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XpatAthens

Greece’s highly anticipated sports tourism and wellness event, Navarino Challenge, returns for its 13th year, taking place from May 9 to 11, 2025, at Costa Navarino and Pylos. The event, which consistently brings together amateur and professional athletes alongside Olympians and world champions, continues to inspire with its timeless message: “sports unites people”.

This year’s program features more than 60 activities and 20 Olympic sports, offering experiences for people of all ages and fitness levels. At the same time, through specially designed activities, participants will have the opportunity to explore the Messinian nature, local gastronomy, and the region’s cultural heritage, highlighting the importance of experiential tourism. All activities will take place at The Westin Resort Costa Navarino, W Costa Navarino and The Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort, providing an unforgettable wellness and sports experience.


Read HERE the full schedule of the event!

The advanced technology of Miele appliances meets tradition

The beloved action of the traditional and authentic Messinian cooking experience by ladies from the region, with the support of Miele, returns to Navarino Challenge, offering a unique culinary experience full of taste, emotion and authenticity. Messinian cooks share traditional recipes and secrets passed down from generation to generation, bringing to the fore the rich cultural and food heritage of the region. Through live cooking demonstrations and tastings, visitors have the opportunity to connect with the heart of local tradition through the simplicity and care of home cooking in Miele's state-of-the-art appliances.

At the same time, you will be able to enjoy a unique wine tasting experience, in a sophisticated activity that combines the quality of Miele, the elegance of SIXT and the fine varieties of Alpha Estate.

Track & field on the sand with Periklis Iakovakis

A unique athletic experience for the whole family awaits at the Beachathlon powered by Chiquita, as part of Navarino Challenge 2025. These beach-based track & field games are specially designed for parents and children aged 6 to 13, combining the joy of movement with team participation and wellness. The activity is led by Olympian and European Champion in the 400m hurdles, Periklis Iakovakis, who brings his expertise to a program full of energy, fun, and creative exercise. Participation is carefully structured to ensure high-quality engagement and personalized guidance for all attendees.

At the same time, Chiquita Padel Tournament at the Mouratoglou Tennis Center Costa Navarino brings the excitement of padel to one of the region’s most modern and impressive courts. Featuring both experienced players and rising talents, the tournament offers unique moments of intense competition, strategy, and athletic excellence. As padel continues to grow in popularity, this event provides an opportunity for players of all levels to take part and experience the thrill of the game in a stunning setting.

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Discover Pickleball with Michalis Triantafyllidis!

Navarino Challenge introduces the rapidly growing sport of Pickleball, led by volleyball legend Michalis Triantafyllidis. Participants of all ages will learn the basic techniques and play in real game conditions, enjoying a fun and dynamic experience!

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First steps in tennis for young athletes

Tennis Induction powered by JYSK offers young athletes aged 6–9 and 10-13 the opportunity to be introduced to the world of tennis with the guidance of the expert coaches at the Mouratoglou Tennis Center Costa Navarino. The aim of this activity is to help children become familiar with the basic techniques of tennis through games and exercises that enhance coordination and teamwork. It’s a perfect way for young athletes to discover their passion for tennis while spending creative time in a safe and supportive environment.

Après Tennis Cocktail by Grey Goose

After the game, unwind in style at the Après-Tennis Cocktail by Grey Goose Vodka– a refined experience that blends genuine enjoyment with the unmatched quality of Grey Goose, the super-premium vodka renowned for its purity and taste. It’s the perfect way to end your day at the Navarino Challenge, with signature cocktails that elevate the moment.

Vikos natural mineral water: Natural Strength and Hydration for the Champions of Tomorrow

Vikos natural mineral water, as the Official Water of Navarino Challenge, stands by the younger generations, offering refreshment, hydration, and natural revitalization at the purest stages of their journey. Supporting the 1km children’s races (up to 9 years old and 10–14 years old) powered by Vikos, this water from the heart of Epirus encourages the joy of participation, sports, and a healthy lifestyle—an experience deeply connected to wellness and movement from the earliest years. With the presence of Olympian Periklis Iakovakis, the message becomes even stronger: the future begins with health, energy, and Vikos natural mineral water.

Explore the stunning Voidokilia by bike!

The Bike Tour at Voidokilia, in collaboration with Moraitis Outdoors, offers participants the chance to explore the natural beauty of the region by bike, passing through breathtaking landscapes and beaches while enjoying the magnificent view of Voidokilia. This activity is perfect for everyone, regardless of skill level, combining physical exercise with the enjoyment of nature. Guided by the experienced team from Moraitis Outdoors, this cycling experience promises an unforgettable adventure for lovers of the outdoors and sports.

Live the experience of skateboarding!

With the support of Free Movement Skateboarding, Navarino Challenge offers everyone the opportunity to experience the sport, learn techniques and have fun safely, in an environment that fosters confidence and team spirit at Pylos-Nestor Municipality.

For watersports enthusiasts, the experience continues with Moraitis Watersports offering exciting activities such as windsurfing, wakeboarding, kitesurfing, and more, with experienced instructors for water action and fun!

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The authentic taste of Messinia in Navarino Challenge

Navarino Icons participates for the second consecutive year as Authentic Flavor Partner in Navarino Challenge, offering authentic traditional Messinian products, made from raw materials of local producers and inspired by the rich gastronomic tradition and history of Messinia. Through its participation, Navarino Icons seeks to highlight and promote the Greek Mediterranean diet, which is a global standard of healthy and balanced nutrition, recognized for its valuable health and wellness benefits.

Messinian Nest is a unique hospitality destination that offers high quality accommodation in the authentic nature of Messinia. It is the right place for guests seeking relaxation, tranquility and authentic experiences, against a backdrop of a landscape that exudes serenity and authentic Greek hospitality.

Alongside its commitment to healthy and strong nutrition, this year, for the first time, TO VAZAKI is taking on the role of Official Healthy Catering Partner in Navarino Challenge. With an emphasis on quality raw materials and authentic taste, TO VAZAKI promotes a balanced and healthy lifestyle.  

Furthermore, the leading transport company of Messinia Pilia Express, takes care of the comfortable and safe transportation of the products during the Navarino Challenge, serving all the routes of the event with reliability and consistency.

1 km run “ALL UNIQUE ALL EQUAL” powered by MOTODYNAMICS Group

Navarino Challenge includes running routes that appeal to all ages and fitness levels, inviting young and old alike to an unforgettable sporting experience. The programme features the participatory action “ALL UNIQUE ALL EQUAL”, with the support of the association for disabled people DiaforoZO, promoting the message of equality and acceptance. Also, the entries include 21.1 km races powered by The North Face, 10 km powered by Dimello Coffee, 5 km powered by Miele, while for the little ones there are the free 1 km children's races (for children 10-14 years old and up to 9 years old), powered by Vikos. Registration is easy through the special participation form, here.

Athens Medical Group participates again this year as Official Medical Partner of the event, offering comprehensive medical coverage services, according to the highest standards of care, on all routes of the race.

Shirts that combine style and sustainability

The official shirts of the event are provided this year by 42K Running, the rapidly growing Spanish brand, distributed exclusively in Greece by SportAdore. 42K has a large collection of technical clothing and accessories made from recycled raw materials. So, this year Navarino Challenge participants will have the opportunity to try perfectly technical and sustainable shirts, in contemporary designs, which additionally carry the tradition of the region with the Gripas design.

All running races are co-organized with the Messiniakos Gymnastic Club and the Hellenic Athletics Association (EAS SEGAS) Peloponnese Region.

Book your accommodation package now

Experience three unforgettable days of exciting outdoor sports activities for all ages. Secure the complete participation package and enjoy a unique experience combining sport and culture. For more information about the accommodation packages at The Westin Resort Costa Navarino, W Costa Navarino, and The Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort, you can send your email to booking(at)navarinochallenge.com or call Vita N Travel at +30 210 3249070. See the packages, here.

Platinum Sponsor is Miele.
Gold Sponsor of the event is MOTODYNAMICS Group.
Silver Sponsors are JYSK, KORRES, Melissa, The North Face and Chiquita.
Strategic Healthcare Sponsor is Novo Nordisk.
Official Water is Vikos natural mineral water.
Official Hospitality Sponsors are Costa Navarino and the hotels W Costa Navarino, The Westin Resort Costa Navarino, and The Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort.
Official Sports Supplier is 42K.
Bronze Sponsors are Dimello Coffee, Trace ‘n Chase, Patron, and Pilia Express.
Premium Mobility Partner of the event is SIXT, member of MOTODYNAMICS Group.
Οfficial Partners of Navarino Challenge are Messinian Nest, Pylos – Nestor Municipality.
Authentic Flavor Partner is Navarino Icons.
Official Optics Partner are Kois Optics. 
Official Healthy Catering Partner is TO VAZAKI.
Official Supporters are Alpha Estate, Messinian Spa, Feeju, Εlite Boats, Evenly, Messinia Transfer, SportAdore, Feel Good, Vlaha, Rania's Flower, Karalis Beach Hotel, Karalis City Hotel, Silk Gonos, and Memmos.
Οfficial Basketball Partner is Wilson.
Medical Partner is Athens Medical Group.
Premium TV Partner is ΣΚΑΪ.
Premium Media Partner is Liquid Media.
Sustainability Partner is π³ = Plastic Pollution Prevention.
Educational Partner is University of Piraeus.
Athletic Partners are Angelic Yoga Arts, Breath Pilates Studio, F45 Barrio Salamanca, Falcons Football Academy, FitnessArt, Free Movement Skateboarding, Giannakis Academy, Joint Athens, Moraitis Outdoors, Moraitis Watersports, Mouratoglou Tennis Center Costa Navarino, Navarino Golf Academy, Pilates by Mandy, Red Swim Academy, Swim O’Clock and Triantafyllidis Beach Arena. 

The event is assisted by Vita N Travel, and Humanity Greece.


Τhe special offers and discounts of Discount Partners valid during the event can be found HERE!

 
Navarino Challenge is held under the Auspices of the Ministry of Tourism, the Greek National Tourism Organization, and the Region of Peloponnese, while the organization and sports production is managed by ActiveMedia Group.
 
#navarinochallenge #costanavarino #sportsunitespeople #eatwell #runwell #livewell

Duration: 15 – 31 May, 2025
Hours: Thursday – Saturday, 17.00 -20.00
Opening: Thursday, 15 May, 18.00

FokiaNou Art Space is pleased to present the fourth edition of the annual group exhibition “Flower Power”, an artistic tribute to the beauty, resilience and timeless symbolism of flowers. The exhibition emerged from an open call to artists, who responded with works covering a wide range of techniques and materials, from painting and photography to sculpture, installations and mixed media. Curated by Panagiotis Voulgaris and Mary Cox, the exhibition hosts a multitude of artistic approaches, depicting the the diverse interpretations and emotional connections artists have with floral themes—ranging from vibrant representations of nature to abstract, conceptual explorations.

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Now that we are in May, the month of flowering and rebirth, Athens is flooded with images and aromas of nature. In this festive and optimistic atmosphere, the exhibition “Flower Power 4” comes at the right time, inviting the public to an artistic walk full of light, sensitivity and creativity. Flowers, symbols of transience but also of the beauty of the ephemeral, acquire new meaning through the eyes of contemporary artists. 

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Participating artists: 

Bodarch (P. Petrou and S. Chatzipanayotou), Lorenz Bögle, Seyran Deniz, Panagiotis Ferentinos, Penny Geka, Katerina Kokkinaki, Dwra Konsta, Vani Koronaki, Kalliopi Kouklinou, Maria Claudia Litsas, Jennie London, George Manouzas, Pandora Mouriki, Despoina Pantazi, Gabriela Papaefthimiou, Apostolos Papageorgiou, Kristel Pent, Geeta Roopnarine, Natalia Ryapolova, Efi Seitanidou, Stella Sevastopoulos, Georgia Maggy Touliatou, Marios Trichas, Georg Vesper, Lisa Waldner

In an era where work no longer ties us to a single location, Greece has opened its doors to remote professionals seeking both productivity and lifestyle.

If your dream is to answer emails from a seaside café or take Zoom calls with a view of the Aegean, Greece’s Digital Nomad Residence Permit might be the key to unlocking your ideal work-life balance.



What Is the Digital Nomad Residence Permit?


This permit is specifically designed for remote workers, freelancers, and digital entrepreneurs who use ICT (Information and Communication Technologies) to work for clients or employers outside of Greece.

While the Digital Nomad Visa allows initial entry into the country, the residence permit is what you’ll need to extend your stay long-term and enjoy greater mobility and legal security.

Who Can Apply?

To be eligible, applicants must prove they work remotely for clients or employers based outside Greece. Key requirements include:
  • Employment Status: You must be either self-employed or employed by a non-Greek company.
  • Income: A minimum monthly income of €3,500 is required, with higher thresholds for dependents.
  • Documentation: Necessary documentation includes a valid entry visa or eligibility for a visa exemption, a full medical care certificate, and a residential lease or property purchase contract.
  • Supporting Documents: Additional Documents: The amount of sufficient resources is evidenced: a) by the employment contract or project contract or proof of employment relationship, in the case of dependent labor, services, or project, and b) Statements from your  bank
  • Translation: All non-Greek documents must be translated as required.
  • Family Members: You can bring your spouse and children, provided you submit the necessary marriage and birth certificates.
Digital Nomad Visa or Residence Permit: What’s the Difference?

There are two main options, and each serves a different need:

A. Digital Nomad Residence Permit

Best for: Non-EU citizens already in Greece or entering with a visa
Validity: 2 years, renewable electronically
Fees: €1,000 admin fee
Application: Handled by the One-Stop Service of the Ministry of Migration and Asylum

Need help managing the paperwork? Let Expat Law’s digital nomad visa specialists handle the process for you—from translations to legal representation. No in-person appointments required.


B. Digital Nomad Visa

Best for: New arrivals needing an entry visa
Validity: Up to 12 months
Application: Submit through a Greek consulate in your home country
Fees: €75 visa fee + €150 admin charge
Limitations: Renewal requires exiting and reapplying—less flexible than the residence permit

If you're planning to live and work remotely from Greece long-term, the residence permit offers greater stability and freedom of movement across the Schengen Area.

Why Choose Greece as Your Remote Work Base?

Greece offers a blend of Mediterranean lifestyle and modern digital infrastructure, making it a top choice for nomads. You’ll enjoy:
  • Affordable living costs
  • High-speed internet in most urban centers
  • Warm climate and natural beauty
  • Access to EU-standard healthcare
  • Vibrant international communities in cities like Athens, Thessaloniki, and Chania
And yes, you really can take a client call with the Acropolis in the background.

Quick Tips for a Smooth Application
  • Double-check translations: Greek bureaucracy is strict about official documentation.
  • Secure housing early: A signed lease or property ownership is required.
  • Start early: Processing times vary and legal support can help prevent delays.
  • Work with professionals: The laws evolve, and having experts on your side makes the journey smoother.
Let’s Help You Make the Move
 
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, freelancer, or remote employee, Greece’s Digital Nomad visa & permit offer an incredible chance to live and work in Europe legally, while enjoying the best of island life, urban exploration, and cross-border travel.

Expat Law specializes in supporting digital nomads making Greece their base. Contact Kyveli Zahou at kyveli@expatlaw.gr for expert legal assistance tailored to your situation.

Got questions or need general guidance? We are here to help too—reach out and we’ll point you in the right direction.
Greece continues to attract global investors, retirees, and families through one of the most accessible Golden Visa programs in Europe. Known for its beauty, lifestyle, and strategic location in the heart of the Mediterranean, Greece offers a residency-by-investment opportunity that combines flexibility, affordability, and long-term benefits. Here's what to know in 2025.
 


What Is the Greek Golden Visa?


The Greek Golden Visa grants non-EU citizens and their families the right to reside in Greece through a qualifying investment, most commonly in real estate. In return, applicants receive a five-year renewable residency permit with minimal physical presence requirements. Better yet, visa holders can travel freely within the Schengen Zone, making Greece a strategic gateway to Europe.

Key Features of the Greek Golden Visa

Greece’s program is considered one of the most cost-effective in Europe, and its perks extend well beyond affordability. These are a few reasons why it remains a top pick:
  • Low Entry Point: Starting at just €250,000, Greece offers one of the lowest investment threshold among Golden Visa programs in the EU.
  • Visa-Free Schengen Travel: Holders can enjoy unrestricted travel throughout the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period, without needing additional visas.
  • Renewal and Validity: The Golden Visa is initially valid for five years and can be renewed every five years, provided the investment is maintained. There’s no requirement to reside in Greece to renew the visa, which is unique compared to other residency programs.
  • Family-Friendly: The Greek Golden Visa extends to the investor’s immediate family, including: 
    - Spouse or partner (if civil partnerships are recognized in the applicant's country of origin)
    - Children under 21 (extendable under specific conditions)
    - Parents of both the applicant and their spouse
    - This family inclusion makes it an attractive option for those seeking residency for their entire household.
  • No Residency Requirement: You can maintain your visa without living in Greece, a unique feature not offered by all EU programs. 
  • Pathway to Citizenship: While the Golden Visa provides a route to Greek residency, obtaining Greek citizenship is a separate process. To apply for citizenship, you typically need to live in Greece for 7 years continuously and meet other criteria such as language proficiency, demonstrating ties to Greece, and passing a citizenship test. Learn more about the Greek citizenship process!
Investment Options in 2025

While real estate remains the most common route, Greece now offers multiple pathways to residency through investment. Updated criteria provide flexibility based on the type and location of the investment:
  • Real Estate Purchase: The updated Greek Golden Visa rules introduce tiered investment thresholds for real estate. In sought-after locations, the minimum property investment has risen to €800,000. For other areas, the threshold is €400,000, while the €250,000 minimum still applies to heritage restorations or conversions of commercial properties into residential homes. These changes aim to balance market demand with preservation and development opportunities. This is the most popular route for Golden Visa applicants due to Greece’s attractive property market and affordable prices.
  • Long-Term Leases: A five-year lease in a tourist accommodation (furnished residence or hotel) qualifies.
  • Startup & Business Investments: Invest in an innovative Greek startup or registered enterprise to gain eligibility.
  • Capital-Based Investments: Includes Greek government bonds, mutual funds, or fixed capital contributions, typically requiring a minimum of €500,000.
The Application Process: Step by Step 
  1. Choose Your Investment
    Select the most suitable option based on your goals—real estate, financial products, or a business venture.
  2. Prepare Documentation
    You’ll need valid identification, proof of funds, background checks, and health insurance.
  3. Complete the Investment
    Finalize the purchase or agreement and gather supporting legal documents.
  4. Submit Your Application
    You can apply in person or via legal representation through Greek immigration authorities.
  5. Receive Residency Permit
    If approved, your five-year Golden Visa will be issued, with eligibility for renewal as long as the investment is maintained.
Living the Mediterranean Dream

Beyond the bureaucratic benefits, the Greek Golden Visa opens the door to a high-quality lifestyle. With year-round sunshine, a rich cultural heritage, excellent healthcare, and a relaxed pace of life, Greece is a lifestyle upgrade. Families also benefit from access to the public education system and affordable private international schools.

Take the First Step Toward Your Greek Residency

With decades of experience in immigration and real estate law, our trusted partners at Expat Law have helped many investors secure their Greek Golden Visas efficiently and painlessly.

For tailored advice from a legal expert who knows this process inside and out, contact Kyveli Zahou directly at kyveli@expatlaw.gr.

Have a question or need help getting started? Feel free to reach out to us! We’re here to connect you with the right resources and make your path to Greek residency as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Tuesday, 06 May 2025 14:39

Group Greek Lessons

Hello ladies! I’m Angeliki, the content creator for Xpat Athens. I’ve been serving the local community for many years, and I’ve decided to blend this with my studies. I’m a psychology graduate and postgraduate, specializing in children’s mental health, but my university program also included extensive language lessons. I am highly proficient in both Greek and Ancient Greek, with a full understanding of the language.

My passion is seeing people learn to speak and understand my mother tongue, the language I hold so dear. That’s why I’m excited to offer Greek lessons for foreigners with a twist! Think of it as a more relaxed, community-focused way of learning. We’ll get together, chat, practice, and learn in a laid-back environment—where the focus is not just on speaking but truly understanding the language.

I’m strict but fair because I want you to actually learn and progress, not just say a few phrases.

📧 If this sounds like something you’d be interested in, send an email to: angie.vourliotaki@gmail.com. We’ve already had great interest, and we’re in the process of dividing the groups. Let me know your level of Greekmother tongue, and preferred areas for meet-ups.

Looking forward to helping you master Greek in a fun and engaging way!
Tuesday, 06 May 2025 13:03

Celebrity International Movers

Since 1986, Celebrity has been a trusted name in the relocation world, offering top-quality, tailor-made services for individuals, families, and businesses across Greece and beyond. With headquarters in Pallini, Attica, and a strong global network of expert partners, this family-run company blends international standards with a warm, personal touch.

From full household moves and corporate relocations to delicate fine art transport and secure storage solutions, Celebrity handles each project with care, precision, and professionalism. Their experienced team works closely with clients to create smooth, stress-free moving experiences—no matter the destination.

Whether you're relocating from abroad to Greece, moving office spaces, or simply need a safe place to store your belongings, Celebrity is equipped to handle it all. They serve all of Greece, including the islands, and specialize in those little details that make a big difference like helping you find a school, a fitness center, or temporary housing as part of their relocation support.

Services Include:
  • Domestic & International Household Removals

  • Full Relocation Services (housing, schools, lifestyle support)

  • Office Moves with strategic planning and timeline adherence

  • Specialized Transports: Fine Art, Pet Moves, Exhibitions, and Vehicles

  • Short- & Long-Term Storage in modern, secure facilities

Why Celebrity?

Because moving isn’t just about getting from A to B; it’s about peace of mind. With decades of experience and a genuine passion for what they do they are truly the movers who care.

📧 contact@celebrity.gr  
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Tuesday, 06 May 2025 13:12

Wellness Retreats Greece

Founded by two passionate and experienced women, Wellness Retreats Greece is born from a shared vision of promoting healthy, conscious living for locals and travelers alike.

Wellness Retreats Greece is a growing wellness community connecting individuals, professionals, and companies with curated wellness experiences and expert consulting. Expanding beyond the traditional retreat platform, WRG comes as a transformative space for growth, healing, connection, and community. Whether you seek personal renewal, want to enhance workplace well-being, are eager to participate in inspiring wellness events, or need expert guidance to bring your own vision to life, we’re here to support you.

Our mission is to connect like-minded individuals and businesses, foster meaningful experiences, support local communities and establish Greece as a leading destination for wellness and holistic well-being. 
 
Our Services Include:

🌸 Curated retreats, workshops & gatherings
happening around Greece designed to rejuvenate the whole self.
🧘‍♀️ Signature wellness experiences
designed to inspire personal growth, healing & renewal.

🌿 Tailored corporate wellness programs crafted to enhance employee well-being, productivity & team cohesion.
🤝 Guidance and support helping you effortlessly create and host your own wellness events in Greece.
 
Expert consulting services help businesses design and refine their wellness offerings, ensuring they deliver the right services to attract and engage their target audience.

WRG Xpat Listing

Whether you're seeking personal transformation, looking to enhance corporate well-being, or need expert guidance in organizing wellness activities, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Let us help you connect with like-minded individuals and businesses, while fostering meaningful experiences that uplift local communities.


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A remote Greek island, a series of mysterious fires, and one undercover FBI agent caught between love, danger, and a burning desire for truth.

When Nick Damigos lands on a quiet Aegean island to investigate a series of arsons, he’s not expecting to save a truffle-sniffing dog or fall for a local bartender who may be hiding dangerous secrets. As Nick digs deeper into the island’s web of grudges, betrayals, and long-buried secrets, the line between ally and enemy blurs. The next fire could destroy more than just property—it could burn everything down.

Nick must confront his own buried secrets while trying to save the village from destruction. Will he uncover the truth in time, or will the island go up in flames, consumed by vengeance and heartbreak?

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Set during the peak of Greece's refugee crisis, Fire on the Island is a thrilling mystery that dives into the complexities of community, trust, and survival. Beautifully written and emotionally charged, the novel paints a poignant picture of a village in crisis while highlighting the personal and social challenges of contemporary Greek-island life. It asks: how far would you go to protect what you love?

This is the perfect summer read for fans of gripping mysteries, rich settings, and complex characters. Fire on the Island will keep you hooked from start to finish, offering a compelling escape to the sun-drenched shores of Greece.

About the Author
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Timothy Jay Smith is a critically acclaimed author with a lifelong passion for Greece. His travels and experiences, from working as a sociologist in Greece to aiding refugees on Lesvos, have inspired his immersive, character-driven stories. An award-winning novelist, screenwriter, and playwright, Smith’s work has garnered numerous accolades, including the Gold Medal in the Faulkner-Wisdom Competition for Fire on the Island not to mention that his screenplay adaptation of it was named Best Indie Script by WriteMovies. His diverse career has taken him around the world, from the streets of Istanbul to the jungles of Africa, giving him a unique perspective that brings depth and authenticity to his writing. Smith’s novels and screenplays have won top honors in competitions, and his stories resonate with readers for their vivid settings, complex characters, and rich social commentary.
The Athens Singers and orchestra reprise a very well-received performance of Misa a Buenos Aires, by Martín Palmeri.

Mr. Palmeri has created this tango mass by using both his experience as a choir director and his work arranging Argentinian tango music. Starting with the form of a classical Roman Catholic mass, including lyrics in Latin, he adds the rhythms and attributes of tango. The end result is a piece that is both spiritual and exciting. Don't be surprised if you find your foot tapping to the rhythm!

The concert will be held on Friday, 23rd of May at 8:30PM at The War Museum Amphitheatre, conveniently located across from the Evangelismos Metro station.


Friday, 02 May 2025 11:34

May At The Maria Callas Museum

This May, the Maria Callas Museum of the City of Athens presents a rich and diverse program of cultural events and activities that bring audiences closer to the art of music and voice. Highlights include concerts in collaboration with the Athens State Orchestra and the Piano City Athens festival, a special vocal workshop with singer Maria Papageorgiou, as well as interactive guided tours, family programs, and the launch of the Museum’s first-ever summer camp.

EVENTS & ACTIVITIES

Tuesday, May 13 | Musical Walks – Eastern Roots

The Maria Callas Museum proudly continues its collaboration with the Athens State Orchestra, hosting the string quartet concert Eastern Roots, featuring works by Borodin, Shostakovich, and Kurtág. The program explores the contrasting musical currents of romanticism and modernism from Eastern Europe, offering a unique musical journey.

🕖 19:00 | 🎟 €10 (includes optional museum visit)
📍 Reservations via phone or more.com

Saturday, May 17 | Travelling Through the Eras of the Piano… at the Maria Callas Museum! | Piano City Athens

As part of the Piano City Athens festival, young pianists aged 8 to 15 will perform at the museum, showcasing a wide-ranging repertoire on the museum’s grand piano—from Viennese classicism and romanticism to modern Russian and American composers.

🕛 12:00 | 🎟 Free entry (concert only, museum visit not included)
📍 Pre-book your ticket at more.com

Sunday, May 18 | International Museum Day 2025 – Free Entry & “POV: My Take on the Maria Callas Museum”

To celebrate International Museum Day, the museum will offer free entry all day. Visitors are invited to explore the legacy of Maria Callas and enjoy video-reels created by participants (ages 16–106), who share their personal perspectives and reflections on the museum through creative storytelling.

🕙 10:00–19:00 | 🎟 Free entry (with registration at more.com)

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Monday 26 & Tuesday 27 May | Vocal Freedom: Rediscovering the Joy of Singing

Maria Papageorgiou leads a two-day vocal workshop open to all, regardless of experience. Through breathing exercises, voice work, and collective singing, participants will explore their own vocal potential in a safe, expressive environment—far from perfectionism and focused instead on connection and joy.

🕖 19:00–22:00 (Arrival: 18:30) | ⏳ 6 hours total
🎟 €100 | 📍 Register at more.com

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GUIDED TOURS

The museum offers a variety of interactive and themed tours designed for adults, families, seniors, and special groups—each aiming to provide a deeper, multisensory understanding of Maria Callas’ life and the world of opera.

🗓 Free Tours as part of Athens City Festival
📅 Sunday, May 11 & 25 | 🕐 13:00 | ⏳ 50 mins | 🎟 Free with pre-booking

🗓 Friday, May 16 | Thematic Tour: “Maria Callas – Icon & Myth”
🕕 18:00 | 🎟 €18 (reduced rates available) | ⏳ 50 mins

🗓 Saturday, May 31 | Adult Tour
🕛 12:00 | 🎟 €14 (reduced rates available) | ⏳ 50 mins

🗓 Saturday, May 31 | Family Tour
🕝 13:30 | 🎟 €7 (child), €14 (adult), €30 (family package) | ⏳ 50 mins

🗓 Every Thursday in May | Tours for visitors 65+
🕧 12:30 | 🎟 Museum Entry: €7, Tour: Free
📍 Phone reservations at +30 210 44 04 204

FAMILY PROGRAMS – MCM KIDS

Sunday, May 4 | Young Creators at the Maria Callas Museum: Nature

Inspired by the famous aria Casta Diva from Norma, this family workshop connects children (ages 4–8) and parents with nature through music. Participants will compose their own original musical phrases and create a sonic portrait of nature—no prior music education needed. The resulting compositions will be recorded and sent to families as a personal keepsake.

🕦 11:30–12:30 & 13:15–14:15
📍 Led by educator Markella Skourti

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