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XpatAthens

Special prices for international flights through Qatar Airways!

The "Navarino Challenge" will take place between the 13th and 15th of October 2017, in Messinia and Costa Navarino, as part of its overseas promotional strategy and is renewing the cooperation with Qatar Airways.

Qatar Airways, the national carrier of the State of Qatar, is proud to be “Going Places Together” with travelers across its more than 150 business and leisure destinations. A multiple award-winning airline, Qatar Airways has been awarded World’s Best Airline, World's Best Business Class, Best Business Class Airline Lounge and Best Airline Staff Service in the Middle East by international air transport rating organisation Skytrax. Qatar Airways proudly supports a range of exciting international and local initiatives dedicated to enriching the global community that it serves. Qatar Airways sponsors world-leading sports events, like “Navarino Challenge” reflecting the values of sports as a means of bringing people together, something at the core of the airline’s own brand message “Going Places Together”.

A short while ago, in New York, the 1st Greek Panorama exhibition took place with great success, aiming to promote Greece to the US market. Thousands of New Yorkers, as well as tourists from around the world, visited the expo at the most central station in Manhattan, the Grand Central terminal.

The “Navarino Challenge” will take place for another year with the support of Costa Navarino and The Westin Resort Costa Navarino as well as the Municipalities of Pylos-Nestor and Trifilia.

Please use the promo code ATHNAVCH to book an exclusive offer for roundtrip tickets to Athens from over 150 places, via the following link: http://www.qatarairways.com/gr/el/cugs/navarinochallenge.page Offer valid from 3 to 15 October 2017 included (Outbound) and (Inbound) to be completed on or before 25 October 2017. This offer refers to roundtrip tickets to Athens from more than 150 destinations, including New York, USA.

More information will be announced in the next few weeks.

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Hashtags: #navarinochallenge #costanavarino #eatwell #runwell #livewell

Official Airline Partner: Qatar Airways
Official Sponsor: “Vikos” natural mineral water
Official Supporters: BIC®, BIC® Sport, Wyndham Grand Athens, Poseidonia, Surf Salad
Assisted by: Navarino Outdoors, Swim Academy, Navarino Racquet Academy, Apia
Strategic TV Partner: National Geographic

Photo:  A view from the cocktail “A Night to Remember by Qatar Airways” in Navarino Challenge 2016.
Photo credit: Elias Lefas
At a "warm" event in downtown Athens, the official presentation of the 3rd "Santorini Experience" was held on Tuesday, May 30th, while the organization will take place in the enchanting Santorini from 6 to 8 October. The press Conference of the top sports tourism event for professional and amateur athletes in Greece, was hosted at the Wyndham Grand Athens hotel, with the presence of journalists and numerus eminent guests.

The event also featured the exclusive show with the best moments of "Santorini Experience 2016" before the broadcast by FOX Sports.

Several honored personalities were present in the event, people that are connected with the successful sports weekend of Santorini, which will be held for the 3rd consecutive year. The mayor of Santorini, Mr. Nikos Zorzos, the president of the Hellenic Swimming Federation, Mr. Dimitris Diathesopoulos, the president of D.A.P.P.O.S. (Municipal Sports Cultural Environmental Organization of Santorini) Mr. Lefteris Tzouros, the technical directors of swimming and running Nikos Gemelos and Nikos Polias, the responsible of the Kids' Athletics program, Periklis Iakovakis, as well as Greek National Open Water Swimming team were some of the protagonists of the Press Conference.

The mayor of Santorini, Mr. Nikos Zorzos, made a very important announcement and pointed, among other things: "We are delighted to welcome the 3rd Santorini Experience this year! This sports event has become an establishment for our island and even more visitors are looking forward and arrange their holidays around it. This year, which is very emotional for us, the 5 km route will be named "Aristides Alafouzos". The route, begins from the desalination factory of Oia, which was donated to the island's inhabitants by this great man. This action, as a minimum tribute to the late Aristides Alafouzos, while in the future there will be also other acts of expressing our gratitude".

Mr. Dimitris Diathesopoulos, the president of the Hellenic Swimming Federation (ΚΟΕ), said: "The event is part of the sport tourism, which our country needs and in combination with the venue, the beautiful Santorini, gives an incentive for an important event that goes beyond the limits of Greece and is now becoming an international sport and tourism event. By incorporating it under the auspices of KOE and with the participation of the whole National Team and the top athletes in OPEN WATER, we support the event in practice, thus contributing to its promotion and establishment in the international arena”.

Greetings also addressed by the Greek National Tourism Organization General Secretary, Mr. Dimitrios Tryfonopoulos: "Last year athletes from 28 countries realized why this island offers unique experiences to its visitors. This year, those who will be involved, will experience it in practice. This event is in line with the objectives of the Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO) to internationally promote the country's destinations as well as the alternative forms of Greek tourism, that ensure sustainable development with a 12-month horizon. In fact, through the coverage of networks such as FOX Sports, one of the largest sports television networks in the world, we have the opportunity to spread our message to countless potential visitors, much more than the 28 million people we have hosted in 2016".

Please note that the FOX Sports premiere in Europe, of the show with the best moments of last year's organization, will be broadcasted through NOVA on 19/6, while of Asia, Africa etc.

The president of DAPPOS, Mr. Lefteris Tzouros, in his turn, said: "Santorini Experience returns on October 6-8 full of energy and new ideas.

Establishing it is a fact that makes us proud because in a very short time it has managed to gain a world-wide glamor, which was our initial goal. The successful collaboration of the Municipality of Santorini - DAPPOS - ACTIVE MEDIA, the auspices of the ΚΟΕ and the Greek National Tourism Organization, as well as our sponsors, are the factors that have given a global power to the organization. We are waiting for you to live these moments and to participate in the challenge of Santorini Experience... ".

An important part of the success of the event is also accomplished thanks to Ryanair, who as an official airline partner of "Santorini Experience", offers the connection of Athens with Santorini with direct flights from 13 cities abroad. At the same time, for those who choose a flight with an intermediate stop in Athens, the cooperation with the Wyndham Grand Athens Hotel offers accommodation with very attractive packages, which happens for the first time in a sports event taking place outside Athens.

"Santorini Experience" is the 1st Sport Tourism Event in Greece with an online special website section for the partner hotels, aiming to bring more athletes, targeting to the bloom of tourism with a higher turnout from abroad. It’s worth to be mentioned that in almost one month of registrations, 80% of them come from Russia, Austria, Italy and Germany.

The organization innovates once again by taking care of amateur athletes with the addition of a high-quality safety lifeguard buoy, which gives the participant another reason to choose the participation in Santorini Experience.

All of the above would not have happened without the great support of the sponsors who stood by the idea of "Santorini Experience" from day one. "Vikos" is one of these companies, which for the third consecutive year will offer to the athletes who will take part the opportunity to quench their thirst with the Natural Mineral Water “Vikos” that contributes to the good functioning of the body during sports.

More information regarding the activities schedule and the hospitality packages of sponsors will be announced in the following weeks.

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Youtube Channel

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Hashtag: #SantoriniExperience

Official Airline Partner: Ryanair
Official Sponsors: Blue Star Ferries, Alafouzos Sport, Athina Luxury Suites
Official Supporters: “Vikos” Natural Mineral Water, Avance Rent A Car, Aqua Vista Hotels, Wyndham Grand Athens, Santorini Boatmen Union
Hospitality Sponsors: Aqua Vista Hotels, Athina Luxury Suites, Vedema A Luxury Collection Resort Santorini, West East Suites, 270 Oia's View, White Pearl Villas, Central Fira Hotel, Memories Hotel, Loizos Stylish Residencies, Esperas Santorini, Sienna Residencies, Hotel Rivari Santorini
Official Travel Agent: Smile Acadimos

(photo credit: Mike Tsolis)
 
The 1st ΥES to Sea Tourism Forum was held during the 4th Posidonia Sea Tourism, on Wednesday 24 May 2017 at the hall «Nikos Skalkotas» of the Megaron International Conference Hall, with the initiative of the YES Forum Team, consistied of 40 young executives and students managed by Mrs. Danae Bezantakou, Managing Director of the Navigator Shipping Consultants.

YES to Sea Tourism Forum was organised under the Auspices of the Ministries of Shipping, Education, Tourism and GNTO (National Organization of Tourism) and the majority of Greek Universities as well as the participation of more than 600 students and executives from the sea tourism & shipping industries.

Speakers stressed the need for launching a Platform of Open Dialogue between the young generation of shipping and sea tourism and today’s executives of the above sectors, recognizing simultaneously the contribution of the organization towards this goal.

The welcoming addresses were made by Mr. Dimitrios Tryfonopoulos, General Secretary of GNTO, Mrs. Evridiki Kourneta, Secretary General of the Ministry of Tourism and Mr. Pafsanias Papageorgiou, General Secretary of Lifelong Learning and Young Generation.

Worth mentioning is that during the Forum, the collaboration of the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Tourism was announced, regarding the upgrade of the Higher Schools of Touristic Education and the further modernization of the education provided in the 8 Public IEK (Institute of Professional Training) for Tourism. Following YES to Shipping 2016, the Ministry of Education underlined the necessity to upgrade maritime training, to develop the level of study in shipping-related schools and to bring them in contact with the shipping community, especially in terms of training program Studies.

According to a survey conducted by Focus Bari exclusively for the YES to Sea Tourism Forum, 82% of the respondents ranked from 7 to 10 (excellent) sea tourism in terms of their professional prospects, while in terms of salaries, 66% believe they are in satisfying level in comparison with other professions. However, 80% believe that information on employment is limited.

The Vice President of Royal Caribbean, Mr. Ukko Metsola, alongside with his speech, held a dialogue with the participants, referring to key features of the cruising and yachting sector. He underlined also that basic prerequisites for the development of a young individual are will and persistence.

Among the topics raised by the speakers were that the sectors of sea tourism, cruising and yachting in Greece are filled with opportunities for young people, which they should not be afraid to pursue and exploit. At the same time, issues such as the problems and challenges involved in finding managers were discussed, advice was given on the steps a young individual has to follow at the beginning of his/her career, and all of them insisted that the right conditions in order to “stay in Greece” have to be created first by us.

It was an honor for the organisers to participate at the Forum, among others, Professors from the biggest University Institutes of the Country, Senior Executives of Sea Tourism and Shipping, representatives of major organizations as well as representatives from the entire Maritime Press.

YES to Sea Tourism closed with executives from shipping industry participating in 4 networking corners with the following topics: “Chartering, Crew and Operations Departments of a Shipping Company”, “Startups, Innovation & Save Time in Shipping Agencies”, “Technical and Finance Department of a Shipping Company” and “Marine Insurance and Classification Societies”, giving advice to young people and answering their questions in reference to the above mentioned sectors.

Concluding this very successful Forum, Mrs. Danae Bezantakou invited everyone who contributed and supported YES to Sea Tourism Forum to continue this successful dialogue next year, at the 2nd YES to Shipping Forum, on 8th of June 2018 during Posidonia 2018.
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.

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/

If you wish to register for the event click HERE!

Watch Patmos Revelation 2017 teaser video HERE!
Facebook
Twitter
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Hashtag: #patmosrevelation

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
Monday, 10 July 2017 09:03

Happy 10th Birthday XpatAthens

July 2017 marks our 10th birthday!
The best is yet to come...
 
XpatAthens has been connecting the English speaking community of Athens and Greece for 10 amazing years. We are proud to call Athens our home city and absolutely love the work we do to connect people near and far.
 
 
 
Our warmest thanks to all of our readers, contributors, and advertisers.

 
To Celebrate Our Birthday
 
5 lucky winners will receive a special city experience included below.
 
Enter To Win By
 
A) Completing our quick survey HERE.
 
B) LIKE and SHARE our birthday news with your friends.
 


1) A Cape Sounion Day-Trip Transfer Service from YK Executive Transfers
Take a 4-5 hour trip along the Athens Riviera to the Temple of Sounion. Relax and enjoy as your local driver Giannis takes you for a lovely drive along the coast of Athens. Note, tour guide & lunch are not included, but may be added at an additional cost.

2) 1 spa voucher for a GB Collection Exclusive Massage at the GB Spa
Relish in the serene surroundings of the awarded GB Spa in Athens. Enjoy an exclusive massage at Athens' best spa!

3) Dinner for 2 at Chefi Restaurant
The summer garden is a refreshing city oasis and the food is divine! Enjoy dinner for two at one of Athens' finest restaurants.

4) Dinner for 2 at Dinner In The Sky
Head up above the city for a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience in central Athens that will take your breath away!

5) 2 nights accommodation at the King George Hotel Athens
Relax and unwind for two nights in central Athens at one of the city's best Luxury Collection hotels.



 
                                              logo YK


                            chefilogo                   dinnerinthesly logo




                         KG NEW Logo                         GB NEW Logo        



                       

Everything’s ready for the “Patmos Revelation” sports tourism event, which will take place on the sacred island between June 30 - July 2, 2017.

The main purpose of the Municipality of Patmos, in cooperation with The Region of South Aegean is the attraction of more alternative tourists who will participate in the event and become acquainted with the significant history of the island!

Few days are left for “Patmos Revelation”, the event which is now under the auspices of the Greek National Tourism Organization, and registrations continue with a lot of participations from Greece and abroad. Registrations through the official page of the event will continue on a regular basis, while racing kits from all participants will be received on Thursday (29/6), Friday (30/6) and Saturday (1/7) from 09:00 -21.00, at Patmos Cultural Center, “PATMION”.

Click HERE if you wish to register for the event!

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.

On Saturday (1/7), at 11:00 in the morning, the open water swimming race will be held at Grikos bay (1 mile/1.6km swimming route). 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, the 5km route starts at 09:00am while the 1km route for children starts at 10:55am at the seaside of Skala.

The Greek national open water swimming team will be present at the swimming race, headed by the European champion, Antonis Fokaidis.

You may see the detailed schedule of the event at the following link: http://www.patmos-revelation.gr/en/schedule.html

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, another great shipping company, Dodekanisos Seaways, will stand next to the event, offering a 30% discount to participants. With routes from and to Leros, Kalymnos and Samos, the company will enhance the tourist traffic of the island of Patmos.
Patmos Aktis Suites & Spa is an official supporter of the event. The 5-star hotel of “Divine Hotels” Group, is located at Grikos bay and is always ready to provide high quality hosting services to the participants and visitors of the island. In addition, the AB Vassilopoulos supermarket chain will support “Patmos Revelation” by offering products to participants and volunteers, while “Vikos” 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 also taken care of the accommodation services for those participating in “Patmos Revelation”. Attractive packages for 4 days (3 nights) are offered with transport and accommodation for 2 people, starting at 260€.

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 click here.

The event will be supported by the following hospitality sponsors: Patmos Aktis Suites & Spa, Allotina Houses, Skala Hotel Patmos, Onar, Chris Hotel, Alykes Studios, Porto Scoutari, Stefanos Katsaros Studios, Hotel Athina, Hotel Rodon, Villa Zacharo, Grikos Hotel, Hotel Effie.

Watch the 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, ΑΒ Vassilopoulos, Dodekanisos Seaways, 1001 flights
Assisted by: SEGAS, IAAF Kids Athletics, T & G Patmos Rentals, Lifeguard Patrol
Hospitality Sponsors: Patmos Aktis Suites & Spa, Allotina Houses, Skala Hotel Patmos, Onar, Chris Hotel, Alykes Studios, Porto Scoutari, Stefanos Katsaros Studios, Hotel Athina, Hotel Rodon, Villa Zacharo, Grikos Hotel, Hotel Effie
Official Travel Agent: VitaNTravel
Strategic TV Partner: National Geographic

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Hashtag: #patmosrevelation

Press Office Contact:
Tel.: +30 210 9343020, fax: +30 210 9316505 e-mail: pr@activemedia.com.gr
The elite of Greek Olympic Champions in the 5th annual sports tourism fest of Messinia!

We are counting down the days for the 5th consecutive event that will be held between October 13-15, 2017 in Messinia and Costa Navarino shortly before the historic Naval Battle of Navarino.
 
“Navarino Challenge” is the sports tourism event with the most Olympic ambassadors, and is hosted once more in Messinia with more than 10 Olympic sports!
 
“Navarino Challenge” promotes the value of “fair play” adopting the purpose of the Olympic Movement, supported by Olympic athletes and Champions who educate young people through sports, without any discrimination. At the same time, the athletes inform them about the benefits of exercise and the Mediterranean diet and prompt the audience to support the cause of the fight against childhood obesity.
 
Registrations for the multiple award-winning sports tourism event are open and everyone can now take part by completing the special entry form HERE!
 
Runners of all ages, starting from Navarino Dunes in Costa Navarino will run a coastal route to Pylos beach, crossing Voidokilia beach and following the trail mapped out, back in Homer’s years, by Telemachus, Ulysses’ son, trying to find his missing father. According to the Homeric tradition, when the son of Ulysses arrived on the beach on a ship, he had with him the goddess Athena disguised as Mentor. On their way, runners will discover the mythical Voidokilia, the most famous beach in Messinia and one of the best in the world, with its unique shape that outlines the letter Omega of the Greek alphabet, written as “Ω”!
 
Participants may select to run in one of the following routes, the exquisite Half Marathon (21,1km), the 10 km route and the 5km run (for running and dynamic walking). At the same day a 1km running route for children will be held. The start and finish points are common. The routes have been designed and edited by the former marathon runner, holder of national best performance on the classical route, running coach and director of All About Running, Nikos Polias. This year, there will be race timing for all runners.
 
For one more year, sea lovers will have the opportunity to swim without competition, in the beautiful Navarino bay at the picturesque port of Pylos, covering the unique swimming route of one mile (1.6 km.) designed by the Federal Technical Director in
 
Swimming, Nikos Gemelos (coach with countless distinctions in the Olympic Games and world championships in open water swimming).
 
Participating athletes will have the opportunity to quench their thirst with the Natural Mineral Water "Vikos" that contributes to the well-functioning of the body during sports. In addition, for the fourth consecutive year, athletes and organizers will move with the safety and efficient engines of the cars of Ford Motor Hellas, the official sponsor of “Navarino Challenge”.
 
Right after, the swimming activity, a Stand Up Paddling race by BIC® Sport will take place for the second consecutive year!
 
“Navarino Challenge” will present at the port of Pylos an innovative sport like Stand Up Paddling (SUP), which quickly became popular worldwide. It is an easy and ideal sport for someone to enjoy in an area surrounded by some of the best beaches in Greece. The entertaining routes for beginners or experts are the best choices for those who wish to experience the peacefulness of the Ionian Sea. One of the most recognized brands in the world, BIC® company with presence in the field of water sports with BIC® Sport since 1979, is supporting this activity. All athletes participating will have the opportunity to test the credibility of the SUP BIC® boards. Stand Up Paddling will be held with the support of the best surf club, Surf Salad!
 
The privileged accommodation packages at The Westin Resort Costa Navarino are now available for those wishing to enjoy the full schedule of “Navarino Challenge”. For further information please click HERE!
 
In order to get advantage of these privileged prices it is necessary to have completed your registration for at least one activity in running, swimming, or SUP (per reservation).
 
“Navarino Challenge” will be held under the Auspices of the Greek National Tourism Organization with the support of Costa Navarino and The Westin Resort Costa Navarino, as well as the Municipalities of Pylos-Nestor and Trifilia.
Hashtags: #navarinochallenge #costanavarino #eatwell #runwell #livewell

More information will be announced in the next few weeks.
 
Official Airline Partner: Qatar Airways
Official Sponsors: “Vikos” Natural Mineral Water, Ford Motor Hellas
Official Supporters: BIC®, BIC® Sport, Wyndham Grand Athens, Poseidonia, Surf Salad
Assisted by: Navarino Outdoors, Swim Academy, Navarino Racquet Academy, Apia
Strategic TV Partner: National Geographic
 
Under the auspices of the Greek National Tourism Organization

 

The sports tourism event “Patmos Revelation”, was completed with absolute success in the sacred island of the Dodecanese, between June 30th and July 2nd 2017. Patmos Municipality, Region of South Aegean and Active Media cooperated with an excellent result which was evident from the participations and the positive comments of both participants and residents of the island.

More than 200 professional and amateur athletes of all ages from 9 countries (Australia, England, France, Germany, Italy, Serbia, Switzerland, Turkey and Greece) visited Patmos to live the experience of the event by swimming with absolute safety in the Aegean waters and by running in the unique routes, that passed through two UNESCO World Heritage Sites (historic center of Chora, Holy Monastery of St. John the Theologian and Sacred Cave of the Apocalypse).

The program of “Patmos Revelation” started with Kids’ Athletics (30/06) by the Olympic and World Champion, Periklis Iakovakis at the football stadium of Patmos with the participation of children who learned many of the secrets of track and field sports. The activity 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 the second day of the event, on Saturday (1/7), the open water swimming race was held at Grikos bay (distance of the 1 mile/1.6km). The route was designed by the Federal Technical Coach of Swimming Nikos Gemelos while the safety of athletes was taken care of by Katerini’s Lifeguard School, Lifeguard Patrol. The swimming race was held under the auspices of the Hellenic Swimming Federation with the presence of the Greek national open water swimming team, headed by the European champion, Antonis Fokaidis.

Right before the start of the race a warm-up was held by the pilates instructor, Mandy Persaki.

During the 3rd day, on Sunday (2/7), running races of 15km, 5km and 1km (for children) were held having Skala as the starting point. All routes were designed and edited by the top director of All About Running, Nikos Polias. The 15km running route was characterized with similar difficulty level to a marathon race by experts and experienced participant runners. Michalis Chatziioannou was the winner of the 15km route with a 01:01:34 time (who was also the winner of the Rhodes marathon race).

You may see the total results of the 15km and 5km running routes here!

Participant athletes and escorts travelled in the “sacred” island of the Dodecanese with the safety and comfort of the top Greek shipping company Blue Star Ferries, that facilitated the audience with additional ferry routes and discounts.
Vikos company supported as a sponsor all children activities and quenched the thirst of both participants and the audience with the natural mineral water “Vikos” that contributes to the good functioning of the body during sports.
Official supporter of Patmos Revelation, was the 5-star hotel Patmos Aktis Suites & Spa, of the Divine Hotels group, in which an event was held with the presence of media, ambassadors and representatives from the Holy Monastery and Patmos Municipality.

Commemorative gifts were offered by Archimandrite Father Vartholomaios to the Federal Technical Director in Swimming, Nikos Gemelos, by the Mayor of Patmos, Grigoris Stoikos, to the World Champion Periklis Iakovakis and by Patmos Municipality Head of Tourism & Sports Giannis Skebes to the European Swimming Champion of open water swimming, Antonis Fokaidis.

AB Vassilopoulos supermarket chain supported “Patmos Revelation” by offering products to participants and volunteers.
Another great shipping company, Dodekanisos Seaways, standed next to the event. With routes from and to Leros, Kalymnos and Samos, the company enhanced the tourist traffic of the island of Patmos with special discounts.

At the same time, the event was supported by Sixt rent a car, which covered the event and all visitors’ car rental needs with its fleet, while throughout the whole event vehicles moved with the excellent quality of ELIN fuel!

The event was supported by the following hospitality sponsors: Patmos Aktis Suites & Spa, Allotina Houses, Skala Hotel Patmos, Onar, Chris Hotel, Archontariki, Alykes Studios, Porto Scoutari, Stefanos Katsaros Studios, Hotel Athina, Hotel Rodon, Villa Zacharo, Grikos Hotel, Hotel Effie, while the audience was served by the official travel agent VitaNTravel.

Patmos Police Station, Patmos Port Authority, Patmos Health Center as well as the Volunteers, Rescuers and Lifeguards Corps of Hellenic Red Cross Kos helped in the smooth implementation of the races.

The event was held under the auspices of the Greek National Tourism Organization.

Website
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram
Hashtag: #patmosrevelation 

Official Sponsors: Blue Star Ferries, “Vikos” natural mineral water
Official Supporters: Patmos Aktis Suites & Spa, Sixt rent a car, AB Vassilopoulos, Elin, Dodekanisos Seaways, 1001 flights
Assisted by: SEGAS, IAAF Kids Athletics, GoPro, T & G auto moto rentals, A1 yacht trade consortium, Lifeguard Patrol, Giannaros Theologos
Hospitality Sponsors: Patmos Aktis Suites & Spa, Allotina Houses, Skala Hotel Patmos, Onar, Chris Hotel, Archontariki, Alykes Studios, Porto Scoutari, Stefanos Katsaros Studios, Hotel Athina, Hotel Rodon, Villa Zacharo, Grikos Hotel, Hotel Effie
Official Travel Agent: VitaNTravel
Strategic TV Partner: National Geographic

Photo Credit: From the beginning of the 15km running route of Patmos Revelation, by Mike Tsolis

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Double gold distinction at the Sports Marketing Awards 2017

The Olympic “family” of “Navarino Challenge” grows and returns for a 5th consecutive year on October 13-15 2017, in Messinia and Costa Navarino.

Every year “Navarino Challenge”, honors the athletes who stand out for their overall contribution to sports. Honoree person at this year's event will be the Olympic gold medalist in Rio and world champion in the rings, Lefteris Petrounias who has made proud all Greeks not only with his successes but also with his ethics. Petrounias, is considered an exemplary athlete for young people, who has already won a gold Olympic medal, two gold medals in the world gymnastics championships, as well as four gold and one bronze in European tournaments and championships in rings.

The multiple award-winning sports tourism event of Messinia continues with new distinctions; following the Gold Ermis Award as best sports tourism event, another important recognition came at the Sports Marketing Awards 2017, which highlight the best practices in the marketing and communication of the Greek sports market.

On Wednesday, July 12, “Navarino Challenge” remained in the top level by winning not just one, but two gold awards. In particular, the event received a gold award at the “Sports Events / Branded Events” section, in the category “Live Well” for the values promoted through its program of activities. As an event that attracted thousands of participants, reinforced the local community, promoted the athletic ideal and contributed to the strengthening of a healthy lifestyle, distinguishing itself in terms of design, creativity, innovation, efficiency and effectiveness.

The second gold award was received in the “Sports Brands” section of the “Integrated Marketing Campaign” category for the best communication and marketing campaign launched in 2016, in the light of strong creativity, ingenuity, originality and excellence.

“Navarino Challenge”, which takes place in Costa Navarino and throughout Messinia, is innovating every year and now composes not only the event with the most sports activities but also with the most Olympic sports, contributing to the promotion of sports and the promotion of Greek tourism.

Registrations for “Navarino Challenge” continue with an undiminished pace and everyone can take part by completing the special entry form available by clicking here.

Participants may select to run in one of the following routes, the exquisite Half Marathon (21,1km), the 10 km route and the 5km run (for running and dynamic walking), while at the same day children may run the 1km running route. This year, there will be race timing for all runners. In addition, participants will have the opportunity to swim in the beautiful Navarino bay at the picturesque port of Pylos, covering the unique swimming route of one mile (1.6 km.) and take part in the Stand Up Paddling race by BIC® Sport that will be held with the support of the best surf club, Surf Salad!

Travel to “Navarino Challenge” with the multiple award-winning airline company Qatar Airways, by using the promo code ATHNAVCH to book an exclusive offer for roundtrip tickets to Athens from over 150 places, by clicking here!

Offer is valid from 3 to 15 October 2017 included (Outbound) and (Inbound) to be completed on or before 25 October 2017. This offer refers to roundtrip tickets to Athens from more than 150 destinations. Participants should be ready for even more surprises to be announced by the official airline partner of the event.

In addition, Vikos company will support and refresh for one more year the audience and participants of the event with the Natural Mineral Water "Vikos", while ambassadors and organizers will move with the safety of the cars of Ford Motor Hellas.

The privileged accommodation packages at The Westin Resort Costa Navarino are available for those wishing to enjoy the full schedule of “Navarino Challenge”, which includes more than 10 free sports activities. For further information click here!

“Navarino Challenge” will be held under the Auspices of the Greek National Tourism Organization with the support of Costa Navarino and The Westin Resort Costa Navarino, as well as the Municipalities of Pylos-Nestor and Trifilia.

More information will be announced in the next few weeks.

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Hashtags: #navarinochallenge #costanavarino #eatwell #runwell #livewell

Photo: Greek Olympic gold medalist and world champion in the rings, Lefteris Petrounias will be the honoree person of "Navarino Challenge"
 
Official Airline Partner: Qatar Airways
Official Sponsors: “Vikos” Natural Mineral Water, Ford Motor Hellas
Official Supporters: BIC®, BIC® Sport, Wyndham Grand Athens, Poseidonia, Surf Salad
Assisted by: Navarino Outdoors, Swim Academy, Navarino Racquet Academy, Apia
Strategic Partner: National Geographic
Under the auspices of the Greek National Tourism Organization
Another award for the successful “Santorini Experience”

Athens, July 19 2017. The 3rd “Santorini Experience” will take place in the breathtaking Santorini from October 6th to 8th. The top sports tourism event for professional and amateur swimmers and runners in Greece, which recently won the silver award at the Sports Marketing Awards 2017 in the “Sports Events / Branded Events” section of the “Sports Tourism” category, offers the opportunity to those wishing to travel to the beautiful Santorini to “measure” their stamina and to “flirt” with the adrenaline!

The official airline partner of “Santorini Experience” Ryanair, which was awarded as the fastest growing company among the top 10 companies with the highest passenger traffic in Athens in 2016, is reinforcing the sports tourism of Santorini and the island’s completeness during the days of the event. The airline company will serve the route Athens-Santorini with fares starting from 14.99€ for bookings which will be completed until Sunday 23/07 and for travels within October. Since these amazing low prices will be available from Wednesday July 19, 2017 and will be snapped up quickly, customers interested in joining the event as active participants should log onto www.ryanair.com or the mobile application of Ryanair and avoid missing out.

You may see Ryanair’s video from “Santorini Experience” here!

At the same time, all those wishing to travel to the island by ferry, will be able to enjoy once again this year the safety and comfort of Blue Star Ferries. The top Greek shipping company offers 50% discount on the ferry tickets and vehicles to all those visiting the event and the island from October 2nd to 13th 2017. Each person who has completed his/her registration is entitled to the same discount for 3 more people (if these are his/her escorts) or for 4 people (if these are family members).

For the third consecutive year, ambassadors and organizers will move with the safety and efficient engines of the cars of Ford Motor Hellas, the official supporter of “Santorini Experience”.

“Santorini Experience” will receive for one more year the support of Avance Rent A Car. As an official car rental company of the event Avance Rent A Car will cover the event and all visitors’ car rental needs with one of the fastest growing car rental networks with presence in Greece & Cyprus and all major airports and will offer a 15% discount on car rentals.

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 Vita N Travel!

“Santorini Experience” is a world-renowned event with global broadcast, and it is worth noting that the show with the best moments of the event from 2016, which was screened in Greece via FOX Sports will also be broadcasted in 13 Asian countries (Hong Kong, Cambodia, Indonesia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Macau, Mongolia, Myanmar, Papua New Guinea, Malaysia and Brunei) on July 26th (18.30 Hong Kong time zone) and July 31st (13.30 Hong Kong time zone).

Regarding the athletic part of the event, and while registrations have already surpassed the record number of last year during the first 60 days, the schedule includes a 1.5-mile open water swimming race, on Saturday 7 October 2017 and running routes of 15km, 10km & 5km, on Sunday 8 October 2017.

The swimming and running registrations continue with an undiminished pace at the official event page or alternatively at the store of the official sponsor Alafouzos Sport in Fira, which supports the event for a 3rd year.

The support from Santorini entrepreneurs does not stop there, as Aqua Vista Hotels will support for a second consecutive year both as an official supporter and hospitality sponsor the event, providing high quality hosting services to the participants and visitors of the island.
Similarly, Santo Maris Oia Luxury Suites & Spa promises an unforgettable holiday experience to the visitor, at an environment that is tailored to modern needs, offering to the event and thus recognizing the great significance of “Santorini Experience” for the island and its tourism.

At the same time, Canaves Oia is listed in the hospitality sponsors, while Sunset Oia Sailing Cruises, as the expert of organized sailing tours in Santorini will assist the event.

The hospitality sponsors supporting the event are: Aqua Vista Hotels, Athina Luxury Suites, Santo Maris Oia Luxury Suites & Spa, Vedema A Luxury Collection Resort Santorini, Canaves Oia, West East Suites, 270 Oia's View, Central Fira Hotel, Memories Hotel, Loizos Stylish Residencies, Fanouris Condo, Monolithia Hotel, Esperas Santorini, Sienna Residencies, Hotel Rivari Santorini, White Pearl Villas.

"Santorini Experience" will take place under the auspices of the Greek National Tourism Organization and the Hellenic Swimming Federation with the co-organization of the Municipality of Santorini, DAPPOS and Active Media Group.

More information regarding the activities schedule and the hospitality packages of sponsors will be announced in the following weeks..


Running @ Santorini Experience: Photo by Elias Lefas

Official Hashtag: #SantoriniExperience
Official Airline Partner: Ryanair
Official Sponsors: Blue Star Ferries, Alafouzos Sport, Athina Luxury Suites
Official Supporters: Ford Motor Hellas, “Vikos” Natural Mineral Water, Avance Rent A Car, Aqua Vista Hotels, Santo Maris Oia Luxury Suites & Spa, Wyndham Grand Athens, Santorini Boatmen Union
Hospitality Sponsors: Aqua Vista Hotels, Athina Luxury Suites, Santo Maris Oia Luxury Suites & Spa, Vedema A Luxury Collection Resort Santorini, Canaves Oia, West East Suites, 270 Oia's View, Central Fira Hotel, Memories Hotel, Loizos Stylish Residencies, Fanouris Condo, Monolithia Hotel, Esperas Santorini, Sienna Residencies, Hotel Rivari Santorini, White Pearl Villas
Assisted by: Sunset Oia Sailing Cruises, Alios Ilios, Lifeguard Patrol
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