XpatAthens
Monday, 29 August 2016 07:00
The History Of Olive Oil In Ancient Greece
Olive oil is always present at the Greek table and nearly every dish Greek cooks prepare uses this highly prized oil.
According to legend, Athena, the Goddess of Wisdom, is responsible for giving Athens the olive tree as a gift. It is unclear in some of the re-telling of this story whether other parts of Ancient Greece already had the olive tree or not. However, the story shows that the olive tree was highly important to the people of Ancient Greece.
In the legend, Athena and Poseidon were in competition over who would have the new city-state named after them. Poseidon struck the ground with his staff and gave the Athenians the gift of flowing salt water. Athena struck the ground with her staff and it turned into an olive tree.
Since the olive tree provided wood, nourishment, and trade, she won. The olive tree became a symbol of peace because of this victory.
Even though Athena is credited with giving the Athenians the gift of the olive tree, it is really the Early Minoan Civilization on Crete who displays evidence of being the first to cultivate the olive tree in 3500 BC.
Over time, the Minoans on Crete perfected the process of cultivating the tree and it became an important part of their culinary tradition and also helped generate income through trade. They were the first to export olive oil to both Africa and the Middle East.
The Ancient Greeks understood that olive oil was highly nutritious. Therefore, top philosophers and physicians in the 7th century BC in Ancient Greece explored the use of olive oil as medicine. Hippocrates, for example, used it for various things when he was treating his patients. Nowadays, olive oil is used to help with digestive problems, skin conditions, coughs, sore throat, congestion, and other respiratory complaints.
It’s also considered a health cure and essential beauty aid. The oil is used to combat dry skin, control frizzy hair, and even soothe irritated skin. It even played an important part in the Olympic games by becoming a symbol of the games themselves and part of the award given to winners. The olive tree, therefore, was not only important in history, but it also is still highly important today.
To read this article in full, please visit: Greek Boston
To read this article in full, please visit: Greek Boston
Published in
Greek Food & Diet
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Tuesday, 31 October 2017 08:26
Athens Transportation Ticket System - What You Need To Know
Over the last year, Athens has been preparing for changes to the public transportation system, most notably the transition from paper tickets to modern electronic tickets. With the new system, the paper tickets will be replaced by paper and plastic smartcards. Starting from November 1st, paper tickets will no longer be available. Please note that as of now, fare prices will stay the same.
Electronic Cards
There are 3 new types of transport tickets:
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The Ath.ena Ticket - Paper and rechargeable. Can be bought at every Athens transport ticket office or on the automatic ticket machines. Rechargeable at ticket offices and automatic ticket machines.
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The personalized Ath.ena Card — Plastic and rechargeable w/ card holder’s photo and name. Can be bought from certain Athens transport ticket offices. You can recharge your personalized Ath.ena Card at Athens transport ticket offices, automatic ticket machines, as well as online through a phone or tablet with NFC technology.
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The anonymous Ath.ena Card - Plastic and rechargeable. Can be bought from every Athens Transport ticket office. Rechargeable at ticket offices and automatic ticket machines.
After October 30th, passengers wishing to avoid the long lines may apply for a Personalized Ath.ena Card and receive it at home. To do so, the following documents are needed:
- Recent photo, the same type as those used for Greek passports or Greek police IDs
- A photocopy of an official document showing their AMKA health insurance number
- A photocopy of their current OASA-issued transport card along with the current paid coupon for October, or a previous month within 2017
- A printout of their online application and QR code issued through the Urban Transport Organisation (OASA) Site: www.athenacard.gr
On the unsealed envelope, you must include your name and address of preference (home, work) where the e-card should be sent. Please include the postal code. Envelope can be dropped off at any subway station during hours of service.
Please click HERE for more information on how to use the new electronic ticket/card system.
Sources: Tornos News, Athens Transport
Please click HERE for more information regarding the following:
- Getting to/from Athens International Airport
- City buses and trolleys
- Athens Metro
- Athens Tram
- Athens Suburban Railway
Published in
Local News
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Thursday, 04 October 2018 07:00
Amazing Facts About The Corinth Canal
Constructed in the late 19th century, specifically from 1880 to 1893, the Corinth Canal is one of Greece's most important accomplishments in engineering. Before it was built, ships wanting to cross the Adriatic or go to Corinth had to circle the Peloponnese, which added an additional 185 miles to the journey.
In the video below from Humans at Sea, we learn 10 interesting facts about this amazing engineering feat. Like the fact that it's only 6.3 kilometers in length, or 3.9 miles long!
Published in
Videos
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Tuesday, 09 July 2019 02:10
July 9 - Happy Birthday XpatAthens
On July 7th, we celebrate 12 years of connecting the international community with inspiring stories, news and great happenings in Athens and across Greece! We'd like to thank our entire team, our contributors, partners, media sponsorships and especially all of YOU for being part of our incredible journey. Cheers to many more!
Please click HERE to view this issue of our newsletter!
Published in
Newsletters
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Tuesday, 07 April 2020 04:00
Pink Supermoon To Shed Its Light Over Greece
While the coronavirus pandemic has brought anxiety and uncertainty to the world, a beautiful sight is on its way to remind us how a natural phenomenon can carry extraordinary beauty.
The April full moon is often referred to as Pink Moon because of the pink spring flowers that appear at around the same time of year.
The 3rd and brightest supermoon of the year is about to make its appearance in the Greek sky. At 21:08 (EEST) tonight Tuesday, April 7, the moon will reach its closest point for 2020 at a distance of 356.907 kilometers, at the perigee of its orbit making it appear 30% brighter and 14% larger. The full moon will occur at 05:35 (EEST) on Thursday, April 9.
In a time of isolation and social distancing, this stunning natural phenomenon can be observed from our balconies, terraces, rooftops, and gardens. Don't miss the change to witness the awe-inspiring Pink Moon tonight!
In a time of isolation and social distancing, this stunning natural phenomenon can be observed from our balconies, terraces, rooftops, and gardens. Don't miss the change to witness the awe-inspiring Pink Moon tonight!
This content has been sourced and prepared by Codico Lab.
Published in
Local News
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Thursday, 15 October 2020 08:21
Moms Don't Be Too Harsh On Yourselves
"There are times I really shout a lot at my child, and then I think I am probably not a very good mom, and this makes me feel horrible. Needless to say what this does to my confidence level; it just doesn't exist." That's what a new client told me recently, and she is not the only one. Most moms share similar concerns and wonder how they can be effective without having to increase the level of their voice or scream.
Truth is we have too many expectations for ourselves as moms but also for our children. Expectations that most probably passed on to us by our moms, grandmothers, aunts, etc.
But let me ask you, did you go to school to learn how to become a mom? Or did you perhaps study it at the university? Not only do we repeat the model we grew up with but quite often we may hear worthless comments from our partners such as "it's your fault; you are responsible for your - not our – child. After all, moms are often to blame for everything related to a child, aren't they?
It is time to end the doubts, guilt and dilemmas that afflict us moms. Because what we inadvertently achieve is to continually criticize ourselves instead of enjoying the incredible privilege of motherhood. Yes, sometimes we do shout when our patience exceeds our limits – and it does take a lot of patience. It is not the right thing to do, but it happens; we're only humans after all. Accept it, apologize to your child and move on. Next time you're about to lose your cool, do something to improve your reaction.
Because there is a way to be effective without voices, anger and commotion, and it is a taught practice. No woman is born a "ready-made mom", but every woman can become a great mom!
If there’s a topic you’re interested in and would like to learn more about you may contact me via email. For more information about me and my work check the XpatAthens Directory or visit my website. Because this is your life!
Published in
Parenting
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Tuesday, 04 May 2021 14:32
Small Ways We Can Protect The Environment
There are so many small steps we can take to help protect the environment from using metal straws instead of plastic ones to reducing food waste by eating leftovers and making use of the vegetables in the fridge before they go bad.
Here are a few eco-friendly habits that do their part in protecting the environment on a regular basis. Which of these strategies will you try?
Turn off the lights when you leave the room
Marta from France recommends: “Ever since I was little, I was told to turn the lights off when I left a room. I’ve continued that habit into adulthood and have passed it on to my kids. There’s no need to keep the light on in an empty room, and every small green gesture helps.”
Bring your own bags to the grocery store
Kaleana from California recommends: “Since the pandemic began, our local grocery stores were forced to ban reusable bags. This has resulted in the excessive use of plastic bags for each grocery run. To help mitigate this, I began to request that the grocery clerk simply reload my groceries into the cart at checkout. Then, I would transfer the items into the reusable bags in the trunk of my car from the parking lot. This has allowed me to follow COVID protocols while reducing my carbon footprint!
Kaleana from California recommends: “Since the pandemic began, our local grocery stores were forced to ban reusable bags. This has resulted in the excessive use of plastic bags for each grocery run. To help mitigate this, I began to request that the grocery clerk simply reload my groceries into the cart at checkout. Then, I would transfer the items into the reusable bags in the trunk of my car from the parking lot. This has allowed me to follow COVID protocols while reducing my carbon footprint!
Swap out your paper towels for cloth
Nikki from Illinois recommends: “In an effort to leave a better world for my grandchildren, I started using cloth napkins and cotton towels instead of paper napkins and towels. Sadly, paper towel production not only destroys a large number of trees but also uses a lot of water. Not to mention, a lot of our paper products end up in landfills. I’ve also started using wool dryer balls versus the dryer sheets which are single-use and loaded with chemicals. I’m taking an inch-by-inch approach as I work to be a better steward of our planet.”
Nikki from Illinois recommends: “In an effort to leave a better world for my grandchildren, I started using cloth napkins and cotton towels instead of paper napkins and towels. Sadly, paper towel production not only destroys a large number of trees but also uses a lot of water. Not to mention, a lot of our paper products end up in landfills. I’ve also started using wool dryer balls versus the dryer sheets which are single-use and loaded with chemicals. I’m taking an inch-by-inch approach as I work to be a better steward of our planet.”
Start using a metal water bottle
Isabelle from California recommends: “I do not use plastic bottles anymore, and I’m making an effort to use only metal bottles that I refill when I am on the go. I also help a local organization, Child Creativity Lab, build STEAM kits for kid programs with recyclable materials and we encourage the local community and businesses to recycle materials going to trash by dropping them off at our lab.”
To read this article in full please visit: thriveglobal.com
Isabelle from California recommends: “I do not use plastic bottles anymore, and I’m making an effort to use only metal bottles that I refill when I am on the go. I also help a local organization, Child Creativity Lab, build STEAM kits for kid programs with recyclable materials and we encourage the local community and businesses to recycle materials going to trash by dropping them off at our lab.”
To read this article in full please visit: thriveglobal.com
Published in
Planet
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Thursday, 25 April 2024 07:00
Great Seaside Greek Destinations To Visit This Spring
Spring is one of the most beautiful seasons of the year. When traveling in Greece during spring one can admire nature at its best, get acquainted with the authenticity of the place, away from the crowds of summer, and, of course, enjoy the mild temperatures as opposed to the scorching summer heat.
Let's uncover together 4 destinations by the sea, perfect to visit during the spring months!
Nafpaktos
@mynafpaktos
Let's uncover together 4 destinations by the sea, perfect to visit during the spring months!
Nafpaktos
@mynafpaktos
Once an important Athenian naval station in the Peloponnesian war, the seaside town of Nafpaktos, on the north coast of the Corinth Gulf offers a relaxing atmosphere all year round. It boasts a picturesque harbor teeming with restaurants and cafés. Visit the Venetian Castle and, if the weather permits, explore the nearby beaches of Chiliadou, Monastiraki, and Psani.
Gytheio
@sofiasachouli
Gytheio
@sofiasachouli
The charming harbor town of Gytheio is located on the southern side of Peloponnese and is an ideal spring destination. Hiking around Gytheio and discovering the old footpaths that lead to antique churches, enchanting villages, unspoiled beaches, and marvelous views of the sea is popular among visitors. Once there, make sure to try delicious local specialties at one of the numerous seaside taverns.
Galaxidi
@greekmood2
@greekmood2
Fokida's crown jewel, the gorgeous Galaxidi, is just a short distance from Athens. You will be enchanted by the traditional settlement, which strongly retains its authentic character. Admire the sea, the colorful captain’s houses, and the restored mansions carrying a sense of past grandeur. Agora and Chirolakas, its two natural harbors, are not to be missed as they once served as a naval base.
Spetses
@spetsesisland
The affluent island of Spetses in the Saronic Gulf is without a doubt one of the best spring break destinations in Greece. Romantic and cosmopolitan, you will fall in love with its beautiful beaches and friendly residents. The Museum dedicated to Bouboulina, the fascinating Spetses Museum, and the islet of Spetsopoula are some of the island's main attractions, definitely worth visiting.
Spetses
@spetsesisland
The affluent island of Spetses in the Saronic Gulf is without a doubt one of the best spring break destinations in Greece. Romantic and cosmopolitan, you will fall in love with its beautiful beaches and friendly residents. The Museum dedicated to Bouboulina, the fascinating Spetses Museum, and the islet of Spetsopoula are some of the island's main attractions, definitely worth visiting.
Published in
Travel Greece
Tagged under
Wednesday, 26 February 2025 12:34
Taramosalata: A Lenten Dip For Clean Monday
Taramosalata, a creamy Greek dip, blends the delicate flavors of fish roe, olive oil, lemon juice, and bread crumbs. It's a staple of Greek cuisine, often enjoyed as an appetizer or spread on bread. It's also a Lenten favorite, savored during fasting periods, especially on Clean Monday.
Here's a recipe for a delicious homemade version of taramosalata to tantalize your taste buds!
Ingredients:
300 g bread, crust-less,
1.2 liters water
1 onion
2 cloves of garlic
200 g fish roe
white lemon juice of 2-3 lemons
lemon zest of 2-3 lemons
pepper
100 g olive oil
200 g seed oil
To serve:
olives
1 tablespoon olive oil
pepper
1 tablespoon thyme, fresh
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, add the bread and water. Let it soak thoroughly.
- Line a separate bowl with a kitchen towel. Add the bread and water. Wrap the bread in the towel and wring to remove as much of the water as possible. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
- In a food processor, add the onion, garlic, and 200 g of water. Beat until completely pulverized.
- Transfer to a bowl lined with a kitchen towel and wring to remove as much of the liquid as possible.
- Place back in the food processor and add the fish roe, soaked bread, pepper, lemon juice, and lemon zest (2-3 lemons, depending on their acidity and your preferences). Beat for 3-4 minutes until the mixture is completely combined and fluffy.
- Add the olive oil and vegetable oil in a slow, steady stream while beating. If your food processor doesn’t have an opening, add the oils in 50-gram batches for each type of oil.
- Taste and adjust the lemon to your liking.
- Serve with olive oil, pepper, thyme, and olives.
Originally published on: akispetretzikis.com
Published in
Greek Food & Diet
Tagged under
Sunday, 04 February 2024 07:00
Guide To Healthcare In Greece
Generally, the quality of Greek public health care is good, especially on mainland Greece. However, the recent financial crisis hasn't left the country's national health care system unaffected. This article explains public and private health service in Greece.
Public Healthcare
Public Healthcare
International citizens and their families can have access to free or low-cost public healthcare if they are subscribed to the Single Social Security Entity (EFKA), the public insurance company that oversees the country's social security. Once employed, they should apply for national health insurance and will be given a social security number known as AMKA. Medical care by EFKA-approved doctors is for the most part free, although patients will pay a contribution for prescribed medicines. Other social security benefits include free laboratory tests, maternity care, medical devices, and emergency transportation.
European Union nationals can also gain free healthcare benefits, for a limited period, provided they have their European Health Card. Pensioners from EU countries receiving a pension from their home country, intending to reside in Greece, are also entitled to state health benefits.
Primary healthcare is provided by ESY through regional health centers, clinics, and public hospital outpatient units. Public primary healthcare is also provided by social insurance funds, local authorities, and municipalities. Depending on their services, Greek hospitals are classified as either general or specialized.
Private Healthcare
Healthcare services in Greece are also extensively provided by the private sector. Private healthcare is provided by physicians contracted with insurance companies, independent physicians, and physicians who work in diagnostic centers, laboratories, and private hospital outpatient departments.
Private medical facilities generally offer better facilities and more modern equipment. Medical staff in private hospitals are also more likely to be able to communicate in English. Considering that the cost of private medical care is not covered by National Organization For Health Care Services (EOPYY), many Greeks also have private health insurance. International citizens who want to have access to private healthcare in Greece should consider purchasing private health insurance.
Pharmacies And Medicines
Pharmacies in Greece have a sign with a green cross on a white background. Most medication is easily accessible, although some specialized medicines may only be available from hospitals and state-run pharmacies. Pharmacies are generally open from 8 am-2.30 pm and 5.30 pm-8.30 pm, but many central pharmacies stay open throughout the day.
You can easily find on-duty pharmacies by visiting vrisko.gr. Simply select your prefecture and then choose your specific city or region to view the available options.
Emergency Services
Even though public ambulances are typically widely available in larger cities, access may be more difficult on some islands and remote areas. In these cases, private ambulances, EKAV helicopters, and taxis may be legitimate alternatives depending on the situation.
166 - The ambulance service in Greece, known as the EKAV
112 - As with other countries in the EU, the general emergency number in Greece
Published in
Healthcare, Insurance & Visas
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