Introductions first. αθηΝΕΑ (pronounced a-thi-ne-a) is the free daily newsletter that supplies Athenians with their dose of news, every day, just in time for their lunch break. While it may only be available in Greek for now, we couldn’t think of one good reason why English speakers living or somehow connected to our beautiful city shouldn’t have access to its content. Thus, through today’s column, we present to you our first write-up of αθηΝΕΑ’s best and most relevant content, to be published exclusively through XpatAthens.

While we were patiently awaiting some solid news on the financial future of Greece to emerge from the negotiation that would not end, we had some time to read. We started with this piece in the FT, in which an Italian economist basically tells Greeks to reform or kindly leave the Eurozone. What did the international media’s Greek darling, our finance minister Yannis Varoufakis, have to say about it? He sent out some pretty contradictory messages to our lenders, basically asking Germans to lead, while accusing them of being butchers. Oh, and we - as in the Greeks - also managed to piss off our only remaining ally in Brussels, Jean-Claude Juncker, so there’s that.

Enough politics, what else went on this week? For one thing we felt extremely jealous of our friends in London, who get to visit this participatory art exhibition. We also got a wonderful book recommendation (Primates of Park Avenue), about women who have it all and also get bonuses when their kids perform well in school, as well as a ton of music recommendations, some taking us back to the late nineties, others more contemporary and some that truly made us wonder!

What are your thoughts on the Caitlyn-Jenner-breaks-the-internet phenomenon, whose aftermath was still being felt this week? We sure loved John Stewart’s thoughts on the matter, and found ourselves slighty irritated by this op-ed piece. It’s not that we didn’t think Elinor Burkett made some valid points, she just missed the point overall, as was articulated by Jill Filipovic in a truly brilliant article in Cosmopolitan of all places.

As we speak, we are frantically packing for a lovely weekend somewhere warm, and are wondering if there’s any chance our voyage could be as fun as that of EasyJet passengers who witnessed Kate Moss calling their pilot a basic b*tch. Speaking of the female bro, here’s a College Humor video-guide on How To Tell if You’re a Basic B*tch, in case you were wondering.

Let’s leave vulgarity aside and once again focus on the serious stuff: the G7 vowed to finally do something about climate change, which according to Oliver Burkeman is kind of a must since we, as humanity, are a bunch of climate change deniers at heart, ‘hardwired to shirk existential challenges'.

Last but not least, we got some helpful tips on how to avoid mosquito bites (hint: don’t move, don’t drink, don’t speak to anyone) and learnt from the Buddha of breaststroke himself that maybe our swimming skills weren’t so advanced after all.

Want to hear more from a8hNEA? Let us know by email: ideas@xpatathens.com.

The QS website included six Greek Universities in its 2015/2016 World University Rankings.

These six Greek institutions ranked globally known table. Specifically, the National Technical University (NTUA) ranked 376th, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki ranked 461-470th, University of Crete 501-550, National and Kapodistrian University and the University of Patra were both placed between the 601st and the 650th position, while the Athens University of Economics and Business ranked above the 701st position.

Kathimerini reports that the National Technical University ranked 238th based on the "citations per facuty area" criteria.  Furthermore, the NTUA's engineering technology faculty ranked withing the world's top 100 of its kind, occupying 67th place.

To read more, please visit: Greek Reporter

The Haridimos Shadow Puppet Museum in Athens, is a museum that keeps an important part of Greek cultural history alive. Karagiozis Shadow Puppet Shows were both pre-television era entertainment, and a way for Greeks to subtly poke fun at the ruling Ottoman empire. Anyone from the UK will instantly think of Punch and Judy.

Shadow puppet shows playes a hugely important role for Greeks during the years of Ottoman rule.  They were a way to poke fun at the Ottoman empire, pass on information, recount history and much more.  The main character in these shows was Karagiozis.  He is depicted as having a large nose, a humped-back and one arm longer than the other.  His character was someone who always tried to outwit society, but his attempts normally ended in comical disaster.  This provided the perfect opportunity to create stories around current affairs and the social situation under the Ottomans.  Social and political satire at its finest!

Visitors to the Haridimos Shadow Puppet Museum will notice almost immediately that it is not well signed, as in there is no English signage - this includes the exhibits inside.  It is tucked away to the left hand side of the Melina Mercouri Cultual Centre.

To read more, please visit: Daves Travel Pages

The Haridimos Shadow Puppet Museum in Athens is located in the Melina Mercouri Cultural Centre, 66 Iraklidon & Thessalonikis sts, Thissio.

The closest metro station is at Thissio. Entrance is free.

The general opening hours are 09.00 until 14.00 and 17.00 until 21.00 everyday except Mondays and Sundays. You may wish to call them on  210 3452150, 210 3414466 if you want to make sure they are open when you wish to visit

TripAdvisor recently announced the winners of its 2016 Traveler’s Choice Awards for Best Landmarks and the Acropolis in Athens made the list! Among the top 25 landmarks in the world, the Acropolis ranked 17th. In addition to making the list of top 25 landmarks in the world, the Acropolis was ranked 10th on the list of Europe’s top landmarks.

The 2016 Traveler’s Choice Awards for Best Landmarks in the World included impressive sites such as Machu Picchu in Peru, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center in Abu Dhabi, Angor Wat in Cambodia, St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, and the Taj Mahal in India.

To add to its list of 2016 achievements, the Acropolis also ranked 1st on TripAdvisor's list of Top 25 Landmarks in Greece. Some of Greece's other landmarks winning top spots were Meteora in Kastraki, Acropolis of Lindos in Rhodes, and Spinalonga in Elounda. 

TripAdvisor’s Chief Marketing Officer, Barbara Messing, said, ‘These award-winning landmarks attract millions of visitors each year and represent some of the world’s most impressive examples of human ingenuity.’

Source: Greek Travel Pages

To view the full list of the 2016 Traveler's Choice Awards for Best Landmarks, please visit: TripAdvisor

Archaeologists have discovered an old lost city in Greece dating back 2,500 years!

Researchers from the University of Gothenburg and the University of Bournemouth have begun exploring the ruins at a village called Vlochos, around 300km (190 miles) north of Athens.

The team, which also includes researchers from the Ephorate of Antiquities of Karditsa, found the remains of towers, walls and city gates on the summit and slopes of the hill.

The leader of the team, Robin Ronnlund, said the city appears to have flourished from the fourth to the third century BC before it was abandoned — possibly because of the Roman conquest of the area.

To read this article in full, please visit: Independent

Athens, the historic capital of Greece, is a city rich in culture, history, and vibrant energy. As one of the world's oldest cities, Athens offers a diverse range of neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm and character. Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, or someone who simply appreciates a lively atmosphere, Athens has a neighborhood to suit every taste.

Known as the "Neighborhood of the Gods," Plaka is nestled at the foot of the Acropolis and is one of Athens' oldest neighborhoods. Cobblestone streets, neoclassical architecture, and traditional tavernas characterize this charming area. Plaka is a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern amenities, making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists. Residents enjoy the convenience of being close to major archaeological sites, museums, and a plethora of cafes and boutiques.

If you're looking for a more upscale and cosmopolitan atmosphere, Kolonaki is the neighborhood for you. Situated on the southern slopes of Lycabettus Hill, Kolonaki is known for its high-end boutiques, sophisticated cafes, and upscale restaurants. The area attracts a mix of artists, intellectuals, and professionals, creating a dynamic and cultured community. With its proximity to the city center and luxurious amenities, Kolonaki is a favorite among those seeking an elegant urban lifestyle.

For a more alternative and bohemian experience, Exarchia stands out as a haven for artists, activists, and free spirits. Known for its vibrant street art, eclectic cafes, and lively music scene, Exarchia is a melting pot of creativity and individuality. While it may be considered unconventional, this neighborhood has a unique charm that draws in those who appreciate a more laid-back and artistic way of life.

If you prefer a quieter, more suburban setting, Kifisia, located in the northern suburbs of Athens, offers a tranquil escape. With tree-lined streets, large mansions, and green spaces, Kifisia exudes an air of elegance and exclusivity. The neighborhood is home to upscale shops, gourmet restaurants, and prestigious schools, making it a preferred choice for families and those seeking a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city center.

For those who love a lively nightlife scene and a trendy atmosphere, Psiri is the place to be. This once-industrial neighborhood has transformed into a hotspot for nightlife with its abundance of bars, clubs, and live music venues. During the day, Psiri retains its boho-chic vibe with street art, boutique shops, and cozy cafes. If you thrive on energy and excitement, Psiri offers an urban lifestyle that never sleeps. 

The biggest sports tourism event for professional and amateur athletes in Greece, the “3rd Santorini Experience”, is ready to welcome anyone who wants to boost their adrenaline rush by taking part in the running and swimming races.

Anyone who wishes to find themselves in magical Santorini between the 6th and 8th of October 2017, will have the opportunity to try out their abilities in open water swimming, which takes place on Saturday October 7th, in a 1.5 mile (2,4km) race from the volcano to the old port of Fira.

For those who prefer running, the schedule includes three different routes, on Sunday October 8th, which have as background the unique images of the volcano, overlooking the Caldera as well as the unique settlements of Imerovigli, Firostefani and Oia. More specifically, the 5 km running and dynamic walking, a 10 km route for long-distance runners and 15 km race for those who love stamina, technique and strength. All routes start at the desalination plant in Oia, with parts of trail track, and again end in Oia.

This year, for the first time there will be time recording for all runners and swimmers. 

Greek world champion of open water swimming, Kelly Araouzou, who will be attending, pointed out, “It is with great pleasure that I will be swimming in the beautiful waters of Santorini for the 3rd consecutive year. Santorini Experience is, to me, a unique experience as besides the athletic part that concerns swimming, the feeling of competing in one of the most famous places in the world is incredible! I strongly advise everyone to come and live this unique experience, on an island which is a tourist destination for the entire world all year long!”

Let it be noted that “Santorini Experience” was awarded in this year’s Ermis Awards with the Golden Award for the best sports event production for the previous year!

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

People willing to participate in the event may register here!

Photo Credit: Elias Lefas

 

Watch the official video teaser for Santorini Experience 2017!

 

Under the Auspices of the Greek National Tourism Organization and the Hellenic Swimming Federation.

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, White Pearl Villas, Central Fira Hotel, Memories Hotel, Loizos Stylish Residencies, Esperas Santorini, Sienna Residencies, Hotel Rivari Santorini
Official Travel Agent: Smile Acadimos
Communication Sponsor: XpatAthens.com

This summer the design platform It's all, oh so souvenir to me! and the cultural space T.A.F / The Art Foundation are joining in a multi-faceted project that finds a roof at Normanou street in Monastiraki. The new partnership begins with Oh!@TAF, the shop that was created on the premises of T.A.F to host the exciting collection of Greek design by It's all, oh so souvenir to me!

Just this month, T.A.F and oh so souvenir to me! had their first launch party that was an exhibition held for the fifth consecutive year. They presented 50 new proposals, enriching the already existing collection of It's all, oh so souvenir to me! which counts over 80 collaborations and hundreds of souvenir objects.

The idea behind ​​It's all, oh so souvenir to me! was born in the summer of 2013. Since then, four major exhibitions have been organized - Athens (July 2013, June 2014), Nisyros (September 2014), Benaki Museum (March 2015) and Thessaloniki (June 2016) - which gathered the proposals of more than 80 Greek designers on the redefinition and redesign of an extremely controversial object, the souvenir. What does it mean, what is proposed, how it is manufactured, how can it differ from what is offered by the tourist market?

What has emerged is a line of articles with Greece as a reference, that have a variety of functional qualities. The collection draws on the souvenir taking inspiration from different social, political and cultural themes, while displaying modern Greek identity by escaping the trivial patterns of the category, combining usability and innovation, inventiveness and humour.

On the design platform the creators come from the whole range of design. Architects, product designers, fashion and accessories designers, photographers, visual artists, ceramists, graphic designers, are constantly enriching it with the addition of new objects and new collaborations, always focusing on supporting and promoting Greek creation and creativity.

This summer, the Greek souvenir sails from Monastiraki to travel all over the world.

 

Opening hours: Sunday - Tuesday: 11.00 - 21.00 / Thursday - Saturday: 11.00 - 23.00
Address: Normanou 5, Monastiraki 105 55 Athens
Contact: shop@ohsosouvenir.com

For more information, please visit:

It gets its name, rizogalo, from its two main ingredients--rice (rizi) and milk (gala). Greek rice pudding is a thick and creamy treat, popular during Greek Carnival or Apokries.

 

To learn how to make Rizogalo, please visit: The Spruce

Archaeologists in Greece have discovered what they believe to be the oldest known excerpt of Homer’s epic poem “The Odyssey.”

Original source: Protothema
Translated by: XpatAthens