XpatAthens

Thursday, 14 December 2023 07:00

Greek Winter Wonders: Top 4 Holiday Destinations For A White Holiday

Who says the magic of winter is reserved for the Alps? Greece may be a summer hotspot, but don't be fooled—the magic of a Greek winter is a well-kept secret waiting to be discovered. Beyond the sun-kissed beaches, crystal-clear waters, and summer vibes, the holiday season transforms Greece into a festive, often snowy, wonderland. Here are 4 of the best destinations in Greece to visit this Christmas!

Agios Athanasios

@dimitra_tza

Are you dreaming of a white Christmas? If so, Agios Athanasios in northern Greece is the perfect snowy destination to spend your holidays. Nestled on the western slopes of imposing Mount Vorras, Agios Athanasios is a village of astounding beauty and pure authenticity, famous for its traditional stone-built buildings. Of course, while there, a visit to Kaimaktsalan Ski Center is a must!

Pelion

@koulamelachrinaki

Pelion's heavenly charm enchants visitors all year round, especially during Christmas, when it transforms into a magical winter wonderland. Take a winter stroll through beautiful, snow-capped villages and dense woodlands. Finally, don't forget to pay a visit to the ski resort for some fun and games in the snow.

Elati - Pertouli

@d.tzankatian

Fir trees, snow-covered meadows, the exquisite scent of fireplaces, and sleigh rides at the ski centre... Who could have thought that you don't have to travel to the Swiss Alps to find all that; they are right here in Greece, in Trikala! If you find yourself there, don't forget to pay a visit to the Mill of The Elves, a unique Christmas park in Trikala and definitely a major highlight of the wider area!

Elatochori

@olgadeligiannidou

Set in the deep woods, the village of Elatochori promises to make you forget about the outside world completely and appreciate the beauty of nature. There are various unique boutiques in the village, and you should sample some of the local delights like traditional marmalade and chocolate drinks. Not to mention the nearby ski center, where you can enjoy various winter activities if you are lucky enough to visit when the area is blanketed in snow.

Published in Travel Greece

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Friday, 13 September 2024 07:00

Top 5 Health Benefits Of Greek Coffee

Greek coffee is a strongly brewed coffee served with foam on top and grounds at the bottom of the cup. It is tremendously popular all over Greece, especially in the countryside, where you will most likely find the locals enjoying a sip or two at a local kafeneio.

Greek coffee is much more than just coffee; it is an integral part of the country’s culture. Greeks’ first acquaintance with coffee happened when the country was under Ottoman rule, and the first coffee shop opened around 1475. Since then, the Greeks’ bond with their coffee has been unbreakable!

Luckily for Greeks, it has been proven that Greek coffee has major health benefits. Let’s take a look at some of them, and we are sure that after reading this article, you will find yourselves holding a briki, getting ready to make a cup of ellinikos!

1. Greek Coffee Is High In Antioxidants

Like most coffees, Greek coffee is a potent source of healthy antioxidants. In fact, a double Greek contains about 90-130 mg of antioxidants. Among others, antioxidants prevent premature aging of the cells.

2. Greek Coffee Reduces The Risk Of Certain Diseases

According to a 2011 study, 1-2 cups of Greek coffee a day can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Moreover, Greek coffee is rich in polyphenols, chlorogenic, and caffeic acid, meaning it can help prevent various types of cancer, including esophageal and liver cancer. Last but not least, it is associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes.

3. Greek Coffee Promotes Mental Well-Being

Drinking coffee, in general, can act as a shield against certain neurological diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease. Studies have also shown that coffee intake can reduce the risk of stroke, Parkinson's disease, and dementia. Based on research conducted on the inhabitants of Ikaria, drinking a cup of Greek coffee, in particular, contributes to fewer neurological dysfunctions and promotes longevity.

4. Greek Coffee Increases Metabolism

Drinking a cup of Greek coffee after a meal can activate your metabolism and improve your digestion. The caffeine it contains increases the intestine's motility, causing food to move through the gastrointestinal tract more quickly, hastening the digestion process.

5. Greek Coffee Contributes To Weight Loss

Greek coffee is traditionally enjoyed black, without the addition of sugar or milk, due to its rich flavor and texture. A cup of black Greek coffee has almost zero calories, making it perfectly suitable for those on diet. Also, its ingredients are poor in carbohydrates and fats.

Published in Greek Food & Diet

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Saturday, 29 July 2023 20:28

Registration is now open for the Navarino Challenge 2023

Navarino Challenge returns for its 11th year, on October 13-15, 2023, at Costa Navarino and Pylos.

This year, more than 40 sports activities will take place within three days at the hotels W Costa Navarino and The Westin Resort Costa Navarino.

Navarino Challenge Marathon by That Gorilla Brand for the first time

For the first time in the event’s history, the Navarino Challenge Marathon by That Gorilla Brand will be held, with participants having the opportunity to cross the beach of Voidokilia. At the same time, the participants in the Navarino Challenge Half Marathon by That Gorilla Brand will also have the chance to cross the most famous beach of Messinia and one of the most beautiful in the world. With its unique shape outlining the Greek letter omega (Ω), Voidokilia is the ideal destination for anyone who wants to test his strength in running. The peculiar name of this enchanting location, Voidokoilia (lit. ‘ox-belly’), can be traced back to an ancient myth about Hermes, who stole the oxen of his brother, Apollo, and hid them in a cave above the beach. Feeling remorse, Hermes gave Apollo a lyre made from a sea turtle’s shell, which lays its eggs in the bay to this day. The event offers participants the opportunity to run the 42km Marathon and the top Greek Half-Marathon of 21.1km, together with the Greek-American ambassador of Greek Tourism, the ultramarathoner Constantine “Dean” Karnazes. These are the only trail running races that combine sand, soil, and asphalt.

At the same time, participants can run the magnificent 10km route powered by Miele, next to the sea, or the 5km route, among centuries-old olive trees, which can even be completed with dynamic walking. On the same day, a 1km route will be held for young people 9 to 14 years old and a 1km route for children up to 8 years old.

Register for the running activities

Runners can now participate in the 42km, 21.1km, 10km, 5km, and 1km routes. The children’s race is held with free participation. Register through the special form available at the following link.

We run for a good cause

All the proceeds from the Marathon race, as well as 50% of the proceeds from all the other running routes, will be donated through the initiative “That Gorilla Brand's Adventures For A Cause”, by the Grand Sponsor That Gorilla Brand, the world's biggest lifestyle brand dedicated to the protection of mountain gorillas, to improve sanitation facilities in Uganda. Out of a total of 16 schools located around the edges of the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (BNIP) and close to habitats of mountain gorillas, only three meet the hygiene standards for children and teachers. The remaining 13 schools require significant financial and humanitarian aid.

Watch the video with some highlights from the Navarino Challenge running activities here: https://youtu.be/enAd28vVfA8

The hospitality of Messinia

Messinia will host for one more year the top sports tourism celebration. After all, Messinians are renowned for their hospitality (‘filoxenia’ in Greek). Homer tells the story thus: searching for his father Odysseus, Telemachus, accompanied by the Goddess Athina in mortal guise, came ashore at night in Voidokilia, which was also the port of ancient Pylos, to ask King Nestor of his father Ulysses' whereabouts. The King was holding a feast with his sons on the sand and gave the travelers the best cuts of meat and his best wine. Only after they were fed and rested did he ask them who they were and what was the purpose of their visit. This is the first written account of hospitality in the Western world, and it’s in Homer’s Odyssey.

Book your accommodation package now

Enjoy a weekend full of outdoor wellness activities for people of all ages. Book now the event’s accommodation package with breakfast and live this year’s unique sports and cultural experience. For more information on accommodation packages at the full of energy W Costa Navarino and the luxurious The Westin Resort Costa Navarino, you may send your email to the booking(at)navarinochallenge.com or call Vita N Travel at +30 210 3249070. Check the accommodation packages here.

The event’s schedule includes more than 40 sports activities that will take place at the hotels W Costa Navarino and The Westin Resort Costa Navarino.

This year, in addition to running, you will find activities such as: a basketball clinic and 4on4 basketball tournament, beach volleyball tournaments, tennis (tournaments, clinic, and demonstration), beachathlon, pilates, climbing, bike tour at Voidokolia, golf, boxing, CrossFit, yoga, high-intensity training, spinning, water sports and others that will be announced in the coming days.

That Gorilla Brand is the event’s Grand Sponsor.

Miele is the Official Sponsor.

Europa is the Official Supporter.

Luanvi is the Official Sports Supplier.

SIXT, member of the MOTODYNAMICS Group, is the Premium Mobility Partner.

Costa Navarino and the hotels W Costa Navarino, The Westin Resort Costa Navarino, and The Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort, are the Official Hospitality Sponsors.

Poseidonia Restaurant, Karalis Beach Hotel, Pilia Express, Phee, Karalis City Hotel & Spa, and Zoe Seaside Resort are the event’s Partners.

Trace ‘n Chase is the Sports Memorabilia Partner.

Kois Optics are the event’s Official Optics Partner.

Messinian Spa is the Official Beauty Partner.

SKAI is the Premium TV Partner.

Deree - The American College of Greece is the Educational Partner.

FitnessArt, F45 Barrio Salamanca, Moraitis Watersports, Mouratoglou Tennis Center – Costa Navarino, Navarino Golf Academy, Navarino Outdoors, Pilates by Mandy, Red Swim Academy, Swim O’ Clock, Triantafyllidis Beach Arena are the event’s Athletic Partners.

Navarino Challenge is Assisted by Vita N Travel and Pylos Association of Enterprises for Tourism Development.

The event has joined the Greek actions of the #BeactiveHellas 2023 program of the European Commission and is held under the auspices of the General Secretariat of Sports.

The event is organized by ActiveMedia Group, which is also responsible for the event’s Sports Production.

More information on this year’s activities will be announced in the coming weeks.

#navarinochallenge #costanavarino #sportsunitespeople #eatwell #runwell #livewell

Published in Local News

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Thursday, 27 June 2024 23:40

Unlocking Your Inner Entrepreneur: How Holidays In Greece Can Fuel Your Inspiration

Summer is the ideal time to relax, rejuvenate, and find inspiration for your entrepreneurial dreams. Greece, with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, offers the perfect setting to unlock your inner entrepreneur and fuel your creative ambitions. Here’s how you can make the most of your holiday in Greece to inspire and drive your entrepreneurial journey.

1. Immersing in Natural Beauty

The Inspiration of the Greek Islands

The Greek islands, provide a serene backdrop that can help clear your mind and spark new ideas. Spending time in nature, whether it's on a tranquil beach or a scenic hike, allows you to step back from your daily routine, providing the mental space needed for creative thinking and problem-solving.

The Tranquility of the Mainland

For those who prefer the mountains or quieter mainland regions, places like the Peloponnese and the Pindus Mountains offer peaceful environments that are perfect for reflection. The quiet solitude of these areas can help you connect with your inner thoughts and generate innovative business ideas.

2. Drawing Lessons from History

Ancient Sites as Catalysts for Modern Ideas

Greece’s rich history and ancient sites are treasure troves of wisdom and inspiration. Visiting landmarks such as the Acropolis, the Temple of Apollo at Delphi, or the ancient theater of Epidaurus can provide insights into resilience, leadership, and strategic thinking. Reflecting on the achievements of ancient civilizations can inspire modern entrepreneurial strategies and visions.

Reading Ancient Philosophers

Take a book by an ancient Greek philosopher to the beach or a quiet terrace. As you read the words of Plato, or Aristotle, gaze at the ocean and its infinite fluidity, reflecting on how their timeless wisdom can be applied to your modern-day challenges. The depth of their thoughts can unlock new perspectives and inspire profound insights into your business and personal life.

Museums and Cultural Heritage

Exploring museums like the National Archaeological Museum in Athens or the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion in Crete offers a deep dive into Greece’s cultural heritage. The stories and artifacts from different eras highlight human ingenuity and adaptability, qualities that are essential for any entrepreneur. Let the creativity and innovation of the past fuel your own entrepreneurial spirit.

3. Networking with Local Entrepreneurs

Engaging with Greece's Startup Scene

Greece is home to a vibrant community of startups and innovative businesses. Attending local business events, workshops, and networking sessions can provide valuable opportunities to connect with like-minded entrepreneurs. Sharing experiences and learning from local success stories can offer new perspectives and practical advice for your own ventures.

Learning from Local Business Practices

Greek businesses, whether they are traditional family-owned enterprises or modern tech startups, offer unique insights into customer service, product development, and market adaptation. Observing and engaging with these businesses can provide lessons that you can apply to your entrepreneurial journey.

4. Cultivating Creativity

Artistic & Culinary Exploration

Greece’s rich artistic heritage and culinary traditions are perfect for sparking creativity. Visit local art galleries, attend cultural festivals, or take part in a cooking class to immerse yourself in Greek culture. The creativity you encounter in these activities can inspire innovative thinking and new business ideas.

Embracing the Greek Way of Life

Greek culture emphasizes a balanced lifestyle, valuing both hard work and leisure. Embrace this approach by taking time to relax, socialize, and enjoy life. This balance can lead to better mental clarity, increased creativity, and improved problem-solving abilities.

5. Rejuvenating Your Mind & Body

Wellness Retreats & Relaxation

Greece offers numerous wellness retreats, spas, and yoga centers where you can rejuvenate both your mind and body. Taking time to relax and recharge is essential for maintaining the energy and motivation needed for entrepreneurial success. Wellness activities can help clear mental blockages and provide a fresh perspective on your goals.

Outdoor Adventures

Engaging in outdoor activities, such as hiking, sailing, or diving, not only boosts your physical health but also stimulates your mind. The sense of adventure and exploration can translate into a more dynamic and innovative approach to your business ventures.

Published in Tips & Advice

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Friday, 05 December 2025 14:06

Queen Size Bed For Sale

Nearly new High quality Queen size bed for sale, measuring 200cm x 160cm and fully Manufactured in Greece by Greco Strom. Reluctantly selling due to re-location. Details: High quality solid bedframe with material headboard, Deep semi-firm, hypoallegenic mattress (also nearly new), Duvet, cover and pillows included (also nearly new and manufactured in Greece), Asking price: €685 (new price was €1,485)

Other items for sale: 1950s dining table; Solid wooden bathroom mirror; Wooden garden table.

Make an offer. Must be collected from Kypseli

Published in Items For Sale

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Thursday, 05 February 2015 13:21

My Week in Athens… Sep 27

I can’t believe it’s almost October… Seriously , it’s three months until Christmas! But this week I notice that ‘smell’ of autumn – and I don’t mind one bit. Strikes? Yup. Rain? Yup. Cooler weather? Yup. Am I bothered? Nope.

Turns out I stayed close to home most of the past week. My little Nespresso machine had a good workout – it was a week of catching up with friends, and ‘hangin out’.

At one point, the downstairs buzzer rang. When I opened the door, I was surprised to see my Greek aunt standing in front of me. She had once again driven the hour-long journey from the village, and now stood in front of me with a big smile and her hands full of bags. I said “Wow! What are you doing here?!” She replied as she pushed past me into the kitchen, “Since you don’t come to the village to eat, I brought the food to you! Now, where are your plates?”

We had a really nice meal together, chatted about this or that, (she!) washed the dishes (after literally pushing me out of the kitchen), and off she went…

This is a true story. It really made my day – and I know it really made her day too. Was nice to catch up with everyone this week...

P.S. Uninvited guests with food are welcome, anytime. ;)

Until next week,

Jack

In this weekly space, keep up with ‘Jack’ as he navigates daily life in Athens… Anecdotes, stories, hits & misses, the good, the bad and, well, the rest…

Published in My Week In Athens

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Tuesday, 12 February 2019 07:00

Stinking Bishop: The Gastropub Named After A Smelly Cheese

Named after a smelly British cheese, Stinking Bishop is one of the most unique bars/gastropubs in Athens. Located in the upscale Kolonaki area, Stinking Bishop is mostly frequented by local residents and people who work nearby. Its decoration is warm and welcoming, and its small size accentuates the sense of intimacy–there’s only 3 tables and a long counter so make sure to book your table well in advance.

Expect to try some carefully selected cheeses from Greece, France, Holland and England, delicious cold cuts, as well as a few salads and tasty main courses.

Stinking Bishop offers an extensive wine list of approximately 50 different labels, several of which are also served by the glass. The friendly and courteous staff will help you pair your food with the ideal wine!

Address: 36 Loukianou & Spefsippou, 106 75 Kolonaki, Athens
Telephone: 213 0263656

Image Credit: Stinking Bishop

Published in Pubs, Bars & Cafes

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Wednesday, 18 February 2015 16:05

ICAP: Women in Greece Are Becoming More Successful

We may be living in an era where real equality between men and women has yet to be achieved, however a recent research by ICAP showed some positive signs. According to a report from Greek newspaper “Ta Nea”, the number of women working in management positions at Greek companies rose to 21% in 2013 from 19% in 2012, noted the research which is conducted annually by ICAP and published in the “Leading Women in Business”.

The research was presented during an event entitled “High Heels on High Hills” organized by ICAP Group for the second consecutive year. According to ICAP Group’s CEO Nikitas Konstantellos, Greek companies should utilize female staff and establish clear objectives. This year’s event included three thematic sections.

The first section analyzed the best practices followed by three companies in Greece: EMC Hellas, Xerox Hellas and Microsoft Hellas, on facilitating the advancement of women in business.

To read more, please visit greekreporter.com

By Ioanna Zikakou

Published in Local News

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Friday, 20 February 2015 20:23

Skordalia - The Greek Garlic Dip

Skordalia, the Greek garlic dip, belongs to the grand tradition of Mediterranean garlic pastes and like them, it is almost never served alone; instead, it plays an accompanying role to fried fish and seafood or to classics like boiled beets.

While there are as many methods for frying salt cod as there are cooks who fry it, skordalia variations tend to follow a regional vein. I have always been impressed by the wealth of regional expressions when it comes to this simple peasant dish, as well as to the ritual that often goes into its preparation.

Garlic, olive oil, and salt are the constants in all Greek skordalia recipes, but the base, acid, and consistency vary from place to place. Dried bread, boiled potatoes, and nuts, especially almonds, pine nuts or walnuts, may all be used as the base of this pungent specialty, either alone or together with stale bread or potatoes. One recipe, from the Peloponnese, calls for starchy chestnuts. Fresh lemon juice, fish stock or broth, and vinegar are the liquids that help balance the final flavors. At least one version, a traditional recipe of the Asia Minor Greeks, calls for pistachios; the skordalia of Nea Marmara in Halkidiki is made with feta and mint; one delicious, obscure recipe popular in the traditional shepherd’s cooking of the Greeks who came to Greece from the Black Sea, is made with almonds, yogurt and vinegar.

Connoisseurs of skordalia know that a certain ritual is part and practice of its preparation. I will never forget once walking in on an old caterer friend who was making skordalia for a party—by hand, potato by potato, drop by drop of olive oil, pinch by pinch of salt, in a mortar, pounding each potato with the pestle with zenlike rhythm. To this day, the mortar and pestle are the best tools for making skordalia because they allow for the control of speed with which one breaks down the starch in the potatoes or bread that most commonly make up the base. A food processor’s blade is too swift and violent and results in a gummy skordalia. Unless the potatoes are cold, which is the advice of the family fry master, who, between dipping chunks of salt cod in his secret batter and frying them with the patience of Jove, he also sometimes takes a stand near the mixer, making the dish in question. Cold potatoes don’t break down as easily, it turns out, as hot ones. But they also don’t absorb oil as easily.

Aliada

In the Ionian islands, skordalia is called aliada, clearly an Italian sounding word and once that evinces vincing the influence that 200 hundred or so years of Venetian administration over these islands brought to their cookery.

Perhaps nowhere is the certainty of ritual more obvious than in the old cooks of Cephalonia, where the island’s aliada is made with rules developed over centuries. Mortar and pestle are de rigueur, the vessel and mechanism by which the first steps in the making of skordalia are taken as the cook pounds garlic cloves and salt to a smooth paste. In a separate plate, traditionally made of wood or fired clay, she mashes boiled potatoes either with the pestle or with a fist-sized smooth stone. A pot nearby contains salt cod that’s been soaked and is now simmering to further desalt it. Its broth provides the gustatory undertones and depth of flavor in the final aliada and is added to the garlic and salt, to be followed by a few spoonfuls of partially mashed potatoes. Slowly, step by step and increment by increment, each of these ingredients is wedded to the final, smooth and silky potato-based aliada which is partnered with crispy fried salt cod or other small, fried fish.

By Diane Kochilas

dianekochilas.com

Published in Greek Food & Diet

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Wednesday, 20 May 2015 19:53

Greece To Be Shown "All Over" The World For The Second Year

Greek culture, products and social entrepreneurship will be showcased all around the world from May 22 until May 31 through the 2nd “Greece All Over” International Festival.

“This is a one-week celebration of Hellenism in various countries around the world to demonstrate that Greeks can and want to work together”, organizer Ellada Pantou (Greece All Over) said in an announcement.

The “Greece All Over” festival is a collaborative celebration filled with music, poetry, dance, art exhibitions, gastronomy, product presentations, charitable actions and more which will take place in Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Germany, Greece, Ireland, China, Malaysia, Norway and The Netherlands.

To read more, please visit Greek Travel Pages.

Published in Greece In The News

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