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XpatAthens

Friday, 20 February 2015 14:53

Karidopita – Greek Walnut Cake

It’s Friday! I feel like the days have been flying recently. I’ve been craving more and more sweets with this pregnancy – not sure if this means anything. Not just any kind of sweets – homemade, mouth watering desserts. The kinds I remember eating as a child, the ones only my mother can master. Today, I tried making Karidopita – aka Greek Walnut Cake. I urge you to try this recipe because: 1. it’s super easy and fast to make, 2. it’s healthy too (not a drop of flour in it).
 
Ingredients

• 8 Eggs
• 16 tbsp Sugar
• 16 tbsp Walnuts chopped
• 16 tbsp Breadcrumbs (plain not flavored)
• 1/2 cup Brandy
• 2 tbsp Vanilla Extract
• 1 tbsp Cinnamon
• 1 tbsp Lemon Zest

For the Syrup

• 3 1/2 cups Water
• 3 1/2 cups Sugar
• 1 cup Honey
• Lemon Peel of one lemon
• 1 Cinnamon Stick

Directions

Start with the syrup. Combine all the ingredients and bring to boil. Lower the heat and let cook until the syrup thickens a little (about 10-15 minutes). Turn off the heat and set aside to cool down. Syrup should be room temperature when poured over the cake.

Preheat the oven to 180 C.

Begin to separate the egg whites from the yokes and start beating the whites until a soft peak forms. Add the sugar and continue to mix. Next, add the yokes and stir lightly to combine. Add the breadcrumbs, walnuts, cinnamon, vanilla and mix well. Lastly add the lemon zest and brandy and lightly fold. Transfer the batter into a floured pan and bake for 40-45 minutes.

Take the cake out of the oven and pour syrup over it. Allow for the syrup to absorb before you cut the cake. Garnish with finely chopped walnuts serve.

I hope you like it! Have a great weekend!

xo

Vana

lepapierstudio.com
 
Greece Based Travel Bloggers Continue to Make a Social Media Impact - Putting Greece on the Map

The members of the first network of Greece based travel bloggers gathered in St. Irene Square in Athens to celebrate six months of teamwork during a dinner hosted by Manas Kouzina-Kouzina.
 
The blogger members consist of both expats and Greek bloggers with an international reach.  Since TBG started in Jan. 2015, it has grown to 20 members: 

“We’ve proven that teamwork matters and by working together we learn from each other. When we go and visit Greek destinations, our social media reach really helps promote touristic businesses in Greece,” says Rebecca Hall, one of the first members of TBG.  
 
Today, TBG’s social media reach to date is:
Facebook: 46,547 
Twitter: 18,841
Instagram: 8,135

During the six month celebration, members consistently shared, tweeted and posted the various traditional Greek dishes enjoyed at the event.   Mana’s Kouzina-Kouzina is one of the Greek businesses that successfully opened during the crisis specializing in magirefta or slow-cooked and baked traditional dishes hailing from all over specific villages, areas and the islands of Greece.  Homemade desserts were delivered from Thessaloniki by blogger member Amber Charmei, the publisher of Provocolate.
TBG has helped to promote authentic experiences working with various businesses including Discover Greek Culture, Scooterise, Alternative Tours of Athens, Livin Lovin, The Clumsies, Grecotel Pallas Athena, Keadivers, Sattas Group, ZanteHotels4U and more.  TBG has educational partnerships with Xyni Glyfada as well as the International Health Tourism Conference.  The professional networking group has also participated in blogger familiarization trips at the Montanema Handmade Village in Central Greece, Kea and Zakynthos islands.  
Each TBG member is based in Greece and blogs about a specific Greece travel related theme such as family travel, food, adventure travel and culture.  Each member must meet specific professional criteria to be approved as a beginner or full-member. Currently, TBG is working with more destinations and businesses to plan more events and travel excursions until the end of the year.

About Travel Bloggers Greece – TBG:  TBG is the first blogger networking group established in Greece. The members are Greeks and expats who live in Greece and cover Greece as a travel destination in various languages. They abide by ethical and professional standards and encourage positive cooperation, education and collaboration among their diverse membership.  TBG works with Greece-based businesses to help promote authentic travel and increased awareness of Greek travel destinations.

For more information please visit: Travel Bloggers Greece
An entirely different museum, digital and dedicated to Plato, the great philosopher of the antiquity, opened at the archaeological site of Plato's Academy in Athens.

The history of Plato and his work dominates the museum's exhibition, which is divided into three sections, unveiled in separate halls. Digital applications, video screening, maps and other material constitute the first museum of philosophy in Greece.

The museum's construction is also a part of the exhibition and its entrance is from the back of the building and works as a time capsule that travels the visitor back to Plato's era.

Another important element is its orientation which is directly connected with the archaeological site, the neighbourhood and the present. Moreover, the material used for the museum's construction is in total harmony with the surrounding environment.
 
The Digital Museum is in a new building in the Academy of Plato and comprises of a series of physical exhibits and multimedia applications with a variety of thematic areas. Through multiple levels of information consisting of texts, multimedia material and images, the visitor will be navigated both in the area (Academy of Plato and greater area) and in the "world of ideas". Beyond the emergence of the region and Platonism, the presentation aims at creating stimuli for discussion within and outside the area. The presentations are bilingual.

The exhibition takes a "step back" in time. It starts from the Academy of Plato in the current Athenian neighborhood. Along the route of the building's exterior, time counts counter clockwise and we see the archeological site's stages of revelation and discovery.

Located at Akadamia Platonos, Athens 10400, one of the oldest neighbourhoods of Athens,  the Plato Academy is a welcome reprieve to an area of Athens not particulalry well known for its beauty.

The museum is open daily from 09:00 - 16:00, except Mondays. Entrance is free. To learn more, please visit: Plato Academy.

Sources: The Toc and Plato Academy

Tuesday, 23 November 2021 07:00

Top Breakfast & Brunch Spots In Athens

Greeks aren't known for their love of breakfast, but with so many great spots opening up all over the city, the brunch craze has hit Athens for the past few years! Here is a terrific list of excellent brunch and late breakfast spots that will satisfy even the most discerning guests!


 

New York Sandwiches

New York Sandwitches
@newyorksandwiches_

New York is not only relevant when it comes to the aesthetic of this place, but also its mouthwatering dishes. Famous for its rich weekend brunch menu, New York sandwiches serves a variety of American classics, including grilled bread with miniature tomatoes and mushrooms, French toast, eggs Benedict, American pancakes, bagels with various fillings, burgers, salads, and, of course, New York cheesecake or praline pancake for dessert. If you're thirsty, try a cup of filter coffee, a glass of fresh juice, or a Bloody Mary. 

Address: Sinopis 3, Ampelokipoi
Telephone: 21 0777 8475

The Handlebar

The Handlebar
@the_handlebar_cycle_place

Established by a group of cycling enthusiasts, the Handlebar is the first cycling cafe in Greece. Located in the heart of Athens, in the scenic neighborhood of Psirri, this cafe has a European beauty to it, and its unique design incorporates retro, street, and pop elements. While you wait for your bike to be repaired you may enjoy some delicious London breakfast at exceptionally affordable pricing. In addition to serving wonderful breakfast and nice meals, it also provides a variety of cultural activities

Address: 8 Melanthiou street, Psirri
Telephone: 21 1409 3002

Bel Ray

Bel Ray Bar
@yummyaddictions_

This corner snack bar in Koukaki serves a sumptuous Sunday brunch with comfort food options, such as the Croque Madame with smoked ham, tomato, and Swiss cheese, wonderful pancakes, vegetable tart, French onion soup, freshly cut salads, as well as delicious juices and outstanding drinks, in keeping with the latest food trends. The modern ambiance and delicious, yet healthy, flavors will make you want to visit again and again. 

Address: 88 Falirou & G. Georgiou street, Koukaki
Telephone: 21 3032 6450

Odori

Odori
@odori_vermuteria

With its nice outdoor quiet area, this place serves the best authentic Italian pizza in the city! Brunch options are plenty on the menu. Anything with eggs is fantastic, especially pizza and traditional peinirli which are both great choices for brunch!

Address: 2 Skouleniou, Athens
Telephone: 21 0331 4674

Kitchen Lab
@kitchenlab_official

If you're in the mood for a beach stroll, a visit to this place is a fantastic option. The delicious dishes all have chef Akis Petretzikis' signature. Go for the eggs Benedict with turkey. Simple and tasty. Protein shakes are also a great alternative for those of you looking to maintain your fitness. The granola yogurt (for the health-conscious) and, of course, the burgers (for the more adventurous) are both delicious.

Address: 26 Lazaraki, Glyfada
Telephone: 21 0968 1126
Friday, 10 November 2017 10:37

September 12 - Welcoming Fall In Athens

In this issue, Greece is featured as a 365-day destination and Greek tourism ranks 14th in the world. You can see Athens through the eyes of a local and learn about a foodie haven called Kerameikos!
 
Please click HERE to view this issue of our newsletter!

Remember to stay connected with us through our weekly newsletterFacebook, and Twitter!
Thursday, 21 October 2021 07:00

Top European Cities To Visit In Winter

When someone thinks of holidays, the sunkissed summer season is undoubtedly one of the first things that spring to mind. However, although we love summer, we're for embracing the colder weather and making the most of the chillier months. The winter season has something magical and romantic about it and the cities listed below are just more atmospheric around this time of the year!

Vienna

Vienna
@nois7

The Austrian capital has so much to offer in winter. You can warm up with hot chocolate and sachertorte, a local chocolate cake, watch free outdoor opera simulcasts, listen to classical holiday concerts, and take photos of Schönbrunn Palace and St. Charles Church. During Christmas, the city's squares transform into magical Christmas markets, featuring endless stalls selling souvenirs and hot mulled wine.

Prague
Prague
@jakubsnajberg

A light sprinkling of snow truly transforms Prague into a charming winter paradise. There's so much to do from admiring the Prague castle, to marveling at the Lamplights on Charles Bridge and discovering the city's Christmas markets where even the most discerning traveler will indulge in the trdelník (fried dough) and mulled wine sold in festive kioks.

Budapest
Budapest
@adamhliva

Hungary's capital truly comes to life in winter! Its Christmas markets and outdoor ice skating rinks create the perfect winter wonderland, while the local hot spas and thermal baths offer a twist on outdoor bathing. Imagine exploring the city, seeing the Hungarian Parliament, admiring the Danube, and taking in the sheer beauty of the Hungarian State Opera House. Could you think of a better way to spend a chilly day? 

Amsterdam 
Amsterdam
@oceanvolta

When dusted in snowflakes, the Dutch capital looks like a fairytale, making for a stunningly romantic backdrop to any visit. You can enjoy the breathtaking views of the snow-covered canals which sometimes freeze over, transforming into a huge rink. Also, from November through January, the annual Amsterdam Light Festival sees spectacular light installations adorn canals, streets, and landmarks.

Edinburg
Edinburg
@pandeyrr

The Scottish capital is stunning in all seasons, and even when it rains, it retains its allure. However, Edinburgh goes all out not only for Christmas, with the steep pathways leading up to the castle looking especially stunning, but also for the New Year. Come see how the Scots party and celebrate Hogmanay at this time of year. Prepare for the torchlight parade down the Royal Mile by getting a torch and learning the lines to "Auld Lang Syne".
Helping kids explore their potential is the path to the greatest discoveries mankind can achieve. That is what the Stavros Niarchos Foundation strives to support through Field of Life, a new initiative coming to the Athens suburb of Nikaia to help every child start their own exciting adventure.

Field of Life was born out of the common vision of ISN with Panagiotis Giannakis to create a multipurpose space offering sports, educational, and recreational activities to all young people. The organization aspires to provide a safe refuge and a creative home base for every child and teenager, especially those who have limited access to such opportunities.

A brand-new area of ​​5,300 sq.m. will be built in the Nikaia neighborhood of Athens, where Panagiotis Giannakis was born and raised, to host Field of Life’s activities. The facility will comprise indoor and outdoor recreation areas and study spaces, sports facilities including a swimming pool, basketball and football courts, entertainment halls, a music production studio, and the organization’s offices.

The Field of Life aims to offer children aged 6-17 development opportunities, valuable experiences, and a series of character empowerment skills such as self-discipline and self-confidence.

After school, children will be able to visit Field of Life in Nikaia and take part in the programs. A hot meal will be waiting for the children upon arrival, and afterward, teachers will help them with their homework. Then it’s time to play; basketball, volleyball, running, climbing, swimming, and a lot more await.

The facility is scheduled to start welcoming children in the first half of 2024. Until then, a series of organized events are expected to be hosted throughout Nikaia.

For more information, please visit: gipedozois.org


Petros and Myrto exchanged vows of eternal love and loyalty in a truly unique and original environment: underwater, at the bottom of the sea off the island of Alonnisos. The first underwater civil wedding ceremony took place on the Sporades island on Monday, August 29, upon the initiative of the municipality.

Present at the ceremony were next to the couple and Alonnisos mayor Petros Vafinis, the bridesmaids, diving instructors, and an underwater cameraman. The festive decoration in the shape of a heart could not fail, of course.

Bride Myrto wore a wedding dress, while the groom was dressed half official, half relaxed; the rest of the …crowd was dressed scuba diving conform.

The entire civic marriage procedure was followed by the book through the use of special waterproof surfaces.

After exchanging their vows, Petros and Myrto removed their masks for their first kiss as newlyweds.

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

 
The dawn of a new year often brings with it a flurry of resolutions, but let’s face it: most fail before February rolls around. For businesses, the stakes are higher—half-hearted resolutions can waste resources and miss opportunities. Instead of recycling tired strategies, why not approach this year with a fresh mindset? Here’s how to make your New Year’s resolutions work for your business in a unique and meaningful way.


1. Stop Setting Goals—Start Identifying Problems First

Before you set lofty resolutions, pause and reflect: What problems need solving in your business?

Once you identify problems, your resolutions become solutions. For instance, instead of saying, "Increase customer retention," resolve to "Identify and address bottlenecks in our customer journey." Problem-solving is far more actionable than generic goal-setting.

2. Think in Themes, Not Targets

Traditional resolutions are often rigid and numerical: "Increase revenue by 20%" or "Hire five new employees." Instead, consider adopting themes for the year—broad areas of focus that guide your decisions. For example:
  • Year of Efficiency: Streamline processes and cut unnecessary costs.
  • Year of Connection: Strengthen relationships with clients, partners, and employees.
  • Year of Experimentation: Test bold ideas, new markets, or innovative products.
Themes allow for adaptability and creativity while maintaining strategic focus.

3. Resolutions Are Dead—Experimentation Is In

Why make a single resolution when you can experiment? Choose one aspect of your business, like marketing or customer engagement, and commit to running small, manageable experiments throughout the year.
For instance:
  • Test new social media platforms for engagement.
  • Experiment with remote work policies to improve productivity.
  • Pilot a subscription model for one of your services.
Track what works and scale it up. Think of this as a scientific approach to growth—data-driven and results-oriented.

4. Flip the Script: Resolve What Not to Do

Sometimes, the most effective resolutions are about subtraction, not addition. Ask yourself:
  • What activities or processes are draining resources without delivering results?
  • What meetings could be eliminated?
  • What products or services no longer align with your mission?
Make this the year of strategic pruning. Letting go of inefficiencies frees up time and energy to focus on what truly matters.

5. Put People at the Heart of Resolutions

Resolutions often focus on numbers, systems, or outputs, but the true engine of any business is its people. This year, resolve to invest in them:
  • Create a "personal growth fund" for employees to spend on courses, workshops, or hobbies.
  • Host monthly brainstorming sessions where every team member can pitch ideas.
  • Recognize and celebrate achievements—big or small—regularly.
A motivated, engaged team will help your business thrive far beyond 2025.

6. The 80/20 Approach: Leverage Your Superpowers

The Pareto Principle—80% of results come from 20% of efforts—can revolutionize your resolutions. Instead of trying to fix everything, focus on the few areas where your business already excels and double down.
For example:
  • If word-of-mouth brings in most of your clients, resolve to amplify customer referrals.
  • If your team shines in creativity, invest in innovative campaigns.
  • If a specific product dominates sales, explore complementary offerings.
Play to your strengths, and let them work harder for you.

7. Celebrate Imperfection

Here’s the thing: resolutions aren’t about perfection; they’re about progress. Instead of rigidly sticking to a resolution that’s not working, give yourself permission to adapt. Build a culture where failing fast and learning from mistakes is celebrated.

At the end of the year, success isn’t just about achieving every resolution—it’s about growing, learning, and building a better version of your business.

8. The One-Word Challenge

If all else feels overwhelming, simplify your resolutions into a single, powerful word that encapsulates your business’s focus for the year. Words like "growth," "innovation," or "trust" can serve as guiding principles for every decision you make.
Wednesday, 18 February 2015 13:08

A Day Trip In Central Greece

Greece is famous for its beautiful beaches and islands. But it also has unique landscapes on the mainland. Central Greece is not a well know destination for travelling. It is 2 hours away from Athens and has a lot to offer. One of my favorite day trips includes a visit to the archaeological site of Delphi, eating and swimming at Antikyra and an evening visit to the Monastery of Osios Loukas which is a World Heritage Monument of UNESCO. Rent a car and follow me on this day trip!

Delphi is about two hours away from Athens. The scenery of the archaeological site is really unique. Ancient Greeks thought that this was the center of the Earth (“omfalos” = bellybutton, as it was called). The famous Oracle of Pythia, the Temple of Apollo and the museum are a must to visit. Wear a hat, take a bottle of water with you and start climbing the main road in the archaeological area. The Stadium is really high, but the view is totally worth it. Find some shade and enjoy the view, take a few breaths of ancient history.

To read more, please visit blog.visitgreece.gr

By Christos Loukas

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