XpatAthens

XpatAthens

Yannis Behrakis was one of the most significant photojournalists in the world, and a person who found hope even in the most difficult circumstances. Behrakis captured some of the most important political, combat, sporting, and social events of the past 25 years. For him photo reporting wasn’t a job, it was a mission. An anthropocentric mission whose only goal was to raise awareness for the things happening around us. His camera captured thousands of stories that would have otherwise been left untold.
 
“My mission is to tell you the story and then you decide what you want to do, my mission is to make sure that nobody can say: ‘I didn’t know’.” – Yannis Behrakis
 
During his journeys around the world, Behrakis encountered the Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders) a few times. “We do different things, but we share the same mission” he said. In October 2016, he worked together with the organization on a photography exhibition named ‘People on the Move’ that presented the journey of refugees through Greece.
 
As a hopeless optimist Yannis Behrakis, was a firm believer that a single image could change the world. People like him are a hope for a better and more unprejudiced world.


Watch the Médecins Sans Frontières' touching tribute to Yannis Behrakis.
 
















 

Article originally posted on msf.gr
Translated by Xpatathens
Photo AP Photo/Lefteris Pitarakis

The Ktimatolgio / Hellenic Cadastre is currently in the process of collecting new property ownership declarations for various areas throughout Greece as well as confirming declarations that have previously been submitted in other regions.

Architect-engineer, Katerina Sirouni, has put together valuable information on how to declare your property quickly and with ease.

Which Areas Are Being Registered?

More than half of Greece is currently under registration since November 19, 2018. Areas including Kalymnos, Karpathos, Ioannina, Lefkada, Kastoria, Nafpaktos, Kefallonia, the Peloponnese, Ikaria, and Chios are among a few - property owners, be alert!

Since deadlines for submission vary so and are subject to change, please visit the Hellenic Cadastre for further information.

Athens Municipality property owners, please note that you will be receiving notifications to double check your property declarations for any false information.

The deadline for amendments in Athens as well as submitting new declarations for those of you that have forgotten to do so, is June 24, 2019.

What Documents Do I Need To Submit?

Depending on how the ownership was acquired, documents needed may differ. The necessary documents, however, include the following:

1. Application Form - online or hard-copy when physically submitted
2. Title Ownership - photocopy or scanned when submitting online
3. Land survey when applicable
4. Greek Identification Card or Passport Information

It is essential to indicate the location of your property, and if recent topography surveys with coordinates are not available, you can visit the official website www.ktimatologio.gr to identify your property.

Why Register?
Greek Property owners that fail to register on time will forever lose their rights!

The Greek government will be entitled to ownership rights for any 'unknown' property that has never been declared.

Furthermore, the Ktimatologio is one of the many 'fast-tracking' property laws since 2010 that will all connect and be linked to the Electronic Building Code ID to be implemented in the near future.



About Katerina Siroun
i


Katerina Sirouni was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois and received her Degree in Architecture and Engineering from the National Technical University of Athens in Greece.

She is experienced in designing and renovating properties, on-site construction supervision, project management, and in issuing all property-related permits and certificates. She also specializes in offering consulting and property management services predominantly to non-Greek residents regarding their property in Greece.
By The Glass first opened its doors in 2012 following the uprisings and destruction of Athens in 2011. This superb Wine Bistrot was the answer of its proprietor, Fotini Pantzia, to the inactivity and abandonment of the Greek capital in the wake of the Greek crisis.
 
By The Glass is located Ralli Gallery (arcade) just a few steps away from the entrance of the National Gardens of Athens.
 
"A refuge to hide, to isolate oneself from the city's buzz, to take a breath and then dive again in the everyday reality of Athens" in the words of the owner, the arcade magically transfers guests to the Old Athens.
 
Their wine list is one of the most concise and exciting in Greece; it holds a selection of 500+ wines including Greek Vintages, Premium Fine Wines, tried and true international classics, rare collector's bottles, and one-of-a-kind Magnums. Additionally, expect to find a great list of Champagnes and Sparkling Wines, Distillates (Eau-de-Vie), and Dessert Wines.

As its name implies, By The Glass serves more than 200 wines by the glass–using Coravin wine preservation systems and a 36 module wine dispenser. The carefully curated wine list primarily comprises Greek wines but at the same time includes many imported "jewels," such as a French Corton or a legendary Romanée-Conti!

Here you will be able to pair the exquisite wines with a few delicious yet unpretentious dishes prepared by talented chef, Antonis Pechlivanakis! Some of our favorites include the Greek traditional pressed lamb with celeriac puree, baby potatoes, and Porto sauce, the focaccia with mushrooms, cream cheese, and truffle oil and the poached salmon with avocado cream and carob powder.

By The Glass
ranks no 41 out of 100 best restaurants in Athens at the Restaurant 100 Awards and has been voted as the best Bar Restaurant in Athens in 2017, 2018, and 2019 by the same organization.

A secret garden in the quaint Rallou Manou square welcomes guests from spring until the end of October with a backdrop of a stone-built church on one side and the statue honoring the unknown artist on the other!

Address: G.Souri 3 & Filellinon, Syntagma, Athens
Telephone: 210 3232560 & 210 3249988

Price Point: $$-$$$
Dress Code: Casual Chic

 

Photo: By The Glass


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The wonderful weather, the unique Messinian landscape, the 2 signature golf courses and the 17 maritime teams, composed the impressive scenery of the Greek Maritime Golf Event 2021. The top maritime golf tournament was held with utmost safety for the 7 th year on September 3 - 5 2021, at Costa Navarino , Messinia.

Golfing action with the Messinian background scenery
The golf action started on Saturday, September 4, with the shotgun scramble that was held at The Dunes Course, in a stunning natural landscape full of centuries-old olive trees. Moreover, non-golfers had the opportunity to attend the golf clinic and take part in the putting competition.

The event was completed on Sunday, September 5, as golfers had the option of participating in the two (2) ball better ball (3/4 hcp), at The Bay Course, with a magnificent view of the historic Bay of Navarino, and the picturesque port of Pylos.

The shipping community supported KARKINAKI
On Saturday night, the awards ceremony was glamorous and full of surprises and gifts for the tournament’s participants. The event was be presented by the Euroleague legend, Joe Arlauckas and Ioanna Papadimitriou.

A silent auction was held for the first time and auctioned 32 items of golf legends such as Gary Player, Tiger Woods, Roy Mcllroy and world-class athletes, including NBA Finals Champion & MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, NFL player Tom Brady and tennis player Serena Williams. The activity was implemented in collaboration with the unique agency in Europe, dealing with trading cards and memorabilia, Trace ‘n Chase and the assistance of Ideas Print.

The shipping community “embraced” and actively supported the event’s good cause, as during the ceremony participants contributed with their desired amount, bidding on their favorite items. The total amount collected exceeded the 5,000 euros and was given to the Non-Profit Organization KARKINAKI, which claims intervention in the effort of stopping Childhood and adolescent cancer being a taboo issue, but also finding as many allies as possible so that every child who suffers from cancer has equal access to high- quality hospitalization, effective treatment and, ultimately, the right to life.

At the same time, a lottery was held with rich prizes that were drawn to the participants and offered by the following donors: Qatar Airways, The Westin Resort Costa Navarino, Santo Maris Oia Luxury Suites & Spa, The Margi, Arifakis, Domotel Kastri, Dinner in the Sky and Blue Shades of Greece.

In the context of this year’s event, the recognized Greek PGA golfer and organizer of the Greek Maritime Golf Event, Mr. Thanos Karantzias highlighted: “I feel very proud that the Greek Maritime Golf Event exceeded all expectations for the 7th year. We managed to 2 showcase the golf tourism of Messinia while organizing a highly demanding tournament with utmost safety and with a strict health protocol. I would like to thank the sponsors and all members of the maritime community who participated and supported the top maritime golf tournament with their presence. We are now renewing our appointment for December 4, at the Golf Course of Glyfada”.

During the tournament, participants and visitors had the opportunity to drive and meet the new Porsche models and admire, the impressive Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo.

The event was held under the auspices of the Hellenic Golf Federation. Greek Maritime Golf Event, was organized by Birdie Events, through an initiative of the recognized Greek PGA golfer, Mr. Thanos Karantzias. The tournament was addressed exclusively to distinguished executives of the Greek shipping community.

In the overall team standings, the team of Papadopoulos, Harvey, Hutton, Ventouris won the 1 st place. Second place went to the team of Oikonomou, Karabatsos, Patiniotis, Sorotos, while the team of Syomin, Boetius, Garulin, Androulidakis took the third place. In the other categories, William Karnazes won “Closest to the Pin” award and Frank Monteiro claimed the “Longest Drive”.

Dynamic support of the sponsors
Greek Maritime Golf Event was attended by some of the leading shipping companies
from Greece and Cyprus as well as great Greek companies that supported the event.
Maritime Sponsors:
The Marshall Islands Registry IRI was the event’s Platinum Sponsor.
Mainline Shipping Company, Onego Shipping Company, Jotun Hellas and Swift
Marine were Golden Sponsors.
Arrow Hellas, DNV and Drew Marine were Silver Sponsors.
Marine Tours was the event’s Official Travel Partner.
IYC was the Official Sponsor.
Tototheo Maritime and Standard Club were the Official Supporters.
Non-Maritime Sponsors:
MOTODYNAMICS SA was the Signature Sponsor.
Qatar Airways was the Official Airline.
Poseidonia was the Official Supporter.
Avance was the Official Rental Partner.
Messinian Spa was the Official Beauty Partner
Under Armour was the Official Clothing Partner.
Pilia Express was the Official Carrier.
Minoa Water was the Official Water.
Trace ‘n Chase was the Silent Auction Partner.
Pylos Poems, Santo Maris Oia Luxury Suites & Spa, The Margi, Arifakis, Domotel
Kastri, Karalis Beach Hotel, ΜΕΤΑΧΑ, UWC SAMOS, Luc Belaire, Veroni, Kayak,
Lakonia, Ideas Print, Dinner in the Sky, Blue Shades of Greece, Athi Rodi and
Unique Flowers Creations are the event’s Partners.
Boo Productions was the Audio Visual Partner.
The award-winning sports marketing agency of ActiveMedia Group undertook the event’s
Golf Production.
Tournament with safety
The Greek Maritime Golf Event brought together distinguished executives of the Greek
shipping community who competed in the completely safe destination of Costa
Navarino, under a strict health and safety protocol established by the event’s production staff and approved by the Health Scientific Committee of the General Secretariat of Sports.

Photo Credit: Mike Tsolis
Thursday, 17 February 2022 15:21

Must Go: Bike Seat For Sale

Moving Sale: Lightly used children's bike seat in good condition.

Red and grey with belt and foot straps.

Pick up in Neo Irakleio, Attiki.

View on Facebook Marketplace 
Wednesday, 18 December 2024 07:00

Eggnog With A Greek Twist

Bring a Mediterranean twist to the classic holiday eggnog with flavors inspired by Greece! This creamy and aromatic drink combines traditional eggnog ingredients with the distinct taste of Greek honey and mastiha.




Ingredients:

  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 large eggs (separated)
  • 3/4 cup Greek honey (or to taste)
  • 1/4 cup mastiha liqueur (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (plus more for garnish)
  • Lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Heat the Base:
    In a medium saucepan, combine the milk, heavy cream, Greek honey, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon zest. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it is just about to simmer (do not boil). Remove from heat.
  2. Whisk the Yolks:
    In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they become pale and creamy. Gradually add a ladle of the warm milk mixture to the yolks while whisking continuously to temper them. Slowly add the yolk mixture back into the saucepan, whisking constantly.
  3. Cook the Eggnog:
    Return the saucepan to medium-low heat and cook until the mixture thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat and stir in the mastiha liqueur (if using) and vanilla extract.
  4. Beat the Whites:
    In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gently fold the egg whites into the cooled eggnog mixture for a frothy texture.
Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate the eggnog for at least 2 hours. Before serving, give it a gentle stir. Pour into glasses and garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg or a drizzle of Greek honey.
 
Rooted in the oral tradition of ancient Greece, proverbs served as concise expressions of moral, social, and practical wisdom. Passed down through generations, these proverbs encapsulate the values, beliefs, and experiences of ancient Greek society, offering invaluable guidance for navigating life's complexities.

"Σπεῦδε βραδέως." (Speûde bradéōs.)
Meaning: "Hasten slowly."
Origin: This proverb, attributed to the ancient Greek philosopher and playwright Euripides, embodies the principle of cautious deliberation and prudent action. It advises against rash decisions and impulsive behavior, urging individuals to proceed with careful consideration and patience in order to achieve success.

"Ἀνάγκᾳ δ' οὐδὲ θεοὶ μάχονται." (Anánkāi d' oudè theoì mákhontai.)
Meaning: "Even the gods cannot fight necessity."
Origin: This proverb, derived from the works of the ancient Greek tragedian Simonides, acknowledges the immutable power of fate and destiny. It underscores the inevitability of certain events and the futility of resistance against forces beyond human control, emphasizing the importance of acceptance and resilience in the face of adversity.

"Γνῶθι σεαυτόν." (Gnōthi seautón.)
Meaning: "Know thyself."
Origin: Inscribed in the Temple of Apollo at Delphi, this famous aphorism has been attributed to various ancient Greek sages, including the philosopher Thales of Miletus and the oracle of Delphi. It emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, introspection, and understanding one's own strengths, weaknesses, and limitations in the pursuit of wisdom and self-improvement.

"Μηδένα πρὸ τοῦ τέλους μακαρίζε." (Mēdéna prò toû télous makaríze.)
Meaning: "Do not call anyone happy before the end."
Origin: According to Herodotus, Kroisos, the king of Lydia, impressed by his own wealth and achievements, asked Solon who the happiest man in the world was. Solon, instead of praising Kroisos, famously responded with the proverb "μηδένα πρὸ τοῦ τέλους μακαρίζε" (mēdena pro tou telous makarize), advising Kroisos not to consider anyone truly happy until their life had ended. This encounter served as a cautionary tale about the uncertainty of fortune and the fleeting nature of happiness, despite Kroisos' immense wealth and power.
On Thursday, October 31 at 7:15 PM, celebrate Halloween with a screening of the classic horror-comedy Young Frankenstein (1974)! The Hellenic American Union’s HAU Movie Club, in collaboration with Mooviereel, kicks off the season with this unforgettable Mel Brooks parody starring Gene Wilder, Mel Brooks, Peter Boyle, and Teri Garr. The film will be shown with Greek subtitles, and admission is free!

Co-written by Mel Brooks and Gene Wilder, the film draws inspiration from Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein and Universal Pictures’ original Frankenstein trilogy. The result? One of the greatest comedies of all time.

In the hilarious plot, the grandson of the infamous Dr. Frankenstein, determined to prove his grandfather wasn’t as mad as everyone believes, travels to Transylvania. There, he uncovers the secret to reanimating a dead body—with uproarious results.

Young Frankenstein was nominated for two Oscars: Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Sound. Expect fun, with confetti to toss during the opening and closing credits! Extra points for dressing up as one of Universal’s iconic monsters. Don’t miss out!
Wednesday, 09 July 2025 17:27

Hiking & Yoga Escape In Pelion

September 7-13 - Leave behind the noise and pace of city life and embark on a truly memorable escape in the breathtaking Pelion region of Greece.

Uncover the hidden treasures of Pelion—secluded coastlines, charming villages, forested mountains, and secret beaches where the sea feels like a dream. Disconnect completely and soak in the serenity of this enchanting destination.
 
Your home for the retreat is a beautiful villa tucked into the green slopes of the mountain, embraced by nature. Wake up to sweeping views, savor wholesome, locally sourced meals prepared fresh each day, and recharge your mind and body in a setting alive with vibrant plant and animal life.
 
Steeped in myth, Mount Pelion takes its name from King Peleus, father of Achilles. It was said to be the land of the Centaurs—legendary creatures that were half-human, half-horse—and the beloved summer retreat of the Olympian gods themselves.


Retreat Info

When: September 7-13, 2025

Where: Pelion

Price: From 2,550€

Email: steph@nefelinine.com

Organizer: Nefeli Nine

INSIDE Hiking Yoga Escape

Thursday, 05 February 2015 15:19

Outdoor Autumn Nights

The past weeks have been more like my weeks ‘not’ in Athens! I’ve been away with work quite a bit – which is nice when you think about it, but less nice when you actually do it… I love to get away from time to time – and I do love to come home!

Returning late Friday night meant I was ready for a fun night out on Saturday… A few phone calls later, plans were hatched. Well, one small plan at least. We would meet at Riza, our sure-bet tsipouradiko in Thiseio, for a lite bite. But this being Athens, and the post-summer city nightlife positively buzzing, this plan quickly expanded.

Having satisfied our stomachs, and with the warm night still young, we decided to move on. We walked over to six d.o.g.s. in Monastiraki and had a quick drink in the energized, ‘standing room only’ vibe in the cool garden space… This is a very popular place, day or night – and with good reason.

Next stop: TAF in Monastiraki. This is for those who love unmarked doorways in empty alleyways, that open onto unexpectedly cool interior courtyards... Cool music, friendly vibe, graffiti-chic art spaces and a refreshingly adult crowd. Highly recommend.

On our way to TAF, we noticed a sign for a roof-top space called Couleur Locale. It’s literally next door to TAF, through a small stoa, past the tiny taverna, and up to the roof via the elevator. This place opened just over a month ago, and is a wide-open, casual bar space – up-beat dance music, great drinks list and some delicious chef-made food choices. It’s also quite a large space, and doesn’t yet get too busy. Anyone else tired of not finding a table at 360 or A for Athens?

One thing is for sure: Athens in autumn doesn’t force anyone indoors. While many of my Canadian friends are waking up to near-zero temperatures, I will ‘have another round, please!’, and might even leave my jacket at home…

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…

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