinkets. His kitchen is open to the public and always bustling, but a visit to the fridge to see the catch of the day—always directly from fishermen and not from the Ichtyoscala (the wholesale market where the fishing boats come in every morning)—is a must. We love the fact that here we found a whole range of great Lenten fare, including: soupia Yiouvetsi (cuttlefish and pasta) with its ink, eggplant rolls filled with mussels, octopus Stifado (stew). Seskoulodolmades with pligouri (chard dolmas filled with bulgur), and stuffed kolokytholoulouda (zucchini blossoms). Don’t miss the pitaroudia (fried patties) filled with Tarama either. Small fish from the Aitoliko Gulf off western Greece, such as “hovioi” are in season now and Tasso is quick to tell you that the bigger size is called “Papoutsia” ("shoes") by local fishermen. We loved his fried small soupies in their ink and the classic but delicious fish baked in salt. It’s not easy in these tough times to keep a place going for so long. Kollia’s recipe for excellent food, fresh greek fish, the best wine prices in town and hospitality that’s really heartfelt has made this place top of my own list of personal favorites.
Hours: Mon-Sat 9pm-1am, Sun noon-4pm; closed Aug
Alcohol Served: Beer, Wine
Ambiance: Intimate, Outdoor Dining
Dress: Business Casual
Meals: Dinner
Reservations: Absolutely Required
Contact: +30 210 462 9620 /210 94 08 620
Address: Syngrou 303 & Dimosthenous
Do you have a recommendation or recipe to share? Send it to us at ideas@xpatathens.com!
Published in
Restaurants In Athens
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