XpatAthens
Thursday, 16 December 2021 07:00
4 Steps To An Authentically Greek Christmas Dinner
It’s Christmas in Greece and there is no better way to celebrate than with a beautifully designed dinner party. As with any Greek tradition, the essential elements will include a joyful gathering of family and friends and a table full of delicious dishes that have been passed from generation to generation. These simple guidelines will help you create the perfect Greek Christmas dinner atmosphere!
Step 1. Be Sure to Decorate a Sail Boat
Greek tradition involves decorating a sailing boat instead of a tree for Christmas. This quintessential tradition originates from the Greek islands and symbolizes the safe return of seamen and their ships during the long and stormy winter months.
Step 2. Bring Nature Indoors & To Your Dinner Table
To add a modern and rustic feel to your Christmas dinner table, find some pine cones and scatter them around white pillar candles for an elegant and wintery Christmas decoration. Fold a napkin into a boat shape to match your Christmas boat decoration for a simple but chic place setting décor.
Step 3. Christmas Treats Dessert Bar
Baked treats of all kinds are an essential ingredient of Greek Christmas celebrations! Traditional desserts, such as diples, kourabiedes, kataifi and melomakarona, and baklava will surely satisfy your guests’ sweet tooth!
Step 4. Festive Drinks
A Christmas dinner party isn’t complete without a drink or two! For a traditional Greek Christmas drink, try warm wine infused with orange and cinnamon or oinomelo, a Greek alternative to mulled wine which is simply warm wine with honey. These enticing festive drinks will definitely keep your guests warm and their spirits high!
Step 4. Festive Drinks
A Christmas dinner party isn’t complete without a drink or two! For a traditional Greek Christmas drink, try warm wine infused with orange and cinnamon or oinomelo, a Greek alternative to mulled wine which is simply warm wine with honey. These enticing festive drinks will definitely keep your guests warm and their spirits high!
To read this article in full, please visit: mili-lo.com
Published in
Greek Traditions
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Monday, 11 June 2018 08:17
Oh Mama Brunch And Cocktails
Located in Glyfada on Kyprou street, Oh Mama is a laid-back brunch spot that seems to always be poppin' according to Athens Coast. With its cool decor, like those love-seat velvet bar stools, and its industrial flare, Oh Mama is definitely a brunch spot to check out this summer!
Oh Mama’s brunch is the real deal. Some menu items include chicken and waffles, fried eggs, hash browns, and of course, pancakes! The brunch menu is served from 10am-6pm, and then they switch to a dinner menu.
The prices are reasonable by Glyfada standards and the staff is attentive and friendly. Summer evenings here are perfect! But don’t be deterred to hit up Oh Mama in the cooler months, they enclose the patio area and there is a party going on inside all year long, with DJs performing on weekends.
Address: Kyprou 48
Telephone: 210 898 6049
To read this article in full, please visit: Athens Coast
Published in
Restaurants In Athens
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Monday, 03 September 2018 07:00
Top Things To Do In Athens This September 2018
As the city fills up once again and our summer memories still fresh...what are we saying?! It's still summer! Gather your family and friends and enjoy Athens this September with these indoor and outdoor festivities. It's time to celebrate the month of new beginnings!
With Athens fulfilling its title of the 2018 'World Book Capital,' Zappeion is hosting the 47th book festival that will feature a handful of interesting events! The festival has already started and will last through mid-September.
Book lovers unite! Venture on over to Radio Athènes, the Goethe Institute, and the Benaki Museum for the ultimate event. Greek and international publishers, authors, editors, and artists will present their work in lectures, talks, performances, and book signings!
The classic work of Zorba by Mikis Theodorakis and Lorca Massine, famous all over the world, is coming to Athens for a single magnificent performance. Reserve your tickets now!
Discover the traditional side of Greece by watching folk dances from every corner of the country. Or take a swing at learning a dance step or two yourself! From now until November.
Comicdom Press and the Hellenic American Union, in cooperation with the Hellenic American College are hosting the group comics and illustrations exhibition that will feature 83 Greek creators. Participating artists come from a wide range of styles and schools that will give visitors a chance to see a diverse range of creativity.
You know him, you love him. One special evening, one his 84th birthday, the Megaron Garden will celebrate Leonard Cohen with three young performing artists and musicians. This outdoor performance is sure to make for a memorable and enjoyable night!
Please click here to see more events in Athens.
Published in
City Discovery
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Tuesday, 02 April 2019 22:12
April 2 - Culture, History & Innovation
Athens always has something interesting tailored for everyone! From the Athens & Epidaurus Festival to a Science Festival, there's no wonder why the city is an attraction to major events, such as the Space Olympics which will be hosted in 2022!
Please click HERE to view this issue of our newsletter!
Published in
Newsletters
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Monday, 12 August 2019 11:50
‘The Trip’ Comes To Greece
British frenemies Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon have embarked on their 4th food and travel adventure, and this time around they will argue over moussaka and souvlaki. "The Trip," a semi-improvised travelogue series, has narrated Coogan and Brydon's journeys around Northern England, Italy, and Spain, with the comedians starring as fictional versions of themselves.
Even though details regarding the episode have not been revealed, the duo's travel to Greece will focus on their clashing personalities.
According to the Hellenic Film Commission (HFC), "The Trip to Greece" will showcase the comedians visiting many of Greece's historical sites and monuments, including the Temple of Apollo in Delphi, the Ancient Agora of Athens, the Ancient Theater of Epidaurus and more.
Sky Atlantic's 'The Trip to Greece' will be broadcast on Sky One and Now TV in 2020.
To read this article in full, please visit: eKathimerini
Published in
Local News
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Monday, 17 February 2020 07:00
Nea Smyrni: An Athenian Neighborhood Among The Best In Europe
The Guardian recently published a list of the 10 best city neighborhoods in Europe. The 10 areas were selected for attributes such as parks, under the radar museums, or great-value restaurants.
Among the best neighborhoods are Wilhelminapark in Utrecht, Vallecas in Madrid, Moabit in Berlin, and Nea Smyrni in Athens.
About Nea Smyrni
Nea Smyrni is a family-friendly neighborhood halfway between central Athens and the Athenian riviera. Nea Smyrni has a fascinating history as the area where refugees from Smyrna-now Izmir-settled in the 1920s. In the heart of the neighborhood lies a car-free square with fountains, shops, restaurants, cafes, and bars for all tastes and budgets. For visitors, Nea Smyrni is a rare find since it's not on the typical tourist route.
To read this article in full, please visit: The Guardian
To read this article in full, please visit: The Guardian
Published in
Greece In The News
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Wednesday, 25 May 2022 12:21
Amber Alert: 6-Year-Old Abducted In Kifissia
An alarm has sounded at the Police, but also at the "Child's Smile", after the abduction of 6-year-old Rainer Jason Pedersen on the night of Tuesday, May 24, from his house in Kifissia. Authorities have strong indications that this is parental abduction.
According to the description of the child as mentioned in his announcement, “Amber Alert”, Rainer Jason Pedersen has: Freckles on his face, Long red hair, Brown eyes, Height 1.10, Weight 15 kg.
When he disappeared he was wearing a blue tracksuit, a white short-sleeved blouse, and gray socks.
According to the description of the child as mentioned in his announcement, “Amber Alert”, Rainer Jason Pedersen has: Freckles on his face, Long red hair, Brown eyes, Height 1.10, Weight 15 kg.
When he disappeared he was wearing a blue tracksuit, a white short-sleeved blouse, and gray socks.
Published in
Local News
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Thursday, 26 October 2023 07:00
The Heroes Of The Ohi Day
October 28th is the day that commemorates the rejection by Greek dictator Ioannis Metaxas of the ultimatum made by Italian dictator Benito Mussolini on October 28, 1940. This day is known as Ohi Day by Greeks around the world.
Unlike the Greek War of Independence heroes that we are all familiar with, the heroes of the Greco-Italian War are lesser known. Of course, there are so many of them, and it is impossible to know them all. But let’s take a look at some Greeks who were called upon to make critical political or military decisions and made history.
Ioannis Metaxas
Ioannis Metaxas was a Greek military officer and politician who served as the Prime Minister of Greece from 1936 until his death in 1941. At first, Metaxas’ intention was to keep Greece out of World War II, a plan that failed when the Italian ambassador, Emanuele Grazzi, visited his residence demanding, on behalf of Italy, occupation rights to strategic Greek sites. His reply, “Alors, c'est la guerre," meaning “Then it is war," brought a united country into the Western alliance. In a strange twist of events, Metaxas never lived to see the Fascist-Nazi invasion of Greece because he died in Athens on January 29, 1941.
Alexandros Papagos
With the declaration of the Greco-Italian war, Alexandros Papagos assumed the position of Commander-in-Chief and managed to organize an effective defense and successfully halt the Italian troops along the Greco-Albanian borders. He remained in command until April 23, 1941, when he resigned in order not to participate in the negotiations following the German advance. In 1943, he established a resistance organization, the Military Hierarchy. In July of the same year, he was arrested by the German occupation authorities and transported to Germany's concentration camps as a prisoner. He was liberated by the Fifth U.S. Army on May 5, 1945.
Mordechai Frizis
When the Greco-Italian War was declared, Colonel Mordechai served as a detachment commander of the Delvinaki section of the Division. As the Italian army invaded Greece, crossing the Albanian frontier into Epirus, the task of defending the country’s border fell entirely to the VIII Division. Frizis and his men successfully pushed back the attacks, resulting in heavy losses for the Italians. On December 4th, he was ordered to move his unit towards the town of Përmet to cut off the Italian line of retreat, and the following day he was discovered dead from enemy fire. He was the first senior officer of the Greek Army to be killed in action on the battlefield in the Greco-Italian War.
Konstantinos Davakis
Konstantinos Davakis was a Greek military officer who, as the commander of the Pindus detachment, successfully repelled the Italian Julia Alpine Division's attack in October 1940. On November 1, 1940, when the reinforcements expected by Davakis arrived, the Greek forces counterattacked and surrounded the Italians, who were forced to retreat. On the 6th day after the start of the operations, Davakis was wounded and forced to withdraw from the front line position. He was arrested by the Italian occupation authorities in December 1942, suspected of participation in the Greek Resistance. He was to be shipped along with other officers to POW camps in Italy, but the ship was torpedoed and sank off southern Albania in January 1943.
Charalambos Katsimitros
As commander of the VIII division, Katsimitros successfully managed to hold back the Italian advance. He decided to organize forward defense and hold the Elaia (Kalpaki) position, despite opposite instructions from the General Staff and succeeded in defending it against repeated attacks until November 9. In this way, he managed to contain the Italian offensive in the Epirus sector and bought valuable time for the Greek reinforcements to arrive. After the German attack on Greece began, he retreated with the rest of the Army of Epirus, and the capitulation found him in Ioannina.
Published in
Greek Philosophy & History
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Thursday, 04 July 2024 07:00
Starting A Business In Greece: What You Need To Know
Starting a business in Greece can be a rewarding venture given its strategic location, vibrant culture, and membership in the European Union. However, it requires understanding the local regulations, market conditions, and cultural nuances.
Here’s a comprehensive guide on what you need to start a business in Greece.
1. Understanding the Business Environment
Economic Climate
Greece has experienced economic challenges in the past decade but is on a path to recovery with increasing opportunities for business growth, particularly in tourism, shipping, agriculture, and renewable energy sectors.
Market Research
Conduct thorough market research to understand local demand, competition, and consumer behavior. Identify market gaps and opportunities specific to your industry.
2. Legal Requirements
Choosing a Business Structure
Select the appropriate legal form for your business:
- Sole Proprietorship (Ατομική Επιχείρηση): Simplest form, suitable for small businesses and freelancers.
- Limited Liability Company (Εταιρεία Περιορισμένης Ευθύνης - ΕΠΕ): Popular choice offering limited liability protection.
- Private Company (Ιδιωτική Κεφαλαιουχική Εταιρεία - ΙΚΕ): Flexible and requires low initial capital.
- Societe Anonyme (Ανώνυμη Εταιρεία - AE): Suitable for larger businesses, requiring higher initial capital.
1. Company Name Approval: Obtain approval for your business name from the General Commercial Registry (GEMI).
2. Tax Identification Number (AFM): Apply for a AFM from the local tax office (DOY).
3. Register with GEMI: Register your business with GEMI, providing necessary documents such as the company’s articles of association.
4. Social Security Registration: Register with the Social Insurance Institute (IKA) for employee social security.
Licenses & Permits
Depending on your business activity, you may need specific licenses and permits. For example, food-related businesses require health permits, while construction businesses need building permits.
3. Financial Considerations
Initial Capital
Determine the initial capital required based on your business structure. For instance, an IKE requires a symbolic capital of €1, while an AE needs a minimum of €24,000.
Banking
Open a business bank account in Greece. This is essential for managing transactions and complying with financial regulations.
Funding Options
Explore various funding options:
- Personal Savings: Self-fund your business if you have sufficient capital.
- Bank Loans: Secure loans from Greek banks, provided you have a solid business plan.
- EU Grants: Utilize EU funds and grants available for startups and SMEs in Greece.
- Investors: Seek investment from private investors or venture capital firms.
Taxation
Understand the Greek tax system:
- Corporate Tax: Currently set at 24% on profits.
- VAT (Value Added Tax): Standard rate is 24%, with reduced rates for certain goods and services.
- Social Security Contributions: Employers contribute a percentage of employee salaries to social security.
4. Setting Up Operations
Location
Choose a strategic location based on your business needs. Consider factors like foot traffic, accessibility, and proximity to suppliers and customers.
Office Space
Lease or purchase office space. Ensure it meets legal requirements for your type of business.
Hiring Employees
Follow these steps to hire employees:
- Recruitment: Advertise job openings and conduct interviews.
- Employment Contracts: Draft and sign employment contracts outlining terms and conditions.
- Employee Registration: Register employees with IKA and other relevant authorities.
- Compliance: Ensure compliance with Greek labor laws regarding wages, working hours, and employee rights.
Invest in necessary technology and equipment. This includes computers, software, machinery, and other tools essential for your business operations.
5. Marketing & Networking
Branding
Develop a strong brand identity that resonates with Greek consumers. This includes a compelling logo, tagline, and brand message.
Online Presence
Create a professional website and engage on social media platforms popular in Greece, such as Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Advertising
Invest in local advertising, both online and offline. Utilize Google Ads, social media ads, and traditional media like newspapers and radio.
Networking
Join local business associations and attend networking events. Building relationships with other business owners and industry professionals can open up new opportunities.
6. Continuous Compliance & Growth
Regular Audits
Conduct regular financial audits to ensure compliance with Greek regulations and maintain financial health.
Legal Updates
Stay informed about changes in Greek business laws and regulations to avoid any legal issues.
Expansion
Plan for future growth by exploring new markets, expanding your product or service offerings, and investing in innovation.
Starting a business in Greece requires careful planning, compliance with local regulations, and an understanding of the market. By following these steps and leveraging the available resources, you can establish and grow a successful business in this beautiful and dynamic country.
If you need assistance or have any questions about starting your business in Greece, feel free to contact us. We’re here to help you every step of the way.
Published in
Tips & Advice
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Thursday, 05 February 2015 13:27
My Week in Athens… Nov 15
No I did not participate in the Athens Classic Marathon this past weekend – but I did venture out to support (in wonderment) the thousands of people who did! Sunday was one of those autumn days that define my love for Athens – sunny, warm, people everywhere… and lots of traffic. I don’t remember how I made it down to the centre, but eventually I caught sight of the action. So great to see so many people, runners and on-lookers, it seemed the whole city was outside! I was (almost) inspired to put a 10k on my list of to-do’s for next year ;)
The afternoon was a mix of coffee and meze at a neighbourhood taverna behind the Akropolis Museum – Mani Mani is a great little ‘local’ treat. The menu is a delicious twist on typical tavern fare, with traditional and not-so-traditional food from the southern Peloponnese.
Later in the evening, I met up with some friends for a catch-up at Gazarte.
Gazarte is on the sophisticated end of things in Gazi, with live events, an art-house cinema, bar and restaurant. It’s the kind of place that has something for everyone – in an atmosphere that is decidedly ‘comfy’ and welcoming, with a great cocktail list.
Traffic and an evening protest notwithstanding, Sunday proved to be a great day. With friends, food and fun on the ticket, what could be better….
Until next week,
Jack
Mani Mani
Falirou 10, Makriyianni
www.manimani.com.gr
Gazarte
Voutadon 34 , Gazi
www.gazarte.gr
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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