XpatAthens

XpatAthens

Wednesday, 18 February 2015 11:56

Natural Spa Destinations In Greece

Greece has not only crowded beaches and a beautiful blue sea, it is also the ideal place for people seeking natural life, alternative bathing in lakes and ponds or thermal heeling spas. Polylimnio, near the city of Kalamata in the Peloponnese, is a hidden paradise with ponds and waterfalls, surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. Fifteen lakes, well hidden for many years, have recently started to attract nature lovers.

The water is freezing during the winter but in the summer visitors can enjoy the cool water of the lakes.

For those seeking to combine mountain sports with a touch of nature’s luxurious sensations, the mythical lake Drakolimni offers a unique experience. At an altitude of 2,050 meters, on the Gamila peak, in Epirus region, lake Drakolimni is not an easy conquest. The path to Drakolimni, which starts from the village Small Papigkon lasts about 4 hours, giving visitors the chance to enjoy their diving in cold waters.

To read more, please visit greeknewsagenda.gr

Thursday, 19 February 2015 13:08

Moscovici Shows Support For Greek Government

The European Union's top economic official praised Greece's reform efforts during his official visit to Athens, in a sign of support for the pro-bailout coalition government before a presidential vote that could trigger its collapse.

Such effort has been made by the Greek authorities that is bearing fruit now. It is a pity not to go on," EU Economic Affairs Commissioner Pierre Moscovici told reporters after a meeting with the Prime Minister Antonis Samaras.

"We can say that huge progress (on implementing reforms and restoring the public finances) has been made. The largest part of the effort has been made," said Moscovici, whose two-day visit is seen as a show of solidarity with Samaras.

To read more, please visit thetoc.gr/eng

Archaeologists have discovered the site where the Greek fleet gathered for the Battle of Salamis (480BC), the first great naval battle recorded in history and one of the most important ever fought by ancient Greeks. Taking place during the Greco-Persian Wars, the Greek naval troops managed to defeat a much larger Persian fleet.

The scientific team in Greece have discovered antiquities at the ancient port of Ampelakia Bay, believed to be at the spot Greek naval forces assembled before engaging in the historic battle.

Using aerial photography, photogrammentric processing, and topographical and architectural documentation, the archaeologists identified ancient harbour structures and fortifications, alongside the remains of other buildings.

To read this article in full, please visit: Greek City Times
Tuesday, 02 July 2019 21:39

Watermelon And Feta Salad

Combining juicy, chilled slices of watermelon and salty, creamy feta cheese is a Greek summer favourite. This watermelon feta salad recipe includes crispy cucumber, tangy kalamata olives and thin slices of red onion garnished with a touch of lemon dressing and fresh vibrant mint leaves to turn this surprising combination into a delicious watermelon feta salad.

 

 

Serves: 4-6
Difficulty: Easy
Cooks in: 10 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1kg watermelon, seedless and cut into chunks 
  • 250g feta cheese, cut into cubes or crumbled
  • a bunch of mint, leaves only, chopped
  • 1 small red onion, finely sliced
  • 100g Kalamata olives, pitted 
  • 1 small cucumber, peeled and diced (optional)
For the Dressing
  • 1/4 of a cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsps lemon juice
  • 1 tsp brown sugar
  • salt and pepper to taste
To view this recipe in full, please visit: My Greek Dish
 
Photo Credit: My Greek Dish
Tuesday, 19 June 2018 21:19

June 19 - For The Love Of Culture

It is sometimes impossible not to love Greece and a couple from abroad proved it by moving to Lesvos and creating TrustedHousesitters.com, in order to look after pets while their owners are away. Anthony Bourdain explains his love about a particular Aegean island and a handy Greek phrase book will make your trip to Greece much easier!



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The Central Council of Contemporary Monuments decided last month to approve plans for the renovation of the historic Modiano Market in the Greek city of Thessaloniki.
 
The Modiano Market was built by renowned architect Eli Modiano in the 1920’s and has always remained a vibrant spot of the city, a meeting point, and one of the most popular marketplaces in Thessaloniki.
 
According to the architectural firm, the plan is to combine the retro elements of the building with contemporary architectural styles. Restoration works will last approximately one year, giving the Modiano Market its new face around June 2020.

To read this article in full, please visit: GreekReporter.com
Tuesday, 18 June 2019 12:20

Nanos Studios - Parga, Greece

Nanos Studios is an accommodation complex situated in the impressively beautiful town of Parga in northwestern Greece.

Built in 2002 on a hillside, the property offers a breathtaking view of the entire town, the Venetian castle, and the picturesque island of the Virgin Mary.

Nanos Studios is comprised of 14 studios, 3 apartments for 4 or 5 persons, and 1 smaller apartment guest up to 4 persons.

Operating period: May - October
Monday, 06 April 2020 15:52

Showcasing Greece From Home

As we go through an unprecedented crisis, with profound consequences for both our fellow citizens and the economy, it has become more critical than ever to protect public health. The Ministry of Tourism, the Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO) and all tourism bodies stand by the Greek government in the fight against the coronavirus pandemic, advocating that the only responsible choice is to "stay home."
 
Alongside the state's measures to support the travel industry, the Ministry of Tourism, GNTO, and Marketing Greece created the online platform GreeceFromHome, an initiative to enhance the image of our country during the pandemic.

The platform's primary objectives are to help people around the world stay in touch with Greek culture, to discover and be inspired by Greece's beauty, and to enhance their digital skills–all while staying at home.

















The #greecefromhome initiative consists of 3 pillars:

Watch

People are encouraged not just to stay home, but to stay connected to Greek culture through the GNTO Greek Creators channel Visit Greece on YouTube. The channel will offer new and curated content by Greek artists and personalities from around the world. It will include Greek-inspired music, gastronomy, theater, dance, sports, and fashion as well as videos of destinations and experiences from all over Greece.

Visit

Being at home doesn't mean you can't "visit" Greece. Through www.discovergreece.com, visitors can enjoy rich content and inspiring digital experiences. Archaeological sites and museums, villages and traditions, gastronomy, sightseeing, enjoying nature and of course the sea ... all from the safety of your home.

Learn

This time presents unique challenges for businesses and professionals. Digital skills are more important than ever – whether one is working from home, connecting with customers, or distance learning – so we want to help you with the free online training courses provided by Grow with Google. The courses are flexible and personalized, designed to build your confidence and skills. Learn about creating a digital marketing plan, using social media effectively, the art of storytelling, and much more. Staying at home can also mean staying ahead.
 
Wherever you are, while we're apart at home, let's stay together!

To discover #greecefromhome, please click here

Greek Maritime Golf Event, the top golf tournament for the maritime community returns for the 8th year renewing its annual appointment with the Greek and world maritime industry, on September 8-11, 2022, at Costa Navarino, Messinia.
 
Golf action in 2 new signature courses
The best golf event in Greece and Cyprus, as distinguished at the Sports Marketing Awards 2020, is expected to bring together more than 80 leading executives from the maritime industry forming 20 teams of four. Golfers will have the opportunity to play in the two new 18-hole signature golf courses, designed by two-time Masters champion and Ryder Cup legend José Marίa Olazábal at Navarino Hills. The action will take place in an idyllic landscape full of centuries-old olive trees with stunning views of the Ionian Sea, the historic Bay of Navarino and the picturesque port of Pylos.
 
The games
Participants will compete on a team level on Friday, September 9, in the two (2) ball better ball (3/4 hcp) at The Hills Course. Respectively, on Saturday, September 10, they will take part in a shotgun scramble that will take place at the International Olympic Academy Golf Course.

Watch the tournament’s teaser video HERE
 
Distinctions for the top teams 
Participating teams will claim the significant prizes for the top three positions in the overall standings; while special awards will be given to individual players who will achieve the best scores in the “Longest Drive” and “Closest to the Pin” categories.
 
IRI/The Marshall Islands Registry is the event’s Platinum Sponsor.
Mainline Shipping Company and Jotun Hellas are Golden Sponsors. 
DNV is the Silver Sponsor. 
Boo Productions is the Audio Visual Partner.
 
Greek Maritime Golf Event, is organized by Birdie Events, through an initiative of the recognized Greek PGA golfer, Mr. Thanos Karantzias. The award-winning sports marketing agency of ActiveMedia Group has undertaken the event’s Golf Production. The tournament is addressed exclusively to distinguished executives of the Greek shipping community.
 
The tournament will bring together representatives of the Greek and world shipping industry, who will have the opportunity to enjoy their favorite sport, golf, in a completely safe destination, with the necessary approvals of the Health Scientific Committee of the General Secretariat of Sports, taking into account the strict specifications set by the Hellenic Golf Federation and the health & safety conditions that will be valid at that time.
 
More information about the schedule of this year’s event and the unique moments that golfers will experience during the tournament, will be announced in the coming weeks.

Photo Credit: Greek Maritime Golf Event by Mike Tsolis

Hashtags: #greekmaritimegolfevent #costavarino #navarinohills
A vibrant carnival extravaganza sweeps through the city's neighborhoods, igniting joy and festivity at every turn.

With 80 lively events spread across 55 diverse locations, the pulse of the carnival resonates throughout the Municipality of Athens. From lively Tsiknopempti festivities to spirited carnival celebrations, the city comes alive with traditions and merrymaking. For 23 days, every corner of the city becomes a stage for music, dance, and cultural revelry, creating memories to cherish for years to come.

Experience the vibrant fusion of music and tradition on Tsiknopempti.

On Thursday, March 7th, the melodies of carnival tradition will reverberate through Varvakeio Agora, Monastiraki Square, and the surrounding streets. At 11:30, join the public in Varvakeio Agora to welcome the Philharmonic Orchestra of the Municipality of Athens. Meanwhile, at 12:00, the "Vakhes” Greek Dancing Group will kick off its carnival procession from Syntagma Square. Their carnival route includes a stop at Kotzia Square to showcase the custom of the Ribbons of Naxos, before culminating in the lively ambiance of Monastiraki Square. There, the enchanting tunes of the bands Charisma and Isidoros Pateros will captivate audiences with their music and songs, ensuring an unforgettable celebration.

Witness the enchanting spectacle as young revelers embrace the carnival festivities.

Children, the heart of the carnival, dress themselves in colorful costumes and swarm the squares and cultural venues of Athens, eager to partake in the joyous celebrations and engage in playful enactments that bring them closer to the carnival tradition. The National Gallery, the Museum of Folk Art and Tradition "Angeliki Hatzimichali", the Plato Academy Digital Museum, libraries, creative learning centers, and the Hellenic Children's Museum extend a warm invitation to families, offering a plethora of educational and museum-pedagogical programs. From workshops exploring visual arts and constructions to musical movement and fairy tale dramatizations, along with theatrical games and captivating music and dance events, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Carnival activities unfold across various squares, including Gyzi, Plyta, Agios Georgios, Agios Dimitrios (Panormos), and the Kolokynthou Municipal indoor swimming pool, as well as Mayor Dimitris Beis Park. Meanwhile, Thymarakion Square and the pedestrian street at the junction of Gennaios Kolokotronis and Matrozos undergo a magical transformation into vibrant party hubs, igniting the spirits of both young and old alike.

Experience the rich tapestry of tradition and the vibrant carnival routes winding through the streets of the city.

Apokria, a cherished Greek celebration steeped in ancient roots, exudes a timeless charm and a distinct regional flair across Greece. The Municipality of Athens proudly shines a spotlight on tradition and carnival customs, infusing Athenian neighborhoods with their essence. Throughout the carnival season, cultural clubs grace the city streets, presenting traditional dances and reviving local carnival customs, thus immersing us in the true spirit of the Carnival and spreading jubilant merriment.

The festivities kick off on Tsiknopempti, March 7th, with the "Vakhes” Greek Dancing Group leading the way. During their carnival route, they'll pause at Kotzia Square to honor the custom of the Ribbons of Naxos. The revelry continues on Sunday, March 10th, with the Zakynthian Union of Athens hosting the carnival sergiani in Plaka, featuring chants and traditional dances of Zakynthos. Meanwhile, Platonos Square comes alive with a carnival event showcasing pranks from across Greece, accompanied by live traditional music from regional cultural organizations and the delightful wanderings of Horostasi through the streets of Plaka, complete with merry-go-rounds, events, carnival dances, and songs.

On Saturday, March 16th, the Lesvos Farmers' Union "Agios Dimitrios" and the Cultural Association of Traditional Dances and Cultural Activities "O Molyvos" promise to whisk us away on another journey into the carnival tradition with a revival of "Patinada," a cherished local custom of Lesvos. Finally, on Sunday, March 17th, we bid farewell to the Athenian Carnival with a grand procession in the city center, presented by the Athens Chamber of Commerce and Industry with support from OPANDA, featuring animators, jugglers, Brazilian percussionists, and other entertainers.

The neighborhoods of Athens will be pulsating with excitement as carnival routes flood the streets with joyous rhythms. On Sunday, March 10th, a carnival route of percussion will traverse from Attica Square to Victoria Square, while Morfes Ekfrasis will transport us to Votanikos for a carnival reminiscent of days past. Then, on Saturday, March 16th, the percussion ensemble Bloco Swingueira will electrify the city with the irresistible beats of Brazilian rhythm and dance.

Discover a symphony of cultural delights with a lineup of concerts, music, dance events, and theatrical performances.

The Music Ensembles of the Municipality of Athens will enchant audiences throughout the carnival season with their melodic offerings, filling various corners of Athens with their harmonious tunes. The Philharmonic Orchestra will grace neighborhoods with their musical presence, while Martha Moreleon and the Big Band inject a jazzy flair into the carnival celebrations. Additionally, the Greek Music Workshop, led by Dora Loizou and Manolis Skoulas, promises to elevate the Halloween festivities with their captivating melodies.

Moreover, this year's eclectic carnival program, curated by the Municipality of Athens, boasts an array of entertainment options. Concerts, music, and dance events, as well as theatrical performances, will unfold in cultural venues across the city. From the Arts Centre hosting a concert on March 9th to the Polychoros Municipality of Athens Anna & Maria Kalouta featuring theatrical performances on March 9th and 10th, there's something to entice every artistic palate. The Melina Cultural Centre will come alive with a dynamic music and dance event on March 10th, while the Olympia Municipal Music Theatre "Maria Callas" presents a music theater performance directed by Giorgos Vassiliadis on March 10th. Additionally, the Municipal Market of Kypseliwill host a vibrant music and dance event on March 13th, rounding out the cultural festivities with flair and finesse.

Experience the grand finale of the carnival season on Clean Monday atop the iconic Filopappos Hill.

This cherished tradition brings together families and friends to celebrate the beginning of Lent in a joyous atmosphere filled with kite flying and the beloved custom of Kouloumas. Joining in this jubilant occasion are the illustrious Philharmonic Orchestra of the Municipality of Athens and the captivating sounds of the Charisma band, creating an unforgettable ambiance of harmony and merriment against the backdrop of the Athenian skyline.


To read the full program in Greek, please click HERE









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