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More than 6.000 visitors from 45 countries in Santorini

Santorini was the global benchmark for professional and amateur athletes, escorts and visitors who traveled to the enchanting island the 4th Santorini Experience this October 2018.

The top sports tourism event in Greece was a complete success and had a record number of participants in the running and swimming races, gathering more than 6,000 visitors in Santorini. In fact, 60% of the visitors stayed in Santorini for more than 5 nights.

For one more year, foreign participants surpassed every precedent, as Santorini “hosted” athletes from a total of 45 countries from the 5 continents, America, Asia, Africa, Europe, and Oceania. Specifically, swimmers and runners were from Argentina, Australia, Canada, France, Germany, New Zealand, USA, Russia, Qatar, South Africa, United Kingdom, Japan and China.

World class names as well as the elite of the Greek national open water swimming team were present!

The top Hungarian swimmer Attila Manyoki, who excels in open water swimming races with several wins and is a member of the International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame (IMSHOF), returned for another year at the event that a part of the Global Swim Series (GSS).

Along with him, the British twice silver Olympic medalist, at the Rio Olympics in 2016, Jazz Carlin swam for the first time, as well as the twin Greek expatriates racing with the colors of the national team of Netherlands, George and Timos Skotadis. The elite of the Greek national team along with top professional athletes had a dynamic presence in the swimming race. The national team consisted of George Arniakos, Dimitris Negris, Stellina Aplanti, Dejan Giovanovic, Dimitris Manios, Irene Diakoumakou, Maria Filopoulou, Maria Liossi, Anastasia Kyrili, Konstantinos Konstantineskou, Panagiotis Alogakos, Maria Kirykou, Triantafyllia Diakoumakou, Marianota Elmali and Melina Trochalaki.

The federal coach and technical director of the 1.5 miles (2,4km) open water swimming by Vikos, Nikos Gemelos applied FINA's regulations on Sunday, October 7 th , and implemented the race with the approval of the Hellenic Swimming Federation, following all safety rules. At the same time, the event took care of the amateur athletes with the addition of the safety buoy, of high standards and quality. The swimmers started in two groups from the volcano ending their race at the old port of Fira, having the imposing view of the island in front of them. Men’s winner was Dimitris Negris, George Arniakos finished 2 nd and Dejan Jovanovic in the 3 rd place. In women, Olympic medalist Jazz Carlin was 1 st , Irene Diakoumakou finished 2 nd and Maria Filopoulou came 3 rd .

You can see the detailed results on the official page of the event HERE (in the event there was an extra classification for those wearing wetsuits - wetsuit category).

For the safety of the race, 50 specialized escorts were present in the water with the help of the Lifeguard Patrol, the people of Santorini who assisted with their own boats, the Voluntary Lifeguards of Santorini, Atlantis Dive Center, Mediterranean Dive Club, Santorini Nautical Club and most of all the Boatmen Union Santorini that carried the athletes to the volcano and helped in the smooth implementation of the open water swimming race.
On Saturday, October 6, the 15km, 10km and 5km “Aristides Alafouzos” running races were held. All routes started from the desalination plant in Oia, with parts of trail track and a background of the magnificent images from the volcano overlooking the Caldera, as well as the settlements of Imerovigli, Firostefani, Oia and with a finish in Oia. The running routes are designed by the former marathon runner, Greek classic route record holder, running trainer and director of All About Running, Nikos Polias. “Santorini Experience” has joined the World’s Marathons global community. 

It should be highlighted that many athletes decided to run for the joy of sports with no timing. In terms of the social events, Municipal Sports Cultural Environmental Organization of Santorini (DAPPOS) hosted an open concert with the Greek-German artist FIONA, in the surrounding area of the Indoor Hall DAPPOS, on Saturday October 6. A little bit earlier the International Dancing Group of Santorini “Stamatina Xiarchou” & Association of Pontians Eptamyloi Serres “Akrites” opened the concert.

On Friday, October 5, on the occasion of Santorini Experience, Samsung (as the official technology partner), in cooperation with the local Kotsovolos store, organized the event “Kotsovolos and Samsung present the Hotel of the Future” at the conference hall of DAPPOS informing the island’s hoteliers of all the latest developments and the benefits of technology in their industry. Samsung enriched the experience of those participating and attending the event with the innovative Samsung Galaxy ecosystem services, such as the Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9+, coupled with the Gear 360, the Gear VR and unique 360 degrees content.

Easy access with the help of sponsors!

Participants traveled to “Santorini Experience”, with the official airline partner of the event, Ryanair, which offered the connection of Athens with Santorini with direct flights from abroad. The Greek leading shipping company Blue Star Ferries as a sponsor of the event facilitated the ferry connection offering a 50% discount on the ferry tickets and the participants’ vehicles, assisting a total of Greek and foreign athletes while offering an additional discount on the connection with the Cyclades and Dodecanese group of islands, resulting in participations from the islands of Paros, Naxos, Amorgos, Rhodes and others. Ford Motor Hellas promoted sports and “fair play” by participating for the 4 th year in the support team of “Santorini Experience”. Athletes and organizers moved with the safety and efficient Ford Motor Hellas cars, the official sponsor of the event.

For another year Vikos SA as an official sponsor spread the message of sporting energy with the natural mineral water “Vikos”, offering the necessary hydration and revitalization to all participants. The natural mineral water “Vikos” offers the necessary balance, well-being and energy that the athletes need during their exercise in order to be able to continue their efforts.
The organization innovated with its collaboration for the first time with Luanvi, the leading company in the sportswear industry in Spain. As the event’s official sports supplier, Luanvi offered an extremely innovative sports T-shirt to all participants.

The event received a very substantial support and assistance from its official sponsors Alafouzos Sport, Athina Luxury Suites and Santo Maris Oia Luxury Suites & Spa. Official supporters of the event were Santorini Hoteliers Association, Meltemi Hotels & Resorts, Aqua Vista Hotels, Boatmen Union Santorini and Avance Rent A Car. DNA Travel, as the official transport partner of the event, facilitated the transportation of
all participants and volunteers of “Santorini Experience”. National Geographic was the official strategic partner of the event.

The event was assisted by Lifeguard Patrol, Assyrtico Wine Restaurant Café, Hellenic Recovery Recycling Corporation and the Department of Sports Organization & Management from University of Peloponnese.

The event received the support of the following hospitality sponsors: Santorini Hoteliers Association, Meltemi Hotels & Resorts, Athina Luxury Suites, Santo Maris Oia Luxury Suites & Spa, Aqua Vista Hotels, Canaves Oia, Santo Houses, West East Suites, Desiterra Luxury Suites & Villas, 270 Oia’s View, Fanouris Condo, Monolithia, Casa Iphigenia, Sienna Resort, Esperas Santorini and Loizos Stylish Residencies.

VitaNTravel, as the official travel agent of the event, took care and assisted all athletes and escorts with information about the ferry routes, ferry tickets, car rentals and accommodation “Santorini Experience” is a co-organization of Municipality of Santorini, Municipal Sports Cultural Environmental Organization of Santorini (DAPPOS) and Active Media Group. The event was held under the auspices of the Greek National Tourism Organization and approved by the Hellenic Swimming Federation. 

Official Technology Partner: Samsung
Official Airline Partner: Ryanair
Official Sports Supplier: Luanvi
Official Sponsors: Ford Motor Hellas, Natural Mineral Water “Vikos”, Blue Star Ferries, Alafouzos Sport, Athina Luxury Suites, Santo Maris Oia Luxury Suites & Spa Official Supporters: Santorini Hoteliers Association, Meltemi Hotels & Resorts, Aqua Vista Hotels, Boatmen Union Santorini, Avance Rent A Car
Official Transport Partner: DNA Travel
Strategic Partner: National Geographic
Assisted by: Lifeguard Patrol, Assyrtico Wine Restaurant Café, Hellenic Recovery Recycling Corporation, Voluntary Lifeguards of Santorini, Mediterranean Dive Club Atlantis Dive Center,, Santorini Nautical Club, Department of Sports Organization & Management from University of
Peloponnese
Hospitality Sponsors: Santorini Hoteliers Association, Meltemi Hotels & Resorts, Athina Luxury Suites, Santo Maris Oia Luxury Suites & Spa, Aqua Vista Hotels, Canaves Oia, Santo Houses, West East Suites, Desiterra Luxury Suites & Villas, 270 Oia’s View, Fanouris Condo, Monolithia, Casa Iphigenia, Sienna Resort, Esperas Santorini, Loizos Stylish Residencies
Official travel agent: VitaNTravel

Photo credit: Elias Lefas
Four to 20 hours by sea. This is the length of the journey that is required, in some cases, for a simple medical examination. This is a reality faced by thousands of Greek people living on remote islands and hard to access regions of the country. The minimal health infrastructure and lack of medical specialists in close proximity compel them to make long journeys to get the appropriate medical care.
 
The question was simple, could a hospital travel to the country’s most remote areas, enabling the locals to access to a wide variety of medical services? Even though, at first, the idea seemed impossible to implement, the Mobile Medical Units (MMU) program was created in 2014 at the initiative of and with the exclusive support of the SNF. The program is implemented by the NGO Regeneration & Progress in collaboration with Health Units S.A., under the auspices of the Ministry of Health and the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens.
 
Once a month a group of physicians, qualified nurses, and technical staff leave their families and put their personal obligations behind in order to provide their services and to ensure that more people have free access to comprehensive health services.
 
Since the program was created in 2014, 39 missions have taken place in areas such as Kastelorizo, Kasos, Tilos, Agios Efstratios, Agrafa, Anafi, and Schinoussa. More than 13.600 patients have been examined and 23,968 medical tests have taken place.
 
Watch this inspiring video about the significance of giving back to the community and working selflessly for the common good.
 


To read this article in full, please visit: snf.org
Quarantine No 2 is a reality. Now even younger children do their schooling online. "I was so happy elementary schools were operating as usual," one of my clients with two children in elementary school told me. "I thought they wouldn't close down. I'm not at all sure I will be able to handle having both my children and my husband at home again."

Sounds familiar? If so, you are not alone. You are not the only one facing this awkward situation. Welcome to the group of those who already know how bad it will be and are getting stressed out. But you can choose to change sides if you want. Wouldn't it be great if you were among those who accept the situation and strive to make the best out of it? I believe I can see your next question coming: “How am I going to handle the situation when my partner is a very difficult person and having children at home all day makes things even harder?"

I get you. Yes, you already have negative thoughts that consequently create negative emotions and then you start complaining. Your behavior is affected, everyone’s behavior is affected, and the vicious cycle never ends. Relationships are hard enough as is, but a 24-hour cohabitation without breaks is even harder. We've learned about it the hard way during the previous quarantine. When dealing with difficult people we often become aggressive because we feel we have to defend our position and our beliefs. And so the conflict starts.

Let me share a little secret with you: More often than not, the behavior of these people is only about themselves and not you! Yes, that's right, it's about them! So here's a thought: What if you look at it differently? If you avoid taking it personally, your emotional reaction will be milder, the tension will de-escalate, and you will avoid potential conflict. Can you imagine how much better your cohabitation and relationships would get?

How about carrying a small experiment for the next few days? Choose the relationship that concerns you the most and make an effort not to take things personally whenever you can. Start with simple situations and see the difference in yourself first and then in others.

ypografi-nadia-georgiou-eng.jpg

If there’s a topic you’re interested in and would like to learn more about you may contact me via email. For more information about me and my work check the XpatAthens Directory or visit my website. Because this is your life!

Thursday, 14 October 2021 07:00

New Tram Service Ready To Start In Piraeus

A new tram service set to initially connect the port of Piraeus with Neo Faliro is scheduled to take off next month, said Deputy Infrastructure and Transport Minister George Karagiannis this week
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Speaking on SKAI radio, the minister admitted there were problems but went on to say that the government was committed to resolving issues and moving ahead with the tram, which “starts its routes to Piraeus in November. It will run a circular route from Neo Faliro with 12 new stations. Virtually the whole of Piraeus will be served.

Karagiannis said the ministry was implementing a comprehensive transportation and traffic plan, and also announced the creation of a transportation observatory.

Among others, work was proceeding for the completion of the Metro line to Athens International Airport from Piraeus.

By the summer of 2022, in July, all three remaining stations will be ready – Piraeus, Municipal Theater, and Maniatika [stations]. So, the largest port in the country will be connected to the airport in under 50 minutes,” he said, adding that it will help ease traffic and improve the quality of life.

In this direction, the minister went on to refer to other transport infrastructure projects including the completion of the Western Egaleo ring-road, the extension of the suburban railway (proastiakos), the extension of the Metro towards western Athens suburb Ilion, the upgrade of the Athens-Corinth roadway as well as the extension of the Attiki Odos motorway towards Kymis Avenue.

Referring to Athens Metro Line 4 budgeted at 1.2 billion euros and funded by EU resources to cover the transportation needs of some 340,000 people daily, the minister said it will change the commuting habits in Attica.

Lastly, Karagiannis said a strategy was being drawn up to address traffic congestion in the center of Athens. Under the odd/even traffic regulation system dubbed the “green daktylios”, cars will be allowed entry into the city center based on plate number with the exception of electric vehicles.

Originally published on: news.gtp.gr
Monday, 16 December 2024 14:21

Traditional Christmas Customs In Greece

Christmas in Greece is a vibrant tapestry of customs and rituals steeped in history and tradition. From kalanda to festive family dinners, there are numerous practices that highlight the country’s deep cultural roots and festive spirit. 





1. The Christmas Boat (Karavaki)

A Christmas tree stands in a dinghy at night

One of the most distinctive symbols of Christmas in Greece is the decorated boat, or “karavaki.” In coastal and island communities, boats are adorned with lights and ornaments, a tradition that predates the introduction of Christmas trees. This custom reflects Greece’s maritime heritage and serves as a tribute to sailors and the sea. Today, while Christmas trees have become popular, the karavaki remains a beloved symbol, especially in island regions such as the Cyclades and Dodecanese.

2. The Burning of the Christmas Log (Christoxylo)

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Known as “christoxylo,” this tradition involves burning a large log in the fireplace throughout the twelve days of Christmas (December 25 to January 6). The log symbolizes warmth, light, and protection from evil spirits. This practice has its origins in pre-Christian solstice rituals, which celebrated the return of longer days and the renewal of life.

3. Kallikantzaroi: The Mischievous Goblins

La Befana Italy 1024x683.jpg

According to Greek folklore, the twelve days of Christmas are a time when “kallikantzaroi,” or mischievous goblins, emerge from the underworld to wreak havoc. These impish creatures are said to cause trouble in homes and villages. To ward them off, families burn incense, hang garlic by their doors, or leave colanders outside. The belief is that the goblins, obsessed with counting, will waste time counting the holes in the colander until sunrise chases them away.

4. The Feast of Agios Vasilis (Saint Basil)

lighten bag

In Greece, New Year’s Day is dedicated to Saint Basil (Agios Vasilis), a figure similar to Santa Claus. Families bake a special cake called “vassilopita,” which contains a hidden coin. During the cutting of the cake, slices are distributed to family members, with one piece reserved for the house and another for the poor. Whoever finds the coin in their slice is believed to have good fortune in the coming year.

5. Epiphany & the Blessing of the Waters

Piraeus, Attica / Greece - January 6 2019: Aerial drone photo of famous Christian ceremony of Epiphany in small port of Aphrodite, with iconic small chapel of Agios Nikolaos

Epiphany, or “Theofania,” is celebrated on January 6 and marks the baptism of Christ. A central event of this day is the blessing of the waters. Priests bless rivers, lakes, or seas by throwing a cross into the water. Young men dive in to retrieve the cross, and the one who retrieves it is said to receive special blessings for the year. This tradition underscores the importance of water in Greek culture and its symbolism of purification and renewal.

6. Evil Spirits & Protective Rituals

Fresh pomegranates on the wooden table: flat lay

To protect their homes from kallikantzaroi and other malevolent forces, Greek families practice several rituals. Burning incense, breaking pomegranate, lighting candles, and leaving food offerings are common practices. These rituals harken back to ancient pagan customs that sought to harmonize the natural and supernatural worlds.

7. Traditional Foods & Festive Feasts

Greek biscuits baked and served at Christmas time

Greek Christmas celebrations are also marked by an array of delicious foods that vary by region. Common dishes include:
  • Christopsomo (Christ’s Bread): A special bread decorated with symbols of the family’s livelihood.
  • Melomakarona: Honey-dipped cookies spiced with cinnamon and cloves.
  • Kourabiedes: Almond shortbread cookies dusted with powdered sugar.
  • Roast Lamb or Pork: Often the centerpiece of the Christmas Day meal.
  • Vasilopita: The New Year’s cake, baked in honor of Saint Basil.
These foods not only nourish the body but also serve as offerings of gratitude and symbols of abundance.

The Spirit of Greek Christmas Today

While some traditions have evolved or faded over time, many of these customs remain central to Greek Christmas celebrations. They are a testament to the country’s ability to blend ancient and Christian practices into a cohesive and meaningful holiday season. For Greeks, Christmas is not just a time for gift-giving and feasting but also an opportunity to honor their heritage, strengthen family bonds, and welcome blessings for the year ahead.
Wednesday, 18 February 2015 13:01

Sightseeing On The Island of Thassos

Thassos is believed to have been named after Thassos, the son or grandson of Aginoras, the king of Phoenicia. Thassos went to the island in search or Europe and he established himself there as its first king. Other ancient sources claim other names for the island, such as “Hieria”, by her chill summer breeze, “Athria”, by her clear sky, “Coast of Goddess Demetra”, by her fertile ground or “Dasos”, meaning forest in Greek, from the many forests on the island.

Thassos Ancient Town

Right next to Thassos town lay the remnants of Thassos ancient settlement which had two ports, the military one, closed to public and ships other than military ships, and the commercial one, used for the town’s commercial activities. The Agora, the cornerstone of politics, administration and economic activities is among the most important findings on the island. The findings number various statues, sculptures and inscriptions of great value most of which are exhibited today at the Museum of Louvre as the excavations that brought them to light was conducted in 1911 by the Archeological Faculty of France. The ancient Odeon and the ancient theatre, the sanctuary of Zeus and Artemis are also among the principal parts of the site.

Olives and Olive Oil Museum

Right outside the settlement of Skala Prinos is located this newly established and pretty interesting museum, paying a tribute to the miraculous products of olive trees! An initiative of a local bio-oil business, the museum hosts a space where a representation of oil production takes place, a photography exhibition space, a part where all types of oils are exhibited (around 40 from the 130 different types that are known up today), a projections’ space and finally the olive products exhibition, where you will be able to taste and buy anything you like!Kalogeriko

Kalogeriko is a historical building standing out from all the other buildings at the centre of the ancient port of Thassos. Is was built at the end of the 19th century and nowadays it hosts various cultural exhibitions and galleries of Greek and foreign artists. You should absolutely visit it and admire its architecture.

Potamia

A small traditional village located on the eastern part of the island, very near Panagia and Chrisi Akti. Potamia is built on the foot of Mountain Ypsarion and it consists in beautiful small houses with stone walls and wooden roofs. Potamia is ideal for hiking as here exist various paths that enter the mountain in a scenery of lush vegetation and total serenity.

Kazavitia

The Small and Large Kazaviti (Small and Large Prinos) villages are found in the north central part of the island and are, without a doubt, among the most beautiful and picturesque villages of the island. Small and narrow stone paved alleys, stone built houses with wooden terraces and balconies and painted ceilings, the scenery here will definitely take you back in time. Though both of the villages have seen very glorious times in the past, when the inhabitants stayed and worked here, protected by the pirates that raged the lowland and seaside settlements, nowadays are rather abandoned. Still standing here are the remnants of an old school that contributed greatly to the island’s history, the old mansion houses and churches. The perfect place to relax in the sound of nature and running waters and have a lunch or coffee at the Large Kazaviti’s central square.

Kastro

On one of the tops of mount Ypsarion, right in the heart of the island, lies the oldest settlement of the island, Kastro (meaning “castle” in Greek). Its inhabitants were here protected from the pirates till most of them left the village to work to the mines of a foreign company and transferred their settlement at Limenaria. The village used to be the place where they spent their holidays but during the recent years many attempts to restore the village have taken place with remarkable results!

We could keep on describing the island’s magnificent villages but it would be better for you to explore them in person making sure you will not leave aside Panagia, Kinira, Astris and Themonia.

Source: Cycladia.com

 

Thursday, 19 February 2015 14:12

Varoufakis Expects Deal With Eurozone

Greek Finance Minister Yanis Varoufakis has told Kathimerini that a deal between Greece and the eurozone will be found, even at the last minute, as he prepares for Monday’s Eurogroup.

“Developments over the last few days have given me a significant degree of hope that, despite the differences, there is an appetite on both sides for finding common ground between the previous program and a new agreement between Europe and Greece that will put and end to the self-perpetuating crisis and will create a relationship of trust between us and our partners,” said Varoufakis ahead of his second meeting with his eurozone counterparts.

Wednesday’s Eurogroup ended without agreement as Greece objected to the wording of a common statement that suggested the current program would be extended. Athens wanted it to be clear that the bailout was being amended.

However, technical teams from Greece and its three lenders, the European Commission, the European Central Bank and the International Monetary Fund began talks on Friday with the aim of preparing the ground for Monday’s negotiations. Kathimerini understands that another, extra, Eurogroup meeting may be held on Friday if there is no agreement on Monday.

In his interview with Kathimerini, Varoufakis refused to speculate how close the two sides are to an agreement.

“Our resolute stance on totally logical matters will, in the final analysis, lead to a mutually beneficial convergence, even at the 11th hour,” he said.

To read more, please visit ekathimerini.com

 

Wednesday, 24 June 2015 07:00

Fishing Tourism Given The Green Light

It is one of the most emblematic images of Greece and a favorite for shutterbugs from around the world visiting the islands in the summer: the typical Greek fisherman, seen on a colorful wooden caique casting his nets in the sea, carefully untangling them at the harbor where he comes in every morning to sell his catch or setting off at night to the light of the stars and dozens of small lights strung on the mast of his boat. The world of the professional Greek fisherman has always been a source of wonderment and mystery and now it is open to everyone.

After years of legal and political wrangling, legislation has finally been passed setting the terms and conditions for the development of fishing tourism in Greece – an area of tourism that holds great promise and had been largely untapped. Thanks to the new regulations, professional fishermen can apply for a license that will allow them to take passengers either on pleasure trips or fishing excursions. This not only allows fishermen – already squeezed by competition and over-fishing – to supplement their incomes but also offers a rare opportunity to fans of fishing or people who simply love the sea to enter a completely different world and discover its secrets.

Hundreds of professional fishermen have already applied for the license and are waiting for the coveted piece of paper before the tourism season gets under way in earnest.

“There is a great deal of interest being shown all over the country. The fishermen have been asking for this measure for years and particularly in areas that have a lot of tourism, as this will make it easy for them to have a second source of income. Most fishermen can’t even cover the cost of petrol the way things are right now,” says Giorgos Lourdis, a mechanical engineer by trade but a fisherman at heart, who for years has been trying to promote fishing tourism in Greece.

To read more, please visit: ekathimerini
by
Lina Giannarou

If you have kids, then you must know how important it is to get them to go outside and run off some steam. Of course, it's an added bonus when you can enjoy a coffee and a snack while they play! Here are some unique places that your kids will love, but will also give you some 'parental relaxation' time. In other words, these places are great for both children and parents - enjoy!



Do you know a great place and want to share it with us?
Send us an email at ideas@xpatathens.com and we'll add it to the list!
 
1. Funmily - Marousi

Who doesn't enjoy the idea of having their coffee next to a fire place? At Funmily parents have the chance to start off with a hot drink and continue with delicious snacks. Meanwhile, children are busy playing indoors in areas speacially designed for them, together with the specially trained staff of the restaurant. In short, at "Funmily" you have child safety, ease and comfort while sitting at your own table.


Address: Pentelis 114, Marousi
Telephone: 210 810 5300
Website (in Greek)

2. Koralli - Kallithea

Delicious dishes, fast service and affordable prices make Koralli stand out. The specialties of this traditional Greek mezedopolio are its sea food dishes, but if you or the kids are not fish lovers you can also enjoy classic dishes of Greek cuisine. The big advantage at Koralli is the indoor playground, where the kids can play for hours!

Address: Agamemnonas & Kolokotroni 19, Kallithea, 
17675
Telephone: 210 941 8472
Website (in Greek)

3
. Pisina - Piraeus

The famous landmark cafe and restautant called Pisina in Piraeus, is a perfect place to enjoy a coffee or sit down for lunch after a walk along the sea. On the lower level of Pisina there is a playground for younger children and electronic games for older kids.

Address: Akti Themistokleous 25, Pireaus
Telephone: 210 451 1324
Website (in Greek)


4
. Balux Café - Glyfada

A great spot all year around in the south is Balux Café at the Asteras complex in Glyfada. This warm and welcoming place will make you feel like home from the moment you walk in. Whether indoors during winter or outdoors during the summer, this is an ideal spot to enjoy coffee, lunch or dinner all the while your kids release their energy in the large playground available.

Address: 58 Posidonos Av., Athens, Asteras Glyfadas Complex
Telephone: 210 898 3577
Website


5
. Tritsi Environmental Awareness Park - Ilion

Coffee and outdoor exploration is the perfect combination at Tritsi Park in northern Athens. It is an ideal place to visit on a sunny Sunday morning and is great for nature lovers, both young and old. The kids can play whatever game they wish in natual surroundings and there are cafe options with light snacks and beverages for the whole family. There are often
educational programs organized in the park for you and your children to enjoy together.

Address: Ilion 131 22
Website (in Greek)

Originally published in Greek on: Mama365
Translated by XpatAthens
Thursday, 07 April 2016 07:00

The Most Beautiful Beaches In Greece

With the summer season quickly approaching, many people are planning their beach holiday, and with over 6,000 islands and islets, Greece is a perfect place to start. Every traveler has specific guidelines to what makes the perfect beach, but with so many to choose from, it may seem like an overwhelming task. Luckily, there's already a list of the most luxurious beaches in Greece, all of which are known for their sand, surf, history, and hidden locations.

The list includes:

Navagio Beach, Zakynthos
Sarakiniko, Milos
Porto Katsiki, Lefkada
Lalaria, Skiathos
Balos Beach and Lagoon, Crete
St Paul’s Bay, Rhodes
Myrtos, Kefalonia
Voidokoilia, Messinia

To read the full descriptions, please visit: Condé Nast Traveler
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