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XpatAthens

XpatAthens

Saturday, 15 March 2025 10:48

Trekking Adventure In Northern Greece

Experience the Best of Zagorochoria | May 11th - 17th

Explore the breathtaking Vikos Aoos National Park, where dramatic mountain trails, ancient history, and rich culture come together. This isn’t just a trip—it’s a journey for hiking and nature enthusiasts to experience Greece’s wild, untouched beauty.

What to Expect:

🌉 Visit iconic Zagorochoria stone bridges
🪜 Conquer the legendary Vradeto Steps
🌌 Navigate the awe-inspiring Vikos Gorge
🏔️ Reach Dragon Lake, an alpine treasure
🚣‍♂️ Raft the breathtaking Voidomatis River
🏨 Enjoy 6 nights in cozy traditional hotels
🍷 Indulge in all-inclusive meals, snacks, and wine
🧘 Relax with daily yoga/stretching for post-hike bliss



Trail Details
  • Total distance: Approximately 60km
  • Longest trail: 20km
This tour is specifically designed for hiking and nature lovers, offering access to some of the most majestic landscapes in Vikos Aoos National Park. The trails are among the most dramatic in Greece, appealing to avid hikers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

Highlights

Walk along ancient footpaths and explore Greece’s cultural heritage as you cross iconic stone bridges, climb the legendary Vradeto Steps, navigate the dramatic Vikos Gorge (the world’s deepest canyon), and reach the stunning Dragon Lake, a hidden alpine gem.

Discover the unspoiled side of Greece, far from tourist hotspots. Immerse yourself in lush valleys, ancient sites, and pristine trails that showcase the wild beauty of the Pindus Mountains. This program features a mix of challenging yet rewarding hikes, perfect for those seeking adventure and a deeper connection to nature. 🌿✨

To book now or submit an inquiry, please CLICK HERE!

About Nefeli Nine
 
Nefeli Nine offers a truly unique retreat experience in Greece, blending wellness, relaxation, and personalized care. It provides an intimate and rejuvenating environment, featuring tailored fitness programs, farm-to-table dining, and tranquil accommodations. Perfect for those seeking a balanced escape, Nefeli Nine invites guests to unwind and reconnect in harmony with nature. 🌿✨

Duration: 15 – 31 May, 2025
Hours: Thursday – Saturday, 17.00 -20.00
Opening: Thursday, 15 May, 18.00

FokiaNou Art Space is pleased to present the fourth edition of the annual group exhibition “Flower Power”, an artistic tribute to the beauty, resilience and timeless symbolism of flowers. The exhibition emerged from an open call to artists, who responded with works covering a wide range of techniques and materials, from painting and photography to sculpture, installations and mixed media. Curated by Panagiotis Voulgaris and Mary Cox, the exhibition hosts a multitude of artistic approaches, depicting the the diverse interpretations and emotional connections artists have with floral themes—ranging from vibrant representations of nature to abstract, conceptual explorations.

vani koronaki
 
Now that we are in May, the month of flowering and rebirth, Athens is flooded with images and aromas of nature. In this festive and optimistic atmosphere, the exhibition “Flower Power 4” comes at the right time, inviting the public to an artistic walk full of light, sensitivity and creativity. Flowers, symbols of transience but also of the beauty of the ephemeral, acquire new meaning through the eyes of contemporary artists. 

dora konsta
 
Participating artists: 

Bodarch (P. Petrou and S. Chatzipanayotou), Lorenz Bögle, Seyran Deniz, Panagiotis Ferentinos, Penny Geka, Katerina Kokkinaki, Dwra Konsta, Vani Koronaki, Kalliopi Kouklinou, Maria Claudia Litsas, Jennie London, George Manouzas, Pandora Mouriki, Despoina Pantazi, Gabriela Papaefthimiou, Apostolos Papageorgiou, Kristel Pent, Geeta Roopnarine, Natalia Ryapolova, Efi Seitanidou, Stella Sevastopoulos, Georgia Maggy Touliatou, Marios Trichas, Georg Vesper, Lisa Waldner

This is Loco, Athens' artistic brunch café with a global soul, proudly presents "From Island to Metropolis", an immersive exhibition by the multidisciplinary artist Denia Panagaki where flavors, creativity, and cultures converge.

"From Island to Metropolis" tells the story of three unusual companions, a mermaid, a rooster, and a prickly pear, each representing a unique aspect of the human experience as they transition from island life to the bustling metropolis. Through a masterful blend of marble and paper textures, enhanced by intricate carving techniques, Panagaki crafts a rich, symbolic narrative:

  • The Mermaid – a deeply feminine figure, carved with salt-crusted memories, symbolizing the longing for the sea and the self.

  • The Rooster – the resilient male figure, painted and carved as a symbol of ritual and survival in a fast-paced urban world.

  • The Prickly Pear – rendered in abstract form, capturing the defiance, rootedness, and quiet endurance of nature amidst urban decay.

With a background that spans Business Administration, Economics, Advertising, and Fashion, Denia’s artistic journey has taken her from the bustling streets of London to the tranquil beaches of Bali, India, and beyond. Her work draws on these diverse influences, weaving together symbolic narratives, ancient traditions, and powerful reflections on feminine identity.

Opening Friday, May 16th, 2025, from 12:00 to 20:00, this exhibition invites you to explore a captivating journey from the serene shores of Tinos to the vibrant pulse of Athens. Through the tactile beauty of marble and paper, Denia’s pieces capture the tension between nature’s timelessness and the ever-changing rhythms of urban life.

"I want visitors to feel as though they are walking alongside these figures, moving through the hidden corners of the city and the echoes of the sea,"
 says Panagaki. "It is a dialogue between tradition and modernity, between nature and the man-made world."

Join in daily from 9:00 to 20:00 until June 15th, and let Loco be your gateway to a world of art, culture, and connection.

The Athens Street Food Festival is back on May 16-17-18 at the Old Depot of OSY in Gazi, bringing together dozens of pop-up food stalls from around the world! From Japan and Thailand to the Maldives and Mexico, foodies will get to taste exclusive street food creations that can’t be found anywhere else. With over 100,000 visitors each year, this festival has become a cornerstone of Greek gastronomy, mixing incredible flavors, vibrant music, and an electric festival atmosphere.

Churros french toast 2

This is Loco is turning up the heat with a special festival-only menu that’s as bold and eclectic as its vibe:

🌮 Tacos de Provatina – a fearless fusion of Greek tradition and Mexican street food, blending tender, slow-cooked lamb with authentic taco spices.
🥕 Tacos de Zanahoria – a creative, flavor-packed vegan twist that’s as vibrant as the festival itself.
🌯 Burrito Vegano – a hearty, plant-powered burrito bursting with fresh ingredients and bold flavors.
🍮 Churros French Toast – crispy, golden perfection with a salty caramel drizzle – the ultimate street food indulgence.
🍰 3 Leches Cake – a decadent vanilla cake made with three types of milk and topped with a cherry – pure, creamy bliss.

3 Leches 2

Eat with your hands and savor every bite like it’s the first time!

This is more than just a menu – it’s a Loco street food adventure, blending tradition and creativity, just like the café itself.

📅 Festival Hours:

Friday: 17:00 – 00:00
Saturday: 12:00 – 00:00
Sunday: 12:00 – 00:00

Hello ladies!

I’m Angeliki, the content creator for Xpat Athens. I’ve been serving the local community for many years, and I’ve decided to blend this with my studies. I’m a psychology graduate and postgraduate, specializing in children’s mental health, but my university program also included extensive language lessons. I am highly proficient in both Greek and Ancient Greek, with a full understanding of the language.

For the past 7 years, I’ve been teaching both Modern and Ancient Greek, helping students of all backgrounds connect with the language on a deeper level.

My passion is seeing people learn to speak and understand my mother tongue, the language I hold so dear. That’s why I’m excited to offer Greek lessons for foreigners with a twist! Think of it as a more relaxed, community-focused way of learning. We’ll get together, chat, practice, and learn in a laid-back environment—where the focus is not just on speaking but truly understanding the language.

I’m strict but fair because I want you to actually learn and progress, not just say a few phrases.

📅 First Meetup – Coffee and Conversation

Our first meetup is set for Tuesday, May 20th, at 6:00 PM in the center of Athens (exact location to be announced soon). This casual coffee gathering is a great opportunity to get to know each other, discuss all the details about the lessons, and answer any questions you might have.

I’ll also allocate a short questionnaire to help divide the groups nicely based on level, availability, and personal preferences, making sure everyone finds the right fit.

This introductory meeting is, of course, free of charge (each participant will only cover the cost of their coffee/drink), so come meet me, the teacher, and connect with other like-minded participants. 

The regular sessions will be €20 for a 2-hour lesson. I will share everything at our meet-up in writing so you have an exact idea of how things will work.

📧 If this sounds like something you’d be interested in, send an email to angie.vourliotaki@gmail.com to RSVP no later than Friday, May 16th. 

Looking forward to helping you master Greek in a fun and engaging way!

From Wednesday, May 21 to Sunday, May 25, the courtyard of TIF Helexpo will transform into a vibrant open-air market bursting with flavors from around the world — and This is Loco is making its festival debut in true Latin street food style!

Straight from the heart of Athens to the heart of Thessaloniki, This is Loco is bringing the heat with mouthwatering tacos and burritos served up in bold, irresistible variations.

Get ready to turn up the flavor and make some noise for the Latin street food corner of TSFF25!

Must-try: The Signature Tacos Pibil — slow-cooked pork, sweet pineapple, smoky guajillo pepper, pickled onions, and fresh cilantro. A flavor explosion you won’t want to miss!
Monday, 28 April 2025 21:19

Tango Acropolis 2025

An Official Tango Competition will take place in Athens from May 22 to 25, as part of the prestigious International Tango Acropolis 2025 festival.

In the heart of culture and art, Athens becomes a vibrant meeting point where the universal language of Tangoconnects dancers from around the world. Participants are invited to experience the magic, energy, and warm hospitality of the city.

The competition is open to both Professional and Amateur dancers in two exciting categories:
  • Tango de Pista

  • Tango Escenario

Cash prizes of up to €2,000 will be awarded to the winning couples in each category.

To register, please CLICK HERE!


Event Program

Competition

  • Thursday, May 22
    Qualifiers
    🕛 12:00–13:30: Registration & Descriptions
    🕝 14:30: Competition Start
    📍 Open to the public | Free Entrance

  • Friday, May 23
    Semifinals
    🕐 13:00
    📍 Open to the public | Free Entrance

  • Saturday, May 24
    Finals
    🕗 20:00
    📍 Open to the public | Entrance €17
    (Ticket includes entry to the Milonga after the finals!)

Seminars
A series of open seminars by top Tango maestros:

Milongas
Three special nights of Milonga:

  • Thursday, May 22
    Opening Practica with Naima & Lucas
    🎶 TJ Dimitris Megalokonomos
    📍 PLYFA Venue
    Event Info

  • Friday, May 23
    Grand Tango Night – Baile de los Maestros
    🎶 TJ Iv Manos
    📍 Sarogleio Megaro
    Event Info

  • Saturday, May 24
    After Finals Celebration Milonga
    🕙 22:00–01:00
    📍 PLYFA Venue

The Athens Singers and orchestra reprise a very well-received performance of Misa a Buenos Aires, by Martín Palmeri.

Mr. Palmeri has created this tango mass by using both his experience as a choir director and his work arranging Argentinian tango music. Starting with the form of a classical Roman Catholic mass, including lyrics in Latin, he adds the rhythms and attributes of tango. The end result is a piece that is both spiritual and exciting. Don't be surprised if you find your foot tapping to the rhythm!

The concert will be held on Friday, 23rd of May at 8:30PM at The War Museum Amphitheatre, conveniently located across from the Evangelismos Metro station.


Monday, 28 April 2025 19:44

Street Wisdom - Athens Walk & Workshop

 
📅 May 23, at 17:30
📍 Outside the Thision subway
 
⁉️ Get up, get out, get clarity and find inspiration and new direction in this wonderful and often (let's face it) disorienting world.
 
❤️ ​Join Elpida Trizi for a 2 hour in-person Street Wisdom Walkshop. Elpida can accommodate both Greek and English participants. For anyone who loves wandering and not only!

What is Street Wisdom?


Street Wisdom is a simple, yet powerful practice that combines mindfulness, neuroscience, and creativity to unlock your imagination and bring clarity.

By turning every street into a source of inspiration, this walkshop takes participants on a journey to calm the mind, spark new ideas, and discover fresh answers to personal questions—all while enjoying the health benefits of walking outdoors.

What happens during the Walkshop?
  • Tune Up: Warm-up micro-walks guided by Elpida to heighten awareness.
  • The Quest: A longer, solo walk where participants "ask the streets" a question and uncover insights.
  • Share: Return as a group to reflect on and discuss discoveries. It’s an easy, enjoyable, and potentially transformative experience! 
Why join?

Tap into creativity and clarity. Reconnect with yourself and your surroundings. It’s completely free!

How to join?

Sign up and commit to showing up. These walkshops are volunteer-led, and hosts dedicate time and energy to create these unique experiences. Your presence ensures the effort is honored.

Stay Streetwise

While Street Wisdom is designed to elevate awareness and inspire, remember to stay mindful of your surroundings as you explore.


Take this opportunity to experience mindfulness on the move.
REGISTER TODAY and let the streets surprise you! 


On Saturday, May 24, from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, This is Loco transforms once again into a lush green haven! 🌱 In collaboration with Sanopwleio, this special pop-up event brings over 200 small indoor plants and 100 unique pots, perfect for finding the ideal green companion for your space.

Come by to meet us, chat about plants, and discover your next leafy roommate over a coffee!

Sanopwleio is a family-run business based in Anixi, Attica, active since 1985. Originally focused on selling animal feed (hence the name “Sanopwleio” from sanos, meaning hay), the business has grown over the years to include seasonal garden plants, small pet supplies, and, most recently, a curated selection of indoor plants and pots. Their latest focus aims to help people bring calm and joy into their everyday lives—especially during challenging times—through the presence of nature at home.

Whether you're a seasoned plant lover or just getting started, this event is the perfect place to get inspired and green up your space. See you there! 🌿✨
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