Trivago, the well-known hotel search engine, recently announced the national winners of the “trivago Awards” 2019.

“As a leading global hotel metasearch with data on millions of aggregated guest ratings, we are well positioned to identify the top-rated hotels that are delivering exceptional guest experiences,” said Johannes Thomas, trivago Managing Director and Chief Revenue Officer.

“At the same time, being a digital marketing channel used by hundreds of thousands of hoteliers around the world enables us to recognize the hotels that are embracing technology and excelling online. The trivago Awards give us the chance to honor the hard-working and forward-looking hoteliers behind these exemplary hotels,” he added.

Among the winning hotels are: the five-star Lindos Blu Luxury Hotel & Suites on Rhodes, the four-star Rocabella Mykonos Hotel, the three-star Saint Vlassis hotel on Naxos island.

To read the full list of awarded Greek hotels, please visit: Greek Travel Pages

CEOWORLD magazine has determined the world’s best countries for cultural heritage influence, by measuring their global influence in 9 country attributes: architecture, artistic legacy, fashion, food, music, literature, history, cultural attractions, and culturally accessible. Rather than economic, political, or military might, it’s the cultural heritage of these countries that most strongly impacts the wider world.

Italy took the prestigious number one spot, according to the CEOWORLD magazine 2021 report, while Greece and Spain placed second and third, respectively. The 2021 rankings placed India in fourth ahead of Thailand; while Portugal ranked sixth, and Japan seventh.

About Greece, the website said “the history development and culture of Greece has been a flagbearer for the whole world as a whole."

“From the Acropolis of Athens, Meteora to Temple of Apollo Epicurius at Bassae, the impressive architectural monuments make Greece a definite visit in many ways.”

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

The family-friendly island of Sifnos is a great choice for travelers looking to snap some gorgeous holiday pictures, according to the publication.

The Greek island of Sifnos topped the list with the ten most photogenic destinations of the world, according to the Spanish edition of Condé Nast Traveler, the largest travel magazine worldwide.

The Cycladic island came first with the Church of the Seven Martyrs, the idyllic landscapes, the Castle, the numerous churches, and the picturesque villages that charm all the travelers that visit the island of Apollo every year, the writer of the article Alberto Piernas Medina says.

Second was Morocco followed by Valencia, Portugal, and its lakes, France, the Canary Islands, Mexico, London, and the verdant regions of Italy.

Originally published on: greece-is.com

Main image: @greek_vibes_wd

Seven out of the ten top sustainable beaches globally grace the shores of Europe, with two proudly located in Greece. Whether world-renowned or tucked-away gems, Greek beaches stand out for their unparalleled beauty, capturing the admiration of both international media and visitors alike.

Spanning from the Ionian and Cyclades to Crete and the Dodecanese, Greece boasts an array of beaches, inviting travelers to dip their toes into crystalline waters and unwind amidst breathtaking landscapes.

Recently, Greece celebrated a notable achievement as two of its beaches—one in the Aegean and another in the Ionian—claimed spots among the world's top 10 sustainable beaches for 2024, recognized through the esteemed Tripadvisor Travelers Choice Awards.

These accolades were based on user preferences on the popular travel platform, highlighting criteria such as serene waters, pristine sands, family-friendly amenities, cleanliness, and eco-conscious practices observed by beachside establishments. Galissas Beach in Syros and Myrtos Beach in Kefalonia stood out for their commitment to sustainability and guest satisfaction.

Travelers' growing emphasis on environmental stewardship and sustainability significantly influenced their choices for beach destinations. In fact, over half of Tripadvisor users now prioritize eco-friendliness when selecting their next travel spot, underscoring a shifting tide towards responsible tourism practices.

Collaborating with the travel sustainability firm BeCause, data from Blue Flag-certified beaches—indicative of cleanliness and safety—was utilized for the assessment, spanning from May 2023 to April 2024. These findings were complemented by positive reviews highlighting terms such as 'eco-friendly,' 'ecological tourism,' and 'clean water' over a 12-month period, providing a comprehensive overview of each beach's sustainability efforts and appeal.

Originally published in Greek on: intronews.gr

Step into the heart of festive magic at the Kypseli Municipal Market, where the holiday spirit comes alive in the most vibrant and heartwarming way! This season, the Market transforms into a dazzling Christmas wonderland, brimming with unique pop-up stores, creative workshops, live performances, and special events for all ages. From handcrafted gifts and eco-friendly treasures to delicious treats and joyful activities, every corner of the Market is bursting with holiday cheer. Whether you're here to shop, create, or simply soak in the festive atmosphere, the Kypseli Municipal Market is your go-to destination for a truly magical Christmas experience.

Events

Fresh from the Farm: “Bostani” Market
Discover an array of fresh, natural, and organic produce straight from small-scale farmers at the “Bostani” market. A celebration of healthy eating and sustainable agriculture awaits you every week!

• When: Every Wednesday, 14:00–17:00 (Special hours on Wednesday, 18/12: 12:00–17:00)
• Where: Atrium
• Admission: Free

Fired Up Ceramics Fair
The Fired Up Athens Ceramics Fair returns to the beloved Kypseli Municipal Market for a weekend of artistry and craftsmanship! Meet talented ceramicists, explore their creations, and find unique pieces to take home.

• When: Saturday 7/12 & Sunday 8/12, 11:00–21:00
• Where: Atrium
• Admission: Free

AFROfitness: Dance, Fitness, and Party Vibes!

Get ready to move and groove at the Kypseli Municipal Market as the Bantu Dancers introduce you to the vibrant world of AFROfitness! This exciting workout combines elements of Afro Dance with high-energy movements, blending traditional African dance expressions with modern styles.

AFROfitness offers a unique way to:

• Develop fluidity and range of motion
• Explore authentic and expressive movements inspired by African traditions
• Improve endurance, coordination, and overall fitness

This full-body workout feels like a party while boosting your confidence and physical strength. Perfect for anyone looking to have fun and stay fit!

• When: Monday, 9/12, 19:00–20:30
• Where: Atrium
• Admission: Free (Reservation required—secure your spot here)

Christmas Blood Drive
Join the Kypseli Municipal Market and Blood-e for a special Christmas blood drive. Together, we can make a difference and give the gift of life this holiday season.

• When: Thursday, 12/12, 09:00–13:00
• Where: Creative Lab 2
• Admission: Free

A Discussion on the Work of Christos Vakalopoulos
Join SKRIP Bookstore and Estia Publications for a conversation about the life and work of Christos Vakalopoulos, coinciding with the re-release of his books. The event will be held in his favorite place in the world—Kypseli.

• When: Thursday, 12/12, 19:00–21:00
• Where: Atrium
• Admission: Free

Christmas Book Fest
Celebrate the holidays with the most festive Book Fest in town at the Kypseli Municipal Market! Explore holiday reads, find unique gifts and charms for the New Year, and enjoy tasty snacks, warm drinks, craft beers from Greek breweries, mulled wine, and treats.

Throughout the three-day event, enjoy activities for all ages, including painting workshops, educational games, book presentations, performances, and live music.

• When: Friday, 13/12 to Sunday, 15/12, 10:00–22:00
• Where: Atrium
• Admission: Free

Book Presentation: "O Xaplas and His Friend Melodia"
Author Mariza Tsaga invites you to the presentation of her delightful book "O Xaplas and His Friend Melodia," published by Komninos Editions.

• When: Saturday, 14/12, 11:00–15:00
• Where: Creative Lab 1
• Admission: Free

ReinArt Christmas Event: “The Canvas Within”
ReinArt Projects invites you to the second episode of their art podcast, “The Canvas Within,” with a special Christmas theme. This episode will explore the relationship between art, wishes, inclusion, and creation.

• When: Sunday, 15/12, 17:00–19:00
• Where: Creative Lab 2
• Admission: Free

Is It Time to Do It?
In honor of World AIDS Day (December 1), the specialized team from Athens Checkpoint will be at Kypseli Municipal Market to provide HIV testing and information on sexual health, supported by the AIDS Healthcare Foundation. With the message "Is it time to do it?", Checkpoint invites everyone to set aside hesitation and take a quick, painless, and confidential HIV test.

• When: Mondays, 2/12 & 16/12, 11:00–15:00
• Where: Creative Lab 2
• Admission: Free

KETHEA Christmas Bazaar
The Open Rehabilitation Program KETHEA DIAVASI invites you to its Christmas Bazaar, featuring unique, handmade creations lovingly crafted by program members and the Family Association. Join us to exchange holiday wishes, admire these special items, and enjoy a festive atmosphere filled with positivity and care.

• When:
  • Monday, 16/12, 13:00–21:00
  • Tuesday, 17/12, 10:00–21:00
• Where: Atrium
• Admission: Free

Christmas with the Neighborhood at the Market!
Local schools and organizations come together for a festive open market at the bright Atrium of the Municipal Market. Don’t miss the Brass Fun Christmas concert in motion, spreading joy from 19:00 to 20:15.

• When: Wednesday, 18/12, 12:00–21:00
• Where: Atrium
• Admission: Free

Christmas Solidarity Celebration
The humanitarian organization Koinoniko EKAV presents its annual Christmas Solidarity Celebration at the Kypseli Municipal Market. Come and share the spirit of giving and joy with the community!

• When: Thursday, 19/12, 13:00–21:00
• Where: Atrium
• Admission: Free

Xmas Creators’ Market: A Frau.les Event
Get ready for a four-day market packed with Christmas gifts, treats, snacks, and surprises! The Creators’ Market features over 70 designers and artists showcasing jewelry, self-care items, candles, art, accessories, ceramics, home decor, handmade crafts, upcycled and vintage clothing, and more. Enjoy beers, wines, sweets, sandwiches, live music, and a festive vibe you won’t want to miss!

• When: Friday, 20/12 to Monday, 23/12, 11:00–20:00
• Where: Atrium
• Admission: Free

Kypseli XMAS BEAT
Celebrate Christmas Eve at the Kypseli Municipal Market with an all-day festive event featuring food, drinks, music, family-friendly activities, and a vibrant holiday atmosphere!

• When: Tuesday, 24/12, 13:00–23:00
• Where: Atrium
• Admission: Free

"Kypselakia" Celebrate at the Market!
On Boxing Day, bring all the little ones to the Market for a special Christmas event featuring "Playful Magic"—a delightful holiday performance for children.

• When: Thursday, 26/12, 11:30–13:00
• Where: Atrium
• Admission: Free

Athens Cocktails
Athens Cocktails comes to Kypseli Municipal Market for an exciting music event. Enjoy expertly crafted cocktails by some of the city’s top bartenders, all for just €6 each!

• When: Friday, 27/12, 16:00–23:00
• Where: Atrium
• Admission: Free

Open Market
From December 29 to 31, the Kypseli Municipal Market transforms into a festive Open Market, showcasing handmade and traditional products. Meet local artisans, support small businesses, and find unique treasures in a cozy, lively atmosphere. A true celebration for fans of handcrafted goods in the heart of Kypseli.

• When: Sunday, 29/12 to Tuesday, 31/12
  • Sunday & Monday: 10:00–21:00
  • Tuesday: 10:00–18:00
• Where: Atrium
• Admission: Free

Workshops

Explore a variety of engaging workshops this holiday season at the Kypseli Municipal Market, designed for all ages and interests. From art and cooking to digital skills and first aid, there's something for everyone!

1. Internet Skills for 60+
A popular workshop returns, teaching older adults how to navigate the internet. Learn to browse, find useful information, communicate online, and perform public transactions—all using a tablet.

• Advanced Class: Tuesdays, 1/10–3/12, 10:00–12:00
• Beginner Class: Wednesdays, 2/10–4/12, 10:00–12:00
• Where: Creative Lab 1
• Cost: €60 for the 10-session cycle
• Pre-sale: Tickets available on more.com

2. Marmelada Kypseli: Sketching with Pan Pan
Dive into the art of comic creation with Pan Pan! Experiment with tools, techniques, and approaches to unleash your creativity—no prior experience required.

• When: Thursdays, 3/10–5/12, 19:00–21:00
• Where: Creative Lab 1
• Cost: €13 per session
• Pre-sale: Tickets available on more.com

3. Sugar-Free Christmas Treats
Join "Astiki Melissa" to make Christmas desserts using honey instead of sugar. Create simple snacks and intricate holiday sweets.

• When: Sunday, 1/12, 12:00–14:00
• Where: Creative Lab 1
• Admission: Free (Reservation required at welcome@astikimelissa.gr or in-store)

4. Creative Christmas Art: Parent & Child
Enjoy a festive art session with your child, surrounded by holiday cheer, lights, and hot chocolate! Designed for children aged 6–9.

• When: Wednesdays, 4, 11, & 18/12, 18:00–19:30
• Where: Creative Lab 1
• Cost: €12 per session (1 child + 1 guardian)
• Pre-sale: Tickets available on more.com

5. DIY Beeswax Balms: Natural Cosmetics Workshop
Discover the art of making natural skincare products with beeswax, plant oils, and essential oils. Create your own balm to take home!

• When: Wednesday, 4/12, 18:30–20:00
• Where: Creative Lab 1
• Cost: €30 per person
• Reservations: Email welcome@astikimelissa.gr or visit the Astiki Melissa store

6. Plant Propagation Workshop
Learn the easiest way to propagate plants using water, and take your new plant home!

• When: First Thursday of the month through December, 18:30–19:30
• Where: Creative Lab 2
• Admission: Free (Reservation required, here)

7. Art Therapy Group
Explore art therapy in a safe and supportive environment. Express yourself through painting, collage, and mixed media while connecting with your emotions and personal stories.

• When: Mondays, 9 & 23/12, 17:00–19:00
• Where: Creative Lab
• Admission: Free (Registration required at this link)

8. First Aid for Infants, Children & Adults
This hands-on workshop covers essential first aid techniques, including CPR, choking relief, and more, for people of all ages.

• When: Tuesday, 12/11, 17:30–19:00
• Where: Creative Lab 2
• Cost: €30
• Registration: Through Momscent’s Instagram or at 6979545608

9. Art Therapy Workshop: Christmas Edition
Celebrate Christmas through art and explore its deeper meaning, memories, and emotions in this unique art therapy session.

• When: Friday, 13/12, 18:00–20:00
• Where: Creative Lab 1
• Admission: Free (Registration required, here)

10. Pet First Aid Workshop
Learn how to provide emergency care for your pets, including basic first aid techniques for common injuries and issues.

• When: Tuesday, 17/12, 17:30–19:00
• Where: Creative Lab 2
• Cost: €30
• Registration: Through Momscent’s Instagram or at 6979545608

11. 2025 Calendar Painting Workshop
Design and paint your own personalized calendar for the upcoming year in this creative workshop.

• When: Saturday, 21/12, 19:00–21:00
• Where: Creative Lab 2
• Cost: €30 per person
• Registration: Email chrysoliesart@gmail.com or call 6984561871

12. Children’s Christmas Illustration Workshop
Young artists (ages 6–12) will create magical Christmas-themed illustrations in this fun workshop.

• When: Sunday, 22/12, 12:00–14:00
• Where: Creative Lab 2
• Cost: €20 per child

Registration: Email chrysoliesart@gmail.com or call 6984561871

Shopping

The Kypseli Municipal Market transforms into a vibrant hub for festive shopping, offering a variety of unique pop-up stores and resident shops catering to every taste. Visitors can explore jewelry from Happy Love Creation x Yphes, handmade vegan wellness products from Ichnossoap, and soy candles by Aurora Art Project. Paavcreations, Nātural Soy Candles, and Evie Kaplani add to the charm with vintage-inspired jewelry, artful posters, and room fragrances. Don't miss Blank Multiactive Studio Gallery, where hand-designed streetwear and live silk-screen printing demonstrations combine creativity and sustainability.

For those seeking gifts with character and purpose, Mnous offers eco-friendly loungewear, and Lustsummer captures the essence of holiday escapes with breezy streetwear. Shoppers can also find timeless vintage fashion at Hazel Rey Vintage or explore eco-conscious designs at Thoughts Reworked x The Freckle Concept. Resident stores like Hōkō provide minimalist home décor with a Scandinavian-Japanese flair, while Astiki Melissa showcases urban honey varieties perfect for gourmet gifts. Book lovers will delight in the offerings at SKRIP and the whimsical POLY KOOL Bookstore, while craft enthusiasts can discover intricate handmade creations at Modistra Hopemade, a sewing workshop supporting reintegration programs for women. Whether you’re shopping for heartfelt gifts or indulging in festive treats, Kypseli Municipal Market is the ultimate destination for holiday cheer and meaningful purchases.

After the successful hosting of Nations Cup in May, Crete is getting ready to welcome yet another top-tier international sporting event: CEV Beach Volley European Cup Final, which will take place from November 6 to 9, 2025 at TUI Magic Life Candia Maris, member of Metaxa Hospitality Group, in Heraklion.

It is a major celebration that brings together top European teams and offers high-level spectacle, while also strengthening sports tourism and promoting Crete’s international profile. The tournament is part of the official international calendar and is held under the auspices of the European Volleyball Confederation (CEV), with the co-organization of the Region of Crete, the Hellenic Volleyball Federation, the Municipality of Malevizi, and Metaxa Hospitality Group.

European Cup is a new initiative by the European Volleyball Confederation (CEV), aiming to strengthen and further develop the sport of beach volleyball. It is a club-based European competition, where teams from various countries represent their national leagues on the international stage. Through this new institution, CEV aspires to expand the scope of the sport beyond traditional international tournaments, giving clubs an active role and creating new opportunities for athletes, national federations, and local communities. Participation is based on the teams’ performance in their national championships, which are officially recognized by the Confederation.

The event includes both men’s and women’s competitions and is designed to complement the CEV’s existing tournament ecosystem, with the goal of promoting the sport at both national and international levels.

European Cup Final will take place in Crete, where the European champion will be crowned, turning the island into a focal point for the only Olympic sport played on sand.

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Watch the official trailer of the event HERE!

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Benefits for the local economy & the tourism promotion of Crete

TUI Magic Life Candia Maris and Metaxa Hospitality Group actively demonstrate their commitment to promoting sports tourism. In cooperation with the Hellenic Volleyball Federation, they possess the infrastructure, expertise, and organizational capability to host a top-tier European sporting event such as European Cup. This trust is no coincidence. It follows the resounding success of the CEV Nations Cup held in May at the very same modern facilities. Crete and Metaxa Hospitality Group — with the valuable support of the Region of Crete, the Hellenic Volleyball Federation and the Municipality of Malevizi — successfully co-organized a high-standard event comparable to similar international competitions.

With a strategic goal of establishing Crete as a global sports and tourism destination, this event serves as a powerful tool for enhancing the island’s international profile and strengthening its identity in the global tourism landscape.

This sporting event will contribute to extending the tourist season beyond the summer months by attracting visitors during a period that traditionally experiences lower tourist activity. The fact that the European Cup brings together athletes, officials, accompanying persons, journalists, and fans from across Europe boosts the local economy on multiple levels — from accommodation and dining to transportation and local markets.

At the same time, through the promotion of the event in international and European media, Crete is showcased as a destination that uniquely combines natural beauty, tourism infrastructure, and opportunities for quality sports tourism throughout the year.

Another major beach volleyball event comes to Greece, and it would not have been possible without the contribution of Technical Director Vangelis Polimeropoulos through the Best Sports Marketing Agency in Greece, ActiveMedia Group. 

Messinia Challenge returns more dynamically than ever on May 8-10, 2026, offering a unique three day event of sports, entertainment, and social contribution. Centered around Costa Navarino and Messinia, this year's event joins forces with leading brands and local entities, promising unforgettable experiences for athletes, companions, and visitors.

In a highly competitive environment, against many worthy candidates and strong foreign brands organizing international races in Greece, Messinia Challenge managed to stand out in the most emphatic way at the Sports Marketing Awards. The event garnered a total of 23 distinctions, setting a historic record, as these are the most awards ever received by a sports event in the country within this specific institution. This great success, which includes 2 Platinum, 10 Gold, 10 Silver, and 1 Bronze award, constitutes the ultimate culmination of strategic cooperation with leading global brands and institutional bodies, confirming the enormous potential of the Messinia Challenge and highlighting it as the top sports tourism event in Greece.

A special place in this year's Messinia Challenge schedule is held by Miele, which, as a Platinum Sponsor, highlights gastronomy once again as a key pillar of the overall experience. At the specially designed Miele Open House, participants and visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy a unique gastronomic journey, participating in a series of experiential workshops featuring the acclaimed chef Andreas Lagos. 

Through the interactive experiences of the “Workshops by Miele,” the public will discover modern techniques and creative approaches to Greek cuisine, giving a new, exciting dimension to favorite recipes, such as handmade gnocchi and traditional Messinian youvarlakia. This celebration of taste culminates in the most dynamic way through live gastronomic actions, such as the “Messinia Cooking Challenge by Miele” and the “Pasta Station by Miele”. There, Miele's chef, Alexandros Syngkiridis, will create a complete journey of flavors that will thrill all attendees, combining raw materials from the Messinian land with Miele's innovative technologies.

NIO, the innovative electric car manufacturer and member of the MOTODYNAMICS Group, participates dynamically in Messinia Challenge, representing the future of electromobility and bringing a new, fresh approach to sustainable urban mobility. The rhythm of the event will be set by the impressive NIO firefly as the “lead car” at the start, which won the title of “World Urban Car” for 2026. It is a modern, all-electric car that, with its cutting-edge technology, dynamic design, and smart practicality solutions, fits perfectly with the philosophy of an event that consistently looks forward. During the weekend, NIO will offer unique experiences to participants by organizing the first golf tournament, The NIO Messinia Golf Open, at the award-winning courses of Costa Navarino. The company's presence will culminate with a grand premiere: the spectacular awards party called The Electric Pulse by NIO, where Special Guest DJ Alexandros Christopoulos will take over to elevate the night.

SIXT, member of the MOTODYNAMICS Group, as the Premium Mobility Partner of Messinia Challenge, is committed to making every participant's journey not only perfectly safe but a truly special and unique experience. The company provides an impressive fleet of vehicles covering every need: from state-of-the-art SUVs and spacious vans to eco-friendly electric models and premium vehicles for the transportation of VIP guests. Furthermore, pioneering once again, SIXT will provide a special van this year that will exclusively serve the transfers of participants within the hotel facilities. Beyond top-tier road mobility, however, SIXT also focuses on body mobility. On Friday, at the Costa Navarino premises, the company joins forces with Joint Athens and specialized physiotherapists Angelos Giakoumidis and Giorgos Poulianitis to implement a comprehensive activity titled “Mobility & Recovery,” offering practical solutions for lower back relief and the management of musculoskeletal fatigue.

Hellmann’s, inextricably linked to the joy of sharing moments with loved ones, supports the Family Fun Football Game as a sponsor, a delightful football match where parents and children will become one team, playing and laughing with all their heart. Additionally, Hellmann’s will offer a rich BBQ night exclusively for the event's guests on Friday evening. The action continues with the Hellmann’s Bike Tour, implemented by Moraitis Outdoors, where families and groups of friends will pedal through the magnificent and protected Natura environment of the Gialova lagoon and Voidokilia. The culinary experience of the event is dynamically complemented by Knorr at the Messinia Challenge Food Corner, presenting its new premium launches: the innovative Home-style Stocks with red and white wine extract.

Napapijri is present as a Bronze Sponsor, undertaking to dress the participants of the golf tournament in high-aesthetic polo shirts, hats, practical bags, and rich gifts. Beyond the athletic part, Napapijri actively supports the charity auction “To Save a Child”. In this context, the recognized Greek street artist and illustrator Same84, known for his unique visual style and collaborations with important brands and organizations, is an invited guest.

SKY express participates for the first time in Messinia Challenge as the Official Airline. With its modern fleet and constantly growing network, it makes access from 27 destinations of the Old Continent to Greece easier and, by extension, to Europe's leading wellness event. This collaboration takes on special significance as it comes immediately after the company's top distinction as “Airline of the Year 2025” by the ERA (European Regions Airline Association), a fact that confirms its pivotal role in connecting the country with abroad and its support for sports tourism.

One of the most important innovations is the creation of specialized recovery stations for running, golf, beach volley, and tennis athletes. The care is undertaken by the state-of-the-art physiotherapy center located in Alimos, Attica, Physio-Treat, and Anastasia Apostolou. Valuable allies in this mission are Hyperice of the Nexion group (the No. 1 brand worldwide in warm-up, recovery, and rehabilitation products) and Anatomic Line (with a leading presence in the field of orthopedic and medical technology products), ensuring absolute muscle relaxation and safety for participants.

The curtain falls on the top sports tourism festival in the most impressive way, through a dynamic closing party at Navarino Agora, open to both the event participants and the public of Messinia. On Sunday, May 10, at 20:00, the decks will be taken over by the acclaimed DJ and producer Junior Rush. With an international presence from New York to London and a career that started from Greece's top dance clubs, he remains faithful to his philosophy: absolute connection with the dance floor and the ability to raise the pulse to the maximum. The favorite VIKOS COLA will provide rhythm and refreshment to the evening, keeping energy levels high. As the music goes up and the vibe peaks, Bacardi, the authentic rum from the Caribbean, comes to blend perfectly with VIKOS COLA, creating the signature cocktail of the night: an enjoyable Bacardi Cola that becomes the ultimate symbol of the summer party. A closing full of intensity and positive energy under the Messinian sky in a setting that promises intense moments. Admission is free for all the public.

Messinia Challenge is deeply rooted, having leading Messinian businesses by its side. Pilia Express, as the Official Logistics Partner, guarantees that the huge volume of equipment for the five-day production will arrive with absolute safety. The Memmos Dairy from Kopanaki offers its famous creamy “armi” for traditional riganades, while Messinian Spa natural cosmetics will offer an authentic care experience based on the region's excellent olive oil. At the same time, the historical Silk Gonos Silk & Woven Industry highlights the rich heritage. Finally, the City Hospital Clinic of Kalamata undertakes the full medical support of the event with specialized doctors and ambulances, having the experienced rescuers of the Hellenic Rescue Team (HRT) of Messinia as valuable allies.

Dynamically moving into the new digital era, Messinia Challenge presents the event's brand-new mobile application, designed by Mind the Ad. Available on iOS and Android, the app functions as the ultimate digital guide for the athletic three-day event, offering users real-time information, direct access to the program, and a constant flow of announcements. Simultaneously, it ensures exclusive content and special privileges, as the use of discount coupons and offers from sponsors is carried out strictly through the application. It is an evolving digital ecosystem that upgrades the overall experience of participants before, during, and after the event.

Messinia Challenge awards are the only ones in Greece where athletes are distinguished not only for their performances but primarily for their ethos and solidarity. The highlight is the annual presentation of the established “Alexandros Nikolaidis” award, in collaboration with the Hellenic Olympic Committee (HOC). The trophies are a sponsorship of the distinguished artist Grigoris Kouskouris (Spira Marble Art Gallery), who has crafted unique works of marble. 

The celebration will be hosted in the Great Hall, at the House of Events in Costa Navarino, with free entry for participants. Patrón, one of the leading super premium tequilas worldwide, creates a special cocktail experience, welcoming guests from Friday and continuing Saturday night with iconic cocktails like Patron Paloma & Patron Margarita. The experience will be elevated by the exquisite offerings of Navarino Icons, with the new series of handmade breadsticks with natural sourdough and Kalamata olives, inspired by the Messinian gastronomic tradition. In the athletic arenas, Navarino Icons will contribute to the athletes' energy with the famous traditional pasteli, made exclusively from honey, sesame, and orange, without added sugar.

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Become part of the experience and secure your place on the starting line for an unforgettable sports event in Messinia. REGISTER HERE!

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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. 

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.

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 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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