XpatAthens

XpatAthens

Saturday, 15 March 2025 10:48

Nefeli Nine Hiking & Yoga Retreat Pelion

June 8th - 14th

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and join us for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Greece's stunning Pelion region! 🏞️

During this retreat, you'll:

✨ Awaken your senses with daily yoga sessions in nature.
🌲 Embark on guided hikes through Pelion's enchanted forests.
🍂 Savor authentic Greek cuisine made with love.
🌅 Witness breathtaking sunsets over the Aegean Sea.
🔥 Kayak in crystal-clear waters from one of the iconic Mamma Mia locations.

Discover the beauty of Pelion with us—secret stretches of coastline, sleepy villages, lush mountains, and hidden beaches where swimming feels like pure heaven. Go completely off-grid and immerse yourself in the tranquility of this magical region.

Stay in an exceptional villa nestled on a lush mountainside, surrounded by nature. Enjoy phenomenal views, delicious locally sourced meals prepared fresh every day, and the chance to recharge while surrounded by the vibrant flora and fauna of the area.

According to Greek mythology, Mount Pelion was named after King Peleus, the father of Achilles, and it was the homeland of the Centaurs, mythical creatures half-man and half-horse. Pelion was also the region where the Olympian gods chose to spend their summer holidays! 🌿✨

To book now or submit an inquiry, please CLICK HERE!

About Nefeli Nine

Nefeli Nine offers a truly unique retreat experience in Greece, blending wellness, relaxation, and personalized care. It provides an intimate and rejuvenating environment, featuring tailored fitness programs, farm-to-table dining, and tranquil accommodations. Perfect for those seeking a balanced escape, Nefeli Nine invites guests to unwind and reconnect in harmony with nature. 🌿✨

🌿 27th April - 3rd May
🌸 25th - 31st May

Indulge in a week of nature, culture, and self-care. Discover panoramic views on guided hikes, explore historical gems, and find balance through daily yoga. Experience the very best of Greece—without the crowds!

Included:
🏡 6 nights in a stunning villa
🥾 5 guided hikes
🏛️ Visit to an archaeological site
🧘‍♀️ 2 daily yoga classes
🍽️ All meals
💆‍♀️ Massage treatment

The Nefeli Nine week-long program focuses on well-being and is designed to deliver results that are easy to maintain. This isn’t about starving yourself or doing endless sit-ups or tedious exercises. Instead, this retreat offers a balanced approach to fitness, travel, exploration, and good food.

We’ll take you on breathtaking hikes that showcase the beauty of Greece, suitable for all ages and abilities. You’ll enjoy delicious, organic, and wholesome food inspired by slow living and the Blue Zones—plenty of it! Each day, you’ll participate in two personalized yoga classes designed just for you.

Of course, none of the program is compulsory—but none of our guests ever miss a single part of it. 🌿✨

To book now or submit an inquiry, please CLICK HERE!

About Nefeli Nine

Nefeli Nine offers a truly unique retreat experience in Greece, blending wellness, relaxation, and personalized care. It provides an intimate and rejuvenating environment, featuring tailored fitness programs, farm-to-table dining, and tranquil accommodations. Perfect for those seeking a balanced escape, Nefeli Nine invites guests to unwind and reconnect in harmony with nature. 🌿✨

Monday, 02 December 2024 23:54

2024 Athens Christmas Bazaars

Athens comes alive during the festive season with a dazzling array of Christmas bazaars, each offering unique gifts, handmade crafts, delicious treats, and opportunities to support charitable causes. To help you plan your holiday shopping and make the most of this magical time, here’s a detailed day-by-day guide to the Christmas bazaars happening across the city:



29 November -  20 December

Smile Bazaar by "The Smile of the Child"
📍 Garitou 80, Agia Paraskevi, 5th Floor
🕒 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Support "The Smile of the Child" by shopping for branded clothing, toys, accessories, and Christmas items with discounts up to 70%. Every purchase contributes to their efforts to support children in need.

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6-8 December

Friends of Merimna Christmas Bazaar
📍 Zappeion Hall
🕒 6-7 December: 11:00 PM – 8:00 PM; 8 December: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Enjoy surprises, handmade crafts, books, and festive gifts. Indulge in delicious homemade treats at the bazaar’s café and participate in raffles for exciting prizes.

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6-8 December & 13-15 December

Handmade Art and Craft Bazaar in Markopoulo
📍 Old Railway Station, Markopoulo
🕒 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Discover sustainable art and crafts made from recycled materials, natural cosmetics, woven and knitted items, and handmade jewelry. A perfect place to find unique gifts with a creative touch.

7 December

Hill School Christmas Fair
📍 Thoukididou 9, Plaka
🕒 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Known as the most popular school fair in Plaka, this event offers handcrafted gifts, gingerbread houses, live music, and a raffle. Proceeds benefit the FEA - Filodasiki Enosis Athinon and the Cerebral Palsy Greece/Open Door

7-8 December

Nine Lives Greece Christmas Bazaar
📍 TAF – The Art Foundation, Normanou 5, Athens
🕒 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Celebrate the season and support stray cats at the Nine Lives Greece Christmas Bazaar. Discover unique holiday gift ideas while connecting with fellow cat enthusiasts. From festive decorations to handcrafted items, this bazaar offers something special for everyone, with all proceeds aiding stray cat care and rescue efforts.

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7 - 8 December

37th Bazaar by the Animal Protection Society (SPAZ)
📍 Inter-School Center of Glyfada Municipality, Epanminonda 30
🕒 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Shop for homemade sweets, books, and SPAZ merchandise like hoodies, mugs, and their 2025 calendar. Don’t miss the lottery with amazing prizes.

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7-8 December

Christmas Bazaar at Athens College
📍 Stefanou Delta 15, Filothei
🕒 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Support education and philanthropy at this official Christmas bazaar organized by the Parents’ Committees and Alumni Parents’ Fund Drive of Athens College. Browse a wide selection of festive gifts, handmade crafts, and more, with all proceeds going to the school's Scholarship Program. This is a wonderful opportunity to combine holiday shopping with supporting a meaningful cause.

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7-8 December

Christmas Bazaar by the Penteli Children’s Recovery Volunteer Association “I Love – I Give”
📍 Event Hall of the Former PIKPA, Old Penteli
🕒 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Support the Penteli Children’s Recovery Volunteers by shopping for handmade creations, delicious treats, and thoughtful gifts for loved ones. Every purchase helps contribute to their ongoing charitable efforts.

7-8 December

Festive Bazaar by the Hellenic Animal Welfare Society
📍 War Museum, Rizari 2, Athens
🕒 7 December: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM; 8 December: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Find brand-new items donated by sponsors, including clothing, accessories, and unique holiday gifts. Perfect for animal lovers, this bazaar combines festive shopping with a great cause.

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7-8 December

Italian Christmas Bazaar by COASIT
📍 Italian School of Athens, Mitsaki 18, Ano Patisia
🕒 7 December: 10:30 AM – 6:00 PM; 8 December: 10:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Step into a little slice of Italy with authentic Italian pizza, panini, traditional sweets, cheeses, wines, panettone, and more. Don’t miss the raffle for a chance to win delightful Italian treasures.

7-8 December

Christmas Market by the Egyptian Greek Association
📍 3rd September Street 56, Athens, 1st Floor
🕒 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Experience a blend of Greek and Egyptian culture at this unique market featuring handmade crafts, Christmas decorations, Egyptian-style jewelry, books, and traditional sweets. The market also includes exciting raffles with immediate and grand prizes—don’t miss the chance to meet the Patriarch of Alexandria!

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7-8 & 14-15 December

Cat Rescue Athens Christmas Bazaar
📍 Laluk All Day Bar, Georgiou Olympiou 15, Koukaki
🕒 Saturdays: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM; Sundays: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Join this heartwarming Christmas bazaar hosted in the cozy, animal-friendly Laluk café, surrounded by adorable resident cats. Enjoy coffee, reconnect with friends, or meet fellow supporters of Cat Rescue Athens while shopping for handmade ornaments, jewelry, accessories, second-hand books, and homemade sweets. Don’t miss their signature mugs, tote bags, and exclusive t-shirts designed by talented artists. All proceeds support medical care, food, sterilization, and rescue operations for stray cats in need.

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8 December

Christmas Market of the Greek-French Ursuline School
📍 Psychari 10, Neo Psychiko
🕒 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Celebrate the holidays with an array of festive activities and treats, including a treasure hunt, a raffle, handmade crafts, and a variety of delicious sweet and savory delights. The event also features games, a mini amusement park, and creative workshops—a perfect outing for the whole family.

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13-15 December & 20-22 December

Christmas Bazaar “The Ghosts of Aspropyrgos
📍 KOTES X-Booze, Kolokotroni 57, Monastiraki
🕒 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
This heartwarming bazaar aims to support stray animals in Aspropyrgos living in dire conditions. Explore an assortment of unique gifts donated from across Attica, including decorations, accessories, and handmade items. Enjoy the festive atmosphere while contributing to a vital cause that helps rescue and care for these animals.

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13-15 December

Christmas Bazaar at Ellinogermaniki Agogi
📍 Dimitriou Panagea Street, Pallini
🕒 13 December: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM; 14-15 December: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Immerse yourself in a festive atmosphere featuring gifts, ornaments, books, and traditional Greek and German treats. Children’s Christmas performances add a magical touch to this event, perfect for the whole family.

14-15 December

KAZ Shelter for Stray Animals Bazaar
📍 War Museum, Rizari 2, Athens
🕒 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Support stray animals by purchasing handmade crafts, curated ornaments, and gifts at this heartwarming bazaar. With a raffle where one in two wins, this event combines charity with festive fun.

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14-15 December

📍 Sputnik Multispace, Kerameikou 46 & Myllerou, Metaxourgeio
🕒 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Find lucky charms, pet-inspired jewelry, t-shirts, mugs, and stylish accessories for both humans and pets. Proceeds from this bazaar support stray animal welfare, including medical care and rescues.

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14-22 December

Christmas Market by Estia – Social Care Center for People with Intellectual Disabilities
📍 Sonias Nikolakopoulou 13, Neo Psychiko
🕒 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Explore an array of gifts and handmade crafts created by individuals at the center. This week-long market not only offers meaningful shopping but also provides vital support to those in need.

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15 December

Lalibela Christmas Bazaar
📍 Hellenic-Ethiopian Association, Louise Riencourt 42-44, Ampelokipi
🕒 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
This bazaar offers a unique selection of Christmas decorations, handmade sweets, accessories, and ethnic gifts from Ethiopia. Proceeds support vulnerable children in Lalibela.

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16-17 December

KETHEA DIAVASI Christmas Bazaar
📍 Kypseli Municipal Market
🕒 16 December: 13:00 AM – 9:00 PM; 17 December: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Support this rehabilitation program by purchasing handmade gifts, ornaments, and delicious sweets crafted by its members.

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Thursday, 28 November 2024 23:47

"Stay-Away" Workshop by AWOG

Join the American Women's Organization of Greece for a 3-hour Women’s Self-Defense Workshop, led by certified KRAV MAGA instructor Michalis Kafetzis. This empowering session aims to promote safety, equality, and solidarity while supporting “FIVI, the Battered Women’s Shelter” in Athens.

Date: Saturday, December 7, 2024
Time: 12:00 Noon

Dress Code: Athletic Casual (no prior athletic experience required)

Highlights
  • Open to participants of ALL ages
  • Learn essential self-defense techniques
  • Support a meaningful cause



Cost
  • €15 for AWOG members
  • €20 for guests/non-members
RSVP by: December 5, 2024 (limited seating available)

Contact: To RSVP or for more information, email Georgia Kallis, AWOG Secretary & FAWCO Human Rights Team Member: giakall518@gmail.com

Stand united against violence and make a difference!
Founded by Steph Kontomichalou, Nefeli Nine is a distinctive healthy lifestyle retreat blending yoga, hiking, and nourishing homemade food. Located in some of Greece’s most stunning yet lesser-known regions—Dikastika, Pelion, Agrafa and Zagorochoria—this retreat offers a week of rejuvenation, cultural exploration, and adventure. The 2025 schedule runs from April through November, with full details available at www.nefelinine.com.

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The Three Pillars: Movement, Food, & Greece
Nefeli Nine revolves around three core elements that create a holistic and transformative experience: movement, food, and the beauty of Greece.

Food

Meals at Nefeli Nine are lovingly prepared by Steph, drawing inspiration from her Mediterranean roots. Using fresh, locally sourced, and seasonal ingredients, she crafts a varied and nourishing menu. Guests also dine at traditional Greek tavernas, experiencing authentic hospitality and hidden culinary gems frequented by locals. This balance of home-cooked meals and traditional restaurants ensures a rich and satisfying gastronomic journey.

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Hiking & Yoga

Nefeli Nine offers activities suitable for all fitness levels. Hiking excursions explore Greece’s spectacular yet often overlooked mainland, covering scenic trails in the mountains or along tranquil beaches. These hikes challenge and inspire, offering breathtaking views and a deeper connection to nature.

Yoga sessions combine Vinyasa and restorative styles, tailored to both beginners and seasoned practitioners. Classes are designed to energize, relax, and release stress, making the retreat both restorative and invigorating. Guests are encouraged to fully engage with the experience or unwind at their own pace with a book or a peaceful moment.

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Greece

The retreat’s mission is to showcase Greece's authentic beauty, away from tourist crowds. Guests explore a side of the mainland often overshadowed by the islands, discovering historical landmarks, idyllic villages, and pristine landscapes. With expert guidance and warm hospitality, every retreat fosters a profound appreciation for Greece’s culture, history, and natural splendor.

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A Bespoke Experience

Each of the Nefeli Nine team is selected because they offer something different and interesting for the guests. The yoga instructors draw on their varied backgrounds to design well-constructed classes that not only suit the group but reflect the needs of the day. The hiking guides are true nature lovers with an amazing wealth of knowledge of local flora, fauna and history. Guests are treated to the stories of the trails and the history of the area but also learn about the local plants and flowers. Depending on the season they can also pick wild asparagus, mushrooms, fresh thyme and oregano. 

Join Nefeli Nine for a week of wellness, culture, and nature, and uncover the true essence of Greece.

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Website: nefelinine.com
Instagram: nefelinineretreats


Wednesday, 27 November 2024 22:27

VIP Santorini Premium Transfer & Tour

At VIP Santorini Premium Transfer & Tour, we redefine luxury travel experiences on the stunning island of Santorini. Established in 2015, our fully licensed travel company is dedicated to delivering unparalleled service that goes above and beyond our clients’ expectations.

Beyond mere transfers, we specialize in crafting bespoke tours tailored to your preferences, ensuring your Santorini experience is nothing short of extraordinary. Explore the island in a unique and immersive way, soaking in every moment amidst the awe-inspiring vistas of magical Santorini.

Our team of private VIP Drivers and Chauffeurs embodies professionalism, discretion, and a deep understanding of Santorini’s rich history and culture. With their extensive knowledge, they are equipped to answer all your questions and provide insider insights into the island’s hidden gems.

At VIP Santorini, our mission is to curate unforgettable holiday experiences for our valued clients. We understand that your time is precious, which is why we strive to provide hassle-free vacations that allow you to fully enjoy all that Santorini has to offer.

Trust us with your journey, and let us create memories that will last a lifetime. Welcome aboard, and embark on a magical journey with our exclusive VIP services!

Website: viptransferssantorini.com
Facebook: VIP Santorini
Email: viptransferssantorini@gmail.com

The Ministry of Culture, through the Ephorate of Antiquities of the Cyclades, and the Museum of Cycladic Art invite you to a groundbreaking archaeological exhibition: “Cycladic Women: Untold Stories of Women in the Cyclades.” This compelling showcase will be hosted at the Stathatos Mansion of the Museum of Cycladic Art before traveling to the Archaeological Museum of Thera in June 2025.

This exhibition marks the inaugural initiative under the Memorandum of Cooperation signed on May 17, 2024, by Minister of Culture Lina Mendoni and Cassandra Marinopoulou, President and CEO of the Museum of Cycladic Art. Together, they aim to study, highlight, and promote Cycladic civilization both in Greece and internationally.

What Awaits You?
  • A Journey Through Time:
    Featuring approximately 150 unique works of Cycladic art, the exhibition spans from early prehistory to the 17th century. These treasures, many of which have never left the Cyclades or been displayed to the public, come from the collections of the Ephorate of Antiquities of the Cyclades and the Museum of Cycladic Art. Select artifacts from the National Archaeological Museum, the Kanellopoulos Museum, the Epigraphic Museum, and prestigious private collections further enrich the display.
  • A Celebration of Women’s Roles:
    Immerse yourself in stories that explore the multifaceted roles of women in the Cyclades across millennia. From divine figures to mothers, from participants in religious rituals to active members of the public and private spheres, these narratives reveal both the constraints women faced and moments of their emancipation.
  • A Reflection on Modernity:
    In a time when women continue to advocate for respect, freedom of choice, and liberation from enduring stereotypes, the exhibition connects the past with the present. It brings forward untold tales of Cycladic women that illuminate the historical formation of female identity from prehistory to the post-Byzantine era.
Why You Should Visit

This exhibition is not just about artifacts—it is a profound exploration of the human condition, told through the lens of Cycladic women. It bridges centuries to remind us of the struggles and triumphs of women who shaped their societies and whose voices echo into our modern world.

Don't miss this extraordinary cultural journey!

📍 Where: Museum of Cycladic Art, Stathatos Mansion
📆 When: Opening at the Museum of Cycladic Art, with a second showing at the Archaeological Museum of Thera in June 2025

Step into the lives, roles, and legacies of Cycladic women, and witness history like never before.
A Fusion of Music, Movement and Improvisation

THEATRE OF THE NO, Athens first English speaking theatre, presents, a night of extraordinary artistry as two musical masters, Yiannis Papadopoulos and Gilad Atzmon, come together for an unforgettable performance. From Baroque to Tango, Astor Piazzolla to John Coltrane, and even back to Bach, this duo will take you on a journey through lyrical improvisation and world-class jazz.

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Yiannis Papadopoulos, a leading figure in Greece’s music scene, is celebrated for his poetic and inventive style. He will be joined by Gilad Atzmon, a global pioneer of World Jazz who masterfully blends Coltrane’s legacy with Mediterranean influences.

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Adding a unique twist to the evening circus artists Camilo & Manuk, masters of acrobatics, mime, clowning, and acting, will join the musicians on stage. Together, they will craft a spontaneous fusion of music and theatrical artistry, delivering a one of a kind performance that promises to captivate, surprise, and enchant the audience.

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Credits:

Photography: Nikos Pagonakis
Poster: Sotiria Bramou
Social Media: Kallia Gerakianaki
Communications & PR: Eleftheria Sakareli

Performance Date:
Saturday 30th at 22:30

Ticket Price: 
€10

Note: The theatre also offers a bar with affordable prices (beer €2.50, drinks €5)
As late November settles in, the first chills of winter are finally here. Temperatures drop, scarves and coats come out, and the air carries that crisp, refreshing bite that reminds us the season is changing. Yet in Greece, even in the depths of winter, the cold never quite reaches the extremes we see in other parts of the world. We might glance longingly at images of snow-covered streets or white Christmas scenes in other countries, but let’s take a moment to appreciate the unique blessings of the Greek climate.

A Mild Winter Wonderland

Greece’s Mediterranean climate is one of its greatest treasures. Characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, this climate is the reason why Greece enjoys some of the most enviable weather in Europe. While northern countries brace for freezing temperatures, snowstorms, and icy commutes, Greek winters remain relatively gentle.

Even in colder regions, like the mountainous areas of northern Greece, winter is more about cozying up by the fire than battling extreme weather. In cities like Athens or coastal areas such as Crete and the Cyclades, temperatures rarely dip below freezing. Instead, winters are punctuated by periods of bright, sunny days where outdoor coffee with friends remains a possibility—even in December.

The Benefits of a Gentle Winter

While snow-covered landscapes may look magical, the mild Greek winters come with their own unique advantages:
  1. Accessible Outdoors: Winter doesn’t mean shutting ourselves inside. Hiking, walks by the sea, and even outdoor sports are still enjoyable, thanks to the pleasant weather.
  2. Seasonal Produce: Greece’s winter markets overflow with fresh, seasonal produce like oranges, mandarins, and hearty greens, perfect for warming meals like traditional stews and pies.
  3. Lower Energy Costs: Milder temperatures mean less reliance on heating, making winters not just more comfortable but also more affordable.
  4. Mood-Boosting Sunshine: Greece’s winters are often sunny, even if the air is chilly. Sunlight is a natural mood lifter, helping stave off the “winter blues” that many experience in darker, colder climates.
Why Greece Avoids Extreme Cold

Greece’s geographical location plays a crucial role in its temperate winters. The country’s position at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa ensures that cold air masses from the north are tempered by the surrounding seas, which act as a natural regulator. The Mediterranean Sea, in particular, stores heat from the long summer months, releasing it slowly as temperatures drop.

Additionally, Greece’s mountainous terrain creates microclimates that protect certain areas from the worst of winter’s chill. Coastal regions, in particular, benefit from the sea’s moderating influence, while inland areas experience cooler but still manageable conditions.

Finding Joy in Our Winters

It’s easy to envy the postcard-perfect snowscapes of northern Europe or the excitement of a snow day. But Greek winters offer something equally valuable: a balanced climate that lets us enjoy the season without enduring its harsher extremes. From cozy evenings enjoying hearty meals to sunny strolls along the coastline, Greece’s winter is a gentle reminder that each season has its own charm.

So, as we pull on our sweaters and enjoy the first whispers of winter, let’s focus on the beauty of what we have. It may not be a white winter wonderland, but it’s uniquely Greek—and that’s something to celebrate.
The Mediterranean Forest Model Network (MMFN), in collaboration with the Canadian Embassy and Canada’s Global Forest Leadership Program, announces a 15-month fellowship for Mediterranean youth in Forest and Landscape Restoration (FLR).





Key Details:
  • Duration: January 2025 – March 2026
  • Award Amount: €17,000
  • Focus: Innovative research and action in Mediterranean landscape restoration
Eligibility:
  • Young professionals under 30 years old
  • From MMFN member regions
  • Holding a degree in Environmental Studies, Forestry, Ecology, or related disciplines
This fellowship provides an exceptional opportunity to engage in groundbreaking restoration efforts across the Mediterranean, promoting sustainability and practical solutions in FLR.

For more information, visit: MMFN Official Website.

Don’t miss the chance to make a meaningful impact on Mediterranean landscape restoration.
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