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Navarino Challenge 2019: 2,700 Participations From 40 Countries In The Biggest Sports Tourism Celebration
Nick Galis guest of honor – with the presence of the Minister of Tourism & the Deputy Minister of Culture & Sports!
The award-winning Navarino Challenge, united according to its central message “Sports Unite People”, people of all ages for the 7 th consecutive year from 11-13 October 2019 in Messinia and Costa Navarino.
More than 2,700 participants of all ages enjoyed, the ideal weather conditions, with a rich program of more than 30 activities. The event, hosted by The Westin Resort Costa Navarino was recently recognized as the best sports event in Greece and supported the ideals of the Olympic Movement, contributing towards the development of a peaceful and better world without any discrimination, through sports.
The wellness event promoted the benefits of exercise and raised awareness on the Mediterranean diet, towards the fight against childhood obesity. Furthermore, considering the global issue of inactivity of youth, the event exhorted young people to get involved in games and sports, through the Active Kids program, by adding even more kids’ activities. Navarino Challenge brought together athletes, families and children from 40 countries, including among others, Australia, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, India, Italy, Lebanon, Netherlands, Moldavia, Norway, Portugal, Qatar, Russia, Spain, Sweden, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, Ukraine, USA.
The full schedule of the event included activities for the whole family. On Friday, October 11, Greek Hall of Fame basketball athlete Nick Galis, this year’s guest of honor, was the one to tip off the 4on4 basketball tournament by Nutramins that was held with the participation of the basketball legend Joe Arlaouckas and twice silver Olympic medalist Alexandros Nikolaidis. The day continued with many sports activities and ended with the screening of Barney Spender and Roddy Gibson’s award-winning documentary “The Road to Sparta” at the Agora, Costa Navarino.
Messinia at the center of sports tourism
On Saturday, October 12 sport action was held in the Municipality of Pylos-Nestor that supported the event for another year and helped in the smooth implementation of the activities at Navarino Bay with the assistance of local companies. For the first time in the event, participants had the opportunity to try sea kayaking and headed to the island of Sphacteria with the support of Explore Messinia.
Right after, open water swimming enthusiasts had the chance to compete in a chip-timed event at the beautiful Navarino bay from the scenic Pylos harbor, covering the unique 2 1 mile (1.6 km) route of the open water swimming race by Vikos. The swimming event was held with absolute safety with the approval of the Hellenic Swimming Federation, according to FINA’s regulations and the support of Pylos Hellenic Coast Guard and Pylos-Nestor Municipality.
The route was designed by the national federal technical coach, Nikos Gemelos.
Silver Olympic medalist in open water swimming Spyros Gianniotis, world champion Kelly Araouzou, European champion George Arniakos and significant athletes of the Greek National Open Water Swimming Team participated in this year’s race, in the presence of Pylos-Nestor Mayor, Takis Karvelas. Lifeguard Patrol, Pilos Dive Center group of divers and event’s medical partner Athens Medical Group ensured the safety of the swimming race.
“Challenge The Wind” interclub sailing race of triangle course with OPTIMIST and LASER 4.7 boats was co-organized with the Maritime Athletic Pylos Association “Nestor”. The sea actions also marked the beginning of the “Navarinia” event for the 192-year anniversary from the Battle of Navarino, which will culminate this week.
In addition, Pylos came alive with local flavors and scents. A station with traditional lalagia, loukoums, sesame seed bars and nuts with honey, created by Poseidonia and Pylos Poems welcomed visitors. A visit to the refurbished family home of the Olympic champion, Kostis Tsiklitiras, was held with the presence of Olympic medalist Spyros Gianniotis. All water sports were also supported by the following partners: Poseidonia, Pylos Association of Enterprises for Tourism Development, Karalis Beach Hotel, Karalis City Hotel & Spa.
On Saturday night, the official airline Qatar Airways welcomed guests on the special night “A Night to Remember by Qatar Airways”. In the presence of Minister of Tourism, Mr. Harry Theocharis and Deputy Minister of Culture and Sports, Mr. Lefteris Avgenakis, Qatar Airways honored great personalities of the sports industry. In particular, the Greek hall of famer Nick Galis was honored for his contribution in sports by Mrs. Costantza Sbokou-Constantakopoulou on behalf of TEMES, along with the Minister of Tourism, the Deputy Minister of Culture & Sports and Mrs. Theresa Cissell, Country Manager for Greece & Cyprus of Qatar Airways. The Greek-American ultramarathon runner and event’s ambassador Dean Karnazes, was awarded by the Minister of Tourism. Greek gold Paralympic medalist and world champion in boccia Grigoris Polychronidis was awarded by Mr. Byung Moo (Theofilos) Shin, President & Chief Executive Officer of Samsung Electronics Hellas. Silver Olympic medalist Spyros Gianniotis was awarded by the Deputy Minister of Culture and Sports, while journalists Minas Tsamopoulos and George Thanailakis undertook the presentation of the athlete and the award. Twice Olympic medalist in rowing, Vassilis Polymeros, was awarded by Ms. Petri Logara, Operations Manager of Ford Motor Hellas. World karate champion Eleni Chatziliadou was awarded by Country Manager for Greece & Cyprus of Qatar Airways, while bronze medalist in sailing world championship Maria Tsamopoulou was awarded by Mr. Stefanos Theodorides Managing Director of TEMES. The event was presented by Joe Arlauckas, under the rhythms of the Pylos Conservatory duet.
Qatar Airways Puzzle Challenge contest continues
Qatar Airways surprised participants with the Puzzle Challenge competition created through a special application.The contest continues until October 21 st with a gift of two round-trip airline tickets to over 160 places across the globe on Qatar Airways’ global 3 network. “A Night to Remember by Qatar Airways” was assisted by Kayak, Karoulias, Lafazanis, Nestor, while the specially designed awards of the event, were created by PHEE and Nestor Winery.
On Sunday, October 13, professional and amateur runners tested their skills on the routes of 5km by Samsung (running & dynamic walking), 10km by PlantBox and Ford Go Further Greek Half-Marathon (21.1km). The Half-Marathon route is described by runners as one of the most beautiful around the world, whereas the 5km route was the one that really impressed participants. Navarino Challenge was included in World’s Marathons world community with runners from the Sport Club with people with special needs from Kalamata, “Diaforozo”, celebrating their participation at the event one day before the International White Cane Day (October 15th). The routes were designed by the former marathon runner, holder of national best performance on the classical route, running coach and director of All About Running, Nikos Polias. During the event, all participants were timed. All running races are co-organized with Messiniakos Gymnastic Club, EAS SEGAS Peloponnese Region and the approval of the Hellenic Athletics Federation [SEGAS]. Hellenic Rescue Team – Messinia Department and the event’s medical partner, Athens Medical Group, ensured the safety of the races.
Later on, the children’s 1km race (supported by VIKOS) took place, with the dynamic presence of children from the wider region as well as clubs such as Messiniakos, GC Akritas 2016 and Pylos Maritime Sports Club.
Aiming to the protection of the environment and the adoption of a more eco-friendly strategy, the event proceeded with the following actions, among others: a) declared the start and endpoints of the Navarino Dunes runways as strictly smoke-free areas, b) declared the beautiful Voidokilia beach, which the runners crossed, as strictly plastic-free, c) offered participants an eco-friendly bag by Luanvi, event’s official sports supplier.
The first sports event worldwide with a medal made of seagrass The event innovated with another surprise. This year's participants received a medal made only of seagrass from the event’s official supporter, PHEE, a company that innovates by promoting the principles of “green” entrepreneurship and the re-use of natural resources. Moreover, the event offered each participant an olive tree by PlantBox. At the same time, all participants received high quality cosmetics be Messinian Spa.
As the official sports supplier of Navarino Challenge, LUANVI, the leading force in the field of sports apparel offered once again the official t-shirt of the event (made 100% of cotton). A special technical t-shirt for the participants, that as of last year contains elements from Messinia to enhance the feeling of remembering and unforgettable experience in order to highlight the cultural elements of the area. With this criterion in mind, the ancient symbol rodakas, found also during the Byzantine period whilst dominating Messinian life in ancient Greece, appeared on the t-shirt this year. At the same time finishers of the Ford Go Further half marathon, with great attendance and the participation of Dean Karnazes, received a special t-shirt with the design of Voidokilia.
The event innovated for yet another year alongside Samsung, official technology partner. During the running routes, participants had the chance to try the next-gen Galaxy Fit, tracking live their fitness stats, like cardiac pulse and timing in just one touch without missing a moment from their performance. Meanwhile, Samsung assisted in achieving the zero footprint of the event, contributing to a paperless registration with the use of the innovatory Galaxy Tab S6.
During the event, Samsung created a special Samsung Βusiness Lounge providing participants of Navarino Challenge with endless entertainment, while informing them on the ultimate business solution of the company, the Samsung Dex. Participants also got to know the powerhouses of smartphones Galaxy Note10 | Note 10+, enjoyed the unparalleled picture of Samsung QLED 8K TV, the cinematic experience of Samsung 4K Smart QLED TV, the use of the QLED Gaming Monitor and browsed the multiple functions of the interactive Flip monitor.
Unique piece of art in Navarino Challenge
A special surprise from Samsung awaited participants of Navarino Challenge, with the exceptional artwork of artist Nathan Makris, that depicted top athletes, Nick Galis, Spiros Gianniotis, Alexandros Nikolaidis, Grigoris Polychronidis, Periklis Iakovakis and Dean Karnazes. Visitors had the opportunity to take a picture with them and post their photos on social media.
The three-day schedule included activities such as: taekwondo (with Olympic medalist Alexandros Nikolaidis and the numerous participations of TaeKwonDo teams from Kyparissia), basketball (with Joe Arlauckas), beachathlon (with Olympic and World Champion, Periklis Iakovakis), beach volley lessons by Samsung and King & Queen Beach Volley Tournament by Samsung (with Michalis Triantafyllidis and supported by Triantafyllidis Beach Arena), climbing and bike ride at Voidokilia by HSBC (supported by Navarino Outdoors), pilates (with physical education instructor, Mandy Persaki), golf by Qatar Airways (supported by Navarino Golf Academy and instructor Adam Kritikos), kick boxing (with champion Alexandros Nikolaidis), baby swimming (supported by Swim Academy and Red Swim Academy), group cycling (spinning challenge with trainer Tess Arlauckas from F45 The Pearl and Dimitris Moros from FitnessArt), tennis cross training (supported by Navarino Racquet Academy), boxing (with Christos Gatsis and supported by Vizantinos target sport club), high intensity training and crossfit (with Dimitris Moros and supported by FitnessArt), F45 training (from trainers Tess Arlauckas and Scott Hettermann – F45 The Pearl, Doha), beach yoga by Messinian Spa (with Katiana Priovolou and the support of FitnessArt), karate (from the coaches of Pammessiniakos Karate Sports Club and the presence of the World Karate Champion Eleni Chatziliadou) and boccia demonstration by Samsung (from Gold Paralympic athlete, Grigoris Polychronidis)
Ford Motor Hellas promoted sports and “fair play” as the event’s official sponsor and supported the efforts of the fight against childhood obesity while promoting healthy diet by participating for another year in the support team of Navarino Challenge. For the sixth consecutive year, athletes and organizers moved with the safety and efficient engines of the cars of Ford Motor Hellas, while the brand-new Ford Ranger Raptor was present too in Navarino Challenge 2019!
For another year Vikos SA as an official sponsor spread the message of sporting energy with the natural mineral water “Vikos”, offering the necessary hydration and revitalization to all participants. The natural mineral water “Vikos” offers the necessary balance, well-being and energy that the athletes need during their exercise in order to be able to continue their efforts.
More than 250 people worked in the event’s production in less than 50 hours.
“Navarino Challenge” supports: a) the Institute of Preventive Medicine, Environmental and Occupational Health, Prolepsis with a program on Food Aid and Promotion of Healthy Nutrition, DIATROFI, and through the Captain Vasilis and Carmen Konstantakopoulos Foundation: b) WWF Greece and c) Karkinaki, through the GivenGain online platform:
https://bit.ly/33KTNhD
Qatar Airways was the official airline.
Samsung was the official technology partner for another year.
Official sponsors of the event were Ford Motor Hellas and the Natural Mineral Water “Vikos”.
Luanvi was the official sports supplier of the event for one more year. Nutramins was the official health supporter of the event.
Official supporters were Poseidonia, PlantBox, PHEE and Municipality of Pylos- Nestor. HSBC was the official banking partner.
Messinian Spa was the Official Beauty Partner for the first time. ON was the official shoe partner.
Athens Medical Group was the event’s medical partner. Partners of the event were Pylos Poems, Fysiotek Sports Lab, Karalis Beach Hotel, Athens Easy Transfers. Avance Rent A Car was the official rental partner. National Geographic was the strategic partner of the event and 24MEDIA its premium media partner.
All event’s equipment transfers were made with Pilia Express.
Athletic Partners: Explore Messinia, F45 The Pearl, FitnessArt, Navarino Golf Academy, Navarino Outdoors, Navarino Racquet Academy, Pilates by Mandy, Red Swim Academy, Swim Academy, Triantafyllidis Beach Arena, Vizantinos target sport club CSR Partners: Captain Vasilis and Carmen Konstantakopoulos Foundation, WWF Greece, Karkinaki, Institute of Preventive Medicine Environmental and Occupational Health Prolepsis Volunteering Partner: Phaos Assisted by: VitaNTravel, Karalis City Hotel & Spa, Lifeguard Patrol, Pylos Association of Enterprises for Tourism Development, Maritime Athletic Pylos Association “Nestor”, Target Security, Pilia Express, Kayak, Nestor, Blackmile, Epathlon, METAXA, The Blue Beetle, Fever-Tree, NoS, Southern Comfort Discount Partners: Anazoe Spa, Armyra, Attica Selections, Bio & Pharma, Branco, Kafenio & Deli, Kessaris, Kooc Taverna Secrets, Lol the brand, Nargile, Panellinios Agora Games, Souvlakerie, The Diner, Tsamis Eyewear Boutique “Navarino Challenge” joined the Greek actions of the #BeactiveHellas 2019 programme of the European Commission and was held under the auspices of the General Secretariat of Sports.
The event was held under the auspices of the Greek National Tourism Organization with the approval of the Hellenic Swimming Federation. Navarino Challenge was co-organized by Costa Navarino , The Westin Resort Costa Navarino and Active Media Group with the support of the Municipalities of Pylos- Nestor and Trifilia. Hashtags: #navarinochallenge #costanavarino #sportsunitepeople #eatwell #runwell #livewell
The Onassis Foundation Improves The Accessibility And Illumination Of The Acropolis
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis met on Wednesday, October 23 at the Maximus Mansion with Antonis Papadimitriou, President of the Onassis Foundation, regarding the Foundation’s contribution to upgrading the infrastructure on the Hill of the Acropolis.
During the meeting, at which Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni and the Onassis Foundation’s Director of Culture Afroditi Panagiotakou were also present, Mr. Papadimitriou informed the Prime Minister of the Foundation’s decision to fund the installation of a modern platform lift (in place of the current lift and hoist), as well as the renovation and upgrading of the night illumination of the archaeological site.
Prime Minister Mitsotakis thanked Mr. Papadimitriou for the Foundation’s valuable contribution. He stressed that through its actions, the Foundation “projects the face of a Greece that has always maintained its values and sensitivity, particularly toward its cultural heritage, which comprises the heritage of all of humanity.”
Ms. Mendoni thanked Mr. Papadimitriou for the Onassis Foundation’s long-standing and constructive collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and noted that, “The Foundation’s financial support is important for the improvement of the infrastructure and services that are offered to the thousands of visitors that come to the archaeological site of the Acropolis. It is particularly important given the fact that the Acropolis is a primary image of Greece.”
In turn, Mr. Papadimitriou noted that “With these actions on the Hill of the Acropolis, the Onassis Foundation affirms its deep belief that culture is an issue of democracy, one that concerns society as a whole. By installing a wheelchair platform lift, we solve a practical, but also a symbolic issue: we stress the importance of equal access for all. We are also renewing the illumination of the Acropolis as a small gesture of respect to the monument and to the archaeologists that protect it in all of our names—because, in the end, the Acropolis will continue to illuminate us.
For the Onassis Foundation, everything is an issue of education. The Acropolis, as a monument that expresses Athenian Democracy, cannot help but comprise a priority. The monument continues to stand there, with or without us. But we have an obligation to renew its symbolism, according to the needs of the age. In collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, the Onassis Foundation gives residents of Athens a new incentive to rediscover their city.
This effort is part of a broader strategy we have outlined for our city, Athens, with actions that will be announced in the coming months.”
The existing lift and hoist system will be replaced by a modern wheelchair platform lift, as is now customary in similar situations elsewhere in the world; the platform lift will provide the best possible accommodations for people with mobility impairments.
As for the lighting infrastructure, which was installed in 2004 in time for the Olympic Games, the plan calls for a comprehensive upgrade on the basis of the original study, so that the lines and shadows of the monuments and the rock can emerge anew from the new environment of the nighttime Athens of today.
Both projects are projected to be completed by summer 2020, while the cost is estimated at 1.5 million euros.Expat City Ranking: The Best And Worst Cities To Move To In 2020
The Best And Worst Cities To Move To In 2020
This year, Taipei, Kuala Lumpur, Ho Chi Minh City, and Singapore are at the top of the list, followed by Montréal, Lisbon, Barcelona, Zug, The Hague, and Basel. While expats appreciate each city for different reasons, they have some aspects in common: they typically rank highly in the Urban Work Life, the Quality of Urban Living, and the Local Cost of Living Indices. What is more, expats find it (very) easy to get settled in most of these cities, but not so much in the Swiss cities of Basel and Zug.
Expats are unhappiest in Kuwait City (82nd out of 82) as well as in both Italian cities surveyed, Rome (81st), and Milan (80th). Lagos (Nigeria), Paris, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Lima, New York City, and Yangon (Myanmar) also join the bottom 10 cities worldwide.
The Expat City Ranking is based on the annual Expat Insider survey by InterNations. With more than 20,000 respondents in 2019, the Expat Insider is one of the most comprehensive reports about living and working abroad. In 2019, 82 cities around the globe were analyzed in the survey, offering in-depth information about 5 areas of expat life: Quality of Urban Living, Getting Settled, Urban Work Life, Finance & Housing, and Local Cost of Living. Together, the first four areas make up the Expat City Ranking, which reveals the best and worst cities to move to in 2020.
Expat Life In Athens
In the 68th place, Athens is held back in the Expat City Ranking 2019 by its very poor financial situation and work life.The Greek capital comes last worldwide in the Finance subcategory. Over two in five respondents (41%) feel that they do not have sufficient disposable household income to cover their daily costs (vs. 23% globally), while nearly half (47%) are dissatisfied with their current financial situation (vs. 26% globally). This might be linked to Athens’ poor work life, for which it ranks second to last worldwide, behind only Rome. Almost three in ten expats (27%) are dissatisfied with their job in general (vs. 19% globally), two in five (40%) are unhappy with the job security (vs. 21% globally), and 56% are displeased with the local career opportunities (vs. 27% globally). A US American expat explains that “it is difficult to find steady employment because of the unsteady economy”. Indeed, 68% of expats are unhappy with the state of Athens’ local economy, which is more than four times the global average (15%).
While having significant weaknesses in terms of finances and work life, Athens does rank highly for housing (12th): more than half the expats (51%) find housing affordable (vs. 36% globally), and 60% agree that it is easy for expats to find a home (vs. 50% globally). Expats’ opinions are mixed when it comes to the quality of life in Athens (54th). They are not happy with the availably of healthcare (30% unhappy vs. 13% globally), the local transportation (23% vs. 19% globally), or the political (in)stability (38% negative ratings vs. 17% globally). However, Athens ranks among the top 10 in the Leisure & Climate subcategory (8th). More than three-quarters of respondents (77%) are content with the local leisure options (vs. 74% globally), and over nine in ten (91%) enjoy the local weather and climate (vs. 59% globally). A British expat says that he appreciates the “climate, quality of life, and friendliness of the people.” Indeed, almost three-quarters of respondents (74%) describe the locals as friendly (vs. 64% globally), and 57% believe it is easy to find new friends (vs. 45% globally).
About Internations
With more than 3.5 million members in 420 cities around the world, InterNations is the largest global community and information site for people who live and work abroad. InterNations offers global and local networking both online and face-to-face. At around 6,000 official events and activities per month, expatriates have the opportunity to meet other global minds. Online services include country and city guides created by a team of professional writers, guest contributions about life abroad, and discussion forums to help members with topics such as the local job or housing search.
To read more about this survey, please visit: InteNations.org
Navarino Challenge 2019: Love Auction
The award-winning sports tourism event Navarino Challenge returns for a good cause, organizing an auction of love to support three nonprofit organizations. Favorite items of beloved and renowned athletes and ambassadors of Navarino Challenge will be available through an online auction from December 11th to December 20th, 2019.
You can take part in the auction and acquire the items by clicking HERE!
In the auction you will find, among other things, the official jersey of Greece at the 1987 European Championship and a hall-of-fame ball signed by basketball legend Nick Galis, the signed jersey of NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo from his first appearance in the NBA All Star Game and his first appearance with the Greek Men’s National Team, his signed front page cover at the Sports Illustrated magazine, item of the gold Olympic medalist and world champion in still rings Eleftherios Petrounias, as well as the jersey of Greece from the 1996 Olympic Games with the signature of Panagiotis Giannakis. In the auction you will also find signed memorabilia from athletes such as: Grigoris Polychronidis (gold Paralympic athlete and world champion in boccia), Alexandros Nikolaidis (two times silver Olympic medalist in taekwondo), Spyros Gianniotis (silver Olympic medalist and world champion in open water swimming), Periklis Iakovakis (Olympic and world champion in 400m. with hurdles), Kelly Araouzou (world champion in open water swimming), Eleni Chatziliadou (world champion in karate), Vasiliki Millousi (world champion in balance beam), Joe Arlauckas (legend of Real Madrid), Dimitris Diamantidis (Greek basketball legend), Kostas Papanikolaou (international basketball player with NBA appearances), Kosta Koufos (international basketball player with NBA appearances), David Rivers (basketball legend of Olympiacos), Dean Karnazes (Greek-American ultramarathon), Michalis Triantafyllidis (participations record holder of the Greek national volleyball team), Christos Gatsis (boxing champion), Alexandros Nikolaidis (kickboxing champion), Dimitris Moros (personal trainer), Giorgos Masouras (international footballer of Olympiacos), Nikos Karelis (international footballer of Brentford). In the auction you will also find the exceptional artwork (6x2m.) of the artist Nathan Makris, that depicts top athletes, Nick Galis, Spiros Gianniotis, Alexandros Nikolaidis, Grigoris Polychronidis, Periklis Iakovakis and Dean Karnazes.
All items are donated by the athletes or the event’s friends themselves.
a) the Institute of Preventive Medicine, Environmental and Occupational Health, Prolepsis with a program on Food Aid 2 and Promotion of Healthy Nutrition, DIATROFI, and through Captain Vasilis and Carmen Konstantakopoulos Foundation
b) WWF Greece
c) Karkinaki. Navarino Challenge is co-organized by Costa Navarino , The Westin Resort Costa Navarino and Active Media Group.
Hashtags: #navarinochallenge #costanavarino #sportsunitepeople #eatwell #runwell #livewell #sportauctions
ACS Athens S.T.E.A.M. Team Returns To Space
ACS Athens students had to meet strict safety, size, and mass criteria in order for their experimental apparatus, containing ouzo, petimezi, electronics, and their 3D-printed container (designed and prototyped by one of the students) to be approved for a space flight, familiarizing themselves with real-world S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) investigations. Jaeho Nam, ACS Athens student and member of the spACS 2 team said: "I was fortunate to be a part of the spACS 2 team, and I personally think this experience not only provided me the opportunity to attain essential skills for a career in engineering but to learn the true meaning and value of teamwork."
The international team of ACS Athens, formed in 2018, consists of High School students, their educators - Dr. Antonios Karampelas, Dr. Ioannis Kerkines, Ms. Victoria Poulou, Mr. Spyros Arsenikos, and Dr. Liana Tsigaridi - and external collaborators (Mr. Panos Mazarakis, Mr. Ilias Botsios). As Dr. Karampelas, Principal Investigator, stated: "I am proud of my students who managed to complete such a challenging task and excited to have seen ouzo and petimezi flying into space for the first time in history."
More information on the conclusions of the experiment will follow, as they become available.
The video of the launch is available by Blue Origin
The ACS Athens team first presented the spACS experiment during the 2019 Athens Science Festival
To learn more about the experiment click here
To learn more about Blue Origin click here
Celebrate Valentine's Day At Two Of The Most Historic Hotels In Athens
The most renowned 'corner of Athens' welcomes St. Valentine’s Day and invites you to a world filled with authentic gifts and indigenous delicacies by French Pastry Chef Arnaud Larher. On that special day, visit the historic Hotel Grande Bretagne and gift your loved one with the most elegant products as well as with the exclusive Valentine’s Day dessert that the awarded Chef Pâtissier inspiringly has created.
On Valentine’s Day, surrender to the nurturing of the awarded GB Spa. Visit the best spa of Athens and embark on a journey of rejuvenation and relaxation, revitalize your senses with an amazing range of spa treatments and an extensive spectrum of health and beauty therapies performed by our professional spa experts.
Visit the landmark Hotel Grande Bretagne or the elegant King George, celebrate the most romantic day of the year and enjoy the opulent selection of privileges with an outstanding accommodation package that includes:
Celebrate Valentine’s Day at GB Roof Garden and Tudor Hall Restaurant. Experience an alluring atmosphere and a romantic menu with the most beautiful view in town.
Tudor Hall - Valentine’s Dinner Menu: 75€/person
Syntagma Square, Athens
grandebretagne.gr | gbspa.gr | 210 33 30 000
KING GEORGE, A LUXURY COLLECTION HOTEL, ATHENS
Syntagma Square, Athens
kinggeorgeathens.com | 210 32 22 210
Navarino Challenge Returns For The 8th Consecutive Year In October 2020
Through its central message “sports unite people”, Navarino Challenge last year gathered more than 2,700 professional and amateur athletes from 40 countries. This year the event will once again unite people of all ages and abilities in a rich schedule with more than 25 activities and over 10 Olympic sports. Navarino Challenge is the only event in Greece that successfully combines alternative forms of tourism such as sports, cultural, gastronomic, sea and wellness tourism to this degree.
Navarino Challenge will be held for the first time this year along with the celebration of Navarinia fest in Pylos and the 193 years since the Navarino Naval Battle, honoring and reviving one of the most remarkable events in modern Greek history. Participants of the event will have the opportunity to attend this major celebration in person, as a free shuttle service will be provided.
The event follows the ideals of the Olympic Movement, contributing towards the development of a peaceful and better world without any discrimination, through sports, promotes the benefits of exercise and raises awareness on the Mediterranean diet. Furthermore, considering the global issue of inactivity of youth, the event exhorts young people to get involved in games and sports, through the Active Kids program, by adding even more kids’ activities.
Navarino Challenge, annually demonstrating its charitable nature, announces Fashion Targets Breast Cancer (FTBC) as this year’s first CSR partner, reinforcing the breast cancer prevention and information campaign that takes place in the month of October. FTBC through its successful journey in Greece over the past nineteen years has been openly speaking about breast cancer. Operating through the invaluable work of many of its volunteers, it has funded various public information campaigns, helped more than 9,000 women get free breast screening and 25,000 women get free mammograms.
Navarino Challenge is co-organized by Costa Navarino, The Westin Resort Costa Navarino and Active Media Group with the support of the Pylos-Nestor Municipality.
More information on the activities and opening of registrations will be announced in the coming weeks.
#navarinochallenge #costanavarino #sportsunitepeople #eatwell #runwell #livewell
Coronavirus In Greece - Tips & Advice
Click here to learn more about goverment enforced measures to contain the spread of the virus.
Get a daily update on the course of the coronavirus pandemic in Greece. The data is updated daily according to the official announcements of the Greek Ministry of Health.
To stay up-to-date, please visit covid19.gov.gr
When To Seek Medical Care
If you have symptoms of the coronavirus (see below) and believe that you may have come into contact with an infected individual, you are urged to stay home and to contact your doctor immediately or the EODY (Greece's National Public Health Organization) at 210 5212054 or the telephone hotline 1135 for accurate instructions and information on where to seek treatment.
Where To Get Tested For Covid-19 In Athens
There are multiple ways to get tested and the following are a couple of these to help you in your research and decision process.
If you have health coverage from the Greek state (you hold a valid AMKA number), you can call 14900 and book an appointment for a FREE COVID TEST at your local clinic. This service is only available in Greek.
There are several private clinics throughout the city that offer testing for a charge typical in the range of €40-€80. Some of these include:
Athens Medical Group - appointment is required, results typically within 48 hours, service in English.
The World Health Organization (WHO) shares some necessary protective measures against the coronavirus and advises people to take care of their health and protect others by using these methods; also, these important tips on when and how to use a mask.
Following are the recommended protective measures:
1. Wash Your Hands Well & Frequently
2. Maintain Social Distancing
Keep at least 1 meter (at least 3 feet) distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing. Be extra careful of the elderly and indiviuals with chronic illness.
3. Avoid Touching Your Eyes, Nose, And Mouth
How To Use A Mask
Even though masks should be used as part of a comprehensive strategy of measures to suppress transmission, the use of a mask alone cannot provide an adequate level of protection against COVID-19.
Here are the basics of how to wear a mask:
1. Make sure to clean your hands before you put your mask on, as well as before and after you take it off.
2. Make sure your mask covers your nose, mouth, and chin.
Here are some specifics on what type of mask to wear, depending on where you go and who you are.
Wear a fabric mask unless you’re in a particular risk group. This is especially important when you can’t stay physically distanced, particularly in crowded and poorly ventilated indoor settings.
Wear a medical/surgical mask if you are over 60, have underlying medical conditions, are feeling unwell, and/or looking after an ill family member.
If a person becomes infected with the virus, they can develop symptoms that range from mild, such as the common cold, to very serious. As with other respiratory infections, infection of COVID-19 can cause mild symptoms, such as:
· Collapse
· Sore throat
· Fever
· Cough
Some people may have serious symptoms such as:
· Pneumonia
· Difficulty breathing
It rarely leads to death. Elderly and people with underlying diseases (such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease) are more susceptible to developing serious symptoms.
Volunteer For Free COVID-19 Testing
About 20,000 tests are performed daily by the public health system on people who have an increased chance of being exposed to the virus. The Greek government's goal is to significantly increase the number of tests by monitoring asymptomatic volunteers through the random selection of 12,000 citizens daily.
Your participation will give experts a better picture of the coronavirus in Greece and help contain its spread throughout the community. Fill in the following "COVID19 Free Test Application Form" to become a candidate for the COVID19 sample testing. The test will be carried-out with rapid antigen detection of the new coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. Your participation is valuable. For you, for your neighbor, for your own people, for all of us.
Find more information about how to participate in the sample testing procedure please visit testing.gov.gr (Information Available in Greek Only)
Updated Coronavirus Safety Measures In Greece
Even though it is sometimes hard to keep up with the ever-changing measures in Greece, we do our best to stay on top of the headlines and inform our readers in as much detail as possible.
Measures Against The Coronavirus In Greece - Updated on May 13, 2021
General Measures
The Greek government announced that Greece will be lifting most lockdown restrictions. From Friday, May 14th the "SMS System" along with the "Click-Away" & "Click Inside" methods for shopping at retail stores will no longer exist.
As of May 14th, the curfew will be in effect from 12:30 am to 05:00 am. During these hours, citizens will be able to send an SMS to 13033 only with codes 1 (going to a pharmacy or visiting the doctor) and 6 (only valid for pet walking).
Until today, the government has decided to re-open:
- Restaurants, bars, and cafes, only for outdoor dining.
- Primary and secondary schools.
- Organized beaches, under measures that include social distancing and hygiene rules
Upcoming re-openings:
- Museums in Greece on May 14th.
- Movement between regions will be allowed again from May 15th to coincide with the country's opening to all international visitors.
- Nurseries and day care centers on May 17
- Conservatories of music on May 17
- Open-air cinemas on May 21 (operating on a 75 percent capacity to ensure social distancing of customers)
- Live cultural events and shows in outdoor areas (only with seated guests) on May 28
2. Sending an SMS to the number 13033 see details here.
3. Stating your reason in a simple, signed personal declaration.
Public Transport
Public Services
Public service offices will remain open but will serve the public by appointment only to avoid overcrowding.
Education
Schools will close and students will attend classes via e-learning.
Tutoring and language centers will only operate with distance learning.
Mandatory teleworking (work from home) for 50% of public and private sector employees has been applied.
Employees must arrive at their workplace in 3 groups (7 am, 8 am, and 9 am) to prevent public transport congestion.
Employees must depart from the workplace in 4 groups to prevent congestion on public transport.
Frequent checks will occur at workplaces of public and private sector services, and fines imposed on supervisors/employers and employees who do not comply with personal protection measures in the workplace—namely, the mandatory use of a protective mask.
Rapid Covid-19 tests will be carried out at workplaces of the public and private sectors, public service buildings, and congested areas of Attica, such as schools, public transport, and hospitals.
Important Notice from XpatAthens
The Authentic Marathon Swim Skyllias & Hydna On July 4-5, 2020
The press conference of this historical sports tourism event was hosted at NJV Athens Plaza, in the presence of Deputy Minister of Culture & Sports, Mr. Lefteris Avgenakis, President of the Greek National Tourism Organization, Mrs. Angela Gerekou, Secretary General of Central Union of Municipalities of Greece (KEDE), Mr. Dimitris Kafantaris, Mayor of Istiaia-Edipsos, Mr. Ioannis Kontzias, silver Olympic medalist and world champion, Spyros Gianniotis, Greek national federal technical coach, Nikos Gemelos who has undertaken the technical direction and design of the swimming routes and Active Media Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Akis Tsolis.
During the press conference, Deputy Minister of Culture & Sports, Mr. Lefteris Avgenakis stated: “The organizers of this event need to be congratulated for teaching athletes the value and greatness of the historical achievement of those two swimmers. It is fully aligned with our philosophy of extroversion and the development of sports tourism in our areas. Thanks to this event the history of this land is promoted, and an opportunity for publicizing the natural wealth of the area is created, while also assisting in the development of the local economy and employment through the attraction of visitors from all around the country. The philosophy of this event thoroughly identifies with our main goal of making sport a way of life while achieving: improvement in quality of peoples’ lives, promotion of a healthy model of living and preparation of better citizens through sports. We work systematically in order to attract small and medium-sized events that can establish our country as a force in sports tourism”.
The President of the Greek National Tourism Organization, Mrs. Angela Gerekou stated: “We support sports tourism, and the Authentic Marathon Swim. As we move forward with our strategy of sustainable tourism growth with regional and thematic specialization, we promote the development of tourism in all our country’s Regions. Moving towards this direction we are in pursuit of significant events that can offer high added value to local communities and our country. In this context, sporting events adopt a vital role, due to the high level of interaction that they possess and due to the physical presence of participants that leads to a significant reach in the overall population. For Greece, sports tourism is pinpointed as a strategic target in the effort of promoting thematic specialization of the 2 Greek tourism product. The new sporting event “The Authentic Marathon Swim”, driven by the historical moment of Skyllias’ and his daughter’s Hydna swim from Afetes to Artemision, aims at creating an event that can offer international recognition and increase tourism levels. Greek National Tourism Organization aligns its position with the Ministry of Tourism and supports the publicization and promotion of such attempts, providing our Auspices, in order to give organizers another motive to achieve the best possible results. By supporting actions that promote thematic forms of tourism, such as sports tourism, we highlight the multiple capabilities of the Greek tourism product, adding to the well-known saying “sun and sea”. We are proving that through cooperation and methodical work we can apply our principles for balanced tourism growth between islands and mainland destinations, so that each region can be benefited, and give benefit back to the economy and the community. Finally, I would like to add that we are in continuous communications with the Municipality of Istiaia-Edipsos and all responsible bodies in order to have a successful event”.
On behalf of the event’s organization, Mayor of Istiaia-Edipsos, Mr. Ioannis Kontzias stated: “Our Municipality, through the motivation of the historical and cultural background of this land, initiates through the emblematic swimming event “The Authentic Marathon Swim, Skyllias & Hydna”, a variety of extroversive actions with the goal of developing and boosting our tourism product”.
A statement was also made by silver Olympic champion in open water swimming, as Spyros Gianniotis stated: “This is an historical event that links our past and our present with the glorious times of Ancient Greece. I am honored to be a part of this sporting event being the first Olympic champion in marathon swimming coming from our country. I wish that through this initiative we can attract young champions and great swimmers from all around the world towards marathon swimming, to enjoy this authentic route”.
The Authentic Marathon Swim, Skyllias & Hydna aims at uniting people of all nations and areas of this world, providing them with an opportunity of discovering and experiencing the history of the authentic marathon swimming route. In an effort of globally promoting the event, the organizers will collaborate with internationally recognized platforms of global events, attracting athletes from abroad. More information on the swimming races and the opening of registrations will be announced in the following weeks.
Many prominent personalities from the area of swimming were present at the press conference. People who have helped and continue to strengthen the Greek sport, each one in their own way and through their position, such as Marianna Lymperta, Dimitris Manganas, Dimitris Negris, Giannis Kotsiopoulos, Spyros Chrysikopoulos, Ioannis Palantzas and Nikolaos Simantiras.
A statement was sent by the Minister of Tourism, Mr. Harry Theoharis, in which he states: “Culture and Tourism are two concepts that are tightly linked, especially when they “meet” in order to illustrate the history of our land. The organization of events that promote culture and tourism, is considered vital by our Ministry and Government, obtaining our full support. An event of this nature is “The Authentic Marathon Swim, Skyllias & Hydna”. The event that takes place with the permission of the Hellenic Swimming Federation and under the auspices of the Ministry of Tourism, will attempt to do exactly that, by promoting the historical wealth of Artemision and Greece. A sporting event, that is simultaneously considered to be a staple of tourism and culture, with added value for the local community and the surrounding area as it contributes towards the promotion and the extension of services offered to tourists and customers that visit our country. Sports tourism identifies one of the main forms of thematic tourism, featuring great potential for growth in our 3 country, being considered as one of the immediate priorities in the strategic planning of the Ministry of Tourism for the following decade. Our country, having a mild climate and an unparalleled coastline, is ideal for the development of sports tourism and the organization of such events. I would like to offer my warmest regards and congratulations to the organizers and participants, while noting that such events contribute towards the overall attempt of developing Greek tourism and the promotion of our country”.
Moreover a statement to the organization was sent by the President of the Hellenic Swimming Federation, Mr. Dimitris Diathesopoulos who mentioned: “The Hellenic Swimming Federation, being the most relevant athletic federation, supports your event as it will be held under our auspices and I would like to believe that, similar to other attempts, it will succeed in terms of its organization and in terms of competition. Through this particular event the history of our country is highlighted, as it revives the authentic marathon swim of Skyllias and his daughter Hydna during the historical Naval Battle of Artemision, 2.500 years later. Best wishes to all participants and good luck”.
The Authentic Marathon Swim, Skyllias & Hydna will be co-organized by the Municipality of Istiaia-Edipsos and Active Media Group.
Anamnesia was the press event’s supporter providing all guests with Greek made unique gifts.
Sports Production: Active Media
Group Hashtag: #authenticmarathonswim
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