XpatAthens
Tuesday, 26 July 2016 07:00
A Hopeful Comeback For Endangered Sea Turtles & Seals In Greece
Long term protection has paid off in Greece after this year marked a preservation status improvement of the Caretta Caretta Sea Turtle and the Mediterranean Monk Seal in the global Red List of Threatened Species of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN)!
About the Caretta Caretta Sea Turtle
The nesting season of marine turtles has already started in the Mediterranean and the world’s largest hard-shelled turtle, the endangered loggerhead, also known as the Caretta caretta, is enjoying a new lease on life in Greece’s shores, which are among the most popular nesting sites along the Mediterranean, with more than 3,000 nests per year.
More than 500 nests were already identified on the Ionian island of Zakynthos, the largest nesting ground in the Mediterranean, during a survey carried out early last month by the Sea Turtle Protection Society of Greece (Archelon) on the beaches of the National Marine Park of Zakynthos, making 2016 one of the best years in a decade. A following survey by Archelon found that the number of nests in Southern Kyparissiakos Bay in the western Peloponnese, the second largest nesting area in the Mediterranean, already surpassed the 1,000 mark for 2016.
Caretta caretta recently changed its category in the IUCN’s Red List of threatened species, from ‘endangered’ which had been assigned since 1996, to ‘vulnerable.’ In addition, its Mediterranean population is now listed as ‘least concern.’ This new status means that the species is not in danger of extinction in the near future on the condition that their current status remains the same.
The new listing of Caretta caretta in the Mediterranean actually reflects the success of all the important conservation actions that take place all these years in Greece, which must continue on by international and local groups.
About the Mediterranean Monk Seal (Monachus monachus)
After 25 years of systematic efforts to preserve the species, the first results are now starting to show and the IUCN preservation status for the Mediterranean monk seal dropped down one category in the endangered species list, from ‘critically endangered’ to ‘endangered’, according to a Hellenic Society for the Study & Protection of the Monk Seal (MOm) announcement earlier this year.
Experts from around the world gathered and evaluated the most recent data and found positive developments in at least three of the four main regions of the monk seal's range, among them Greece.
What seems to be playing a significant role in the betterment of the species’ status is the positive attitude by the majority of the citizens, as a result of information, environmental education, and general awareness. However, the danger of the species’ extinction has not been eliminated as the populations remain small and fragile while most of the main threats for the species remain substantial, such as the habitat degradation and competition with human fishing.
Mediterranean monk seals are considered one of the world’s most threatened marine mammals. Once widespread throughout the Mediterranean, the Black Sea and the northern coast of Africa, their numbers have declined dramatically for most of the twentieth century.
To read this article in full, please visit: Greek News Agenda
To read this article in full, please visit: Greek News Agenda
Published in
Greece In The News
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Monday, 17 September 2018 07:00
To Eidikon - An Old School Eatery
At the corner of Psaron and Salaminos streets, in a quiet neighborhood of Piraeus, there’s a place that looks straight out of a 1960s Greek black-and-white movie. Its name, eidikon, means “special,” and it’s the last of its kind: a bakalotaverna, or grocery store and eatery, all in one.
The shop opened in 1920, when the three Papakonstantinou brothers from Gardiki, an impoverished village near Trikala in central Greece, came to Athens in search of better prospects. The building was the tallest in the area. It had large windows, and in good weather, one could even see the sea on the horizon.
The interior, with its dark wooden paneling, was obviously built to last. The shelves and old refrigerator cases are now covered with vintage 60s products, bric-a-brac and numerous photographs of the current owner, Apostolos Papakonstantinou, and his forebears. Large frames display the good times of the past, with the celebrities that were (and still are) among the loyal clientele.
To read this article in full, please visit: Culinary Backstreets
To read this article in full, please visit: Culinary Backstreets
Published in
Restaurants In Athens
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Monday, 12 December 2016 07:00
Athens Observatory Continues Mars Observation With National Geographic
The National Observatory of Athens on Wednesday announced the continuation of its collaboration with the “National Geographic” for the observation of Mars through telescopes, which will be used in the “Mars” documentary series.
At the Athens Observatory Visitor’s center, guests can observe the sky using the historic Doridis telescope on the Pnyx Hill, as well as through two portable telescopes that are available for the public, provided weather conditions allow.
To read this article in full, please visit: Greek Reporter
Published in
Local News
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Sunday, 16 September 2018 12:41
Sophie Ravier – From PR Girl In France To Yoga Mama In Greece
Sophie left her high-flying PR career in Paris to settle on her paradise island Sifnos from where she set up The Yoga Mama Club – a boutique event company organizing yoga retreats in Greece and across Europe.
5 Things To Know About Sophie Ravier
- Relentlessly optimistic
- Spiritual junkie
- Happy Gypsy
- Yoga Mama
- Endless wonderer about life
Back in 2013 though, something changed. On paper my life was perfect; glamorous meetings across the globe, beautiful events, great money, a rewarding boss and company, cool friends and living in Paris! Inside me however, I was bored and felt totally empty. Was this my life for the rest of my life?
The process was about a full year of endless boredom and feeling pretty depressed until I decided to follow the Eat-Pray-Love plan, wondering if indeed, you can follow your guts? The question left for me was "where do I go?". I was supposed to head to Buenos Aires but as life has its own way of leading you, my plans got re-arranged and I ended up visiting Sifnos. As I stayed for some time on the island and started chatting away with locals there, I had to embrace the fact this was where I really belonged.
It didn't make any sense and it was very irrational. People around me questioned my choice, as I truly had no idea what I was going to do on a tiny Greek island, disconnected from all.
GET €100 discount on Sophie’s Yoga Mama Retreat 30 Sept – 6 Oct 2018 in Sifnos.
Use the discount code: XPATATHENS. For more info and bookings – click here.
Published in
People
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Monday, 20 May 2019 07:00
VAT Reduction Comes Into Effect
Thousands of food products will be approximately 9% cheaper following the VAT reduction that came into effect today. Consumers will benefit from the slight price reduction of about 56 product categories. Among others, VAT will come down to 13% from 24% in the following foodstuffs:
1. Bread, pitta bread, rusks, salted crackers
2. Salt, vinegar, lemon, and refrigerated bouillon
3. Salted & smoked fish and fish roe.
4. Biscuits, cookies, chocolate, spoon sweets, peanut butter, chocolate spreads, ice cream, and others.
5. Sweeteners
6. Cold deserts such as puddings, rice puddings, jellos and others.
7. Cereals (excluding oats)
8. Fresh and frozen dough & fyllo products
9. Coffee and teas
10. Jams and preserves
11. Tomato sauces and puree
12. Condiments
13. Fruits and vegetables
14. Dried fruits and nuts
15. Margarine and vegetable oils
16. Juice
17. Ready-made packaged meals
18. Frozen potatoes
Furthermore, VAT will be reduced to 6% from 13% on electricity and gas bills. Restaurant and cafeteria meals are also subject to VAT reduction from 24% to 13%, excluding drinks.
Published in
Local News
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Friday, 08 November 2019 11:52
How The Marathon Race And Other Races Will Affect Traffic Over The Weekend
The Greek police has announced the schedule of the traffic regulations and street shutdowns that will take place in the Marathon area and central Athens on the occasion of the annual Authentic Marathon race and other smaller races on Saturday, November 9 and Sunday, November 10.
On Saturday, November 9, between 17.00-19.00, a 10km race will take place from Vassilissis Sofias Ave near Syntagma Square to the Panathenaic Stadium; some of the streets it will pass through include Panepistimiou, Messoghion, Fidippidou and Irodou Attikou. On Sunday, November 10, between 09.00-17.45, the 37th Authentic Marathon route will follow Marathonos Avenue to the Panathenaic Stadium via Messoghion Ave, Michalakopoulou Ave, Vassilissis Sofias Ave, and Irodou Attikou, among others.
Other races that will start at Vassilissis Sofias in Syntagma and finish at the Panathenaic Stadium on Sunday are:
08.00-10.00: 5km road race, through the streets of Panepistimiou, Akadimias, the NIMITS hospital area.
10.05-10.20: Special Olympics Hellas Fun Run 1200m. Starts from Vassilissis Sofias Avenue outside Greek Parliament Finishes inside the Panathenaic Stadium.
10.20-10.40: Kids' Fun Run 1200m. Starts from Vas. Sofias Avenue outside Greek Parliament. Finishes inside the Panathenaic Stadium.
10.35-11.00: Team Road Race ERGO 3km. Starts from Vas. Amalias Ave. in front of Ippokratio Hospital. Finishes inside the Panathenaic Stadium.
In addition, short children's races will be held by local municipalities along the Marathon towns. In general, traffic restrictions will be introduced early on Saturday morning and stay in place, by location, until late afternoon on Sunday.
In Athens, in particular, vehicles will not be allowed to park on several streets until as late as 20:30. Please also note that bicycle riders and pedestrians are not allowed on the streets runners will use, and they will also not allowed to cross these streets during the race.
For further information and a detailed schedule of traffic restrictions, please visit: Hellenic Police (Greek Only)
Source: AMNA
Published in
Local News
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Monday, 09 March 2020 12:40
Athina Luxury Suites ~ The Place To Be In Santorini
Athina Luxury Suites hotel is designed for discerning guests looking for a perfect combination of serenity and luxury on the island of dreams, Santorini, Greece.
Each one of the perfectly designed suites provides its own unique set of super-luxury amenities, astonishing caldera views and the top service you deserve while on vacations.
Additionally, an unforgettable dining experience awaits you at Esperisma bar-restaurant, where you may enjoy Mediterranean and Greek cuisine inspired by the freshest local ingredients available. Note that Esperisma Bar-Restaurant was this year’s winner of Luxury Lifestyle Awards in the category of Luxury Restaurant in Greece.
Moreover, you may experience the ultimate rejuvenation of body and soul in the brand-new Aphrodite’s spa, while you can spend some time relaxing with your refreshing cocktail in the fully renovated new infinity heated swimming pool with a pool bar, admiring the perfect view to the Caldera of Santorini.
Last but not least, Athina Luxury Suites is the perfect setting for your special day too: Imagine your wedding or honeymoon in Santorini with the caldera and volcano as a backdrop... In the courtyards of the island’s churches and on our terrace, Athina Luxury Suites offers couples a real-life fairytale wedding venue each year.
With all that being said it wasn't, of course, a coincidence that Athina Luxury Suites with its breathtaking views and world-class services in Fira was awarded as the Best Wedding Hotel in Europe, Best Destination Wedding Hotel in Greece and Best Romantic Hotel in Greece by the Haute Grandeur Global Awards on October 19th, 2019 at The St Regis, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Athina Luxury Suites also triumphed at the World Luxury Hotel Awards winning the title of the Best Luxury Honeymoon Hotel in Europe, at the 13th Annual World Luxury Hotel Awards ceremony held on October 12th, 2019, at the Arctic Tree House Hotel, in Finland.
Looking for an unforgettable stay in Santorini? Search no more as you have already found Athina Luxury Suites!
Looking for an unforgettable stay in Santorini? Search no more as you have already found Athina Luxury Suites!
Published in
Travel Greece
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Wednesday, 11 August 2021 07:00
Athens Unpacked Episode 7 - Birth & Death The Athenian Way
“Almost anywhere you go in the capital, there’s a church nearby,” says Sofka Zinovieff in this seventh episode of Athens Unpacked that is literally a matter of life and death.
Get ready to visit the city’s finest and most famous graveyard - the final resting ground for a pantheon of modern Greek heroes; walk down the street of Eternal Repose; and address the oily business of baptism, Greek-style. You’ll also encounter the confectionary treat Athenians turn to remember their dead; learn about the must-have accessory newborn babies wear to ward off misfortune and find out why Greeks shout everyone else on their own birthdays.
Bestselling writer and former anthropologist, Sofka Zinovieff, embarks on a quest to uncover the true essence of her adopted home, in all its layers and mysteries. Discover how Athenians feel about their own architecture, how tragedy and trauma have flavored the city’s cuisine, why Athens has always been a “15-minute city”, and much, much more.
Produced by Pod.gr, for This is Athens, tune in each fortnight and get ready to capture the seductive soul of Athens!
This is Athens is the official guide to this captivating city of ancient energies and booming urban culture. Compiled by a team of specialist local writers, This is Athens brings you an authentic and intimate portrait of a living Athens beyond the guidebooks – along with daily curated listings of all the best events and great weekend inspiration all-year round. From must-know neighbourhoods and emerging art hubs to gourmet hotspots, cool shopping, and the buzziest bars, This is Athens will help you to get the most out of living in Athens!
Thank you This is Athens for your contribution as an XpatAthens Partner.
Published in
City Discovery
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Thursday, 20 January 2022 15:10
No Rental Fee On Your Next Event At Hard Rock Café Athens
From birthdays and baptisms to anniversaries and corporate parties, there is no event too big or too small for the Hard Rock to handle!
If you have a special event coming up, the Hard Rock Cafe Athens - with its one-of-a-kind rock star treatment - will take your event from ordinary to extraordinary! Keep reading to take advantage of a very special offer...
If you have a special event coming up, the Hard Rock Cafe Athens - with its one-of-a-kind rock star treatment - will take your event from ordinary to extraordinary! Keep reading to take advantage of a very special offer...
Book your upcoming event at their dedicated events space on the top floor, featuring a beautiful internal atrium area with a sliding rooftop.
The Hard Rock Cafe promises guests an exceptional event experience with high-quality food, an extensive award-winning drinks menu, and impeccable, fully-customized services - all of everything that has made it a global brand sensation.
The Hard Rock Cafe Athens is so much more than just a restaurant, it's a place to celebrate; a place to make unforgettable memories, and a place to host your very special occasions in 2022.
Get in touch here to start planning your next event.
Use the below-booking code and enjoy an exclusive "No Rental Fee"
discount on your next event - pay only for your food & drinks.
The offer is available until December 31st, 2022.
discount on your next event - pay only for your food & drinks.
The offer is available until December 31st, 2022.
"NRF2022"
Published in
Local News
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Thursday, 12 September 2024 13:54
September: Your Fresh Start to Achieve New Goals!
The arrival of September often feels like a second chance at a fresh start, much like the beginning of a new year. As the summer fades and routines resume, it's the perfect time to reflect on what we want to achieve, set new goals, and make promises to ourselves that this time, we’ll see them through. Even if our resolutions from January didn’t last past the first few weeks, September offers us an opportunity to recalibrate and refocus.
Goals give us direction and a sense of purpose. They’re like a compass guiding us through times when we might feel a bit lost or uncertain. When we have goals, the fear of not knowing what comes next is replaced by a sense of confidence and clarity. We know who we are, what we’re working toward, and where we’re going. Instead of wandering aimlessly, we walk with purpose. So, let’s explore why setting goals, especially now in September, can have a lasting impact.
September Goals Keep Us Motivated
One of the biggest challenges we face throughout the year is losing our momentum. How many times have we felt the urge to change something, but over time, our motivation faded, and we abandoned our plans? Often, it’s because we don’t have a strong enough reason driving us forward. September is a great moment to reignite that inner motivation. Setting fresh goals keeps our desired outcome in mind, reminding us why we’re working toward something and increasing our chances of success.
Goals Help Us Stay Focused Amid the Hustle of Fall
As we transition back to busier schedules in the fall—whether it’s work, school, or personal commitments—it's easy to get distracted or overwhelmed. But having a clear goal is like having a map that keeps us on track. Take finances, for example. We might plan to save more, but distractions in the form of tempting purchases can lead us astray. However, when there’s a clear purpose behind our savings, like planning a holiday trip or investing in something meaningful, it becomes easier to stay focused.
Goals Bring Stability as We Prepare for the End of the Year
As we head toward the final months of the year, the sense of uncertainty can grow. The end-of-year deadlines loom, and the unpredictable nature of life often makes it hard to plan too far ahead. That’s why setting goals in September can be so powerful. Even if the world around us feels chaotic, having clear goals helps us stay grounded and make decisions with purpose, bringing us much-needed stability.
Achieving Our September Goals Builds Confidence for the Future
There’s something incredibly satisfying about accomplishing what we set out to do, and that feeling becomes even more important as we near the end of the year. Achieving our September goals fills us with a renewed sense of hope and boosts our confidence. It reminds us that we’re capable of great things, and that once we tackle one goal, the rest don’t seem so impossible.
So, as we step into September, let's embrace this moment as a chance to reset and refocus. It’s not just about the destination—enjoy the journey that brings us closer to the life we want to create. Remember, the things we regret most are often the ones we never tried, the goals we abandoned when we thought we couldn’t make it. This September, let’s turn our dreams into reality instead of letting them fade away.
Published in
Mind
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