LIFE & CULTURE
XpatAthens
Monday, 17 May 2021 12:40
Greece Among The First EU Countries To Test Vaccination Passport
On Friday, May 14th, Greece lifted most restrictions on movement and launched its tourist season. With the country now open to travelers, the Greek version of the “green certificate” regarding travel to the islands came into force.
Greece is among the first countries that will participate in the trials for issuing “green” digital certificates confirming that travelers have been vaccinated against Covid-19.
Greece is among the first countries that will participate in the trials for issuing “green” digital certificates confirming that travelers have been vaccinated against Covid-19.
According to a senior European Union official, countries were divided into three groups based on how technically ready they are to issue certificates. Apart from Greece, countries belonging to the first group include Spain, Italy, Malta, Bulgaria, Estonia, and Luxembourg. Cyprus is in the second group and will carry out tests a little later.
The green digital certificate will be technically ready on June 1 and will operate fully on June 30.
Originally published on ekathimerini.com.
The green digital certificate will be technically ready on June 1 and will operate fully on June 30.
Originally published on ekathimerini.com.
Published in
Local News
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Monday, 17 May 2021 01:08
5 Stunning Greek Islands A Stone's Throw From Athens
Athens, Greece's historic capital, is a city brimming with culture, elegance, and energy, a city bursting with life all year round. If, however, you feel like escaping the hustle and bustle for a while, taking a dip in the sea, or relaxing on a sandy beach, there's nothing stopping you from hopping on a ferry to one of the many beautiful islands just a breath away from Athens.
1. Spetses
Spetses is not a typical Greek island. It's a place oozing with vintage charm, an affluent paradise where you'll find charming neoclassical mansions and narrow alleyways. Cars are not allowed there, so you'll only see bicycles and carriages - it's like being transported back to another era. Walk along the waterfront, have a leisurely coffee in Dapia, and visit the Bouboulina Museum. The islands' romantic cosmopolitanism is sure to take your breath away!
2. Agistri
A tiny, picturesque island in the Saronic Gulf, Agistri is a very popular weekend getaway among Athenians. Blessed with lush pine forests, its unspoiled natural setting makes it a camper's paradise. But, there's so much more to do there. Explore the quaint traditional villages, swim in scenic coves, relax on pebbly beaches, and pay a visit to the Folk Art Museum, if you want to get to know the past everyday life of the islanders.
3. Hydra
1. Spetses
Spetses is not a typical Greek island. It's a place oozing with vintage charm, an affluent paradise where you'll find charming neoclassical mansions and narrow alleyways. Cars are not allowed there, so you'll only see bicycles and carriages - it's like being transported back to another era. Walk along the waterfront, have a leisurely coffee in Dapia, and visit the Bouboulina Museum. The islands' romantic cosmopolitanism is sure to take your breath away!
2. Agistri
A tiny, picturesque island in the Saronic Gulf, Agistri is a very popular weekend getaway among Athenians. Blessed with lush pine forests, its unspoiled natural setting makes it a camper's paradise. But, there's so much more to do there. Explore the quaint traditional villages, swim in scenic coves, relax on pebbly beaches, and pay a visit to the Folk Art Museum, if you want to get to know the past everyday life of the islanders.
3. Hydra
Hydra has been attracting international jet setters for a long time and its aristocratic charm is, indeed, unquestionable. There, you'll see traditional white houses with blue shutters, impressive mansions dating back to the 18th century, as well as numerous churches and monasteries, as the island boasts rich religious history. Once again, cars are officially banned in Hydra, as the island has been listed for preservation due to its architectural and cultural significance.
4. Kea
Although part of the Cyclades island group, Kea doesn't have the typical Cycladic landscape and architecture. It's a verdant island, still untouched by mass visitors, brimming with elegant buildings. Kea has a vast network of paths with wooden signposts that cover most of the island, connecting its most important landmarks. Apart from the beaches, Kea has also a lot to offer in terms of sightseeing, as there you'll find four ancient cities, one of them being Ioulis, the island's enchanting capital.
5. Andros
4. Kea
Although part of the Cyclades island group, Kea doesn't have the typical Cycladic landscape and architecture. It's a verdant island, still untouched by mass visitors, brimming with elegant buildings. Kea has a vast network of paths with wooden signposts that cover most of the island, connecting its most important landmarks. Apart from the beaches, Kea has also a lot to offer in terms of sightseeing, as there you'll find four ancient cities, one of them being Ioulis, the island's enchanting capital.
5. Andros
The greenest island of the Cyclades, Andros is the ultimate destination for nature lovers, hiking enthusiasts, and water-sports aficionados due to its strong winds. Except for its wild natural beauty and its incredible beaches, the island is also famous for its cosmopolitan vibe. The island's capital, Chora, is full of architectural masterpieces, like elegant mansions, neoclassical buildings, and, of course, the famous lighthouse of Andros. The island boasts a variety of museums as well, making it the perfect destination for art lovers!
Published in
Travel Greece
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Friday, 14 May 2021 16:03
The Atrium - A New Secret Garden At The Hotel Grande Bretagne
On the first floor of the Hotel Grande Bretagne, at THE ATRIUM of Alexander’s Lounge, an outdoor “secret garden” has been formed and welcomes you in a new all-day lounge, away from the city’s noise, while still in the heart of Athens.
Olive trees, laurels, small cypress trees, and flowers gift their colors and beauty to the venue, while the guests of THE ATRIUM of Alexander’s Lounge are able to relax and savor their coffee or drink in a sophisticated setting with impeccable service.
The Executive Chef Asterios Koustoudis and the talented culinary and pastry team have also created a menu inspired by the countries of Latin America, which includes a selection of flavorful dishes, such as spicy veggie tacos, chicken tortilla wrap, shrimp salsa salad, organic smoked salmon with organic blue corn nachos and guacamole sauce.
For the highly anticipated summer nights, additionally to a remarkable wine list, the award-winning bartenders of the historic hotel prepare refreshing cocktails and premium drinks. For the cigar aficionados, THE ATRIUM of Alexander’s Lounge features a wide variety of perfectly preserved cigars to complete the ritual.
Address: Hotel Grande Bretagne, Vasileos Georgiou A’ 1, Athens
Telephone: 210 3330748
Telephone: 210 3330748
Click HERE to explore the delicious menu!
Published in
Restaurants In Athens
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Thursday, 13 May 2021 15:06
A New Found Freedom - Updated Measures
Greece is steadily emerging from lockdown measures and things are beginning to return to some normality. Stay informed with all of the new measures, read all about the Municipality's latest initiatives, discover cool places to visit and things to do in Athens this month!
Please click HERE to view this issue of our newsletter!
Photo credit: @manoswashere
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Newsletters
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Thursday, 13 May 2021 13:37
Greece Steadily Emerges From Lockdown Measures
Greece has already begun loosening its strict lockdown measures, and as of Friday May 14, 2021, the entire country will begin to move more freely!
This means that the SMS system for leaving home will end, night curfew will begin at 12.30 am (instead of 11 pm), while domestic travel restrictions will be lifted as part of Greece’s phased returned to normality after months of strict lockdown measures.
This means that the SMS system for leaving home will end, night curfew will begin at 12.30 am (instead of 11 pm), while domestic travel restrictions will be lifted as part of Greece’s phased returned to normality after months of strict lockdown measures.
Also, the click-and-collect and click-in-shop systems will cease as retail trade gets closer to normal with health protocols in place stipulating one customer per 25 square meters.
What’s more, as of Friday, May 14th, the Greek version of the “green certificate” regarding travel to the islands (with the exception of Lefkada and Evia) comes into force, either by boat or by air.
Published in
Local News
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Thursday, 13 May 2021 11:57
Trekking Hellas
Trekking Hellas Group of Companies is the largest and most distinguished outdoor tour operator in Greece. In its 35 years of existence, it has established an outstanding reputation in Greece as well as worldwide, by providing high quality services for individuals and groups in the sector of outdoor holidays, activities and events in Greece.
Trekking Hellas Group of Companies consists of 17 franchise companies and employs more than 120 people all over the country. Our extended network makes it possible to operate an array of activities and experiences in all corners of Greece, at the highest standards, in cooperation with trained guides and various local suppliers. We organize outdoor activities in classic touristy destinations (i.e.Santorini, Athens ,Crete, Rhodes etc) as well as in less known regions of Greece (Tzoumerka, Karpenisi etc), off the beaten path, aiming to support local communities and contribute to their more sustainable development. The concept of meaningful and respectful travel lies in the heart of our endeavors.We strongly embrace and implement a socially and environmentally responsible policy by promoting the protection of nature and environmental awareness. We strive to educate and make a positive impact in this corner of the world.
On our company profile section you can read about each franchise company belonging to the group of companies, our enthusiastic and passionate guides and our headquarters team. Trekking Hellas is a founding member of HATEOA, memberor of ATTA and SETE and participates actively in the development and promotion of the adventure travel industry in Greece. It is also member and ambassador in Greece of the Adventure Travel Trade Association
Trekking Hellas Group of Companies consists of 17 franchise companies and employs more than 120 people all over the country. Our extended network makes it possible to operate an array of activities and experiences in all corners of Greece, at the highest standards, in cooperation with trained guides and various local suppliers. We organize outdoor activities in classic touristy destinations (i.e.Santorini, Athens ,Crete, Rhodes etc) as well as in less known regions of Greece (Tzoumerka, Karpenisi etc), off the beaten path, aiming to support local communities and contribute to their more sustainable development. The concept of meaningful and respectful travel lies in the heart of our endeavors.We strongly embrace and implement a socially and environmentally responsible policy by promoting the protection of nature and environmental awareness. We strive to educate and make a positive impact in this corner of the world.
On our company profile section you can read about each franchise company belonging to the group of companies, our enthusiastic and passionate guides and our headquarters team. Trekking Hellas is a founding member of HATEOA, memberor of ATTA and SETE and participates actively in the development and promotion of the adventure travel industry in Greece. It is also member and ambassador in Greece of the Adventure Travel Trade Association
Published in
Travel & Experiences
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Wednesday, 12 May 2021 10:53
10 Valuable Techniques For Keeping Calm & Setting Your Boundaries
Schools have opened again. Hooray! There is no parent – especially mums – that I know of that are not ecstatic about this! Now, at last, they will be able to work in a quiet environment. Children, elementary school children, in particular, are also extremely happy! They were so fed up and tired from online schooling, from no socializing, from having to stay indoors most of the time during the quarantine. The pressure they felt topped with the increased screen time has created lots of anger and often aggressive behavior.
For me personally, the most difficult part was dealing with my 8-year-old daughter. Lots of pressure, anger, and frustration, and at times, aggressive behavior. Not easy to put my limits like I used to. Not easy to keep calm and going like I was “supposed” to. I must admit there were times this pressure got to me too and my handling of the situation was not the best. I kept on reminding myself that I’m also a person, I’m also vulnerable and I also have my moments. And no, I’m not perfect and I sure don’t pretend to be.
During this difficult period, I’ve learned quite a few lessons. I’ve also learned how to keep calm and on top of the situation while facing challenging behavior whether from my daughter or my husband. It goes without saying that I will keep these techniques in my precious “how-to-keep-calm-and-set-my-boundaries” tool kit. Here they are:
- Flexibility is a much-needed friend.
- Rules are meant to be reviewed and rewritten.
- Getting out of the room without saying a word is the best initial reaction to the other person’s aggressive behavior.
- Getting into the other person’s shoes opens up your perspective.
- Taking a step back and offering time and space creates miracles both for your child and yourself.
- Self-time is a treasure.
- Self-observation deepens your understanding of your own behavior.
- Expression of feelings without criticism opens up communication.
- A problem-solving attitude creates win-win solutions.
- Mistakes are lessons for all.
Yes, schools are open. Yes, children are excited to see their schoolmates again and parents feel relieved to get their lives back. But life goes on and kids are kids, ready to break the rules and test their power and our patience. When we learn how to handle difficult situations during “calm” times we’re much more prepared to react in fruitful ways in the face of adversity.
Originally Published on: itsmylife.gr
Written by Nadia Georgiou
Originally Published on: itsmylife.gr
Written by Nadia Georgiou
Published in
Parenting
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Wednesday, 12 May 2021 00:38
Douni Island - A Hidden Gem Beach In Attica
With temperatures on the rise, we're happy to be getting outdoors and hitting the beach! Attica is home to many lovely beaches ideal for a day trip. Large or small, organized or not, sandy or pebbly - the choices are unlimited. All you need to do is start exploring and you're sure to find well-hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
One of these hideaways is Douni Island located on the southwestern part of the peninsula. It's indeed a sight to behold. With crystal clear waters, fine sand, and picturesque coves, it feels like you're on one of the celebrated Greek islands, even though you're only 30 minutes away from the heart of Athens.
It's not an organized beach which means you have to bring your own equipment, but this only makes it dreamier. It's like a peaceful sanctuary, a haven of serenity where you're guaranteed endless moments of relaxation under the glorious Greek sun.
How To Get There
Duni island is located near the famous beach of Agia Marina in Koropi. Once you get there, continue driving in the direction to Sounion until you reach the beach of Althea. Then, continue on foot and head to Iliopoulos beach. Just walk through the sea and ta-dah! you're on Duni Island!
Duni island is located near the famous beach of Agia Marina in Koropi. Once you get there, continue driving in the direction to Sounion until you reach the beach of Althea. Then, continue on foot and head to Iliopoulos beach. Just walk through the sea and ta-dah! you're on Duni Island!
Published in
City Discovery
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Wednesday, 12 May 2021 00:03
I Aithousa Tou Thronou - A Great Greek Series Set In Syros
Would you like to travel to a Cycladic Island soon, but still not so confident due to the corona pandemic? Do not worry! If you’re looking to ‘travel’ from the comfort of your own living room whilst staying safe and practicing your Greek skills, we have the perfect idea for you: why not give the Greek TV series I Aithousa Tou Thronou a try?
This Greek TV series was shot in both Attica (Athens, Lagonisi, and Nea Makri) and the island of Syros, where also the Greek Language and Culture courses of the Omilo school take place. If you're interested in discovering Syros and learning Greek, then click here to learn more about Omilo's language programs in Syros.
I Aithousa Tou Thronou (en. The Throne Room) is a Greek period drama TV series that was aired between 1998-99 and was based on a novel by the celebrated novelist and academic Tasos Athanasiadis.
It takes place on the Cycladic island of Syros in 1966, right before the Greek military junta ruled Greece from 1967 to 1974. The socio-political circumstances in Greece are heating up, but at the same time, people are characterized by a certain innocence as they cannot imagine how things are going to develop; everything feels very distant but also very close. The series follows closely a group of young people, whose lives intersect and eventually get tangled up with each other’s. It examines the topics of love, life, death, God and religion, the eternal clash between good and evil, people’s wants, and social conventions.
The story is set in motion by the arrival of two very young people at the island of Syros: the first one is Loukas Delogis, the son of a powerful local family who studied in Paris and spent some time in Mount Athos afterward, also known as Agion Oros. It is a mountain and peninsula in north-eastern Greece as well as home to twenty monasteries, so Loukas tried to become a monk there but failed, so he decides to return to his homeplace. The other one is Glauki Arhontidi, a young Greek woman who lives in London and whose father became a hero during the Katochi, i.e. the German and Italian occupation of Greece during WWII where he died fighting with the Greek resistance army.
The cast includes well-known Greek actors Aris Lembesopoulos, Maria Nafpliotou, Myrto Alikaki, Alekos Syssovitis, Alekos Alexandrakis, Nikos Rizos, and many more.
You can watch the series online on various Youtube channels, but you need to search a bit for the 26 episodes You can start watching the first episode here.
There are no English subtitles for the time being so it would a good exercise for intermediate or advanced Greek learners
Omilo Greek Language and Culture inspires people from all over the world to learn Greek, while exploring Greece. They offer 1- and 2-week courses for adults that combine beautiful course locations, experienced teachers, and a balanced combination of Greek classes with cultural activities. All these make Omilo a place where people enjoy learning modern Greek and have fun.
Besides the courses, Omilo also creates online publications to help adults expand their language skills through Language Books and eBooks for different language levels.
Published in
Greek Language & Culture
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Tuesday, 11 May 2021 23:13
The Municipality Of Athens Transforms The City's Fountains
Fountains are an oasis of coolness for Athens and a pole of attraction both for locals and visitors who want to enjoy some moments of relaxation in the capital's central neighborhoods. Inextricably linked to its history and culture, fountains are part and parcel of the city's life.
In recent years, Athen's fountains were in a state of complete abandonment as many of them stopped operating or were in a very bad condition.
In recent weeks, a major project is underway to restore the city's fountains and turn them into stunning decorative elements that will enhance and improve the city's urban landscape.
The first step was made with the construction of the fountain in Omonia Square, which regained its former glory and gave life to Athen's center. Now, dozens of fountains located in the capital's historic neighborhoods are being renovated, repaired, and maintained in order to significantly improve the residents' quality of life.
The municipality's specialized crews, under the coordination of Deputy Mayor of Green and Electricity, Sakis Kollatos, carry out cleaning and restoration work for the city's 34 fountains, such as repairing the sewerage and lighting systems, construction works, waterproofing, and marble restorations. The first 15 fountains have already been put into operation and in the next few days, five more are expected to be completed.
In recent weeks, a major project is underway to restore the city's fountains and turn them into stunning decorative elements that will enhance and improve the city's urban landscape.
The first step was made with the construction of the fountain in Omonia Square, which regained its former glory and gave life to Athen's center. Now, dozens of fountains located in the capital's historic neighborhoods are being renovated, repaired, and maintained in order to significantly improve the residents' quality of life.
The municipality's specialized crews, under the coordination of Deputy Mayor of Green and Electricity, Sakis Kollatos, carry out cleaning and restoration work for the city's 34 fountains, such as repairing the sewerage and lighting systems, construction works, waterproofing, and marble restorations. The first 15 fountains have already been put into operation and in the next few days, five more are expected to be completed.
XpatAthens extends a warm thank you to This Is Athens and the City Of Athens for sharing news and inspiring stories about how Athens aspires to be a clean, friendly, and welcoming city to live in
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Local News
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