Address: 36 Loukianou & Spefsippou, 106 75 Kolonaki, Athens
Telephone: 213 0263656
Image Credit: Stinking Bishop
XpatAthens
Thursday, 27 June 2024 23:40
Unlocking Your Inner Entrepreneur: How Holidays In Greece Can Fuel Your Inspiration
Summer is the ideal time to relax, rejuvenate, and find inspiration for your entrepreneurial dreams. Greece, with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, offers the perfect setting to unlock your inner entrepreneur and fuel your creative ambitions. Here’s how you can make the most of your holiday in Greece to inspire and drive your entrepreneurial journey.
1. Immersing in Natural Beauty
The Inspiration of the Greek Islands
The Greek islands, provide a serene backdrop that can help clear your mind and spark new ideas. Spending time in nature, whether it's on a tranquil beach or a scenic hike, allows you to step back from your daily routine, providing the mental space needed for creative thinking and problem-solving.
The Tranquility of the Mainland
For those who prefer the mountains or quieter mainland regions, places like the Peloponnese and the Pindus Mountains offer peaceful environments that are perfect for reflection. The quiet solitude of these areas can help you connect with your inner thoughts and generate innovative business ideas.
2. Drawing Lessons from History
Ancient Sites as Catalysts for Modern Ideas
Greece’s rich history and ancient sites are treasure troves of wisdom and inspiration. Visiting landmarks such as the Acropolis, the Temple of Apollo at Delphi, or the ancient theater of Epidaurus can provide insights into resilience, leadership, and strategic thinking. Reflecting on the achievements of ancient civilizations can inspire modern entrepreneurial strategies and visions.
Reading Ancient Philosophers
Take a book by an ancient Greek philosopher to the beach or a quiet terrace. As you read the words of Plato, or Aristotle, gaze at the ocean and its infinite fluidity, reflecting on how their timeless wisdom can be applied to your modern-day challenges. The depth of their thoughts can unlock new perspectives and inspire profound insights into your business and personal life.
Museums and Cultural Heritage
Exploring museums like the National Archaeological Museum in Athens or the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion in Crete offers a deep dive into Greece’s cultural heritage. The stories and artifacts from different eras highlight human ingenuity and adaptability, qualities that are essential for any entrepreneur. Let the creativity and innovation of the past fuel your own entrepreneurial spirit.
3. Networking with Local Entrepreneurs
Engaging with Greece's Startup Scene
Greece is home to a vibrant community of startups and innovative businesses. Attending local business events, workshops, and networking sessions can provide valuable opportunities to connect with like-minded entrepreneurs. Sharing experiences and learning from local success stories can offer new perspectives and practical advice for your own ventures.
Learning from Local Business Practices
Greek businesses, whether they are traditional family-owned enterprises or modern tech startups, offer unique insights into customer service, product development, and market adaptation. Observing and engaging with these businesses can provide lessons that you can apply to your entrepreneurial journey.
4. Cultivating Creativity
Artistic & Culinary Exploration
Greece’s rich artistic heritage and culinary traditions are perfect for sparking creativity. Visit local art galleries, attend cultural festivals, or take part in a cooking class to immerse yourself in Greek culture. The creativity you encounter in these activities can inspire innovative thinking and new business ideas.
Embracing the Greek Way of Life
Greek culture emphasizes a balanced lifestyle, valuing both hard work and leisure. Embrace this approach by taking time to relax, socialize, and enjoy life. This balance can lead to better mental clarity, increased creativity, and improved problem-solving abilities.
5. Rejuvenating Your Mind & Body
Wellness Retreats & Relaxation
Greece offers numerous wellness retreats, spas, and yoga centers where you can rejuvenate both your mind and body. Taking time to relax and recharge is essential for maintaining the energy and motivation needed for entrepreneurial success. Wellness activities can help clear mental blockages and provide a fresh perspective on your goals.
Outdoor Adventures
Engaging in outdoor activities, such as hiking, sailing, or diving, not only boosts your physical health but also stimulates your mind. The sense of adventure and exploration can translate into a more dynamic and innovative approach to your business ventures.
1. Immersing in Natural Beauty
The Inspiration of the Greek Islands
The Greek islands, provide a serene backdrop that can help clear your mind and spark new ideas. Spending time in nature, whether it's on a tranquil beach or a scenic hike, allows you to step back from your daily routine, providing the mental space needed for creative thinking and problem-solving.
The Tranquility of the Mainland
For those who prefer the mountains or quieter mainland regions, places like the Peloponnese and the Pindus Mountains offer peaceful environments that are perfect for reflection. The quiet solitude of these areas can help you connect with your inner thoughts and generate innovative business ideas.
2. Drawing Lessons from History
Ancient Sites as Catalysts for Modern Ideas
Greece’s rich history and ancient sites are treasure troves of wisdom and inspiration. Visiting landmarks such as the Acropolis, the Temple of Apollo at Delphi, or the ancient theater of Epidaurus can provide insights into resilience, leadership, and strategic thinking. Reflecting on the achievements of ancient civilizations can inspire modern entrepreneurial strategies and visions.
Reading Ancient Philosophers
Take a book by an ancient Greek philosopher to the beach or a quiet terrace. As you read the words of Plato, or Aristotle, gaze at the ocean and its infinite fluidity, reflecting on how their timeless wisdom can be applied to your modern-day challenges. The depth of their thoughts can unlock new perspectives and inspire profound insights into your business and personal life.
Museums and Cultural Heritage
Exploring museums like the National Archaeological Museum in Athens or the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion in Crete offers a deep dive into Greece’s cultural heritage. The stories and artifacts from different eras highlight human ingenuity and adaptability, qualities that are essential for any entrepreneur. Let the creativity and innovation of the past fuel your own entrepreneurial spirit.
3. Networking with Local Entrepreneurs
Engaging with Greece's Startup Scene
Greece is home to a vibrant community of startups and innovative businesses. Attending local business events, workshops, and networking sessions can provide valuable opportunities to connect with like-minded entrepreneurs. Sharing experiences and learning from local success stories can offer new perspectives and practical advice for your own ventures.
Learning from Local Business Practices
Greek businesses, whether they are traditional family-owned enterprises or modern tech startups, offer unique insights into customer service, product development, and market adaptation. Observing and engaging with these businesses can provide lessons that you can apply to your entrepreneurial journey.
4. Cultivating Creativity
Artistic & Culinary Exploration
Greece’s rich artistic heritage and culinary traditions are perfect for sparking creativity. Visit local art galleries, attend cultural festivals, or take part in a cooking class to immerse yourself in Greek culture. The creativity you encounter in these activities can inspire innovative thinking and new business ideas.
Embracing the Greek Way of Life
Greek culture emphasizes a balanced lifestyle, valuing both hard work and leisure. Embrace this approach by taking time to relax, socialize, and enjoy life. This balance can lead to better mental clarity, increased creativity, and improved problem-solving abilities.
5. Rejuvenating Your Mind & Body
Wellness Retreats & Relaxation
Greece offers numerous wellness retreats, spas, and yoga centers where you can rejuvenate both your mind and body. Taking time to relax and recharge is essential for maintaining the energy and motivation needed for entrepreneurial success. Wellness activities can help clear mental blockages and provide a fresh perspective on your goals.
Outdoor Adventures
Engaging in outdoor activities, such as hiking, sailing, or diving, not only boosts your physical health but also stimulates your mind. The sense of adventure and exploration can translate into a more dynamic and innovative approach to your business ventures.
Published in
Tips & Advice
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Thursday, 05 February 2015 13:21
My Week in Athens… Sep 27
I can’t believe it’s almost October… Seriously , it’s three months until Christmas! But this week I notice that ‘smell’ of autumn – and I don’t mind one bit. Strikes? Yup. Rain? Yup. Cooler weather? Yup. Am I bothered? Nope.
Turns out I stayed close to home most of the past week. My little Nespresso machine had a good workout – it was a week of catching up with friends, and ‘hangin out’.
At one point, the downstairs buzzer rang. When I opened the door, I was surprised to see my Greek aunt standing in front of me. She had once again driven the hour-long journey from the village, and now stood in front of me with a big smile and her hands full of bags. I said “Wow! What are you doing here?!” She replied as she pushed past me into the kitchen, “Since you don’t come to the village to eat, I brought the food to you! Now, where are your plates?”
We had a really nice meal together, chatted about this or that, (she!) washed the dishes (after literally pushing me out of the kitchen), and off she went…
This is a true story. It really made my day – and I know it really made her day too. Was nice to catch up with everyone this week...
P.S. Uninvited guests with food are welcome, anytime. ;)
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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Tuesday, 12 February 2019 07:00
Stinking Bishop: The Gastropub Named After A Smelly Cheese
Named after a smelly British cheese, Stinking Bishop is one of the most unique bars/gastropubs in Athens. Located in the upscale Kolonaki area, Stinking Bishop is mostly frequented by local residents and people who work nearby. Its decoration is warm and welcoming, and its small size accentuates the sense of intimacy–there’s only 3 tables and a long counter so make sure to book your table well in advance.
Expect to try some carefully selected cheeses from Greece, France, Holland and England, delicious cold cuts, as well as a few salads and tasty main courses.
Stinking Bishop offers an extensive wine list of approximately 50 different labels, several of which are also served by the glass. The friendly and courteous staff will help you pair your food with the ideal wine!
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Pubs, Bars & Cafes
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Wednesday, 18 February 2015 16:05
ICAP: Women in Greece Are Becoming More Successful
We may be living in an era where real equality between men and women has yet to be achieved, however a recent research by ICAP showed some positive signs. According to a report from Greek newspaper “Ta Nea”, the number of women working in management positions at Greek companies rose to 21% in 2013 from 19% in 2012, noted the research which is conducted annually by ICAP and published in the “Leading Women in Business”.
The research was presented during an event entitled “High Heels on High Hills” organized by ICAP Group for the second consecutive year. According to ICAP Group’s CEO Nikitas Konstantellos, Greek companies should utilize female staff and establish clear objectives. This year’s event included three thematic sections.
The first section analyzed the best practices followed by three companies in Greece: EMC Hellas, Xerox Hellas and Microsoft Hellas, on facilitating the advancement of women in business.
To read more, please visit greekreporter.com
By Ioanna Zikakou
Published in
Local News
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Friday, 20 February 2015 20:23
Skordalia - The Greek Garlic Dip
Skordalia, the Greek garlic dip, belongs to the grand tradition of Mediterranean garlic pastes and like them, it is almost never served alone; instead, it plays an accompanying role to fried fish and seafood or to classics like boiled beets.
While there are as many methods for frying salt cod as there are cooks who fry it, skordalia variations tend to follow a regional vein. I have always been impressed by the wealth of regional expressions when it comes to this simple peasant dish, as well as to the ritual that often goes into its preparation.
Garlic, olive oil, and salt are the constants in all Greek skordalia recipes, but the base, acid, and consistency vary from place to place. Dried bread, boiled potatoes, and nuts, especially almonds, pine nuts or walnuts, may all be used as the base of this pungent specialty, either alone or together with stale bread or potatoes. One recipe, from the Peloponnese, calls for starchy chestnuts. Fresh lemon juice, fish stock or broth, and vinegar are the liquids that help balance the final flavors. At least one version, a traditional recipe of the Asia Minor Greeks, calls for pistachios; the skordalia of Nea Marmara in Halkidiki is made with feta and mint; one delicious, obscure recipe popular in the traditional shepherd’s cooking of the Greeks who came to Greece from the Black Sea, is made with almonds, yogurt and vinegar.
Connoisseurs of skordalia know that a certain ritual is part and practice of its preparation. I will never forget once walking in on an old caterer friend who was making skordalia for a party—by hand, potato by potato, drop by drop of olive oil, pinch by pinch of salt, in a mortar, pounding each potato with the pestle with zenlike rhythm. To this day, the mortar and pestle are the best tools for making skordalia because they allow for the control of speed with which one breaks down the starch in the potatoes or bread that most commonly make up the base. A food processor’s blade is too swift and violent and results in a gummy skordalia. Unless the potatoes are cold, which is the advice of the family fry master, who, between dipping chunks of salt cod in his secret batter and frying them with the patience of Jove, he also sometimes takes a stand near the mixer, making the dish in question. Cold potatoes don’t break down as easily, it turns out, as hot ones. But they also don’t absorb oil as easily.
Aliada
In the Ionian islands, skordalia is called aliada, clearly an Italian sounding word and once that evinces vincing the influence that 200 hundred or so years of Venetian administration over these islands brought to their cookery.
Perhaps nowhere is the certainty of ritual more obvious than in the old cooks of Cephalonia, where the island’s aliada is made with rules developed over centuries. Mortar and pestle are de rigueur, the vessel and mechanism by which the first steps in the making of skordalia are taken as the cook pounds garlic cloves and salt to a smooth paste. In a separate plate, traditionally made of wood or fired clay, she mashes boiled potatoes either with the pestle or with a fist-sized smooth stone. A pot nearby contains salt cod that’s been soaked and is now simmering to further desalt it. Its broth provides the gustatory undertones and depth of flavor in the final aliada and is added to the garlic and salt, to be followed by a few spoonfuls of partially mashed potatoes. Slowly, step by step and increment by increment, each of these ingredients is wedded to the final, smooth and silky potato-based aliada which is partnered with crispy fried salt cod or other small, fried fish.
By Diane Kochilas
Published in
Greek Food & Diet
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Wednesday, 20 May 2015 19:53
Greece To Be Shown "All Over" The World For The Second Year
Greek culture, products and social entrepreneurship will be showcased all around the world from May 22 until May 31 through the 2nd “Greece All Over” International Festival.
“This is a one-week celebration of Hellenism in various countries around the world to demonstrate that Greeks can and want to work together”, organizer Ellada Pantou (Greece All Over) said in an announcement.
The “Greece All Over” festival is a collaborative celebration filled with music, poetry, dance, art exhibitions, gastronomy, product presentations, charitable actions and more which will take place in Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Germany, Greece, Ireland, China, Malaysia, Norway and The Netherlands.
Published in
Greece In The News
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Wednesday, 05 October 2016 03:25
August 30 - Back Into The Swing Of Things
Jump into Autumn with amazing pictures of Greece from above, awesome Greek food experiences, and exploring a hip neighborhood in Athens!
Please click HERE to view this issue of our newsletter!
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Newsletters
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Thursday, 09 June 2022 11:00
5 Greek Islands For A Relaxing Family Holiday
Greece is the ultimate summer holiday destination, with stunning beaches, Mediterranean cuisine, unique shopping, and incredible experiences. No matter what type of holiday you dream of, the perfect island awaits, be it the iconic Mykonos for endless partying or the hippie island of Ikaria for ultimate relaxation.
But what happens when you're traveling with kids? Is Greece a family-friendly destination? The answer is YES! Greece is a fantastic destination for a family holiday. And, since Greece's unbelievable coastline may make it a bit hard to choose where to go, here's a list of our top 5 islands for the perfect family vacation!
Sifnos
@anna_sarika
But what happens when you're traveling with kids? Is Greece a family-friendly destination? The answer is YES! Greece is a fantastic destination for a family holiday. And, since Greece's unbelievable coastline may make it a bit hard to choose where to go, here's a list of our top 5 islands for the perfect family vacation!
Sifnos
@anna_sarika
This is an island where you can look forward to lazy days watching your kids play on sheltered, shallow-water beaches followed by leisurely strolls along labyrinthine streets or remote pathways overlooking the sea. To eat you’ll find simple, traditional Mediterranean cooking at its finest: crisp chickpea patties, juicy tomato salads, and fresh seafood in familial village squares.
Paxos
@paxos_island_greece
@paxos_island_greece
Indeed, a classic way to holiday here is to rent a small boat and spend days swanning around, stopping off anywhere and everywhere to plunge into the cool depths, getting your land legs back just long enough for a spot of lunch before returning to aquatic adventuring. That’s not to say that there aren’t plenty of child-friendly beaches to kick back on, with sun loungers and umbrellas for rent.
Naxos
@victor_manolito
Naxos
@victor_manolito
Naxos, the largest island of the Cyclades, is definitely an ideal destination for families. It majestically combines long, sandy beaches with fertile valleys, stunning gorges, and a bit of history. Not to mention its delicious cuisine based on local products. Last but not least, Naxos incorporates the communities of four additional smaller isles, Donousa, Schoinousa, Iraklia, and Koufonisia, so you’ll get to enjoy a trip to an unspoiled paradise!
Alonnisos
@elaki26
On the edge of the Sporades archipelago lies the island of Alonissos, ready to captivate you with its green landscape and pristine beaches. The ideal destination for a relaxing holiday, there, you’ll find yourselves leisurely walking along scenic paths surrounded by pine forests, olive groves, and orchards. The island’s highlight is definitely its marine park, a refuge for rare seabirds, dolphins, and the Mediterranean monk seal, Monachus Monachus.
@elaki26
On the edge of the Sporades archipelago lies the island of Alonissos, ready to captivate you with its green landscape and pristine beaches. The ideal destination for a relaxing holiday, there, you’ll find yourselves leisurely walking along scenic paths surrounded by pine forests, olive groves, and orchards. The island’s highlight is definitely its marine park, a refuge for rare seabirds, dolphins, and the Mediterranean monk seal, Monachus Monachus.
Andros
@andros_secrets
@andros_secrets
So close to Athens yet so far away, Andros, the second-largest and the greenest island of the Cyclades, has everything you need for the ultimate vacation. With lush vegetation, deep blue waters, and rushing rivers, Andros’ breathtaking natural beauty makes it the perfect island for a tranquil holiday. If you love spending time as a family, there are numerous experiences awaiting from hiking along the well-marked trails to visiting world-class modern art museums!
Published in
Kids Life
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Monday, 01 April 2019 16:03
FokiaNou Art Space
FokiaNou Art Space is an artist-run project space in the intimacy of a small apartment in an old building in the center of Athens. The apartment has been transformed into an open space that encourages collaborative creative efforts between Greek and foreign artists and promotes and supports the local art community.
Founded in the spring of 2014 by the artist Blanka Amezkua with the name Fo Kia Nou 24/7, the space hosts exhibitions, workshops and projects under the current direction of two artists, Mary Cox and Panagiotis Voulgaris, who took over in the fall of 2016.
Founded in the spring of 2014 by the artist Blanka Amezkua with the name Fo Kia Nou 24/7, the space hosts exhibitions, workshops and projects under the current direction of two artists, Mary Cox and Panagiotis Voulgaris, who took over in the fall of 2016.
XpatAthens is proud to be a Non-Profit Sponsor of FokiaNou Art Space
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Art Galleries
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Tuesday, 05 December 2023 07:00
The Scent Of Christmas: 4 Athenian Cafes To Put You In Festive Mood
It's that time of the year again when friends and family gather around and give thanks and good tidings and cheer. It's a magical season; a season of joy, love, and happiness! If you find yourself in Athens this Christmas, make sure to visit the following cafes that go all-out for Christmas and are sure to get you into the holiday spirit.
Little Kook
@littlekook_
Little Kook
@littlekook_
Located in the heart of Athens, in the area of Psyrri, Little Kook is perfect for fairytale enthusiasts and dessert lovers. Little Kook serves a variety of delicious sweets and features dreamy decor. This well-known cafe is busy all year, but it shines even brighter during the holidays!
Location: Karaiskaki 17, Athina
Telephone: 210 3214144
Noel
@thenoelbar
Telephone: 210 3214144
Noel
@thenoelbar
Christmas is celebrated all year round in Noel! The cafe is tastefully adorned in a retro-vintage style, the music is delightful (mainly swing and jazz), and the food is outstanding. Noel is ideal for everything from early coffee and breakfast to late wining and dining. The atmosphere is as festive as it comes, and it is, without a doubt, one of the best places to be during the holiday season.
Location: Kolokotroni 59B, Athina
Telephone: 211 2159534
Fairytale
@fairytale_athens
Telephone: 211 2159534
Fairytale
@fairytale_athens
Do you believe in Christmas magic and fairytales? Then you must pay a visit to this location! The decorations are incredible; it's as if you've walked inside Hansel and Gretel's home! Desserts, on the other hand, are delightful. It's tough not to indulge in inventive and delectable treats.
Location: Leokoriou 16, Athina & Tripia 48, Nea Philadelphia
Telephone: 210 2582341
Cap Cap
@capcapgr
Location: Leokoriou 16, Athina & Tripia 48, Nea Philadelphia
Telephone: 210 2582341
Cap Cap
@capcapgr
Cap Cap, one of the best themed coffee shops in Athens and, actually the first one to open in the city, in Egaleo, is well hidden in the neighborhood's alleys but it is loved by the locals and widely renowned for its exquisite themed menu, especially the desserts, and magical décor. Harry Potter, Stranger Things, Christmas, Fantastic Beasts, Alladin and 90's are only few of the themes Cap Cap has hosted!
Location: Panormou 26, Egaleo
Telephone: 210 590 4116
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Pubs, Bars & Cafes
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