XpatAthens

XpatAthens

Monday, 28 April 2025 19:44

Street Wisdom - Athens Walk & Workshop

 
📅 May 23, at 17:30
📍 Outside the Thision subway
 
⁉️ Get up, get out, get clarity and find inspiration and new direction in this wonderful and often (let's face it) disorienting world.
 
❤️ ​Join Elpida Trizi for a 2 hour in-person Street Wisdom Walkshop. Elpida can accommodate both Greek and English participants. For anyone who loves wandering and not only!

What is Street Wisdom?


Street Wisdom is a simple, yet powerful practice that combines mindfulness, neuroscience, and creativity to unlock your imagination and bring clarity.

By turning every street into a source of inspiration, this walkshop takes participants on a journey to calm the mind, spark new ideas, and discover fresh answers to personal questions—all while enjoying the health benefits of walking outdoors.

What happens during the Walkshop?
  • Tune Up: Warm-up micro-walks guided by Elpida to heighten awareness.
  • The Quest: A longer, solo walk where participants "ask the streets" a question and uncover insights.
  • Share: Return as a group to reflect on and discuss discoveries. It’s an easy, enjoyable, and potentially transformative experience! 
Why join?

Tap into creativity and clarity. Reconnect with yourself and your surroundings. It’s completely free!

How to join?

Sign up and commit to showing up. These walkshops are volunteer-led, and hosts dedicate time and energy to create these unique experiences. Your presence ensures the effort is honored.

Stay Streetwise

While Street Wisdom is designed to elevate awareness and inspire, remember to stay mindful of your surroundings as you explore.


Take this opportunity to experience mindfulness on the move.
REGISTER TODAY and let the streets surprise you! 


Thursday, 21 November 2024 11:40

The Most Unique Museums In Greece

It’s no surprise that Greece is a country full of surprises. Beyond its iconic ruins, crystal-clear waters, and sun-drenched islands lies a treasure trove of quirky and unconventional museums. These hidden gems showcase the country's eccentric side, offering fascinating insights into unique aspects of Greek history, culture, and creativity. From ancient inventions to mushroom displays, these museums are anything but ordinary. If you’re ready to step off the beaten path, here are some of the weirdest museums in Greece that will leave you intrigued and inspired.

1. The Museum of Industrial Olive Oil Production – Lesvos

olive oil production
Credit: piop.gr

While olive oil is a staple of Greek culture, this museum on the island of Lesvos takes it to another level. Housed in a restored industrial building, it explores the history and evolution of olive oil production, showcasing vintage machinery and offering insights into the island's olive-related heritage. It’s a mix of industrial history and cultural tradition, but its specificity makes it delightfully unusual.

Admission Fee: €4 for adults, €2 for students and seniors
Days & Hours: Daily (except Tuesdays) 10:00 - 17:00.

Plan Your Visit!

2. The Natural History Museum of Meteora and Mushroom Museum – Kalambaka

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Credit: meteoramuseum.gr

Located near the iconic Meteora monasteries, this museum combines two very different themes: wildlife and mushrooms. The mushroom section is especially unique, with displays of hundreds of species, including incredibly lifelike models. You can also sample mushroom-based products in the museum shop—truly a one-of-a-kind experience.

Admission Fee: €6 for adults, €5 for children, students, educators and seniors
Days & Hours: Monday - Friday: 09:00- 17:00, Saturday & Sunday: 10:00-18:00

Plan Your Visit!
 
3. The Museum of Marble Crafts – Tinos

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Credit: piop.gr
 
Tinos is renowned for its marble art, but this museum dives deep into the craft itself. It showcases tools, techniques, and the process of marble extraction and carving. The level of detail and focus on this single material makes it both fascinating and oddly specific, appealing to art enthusiasts and curious minds alike.

Admission Fee: €4 for adults, €2 for students and seniors
Days & Hours: Daily (except Tuesdays) 10:00 - 17:00.

Plan Your Visit!

4. The Silversmithing Museum – Ioannina

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Credit: piop.gr

Nestled within the castle of Ioannina, this museum delves into the region’s rich tradition of silversmithing. While it sounds niche, the intricate craftsmanship and the historical depth of silver art make it an unexpected gem—and a little quirky for those unfamiliar with this art form.

Admission Fee: €4 for adults, €2 for students and seniors
Days & Hours: Daily (except Tuesdays) 10:00 - 17:00.
5. The Kotsanas Museum of Ancient Greek Technology – Katakolo & Athens


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Credit: kotsanas.com
 
Explore the weird and wonderful inventions of the ancient Greeks! This museum showcases functional reconstructions of ancient technologies, including the automatic servant, war machines, and even an early alarm clock. It’s a fascinating peek into the ingenuity of ancient Greece that feels surprisingly modern.

Admission Fee: €5 - €14
Days & Hours: Please click here to view the opening hours. 

Plan Your Visit To The Athens Museum!

6. The Museum of the Kalavrita Holocaust – Kalavrita

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Credit: dmko.gr

This museum may not be "weird" in a lighthearted way, but its deeply specific focus on the Kalavrita massacre during World War II makes it unique. Through haunting exhibits, photos, and personal accounts, it documents one of the darkest chapters in Greek history. While somber, it’s a powerful and important experience for those looking to explore Greece’s lesser-known history.

Admission Fee: General Admission: 4.00 € Reduced Ticket: 2.00€
Days & Hours: Tuesday – Sunday 09:00 - 16:00.

Main image: The Museum of Industrial Olive Oil Production – Lesvos 
 

A record number of American students are choosing Greece as a study abroad destination, according to the Open Doors 2024 survey findings, published annually by the Institute of International Education (IIE).

In the 2022-2023 academic year, the number of US students studying in Greece surged by nearly 34% compared to the previous year, reaching a total of 6,000 students.

Greece continues to be a top-ten study abroad destination for US students, maintaining its popularity in recent years. In comparison, it ranked 17 in 2018, which shows Greece’s trajectory to become a top destination for U.S. students in recent years.

Meanwhile, a growing number of Greek students chose the United States for their studies.In the 2023-2024 academic year, 2,561 Greek students were enrolled in US academic institutions, reflecting an upward trend from the previous year. 

“The United States is invested in Greece’s future and is proud to see our educational ties continue to expand.  International education strengthens the ties between our countries, strengthens our economies, and deepens the ties between our peoples,” noted US Ambassador to Greece George J. Tsunis.

Originally published on: ekathimerini.com
Wednesday, 20 November 2024 15:02

Balancing Parenting & Extracurricular Activities

Parenting in today’s world can often feel like juggling flaming swords, especially when extracurricular activities enter the mix. From soccer practices and dance recitals to coding clubs and art classes, the options are endless, and so are the logistics. 

While extracurricular activities can enrich a child’s development and provide essential life skills, they can also overwhelm families if not managed wisely. Here are some tips to help parents navigate this busy landscape while maintaining their sanity.

1. Prioritize & Choose Wisely

Children may want to try everything, and it’s natural for parents to want to support their enthusiasm. However, overloading their schedules can lead to burnout for both kids and parents.
  • Focus on Interests: Encourage your child to pick one or two activities they are genuinely passionate about.
  • Consider Age & Development: Younger children may need more downtime, while older kids may thrive on structured commitments.
  • Set Limits: A manageable schedule ensures kids have time for schoolwork, family, and free play.
2. Plan & Organize

Effective planning is the backbone of managing extracurricular activities.
  • Create a Family Calendar: Use digital tools or a physical planner to track commitments, ensuring you don’t double-book or miss an event.
  • Coordinate with Other Parents: Carpooling can save time and reduce stress.
  • Prepare in Advance: Keep gear and uniforms organized and ready to go to avoid last-minute scrambles.
3. Communicate with Your Child

Extracurricular activities should be enjoyable, not a source of stress.
  • Check In Regularly: Ask your child how they feel about their commitments. If they seem overwhelmed, it may be time to scale back.
  • Encourage Balance: Teach them the importance of balancing activities with rest and unstructured time.
4. Make Time for Family

With packed schedules, family time can often take a back seat. Make an effort to prioritize moments together.
  • Family Meals: Even with busy evenings, try to have at least a few meals together each week to reconnect.
  • Quality Over Quantity: Whether it’s a weekend hike or a movie night, make the time you spend together meaningful.
5. Recognize Your Own Limits

Parents often bear the brunt of extracurricular logistics. It’s important to acknowledge your boundaries.
  • Ask for Help: Don’t hesitate to enlist other family members or friends for support.
  • Set Realistic Expectations: You can’t be everywhere at once; sometimes, you’ll have to make tough choices.
  • Prioritize Self-Care: Taking care of yourself ensures you have the energy to care for your family.
6. Emphasize Quality, Not Quantity

Remember, the goal of extracurricular activities is to enrich your child’s life, not to fill every moment with structured tasks.
  • Focus on Personal Growth: Whether it’s learning teamwork or building resilience, what matters is how the activity benefits your child’s development.
  • Celebrate Achievements: Show your support by attending events and celebrating milestones, no matter how small.
7. Be Flexible & Adapt

Schedules and interests will evolve as your child grows. Stay flexible and be ready to adjust as needed.
  • Reassess Annually: Each year, evaluate which activities are worth continuing and which can be dropped.
  • Be Open to Change: If an activity no longer serves your child’s interests or wellbeing, it’s okay to move on.
The Bigger Picture

Extracurricular activities are just one piece of the parenting puzzle. By managing them effectively, parents can help their children enjoy fulfilling experiences while maintaining a balanced, happy family life. Remember, it’s not about doing it all but about doing what works best for your family.

Parenting is a journey, and each step is an opportunity to learn and grow together. Take a deep breath, keep perspective, and embrace the beautiful chaos!
The works of ancient Greek philosophers have shaped the foundations of Western philosophy, science, and ethics. Reading about their lives and ideas not only offers a glimpse into their genius but also provides timeless insights into human nature and society. Here’s a list of must-read books, both original works and modern commentaries, about the most famous Greek philosophers, translated into English.



1. Plato

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  • Key Work: The Republic
    Plato’s The Republic remains a cornerstone of political philosophy and ethics. This dialogue examines justice, governance, and the nature of the ideal state. Translations by Benjamin Jowett or newer ones like those by Allan Bloom are particularly respected.
  • Additional Recommendations:
    • Plato: Complete Works, edited by John M. Cooper, compiles all of Plato’s dialogues, including The Symposium and Phaedrus, which explore love, rhetoric, and the soul.
2. Aristotle

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  • Key Work: Nicomachean Ethics
    Aristotle’s exploration of the “good life” through virtue ethics is a profound guide to personal and moral development. Terence Irwin's translation is particularly well-regarded.
  • Additional Recommendations:
    • Metaphysics: This work delves into the nature of being and reality, offering insight into Aristotle's philosophical system.
    • Politics: Essential reading for understanding governance, citizenship, and Aristotle’s vision of the ideal state.
3. Socrates (via Plato and Xenophon)

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  • Key Work: Apology by Plato
    This dialogue portrays Socrates’ defense during his trial, embodying his commitment to truth and philosophy. It’s a gripping introduction to his ideas and personality.
  • Other Sources:
    • Xenophon’s Memorabilia and Apology: These offer an alternative perspective on Socrates' teachings and trial.
4. Epicurus

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  • Key Work: The Art of Happiness (translated by George K. Strodach)
    A collection of Epicurus’ letters and teachings, focusing on his philosophy of simple pleasures, friendship, and avoiding unnecessary desires.
  • Commentary:
    • Epicurus and His Philosophy by Norman W. DeWitt provides a detailed exploration of his thought and legacy.
5. Heraclitus

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  • Key Work: Fragments (translated by Brooks Haxton)
    Heraclitus’ enigmatic aphorisms on change and the unity of opposites are a window into his revolutionary thinking.
  • Companion Read:
    • Heraclitus: The Cosmic Fragments by G. S. Kirk offers detailed explanations and interpretations.
6. Diogenes (Cynics)

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  • Key Work: Diogenes: The Cynic Philosopher
    While Diogenes wrote little, anecdotes of his life are preserved in The Lives and Opinions of Eminent Philosophers by Diogenes Laërtius (translated by C.D. Yonge).
  • Modern Biography:
    • The Philosophy of Diogenes by Luis E. Navia offers a comprehensive analysis of his unconventional philosophy.
7. The Stoics (Zeno, Epictetus, Marcus Aurelius)

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  • Key Work: Meditations by Marcus Aurelius
    This personal journal is a cornerstone of Stoic philosophy, focusing on inner peace and resilience.
  • Other Recommendations:
    • Discourses by Epictetus: A practical guide to Stoicism and virtuous living.
    • The Stoics Reader, edited by Brad Inwood and Lloyd P. Gerson, offers selections from various Stoic philosophers.
Monday, 18 November 2024 11:46

No, Jazz Jam Wednesdays At Theatre Of The No

Theatre of the NO, Athens' first English-speaking theater, opens its doors every Wednesday at 10:00 PM, inviting musicians and jazz enthusiasts to the historic Jazz Jam. Led by the charismatic drummer and host Serafeim Bellos, this event brings authentic jazz energy and magic to the heart of the city.

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The house band sets the stage for a vibrant musical experience, featuring spontaneous solos, daring improvisations, and an electrifying atmosphere that captivates the audience.

From well-known musicians to emerging talents taking their first steps, Jazz Jam Wednesdays offer everyone the chance to take part and immerse themselves in the magic of jazz through a dynamic, ever-evolving live performance.

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Musicians are welcome to join the stage and play for free.
 
DETAILS

House Band Trio

Phoebe Pehlivanidi: Piano
Sophia Papakosma: Bass
Serafeim Bellos: Drums

CREDITS

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

DATES

Every Wednesday at 10:00 PM

Ticket Price: €10 (includes one drink)

Bar Prices: Beer: €2.50, Spirits: €5
Monday, 18 November 2024 11:36

GIS Christmas Lunch & Party

Our festive highlight of the year will take place this year on Sunday, 15 December, at the Oasis Hotel (Leoforos Poseidonos 27, Glyfada), a venue that will be familiar to anyone who attended the event up to 2011. 

The party will follow the same much-loved format of previous festive gatherings. We will have our own beautiful function room and there will be an even more amazing selection of food, drinks, music, dancing, kids’ entertainment and raffle. And there will of course be the customary visit from the big man himself, Mr. S. Claus.

Christmas for Irish people is a special time of year and is all about getting together to celebrate and have fun. We aim to put on a really nice lunch event, that is good value for money and provides the opportunity for everyone to come together.

We hope and look forward to seeing you all at this year’s party!

Tickets will cost the same as last year:

  • €35 for fully paid up Greek-Irish Society members
  • €40 euros for non-members
  • Half-price for children aged 7-12 (€17.50 euros or €20 euros depending on whether the family has membership)
  • Free for children aged six or under
* If anyone has allergies or specific food requirement, please email  greekirishsociety@gmail.com directly and let us know your requirements.
** Mr. Claus will have a gift for each lucky kid!
*** People in the same booking will be seated together. If you have particular seating preferences, contact us at the email address above.
**** There will be a GIS Junior table where older kids will be seated.

As the weather cools and leaves turn golden, there’s nothing better than curling up with a warm drink. But why settle for the usual when you can add a Mediterranean flair to your fall sips? Here’s a roundup of hot beverages inspired by Greek flavors and traditions, perfect for the season.




1. Greek-Inspired Spiced Apple Cider

Traditional apple cider gets an upgrade with the addition of Greek spices like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise, commonly found in Greek desserts like melomakarona. Add a splash of Metaxa (a Greek amber spirit) for a grown-up treat.

Ingredients:
  • 1 liter apple cider
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 3-4 cloves
  • 1 star anise
  • Optional: 30ml Metaxa
Instructions:
  1. Combine all ingredients in a pot and simmer for 10–15 minutes.
  2. Strain the spices and serve hot.
2. Greek Mountain Tea Latte

Greek mountain tea, made from the sideritis plant, is a soothing herbal infusion with earthy and floral notes. Transform it into a latte by adding frothed milk and a drizzle of honey.

Ingredients:
  • 2 teaspoons dried Greek mountain tea
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 cup frothed milk
  • Honey, to taste
Instructions:
  1. Steep the tea in boiling water for 5–7 minutes.
  2. Strain, add frothed milk, and sweeten with honey.
3. Loukoumades Hot Chocolate

Inspired by Greece's famous honey-soaked doughnuts, this rich hot chocolate features cinnamon, a hint of nutmeg, and a drizzle of honey for sweetness.

Ingredients:
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
  • A pinch of nutmeg
Instructions:
  1. Heat the milk in a saucepan, then whisk in cocoa, honey, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth.
  2. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an indulgent finish.
4. Ouzo-Infused Chai Tea

Give your chai tea a Mediterranean twist with a dash of ouzo, the iconic Greek anise-flavored liqueur. The licorice notes pair beautifully with chai’s spiced profile.

Ingredients:
  • 1 chai tea bag
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 1 tablespoon ouzo
  • Milk and sugar, to taste
Instructions:
  1. Brew the chai tea and add a splash of ouzo.
  2. Stir in milk and sugar if desired.
5. Baklava Coffee

Turn your morning coffee into a dessert-inspired delight by incorporating the flavors of baklava. Add a hint of cinnamon, a touch of vanilla, and sweeten with a bit of honey. Top it off with crushed walnuts for the full effect.

Ingredients:
  • 1 cup brewed coffee
  • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • Crushed walnuts for garnish
Instructions:
  1. Stir the cinnamon, vanilla, and honey into the coffee.
  2. Garnish with crushed walnuts.
6. Warm Mastiha Milk

Mastiha, a resin from the island of Chios, adds a subtle pine and citrus flavor to this warm milk drink. It’s calming and aromatic—perfect for unwinding.
Ingredients:

  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon mastiha powder (or a small piece of mastiha resin, ground)
  • Honey, to taste
Instructions:
  1. Heat the milk with mastiha until warm and fragrant.
  2. Sweeten with honey and enjoy.
These hot fall beverages with a Greek twist are guaranteed to bring a little Mediterranean sunshine to even the chilliest autumn days. So grab your favorite mug, and enjoy a taste of Greece this season!

Which one will you try first?
Friday, 15 November 2024 14:01

Always Grand | 150 Years of Flavors

New anniversary menu from the Hotel Grande Bretagne

A culinary journey through 150 years of history awaits gastronomy lovers
at the Winter Garden City Lounge, until December 31st 

Celebrating 150 years of culinary excellence, the Hotel Grande Bretagne marks this milestone with the new anniversary menu "Always Grand|150 Years of Flavors", signed by the twice Michelin-starred Executive Chef Asterios Koustoudis. 

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From November 6th until December 31st, 2024, guests have the opportunity to enjoy a special gastronomic journey at the Winter Garden City Lounge of the historic Hotel, inspired by the urban culture of old Athens.

Reviving recipes from the mid-20th century, the menu highlights the culinary heritage of the iconic Hotel, with dishes that starred in historic events during its 150 Years of continuous operation. From the authentic “Athinaiki” salad, a symbol of the urban cuisine of the 1970s and the impressive Shrimp fountain to the renowned 'Vol-au-Vent', emanating the elegance of French cuisine, the dishes evoke memories of another era. Paying tribute to the Greek tradition, the menu includes ‘lahanodolmades’ (cabbage rolls), while desserts such as nougatine, which traveled from the great European courtyards to the Athenian salons, complete the unparalleled journey from the past to the present, captivating even the most discerning palates. 

GB AlwaysGrand150yrsFlavors Shrimp Fountain

Guests can also enjoy the anniversary afternoon tea, masterfully curated by Pastry Chef Alexandros Koufas, adding a nostalgic touch of authentic Athenian glamour.

Discover the anniversary menu "Always Grand|150 Years of Flavors", an exciting culinary journey that uniquely connects the past with the present, through unique dishes that remain classic and beloved.

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Through personalized mentorship, practical resources, and a supportive network, Innerbloom helps women design a path to professional fulfillment that harmonizes with their life’s purpose and well-being. Our mission is to offer a balance between strategic guidance and mindful, compassionate support.

Whether you’re launching a new business, scaling an existing one, or redefining your purpose for doing business, Innerbloom is about facilitating your journey, every step of the way.

We create a nurturing, open and transformative space where we empower women to grow their dreams into thriving, sustainable ventures. We believe in combining business acumen with a heart-centered approach, recognizing the individually unique talents, aspirations, and challenges of each woman.
 
We don’t just help you build your business, we work with you to refine and elevate it, assuring it reflects your vision and your highest potential. Through targeted strategies that enhance growth, refine impact, and ensure sustainability, we want you to blossom at your own pace, surrounded by like-minded women on similar journeys.

Learn more and get in touch on our website: https://www.innerbloom.gr/
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