XpatAthens

XpatAthens

There’s something otherwordly beautiful about summer in Greece—the light, the islands, the warmth of the people, and the timeless beauty of its landscapes. But beyond the travel brochures and Instagram reels lies another layer of allure: the Greece we’ve fallen in love with through cinema.

Over the years, filmmakers from around the world have chosen Greece as the backdrop for unforgettable scenes—turning real locations into cultural touchstones and cinematic daydreams. Whether you’re planning your next getaway or simply daydreaming from afar, here’s a look at some iconic films set in Greece that just might inspire your summer in a new way.

Mamma Mia! (2008) – Skopelos & Skiathos

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No list would be complete without this feel-good musical. Set on the fictional island of Kalokairi, the real filming locations were the lush Sporades islands of Skopelos and Skiathos. Think whitewashed chapels perched on dramatic cliffs (remember the wedding scene?), sun-drenched beaches, and winding cobblestone paths that invite spontaneous singing. Even if ABBA isn’t your thing, the scenery alone is enough to book a ferry.

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@loucosporviagem

The Big Blue (1988) – Amorgos

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This cult classic by Luc Besson isn't just a story about free diving—it's a deep, meditative ode to the Aegean Sea. Filmed in Amorgos, especially around the iconic Monastery of Hozoviotissa, the film captures the surreal tranquility and mysticism of the Greek islands like no other. The island’s raw, untouched beauty and azure waters have gained a loyal following thanks to the film.

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@turigaltravels

Before Midnight (2013) – Messinia, Peloponnese

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The third film in Richard Linklater’s beloved trilogy brings Jesse and Celine to the sun-drenched olive groves and ancient stone houses of Messinia, in the southern Peloponnese. It's a quieter, more grounded look at Greece—one steeped in history, conversation, and golden hour light. If you're craving a trip that’s more about connection and less about crowds, this one's your aesthetic.

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@nikos.tsiak

The Two Faces of January (2014) – Athens, Crete

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A psychological thriller set in 1960s Greece, this film takes you from the majestic ruins of the Acropolis to the sun-bleached alleys of Chania, Crete. If you're fascinated by old-world intrigue and neoclassical elegance, this film paints a rich visual portrait of Greece beyond the islands.

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@simytravelphotos

Mediterraneo (1991) – Kastellorizo

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This Italian Oscar-winning film is a hidden gem set on the tiny Dodecanese island of Kastellorizo (also known as Megisti). It tells the story of a group of Italian soldiers stranded on a Greek island during WWII, where they slowly fall under the island’s peaceful spell. The film beautifully captures the laid-back pace of Greek island life, with pastel-colored houses, quiet harbors, and a sense of suspended time. A perfect watch if you're looking for something slow, sun-soaked, and soulful.

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@nikospar1969

Films do more than entertain—they shape the way we dream about places. They give us moodboards for our own adventures. Whether you're hopping on a ferry to Skopelos, sipping wine in the Peloponnese, or simply rewatching these classics from your sofa, each of these films offers a unique lens on Greece in summer.

This season, let cinema be your compass.

 

Parenting can be both rewarding and overwhelming—especially when your child is facing emotional, behavioral, or educational challenges. I’m here to support you through it.

With a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and an MSc in Children and Adolescent Mental Health, I bring over 7 years of hands-on experience as a special educator, working closely with children and families across a wide range of needs. My expertise includes ADHD, learning and developmental difficulties, and all aspects of education-related support.

As a musician, I often incorporate elements of music therapy into my approach, particularly when working with neurodivergent children or those who express themselves creatively. Additionally, my experience with the CSII (International Institute of Cyber Security) enables me to advise parents on online safety, screen time, and managing their child’s digital life responsibly.

I am bilingual and offer sessions in Greek & English, making support more accessible and comfortable for families from different cultures and language backgrounds.

The first session is free, a welcoming space to connect, share your concerns, and explore how I can support you and your child.

Feel free to reach out with any questions or to arrange a session. I look forward to working with you!

📧 angie.vourliotaki@gmail.com
📞 6989298723


Born and raised in Athens, Greece with origins in the Greek diaspora of Africa, I bring more than 20 years of experience in corporate communication and international relations to coaching. As a Communication and Embodied Leadership Coach my approach focuses on the whole person, heart and mind, body and soul, through a unique blend of storytelling, well-being practices and a compassionate presence. 
 
For me true leadership isn’t just about the mindset, nor is it a job title. It is about expanding the capacity to come home to yourself over and over again, in the midst of the storm.  It is a way of being that extends beyond the realm of words, vibrates through your presence and allows you to remain calm under pressure. True leadership radiates confidence, resilience and vision.
 
I work with anyone who wants to get out of the box they are currently in, whether it is a job, a relationship, or the place one lives. I inspire and encourage individuals who find themselves at a crossroad or in transition to slow down and choose from the heart, not only from the head. I make space for people from all walks of life to reignite their spark and create a life they love.

You can find me here: Wonder Works

elpida trizi wellness professional

2025: Certified Somatic Coach by Strozzi Institute (SISC)
2023: Embodied Transformation by Strozzi Institute
2023: Organization and Relationship Systems Coaching (ORSC) Fundamentals
2022: Associate Certified Coach (ACC) by the International Coaching Federation (ICF)
2022: Certified Professional Coactive Coach (CPCC) by the Co-Active Training Institute (CTI)
2021-2022: The Neuroscience of Change “Understand the Brain – Transform your Coaching”, an online coach training by Coaches Rising
2020: Positive Intelligence: Online coaching learning journey and mental fitness program by Shirzad Chamine
2019-2020: Co-Active Coach Training Fundamentals and Intermediate by the Co-Active Training Institute (CTI)
2006: Reiki Level I practitioner 
1996: MA in Image Studies from the University of Canterbury, UK
1994: BSc in Communication & Mass Media from the National & Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece
 
Besides my native Greek, I am fluent in English, French, Italian and German.

Get in touch with me here: Wonder Works 
Monday, 14 July 2025 12:28

Athens Nomad Fest 2025

A week-long celebration of the location-independent lifestyle: inspiring talks, expert panels, workshops, networking, and cultural experiences in the heart of Athens.

Meet global remote workers, entrepreneurs, online freelancers, and creatives exploring the future of work and life—from AI and tax optimization to health, co-living, and community.

Whether you’re a seasoned nomad or simply curious about the remote work movement, join us to connect, learn, and celebrate together.


For more information, please CLICK HERE!

Discover, Connect, and Thrive at Athens Nomad Fest

This September, join us to celebrate Athens as a vibrant hub for digital nomads, remote workers, entrepreneurs, and creatives at Athens Nomad Fest—a dynamic conference and festival dedicated to the future of location-independent living and working.

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Set in one of Europe’s most inspiring cities, this 7-day immersive experience brings together global citizens, founders, freelancers, and changemakers for:

✅ Inspiring talks on AI, tax optimization, entrepreneurship, social media, health, and future trends
✅ Hands-on workshops and unconferences
✅ Community-powered networking and cultural experiences
✅ Rooftop meetups, Yoga, food tours, and an optional Greek island trip

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Highlights:

12–14 September: Opening ceremony, keynote talks, expert panels, and networking
15–16 September: Unconferences, co-working meetups, Yoga, workshops, skill sharing and city adventures
16–19 September: Greek Island Trip to continue connections by the sea (optional)

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Whether you’re an experienced digital nomad, an entrepreneur building your next venture, an online freelancer or simply exploring location-independent lifestyles, Athens Nomad Fest is your invitation to learn, connect, and find your community.

Join us in Athens. Let’s celebrate this lifestyle together!

📅 Dates: 12–19 September 2025
🌍 More info & tickets: www.athensnomadfest.com

October 16-19 - You're invited to experience an unforgettable 4-day/3-night wellness retreat in the stunning setting of the Kinsterna Hotel, a historical five-star estate surrounded by vineyards, olive groves, and Byzantine echoes in the heart of Monemvasia, Peloponnese.
 
This luxury retreat in Greece offers a unique blend of relaxation, local traditions, and cultural exploration. At its heart lies human connection, meaningful conversations, shared laughter and a sense of belonging. This journey will ground you, nourish you, and reconnect you to the simple joy of life that celebrates the harmony of land, heritage, and community.
 
This retreat is open to local and international guests and is held in English. Spots are limited – reserve your place today!

When: October 16-19, 2025
Where: Kinsterna Hotel | Monemvasia, Peloponnese
Price: €990 per person in shared room | €1490 per person in private room
Email: info@eutoniaretreats.com
Contact Number: Ms. Angeliki Mitakou + 30 6944146480 (Viber & WhatsApp)
Organizer's Page: Eutonia Retreats


eutonia harvet october
After its successful debut in 2024, Jazzèt – Hellenic International Jazz Festival returns dynamically for a second consecutive year, on July 20, 21, and 22, 2025, at the iconic Petra Theater.

The festival, which aims to become the new reference point for jazz in Athens, continues its journey by emphasizing the unification of musical cultures, bringing together sounds, rhythms, and people from Greece, the broader region, and the world.

With this year’s motto "Jazz Beyond Frontiers", the Jazzèt Festival makes its position clear: jazz is global, free, borderless — and it unites. Musicians and ensembles from across the globe come together for a three-day celebration of multicultural expression and magic at the heart of summer.

Jazzèt Festival 2025 Program

SUNDAY 20/07/25

  • 21:00 BAG OF NAILS (GREECE)
    Panos Katsikogiannis (vocals, guitar) // Thanos Zacheilas (keyboards, vocals) // Ilias Katis (drums, percussion)

  • 22:00 ESPEN BERG TRIO (NORWAY)
    Espen Berg (piano & composition) // Bárður Reinert Poulsen (double bass) // Simon Albertsen (drums)


MONDAY 21/07/25

  • 20:30 NORTH SIDE TRIO – NEW JAZZ ARTISTS (GREECE)
    Tommy Lynch (saxophone) // Alexandros Tziovas (double bass) // Dimitris Kondos (drums)

  • 21:00 ENOSIS QUARTET (SWEDEN, FINLAND, GREECE)
    Orfeas Wardig Tsoukalas (saxophone) // Thodoris Kotsifas (guitar) // Oli Rantala (double bass) // Johan Birgenius (drums)

  • 22:00 HUMAN TOUCH (GREECE)
    David Lynch (tenor & soprano sax, vocals, flute, piccolo, recorder, cajon) // Giotis Kiourtsoglou (fretless & fretted electric bass) // Stavros Lantsias (piano, keys, drums, percussion)


TUESDAY 22/07/25

  • 21:00 LEFTERIS CHRISTOFIS TRIO (GREECE)
    Lefteris Christofis (electric, acoustic, synthesizer guitars) // Lakis Tzimkas (electric bass) // Kostas Anastasiadis (drums)

  • 22:00 DWIKI DHARMAWAN’S ATHENIAN ENSEMBLE (INDONESIA, UK, GREECE)
    Dwiki Dharmawan (piano) // Gilad Atzmon (saxophones, clarinet) // Ita Purnamasari (vocals) // Dede Yanto (multi-ethnic instruments) // Vyron Dolas (electric guitar) // Kimon Karoutzos (double bass) // Nikos Sidirokastritis (drums)

Friday, 11 July 2025 12:43

Athens Open Air Film Festival 2025

 

Celebrating 15 Years of Cinema Under the Stars

The beloved Athens Open Air Film Festival returns for its 15th edition, transforming iconic locations around the city into open-air cinemas — from archaeological sites and public parks to cultural landmarks. With digitally restored classicscult favorites, and themed film marathons, this summer-long celebration of cinema is entirely free of charge.

In collaboration with institutions such as the Hellenic Foundation for Culture, the Museum of Cycladic Art, and the French Institute of Greece, the festival blends film with literature, history, and art.

Follow the hashtag #aoaff15 for updates.

Upcoming Screenings – July & August

Saturday, July 12 | Plato’s Academy Park, Monastiriou 137, Akadimia Platonos

🎞 80s Horror Marathon

  • 21:45 – The Fog (1980, 89’) – Dir. John Carpenter

  • 23:30 – A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984, 91’) – Dir. Wes Craven

  • 01:15 – Sleepaway Camp (1983, 88’) – Dir. Robert Hiltzik
    All digitally restored prints


Monday, July 14 | Kotzia Square (Athinas Street entrance)

🎞 The Hairdresser’s Husband (1990, 82’)

21:30 | Dir. Patrice Leconte

In celebration of France’s National Day – in collaboration with the French Institute of Greece.


Thursday, July 17 | Anesis Open-Air Cinema, Kifisias Ave. 14

🎞 Any Number Can Win (1963, 118’)

21:00 | Dir. Henri Verneuil

With Jean Gabin & Alain Delon – digitally restored version.

In collaboration with the French Institute of Greece.


Tuesday, July 23 | Drakopoulou Park, Athens

🎞  A World of Gods and Monsters: Two James Whale Classics

  • 21:30 – Bride of Frankenstein (1935, 75’)

  • 22:45 – The Invisible Man (1933, 71’)


Friday, July 25 | Technopolis City of Athens, Pireos 100

🎞 Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000, 119’)

21:30 | Dir. Ang Lee

Stunning martial arts epic in a digital restored version.


Tuesday, July 29 | Eleftherias Park, Vasilissis Sofias Ave.

🎞 Mamma Roma (1962, 106’)

21:30 | Dir. Pier Paolo Pasolini

Special screening curated by artist Marlene Dumas in collaboration with the Museum of Cycladic Art.


Thursday, August 21 | Anesis Open-Air Cinema, Kifisias Ave. 14

🎞 India Song (1975, 120’)

21:00 | Dir. Marguerite Duras

A haunting French classic – 50th anniversary screening with the French Institute of Greece.


Wednesday, August 27 | "El Paso" Stadium, Kallithea

🎞 For a Few Dollars More (1965, 132’)

21:30 | Dir. Sergio Leone

Spaghetti Western masterpiece starring Clint Eastwood – digitally restored for its 60th anniversary.

In collaboration with Athens Kallithea FC.


Tip: Arrive early to grab a good spot and enjoy the pre-screening atmosphere. All screenings start promptly and are subject to weather conditions. Bring your own blanket, snacks, and cinema-loving friends!

Full program and details: Athens Open Air Film Festival Official Website

Friday, 11 July 2025 12:29

Summer At The Maria Callas Museum

This summer, the Maria Callas Museum of the City of Athens welcomes locals and  visitors with a series of creative and engaging events that bring together art,  imagination, and the vibrant atmosphere of the city. Every Sunday in July, Mitropoleos  Square transforms into an open-air art corner with La Mia Maria: Create your own  carte postale!, a colourful drop-in activity for all ages. On the night of the July full  moon, the museum stays open late for Under the Moonlight—a special evening  experience featuring reduced admission, music from a live DJ set, and breathtaking  views of the Acropolis. Throughout July and August, visitors of all ages can also join interactive guided tours offered in Greek and English, and discover the life and legacy of  Maria Callas in new and inspiring ways. 

EVENTS & ACTIVITIES 

Every Sunday of July |
La Mia Maria: Create your own carte postale! 

Where will your own carte postale travel? 

Every Sunday of July, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, children and adults alike can create their own  commemorative carte postale featuring a portrait of Maria Callas using the stencil technique. 

In this fun activity, you will get to know the great opera diva through an artistic process full of  colors and imagination. When you leave, you’ll have a unique keepsake that will remind you of  this special encounter with your very own Maria Callas. 

Every Sunday, Mitropoleos Square comes alive with creativity and joy! Come with your friends  or family, enjoy a stroll through the city center, and make a stop for some art, imagination,  and… your very own carte postale! 

Time: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM 
Duration of creating the carte postale: approximately 15 minutes 
Location: Mitropoleos Square – directly across from the entrance of the Maria Callas Museum Free participation – No reservation required, first-come, first-served basis 

La Mia Maria Stencils 1 Maria Callas Museum

GUIDED TOURS 

The Maria Callas Museum, recently honored with a special commendation at the EMYA 2025,  invites visitors to experience the world of opera and the life of one of its greatest divas through  the guided tours offered in English. This unique museum is entirely dedicated to celebrating  the remarkable work and personality of Maria Callas. 

Among its priceless exhibits are rare and personal items from the life and career of this  extraordinary artist, whose extraordinary vocal range, distinctive tone, stage presence, and  musical mastery forever transformed the opera landscape. 

A visit to the museum is an immersive experience that awakens all the senses. Visitors delve  into the opera world and Callas’s legacy through engaging, experiential learning, enhanced by  audiovisual presentations, multimedia technology, texts, soundscapes, and historical artifacts. 

Date: July 16 & 30, August 7 & 21 
Time: 12:00 PM 
Duration: 50 minutes
Cost: 14€ – Reduced ticket categories also apply 
Reservation required via more.com. Book your ticket for the English guided tour here!

Discover the magic of Maria Callas through a unique family experience in the heart of Athens! 

A must-visit cultural destination, the Maria Callas Museum invites families on an inspiring  journey into the world of the legendary soprano. Through interactive exhibits and modern  audiovisual displays, children are introduced to the fascinating universe of opera in a way that  is fun, creative, and memorable. 

Our specially designed family tours keep both young and older visitors engaged, offering not  only knowledge but also moments of connection and shared discovery. 

Dates: July 16 & 30, August 7 & 21 
Time: 13:30 
Duration: 50 minutes 
Cost: €7 per child (ages 9–17), €14 per adult, €30 per family (two adults and at least one child  aged 9–17) 
Note: Family tours can also be arranged on alternative dates upon request. For more information, please contact us at visit@mariacallasmuseum.gr or +30 210 44 04 204 (Monday–Friday, 11:00–18:00).
September 15-21 - Join us for a transformative Brain-Health & Yoga Retreat on the sacred slopes of Mount Olympus, where science meets serenity and ancient energy inspires deep renewal.

This unique retreat combines cutting-edge, evidence-based brain-health practices with the timeless wisdom of yoga, breathwork, and mindfulness.

 
Through expertly guided sessions, you’ll explore the powerful connection between mind and body, gaining practical tools to enhance mental clarity, emotional resilience, and nervous system regulation.
 
Each day includes gentle yet energizing yoga flows, calming meditation, breathwork techniques, and brainhealth workshops to reduce stress and get a clear mind, all designed to help you rewire thought patterns and restore balance from within. Nourishing meals, spacious time in nature, and an intimate community atmosphere further support your journey.
 
Set against the mythic backdrop of Mount Olympus — a place of natural majesty and spiritual significance — this retreat offers the ideal environment to disconnect from everyday demands, reconnect with yourself, and return home with renewed clarity, vitality, and purpose.

Perfect for anyone seeking a holistic reset, whether you're navigating stress, seeking inspiration, or simply craving a deeply revitalizing experience rooted in nature and neuroscience.

When: September 15-21, 2025
Where: Mount Olympus
Email: brainhealthandyoga@gmail.com
Organizer's Retreat Page: Brainhealth & Yoga Retreat

Brain Health Yoga Retreat 2
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