Despite uncertainty in the outbound holiday market in Europe and the ongoing publicity of the refugee crisis, Athens has not lost ground as a leisure tourism and city break destination, according to the Athens Convention & Visitors Bureau (ACVB).

“It’s business as usual for Athens at ITB”, the convention bureau’s press officer, George Angelis, told the Greek Travel Pages (GTP) on the sidelines of the trade show in Berlin. “We have not seen or heard anything that should cause some concern. On the contrary, we see that there is currently a healthy demand for Athens, particularly in for city break and leisure tourism”, he said.

The Greek capital was represented once again at ITB (the world's leading travel trade show) which took place in Berlin from March 9-13, 2016.

To read more please visit: GreekTravelPages

In recent news, swimmers have been urged to be cautious this summer when choosing a beach for a swim due to highly polluted waters found at 4 of the Attica region beaches.

According to a report conducted by the Greek National Center for Ecological Research (PAKOE), 4 of the 17 popular beaches in Attica were found to have water with high pollution levels and were listed as ‘unfit for swimmers due to unsafe bacteria levels in accordance with the EU stipulations.’

Kavouri

Megalo Kavouri

Aghios Nikolaos in Lagonisi

Main beach in Saronida

Source: Greek Reporter

By launching flights to Voronezh, the global carrier reaffirms its ongoing expansion strategy to provide travelers with the greatest number of travel destination options. With existing services to Moscow, St.Petersburg, Sochi, Rostov, Kazan, Ekaterinburg, Ufa, and Stavropol, Turkish Airlines has now added Voronezh to its expanding Russian network.

Due to the carrier’ capacity increase strategy on its Russia flights, roundtrip services between Istanbul and Voronezh will be operated as 3 times per week, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

Flight TK 481 departs IST Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday at 01:05 and arrives VOZ 03:45.

Flight TK 482 departs VOZ Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday at 04:40 and arrives IST 07:40.

About Turkish Airlines 

Established in 1933 with a fleet of five aircraft, Star Alliance member Turkish Airlines is a 4-star airline today with a fleet of 337 (passenger and cargo) aircraft flying to 298 destinations worldwide with 249 international and 49 domestic. For more information on Turkish Airlines, please visit Turkish Airlines’ official website.

 

Photo Credit: Turkish Airlines

While surrounded by jewelry designers, archaeologists, entrepreneurs, and historians at the Knossos Palace, Prince Charles was learning about the impact of ancient Minoan civilization on contemporary style.

As Vogue states, "Chiton dress styles, decorative motifs, superfoods and fabric weaves that date back over 3,618 years are part of an ongoing aesthetic dialogue between the Minoan ancients and contemporary designers including Sophia Kokosalaki, Zeus and Dione, Ancient Greek Sandals and fine jewellers, Zolotas and Paulina Ellis."

"There is a strong link between fashion and the Minoans (the civilisation flourished between 3000 and 1200 B.C.) – physical prowess and glamour are entrenched. Back in the 1920s, Mario Fortuny even created a special label marked Knossos for a collection of his densely pleated draped dresses. The surrealists were seduced and published Minotaure magazine in the 1930s. In the 1970s, Cretan designer Yannis Tseklenis became the toast of cocktail society in New York and Paris with his psychedelic image dresses that reprised the fine frescoes and patterned artifacts found in the region. More recently, Chloe and Mary Katrantzou's spring/summer 2017 collections incorporated motifs from the famous Knossos palace fresco "Ladies in Blue" featuring opulent beauties with bejewelled corkscrew curls."

To read this article in full, please visit: Vogue

 

Photo source: Wikipedia

Kathara Deftera (Clean Monday) is one of the most favored holidays in Greece. Not only because of the delicious lenten food, but also because it marks the beginning of spring and is a great opportunity to enjoy nature and spend time outdoors.

 

One of the most significant Kathara Deftera traditions is kite flying; families and friends head to the city’s parks, hills, and open spaces to fly their kite. Weather permitting, because a little breeze is imperative to get the kite up into the air, the Athenian sky becomes a beautiful sight, filled with kites of all shapes and colors.

 

If you're wondering where exactly you can fly a kite in Athens, here are some of our top suggestions:

Syggrou Park


Credit: dasosygrou.gr

Syggrou Park is a lush urban paradise in the northern suburbs of the city, between Maroussi and Kifissia. This 950-acre park is a verdant heaven filled with pine trees, firs, cypresses, and almond trees. Here you will find cycling paths, footpaths, basketball, football, and volleyball courts, and quite a few clearings to practice your kite flying skills.

Sounio


The temple of Poseidon in Sounion. Credit: _zerfos_

Located approximately 70 kilometers from the city center, Sounio is an ideal Kathara Deftera destination. Around Sounio you will find plenty of beaches such as Legrena, Saronida and Agia Marina and open spaces to let your kite fly up into the air. After flying your kite head to a seaside tavern to enjoy a traditional Lenten lunch.

Mount Lycabettus


The stunning views from Mount Lycabettus. Credit: @giannischousos

 

Mount Lycabettus is the perfect place to go and fly your kite if you don’t want to leave too far from the city center. Located just a few minutes away from the lively Kolonaki neighborhood, Lycabettus offers amazing views of the city and plenty of open spaces ideal to send your kite soaring!

 

Philopappos Ηill


Wrap-around views from Philopappos Hill. Credit: @jananasss

Philopappos Hill is the most traditional and popular kite flying spot in Athens. Every year the City of Athens organizes a celebration with live music, lenten food, and traditional dances! We advise you to take the Metro to Acropolis station and continue on foot because, on Kathara Deftera, traffic and parking can be really challenging.

 

 

 

The mayor of the Greek city of Sparta recently announced recently that the city council is organizing a series of events to celebrate the 2,500th anniversary of the Battle of Thermopylae between the Spartans and the invading Persian army.

Spartans are particularly proud of this anniversary, when Leonidas, the warrior king of Sparta, led his brave 300 men in the legendary last stand against the Persian army, precisely 2,500 years ago next year.

The mayor of Sparta, Petros Doukas stated that the committee that will organize the celebratory events that will attract global attention has already been set up and comprises both Greek and foreign nationals. Namely, the board includes politicians, historians, and royals, as well as business people and distinguished personalities, from Greece, the UK, the US, and other countries around the world.

'They will help us with their international prestige, their knowledge, and their international relations and networking abilities in organizing events truly worthy of Sparta, Leonidas and the 300,' the mayor told AMNA.

 

The Battle of Thermopylae commemoration will include events that highlight the achievements of ancient Spartan civilization, including politics, geopolitics, poetry, philosophy, gymnastics, dance, martial arts, Spartan cuisine, and many others.

To read this article in full, please visit: Greek Reporter

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

During the holiday period, shops throughout the country will remain open on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., the Hellenic Retail Business Association (SELPE) said in a statement.

On Saturdays, they will be open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Sundays, December 11 and 18, they will open from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m., in order to help the public make their holiday purchases.

It should be noted that the member companies of SELPE have taken all the necessary measures to comply with the health rules, the association stressed.

Originally published on: ekathimerini.com

When planning your shopping excursions, it's essential to know about the diverse opening hours observed across different regions and types of stores.

 

Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the bustling shopping scene in Athens.

Opening Hours in Large Cities & Shopping Malls

In the vibrant centers of large cities, as well as large municipalities, stores typically follow continuous opening hours from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. This trend extends to renowned brands, department stores, and shopping malls, which typically operate from 9:00 or 10:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m.

Small Neighborhood Shop Hours

For most smaller and suburban stores, the working hours follow a unique schedule. On Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, you can shop during split shifts from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and then again from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. On Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday, these shops are open from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Supermarkets

Supermarkets operate on continuous shifts, typically from 8:00 a.m. or 9:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. on weekdays and until 8:00 p.m. on Saturdays.

Banking Hours

Banks in Greece operate from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Monday to Friday.

Sunday Shopping in Greece

On Sundays, shops selling food, drinks, and fuel are typically open from 07:00 to 22:00. Moreover, since 2018, specific regions have allowed commercial stores to open every Sunday from May to October.

 

In 2024, mark your calendar for special Sundays, including those during sales periods, Black Friday, and the festive season. Shops will remain open the following Sundays: 

• The first Sunday of the winter sales: January 14th
• The second Sunday of the winter sales: January 21st
• Palm Sunday: April 28
• The first Sunday of the summer sales: July 14
• The first Sunday after Black Friday: November 29
• The penultimate Sunday before Christmas: December 15
• The last Sunday before Christmas: December 22
• The last Sunday of the year: December 29

Supermarkets' Sunday Policies

Supermarkets may formulate individual policies regarding Sunday operations. During sale periods, most supermarkets are closed on Sundays, while they remain open during festive periods like Christmas and Easter.

During public holidays, shops remain closed. In 2024, public holidays in Greece include:

• New Year’s Day: January 1
• Epiphany: January 6
• Clean Monday (Ash Monday): March 18
• Greek Independence Day: March 25
• Orthodox Good Friday: May 1 (shops are open but close early)
• Orthodox Easter: May 3
• Orthodox Easter Monday: May 5
• Pentecost Monday: May 6
• Day of the Holy Spirit: June 23 - June 24
• Assumption of the Virgin Mary: August 15
• "Oxi" Day (National Holiday): October 28
• Christmas & Boxing Day: December 25 & 26

Festive Hours

For around 3 weeks leading up to the end of the year, stores in Greece embrace the festive season by opening daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. This provides customers with ample time to find the perfect gifts and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. A similar schedule is observed for the 10 days leading up to Easter. However, it's essential to note exceptions during Palm Sunday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday when stores follow a different schedule.

Please be aware that opening hours, especially during holidays and special occasions, are subject to change. We highly recommend double-checking the current schedules before embarking on your next shopping spree. This ensures you make the most of your time and enjoy a stress-free and delightful shopping experience.

Happy shopping!

We’ve all been there—knowing we need to work out but struggling to find the motivation to start. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast or just beginning your journey, getting into the right mindset can be one of the biggest challenges. The good news is, with a few simple strategies, you can boost your motivation and make getting active a regular part of your day. Here’s how:




1. Set Clear, Realistic Goals

Having a goal in mind makes it easier to stay motivated. Rather than aiming for something vague like “get fit,” set specific, measurable goals like “run 5k in 6 weeks” or “do 10 push-ups in a row.” Break them down into smaller milestones to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Each time you achieve one, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment, making it easier to keep going.

2. Create a Routine

Consistency is key when it comes to building a workout habit. Schedule your workouts at the same time each day, just like any other important appointment. Morning workouts are great for some people because they get it done before the day starts, while others prefer to wind down with exercise after work. Find what works for you and stick to it.

3. Get Your Gear Ready in Advance

Eliminate excuses by preparing your workout clothes and equipment ahead of time. If you plan to exercise in the morning, lay out your workout clothes the night before. If you're hitting the gym after work, pack your gym bag and have it ready to go. This simple act can make it easier to follow through with your plan.

4. Start Small & Build Up

If the thought of a full workout feels daunting, start small. Commit to just 10 minutes of exercise—once you're moving, you might find it easier to keep going. Often, the hardest part is getting started, and once you overcome that initial resistance, you'll be glad you did.

5. Find a Workout You Enjoy

You’re more likely to stay motivated if you actually enjoy the activity you're doing. If traditional gym workouts feel like a chore, experiment with different forms of exercise. Try dancing, swimming, hiking, yoga, or even group fitness classes. The key is to find something that feels less like a “workout” and more like fun.

6. Use Music or Podcasts as Motivation

Music can be a powerful motivator. Create a playlist of your favorite upbeat songs to get you energized. Alternatively, use your workout time to listen to an interesting podcast or audiobook. Focusing on something you enjoy can help distract you from the effort and make the time pass more quickly.

7. Reward Yourself

Incentives work wonders for motivation. Set up a reward system for reaching your workout goals. It could be something simple like treating yourself to a new fitness outfit, enjoying a movie night, or indulging in a relaxing bath after a tough session. The key is to associate working out with something positive.