XpatAthens
Monday, 16 January 2017 07:00
XpatAthens Picked By Culture Trip As 2016 Local Favorite
We are thrilled that XpatAthens was picked by The Culture Trip as a 2016 Athens local favorite, as mentioned in their article ‘Moving To Greece? Here Are Some Practical Tip You Should Know.’ The Culture Trip is a a media platform that shares personalized content and recommendations from destinations all over the world.
XpatAthens was listed as an excellent resource to ‘meet like-minded people or other expats living near you.’ We agree that having a support network is vital to acclimating as an expat and feeling at home in a new city. Be sure to check out our Practical Information page for other useful articles on how to adjust to life in Greece!
Please click HERE to read The Culture Trip's article about 'Moving To Greece.'
Please click HERE to read The Culture Trip's article about 'Moving To Greece.'
Published in
Local News
Tagged under
Monday, 20 March 2017 10:26
From Chicago To Greece - How One Woman Started A Business In Kavala
This is a great story from WindyCity Greek about an American woman, who after having met and married her husband in Chicago, returned to his family’s homeland of Kavala in Greece. It was there that she began down a path much different from her corporate career in the US. Staci Wagner learned the art of traditional soap making and founded the successful Vilia Soap Company.
Vilia Soap Company - A Blooming Business
American Staci Wagner Hamalis met her husband in Chicago, where she lived for four years. The city was especially romantic for him because that is where his own parents met. Since he proposed to her in 2012 at The Bean (a sculpture in Chicago’s Millennium Park), she began visiting his homeland. Gradually, she fell more and more in love with Greece — and his family — while also learning about traditional soap making. Her life changed dramatically when she settled in her husband’s hometown of Kavala.
Home Is Where The Heart Is
Her high-flying career had her traveling around the world and living in cities such as Brussels and London, but she found her true path upon settling in northern Greece in 2015. She moved soon after her marriage, and was immediately inspired by the fertile Greek landscape and its cornucopia of natural products — most of which have curative and cosmetic properties. Above all, she became fascinated by what her father-in-law, a retired chemist, began teaching her in 2012: traditional soap-making. Using the purest of nature’s bounty and employing old school artisanal methods, she is now running the successful Vilia Soap Company. Her use of old methods is most impressive, especially in a world of mass produced, chemically-laden products.
From Kavala With Love
Vilia Soap Company uses Greek organic olive oil from Kavala combined with almond oil from Volos in central Greece. Inspired from local flora and fauna, they use lavender from the local market, and various other indigenous herbs like rosemary. Ingredients like Tea Tree oil and lemongrass are sourced from foreign suppliers.
Their soaps have already proven a great success among customers in 11 countries across the world. Their largest demographic is women, from late 20s and up, who seek pure, handmade, high-quality, chemical-free and uniquely fragranced soaps. But they aren’t stopping there.
To read this article in full, please visit: WindyCity Greek
To read this article in full, please visit: WindyCity Greek
Photo Credit: Vilia Soap Company
Published in
People
Tagged under
Tuesday, 17 October 2017 09:16
How To Spend 48 Hours On The Beautiful Island Of Leros
Leros is ideal if you want to visit an island that is small, green, laid back, but full of history and cultural traces from different eras. It is also an ideal island to visit if you are travelling on a small motor or sailing boat, since it has a great marina and lots of natural harbors. Whether you visit now or later, Greek TV shares their perfect 48-hour itinerary!
Day One
Enjoy the harbor , 9 a.m.
Take your first swim in Porcelana beach, a small hidden beach near the exit of Lakki harbor. The harbor of Lakki is the second biggest in the Mediterranean, it really makes you think you are around a lake. That is why it was given the name Portolago during the Italian occupation.
The guns of Navarone, 11 a.m
Did you know that the movie “The Guns of Navarone” waw inspired by the battle of Leros? After the early swim you can visit the Leros War museum in Merikia. The museum is hosted inside a tunnel constructed for defense purposes by the Italian army during WWII and it is a very interesting exhibit by itself.
Seafood paradise in Gourna, 4 p.m.
Don’t miss fresh seafood plates in the Fish Taverna. You can sea local fishermen bringing in the food you will have in your plate half an hour later.
To read this article in full, please visit: Greek TV
Published in
Travel Greece
Tagged under
Thursday, 12 May 2022 07:00
5 Beautiful Places To Stargaze In Athens
No doubt in our minds that Athens is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. With historical ancient sites and exceptional beaches along the coast, Athens is a fascinating place for both tourists and locals. Most sightseeing is done during the day, but Athens is just as wonderful and impressive at night.Below are some excellent spots to sit and stargaze!
Thiseio
@observatoryathens
Right in the heart of Athens, the bright lights of the busy city might not create the best circumstances for a crystal clear sky, but the local observatory and its telescope have sure taken care of it! So next time you're downtown, don't forget to pay it a visit.
Penteli
@paranoid_pastel
The Penteli Observatory is undoubtedly one of the most famous observatories in Greece. Whether you live in Athens or just visiting, you can take part in one of the organized tours that they offer, which include walking at night and observing the clear sky through a Newall telescope.
Sounio
@leva_alex
One of the most magical places outside of Athens is the famous Sounio. The Temple of Poseidon and its sandy beach just under it make it a once in a lifetime oppurtunity to gaze at the sky while enjoying a refreshing swim.
Elikonas
@tasos_palamidas
Just about an hour away from Athens lies the country town of Elikonas, which offers a fantastic site in the woods to gaze at the stars. The place is called Arvanitsa where visitors can also enjoy a quick bite far from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Kitheronas
@kimon_papathanasopoulos
The mountain of Kitheronas is situated between Attica and Viotia and has become a favorite place for passionate stargazers. If you do visit it, the best place for a great view of the sky is near the EOS Eleusina shelter, Vaggelis Tsakos.
Thiseio
@observatoryathens
Right in the heart of Athens, the bright lights of the busy city might not create the best circumstances for a crystal clear sky, but the local observatory and its telescope have sure taken care of it! So next time you're downtown, don't forget to pay it a visit.
Penteli
@paranoid_pastel
The Penteli Observatory is undoubtedly one of the most famous observatories in Greece. Whether you live in Athens or just visiting, you can take part in one of the organized tours that they offer, which include walking at night and observing the clear sky through a Newall telescope.
Sounio
@leva_alex
One of the most magical places outside of Athens is the famous Sounio. The Temple of Poseidon and its sandy beach just under it make it a once in a lifetime oppurtunity to gaze at the sky while enjoying a refreshing swim.
Elikonas
@tasos_palamidas
Just about an hour away from Athens lies the country town of Elikonas, which offers a fantastic site in the woods to gaze at the stars. The place is called Arvanitsa where visitors can also enjoy a quick bite far from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Kitheronas
@kimon_papathanasopoulos
The mountain of Kitheronas is situated between Attica and Viotia and has become a favorite place for passionate stargazers. If you do visit it, the best place for a great view of the sky is near the EOS Eleusina shelter, Vaggelis Tsakos.
Published in
City Discovery
Tagged under
Tuesday, 11 December 2018 07:00
One, Two, Three...Light Up The Christmas Tree!
The city of Athens is getting ready to welcome Santa Claus under the massive Christmas tree at Syntagma Square. The city’s tree is scheduled to light up today, December 11, at 7pm.
The Mayor of Athens, Giorgos Kaminis will officially launch the festivities to the sound of the City of Athens Philharmonic Orchestra, a children’s choir, and a musical performance by Penny Baltatzi and the Athens Big Band that will take place later on this evening.
The city authorities have announced that more than 230 events and happenings will take place around the city for a period of 4 weeks. Music and dance will take over the streets of Athens and dozens of up-and-coming groups and artists will perform everything from swing and jazz music to rock and mainstream beats under the Athens Christmas tree!
Published in
Local News
Tagged under
Tuesday, 14 May 2019 17:26
May 14 - Experience More Of Athens
Staying in Greece is marvelous but can sometimes get a bit tricky until you learn the customs, traditions and how locals behave. For example do you know how and where to order kid -friendly food? Or how to make the perfect cup of Greek coffee? If not, make sure you check this week's newsletter!
Please click HERE to view this issue of our newsletter!
Published in
Newsletters
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Monday, 20 March 2023 20:31
Agorá Marketplace - A Space For Sharing Stories & Products By Greek Creators
In Ancient Greece, public life was at its most vibrant in the agorá! It was a public space that played a significant role in every aspect of social life - it also served as a marketplace where merchants kept stalls or shops to sell their products.
It is this idea that inspired us to create our own Agorá in the form of an open digital space on our trusted platform where the international community can gather, navigate, and discover the stories and products of local Greek businesses, designers, food producers, artists, authors, and independent creators.
The XpatAthens Agorá Marketplace is a digital space
for sharing stories about Greek creators and their products!
Would you like to post in our Agora?
Telling your story and sharing your products in the Agora Marketplace is free of charge. If you would like to share your story, please get in touch with us.Why did we create the Agorá Marketplace? What’s behind the idea?
Our Agorá was created with the intention of connecting the international community with local Greek products, and the stories of their creators. We strive to bridge our readers with the local community in order to enhance their experience of living in Greece, while also supporting local businesses. The Agorá is a digital marketplace where our community of global citizens can gather and explore local Greek products of quality, value and authenticity.
Who benefits from the Agorá Marketplace?
Everyone. Our Agorá is a space dedicated to supporting local businesses and local creators by telling their stories and sharing their products; while giving Greece’s international community the chance to discover local products and support local businesses. In other words, this unique space on XpatAthens benefits both our readers and local Greek businesses.
Why share your products in our marketplace?
Sharing your story and your products in our digital marketplace means that you’ll be seen by our unique community of readers who follow us both locally and internationally. Our Agorá is about connecting people with local Greek products and we do this with the intention of sharing and connecting our readers with local businesses.
Note, products are never purchased directly from XpatAthens, they are simply showcased (shared) in our Agorá.
Published in
Agora
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Sunday, 10 July 2022 12:21
Embassy Of Australia In Greece
The Australian Embassy in Athens is also accredited to Bulgaria and Romania.
The Embassy in Athens is open for telephone and email requests from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm Monday to Friday except for public holidays.
Passport interviews and notarial services are offered on an appointment-only basis.
Published in
Embassies
Tagged under
Thursday, 01 February 2024 07:00
Things That Only Make Sense In Greece
Greece, a country brimming with history, has a cultural tapestry woven with unique threads that make it distinctly Greek. From the azure waters of the Aegean to the lively streets of Athens, there's a charm and character that are unparalleled.
So, what are we waiting for? Let's delve into the quirks and traditions that define the Greek way of life—the things that make perfect sense only in this land of gods, olives, and feta!
1. Kefi (Κέφι):
So, what are we waiting for? Let's delve into the quirks and traditions that define the Greek way of life—the things that make perfect sense only in this land of gods, olives, and feta!
1. Kefi (Κέφι):
Kefi is one of those the untranslatable Greek words and it means the unique sense of joy, passion, and zest for life that is deeply embedded in Greek culture. It's that magical feeling you get when dancing to bouzouki music or enjoying a lively gathering with friends and family.
2. Coffee Culture:
In Greece, coffee is not just a drink; it's a social ritual. From the strong and small Greek coffee to the leisurely frappé, coffee breaks are sacred, fostering connection and conversation.
3. Philoxenia (Φιλοξενία):
Philoxenia, or the love of strangers, is a cultural cornerstone. Greeks take immense pride in their hospitality, welcoming guests with open arms and treating them like family.
4. Blue and White Everywhere:
The classic combination of blue and white is not just a color scheme in Greece; it's an identity. From the flag to the iconic blue-domed churches of Santorini, these colors symbolize the beauty of the Greek landscape.
5. Worry Beads (Κομπολόι):
The constant clicking of worry beads is a common sight in Greece. Used as a stress-reliever or a thoughtful accessory, the komboloi reflects the laid-back attitude of the Greeks.
6. Siesta Time:
The cherished afternoon siesta is more than just a nap; it's a way of life. The midday break allows for a pause in the hustle and bustle, ensuring that work doesn't overshadow the importance of relaxation.
7. Feta on Everything:
Feta cheese is a Greek kitchen staple, finding its way onto salads, pastries, and even desserts. Its crumbly texture and tangy taste are a testament to the versatility of Greek cuisine.
8. Waving with an Open Palm:
In Greece, waving with an open palm is a sign of friendship and goodwill. It's a simple yet meaningful gesture that conveys warmth and sincerity.
9. Telling Time in "Greek Time":
"Greek time" is a relaxed approach to punctuality. It's not uncommon for social events to start later than planned, as Greeks appreciate the importance of savoring the moment.
10. Church Bells Symphony:
The sound of church bells ringing is a constant background melody in Greece. It marks religious ceremonies, weddings, and funerals, creating a timeless connection to the divine.
11. Traffic Laws as Mere Suggestions:
Navigating Greek roads requires a blend of skill and patience, as traffic laws sometimes seem more like friendly suggestions. The chaos somehow results in a unique harmony.
12. Naming Days, Not Just Birthdays:
In addition to celebrating birthdays, Greeks also commemorate name days, feast days of saints associated with their names. It adds an extra layer of festivity to the calendar.
Published in
Greek Language & Culture
Tagged under
Thursday, 05 February 2015 15:09
The Beautiful Game…
Soccer, football, the beautiful game. Whatever you call it, the world is clearly in World Cup fever. Well, the parts of the world where people paint their faces, wear their national flags as clothes and sing national anthems and national songs until they collapse in a frenzy of ‘whoo-hoos’… you know, the fun parts of the world. Which, if we’re honest, is most of the world. So World Cup fever also came to Athens.
And to New York, to Toronto, to Melbourne and apparently everyone else where there are Greeks communities. Social media is full of videos of enthusiastic Greek fans absolutely overflowing with excitement and pride. And probably lots of beer.
Speaking with Dutch, Argentinean, Swiss, even Costa Rican friends, it seems the spirit of friendly (and very serious) competition is alive and well no matter which flag you fly – and it’s all in the name of the beautiful game. And I think that’s great.
I was watching the Greece/Costa Rica match at a friend’s place on Sunday. When the game when into overtime, someone said, “We should be watching this from a bar.” The rest of us agreed. When the overtime stretched into penalties, we jumped off the couch and raced outside to the nearest café. The place was packed with excited fans, chattering and cheering. The energy was palpable. After each successive score, the cheers got louder… The result was heart breaking, but the pride of achievement remained.
There is something awesome about joining together with random strangers to celebrate ‘us’, that elusive feeling that comes when ‘one of our own’ is striving, against the odds, and succeeding – on our behalf. When the Greek players requested that their FIFA bonuses be donated to build a home for the national team in Athens, it only served to boost the feeling.
So, this week was mostly about national pride (the best kind, based on achievement), celebrating the underdog, and cheering to our hearts’ content. The eventual result was less important than the virtual bond shared by everyone waving a blue and white flag, wherever they might be in the world. There was a great image shared during the Costa Rica game, of a (non-Greek?) fan with the words ‘Vamos Grecia!’ painted in blue across her forehead. What could be better?
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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