XpatAthens
Tuesday, 26 June 2018 08:31
The Vibrant City Of Athens
As a 24-year old, Charly came to Athens for the first time, unaware that the city would be the setting for a significant period of growth and discovery. As Charly puts it, "There are places we live and places we visit, and then there are the other places. Places we return to, where we put down roots, but not strong enough roots to hold us — places that change us, that we haunt and are haunted by."
Now 12 years later, Charly is back in Athens visiting her old hang-outs, seeing old friends whom she met the first time she was here, and admiring Athens for what it has become, "one of the most vibrant and significant cultural capitals."
Charly writes from her first trip to Athens, "After a week or so bouncing around the Cyclades, I arrived in Athens, planning to stay only a few days before moving on. People had told me the city was ugly and congested, basically a stopover, yet I remember the first romance of its winding, cracked stone alleyways overgrown with jasmine creepers and bitter orange trees, the roving packs of stray dogs, cats sunning on ruins, the smell of leather, honeysuckle and dust.
"One night I wandered into Kinky Bar, where the D.J. was playing obscure postpunk records I happened to love. I drank until I was brave enough to approach him. He introduced me to his friends — Athenians, a bit older than I was — and at the end of the night, they did something I couldn’t imagine happening back home: They invited me to move in with them."
To read this article in full, please visit: The New York Times
Published in
Greece In The News
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Friday, 30 July 2021 07:00
3 Wonderful Under The Radar Greek Destinations
If you are planning on going on a Greek vacation this summer, take our advise and skip the tourist flocked destinations and head to some of Greece's most beautiful hidden treasures. There, not only will you discover a more authentic side of Greece, but you will get the chance to scratch beneath the surface and explore Greece like a discerning traveler! Here are 3 of our favorite under the radar Greek destinations.
1. Nafplio
Nafplio is a beautiful coastal town in the Argolic Gulf in northern Peloponnese. You'll be surprised to discover that Nafplio is a distinctive town with great attractions and a unique aesthetic. As the first capital of modern Greece, it boasts beautiful neoclassical buildings, unique Venetian architecture, and fascinating history. This lively provincial town will definitely make you want to visit over and over again.
2. Corinth
About 80 kilometers west of Athens, Corinth is known for the Temple of Apollo and the outstanding Corinth Canal. Apart from its great archaeological museum Corinth and significant ancient remains, Corinth is an ideal place from which to set out to discover the area's many beaches, unique mountain villages, and the resort town of Loutraki with its world-famous thermal springs and casino.
3. Meteora
Literally meaning suspended in the air, Meteora is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most dramatic landscapes in the world. Travel to Meteora and you'll learn all about the astonishing rock formations and discover some of the most breathtaking and distinctive monasteries in all of Greece. Religious or not, Meteora is an awe-inspiring destination that will surely impress you with its raw natural beauty and striking monasteries.
Published in
Travel Greece
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Monday, 11 November 2019 07:00
A Short Guide To The Athens Marathon
In 490 BC the Persians are defeated at the Battle of Marathon, despite outnumbering the Athenians four to one. Pheidippides an Athenian messenger is sent to Athens, 42km away, to deliver the victorious news. Upon his arrival, Pheidippides manages to utter the joyful words, νικῶμεν (nikomen)—“we have won”—and then collapses. Most historical accounts suggest that he died there and then from exhaustion. This could be a romanticized version of the events; though to be fair, Pheidippides had also just legged it 240km from Athens to Sparta and back again to ask for help when the Persian fleet landed in a bay near the town of Marathon.
Today, more than 1,500 marathon races are organized around the world. However, Greece is where it all began; at the first modern Olympic Games that were held in Athens in 1896, the 42km race from Marathon to Athens was one of the defining events of the new Olympic era, a way of reviving the ancient glory of Greece. Fittingly, a Greek water-carrier, Spyridon Louis, won the race in 2 hours, 58 minutes and 50 seconds. Every year, long-distance runners from all over the world come to Athens to challenge their body and spirit to retrace the legendary footsteps of Pheidippides. With its combination of hills, heat, and history, many consider it the toughest—but most poetic—Marathon route of them all.
About a decade ago, there were 10,000 participants running through the city in various races during the Athens Marathon. In 2019, there were about 50,000 runners, and thousands cheering on the sidelines, celebrating the power of human endurance and the strong bonds of international community!
To read this article in full, visit: www.thisisathens.org
To read this article in full, visit: www.thisisathens.org
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Greek Language & Culture
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Saturday, 21 March 2020 19:57
Important Coronavirus Update - Schools Close Nationwide
School Closures in Greece - Updated on March 21, 2020
On March 10th, 2020, the Greek Ministry of Health announced the closure of all schools and universities as part of the preventative measures taken to contain the spread of the coronavirus in Greece. The measure applies to private and public schools, kindergartens, preschools, universities, and cram schools, and it aims to reduce the spreading of the virus.
The Greek Ministry of Education announced the extension of the closure of all educational institutions until April 10 as a measure to counteract the coronavirus pandemic. Niki Kerameos, the Minister of Education, has not ruled out an extension to the school and academic year so that students do not lose their year or semester.
To learn more about how to stay protected or if you believe you may have been infected please CLICK HERE.
Important Notice from XpatAthens
It is important to remind our readers that XpatAthens is not in any way a media source. While we do our best to keep our readers informed, we advise you to consult Greek media outlets such as ekathimerini.com, amna.gr, naftemporiki.gr, and protothema.gr and/or international news sites for up-to-the-hour updates on the coronavirus. Be wise and stay safe.
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Local News
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Wednesday, 18 August 2021 07:00
New Study On Athens’ Tourism Carrying Capacity
The World Tourism Association for Culture and Heritage (WTACH) has commenced a study into the tourism carrying capacity of Athens in a new partnership with the Athens Development and Destination Management Agency (ADDMA).
WTACH will set the parameters and guide the research, which is being carried out in cooperation with the University of Piraeus' Department of Tourism Studies.
The objective is to raise awareness of the tourism carrying capacity of greater Athens, especially in peak season, with the view to easing pressure on the city’s urban infrastructure and better spreading the benefits of tourism, both geographically and throughout the year.
Pre-Covid, multiple cruise ships often arrived on the same day in peak season. Localized spikes in tourism numbers, not just from cruise passengers, have the potential to compromise the ability of Athens to provide sustainable, safe, and accessible tourism experiences, throughout the city, which is known for world-famous attractions such as the Acropolis, National Archeology Museum, the Roman Agora, and the Plaka and Anafiotika neighborhoods.
The research will canvas the opinions of local residents groups, local tourism-related associations, relevant business leaders, and civil servants.
Depending on the outcomes, the findings may be useful as a tool to lobby political leaders to secure improved tourism management policies.
Mr. Vangelis Vlachos, CEO of ADDMA, said that the study will provide vital empirical data showing the impact of the visitor economy on the Greek capital. The research would also give the city an “important new destination management tool”.
For more information, please visit: wtach.org
For more information, please visit: wtach.org
Published in
Local News
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Wednesday, 19 January 2022 12:00
"Elpida" Weather System Brings Snow & Low Temperatures
Relatively heavy snowfall and ice prompted the Traffic Police to close off the top section of the road leading up to Mount Parnitha, on Wednesday, January 19th. According to the national weather service, Wednesday’s chill will ease on Thursday and Friday before returning with a vengeance on Saturday.
The country is currently being affected by a so-called Polar Jet Stream, fast-flowing, narrow, meandering air currents in the atmosphere coming from the North-West.
The weather system “Elpida” is expected to bring heavy snow and abnormally low temperatures that will remain at least until the middle of next week.
According to the director of the Hellenic National Meteorological Service, the first “wave” hits on Wednesday, January 19th, without significant effects. However, the second “wave” is expected to hit on Saturday with thunderstorms, snow, and a noticeable drop in temperature.
“Elpida” weather system will bring “polar” temperatures, with the country entering a phase of prolonged cold weather. The intensity and extent of these weather phenomena, however, are still unknown and entirely dependent on the exact location and course of the system.
According to the most recent forecast data, however, very heavy snowfalls are likely to occur on most of the Aegean islands.
To avoid frost damage on hydrometers and water pipes, precautionary measures should be put into action, such as covering/insulating hydrometers or emptying the water pipes overnight.
If you live in one of Greece’s mountainous areas, prepare yourself for an emergency by creating and storing a supply of water that will meet your family’s needs.
At a glance
The country is currently being affected by a so-called Polar Jet Stream, fast-flowing, narrow, meandering air currents in the atmosphere coming from the North-West.
The weather system “Elpida” is expected to bring heavy snow and abnormally low temperatures that will remain at least until the middle of next week.
According to the director of the Hellenic National Meteorological Service, the first “wave” hits on Wednesday, January 19th, without significant effects. However, the second “wave” is expected to hit on Saturday with thunderstorms, snow, and a noticeable drop in temperature.
“Elpida” weather system will bring “polar” temperatures, with the country entering a phase of prolonged cold weather. The intensity and extent of these weather phenomena, however, are still unknown and entirely dependent on the exact location and course of the system.
According to the most recent forecast data, however, very heavy snowfalls are likely to occur on most of the Aegean islands.
To avoid frost damage on hydrometers and water pipes, precautionary measures should be put into action, such as covering/insulating hydrometers or emptying the water pipes overnight.
If you live in one of Greece’s mountainous areas, prepare yourself for an emergency by creating and storing a supply of water that will meet your family’s needs.
At a glance
- Weather deterioration during the weekend with heavy snowfall, not only in mountainous and semi-mountainous areas but even in lowland areas of central and northern Greece.
- The temperature will drop significantly by 8 to 10 degrees Celsius.
- The winds will blow 5 to 6 and 7 Beaufort in the Aegean and up to 8 and 9 Beaufort during the weekend.
Originally published in Greek on: protothema.gr
Translated by: Codico Lab
Published in
Local News
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Monday, 27 June 2022 07:00
11 Shipwrecks Now Accessible To Divers
The Ministry of Culture and Sports has announced a decision that will give recreational scuba divers access to 11 historic shipwrecks in Greek territorial waters. Organized visits to the wreck sites by accredited dive schools and tour operators will only be permitted following the submission of the necessary paperwork to the Ephorate of Underwater Antiquities, the department responsible for safeguarding the country’s submerged cultural sites.
Scuba diving has become an increasingly popular recreational activity in Greece in recent years, drawing thousands of tourists each year eager to explore the country’s spectacular variety of underwater sites. This is especially the case for wreck diving, which, until recently, was largely prohibited due to concerns over the looting of priceless antiquities.
The following wrecks have been made accessible:
HMHS Britannic, Kea (British ocean liner and sister ship of the famous Titanic, sank in 1916); SS Burdigala, Kea (German ocean liner, sank in 1916); SS Patris, Kea (paddle steamer, sank in 1868); SS Artemis Pita, Milos (Greek cargo steamer, sank in 1943); SS Sifnos, Milos (Greek cargo steamer, sank in 1941); SS Minnewaska, Marathi, Crete (British steamer, sank in 1916); SS Mytilene, Bay of Kypsa Kassandra, Halkidiki (German cargo ship, sank in 1961); the Turkish shipwreck at Kalamitsi, Chalkidiki (sank in the first two decades of the 20th century); SS Creteland, Aghios Georgios, Evia (Greek cargo steamer, sank in 1930); SS Pioneer I, Lichades, Evia (cement ship, sank in 1944); SS Volos, Lefteris reef, between Pelion and Skiathos (German steamer, sank in 1931).
To read this article in full, please visit: greece-is.com
Scuba diving has become an increasingly popular recreational activity in Greece in recent years, drawing thousands of tourists each year eager to explore the country’s spectacular variety of underwater sites. This is especially the case for wreck diving, which, until recently, was largely prohibited due to concerns over the looting of priceless antiquities.
The following wrecks have been made accessible:
HMHS Britannic, Kea (British ocean liner and sister ship of the famous Titanic, sank in 1916); SS Burdigala, Kea (German ocean liner, sank in 1916); SS Patris, Kea (paddle steamer, sank in 1868); SS Artemis Pita, Milos (Greek cargo steamer, sank in 1943); SS Sifnos, Milos (Greek cargo steamer, sank in 1941); SS Minnewaska, Marathi, Crete (British steamer, sank in 1916); SS Mytilene, Bay of Kypsa Kassandra, Halkidiki (German cargo ship, sank in 1961); the Turkish shipwreck at Kalamitsi, Chalkidiki (sank in the first two decades of the 20th century); SS Creteland, Aghios Georgios, Evia (Greek cargo steamer, sank in 1930); SS Pioneer I, Lichades, Evia (cement ship, sank in 1944); SS Volos, Lefteris reef, between Pelion and Skiathos (German steamer, sank in 1931).
To read this article in full, please visit: greece-is.com
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Local News
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Tuesday, 29 November 2022 14:47
Greece Takes Actions To Attract Digital Nomads
Greece is quickly evolving into a remote work destination with authorities taking actions to facilitate the move, according to the conclusions of the 1st Work from Greece Summit organized by Marketing Greece.
Government officials, company executives, and digital nomads attended the event and exchanged ideas on ways to develop the country into a remote work destination as well as on the added value it will provide the Greek tourism sector.
Opening the event, Marketing Greece CEO Ioanna Dretta referred to the workfromgreece.gr site which aims to answer all questions regarding remote work options in Greece and offer guidance.
In efforts to simplify procedures, Digital Governance Minister Kyriakos Pierrakakis announced that individuals will be able to soon establish self-owned businesses (sole proprietorship) through Gov.gr whose services are currently being translated into English.
On his part, Tourism Minister Vassilis Kikilias said Greece was an ideal destination for remote work thanks to its climate and hospitality. “Executives of large international tourism companies have told me that Greece’s fine climate boosts employee moods and as a result their performance also.”
As part of government efforts to simplify procedures and attract more remote workers, Deputy Foreign Minister Militiadis Varvitsiotis noted that Greece was one of the first countries to regulate remote work adding that in view of global competition, “it may be the time to make our approach more flexible”. Varvitsiotis also referred ministry initiatives, including the creation a special visa for digital nomads.
To read this article in full, please visit: news.gtp.gr
Government officials, company executives, and digital nomads attended the event and exchanged ideas on ways to develop the country into a remote work destination as well as on the added value it will provide the Greek tourism sector.
Opening the event, Marketing Greece CEO Ioanna Dretta referred to the workfromgreece.gr site which aims to answer all questions regarding remote work options in Greece and offer guidance.
In efforts to simplify procedures, Digital Governance Minister Kyriakos Pierrakakis announced that individuals will be able to soon establish self-owned businesses (sole proprietorship) through Gov.gr whose services are currently being translated into English.
On his part, Tourism Minister Vassilis Kikilias said Greece was an ideal destination for remote work thanks to its climate and hospitality. “Executives of large international tourism companies have told me that Greece’s fine climate boosts employee moods and as a result their performance also.”
As part of government efforts to simplify procedures and attract more remote workers, Deputy Foreign Minister Militiadis Varvitsiotis noted that Greece was one of the first countries to regulate remote work adding that in view of global competition, “it may be the time to make our approach more flexible”. Varvitsiotis also referred ministry initiatives, including the creation a special visa for digital nomads.
To read this article in full, please visit: news.gtp.gr
Published in
Business News
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Tuesday, 12 December 2023 07:00
Extended Festive Season Operating Hours As Of Tuesday December 12th
Store hours have be extended as of Tuesday, December 12th to facilitate holiday shopping.
The Athens Trade Association announced that the opening hours of stores in Athens for the 2023 Christmas holidays will begin on December 12.
Stores will be open from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m. on weekdays and from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m. on Saturdays.
Stores will be open from 9 a.m. until 9 p.m. on weekdays and from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m. on Saturdays.
Shops will also be open on Sundays from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m., including December 17, 24, and 31.
Shops will remain closed on December 25–26 (Christmas Day and Boxing Day), as well as on January 1 and 2, 2024.
Originally published on: ekathimerini.com
Published in
Local News
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Monday, 16 September 2024 15:30
1974 & 1944: Athens Celebrates Its Freedom
The Municipality of Athens continues its celebratory program "1974 & 1944: Athens Celebrates its Freedom" with a variety of exhibitions, discussions, film screenings, music events, historical and theatrical tours, dance performances, and theatrical shows throughout the city center and its neighborhoods.
Having launched successfully in June and drawing large crowds throughout the summer, the program now extends into November, honoring two major anniversaries for the city: the 80th anniversary of the city's liberation from German occupation in 1944, and the 50th anniversary of the restoration of democracy in 1974. Through cultural and educational activities, the event offers a journey into the city’s rich historical memory, with the support of cultural organizations like the City of Athens Cultural, Sports and Youth Organization (OPANDA) and Technopolis.
Key Events
At the heart of the celebration is the major historical exhibition "1974 & 1944: Athens Celebrates its Freedom" at the OPANDA Arts Center in Freedom Park, running until October 28. Visitors can explore more than 500 rare artifacts, including photographs, audiovisual materials, documents, artwork, and personal items that reflect the emotions Athenians experienced during the festive days of '44 and '74. There are free guided tours every Thursday evening and daily school tours aimed at cultivating historical awareness in young people. The exhibition, organized by Technopolis in collaboration with the Archives of Contemporary Social History (ASKI), Greece’s General State Archives, and the City of Athens Historical Archive, offers a deep dive into this pivotal period.
In October, the program will also include the dance segment "Athens Dances for its Freedom," featuring performances inspired by the exhibition. These site-specific works include "They Leave" by Prolet OCD (Oct. 13), "The Possibility of Democracy" by Creo Dance Company (Oct. 19), and others.
Artistic & Musical Highlights
From September 26 to November 3, the Athens Municipal Gallery will host "The Restoration of Optimism," a visual arts exhibition focused on the themes of democracy and dialogue, featuring works from both established and contemporary artists. In a special event on November 1, students from the Greek State School of Dance will perform a dance interpretation of the exhibition, while the City of Athens Choir will perform on November 2. Another notable exhibit, "Democracy and Conflicts," runs from October 3 to November 17, delving into the meaning of democracy and the struggles that shaped it.
The commemoration also includes significant musical events, such as a free performance of Beethoven's opera "Fidelio" at the Olympia Municipal Music Theatre "Maria Callas" on October 12, mirroring a symbolic performance from 1944. On October 15, the Lycabettus Theater will host the grand concert "Nothing is Lost: 50 Years of Songs for a Better World," featuring beloved artists across generations.
Theater & Historical Tours
Three major theatrical performances will further enrich the program, such as the immersive "Sketches from Korai 4, 1941-1944" in the underground space of Korai 4 and the moving "When the Statues Left" for young students. Historical and theatrical walking tours will guide participants through key landmarks and lesser-known stories of Athens’ fight for freedom.
Public Discussions & Film Screenings
The Freedom Park will host a series of public discussions on topics like the role of gender and sexuality during the post-dictatorship era, and the solidarity movements of 1967-1974. A rich lineup of documentaries will also be screened, including Michael Cacoyannis’ "Attila '74" and rare footage from the Greek Resistance.
Join Athens this fall in celebrating its history of struggle, liberation, and democracy through this multifaceted cultural program, where the past is brought to life and reexamined in today's context.
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Local News
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