WELLNESS HUB
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Thursday, 19 November 2020 17:01
Astypalaia To Become A Smart And Sustainable Island
The Greek government and Volkswagen have signed a memorandum to transform the island of Astypalaia into a zero-carbon, climate-protecting community.
This monumental task aims to transform the lives of Astypalaia's 1,300 permanent residents while raising their awareness of climate change and environmental issues.
The first step is to replace all of the island's 1,500 vehicles with electric ones and to create all the necessary infrastructure. Furthermore, a smarter traffic system will be implemented and alternative means of transportation such as scooters and light commercial vehicles will also be introduced hence, reducing the size of the transport fleet on the island by a third.
This large scale model developed by Volkswagen will allow for other places around Europe to embrace the approach. By embracing the project, Greece will be able to reach its own climate goals and provide other countries with a blueprint of how to achieve them as well.
To read this article in full, please visit: themayor.eu
To read this article in full, please visit: themayor.eu
Published in
Local Environment
Tagged under
Monday, 28 March 2022 07:00
Greek Universities Eye English-Speaking Students
Greek universities plan to expand the number of programs offered in English, aiming to attract students from the Balkans, other Mediterranean countries, South Asia, and China, as well as interested Greek students.
More than 200 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs will be added, most in 2023-24 but some in the 2022-23 academic year.
Universities are seeking support from EU structural funds.
Likewise, UK universities aim to attract Greek students back, after seeing an exodus after Brexit, by offering joint programs with Greek institutions.
Originally published on: ekathimerini.com
More than 200 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs will be added, most in 2023-24 but some in the 2022-23 academic year.
Universities are seeking support from EU structural funds.
Likewise, UK universities aim to attract Greek students back, after seeing an exodus after Brexit, by offering joint programs with Greek institutions.
Originally published on: ekathimerini.com
Published in
Local News
Tagged under
Wednesday, 10 April 2024 23:36
Unforgettable Olympic Tales: Triumphs, Heroes & Resilience
The Olympic Games are not just about athletic prowess; they're also filled with remarkable stories, astonishing achievements, and unforgettable moments.
From groundbreaking milestones to incredible displays of resilience and determination, here are some of the most wow facts about the Olympic Games that will leave you in awe!
From groundbreaking milestones to incredible displays of resilience and determination, here are some of the most wow facts about the Olympic Games that will leave you in awe!
1. Kallipateira: The Trailblazing Woman
In ancient Greece, women were not allowed to compete or even attend the Olympic Games. However, one woman, Kallipateira, defied convention and made history. Disguising herself as a man, she entered the Olympic stadium to watch her son, Peisirrodos, compete in wrestling. When he won, she couldn't contain her joy and accidentally revealed her true identity. Rather than face punishment, Kallipateira was celebrated for her devotion and bravery, becoming the first woman to enter the Olympic Games.
2. Spyros Louis: The Marathon Marvel
In 1896, at the inaugural modern Olympic Games held in Athens, Greece, Spyros Louis captured the hearts of his nation and the admiration of trailing behind favored competitors from more established running nations. However, fueled by the cheers of his fellow Greeks lining the streets of Athens, Louis refused to succumb to the scorching heat and exhaustion. In a stunning turn of events, Louis surged ahead in the final leg of the race, overtaking his rivals and crossing the finish line at the Panathenaic Stadium to claim the gold medal. His unexpected triumph sparked jubilant celebrations throughout Greece, marking a symbolic victory for the host nation and forever etching his name into Olympic history.
3. Jesse Owens: Defying Adversity
At the 1936 Berlin Olympics, amidst the backdrop of Nazi Germany's propaganda of Aryan superiority, African-American athlete Jesse Owens delivered a stunning rebuke. Owens won four gold medals in track and field, disproving Hitler's ideology and cementing his place as one of the greatest athletes of all time. His triumphs transcended sports, sending a powerful message of courage, equality, and resilience in the face of adversity.
4. Abebe Bikila: Running Barefoot to Glory
In 1960, Ethiopian runner Abebe Bikila made history at the Rome Olympics by winning the marathon barefoot. Due to shoe discomfort, Bikila decided to run the race without shoes, a decision that astonished spectators and defied conventional wisdom. Not only did Bikila win the marathon, but he also set a new world record, becoming the first African to win Olympic gold and inspiring generations of athletes with his remarkable feat.
5. Derek Redmond: A Father's Love
In one of the most heartwarming moments in Olympic history, British sprinter Derek Redmond tore his hamstring during the 400-meter semifinal at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. Determined to finish the race, Redmond refused to quit, hobbling along the track in excruciating pain. Suddenly, his father, Jim Redmond, broke through security and rushed to his son's side, supporting him as they crossed the finish line together. Their emotional embrace epitomized the bond of love, sacrifice, and resilience, inspiring millions around the world.
6. The Greek Goddess: Voula Patoulidou's Historic Hurdle
In the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, Greek hurdler Voula Patoulidou etched her name into Olympic history with a stunning upset victory in the women's 100-meter hurdles. Against formidable competition, including reigning champion Gail Devers of the United States, Patoulidou surged ahead in the final meters to claim gold, becoming the first Greek woman to win an Olympic track and field title. Her triumph sparked jubilant celebrations across Greece, inspiring a new generation of athletes and solidifying her status as a national hero.
In the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, Greek hurdler Voula Patoulidou etched her name into Olympic history with a stunning upset victory in the women's 100-meter hurdles. Against formidable competition, including reigning champion Gail Devers of the United States, Patoulidou surged ahead in the final meters to claim gold, becoming the first Greek woman to win an Olympic track and field title. Her triumph sparked jubilant celebrations across Greece, inspiring a new generation of athletes and solidifying her status as a national hero.
7. Eric Moussambani's Courageous Swim
In the 2000 Sydney Olympics, Equatorial Guinean swimmer Eric Moussambani captured the hearts of spectators with his valiant effort in the men's 100-meter freestyle. Hailing from a country with limited resources and without access to proper training facilities, Moussambani had learned to swim in a hotel pool only eight months before the Games. Despite his lack of experience and preparation, Moussambani found himself competing on the world's biggest stage. In a race that became known as the "Eric the Eel" heat, Moussambani swam alone after his competitors were disqualified for false starts. Though he struggled to complete the distance, Moussambani's courage and perseverance endeared him to audiences worldwide, embodying the Olympic ideal of participation, sportsmanship, and the pursuit of personal excellence.
Published in
Greek Philosophy & History
Tagged under
Tuesday, 10 December 2024 12:28
The Athens Singers
The Athens Singers began in 1967 when a small group of music lovers met and sang together for the sheer pleasure of making music. Over the years, the name Athens Singers has became a byword for musical excellence and endeavour, attracting membership and audiences from both Greek and non-Greek communities.
While the direction is in English, the choir sings in a variety of languages and musical styles, ranging from Pre-Baroque to the twenty-first century. Recent performances of theirs include works by classical composers such as Schubert, Mozart, Cherubini and Bach as well as more modern composers such as Bob Chilcott, Martin Palmeri and Dan Forrest. New Members Welcome - especially tenors and basses.
Our Rehearsals currently take place at:
ACS American Community Schools
129 Agias Paraskevis, Kazantzaki St.
Chalandri 15234
A 5-minute walk from the Agia Paraskevi Metro station
Rehearsals are on Wednesday evenings
Non-profit
The Athens Singers is a non-profit organization. Any proceeds from tickets or sponsorship goes towards paying professional musicians for accompaniment, rehearsal space and music scores. Anyone who would like to sponsor us can have their name and logo printed on our programs and posters.
Contact Us
Published in
Charities & NGOs
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Friday, 29 August 2025 11:15
A Conversation With Valef Yachts’ Leading Lady Kathy Lefakinis
Nearly five decades ago, a chance encounter in Athens forever changed the course of her life. What began as a magical introduction to Greece—and to her future husband, Bill Lefakinis, founder of Valef Yachts—evolved into a lifelong journey of love, family, and leadership in the world of luxury yachting. In this interview, she shares her story of adapting to Greek life, the lessons learned from building a family legacy, and why Greece continues to shine as one of the world’s most treasured yachting destinations.
Q: How did you first come to Greece and meet your husband, Bill?
As fate would have it, an ex-boyfriend had just returned from Greece, where he had finalized plans to charter a yacht for his family. While there, he met Bill Lefakinis, the owner of Valef Yachts, and they quickly became friends. When I arrived in Greece, my friend insisted I meet Bill.
On the second day of my trip, after an island excursion, Bill picked us up in Athens and suggested a quick stop. That “stop” turned out to be the yacht my friend had selected, gleaming in Vouliagmeni Marina, crew in uniform, champagne and meze waiting. It was magical. Later that night, after dinner in Mikrolimano Port, Bill surprised me by asking me to marry him. I laughed, of course, how could I marry someone I’d just met? I told him I’d need to love him, meet his family and friends, and truly know him first. Still, I found him incredibly intriguing, and our story began from there.
Q: What was it like adjusting to life in Greece?
My three-week journey through the islands was transformative. I visited historical sites, museums, churches, and beaches; I savored traditional cuisine, swam in the crystal-clear Mediterranean, and let the culture and people wash over me. Greece became a part of me; I felt at peace and deeply grateful.
When I eventually settled there with Bill, the adjustment felt effortless. I embraced the slower pace—lunches on our balcony overlooking Marina Zeas, afternoon naps, evenings by the sea, and mornings shopping at bustling open-air markets full of fresh produce, seafood, and spices. Life was idyllic, but I wanted mental stimulation. Slowly, I began helping at Valef Yachts, listening in on meetings, taking small tasks, and immersing myself in the world of Greek yachting. That step grew into a lifelong career.
Q: Do you personally identify as Greek? How has the country influenced your life and leadership style?
While I wasn’t born Greek, living in Greece for decades—raising a family, building a business, and immersing myself in the culture—has made me feel deeply connected to the country. In many ways, I identify as Greek.
Greece has shaped my lifestyle and leadership, teaching me the value of relationships, resilience, and hospitality. Business here is personal, built on trust and connection, and that philosophy guides how I lead at Valef.
Living in Greece also instilled a sense of balance—slowing down, appreciating beauty, and being present—which keeps me grounded in both life and business.
Q: Over the years, Greece has changed a lot socially and economically. How do you feel it has evolved since Valef’s early days?
Since I first came to Greece nearly 47 years ago, the country has changed dramatically. Life used to move at a slower, more relaxed pace, with cherished traditions like midday siestas and long coffees with friends. There was a simplicity that felt rich and fulfilling.
Today, Greece is faster-paced and more globalized, with technology transforming work, communication, and business. While I appreciate these modern conveniences, I sometimes miss the personal rhythm of the past.
Yet the spirit of hospitality, the warmth of the people, and the deep cultural roots remain what continues to make Greece truly special.
Q: What does yachting mean to you personally, beyond the business side? What draws people to this lifestyle in your experience?
To me, yachting is a way of life. It offers the freedom to explore destinations in comfort and privacy, while immersing yourself in the natural beauty, culture, and rhythm of each place you visit.
What makes yachting truly special is the seamless blend of exploration and personalized hospitality. Clients get to discover new islands, hidden coves, and charming seaside towns, all without the hassle of packing and unpacking or changing hotels. Each day offers something new, yet everything is tailored to their pace and preferences.
Yachting creates a luxurious yet intimate way to travel. It brings people closer to the destination, to each other, and to a slower, more meaningful way of experiencing the world. I’d call it a transformative escape.
Q: Why do you think Greece has become one of the world’s top yachting destinations? What makes it so special compared to other places?
Greece offers a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and hospitality that makes it unlike any other yachting destination. With more than 7,000 islands and endless coastline, the cruising options range from cosmopolitan hubs to quiet, untouched coves.
The long sunny seasons, calm seas, and favorable winds create ideal conditions, but it’s the warmth and hospitality of the Greek people—along with the country’s rich history and culture—that make each journey truly special.
Today, Greece also boasts world-class yachts and modern marinas, ensuring top-tier service and infrastructure. Together, these elements—climate, geography, culture, and fleet—make Greece an unbeatable destination for luxury yachting.
Q: Are there any particular Greek islands or hidden gems that you love personally and would recommend to someone exploring the Greek islands by yacht?
Hydra holds a special place in my heart. I have countless fond memories from over the years, and I love that it has managed to preserve its traditional charm and character. With no cars on the island, just donkeys and walking paths, Hydra offers a peaceful, elegant atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time.
That said, we never take a one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to itineraries. One of the most rewarding aspects of yachting is the ability to tailor each journey to the specific needs and desires of the charter group. Whether it's a family with young children, a group of friends, or a couple seeking a romantic getaway, we design every route around their interests—be it vibrant, cosmopolitan islands with nightlife and shopping, or secluded, off-the-beaten-track destinations rich in nature, history, and local flavor.
The beauty of Greece is in its diversity, and yachting allows you to discover it in a way that’s entirely your own.
Q. Valef Yachts has hosted some of the most famous personalities and produced unique experiences for decades. Is there a particular moment or charter that stands out to you as especially memorable?
There have been countless special charters, but what resonates most is the genuine gratitude we receive from guests—whether it’s a world-famous actor or a family on their first yacht holiday. That heartfelt appreciation is always what stays with me.
Some gestures, though, stand out. I’ll never forget Robert (RJ) Wagner arriving at the dock with a case of hand-picked wines, carrying them aboard himself as a thank-you to Bill and me. Or the Sheik who returned after his cruise to gift me a necklace—and another for my unborn daughter at the time—a gesture that touched me deeply.
It’s these acts of kindness and connection that make this work so meaningful. Every charter tells a story, and we’re honored to be part of those journeys
Q: Running Valef Yachts today, what are some of the biggest challenges and opportunities you face in the luxury yachting industry, both locally and globally?
One of the biggest challenges we face today is over-tourism. Many Greek islands, once serene and authentic, are now crowded during peak season, affecting both the guest experience and local communities. At Valef, we address this by curating mindful itineraries, introducing lesser-known destinations, and creating opportunities for cultural immersion away from the crowds.
Another challenge is maintaining the high standards of service that define luxury yachting. As the industry expands, more small operators have entered the market, but not all uphold the level of quality and reliability we expect. At Valef, we carefully choose our partners, emphasizing trust, professionalism, and transparency to ensure every charter lives up to our standard.
At the same time, opportunities are abundant. Travelers increasingly seek authentic, private, and personalized experiences. Innovations in sustainability, technology, and onboard services also allow us to enhance guest journeys while operating more responsibly.
Our goal is to continue evolving while staying true to our legacy: offering unparalleled service, expert knowledge, and unforgettable voyages through Greece and beyond.
Q. As a woman leading a historic company in Greece, how do you perceive the landscape for women entrepreneurs and leaders in the Greek business world today? Has it changed since you started?
I’m proud to be one of the very few women who have been part of the yachting industry in Greece for over 45 years. When I first started, it was an overwhelmingly male-dominated field, especially in leadership roles.
Over the years, I’ve witnessed a slow but meaningful shift. Women have begun to carve out their space in the industry, becoming yacht brokers, managers, even captains, and gaining the recognition they deserve. While progress has been gradual, it’s certainly moving in the right direction.
What brings me the greatest pride today is seeing my two daughters at the helm of Valef Yachts' main office in Greece. It’s incredibly fulfilling to watch the next generation of women lead with confidence, professionalism, and grace. Their presence—and that of other talented women in the industry—is helping reshape the future of yachting and the broader business world in Greece.
Q: Your two daughters are involved in the business as well. How does it feel to have a multi-generational family legacy in yachting? What values do you hope to pass on to them?
It’s deeply fulfilling to see my two daughters carrying forward the legacy of Valef Yachts. What began as a business my husband and I built over four decades ago has grown into a multi-generational story rooted in passion, commitment, and a love for Greece and the sea.
The values I hope to pass on to them are integrity, respect, and genuine hospitality. My hope is that they always lead with kindness, uphold high standards, and never lose sight of the personal connection that makes our work so meaningful.
Watching them thrive, shaping the future while honoring the past, makes me incredibly proud. Valef Yachts is more than a business; it’s our family’s legacy.
Q: Balancing such a demanding role with personal life can be challenging. How do you maintain that balance, and what advice would you give to others striving for it?
Raising children while managing a business is never easy. But one of the advantages of running your own company is having the flexibility to shape your schedule. In the yachting world, the seasonality of the business means there are intense periods, especially in summer, but also quieter times that allow for more family focus.
What’s helped me most is having a strong family unit. During the busiest times, we work together, support one another, and stay grounded in what really matters. For me, family has always come first, and I believe that keeping those priorities clear is essential to maintaining balance.
My advice to others is this: set boundaries, honor them, and don’t be afraid to slow down when needed. A strong work ethic is important, but it should never come at the expense of your well-being or relationships. True success is being able to build a life you love, both professionally and personally.
Q: Other than yachting, do you have a personal vision for anything else professionally?
Beyond yachting, one of my deepest passions lies in preserving the ecology of the seas. Having spent much of my life surrounded by the beauty and serenity of the Mediterranean, I feel a strong responsibility to protect these waters for future generations.
Valef envision’s becoming more involved in marine conservation efforts, whether through partnerships, advocacy, or educational initiatives that promote sustainable practices within the yachting industry and beyond. The health of our oceans is directly tied to the success of our industry and the well-being of the planet.
Professionally, I see great opportunity in encouraging more eco-conscious choices within luxury travel. From reducing plastic use on board to supporting green technologies in yachting, we all have a role to play in protecting the marine environment.
Q: What’s the best way for someone to connect with you for a yachting experience?
While I always welcome a good old-fashioned phone call, we know that most people today prefer the convenience of email, text, or WhatsApp—and we’re happy to communicate however you feel most comfortable.
You can reach us at:
Valef Yachts Greece
📧 Contact@ValefYachts.com
📞 +30 210 418 2381
📱 +30 697 271 0026 (WhatsApp available)
📧 Contact@ValefYachts.com
📞 +30 210 418 2381
📱 +30 697 271 0026 (WhatsApp available)
Published in
Local Voices
Tagged under
Wednesday, 18 February 2015 12:47
Areopolis
The town is of great historic importance to Greece as it was here that the war for independence against 350 years of Turkish occupation began. On 17th March 1821, a banner was raised and allegiance sworn under the motto “Victory or Death” by the various Maniat clan leaders assembled. They then marched to Kardamyli and on to Kalamata. The seven-year struggle had begun. In recognition of this role, the town was renamed Areopolis after Ares, the god of war, in 1836.
Previously it had been known by its Slavic name, Tsimova.
In the last decade Areopolis has seen something of a boom. The central square, dominated by a statue of Petrobey Mavromichalis, has been repaved, a new police station and town hall built, a number of new bars and cafes have opened along with hotels to accommodate visitors and on the outskirts of the town are a number of recently built, huge stone shops and supply yards. However it has by no means lost its quality of an atmospheric gateway into Mesa Mani and no tour of Mani is complete without stopping here. At the very least it warrants a coffee stop or lunch. The main square is the centre of life in the town and is a great place to ‘people watch’.
There is a market every Saturday, mainly selling fruit and vegetables, turning the square into a hive of activity. However, Areopolis deserves a little more time. Its narrow alleys and cobbled streets are a photographer’s dream and, being a historic town, there are a number of places worth visiting. There is a great bookshop on the square, next to the cake shop. Its owner, Georgios, is a real Mani enthusiast and has a good stock of maps, books and recently a DVD as well as his own Mani magazine (in Greek). A Byzantine museum is located in the restored tower next to the church of Ioannis O Prodromos. It promises to ensure that local treasures housed in locked churches will now be on permanent display beyond the grasp of unscrupulous thieves.
By following the map out of Areopolis on the road to Omales, it is possible to walk down to the pebbly beach of Pyrgos and then on the caves of Pyrgos Dirou. Once you come to the T-junction marked on the map of Areopolis, simply turn left and follow the road all the way down to the beach. The concrete gives way to a dirt road and as you near the sea, it swings right. To get to the beach you have to hop over the wall by the house and walk down some steps to get on to the rocks. You will see steps ahead of you on the other side of a very small beach that bring you out onto the tarmac road to the beach. It should take just over an hour to here from town. There is no café on the beach so you will need to take plenty of water. It is also possible to cut across the small headland at the far end of the beach to get to the caves of Pyrgos Dirou. An earth path runs around the back of the concrete hut – simply follow it for 5 minutes to get to the caves. The ticket office is 100m up the road.
Source: Insidemani.gr
Published in
Travel Greece
Tagged under
Thursday, 19 February 2015 14:05
Icy Weather All Over Greece
Snow has interrupted traffic on the Kastoria-Florina and Florina-Kastoria provincial road network via Vitsi, while motorists on the Arnissa-Vorra Pellas sky resort are advised to use snow chains.
Snow is falling on the mountains in northern Greece and in Thessaly, in the central part of the country, with temperatures around 0 degrees Celsius.
According to forecasts, the bad weather will continue until Tuesday with heavy snowfall and low temperatures in the eastern and northern parts of the country, especially at higher altitudes.
Snow is expected in the Attica region as well, with the surrounding mountains Pendeli, Parnitha and Immitos already turning white.
To read more, please visit thetoc.gr/eng
Published in
Local News
Tagged under
Monday, 05 October 2015 07:33
Greek Spinach & Feta Quesadillas By The Greek Glutton
Here, Ekaterina via The Greek Glutton shares her love of Greek food, with a bit of Mexican in the mix.
I am a HUGE fan of feta. I simply cannot have a meal without it. Add a touch of spinach into the mix and you will have me eating out of your hand, or plate. So you can guess how much I salivated after seeing my friend Natalia's recipe for Greek Spinach & Feta Quesadillas over at her blog The Greek Glutton. The recipe just had to be shared.
Speaking of healither meal alternatives, I made these Greek Spinach & Feta Quesadillas with Tzatziki Sauce and I have to say, they're a much better choice than regular quesadillas with melted cheese and sour cream and other fatty/not so healthy ingredients. And even though they might not be quite as mouth-watering and indugent as regular quesadillas, they still feel like a treat! Almost like having your cake and eating it, although not literally.
They're easy to make and they make it easy to get vegetables into your diet. Spinach has many health benefits: for your eyes, bones and actually helps your digestion. What's more is that cooked spinach actually delivers more than three times the nutrients of raw soinach because your body cannot fully break down and absorb nutrients in raw spinach. If you live in a cold and dry climate, eating spinach is really good for relieving dry and itchy skin.
As if you didn't need any more pursuading, take a look at how to make them:
Prep time - 15 mins
Cook time - 15 mins
Total: 30 mins
Recipe Type: Lunch
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 2-3 quesadillas
Ingredients
12oz spinach
Olive Oil
1 onion
Bunch of scallions/green onions
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1/2 to 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
Salt and Pepper to taste
Low-carb or regular flour tortillas
Tzatziki sauce
To read more, including directions on how to make, please visit: Ekaterina's Greek Expectations
Published in
Greek Food & Diet
Tagged under
Thursday, 26 November 2015 07:00
Top 5 Things To Do In Greece In Winter
The mention of Greece brings up images of white arcing beaches and sparkling aqua waters under sun-drenched skies. But the secret in plain sight is that this nation blessed with more than 6000 islands actually offers some of its best features outside the tourist-crazed summer season. Greece in winter is a land of glorious walks with open vistas, uncluttered ancient sites and bustling city life. Bust your stereotypes and see the country as the locals do.
Booming Athens and sleepy Peloponnese
Athens’ cafe culture and zippy late-hours, hard-partying nightlife is at its best in winter when locals are in town, not out on the islands. Athenians love a good, long, ouzo-soaked lunch or a multi-hour chat over coffee as much as they do all-night bar crawls and glittery bouzoukia nightclubs. By day, the visitor can take in a much less impeded Acropolis and other ancient sites, as well as uncrowded world-class museums, such as the National Archaeological Museum, the Byzantine & Christian Museum and the Benaki Museum.
Just a stone’s throw from Athens, the Peloponnese offers some of Greece’s most accessible, beautiful country lanes lined by stone walls and olive groves, and ancient sites spanning eons. Make a base in Nafplio, the charming seaside Venetian city topped by a fortress. Its tiny streets are lined with creative craft shops and boutique hotels, while Fougaro cultural centre hosts a winter program of arts and musical events.
Just a stone’s throw from Athens, the Peloponnese offers some of Greece’s most accessible, beautiful country lanes lined by stone walls and olive groves, and ancient sites spanning eons. Make a base in Nafplio, the charming seaside Venetian city topped by a fortress. Its tiny streets are lined with creative craft shops and boutique hotels, while Fougaro cultural centre hosts a winter program of arts and musical events.
Island hopping – yes, they are open!
Let the cascade of tourists abate, and winter-time island life becomes something quite special. Convivial locals make for interesting, friendly visits. Moody skyscapes and changing light conditions make walking a wonderful, dramatic pastime. Larger islands remain the most vibrant, with their substantial local populations.Corfu boasts a fine old town and rich cultural life, from orchestras to art shows and its Palace of St Michael & St George. Crete sprawls from quaint, eye-dazzling harbour towns of Hania and Rethymno to its myriad mountain villages. Lesvos (Mytilini) offers ouzeries and 11 million olive trees (October and November are the olive harvest season; drop in at a local press to see it in action). Each of those large islands has some of the best regional cuisine in the country, with fresh local produce and creative recipes.To read more, please visit: Lonely Planet
Published in
Travel Greece
Tagged under
Tuesday, 07 June 2016 11:18
Greece Hoists Blue Flags At 430 Beaches Countrywide
Run by an independent non-profit organization, Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), the Blue Flag Program labels beaches and marinas — and for the first time this year sustainable boating tourism operators — appropriate for swimming based on cleanliness, water quality, organization, safety and services, environmental management, and protection and certifies the best every year ahead of summer.
This year, 3,462 beaches and 660 marinas in 50 countries were inspected. With 430 beaches and nine marinas, Greece clinched third spot during the 1st International “Blue Flags” Awards ceremony held in the Halkidiki peninsula at the Porto Carras Grand Resort. The Halkidiki peninsula was crowned the destination with most flags in Greece as 52 of its beaches were honored.
Greece also recently came in 4th in Europe with the European Environment Agency verifying that 97.2 percent of its beaches are of the highest quality for swimming.
To read this article in full, please visit: Greek Travel Pages
For an interactive map of all the beaches and to learn more about the Blue Flag, please visit: Blue Flag
For an interactive map of all the beaches and to learn more about the Blue Flag, please visit: Blue Flag
Published in
Greece In The News
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