Setting up a new life in Greece is often romanticized as a sun-drenched dream, but the reality can be a complex puzzle of paperwork, real estate nuances, and cultural shifts. To pull back the curtain on how modern relocation works in 2026, we sat down with Panagiotis Raptis, CEO and co-founder of AegeanRelo, and Xenia Kostara, the firm’s Business Development Manager.

With years of deep industry experience even before the inception of AegeanRelo, Panagiotis and Xenia bring a wealth of "boots-on-the-ground" knowledge to the table. In this candid discussion, they answer everything: from the changing profiles of people moving to Greece and the hidden traps of the local property market, to the essential mindset shift required to truly call Greece "home."

AegeanRelo was founded on the belief that relocation should be approached as a complete, thoughtfully managed experience. Moving to a new country is a meaningful life transition, and we felt it deserved a level of care, structure, and attention that reflects that. Interestingly, the name itself was born out of discussions held right in the middle of the Aegean Sea. The symbolism of that setting really encapsulated the international yet deeply Greek spirit we wanted to project. We wanted a name that was euphoric and international, but not tacky. 

Looking ahead to 2026, our ambition is to contribute to a more refined, flexible relocation experience. We are moving away from the "one-size-fits-all" model. We handle every move separately and personally, offering a full suite of services from the initial consultation to handling customs, banks, schools, and legal contracts. We want the narrative to shift from "surviving the move" to "thriving from day one."

“Boutique” for us means high-touch, highly tailored service. We adapt everything to the individual: lifestyle, preferences, and even personality. A major differentiating factor for us is our "do it all" mindset. We’ve had cases where we added entirely new services on the spot just to solve a client's unique challenge, even if it was something we had never done before.

While we have a massive network of partners, including top-tier real estate agents and lawyers, we take full responsibility for the organization. The client doesn't get passed between departments; they have one point of contact who ensures the move is seamless, whether they are moving into a penthouse in Athens or a remote island in the Pacific.

The biggest misconception is that the system is purely chaotic and impossible to navigate. In reality, you just need to understand how processes work and who to speak to. We provide a vital "reality check." Many people see the "postcard" version of Greece and assume life is always like a holiday.

We’ve seen cases where people move to a beautiful island and realize they can't handle the lack of infrastructure or the isolation of winter because they are used to city life. Our job is to manage those expectations early through consultation, explaining that while the day-to-day is different from the vacation version, it’s perfectly manageable with the right guidance.

The biggest advantage we offer is structure. In Greece, properties are spread across fragmented platforms and informal networks. We use a dedicated platform that allows clients to see exactly how a potential home relates to their daily life, like calculating distances to their office, specific international schools, or local amenities.

We also provide a necessary cultural filter. For example, a client might want a 4-bedroom house in Piraeus, and we have to explain the architectural reality: those types of properties are rare there. We guide them toward areas like Chalandri, Marousi, the Northern or Southern Suburbs, or specific pockets of the Center, explaining that unlike other European cities, the "best" residential options in Athens aren't always in the literal city center. We ensure they aren't "fooled" by listings and that every contract is vetted and fair.

It’s a multi-stage journey. It starts with the consultation, clearing the air about what is realistic. Then we move to the search and legal vetting, making sure there is no "trash" (legal or physical) left in the house. We handle the check-in, ensuring everything is as promised.

Crucially, we handle the Moving aspect ourselves, which many agencies don't. We manage the packing and transport of the entire household from the country of origin to the final destination. And when the time comes for them to leave, we handle the check-out and relocation to their next destination. We even manage short stays for those who aren't ready to commit to a long-term lease yet.

We’ve seen a shift toward three distinct groups: retirees looking for island life, digital nomads designing their own lifestyles, and corporate professionals moving to big cities like Athens, Thessaloniki, or Cretan cities. Many of our clients are sent by international corporations, so they start with a global agency and then transition to us as their local experts. We’ve expanded our services to include co-working integration and community-building to help these location-independent professionals thrive socially, not just logistically.

Everything about the brand is intentional. The logo features three waves, representing our three founding shareholders, Panagiotis Raptis, Ebru Demirel and Lorenz Amiet. The color palette uses the deep blue of the Greek sea, a lighter sky blue, and a touch of gold to represent the premium, high-end nature of our services. Together, the colors look like the sky and the sea meeting the shore; it’s meant to be an invitation to the Greek lifestyle.

We once handled a move from Athens to a remote island in the Pacific! It involved incredible logistics: ferry delays, weather disruptions, and multiple transfers of high-value items. It’s the perfect example of our "from anywhere to anywhere" philosophy. We created a detailed inventory plan and stayed in constant communication. No matter how remote the location, we make it happen.

It starts with the advice to slow down. Whether you are at the supermarket, dealing with an electrician, or waiting for your internet to be connected, it’s going to happen at a different pace. We help clients reframe this as a gain in quality of life. In Greece, relationships matter more than speed. If you try to fight the rhythm, you’ll be stressed; if you embrace it, you’ll belong.

Take your time at a café, engage with people, and don’t rush. But, on a very practical note: watch out at the pedestrian crossings! The rules of the road (and the crossroads) aren't always what you're used to in Northern Europe or the States; pedestrians don't always have the right of way, so stay alert!

Our goal is for every client to eventually reach that state of being where they can say they are truly "networked" into the culture. As we say, we want to help you connect, thrive, and make Greece your own.

We would like to thank Panagiotis and Xenia for sharing their time and their expertise with us. Their passion for making Greece accessible and welcoming to the world is what sets AegeanRelo apart in a crowded industry.

Ready to start your Greek chapter?
If you want to explore how AegeanRelo can streamline your move click here to explore their full range of services!

 

Greece has transitioned far beyond its "holiday paradise" image, firmly establishing itself as a premier European hub for expats, digital nomads, and retirees. With a modernized remote-work infrastructure and a culture that perfectly balances wellness with its deep historical roots, Greece offers a truly elevated way of living.

In this guide, we dive into the five premier Greek cities leading the relocation charts in 2026. While each destination offers an idyllic future, the path there often involves the famous Greek bureaucracy. Utilizing AegeanRelo’s professional relocation services can be the ultimate game-changer for your journey.

Athens remains the beating heart of Greece’s economic and technological surge. By 2026, it has matured into a global startup hub with world-class digital infrastructure.

• Best for: Tech professionals, career-driven expats, and those who love urban energy.
• The Why: Beyond the history, you have access to the country’s top international schools and private healthcare. Trendy neighborhoods like Glyfada, Pangrati, and Petralona are the current "it" spots for the international community.

Often the first choice for those who find Athens a bit too fast-paced, Greece’s "second city" is a UNESCO-recognized gastronomic heaven.

• Best for: Creatives, food lovers, and fans of walkable cities.
• The Why: It offers a lower cost of living than the capital without sacrificing urban amenities. The iconic waterfront promenade remains the gold standard for sunset strolls.

Chania is the ultimate compromise for those who want island beauty without the "off-season" shutdown. Unlike smaller islands, Chania stays vibrant and functional through the winter.

• Best for: Families and remote workers seeking a deep connection to nature.
• The Why: Crete is incredibly self-sufficient, meaning local produce is fresh and affordable year-round. Plus, a thriving digital nomad community ensures you’ll never lack for co-working spaces or social meetups.

Located in the Peloponnese, Kalamata has seen a massive rise in popularity. It’s a rare city where you can have a beach at your doorstep and be only a 2.5-hour drive from Athens.

• Best for: Active lifestyles and those seeking great value for money.
• The Why: As one of Greece’s most bicycle-friendly cities, it offers a high quality of life nestled between the Taygetos Mountains and the Messinian Gulf.

If your heart belongs to mountains and lakes rather than sand, Ioannina is the "hidden gem" of 2026. This historic university city in the Epirus region is surrounded by the breathtaking Pindus Mountains.

• Best for: Hikers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking true cultural immersion.
• The Why: It is significantly more affordable than coastal hubs and serves as the gateway to world-class outdoor adventures in the Vikos Gorge and Zagorohoria villages.

Relocating to Greece is a life-changing milestone. To ensure your transition is as smooth as possible, the AegeanRelo team is here to help. Whether you need a professional Home Search to secure the perfect property or expert help with "the heavy lifting" of immigration paperwork, we’ve got you covered.

So, you’ve decided to swap the routine for the Aegean blue. Whether you’re drawn by the 300 days of sunshine, the Mediterranean lifestyle, or a new career path, relocating to Greece is the adventure of a lifetime.

Of course, moving to the "land of the gods" involves a bit more than just booking a flight. To ensure your transition is as smooth as a calm day on a Greek island, here are 5 essentials you need to know before you relocate.

Greece is famous for its history, but it is equally well-known for its bureaucracy. Whether you are an EU citizen or moving from further afield (like the US, UK, or Australia), navigating visas, residence permits, and the AFM (your Greek tax ID) is your first major hurdle.

• Pro Tip: You cannot rent a house, open a bank account, or set up utilities without an AFM. It is truly the “golden key” to your new life here.

Picking a place to live is about more than just the scenery; each city has its own unique rhythm. Do you crave the cosmopolitan energy of Athens with its cultural hotspots? Or perhaps the relaxed, coastal charm of Thessaloniki, known for its world-class food and friendly vibe?

If you are considering the islands, remember that life changes with the seasons. A lively August is very different from a quiet winter with limited ferry services. Think about year-round amenities and accessibility when deciding.

• The Home Search: Finding the right property in a foreign market can be daunting. This is where AegeanRelo’s Home Search services become invaluable.

For families, schooling is a top priority. Greece offers excellent International Schools, mostly in Athens and Thessaloniki, following the IB or British curriculum.

• Keep in mind: These schools are in high demand and waiting lists can be long. Because school bus routes often dictate where expats choose to live, it’s wise to coordinate your home search with your school choice.

Greek streets can be narrow and winding. Shipping a full container requires expert “last-mile” coordination. From customs clearance to ensuring the right-sized truck can actually reach your front door, the logistics are complex.

• Planning Tip: Start your inventory early. Knowing what to bring (and what to leave behind) can save you significantly on shipping and customs duties.

The most important thing to pack is patience. The Greek concept of “siga-siga” (literally “slowly, slowly”) is a beautiful part of the culture that prioritizes life over work. While it makes for a relaxed lifestyle, it can be a challenge when you are waiting for internet installation or a delivery.

• The Secret: If you expect a London or New York pace, you’ll be stressed. If you embrace the local rhythm, you’ll thrive.

Relocating to Greece is a massive milestone, and you shouldn’t have to navigate it alone. AegeanRelo specializes in taking the stress out of your move. From handling international removals to securing residence permits and finding your dream home, they are your local partners every step of the way.

Relocating to a new country is more than just a logistical challenge; it is a major life transition. AegeanRelo is a premier relocation and global mobility firm dedicated to turning the complex process of moving to Greece (or anywhere worldwide) into a stress-free, turnkey experience.

By combining decades of logistics expertise with a deeply personalized "boutique" approach, AegeanRelo ensures that every client, from corporate executives to families, feels at home before they even arrive.

• International & Domestic Moving: Packing and transportation of household goods. Whether it’s a cross-border move or a local relocation, your belongings are handled with precision and care.
• Comprehensive Relocation Support: Our team assists with home finding, school searches, utility hook-ups, and neighborhood orientations to help you settle in quickly.
• Immigration & Visa Assistance: Navigating Greek bureaucracy can be daunting. We provide expert guidance on Golden Visas, work permits, and residency documentation to ensure full legal compliance.
• Secure Storage Solutions: Short-term and long-term storage options in modern, climate-controlled, and highly secure facilities.

• Personalized Strategy: No two moves are the same. We assign a dedicated coordinator to build a customized relocation plan tailored to your specific timeline and requirements.
• Local Mastery, Global Reach: We possess an intimate knowledge of the Greek market and regulations, backed by a robust network of international partners spanning the globe.
• Stress-Free Management: From customs clearance to unpacking the final glass, we manage the entire end-to-end process so you can focus on your new beginning.
• Corporate Excellence: We are the trusted partner for multinational companies, providing efficient mobility solutions that ensure employees are productive and happy in their new destination.

📞 Phone: +30 211 218 5671

📧 Email: contact@aegeanrelo.com

🌐 Website: www.aegeanrelo.com

Opening: Thursday 7 May 2026, 18:00
Duration: 6 – 24 May 2026 
Hours: Thursday – Saturday, 17:00 – 20:00 

FokiaNou Art Space presents Flower Power 5, the fifth edition of its annual spring group exhibition celebrating the enduring presence of flowers in contemporary artistic practice. Each year, the Fokianou apartment is transformed into a vibrant meeting place — a “garden” that blossoms through the diverse voices, materials, and approaches of the participating artists.

The exhibition explores the role of flowers as image, symbol, memory, or point of departure for new narratives. With sensitivity, boldness, or a distinctly personal lens, the works engage with the flower not merely as an aesthetic motif but as a carrier of meaning, emotion, and experience that resonates across time and artistic expression.

Flower Power 5 continues a tradition that has become a hallmark of FokiaNou Art Space: an annual celebration of spring, creativity, and the inexhaustible power of flowers to inspire, move, and connect.

Curated by Mary Cox and Panagiotis Voulgaris.

Participating artists:  Maria Aliberti,  Bodarch (Petros Petrou and Stella Chatzipanayotou), Lorenz  Bogle, Mary Cox, Panagiotis Ferentinos, Theodora Fitzsimmons, Mary Haniou, Maria Claudia Litsas, Evangelos Moutsis, Gabriela Papaefthimiou, Eleni Papanikolaou,  Constantina Paraskevopoulou , Caroline Pradal, Geeta Roopnarine, Ariane Severin, Georgia Maggy Touliatou, Marios Trichas, Panagiotis Voulgaris.

What if the key to more clarity, confidence and self-leadership isn't something you need to find, but something you were born with and simply need to see with clarity?

 

On the evening of Saturday May 16 2026, a small group of international women will gather in a private penthouse in Athens for an immersive experience to unlock the force that drives us - our SUPERPOWER!

 

Hosted by Michaela Suchy — founder of Athena’s Journey and the KKM® Kern-Kraft Mensch® System, the evening is about understanding the unique-to-you core energy that shapes your life’s every reaction, decision and relationship.

This is not a lecture, a workshop or a seminar ~ it is a curated experience.

With the countdown already underway, Messinia Challenge is excited to announce the finalization of this year's schedule. From May 8 to 10, 2026, Messinia will transform into a global athletic epicenter, offering a unique experience that combines movement, the philosophy of longevity, and the authentic hospitality of Costa Navarino.

The fully renewed schedule includes 70 parallel activities and 20 Olympic sports, remaining faithful to the timeless message "Sports Unites People". In this event, sports is transformed: it ceases to be a simple physical activity and becomes a powerful means to make the world better, promoting health, unity, and social contribution. 

 

By the side of the participants will be an emblematic team of athletes, consisting of Olympians Dimosthenis Tampakos, Dimitris Papanikolaou, Periklis Iakovakis, Antigoni Ntrismpioti, and Evina Maltsi, Paralympians Nasos Ghavelas and Grigoris Polychronidis, as well as top champions Kostas Katsouranis, Joe Arlauckas, Michalis Triantafyllidis, Maria Polyzou, Georgia Kaltsi, Konstantinos Dean Karnazes, and Jo Manta.

These great athletes will not simply have the role of an observer. They will become one with the people: they will run, exercise, train, and sweat together with all participants! Messinia Challenge thus turns into an unrepeatable celebration of wellness, sports, and the practical promotion of the Olympic Ideal, this eternal value that transcends medals and records. The Olympic ideal is not just a competitive goal, but a moral compass that guides our every step. It is the belief in equal opportunity, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence through sports. With exactly this philosophy, the effort is celebrated to the fullest and all participants, young and old, receive their own commemorative medal at the finish line. 

This is the evolution of a great story: of a family that immigrated to America, where the late Alex Spanos thrived and became the owner of the Los Angeles Chargers, one of the most dynamic and rising teams in the NFL, the sport that captivates the planet with the most famous final worldwide, the renowned Super Bowl. 

Today, the continuers of this precious legacy return to their ancestral lands. A top moment of this year's event is the historic first visit of Dean Spanos, owner and Chairman of the Board of the Los Angeles Chargers, to the land of his ancestors, honoring the family's deep ties with the village of Eva, in Messinia. 

With him, Messinia Challenge welcomes the legendary Shawne Merriman, former Chargers linebacker, three-time Pro Bowler, and co-owner of the “Lights Out” MMA fight club. The NFL Flag Football Camp in Methoni has a great purpose: the spread of the sport to the new generation of Greece, especially now that Flag Football is preparing to make history as an official Olympic sport at the Los Angeles Olympic Games in 2028.

For the implementation of this vision, the mission is joined by two development head coaches of the official NFL Flag Football program, as well as 20 top Greek and Greek-American athletes, who will teach the secrets of the sport to the children of Messinia. At the same time, to seal this unique experience, authentic equipment from the Los Angeles Chargers will be distributed to the children, as an invaluable memento of a historic visit that creates the strongest bridge between American football and the ancestral land of Messinia. 

Buondi Craft gives a dynamic "presence" at Messinia Challenge (May 8–10) as the Official Coffee Partner, supporting one of the country's most important wellness events. Throughout the event, athletes and visitors will enjoy crafted coffee experiences at specially designed coffee stations during the golf and tennis tournaments, from the early morning starts to the recovery moments after the races. This collaboration is part of Buondi Craft's overall commitment to responsible entrepreneurship and sustainable development. Throughout the Messinia Challenge 2026, the coffee grounds produced will be collected and directed to recycling and reuse actions, supporting circular economy practices and contributing to the reduction of the event's environmental footprint.

KORRES takes over the natural care and sun protection of the participants, promoting the inseparable link between wellness and the pure ingredients of Greek nature. During the event, the beloved brand stars with multifaceted actions, presenting the dynamic F45 Barrio Salamanca HYROX Work Out under the guidance of Euroleague Legend Joe Arlauckas and physical education professor Dimitris Moros (FitnessArt). At the same time, the activity moves to the sand of The Dunes Beach with the Family Beach Volley Tournament powered by KORRES. The action is implemented in collaboration with the Triantafyllidis Beach Arena and the Greek champion Michalis Triantafyllidis, offering a unique experience of teamwork and movement for the whole family. Naturally, because action requires safety under the sun, the KORRES Yogurt face and body sunscreen series will offer athletes comprehensive broad-spectrum protection, ensuring active hydration and skin comfort. 

REA Clinic, proving its social sensitivity in practice, carries out a unique struggle of contribution by contributing decisively to finding volunteer bone marrow donors, in collaboration with the ORAMA ELPIDAS Association. During Messinia Challenge, they will join forces with the participants, implementing a great action of information and registration of new volunteers. Specifically, for three whole days, the mobile unit of the Volunteer Bone Marrow Donor Sample Collection Center of the REA Clinic will be specially installed at the House of Events of Costa Navarino. There, visitors and athletes will be able to get informed and give a sample through a process that is extremely simple, lasting only a few minutes and completely painless. Every new sample collected during the three-day period is not just a participation, but a real hope for a fellow human being who is ill and seeking a compatible donor for the transplant that will grant them life again! 

Combining intensity on the court with balance at sunset, Melissa participates dynamically in the event, highlighting the importance of proper sports nutrition. The beloved brand invests in the new generation by offering Basketball Clinics for children and adolescents, under the guidance of legends of the sport Evina Maltsi and Joe Arlauckas. Furthermore, it supports Sunset Pilates with the team of physical education professor Mandy Persaki, combining exercise with a setting of absolute tranquility. An ally for participants at every step is the innovative Melissa High Protein pasta series, with a new enhanced recipe with 25g of protein per 100g, which is a source of energy before and after training. Putting the message "At the heart of every moment" into practice, Melissa will be at the heart of the race with the characteristic Melissa Van on Sunday at the finish line of the running races, to distribute nutritious recovery meals, rich in carbohydrates and protein, to young and old runners! 

  

Vlaha ensures the ideal first contact of infants with water in the context of Messinia Challenge. Through the Baby Swimming Lessons, held with the support of Red Swim Academy & Swim O’ Clock, a modified environment of absolute affection and safety is offered for children up to 3 years old accompanied by their parents. This action reflects the brand's philosophy which has remained unchanged for decades: care with pure ingredients and traditional value. Besides, Vlaha trachanas, which has been handmade since 1965, is synonymous with the authentic taste that grows generations upon generations, offering the nutritional basis for a healthy start in life. 

Feeju brings natural stimulation and a strong dose of sportsmanship to the Messinia Challenge, inviting participants to a fun Knock Out Challenge. Through this beloved and extremely popular basketball skill game, everyone is given the opportunity to have fun, test their skills, and compete in an atmosphere of absolute joy and excitement, because for Feeju every effort counts, whether it is the shot that will bring you closer to victory, or the small daily energy boost that keeps you moving. Allies in this effort are the company's natural juices in "shot" form. Enriched with beneficial ingredients, vitamins, and minerals, Feeju's wellness shots are specifically designed for immediate, effective absorption and maximum health benefits, completely free of preservatives, sugar, additives, or dyes. These innovative products will accompany various wellness activities throughout the three-day period, naturally giving their dynamic "presence" to Sunday's running races as well, to grant the necessary, clean energy to all runners!

Based in Thessaloniki, Trace ‘n Chase, a company specializing in sports trading cards and memorabilia, is the official representative in Europe for top brands in the field, such as Panini, Upper Deck, Topps, and Fanatics. In this year's Messinia Challenge, the company gives a dynamic "presence" at the 4on4 basketball tournament, connecting the passion for the sport with modern collecting culture. On a court where Olympians, professionals, and amateur athletes coexist and compete together, Trace ‘n Chase highlights the values of teamwork and fair play, while offering a high-level experience to basketball fans. At the same time, the company's participation also has a huge social footprint. The first collectible sports items for the auction of the great initiative "To Save a Child" will be exhibited at the event venue. Several of these unique exhibits will be immediately available through the “Buy Now” process. All funds from these purchases will be automatically and directly directed to the bank accounts of the 12 NGOs that the event actively supports, demonstrating in practice the power of sports to offer substantial hope!

Bacardi rum is inextricably linked to enjoyable cocktails like the iconic Bacardi Mojito and carefree moments by the waves. In this year's Messinia Challenge, Bacardi rum brings the spirit of celebration, sociability, and summer carefreeness, supporting the impressive King of the Court Mixed Beach Volley Tournament at the idyllic The Dunes Beach. Participants will have the opportunity to live the intensity and rhythm of a fast and spectacular tournament from Triantafyllidis Beach Arena. In this unique setting, sports meets lifestyle, giving the joy of participation to those seeking action in the sand, but also to those looking forward to the ultimate summer cocktail, the Bacardi Mojito.

Step into the new digital era with the event's ultimate guide! Download the Messinia Challenge App now (designed by Mind the Ad) on iOS and Android. For the first time in Greece, a sporting event innovates to such a degree: the Messinia Challenge becomes the first Greek event to present a comprehensive app cut and sewn exclusively to the needs of the visitor. It is not just another live tracking application for running times. It is a complete, interactive digital "companion" that upgrades the overall hospitality experience! Only through the application will you have direct access to real-time updates, the full three-day schedule, as well as exclusive discount coupons from our sponsors. Don't wait, live the Messinia Challenge experience to the fullest with one click! 

Wilson, the leading sports equipment company worldwide, is represented in Greece by Fais Group and is the ultimate synonym of authentic basketball culture, standing out over time for the innovation and unparalleled quality of its products. In this year's Messinia Challenge, the historic company gives a dynamic "presence" as the exclusive basketball game sponsor. The iconic Wilson balls will star, giving the rhythm to the demanding Corporate Tournament, while at the same time they will be in the hands of young and old at the special basketball clinics that will be held under the guidance of great legends of the sport, ensuring a completely professional experience on the court! 

PETROS TASOULIS jewelry, with a history starting from 1970, is a synonym of timeless elegance and high aesthetics. With a steady focus on quality and innovation, every creation reflects the art of detail and the value of authenticity. In this year's Messinia Challenge, the PETROS TASOULIS brand participates dynamically in the context of a top sporting event. With an impressive exhibition space at the official Gala, participants will have the opportunity to get to know its creations up close and at the same time will benefit from exclusive offers through the event's official app. 

Platinum Sponsor is Miele.

Gold Sponsors are MOTODYNAMICS Group, Hellmann’s, The North Face.

Official Hospitality Sponsors are Costa Navarino and the hotels The Westin Resort Costa Navarino and The Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort.

Silver Sponsors are Gruppo Cucine, JYSK, NIO member of the MOTODYNAMICS Group, KORRES, Melissa.

Premium Mobility Partner is SIXT member of the MOTODYNAMICS Group. 

Official Water is VIKOS Natural Mineral Water.

Official Airline is SKY express. 

Official Coffee Partner is Buondi Craft.

Bronze Sponsors are Dipnosofistirion Group, Solgar, Napapijri, Icebreaker, Patron. 

Sports Memorabilia Partner is Trace ‘n Chase. 

Official Running Apparel Partner is 42K Running. 

Official Logistics Partner is Pilia Express. 

Official Functional Shot Partner is Feeju. 

Partners are Messinian Nest, Municipality of Pylos - Nestor, Alpha Estate, Nexion Hellas, Hyperice, Marshall, Objects We Love. 

Official Medical Partner is City Hospital Clinic. 

Official Game Basketball is Wilson.

Authentic Flavor Partner is Navarino Icons. 

Official Optics Partner are Kois Optics. 

Supporters are Evenly, Messinia Transfer, Physio-Treat, Spira Marble Art Gallery – Grigoris Kouskouris, Messinian Spa. 

Official Life Care Partner is REA Clinic.

Official Jewellery Partner is the company PETROS TASOULIS JEWELLERY EST.1970.

Integrity Services Provider is EAGLE Sports Integrity Services.

Helpers are Knorr, Vlaha, Anatomic Line, Humanity Greece, Karalis Beach Hotel, Karalis City Hotel, Memmos Dairy, Rania’s Flower, Vita N Travel, Silk Gonos.

Premium TV Partner is SKAI. 

Premium Media Partner is Liquid Media.

Athletic Partners are F45 Barrio Salamanca, Falcons Football Academy, FitnessArt, Joint Athens, Messiniakos, Moraitis Outdoors, Moraitis Watersports, Mouratoglou Tennis Center Costa Navarino, Navarino Golf Academy, Pilates by Mandy, Red Swim Academy, Swim O’Clock, Tennis Hold’em Club, The Art of Calisthenics, Triantafyllidis Beach Arena.

The event is held under the auspices of the Ministry of Tourism, the Greek National Tourism Organization, and the Region of Peloponnese.

The strategic design, production, and communication of the event are signed by the award-winning sports tourism company ActiveMedia Group.

#messiniachallenge #sportsunitespeople #costanavarino

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In a world that moves quickly and asks us to produce and accelerate more than we can sustain, many of us lose touch with the quiet spark that makes life feel vivid.

Reawakening Wonder is a 3-night immersive retreat designed to restore our aliveness and creativity, engage with all our senses, and cultivate a deep sense of wellbeing through dialogue, self-reflection, and movement.

Join in around the summer solstice June 18-21, 2026 at the incredible and natural landscape of Pelion.

 

Max Amini is a world-renowned comedian, producer, director, and podcaster who has redefined stand-up comedy in the digital age. As the founder and CEO of Abstraction Media, he has built a comedy empire from the ground up. With over 25.7 million followers and 5.8 billion views in 2025 alone, he is currently the most-watched comedian on Instagram globally. His YouTube channel ranks as the #1 fastest-growing comedy channel in the US, with audiences tuning in from every country in the world.

Max made history as the first Iranian-American artist to headline Madison Square Garden and sell out the Kia Forum in Los Angeles. He is also the highest ticket-selling international comedian in India. His 2025 tour spanned 19 countries, 60 cities, and 150 sold-out shows, with over 200,000 tickets sold.

Born in Tucson, Arizona, Max discovered his comedic voice at the Los Angeles Improv while studying at UCLA's School of Theater, Film and Television. After graduating, he became a resident comic at the Laugh Factory in Hollywood, where his improvisational crowd work and magnetic stage presence made him one of the fastest-rising talents on the LA comedy circuit.

Today, Max blends cultural storytelling with universal themes, drawing audiences of all backgrounds into his live shows, which he calls a United Nations of Comedy. His stand-up special Randomly Selected reached 16 million views in under six months.

Whether headlining arenas or creating content that travels the globe, Max hears daily from fans who find comfort and connection in his comedy during life's highs and lows. He has built his career through passion and purpose, transforming everyday struggles and family dynamics into performances that prove humor can heal and unite.

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*Note: The event will start promptly at the scheduled time 17:00 & 21:00.  To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone, we kindly recommend arriving early at the venue. This will allow enough time for parking, entrance procedures, security checks, and seating.

**Note: Parking spaces may be limited around the building, so early arrival is strongly advised. A ticket does not guarantee a parking space. 

I recently had the pleasure of visiting Jeff and Sharona at the Silk House, the newest addition to their thoughtfully curated Halo Collection. Having already established The Hive in the vibrant Kypseli neighbourhood and The Hill perched in Lycabettus, the Silk House in Metaxourgio feels like the crowning jewel of their journey so far.

From the moment I turned the corner, the house made an impression. Metaxourgio is a neighborhood known for its grit and vibrancy, filled with "hype" spots to eat and drink, but the Silk House stands out like a calm, aristocratic anchor. Even from the street, the facade is soothing, a beautiful, balanced blend of old-world elegance and contemporary lines.


The Silk House, Exterior

It is rare to find a space that masters the combination of old and new so seamlessly. It doesn't just look like a rental; it feels like a place meant to be lived in. Everything makes sense. The colors are so beautiful they immediately lift your mood, and the original flooring in the kitchen is absolutely stunning, a real showstopper.


The Silk House, Kitchen

As they gave me a tour, I realized that the house is full of hidden corners; it’s the kind of place where not everything is as it seems at first glance. I found myself stopped in my tracks by the details:

• The Heritage: Vintage suitcase trunks from Jeff’s family collection anchor the bedroom, while mid-century armchairs have been transformed with lush, modern upholstery.
• The Atmosphere: A sleek electric fireplace makes the living area feel incredibly cozy, perfectly balanced by the view through the window of a striking piece of local graffiti, a nod to the urban heart of Athens.
• The Experience: For anyone who appreciates all-time classics, the 1950s Grundig radio is a total blast to see (and hear). Even the smaller touches are elevated, from the clouds-of-comfort beds and pillows to the organic Greek olive oil toiletries in the bathroom.

Every detail, from the scent of the diffusers to the secret lighting, is a testament to their "circle of care." It was in this setting, surrounded by the warmth of their hospitality and the beauty of the Silk House, that we sat down to talk about how it all began.


The Silk House, Living Room

Jeff: Honestly, we would love to find a new area and bring the beauty of what we’ve done here into a different context. For us, it’s more about the building itself than the specific neighborhood. We’ve been looking at the potential of old warehouses, the New York-style loft vibe.

Sharona: We looked at Botanikos, which is where the big warehouses are, near the new stadium. But those are "serious" warehouses. If you try to build a home there now, you’re fighting with trucks; it might take 10 or 15 years before that area truly matures.

Jeff: We spend a lot of time just walking, looking at buildings and asking, "What about this one?" We found a warehouse in Exarchia about a year ago, but the ceiling height wasn't right. It has to be the right fit.

Jeff: That’s a really interesting question, but to be honest, I don’t think we go out specifically looking for a certain property. It’s more like a place comes along, you look at it, and you just go, "Oh." You see the high ceilings or the way the light hits, and you realize you can work with it. The first couple of properties were almost accidental, really. It wasn't until we got here and planted ourselves that our brains started working and we got that clarity on the direction we wanted to go. We always knew we wanted an old house. When we bought the Silk House, it was actually two separate units, so we had to put the staircase in ourselves. Those old houses are so hard to find.

Sharona: Initially, the dream was just to find an old house to live in ourselves! We ended up buying a place in Lycabettus that everyone called a "basement," but when you actually walk in, it’s anything but. It has this little private courtyard where no one bothers you, just total peace and quiet. For our other property in Kipseli, my sister-in-law originally sent us the pictures of that one, and it was the light and that 1930s style of living that attracted us. We really wanted to keep that. So, in the beginning, it wasn't a grand plan, but we eventually realized what was available and what we could do with it.


The Hill, Courtyard

Jeff: Well, we’ve always had this idea because my mother’s Greek and my father’s Greek-Canadian, so Greece has always played a part. Our daughters spent summers here. When I finished 40 years in Asia and retirement was knocking on my door, I thought, "What have I been doing in Asia? Building companies." So we thought, retirement should look like building something again. That was the start of the Halo Collection.

Sharona: We came back and forth from Singapore for over 20 years because we had a home in Mykonos. After a year or two, someone said, "Why don’t you rent it out?" Again, accidental! We could only spend a month there a year, so we said okay. That rental business lasted more than 20 years and did very well, but the island has changed tremendously. It’s not what it used to be.

Jeff: We learned a lot, though, about what people like on holiday. An island is different; people want to do nothing, go to the beach, and go home. Athens has more of a neighborhood feel. It’s urban. People are looking for how they can fit in and see a little bit of Greece. We took what we knew after 24 years, what people look at when they walk in the front door, the small things like arranging a car or a boat trip. Those things make them feel comfortable, rather than a flashy new place that has no soul. 

Sharona: Each of our properties is a little different, and that’s intentional. The one in Lycabettus, for instance, is such a unique little space, but when you give it to an agent, they just see "bread and butter." They want cookie-cutter. They don't want the "additional dish" or those extra touches we love giving our guests. We aren't really interested in the whole "Airbnb shoot-and-shut-up" style; we want to find a middle ground by creating unique spaces. If the market is ready for it, we’ll see it in the feedback.

Jeff: We’re still learning the market ourselves, With the Silk House, we literally just launched on Airbnb and it’s already showing its colors. People were asking for one or two-year stays within the first two days! I’m like, "Okay, now where do we go?" It’s encouraging, but it's a learning curve.

Sharona: It’s a very specific niche. Three-bedroom houses only make up about 5% of the Airbnb market as most of it is studios and one-bedrooms. So we don’t really fit in a standard category. We’re appealing to a whole different group of people,

Jeff: Exactly. People who want a certain aesthetic and they’re willing to pay for it. To add to that, we put in a heated plunge pool here at the Silk House, which was my idea. Sharona was like, "Oh my god, the bloody plunge pool," but now she sees it’s a great move because nobody else has one. It’s outdoor but partially covered, so in the July heat, people can just cool off.


The Silk House, Plunge Pool

Sharona: It was almost an accident! But it works because a halo is a circle, and it implies a "circle of care" around the space and the neighborhood. That’s the thread across all three properties. We were just sitting around thinking, "What are we going to do?" and that name just came out. It represents the experience of all the different bits and pieces of the neighborhood coming together.

Jeff: Exactly! This is the The Silk House because in the back studio, they used to make silk, as the area used to have lots of silk-making workshops. The Hive is because they used to keep bees in Kypseli, they had honey there. At least that's what we were told! Kypseli in Greek means Beehive.


The Hive

Sharona: They’re actually going into urban honey now. There’s a guy with an NGO who encourages beehives on rooftops. We thought about doing one here, but then I thought, we have guests going up the stairs, what if they touch the beehive? Maybe that’s a good reason for them not to go up! "Please don't go up, we've got lots of bees."

Jeff: But it's an alternative experience. Having honey on the table and knowing where it came from. The Hill is the last one, which is up on Lycabettus. So every name has to do with the neighborhood.


The Hill

Jeff: To keep true to the area and the look, despite what people might want. Today, everyone wants a bathroom associated with every bedroom. Greek houses weren't built that way. We could do it, but we feel it would lose the flavor of the house. Likewise, we wanted to add a floor to this building, but structurally it would have changed too much. We want to tell people, "This is original."

Sharona: Another example are the kitchens which were often tiny and isolated. In a modern world, that doesn't work. We renovate for flow, but keep the soul. A big challenge is also the historical value of the area. You have to worry about ruins. If we dig and find something, everything stops. There’s a sign out front saying this was the road from Kerameikos to Plato's Academy. If we dig too deep and find something, the whole project stops! In the historical center, everything is historical.


The Silk House, Dining Room

Jeff: Plumbing and electricity. We put in the best. I think Greeks sometimes think, "How can we fix this just for the next few months?" No, when we do something, we do it for the next ten years.

Sharona: You have to do the foundation properly. We almost had a fire here because the previous people did the wiring poorly. When our engineers dig, they don’t cut corners.

Jeff: It’s tempting to save 50% on something like air conditioning, but we use the most expensive VRV systems because they last and they are sustainable. They read the room and shut off when the temperature is right, which is much more economical.

Sharona: It’s all about the mix. You try to weave the old in with the new so it feels intentional. For example, if you look at the cabinetry here, we built in new storage but kept the paneling around it to give that immediate sense of history. You have your 65-inch TV and your electric fireplace, which are obviously very new, but then you surround them with old books and pieces that have a story. 

Jeff: We’re very protective of the original character. In this house, the floors are original and the ceilings are exactly as they were in the 1930s. Actually, we would have lost all of that if we had tried to add another floor. Even the furniture has a history. Most of our chairs and tables are things people literally threw away. We find them in these massive Monastiraki “junk” stores where people are just letting treasures go. I take them to "my guy" just down the road; he has a great eye and he refurbishes them. We even have pieces that I brought over, vintage items from my mother’s collection, that just add to that lived-in feeling. And then there’s the 1950s Grundig radio. It’s a beautiful old stereo system that actually works! We found an old man, one of the few people left in Greece who can still fix them, and he got it running perfectly. You can actually turn it on and listen to the radio right now. 


The Silk House, One of the two old radios

Sharona: It’s interesting because in places like Glyfada or Kifisia, everyone is chasing that modern 'Australian glass' style. They’re beautiful houses, but you have to wonder whether they will hold their style in 20 or 30 years. We prefer a different approach. You don’t have to throw things away to make a space feel modern. Sometimes it’s just about taking a dark cabinet that feels a bit too heavy and refurbishing the color or changing the handles to something more contemporary. It creates this slight, sophisticated shift while keeping the soul of the piece intact. You simply cannot find things like that in the 'new world' in Asia—it would cost you an arm and a leg—but here, the treasures are right in front of you if you're willing to look.

Sharona: The weather, for sure. 

Jeff: And the people are so genuine. You don't see that as much in Asia; people are more guarded.The amount of time people have reached out to help us! Our carpenter is 50 meters up the road; he’s always keeping an eye out. He’ll text Sharona and say, "You left your keys in the door." It’s a neighborhood thing. Neighborhoods are disappearing everywhere else, but this element is still very strong in Greece. The culture is just so strong here. Take Easter, for example; we recently celebrated it, and seeing it done so joyously... it’s incredibly inviting.

Sharona: We met a guy down the street fixing his house, and he just said, "Come in, come in!" He told us when he's finished, he'll invite us for coffee. We like the neighborhood so much we might even live here ourselves in a few years. It just feels like a home.


The Hive, Balcony View

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Thank you so much, Jeff and Sharona, for opening your doors and sharing the heart behind these incredible spaces. It was a true pleasure to experience the "circle of care" you’ve built within the Halo Collection firsthand.