Learning Greek doesn’t have to feel intimidating or academic.

At XpatAthens, our Greek Language Lessons are designed specifically for those who want to feel more confident, connected, and at home in Greece. Whether you’re ordering coffee, dealing with paperwork, or chatting with neighbours, we focus on real-life Greek you can actually use.

“A goal without a plan is just a wish.”

— Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

Relocating to Greece can be a dream come true, but without the right guidance, it can also become overwhelming. We spoke with Eleftheria Stefanou, founder of Especially Concierge & Relocation Services agency, about what relocation concierge services truly involve and why they are essential for a seamless move.

Relocating to another country is one of life’s most demanding transitions. Greece offers an extraordinary lifestyle, but navigating a new legal framework, Greek bureaucracy, real estate practices, and often a new language can quickly become overwhelming.

Many people underestimate the administrative procedures required before and after arrival. Without expert local support, what begins as a dream can turn into stress. That’s precisely where a relocation concierge becomes essential.

A relocation concierge is not a moving company. We are a strategic partner managing the entire relocation journey on behalf of our clients. At Especially Relocation agency, we act as a single, trusted point of contact. From early planning to final settlement, we coordinate every element of the move. Our role is to simplify complexity, anticipate challenges, and ensure that each decision aligns with our client’s lifestyle, priorities, and timeline.

It’s a fully personalized, proactive service and much of our work happens discreetly behind the scenes.

Finding the right home in Greece requires far more than browsing listings online. Many premium properties, especially those suited to international clients seeking privacy, quality, or long-term investment value, never appear on public platforms. We collaborate with evaluated, high-level real estate partners and have access to off-market opportunities. Rather than navigating multiple agents and conflicting information, our clients receive a curated property shortlist aligned with their criteria. We pre-screen properties, organize efficient viewings, and provide insight not only about the home itself but also about the neighborhood, infrastructure, and long-term potential. It’s informed decision-making with local intelligence.

True relocation support extends far beyond property acquisition. We coordinate utilities, internet, mobile services, banking appointments, and household setup, often before our clients even arrive in Greece. For families, this may include guidance on neighborhoods and international schools. For executives or individuals, it can involve domestic staff sourcing, interior support, or lifestyle services. Every detail is handled with precision so that our clients arrive with confidence, not uncertainty.

Clarity and peace of mind.

Instead of managing multiple providers, timelines, and language barriers, clients work with one dedicated local expert overseeing the entire process. This ensures consistency, accountability, and discretion at every stage. 

The experience becomes structured, efficient, and turnkey, rather than fragmented and stressful.

Anyone who values their time and wants a smooth, well-managed transition.

Our clients include professionals relocating for work, families seeking stability, investors exploring opportunities, and individuals beginning a new life chapter in Greece. They all share one common priority: they prefer expert handling of complex logistics rather than navigating unfamiliar systems alone.

Is relocation concierge a luxury service?

It’s an investment in simplicity.

Costs vary depending on the scope of support required. Our services are flexible and scalable, designed to adapt to different needs and budgets. We begin with a preliminary consultation to understand objectives and then present a transparent, tailored proposal.

At Especially, we provide end-to-end relocation solutions designed to remove stress, save time, and deliver certainty.

How can readers take the next step?

Our goal is to ensure your move to Greece is structured and exciting, rather than uncertain. To begin your journey, please contact us at info@especially.gr to arrange a 30-minute consultation. Alternatively, you may reach out via our website’s contact form HERE!

Relocating to Greece is an exciting decision, whether motivated by lifestyle, career opportunities, family, or investment. But after the initial enthusiasm, one reality becomes clear: finding the right home in Greece is more complex than simply browsing online listings

Many expatriates discover that house hunting without local expertise can be time-consuming, stressful, and costly. This is where a structured, independent house search can make all the difference with Especially Relocation Agency. 

Online platforms can offer an initial overview of the market, but they rarely reflect its full reality. In Greece, many high quality properties are almost never publicly listed. Others remain advertised long after they are no longer available.

Equally important, listings often fail to convey crucial details like neighborhood dynamics, building standards, noise levels, access to services, or long-term suitability. In a city like Athens, where conditions can vary significantly from one street to the next, these factors matter as much as the property itself. Without local insight, expatriates risk choosing the wrong location, overpaying, or committing to a home that does not align with their lifestyle.

 

In the Greek real estate market, agents typically represent property owners while also working with prospective tenants /buyers. Although this is common practice, it can create uncertainty around whose interests are being prioritized.

An independent house search is built around one fundamental principle: every client is unique. Rather than working with a fixed portfolio, each search begins from zero, shaped entirely by the individual’s lifestyle, priorities, timeline, and long-term plans. With no conflicts of interest, guidance remains transparent, objective, and free from sales pressure, allowing decisions to be made with clarity and confidence. This personalized approach ensures that every recommendation reflects what truly matters to the client, not what happens to be available

 

Relocating is not only about securing a home; it is about settling into daily life. Understanding local procedures, building relationships with reliable professionals, and navigating administrative steps are all part of the transition.

At Especially Relocation agency, the house search process begins with an in-depth consultation. This allows to understand each client’s priorities in detail. Location preferences, lifestyle expectations, family needs, investment perspective, budget parameters, and long-term objectives.

For clients who prefer a structured, end-to-end approach, we offer a comprehensive property search service.

The process includes:

• Thorough mapping of the real estate market to identify the strongest available opportunities.
• Collaboration with carefully selected premium real estate offices.
• Access to both on-market and off-market properties.
• Pre-evaluation and curation of a tailored shortlist.
• Strategic scheduling and accompaniment to property viewings.
• Objective guidance and local insight throughout negotiations and decision-making.

Whether you are looking to buy, rent, or secure temporary accommodation, Especially's house search service is designed to be personal, discreet, and fully supported from start to finish.

To explore the available support for your move, contact info@especially.gr to arrange a 30-minute consultation and discuss the next chapter in Greece.

If you think you don’t know any contemporary Greek designers… think again! Chances are, you’ve actually come across their work far more often than you ever imagined. Greece’s creative scene has been quietly (and sometimes not so quietly) shaping global style, popping up in places you’d never expect, from chic boutiques to international design fairs.

From sun‑soaked Mediterranean hues to beautifully crafted natural materials, the fashion world has been quietly warming up to Greek designers. Leading the way is Vassilis Zoulias, a name you’ve probably encountered without even clocking it : his creations are proudly sported by the most adored (or most hotly debated) expat of them all… Emily Cooper herself, better known as Emily in Paris!

It’s thanks to this very Greek designer that Emily Cooper’s famously colourful wardrobe came to life, the kind of outfits that ensure she never goes unnoticed on the streets of Paris. His pieces match Emily’s bubbly, headstrong personality so well it’s almost as if they were made for her... A total of eighteen looks were selected from Vassilis Zoulias’ prêt‑à‑porter collection, not only for Emily but for the ever-iconic Sylvie too.

Season 2 in particular gives us some unforgettable moments: the “Anouk” dress, a fuchsia A‑line gown that is just made for a glass of red wine in a chic Parisian restaurant; the “Vertigo” jacket, a trapeze cape whose floral pattern became such a hit it turned into an actual Emily in Paris print across multiple pieces; and the “Patricia” dress, a striking one‑shoulder ensemble. In short: vibrant colours, retro motifs, and bold combinations that, whether adored or eye‑rolled by Emily’s entourage on screen or by viewers at home, remain undeniably memorable and delightfully energising.


@emilyinparisoutfits


@emilyinparisoutfits

Zoulias’ signature style is instantly recognisable: mid‑century‑inspired cuts, feminine silhouettes with defined waists, and clean, structured lines. Add to that a gentle nod to the Mediterranean : vibrant colours, sun‑lit patterns, and just a hint of warmth under the Parisian sky. Or, as he neatly sums it up himself: “discreet elegance, femininity, and strong substance.”


@maison.zoulias

With a career spanning more than 35 years — including two decades as a fashion editor for magazines such as Vogue Greece — Vassilis Zoulias finally brought his long‑held dream to life in 2002 by launching his own label. His Athens boutiques now offer everything from prêt‑à‑porter to haute couture, and even bridal collections. His collaboration with Netflix’s hit series Emily in Paris began in 2022 for the show’s second season — a fitting choice, given that the series’ costume consultant is Patricia Field, best known for her iconic work on Sex and the City. Naturally, she turned to designers capable of delivering unforgettable pieces.


@maison.zoulias

If Zoulias was already dressing global stars like Gwen Stefani, Alison Brie, and Mindy Kaling, the serie undeniably shone a brighter international spotlight not only on his work, but on Greek high fashion as a whole. And the momentum doesn’t seem to be slowing down : the latest season ends with Gabriel inviting Emily to join him on his boat just off the coast of Athens … a rather promising setup for anyone hoping to see more Greek flair on screen! In the meantime ... indulge yourself with a little shopping — perhaps a few pieces by Greek designers?


@chrysalia.camera

Moving to a new country is one of life’s most exciting chapters, but let’s be honest: it can also be overwhelming. From navigating the infamous Greek bureaucracy to finding that perfect sun-drenched apartment or the right school for your kids, the "to-do" list feels endless.

This is where Especially steps in, not just as an agency, but as your local partner in Athens.

Founded by Eleftheria Stefanou, who lived the expat life herself, Especially was built on a simple truth: Happiness doesn’t have just one address. Having navigated the hurdles of relocation firsthand, Eleftheria and her team offer something much more valuable than bespoke services; they offer peace of mind. They understand the emotional side of moving and the need to feel "at home" long before the boxes are even unpacked.

Relocation Made Simple

At Especially, relocation isn’t just a service, it is our passion to deliver the best experience to our clients during their relocation to Greece. We transform the complex process of moving to Greece into a seamless, stress-free experience. What could feel overwhelming becomes an exciting new chapter, built around three essential pillars:

• Property & Settling In
  
  Finding a house is easy, finding a home requires expertise. Especially manages the entire journey, from tailored property searches and accompanied viewings to lease negotiations and move-in coordination. Once you have the keys, we stay by your side to handle utility connections, renovations, interior design, furnishings, and the complete setup of your home.
  
  
• The “Paperwork” Shield
  
  Greece is inspiring, but its bureaucracy can be challenging. Especially acts as your personal shield, guiding you through Golden Visa applications, residency permits, and all required legal and tax registrations, working alongside carefully vetted and trusted partners.
  
  
• Family Integration - School Search
  
  Finding the right school is one of the most important decisions for relocating families, and we are here to make the process seamless. Through detailed consultations, we assess each child’s academic background, learning style, and family priorities to create a tailored school shortlist across Greece. We coordinate visits and interviews, assist with applications and documentation, and provide clear insights into curricula, fees, and admissions requirements.

Orientation Tour – Discover Greece with Confidence

Understanding the local environment is key to feeling truly at home. Our personalised orientation tours are designed to introduce clients to their new destination in a practical and meaningful way. Based on lifestyle needs and preferences, we curate private tours covering residential areas, schools, daily life essentials, amenities, and cultural insights to help clients settle with confidence.

Bespoke Lifestyle & Concierge

Beyond the move, Especially stays with you to help you enjoy the very best of your new home. Their concierge service isn't about cookie-cutter tours; it’s about a deeply personal connection to Greece. Whether it’s private yachting in the Aegean, curated shopping with local designers, or securing tickets to exclusive events, they act as the "local friend" who knows all the best-kept secrets.

A Bridge for Business: Corporate Relocation with a Soul  

For companies expanding into Greece or bringing international talent to Athens, Especially acts as an essential support system for the HR department. They recognize that a successful business expansion depends on the well-being of the people driving it.

Why We Love Them

In a world of automated replies, Especially stays refreshingly human. They hand-pick every supplier and partner, from lawyers to interior decorators, to ensure they share the same high standards of care and trustworthiness.

If you’re dreaming of a life in Greece but don’t know where to start, consider this your invitation. With Especially, you’re truly being welcomed into a new community!

Explore their services here | Get in touch with the team

The Los Angeles Chargers have significantly strengthened their presence in Greece by organizing, for the first time, a high-level Flag Football Camp in Thessaloniki today, the steadily growing momentum of the sport ahead of its inclusion in the Olympic Games. Building on the positive response to their last visit in October, the Chargers returned to Greece with the aim of inspiring the next generation of athletes and strengthening the ongoing relationship between the NFL and the Greek sporting community.

A special moment of the day was the presence of Chargers linebacker Daiyan Henley, who was on the field alongside the participants, sharing valuable experiences, specialized technical knowledge, and inspiration from the top level of professional American football. The facilities of Pinewood American International School at the Anatolia Campus were transformed for one day into a fully organized, professional American football training center. More than 300 young athletes actively participated in the program, improving their skills under the guidance of the Los Angeles Chargers' specialized staff, and coaches from the Hellenic Flag Football League, who served as the official coordinators of the event.

On the occasion of their visit to Thessaloniki, the Chargers delegation met with the Mayor of Thessaloniki, Mr. Stelios Angeloudis, while a special event, organized in collaboration with the U.S. Embassy in Greece and the Hellenic-American Chamber of Commerce, was held at the American Space in Thessaloniki.

As Flag Football prepares to make its Olympic debut in 2028, the Los Angeles Chargers' initiative sparked excitement for the future of the sport, leaving a strong impression in the heart of Thessaloniki and Northern Greece.

The Los Angeles Chargers landed in Athens, delivering a high-profile Flag Football showcase that highlighted the sport’s growing Olympic momentum and inspired the next generation of Greek athletes. The premier event in the heart of the Greek capital reinforced Flag Football’s emerging identity as an Olympic discipline, while strengthening the connection between American professional sports and local youth talent. The presence of Chargers linebacker Daiyan Henley electrified the atmosphere, as the NFL star stepped onto the field to inspire young athletes, sharing the same passion, intensity, and competitive spirit he brings to the stadium in Los Angeles.

During the Flag Football activities at The American College of Greece, President Dr. Edward C. Wingenbach welcomed the development program, with the presence of the General Secretary of Sports, Mr. George Mavrotas, while the institution honored Mr. Josh Huck, Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Greece, Mr. Fred Maas, Chief of Staff of the Chargers, and Daiyan Henley, Linebacker of the Los Angeles Chargers with special awards, in recognition of their contribution to the sport’s growth and development.

Through this initiative, the Los Angeles Chargers transformed the world-Class athletic facilities of The American College of Greece, into a professional NFL training environment. A dynamic group of more than 200 Pierce student participants, sharpened their skills at the Flag Football Camp under the expert guidance of the Los Angeles Chargers' staff, and staff from the Hellenic Flag Football League, who coordinated the day’s high-level drills. As the sport moves toward its 2028 Olympic debut, this collaboration has officially positioned Athens as a vital hub in the NFL’s global expansion.

Los Angeles Chargers strengthened their presence in Greece through two powerful NFL initiatives in Athens and Thessaloniki, aimed at promoting and developing Flag Football ahead of its inclusion in the Olympic Games 2028.

In Thessaloniki, the Chargers hosted an outstanding Flag Football Camp for the first time at the facilities of Pinewood American International School at the Anatolia Campus. More than 300 young athletes actively participated in the program, training under the guidance of the Los Angeles Chargers’ specialized staff and the Hellenic Flag Football League. A standout moment of the day was the presence of Chargers linebacker Daiyan Henley, who shared valuable insights and experiences from the highest level of the NFL. During their visit, the Chargers delegation also met with the Mayor of Thessaloniki, Mr. Stelios Angeloudis and participated in a special event organized in collaboration with the U.S. Embassy in Greece and the American-Hellenic Chamber of Commerce at the American Space.

During the second day, a Flag Football Camp was hosted for the first time in Athens, at The American College of Greece, transforming its athletic facilities into a professional NFL training environment. More than 200 students took part in the camp, while representatives from the academic community, government officials, and the U.S. Embassy in Greece were also in attendance. Once again, the participation of Chargers Linebacker Daiyan Henley added strong momentum to the initiative, inspiring the next generation of athletes.

These two initiatives culminated on Sunday, February 8, with a Super Bowl Night Watch Party held at the impressive facilities and studios of COSMOTE TV, the official broadcaster of NFL in Greece. The event brought together government officials such as US Ambassador to Greece, Ms. Kimberly Guilfoyle, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Harry Theoharis, and Secretary General of Sport, Mr. George Mavrotas, athletes, journalists, and members of the Los Angeles Chargers organization, celebrating the NFL and its growing connection with the Greek audience. Guests watched the Super Bowl live from COSMOTE TV and experienced the first NFL Live pre-game show organized in Greece featuring guests directly connected to the event such as the Chief of Staff for the Los Angeles Chargers Mr. Fred Maas, the Chargers Senior Director Football Development Mr. Zac Emde and Chargers Linebacker Daiyan Henley.

On the continued collaboration between the NFL and the Chargers’ flag football activations, the Chief of Staff for the Los Angeles Chargers, Mr. Fred Maas, highlighted: “One of Greece’s greatest strengths is its deep passion for sport, and we truly want to begin our efforts with the youth here."

Through these initiatives, Los Angeles Chargers reaffirm their commitment to the international growth of Flag Football and to building strong, lasting ties with the Greek sports and local community. The presence of the Los Angeles Chargers carried additional symbolic significance, as the Spanos Family team’s ownership has Greek roots, further strengthening the emotional and cultural connection between the NFL organization and Greece. As a result, the Chargers’ activities in Greece represent not only an exciting international expansion, but also a meaningful homecoming that strengthens the cultural and emotional bond between the franchise and the Greek public. The Spanos Family’s vision for the Los Angeles Chargers extends beyond the field, focusing on youth development and the global growth of Flag Football, with Greece seen as a natural hub for long-term grassroots investment. By expanding NFL Flag Football initiatives in Greece, the Chargers aim to create sustainable pathways for youth participation, nurture future talent, and contribute to the sport’s growth ahead of its Olympic debut in Los Angeles 2028. 

All activities were supported by the U.S. Embassy in Greece, whose active involvement underscored the role of sport as a powerful tool for youth engagement, cultural exchange, and community building. Through its support, the Embassy highlighted the importance of interpersonal diplomacy and the shared values that unite Greece and the United States. The collaboration between the Los Angeles Chargers, educational institutions, local authorities, and the U.S. Embassy reflects a broader commitment to fostering international cooperation through sport, creating meaningful opportunities for young people, and strengthening the enduring relationship between the two countries.

For more information on upcoming initiatives in Greece, visit www.chargers.com or follow the Chargers Greece on social media:

THEATRE OF THE NO, Athens’ first English-speaking theatre, presents Samuel Beckett’s iconic one-act play “Krapp’s Last Tape”, one of the most profound and moving works of contemporary theatre. Directed by Elvira Poulianou and starring American actor David Gilliam as Krapp, the performance premieres on Monday, February 16 at 20.30. The play is performed in English with Greek subtitles.

The performance brings to the stage a solitary figure conversing with his past, revealing memories, choices, and missed opportunities. Krapp, an elderly man, sits alone in front of a tape recorder and reels of his old recordings. Through this unique dialogue with his younger self, memories, decisions, losses, and unfulfilled desires unfold from the death of his mother to romantic recollections and abandoned ambitions. Time and memory become the true protagonists in a play where silence is as powerful as the voice.

With bitter humor, moments of heavy silence, and precise language, Beckett’s work reflects on the human inability to reconcile with oneself. Although only one man appears on stage, the echoes of Krapp’s past create a chorus of unseen characters and moments that feel familiar and almost painfully real. The result is a stunning reminder of our relationship with time and the strange intimacy of hearing ourselves speak across the years.

Krapp’s fragile yet piercing journey is both personal and universally recognizable, inviting the audience to reflect on their own lives while watching his unfold on stage.

Elvira Poulianou trained in Athens under Leonidas Trivizas and at the Hatzikos Theatre School. She has performed at the Herodion and Lycabettus Theatre and directed productions such as Short Eyes, Impassioned Embraces, and Written in Sickness, which was awarded by Time Out.

David Gilliam trained at the American Conservatory Theatre in San Francisco. He has performed in repertory productions such as Oedipus Rex and Cyrano de Bergerac, worked with notable directors in film, and appeared in the West End, national tours, and fringe theatre productions, most recently as Vladimir in Waiting for Godot at the Theatre of the NO.

The Theatre of the NO continues its strong support for young and emerging musical talents with the 3rd Open Mic Challenge / New Talents Music Nights. This event offers a unique opportunity for artists to perform original material in sets of up to 45 minutes, while the audience participates actively in a live voting process.

The Open Mic Challenge is an open platform for artistic expression, aiming to highlight new musical voices and foster an active, interactive music community.

Audience Participation & Competition: The audience plays an active role throughout the evening through live voting, selecting their favorite artist. This process strengthens the connection between listeners and creators, showcasing the power of the live music experience.

Awards & Benefits: Each month, one winner is selected, while at the end of the season five finalists will be chosen to compete in the grand finale, where one overall winner will receive a cash prize.

Participation in the competition is unpaid; however, it offers significant benefits in terms of exposure, experience, and networking, serving as an important step forward in the artistic development of the participants.

Date & Time: Thursday, February 19 at 21:00
Entrance Fee: 5€

Credits:

• Poster Design: Sotiria Bramou
• Communications & PR: Eleftheria Sakareli

Submission Guidelines for Artists:
Interested performers can submit their materials to: theatreoftheno@gmail.com