One of the most prestigious international beach volleyball competitions in the world, Nations Cup, is coming for the first time to TUI Magic Life Candia Maris of Metaxa Hospitality Group, in Crete, on May 16-18, 2025.

The top sporting event is held under the auspices of the European Volleyball Confederation (CEV) and the corresponding Hellenic Volleyball Federation with the co-organization of the Region of Crete, the Municipality of Malevizi, and Metaxa Hospitality Group, in order to promote Crete as a global sporting and tourist destination.

Nations Cup particularly promotes team spirit, as athletes do not compete as individual pairs, as is usually the case in traditional tournaments, but represent their national teams. Each country participates with two pairs, which compete in an innovative system of competition where collective effort and strategy determine the winner.

This year, athletes from six countries will participate in the top sporting event that promotes the development of the sport. In the men's category, the national teams of the Netherlands, Hungary, Luxembourg, and Greece will compete, while in the women's category, the teams of Poland, Estonia, and Greece will be represented. The event enhances competitiveness at a global level and showcases the talent of athletes who transcend borders, bringing the public closer to powerful sporting moments.

The 5-star hotel of the Metaxa Hospitality Group, TUI Magic Life Candia Maris, which will host the Nations Cup next month, has state-of-the-art facilities and infrastructure of international standards, while it is located in an excellent seaside location in the area of Amoudara, just 5 kilometres from the centre of Heraklion.

By co-organizing and hosting the Nations Cup, Metaxa Hospitality Group, which this year completes 50 years of uninterrupted operation, confirms its commitment to promoting major sporting events of international importance and contributes to the promotion of Crete as a high-level destination for athletes and visitors from all over the world.

It is indicative that the leading Greek hotel group has undertaken this year the organization of two more major world volleyball tournaments that will be held for the first time in Crete. This is an international event that promises to bring world-renowned athletes to Greece and the Marathon, which will be one of the most exciting events of the year. Both tournaments will be hosted in November 2025 at Metaxa Hospitality Group's TUI Magic Life Candia Maris, offering excellent opportunities for sport and tourism in one of the most beautiful coastal areas of Northern Crete. 

The Nations Cup in Crete is expected to have significant benefits for both the local community and the country as a whole. 

The arrival of athletes, coaches, and fans from all over the world will boost tourism, extending the duration of the tourist season on the island. At the same time, the tournament will create increased demand in sectors such as hospitality, catering, and transportation, providing a boost to local entrepreneurship.

On a national level, hosting such an important event will highlight Greece as a center of international sports tourism, enhancing the country's image as a destination of high standards and encouraging the organization of more international sports events in the future.

The Regional Governor of Crete, Mr. Stavros Arnaoutakis said: “It is with great pleasure that the Region of Crete supports the organization of the European Beach Volley Nations Cup 2025, a great sporting event that enriches the calendar of international events that have been hosted on our island in recent years. We warmly congratulate Metaxa Hospitality Group for undertaking this important event and the Hellenic Volleyball Federation for their cooperation in the preparation of the tournament. The Beach Volley Nations Cup promotes Crete as a top sports tourism destination and enhances the international image of our island”.

The Mayor of Malevizi, Mr. Menelaos Bokeas said: “It is with great pleasure and honor that we participate as co-organizers of the "Beach Volleyball Nations Cup", which will be held on May 16-18, 2025, at the facilities of the hotel "TUI Magic Life Candia Maris" in Amoudara Gazi, Municipality of Malevizi. We support such innovative, visionary initiatives that enhance the tourism product of our region and make it a destination for the global sports community. Many congratulations are due to the organization of "Metaxa Hospitality Group" and its people for this truly great initiative. This first international volleyball tournament organized in our region is a forerunner for the brilliant events that will follow, and to which we will lend our support. The prospects are very encouraging, not only for our region but also for the whole of Crete. Sport unites. It expresses and creates communities of people inspired by higher ideals and values. And when experiential tourism, and especially sports tourism, brings together people from different countries and cultures, and all this effort is passed on to the everyday life of our country and its people, something great is born, something beautiful and unique comes to be established and developed. With this event, with all the synergies it requires, with all the interactions it causes, with all the creativity it generates, we all make our mark as participants and sign the future. Success is more than certain”.

The President of the Hellenic Volleyball Federation, Mr. George Karampetsos stressed: “In the first post-Olympic season after the Olympic Games in Paris, Greece is once again entering the beach volleyball scene with dozens of domestic and international high-level competitions in accordance with the high standards of the world federation. The 2025 calendar starts from Heraklion, Crete, which in recent years has played a leading role in the top sand events. The Nations Cup, which is the first event for our national teams that will enter the qualification process for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, is the ideal start for the events we have planned as a Federation for the 2025 season. As always, the Region of Crete is a valuable ally, and I would like to thank the Regional Governor of Crete, Mr. Stavros Arnaoutakis for his valuable contribution, Metaxa Hospitality Group for its support, and all the supporters and stakeholders involved in this event. I wish to extend my best wishes for organizational growth and competitive excellence, especially to the national teams, and I am sure that they will manage to excel, representing our country in the international beach volleyball scene".

The CEO of Metaxa Hospitality Group, Mr. Andreas Metaxas stated: “In a landmark year, as Metaxa Hospitality Group completes half a century of existence in 2025, we are particularly proud to co-organize such an important sporting event, the Nations Cup, which is coming back to Crete this year. By hosting three international tournaments on the island in less than six months, Crete is emerging as a top sports tourism destination, attracting athletes and spectators from all over the world. The holding of these events confirms our commitment to the development of sport and the strengthening of the local society and economy, placing Crete at the heart of the international sporting map”.

The return of a beach volleyball world championship to Greece would not have been possible without the contribution of Technical Director Vangelis Polimeropoulos through the Best Sports Marketing and Events company in Greece, ActiveMedia Group.

Metaxa Hospitality Group is a leading Greek group of authentic hospitality services that celebrates 50 years of uninterrupted operation this year.  Recognized as the "Best Hospitality Group in Greece" by the World Travel Awards 2021 - 2024, it operates luxury resorts and 5-star hotels with more than 1,100 beds in Crete (Creta Maris Resort, TUI Magic Life Candia Maris) and Santorini (Santo Collection Resorts & Villas). It was founded in Crete in 1975 by the late Nikolaos Metaxas. His legacy is carried on by his family, led by Mr. Andreas Metaxas, who has guided the Group into a new era of dynamic growth. The Group, recognized with dozens of international awards and certifications, operates according to the principles of Sustainable Development, where employees, the local community and visitors are at the heart of its activities. https://www.metaxahospitality.gr

Jerome Kaluta, this unique guy who has given us great musical moments and a lot of laughter, together with 7 musicians they are coming for an unforgettable musical experience on Wednesday, April 30, at the historic Kyttaro Live Stage!

An evening full of rhythm, energy and groove, where the disco-funk of the decades embraces the ukulele and Jerome's original pieces, in a unique party! Through the sound of Brass and Percussion we will hear from the viral "Kalavryta" and "Vouno" to songs from the 80's 90's RNB-DISCO, James Brown, Ray Charles, Salt n Pepa and many more legendary artists with all time classic hits, always with the inexhaustible energy that Jerome brings to the stage!

With Super Hero Guests Idra Kayne and Spyros Grammenos!

Jerome is accompanied by:

Nikos Anastasiadis - Drums
Odysseas Apostolopoulos - Keyboards/Vocals
Jenny Hatzopoulou - Vocals/Keyboards
Michalis Karagiannis - Guitar
Georgos Kalogeropoulos - Bass
Stelios Michas-Englezos - Trombone
Carlos Menendez - Congas/Percussion
Yiannis Papaioannou - Sound Engineer (FOH)
Victoria Papadopoulou - Production Management / Afrogreco Entertainment
Photography - Antonis Byrizas
Artwork: Eliza Zarifi
Video trailer: Antonis Byrizasy
Contact: Tzina Fountoulaki - Alexandros Karamalikis

Tickets: Presale: 12 euros / General Admission Box Office: 15 euros

Note: The ticket is for entry to the venue (bar) only. For seating reservations, call: 2108224134 / 6977641373

The Maria Callas Museum is expanding its mission beyond its walls, reaching young patients at the “Agia Sofia” Children’s Hospital with a unique and inspiring educational program titled "The Power of My Voice – A Musical Journey with the Maria Callas Museum."

True to its educational and social mission, the Museum is stepping into new territory, offering hospitalized children a chance to explore creativity, self-expression, and communication through the universal language of music.

This original music-education program is specially designed for children staying at the hospital. It includes musical improvisation, theatrical play, and visual arts activities, all aimed at encouraging self-discovery and emotional expression. Each child even gets the chance to create their own musical composition, which is recorded and gifted to them – a personal keepsake from a moment of inspiration.

What makes this initiative even more special is that authentic items from the museum’s collection – such as photographs, annotated scores donated by the Hellenic Maria Callas Association, and Maria Callas’ own leather gloves, a gift from Konstantinos and Viktoria Pylarinou – are brought directly into the hospital space. Children are given the rare opportunity to see these cultural treasures up close, forging a personal connection with the legacy of one of the world’s greatest opera icons.

In this way, the performing arts become not just accessible, but deeply meaningful and experiential.

This touching initiative is the result of close collaboration between the Maria Callas Museum’s experienced team and composer/music educator Markella Skourti, founder of AMKE “The Path of Music.”

The project was warmly embraced by the hospital’s administrative board and the Head of the Nursing Services Department, Ms. Efrosyni Vlachioti, making it possible to bring this program to life in a nurturing and supportive environment.

Two workshops have already taken place, receiving overwhelmingly positive feedback and proving just how impactful exposure to the arts can be in boosting emotional resilience and sparking joy in children’s lives.

This initiative is part of the Maria Callas Museum’s broader outreach strategy, which continuously invests in sharing its cultural identity through innovative methods. By bringing music, art, and legacy to communities that need it most, the Museum redefines what it means to be a truly public cultural institution.

Your favorite neighborhood café just got greener, bolder, and a whole lot more creative.

This spring, This is Loco in Koukaki is turning weekends into a blooming celebration of plants, art, and good vibes with a series of curated pop-ups that bring together local talent and a love for all things beautiful. Here's what’s coming up:

Date: Saturday, April 12
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Host: Konstantinos Douvlis - @sanopwleio

On Saturday, April 12 Koukaki gets a tropical twist! Sanopwleio brings a curated jungle of over 200 handpicked indoor plants and 100 pots, perfect for brightening up your home. Whether you're a seasoned plant lover or just want to soak in some green energy over coffee, this is your kind of Saturday. Come for the plants, stay for the vibes — and don’t forget to say hi to Konstantinos!

 

Date: Saturday, April 26
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Host: Jenny - @oh.my.yard

Get ready for a floral takeover! Oh My Yard is teaming up with This is Loco to bring you a dreamy mix of lush greenery, vibrant blooms, and garden-inspired vibes. Perfect for spring refreshes or finding that unique plant to complete your shelf.

Dates: Friday, May 16 & Saturday, May 17
Time: All day
 @dedenia

Coming in May, artist Denia Panagaki will transform the space with her signature hand-painted creations. From beach bags to T-shirts, mugs to mini artworks, every piece is one of a kind. Theme to be announced — but trust us, you’ll want to mark your calendar.


 @dedenia

This is Loco is the spot to be this spring. Come hang, browse, sip your favorite drink, and connect with local creatives turning weekends into little celebrations of nature and expression.

☕🌸 See you there!

Main Image Credit: @oh.my.yard 

THEATRE OF THE NO, Athens' first English-speaking theatre, proudly presents internationally acclaimed saxophonist, composer, and researcher Dimitris Vassilakis with the Dimitris Vassilakis Quartet.

On Saturday 12th , April at 22:30,  an unforgettable night of blues and ballads, featuring selections from his award-winning Candid Records discography, beloved jazz standards, and fresh material from his newly remastered release, «Labyrinth  Daedalus Project». This unique performance blends jazz improvisation, poetry, and storytelling, creating a captivating dialogue between music and spoken word.

Opening:  Friday, 11 April 2025,18:00
Duration:  11 -13 April 2025 / Hours:  Saturday and Sunday 16:00-20:00

FokiaNou Art Space is pleased to present a three-day group exhibition featuring seven artists from Germany, curated by artist/gallerist Christian Schmid, who runs ShowroomSchmitt, an independent art space in Karlsruhe, Germany. The exhibition is part of a cultural exchange between the two independent spaces, offering the opportunity to showcase German artists in Athens, as well as to promote Greek artists in Germany, fostering dialogue between the visual art scenes of the two cities. In early May, artists from FokiaNou will exhibit their works in Karlsruhe, contributing to a creative bridge between Greece and Germany.

The artists were part of the exhibition "Locals only" that took place in February 2025 at ShowroomSchmitt, an alternative art show to the "Art Karlsruhe", an annual commercial art fair. Today, they enthusiastically reunite in Athens, co-exhibiting at FokiaNou Art Space. From this connection comes the exhibition’s title: "Karlsruhe-Athen. Auf Wiedersehen." 

Colorful facets of individual life worlds can be discovered under the sun of the south, through a variety of works from modest materials: the grimacing portrayal of the leader of the free world or a delicately painted pool and an immersive cinema experience. Some pieces delve into conspiracy theories, others address monetary realities, but they are reflections on the artists’ experience.

FoKiaNou Art Space is an artist-run project space in the intimacy of a small apartment in an old building in the center of Athens.  The apartment has been transformed into an open space that encourages collaborative creative efforts between Greek and foreign artists, thereby promoting and supporting the local art community.  The space hosts exhibitions, workshops and projects under the direction of two artists, Mary Cox and Panagiotis Voulgaris. 

Losing a beloved pet is one of the hardest things any pet owner can face. Our furry companions are more than just animals—they are family, offering unconditional love, loyalty, and joy throughout their lives. While their time with us may be limited, their impact is everlasting. That’s why initiatives like Cats & Dogs Animal Cemetery in Koropi, Attica are so important. They provide not just a resting place for pets but also a way to celebrate their lives and cherish their memories forever.

Cats & Dogs Animal Cemetery offers individual and mass burials, cremation services, and even personalized memorial options like engraved markers and memorial jewelry. These thoughtful services allow owners to honor their pets in a way that brings peace and comfort, ensuring that their bond is never forgotten.

The cemetery itself is a serene and well-maintained sanctuary, providing a dedicated space where owners can visit, remember, and reflect on the happy moments they shared with their pets. Knowing that their beloved companions are laid to rest with dignity and love can bring a sense of closure during a difficult time.

While the thought of losing a pet is heartbreaking, the existence of such cemeteries reflects a growing shift in how we, as a society, value and respect our animal companions. Initiatives like this offer hope and healing, showing that our love for pets extends beyond their lifetime. More cities in Greece are now embracing similar ideas, ensuring that pet owners everywhere can say their final goodbyes in a meaningful way.

At its core, the Cats & Dogs Animal Cemetery is not just about loss—it’s about love. It’s about celebrating the joy our pets brought us, the lessons they taught us, and the unbreakable bonds we shared. While saying goodbye is never easy, having a beautiful and respectful way to do so makes all the difference.

And in the end, isn’t that what our pets would want? For us to remember them with love, gratitude, and a heart full of happy memories? Thanks to initiatives like this, we can do just that.

 

Have you ever wondered how something as simple as breathing could dramatically enhance your well-being?

✨ Did you know...

• Your breath can instantly shift your mood, bringing calmness and clarity?

• Just a few minutes of focused breathing can significantly lower stress and anxiety levels?

• Breathwork strengthens your immune system, improves sleep quality, and increases your energy?

• Conscious breathing is a powerful gateway to emotional healing, deeper self-awareness, and spiritual growth?

To celebrate International World Breathing Day (April 11th), Evangelia Barbopoulou from Wellnest Athens, offers a series of free breathwork events designed to help you tap into the transformative power of your breath.

Join in for short Breathing Techniques sessions (Monday & Wednesday) or dive deeper with Breathwork Journeys (Tuesday, Thursday & Friday) — available online or in person at Wellnest Athens.

📍 Monday, April 7 | Online
🕘 09:00-09:30 Athens
Morning Glory: Energize & Ground Yourself
Register Here

📍 Tuesday, April 8 | Wellnest Athens
🕚 11:00-13:00
Breathwork Journey Inwards
Register Here

📍 Wednesday, April 9 | Wellnest Athens
🕢 19:30-20:15
Breathe into Zen: Unwind & Relax
Register Here

📍 Thursday, April 10 | Online
🕗 20:00-21:15 Athens
Breathwork Journey Inwards
Register Here

📍 Friday, April 11 | Wellnest Athens
🕖 19:00-21:00
World Breathing Day Celebration Breathwork Journey
Register Here

✨ Limited in-person spots available – book soon!

Come breathe and experience the profound transformation that breathwork can bring into your life.

Until then—breathe consciously, breathe fully, breathe with ease! 💙✨

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April at Technopolis Athens is brimming with creativity, innovation, and cultural experiences! From digital arts and entrepreneurship to music, markets, and family-friendly activities, there's something for everyone. Explore the vibrant events happening this month!

Greece’s largest international platform for digital arts celebrates 21 years of creativity and innovation in contemporary art. The festival, themed Simulacra, showcases Video Art, Animation, Installations, A/V Performances, Music, AR/VR/XR, as well as workshops and events for children. With over 3,000 artistic submissions from 102 countries, this unique festival offers an immersive experience in digital culture, continuing to promote creativity and innovation.

A special digital art experience awaits young visitors, featuring interactive installations, animations from around the world, and VR games. For the first time, children will experience an immersive full-dome screening! The Simulacra theme explores simulation at the intersection of art and technology, with a focus on environmental awareness. Kids will engage in digital art workshops, VR experiences, and interactive installations, as well as watch award-winning children’s animation films.

At the BRAINSHOT Workshops in INNOVATHENS, participants will delve into the world of upcycling and creative reuse. They will explore the art of silk-screen printing and design unique handmade pillows using their own fabric prints. A creative journey from design to the final product!

Organized by the Athens Municipality’s Education Directorate in collaboration with Career Gate, this seminar provides insights into the education system, university admissions, future careers, and modern work trends. Students will participate in educational activities and meetings with university representatives, gaining valuable career guidance.

ThinkBiz, Greece’s largest student entrepreneurship organization, bridges the gap between academia and business. The ThinkBiz Academy 2025, in its 9th year, offers a unique experience with inspiring talks, hands-on workshops, and interactive happenings. Experts will share insights to help attendees shape their careers, while the specially designed Career Agora presents networking and growth opportunities.

The city’s biggest vinyl event returns with a fresh spring vibe and an Easter atmosphere! Discover new record collections, rare collectibles, fresh releases, and various music exhibits. From Rock and Soul to Jazz, Funk, Hip Hop, and Electronica, music lovers can explore vinyl treasures from every genre. Renowned DJs and our Vinyl Market team will provide the perfect soundtrack throughout the event.

A nomadic market filled with innovation and creativity! Find unique clothing, jewelry, accessories, wellness products, art, home decor, vintage collectibles, street food, and delicious Easter treats from Greek producers. Over 150 makers showcase their creations, while DJ sets and interactive games bring positive vibes, celebrating local entrepreneurship.

Children aged 3 to 11 are invited to a special three-day Easter celebration filled with imaginative family-friendly activities. Enjoy outdoor workshops, artistic crafts, fun missions, and Easter-themed surprises. Little explorers will also journey through the history of Athens’ old gas factory in a playful and engaging way!

Dinner in the Sky Athens returns, taking fine dining to new heights! Enjoy breathtaking views of the Acropolis and an unforgettable experience above the city. With a refreshed menu and even more enthusiasm, this sky-high adventure promises magical sunset and nighttime flights over the illuminated urban landscape.

A Youth Fair designed to support young professionals, students, and graduates in their pursuit of career, education, and personal development opportunities. The event connects academic skills, volunteer experiences, and mobility programs with the job market and future academic advancements. A must-attend event for networking, knowledge exchange, and career exploration.

A one-of-a-kind hair show set to become a reference point for industry professionals. This exclusive one-day event features expert workshops, spectacular shows, and plenty of entertainment for professional hairstylists.

The Industrial Gas Museum and Anemomyloi Theatre Group invite you on a unique theatrical walking tour through Gazochori. Experience the past through historical events and captivating stories that shaped this vibrant neighborhood. Three theatrical guides will take participants through key locations, unveiling the secrets of the old Gas Factory and other historic sites, blending art and history into an unforgettable experience.

Discover unique gifts at the Technopolis Gift Shop, featuring items from Greek designers, museum editions, and books on industrial heritage, architecture, design, art, and philosophy.

📞 Contact: 210 3460981
📧 Email: shop@athens-technopolis.gr
🕒 Hours: Wednesday, Thursday, Friday & Sunday | 10:00-18:00

Make the most of your free time at Technopolis! Enjoy the renovated and safe playground, the outdoor Gym Park, the ultra-modern Skywalk for interactive fun for all ages, and the iconic Observatory, offering a 360° panoramic viewof Athens. Don’t forget to relax with a coffee, drink, or meal in the industrial-chic ambiance of Technopolis Café.

April is packed with extraordinary events—come and be part of the experience!

Shout, Shout, Vent it all OUT!

Are you a mom that needs a good release session!? We are too!!

No matter your age or stage or number of kids, this vent has been mindfully designed for all moms who seek a safe, loving, positive, and supportive space to LET IT ALL OUT.

Join us from 11-2pm on Saturday April 5th at Wellnest Athens in Alimos for a truly unforgettable journey packed with precious self discoveries, growth and personal integration. Together we will discover and identify hidden emotions that have been weighing on us >>> and release them with love, support and grace.



Consider this a gift of release and renewal from fellow moms. We want you to be able to express your heart’s truth, receive the restoration, vitalization, self-acceptance and self-approval that you have been seeking and so absolutely deserve. 

Hosted by mom of two Elena at Innerbloom and facilitated by mom of two Valia at Radiant Hearts, we can't wait to welcome you to the first Mom-Vent in Athens! ❤️ 🙌

What To Expect:
> Self-awareness exercises via a guided visualisation, including journaling and soulful conversation. 
> Discover the identity of your emotions; accept & integrate them into alignment with your mind, body and being. 
> Learn simple yet life changing self-care practices and wisdom tools.
> Connect with your innate wisdom and grow from your unique source.
> Tap into the energy and gift of wholesome connection with fellow moms.
> Enhance your most precious role as Mom!

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> Online Payment: By credit or debit card using our secure digital payments option via VIVA Wallet here.

 

> Bank Transfer: Alpha Bank: GR4701402920292002002014139 - Account Name: Eleni Tzavara (ΕΛΕΝΗ ΤΖΑΒΑΡΑ).

 

> Email us for additional information: innerbloomgreece@gmail.com.

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