XpatAthens

XpatAthens

Due to this year's unique circumstances and unprecedented events, people around Greece will celebrate Holy Week and Easter Sunday in a very different way.
 
Social distancing has become the new reality for Greeks who will be celebrating Easter in quarantine and only with their immediate family.
 
Following the closure of churches, religious services and all events surrounding Orthodox Easter in Athens are suspended to prevent the virus from spreading. The Greek National Television network will broadcast (on tv and online) all Holy Week services from both the Ecumenical Patriarchate and the Diocese of Athens.

Holy Monday
, April 13, 2020

18:00 Service of the Bridegroom from the Patriarchal Church of St. George on ERT3

19:00 Service of the Bridegroom from the Athens Cathedral on ERT2


Holy Tuesday
, April 14, 2020

17.30 Service of the Bridegroom from the Patriarchal Church of St. George on ERT3

19:00 Service of the Bridegroom from the Athens Cathedral on ERT2


Holy Wednesday
, April 15, 2020

15:00 The Mysterion of Unctionfrom the Patriarchal Church of St. George on ERT3

19:00 Service of the Holy Nipter from the Athens Cathedral on ERT2


Holy Thursday,
April 16, 2020

17:30 Service of Holy Passion (The Twelve Gospels) from the Patriarchal Church of St. George on ERT3

19:00 Service of Holy Passion (The Twelve Gospels) from the Athens Cathedral on ERT2


Good Friday
, April 17, 2020 

07:30 Service of The Royal Hours from the Athens Cathedral on ERT2

18:00 Service of the Lamentation from the Patriarchal Church of St. George on ERT3

17:00 Service of the Lamentation from the Athens Cathedral on ERT2


Holy Saturday, April 18, 2020

07:30 Vespers and Divine Liturgy of St Basil from the Athens Cathedral on ERT2

23:00 Service of the Holy Resurrection from the Patriarchal Church of St. George on ERT3

23:00 Service of the Holy Resurrection from the Athens Cathedral on ERT2


Easter Sunday, April 18, 2020

11.00 Vespers of Love from the Patriarchal Church of St. George on ERT3

11.00 Vespers of Love from the Athens Cathedral on ERT2


This content has been sourced and prepared by Codico Lab

With temperatures on the rise, we're happy to be getting outdoors and hitting the beach! Attica is home to many lovely beaches ideal for a day trip. Large or small, organized or not, sandy or pebbly - the choices are unlimited. All you need to do is start exploring and you're sure to find well-hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

One of these hideaways is Douni Island located on the southwestern part of the peninsula. It's indeed a sight to behold. With crystal clear waters, fine sand, and picturesque coves, it feels like you're on one of the celebrated Greek islands, even though you're only 30 minutes away from the heart of Athens.

It's not an organized beach which means you have to bring your own equipment, but this only makes it dreamier. It's like a peaceful sanctuary, a haven of serenity where you're guaranteed endless moments of relaxation under the glorious Greek sun.

How To Get There 

Duni island is located near the famous beach of Agia Marina in Koropi. Once you get there, continue driving in the direction to Sounion until you reach the beach of Althea. Then, continue on foot and head to Iliopoulos beach. Just walk through the sea and ta-dah! you're on Duni Island! 

Monday, 19 July 2021 00:18

The Good Life

What is your definition of "The Good Life"? In this week's newsletter you'll learn what our version of the good life includes! 

Please click HERE to view this issue of our newsletter!
Remember to stay connected with us through our weekly newsletterFacebookInstagram and LinkedIn.



Photo credit: @georginaforest


Tuesday, 02 August 2022 07:00

Greek Islands More Popular Than Ever

Greek islands are experiencing phenomenal growth in tourist numbers with inflow rates already higher than comparable numbers for 2019 before the coronavirus pandemic curtailed travel, several local mayors reported.

As they point out, August will raise the numbers even higher, judging by full hotels or annually expected last-minute bookings for August, while some islands report bookings at high capacity through September. Higher accommodation rates are observed not just at key tourism islands like Mykonos and Santorini, but on several other islands as well including those in the North Aegean.

Besides high rates of domestic tourism – especially for nearby islands like Andros – foreign travelers hail in the main from the United Kingdom, France, Italy, Germany, and the United States, hotel officials told Athens News agency.

Popular Destinations

Mykonos saw a rise in reservations, Andreas Fiorentinos, says head of niche tourism issues in ruling New Democracy and former head of the island’s hotel owners. Based on current and six-month figures, he notes the island expects a lot of last-minute bookings for August, as usual for the month.

Santorini has reached 100% capacity in reservations for August, according to Mayor Antonis Sigalas, who asserts the figures show an impressive rise over 2019 data. He also expects results from the expanded tourism season further into fall, and from an island strategy to encourage tourists to stay all over the island instead of focusing on towns such as Oia, which make it difficult for local residents.

Naxos is fully booked, Deputy Tourism of Naxos & Small Cyclades Vangelis Katsaras tells ANA-MPA. “Arrivals by ship rose 200% in May compared to 2019, and over 94% in June compared to 2021,” he notes.

September Reservations

Paros has far exceeded reservations in terms of 2019 numbers in June, by 40%, Mayor Markos Koveos says, and has welcomed over 120,000 arrivals by air or sea. It also sustained a good rate of inflows even during the two pandemic years. He expects high inflows to be sustained beyond September.

Similar high returns compared to 2019 are reported by officials on Milos, Ios, Andros, Sifnos, and Tinos.

To read this article in full, please visit: greekcitytimes.com
Clean Monday, known as "Kathara Deftera" in Greece, marks the beginning of Lent and is celebrated with outdoor picnics, kite flying, and delicious Lenten delicacies.

If you're in Athens and looking for the perfect spot to enjoy this festive occasion with family and friends, here are some top places near the city for a memorable Clean Monday picnic!


Parnitha National Park

Parnitha park
@vasia_feggarou

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and head to Parnitha National Park, located just a short drive from Athens. With its lush greenery, serene trails, and breathtaking views, Parnitha offers the ideal setting for a tranquil Clean Monday picnic amidst nature.

Lake Marathon

Lake Marathon
@lefteris_kro

Lake Marathon is a picturesque reservoir surrounded by pine forests and rolling hills. Set up your picnic blanket by the tranquil waters and enjoy a leisurely afternoon of kite-flying and feasting on traditional Lenten treats.

Vravrona Archaeological Site

Vravrona
@vanessaszymanska

For history enthusiasts, the Archaeological Site of Vavrona offers a unique picnic experience amidst ancient ruins and tranquil olive groves. Marvel at the ancient sanctuary of Artemis and then find a shady spot for your Clean Monday picnic while soaking in the rich history and natural beauty of the surroundings.

Anavyssos Beach

Anavissos
@katerina_ourgi

If you prefer a seaside picnic, head to Anavyssos Beach, located along the Athenian Riviera. Spread out your picnic blanket on the sandy shores, breathe in the fresh sea air, and enjoy a day of kite-flying and beachside fun with your loved ones.

Schinias National Park

Schinias
@stratosathens

Nature lovers will delight in the pristine beauty of Schinias National Park, home to sandy beaches, pine forests, and a unique coastal ecosystem. Pack your picnic essentials and spend the day exploring the park's natural wonders before settling down for a relaxing Clean Monday meal by the sea.

Kaisariani Monastery

Kaisariani 
@olch6060

For a tranquil retreat within the city limits, visit Kaisariani Monastery, nestled on the slopes of Mount Hymettus. Explore the monastery's historic grounds and lush gardens before finding a peaceful spot to relx amidst the serene surroundings.

Rafina Port

Rafina
@akis_tzevelekos

If you're craving a coastal atmosphere without venturing too far from Athens, Rafina Port offers a charming setting for a Clean Monday picnic by the sea. Enjoy panoramic views of the Aegean Sea, indulge in freshly caught seafood from local tavernas, and spend the day basking in the sun and sea breeze.
Wednesday, 18 February 2015 12:13

Kefalonia’s Magnificent Scenic Drive

Visitors to the island of Kefalonia have plenty to choose from when it comes to beaches and sightseeing. My favorite trip is the magnificent drive from Argostoli to the harbor village of Fiskardo. It’s one of the most scenic routes in the Greek islands and should be on everyone’s to-do list. After leaving the capital, you don’t have long to wait before the stunning views appear.

 

Head out round the southeastern edge of the lagoon, past the old bridge, and look back at the Argostoli waterfront. Don’t dwell on the panorama too long or you’ll miss the wonderful statues and mausoleums of Drapano Cemetery.

For the next few miles, the road climbs steeply until the crystal waters of Argostoli Bay sparkle in the sunshine hundreds of feet below. In the distance, across the channel, the hills of the Pali Peninsula intersect sea and sky. If you’ve rented a Porsche, the twisting corniche will put your driving skills to the test; for the rest of us, sit back, get the camera out and enjoy the ride—remember to bring extra batteries.

Eventually, you’ll cross the isthmus connecting the Pali Peninsula to the mainland. The sea view disappears for a few miles but the rugged hills, dotted with pines, speak of a desolate beauty. Don’t worry the best is still to come.

About twenty miles out of Argostoli is one of Europe’s most photographed beaches. Here you’ll need to decide whether to take the winding track down the cliff to Myrtos Beach or just pull over and take pictures. The light on these Kefalonian cliffs has an unworldly clarity, drawing every shade of blue and turquoise from the sea, setting it off against the snow-white arc of the beach.

A few miles further north, the ruined castle at Assos serves up another breathtaking view. Built by the Venetians in the 16th century, the fort sits atop a rocky outcrop overlooking a sheltered harbor and picturesque village. Home to some of the most photogenic buildings on the island, Assos is certainly worth checking out.

If you didn’t make it down to Myrtos, there’s still Emplisi Beach—five minutes out of Fiskardo. It’s a quiet sheltered cove, an ideal spot for a refreshing swim.
Next up is charming Fiskardo where pastel-painted buildings line the quayside, their walls festooned with flowers. Lock up the car, stroll down to the harbor and enjoy some Greek dishes under a shaded cabana by the water’s edge.

There’s plenty to see in Fiskardo but plan on leaving a couple of hours before sunset if you’re returning to Argostoli—negotiating the tortuous bends in the dark might not be for everyone.

If you make it back in time, finish the day at Saint Theodori’s Lighthouse. Santorini may be the sunset capital of the world but you won’t be disappointed as the sun disappears behind Paliki leaving the sky a kaleidoscope of purple, red and orange.

On days like these, it can seem unfair that Greece and its islands have so much natural beauty.

About the Author

Paul Dillon is a British author living in Los Angeles, California. His Kefalonia novel, The Magic in the Receiver, is currently an Amazon bestseller in the Greek Travel category.

Source: Visitgreece.gr

Under the presidency of Greek Prime Minister Antonis Samaras meets tomorrow New Democracy‘s executive secretariat in order to finalize the ratification of the party’s election ballots, which will shortly after be published.

According to reports, the renewal in the nominations reaches almost 60% and the persons involved are well-known in local communities. Doctors, lawyers, engineers, members of chambers and associations, local and regional officials as well as MEP candidates are among those to participate in the upcoming January 25 elections.

“It is the first time we are so well prepared,” said New Democracy’s executive members and emphasized that, despite the various press leaks, there was great willingness to participate in the ballots.

Similarly, Greek main opposition SYRIZA‘s central committee met today in order to take its final decisions on the matter. The special committee charged with the ballots drafting has completed its work and is expected to submit its proposals to the central committee, which might proceed with limited differentiations. The final ballots will be published today.

 

To read more, please visit greekreporter.com

By Aggelos Skordas

Greek company Hellenic Seaplanes has expanded its waterway network to include the ports of the North Aegean islands Chios, Psara and Oinousses, according to an announcement made on Thursday 16th April 2015.

The Chios Municipal Port Authority committee has awarded “Ydatodromio Chios, Psara and Oinousses IKE”, a subsidiary of Seaplanes Greece SA / Hellenic Seaplanes SA, the contractor rights.

The “Ydatodromia Chios, Psara and Oinousses IKE” will now apply for a license to operate the waterways at the ports.
According to Hellenic Seaplanes, which aims to connect the Greek islands with the mainland via waterways, some 50 waterways are in the process of creation and licensing countrywide.


To read more about this initiative, please visit: Greek Travel Pages.
Mark your calendars for Tuesday, November 24, at 7pm at Syntagma Square. Athens' Mayor Giorgos Kaminis will give the signal for the official illumination of the city center and welcome the holiday season!

Festivities will kick off at 5:30 pm with a music tour by two groups of the Athens Municipality Philharmonic Orchestra that will start from Ethnikis Antistasis Square (former Kotzias Square) and Monastiraki metro station. The groups will then meet at Syntagma Square to welcome Athenians and visitors.

At 7pm, Athens Big Band will feature Greek singer Sakis Rouvas who will make a special appearance at Syntagma Square and perform songs dedicated to Paris.

To read more, please visit: Greek Travel Pages
Wednesday, 17 May 2017 12:08

Study In Greece

Who We Are

Study in Greece is the official web portal of the Greek state, providing information and support regarding studying and living in Greece, to:
  • Domestic and international students who wish to, or already study in Greece for a higher education degree.

  • Students who participate to exchange programs, such as Erasmus+.

  • Refugees , immigrants and those who need international assistance, in order to foster integration into the Greek education system.

  • Any other case of students, or potential students.
It is an initiative taken by a group of Faculty members and University students. It is under the auspices of the Greek Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Education Research and Religious Affairs , both having a link to the "Study In Greece" portal on their websites homepages. A link to the portal is available on all Greek embassies webpages.

Our Incentives

Our international students expressed and described the difficulties they faced during all stages of applying, registering and settling in Greece. This, provided the motivation to form the Study In Greece group and start working on the gathering and the provision of information to international students, showing that Greece is a very friendly and a very safe destination. The initiative has gained very high popularity among potential and existing international students, a fact that is supported by the large number of questions and ‘likes’ we have through our presence in the social networks.

Our Vision
  • Contribute to the international spread of the Greek culture.

  • Support in making Greece a favorite destination for higher studies among international students and for all levels of higher education.

  • Extend the provided information and support to include refugees and people seeking international protection.

  • Expand the group and create a network of students and faculty members across all higher education institutions in Greece.

  • Create a European and International network of higher education institutions to support student mobility.

  • Serve as the main portal providing information and support, even at the individual level, for international students.

  • Provide continuously updated information regarding the higher education news, like new postgraduate programs announcements, legislation, news, etc.
Additional Links

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