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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.
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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
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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!
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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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Monday, 10 May 2021 13:11
FokiaNou Art Space - Good Old Days
After seven months of lockdown, FokiaNou Art Space is pleased to present a group exhibition of artists focusing on the idea of past times, i.e. pre-Covid, pre-crisis, when we all had different things on our minds. The show is a diverse kaleidoscope of works, including painting, drawing, collage, photography, video and sculpture, which while looking back, also speaks for today’s state of mind and looks forward to better times as well.
Participating artists: Lina Bebi, Sebastian Boulter, John Bicknell, Mary Cox, Irini Diadou, Sarah Ettlinger, Panagiotis Ferentinos, Christos Giannopoulos, Andromachi Giannopoulou, Chris Hawtin, Marietta Kallona, Vassiliki Kanellou, Alexandros Mavrogiannis, Foteini Poulia, Caroline Pradal, Marina Rovithi, Evi Stamou, Iliana Theodoropoulou, Panagiotis Voulgaris, Alexandros Zoulias.
Curated by Mary Cox and Panagiotis Voulgaris.
The use of masks and social distancing are required in all areas of the space, including the roof terrace, halls and elevator.
Published in
Art
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Sunday, 09 May 2021 18:27
Athens’ Anti-Graffiti Initiative Cleans Up Ermou Street
As part of its anti-graffiti campaign, the Municipality of Athens took on the initiative of delivering Ermou street back to the public free of paints and slogans.
This big operation was conducted by the municipality's cleaning units, under the coordination of Deputy Mayor for Cleaning and Recycling, Nikos Avramidis. The specialized crews worked for more than 18 days in order to overturn the image of abandonment in an area brimming with important archaeological findings.
After years of aesthetic vandalism, the stone-built wall of 2,300 m2, located at the archaeological site of Kerameikos, is now, once again, sparkling clean. Six hundred liters of solvent and 88 tons of water were used in order to remove years of graffiti, while the specialized crews used 200 liters of special liquid to ensure the wall's protection against future vandalism. At the same time, graffiti of aesthetic and artistic value was protected with special coverings, which act as a deterrent against any type of vandalism.
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.
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.
Published in
Local News
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Sunday, 09 May 2021 15:19
What Helps Me Deal With My Daughter’s Anger - A Valuable Tool During Quarantine
My eight-year-old daughter is so fed up and tired from online schooling. It’s been going on for a long time now. No kids to play, no socializing, pressure to follow the classes in front of the screen. The same screen we try to put a limit to and tell her to avoid. Double messages, mixed feelings, lots of pressure, lots of anger hence the aggressive behavior.
My husband and I both work from home and we often have to share our home office. We are also tired. We feel the pressure too although we try different ways to cope and recharge. Three people in the house all the time – I can only imagine how it may be with more. It’s very easy to pick up on each other’s stress and mirror it. It’s very easy to let difficult situations escalate to volcano reactions.
The general advice, that I’m sure you’ve heard, is to keep everyday life as stable as before COVID and maintain a routine; as much as possible that is. Because truth is that nothing is the same. In fact, some things have changed so much so that it’s possible they won’t go back to the way they were.
What helps me deal with my daughter’s anger and put things into perspective, especially now during the COVID quarantine, is to try to think of the possible factors that may create it:
- Her specific needs that have not been met.
- Non-realistic expectations – hers and ours.
- The sense that she’s been wronged.
- The sense of not having enough control and choices over her life.
- Her fear of losing someone dear due to the pandemic.
- Physical pain.
- Unfulfilled goals.
- Punishment, conflicts.
Originally Published on: itsmylife.gr
Written by Nadia Georgiou
If there’s a topic you’re interested in and would like to learn more about you may contact me via email. For more information about me and my work check the XpatAthens Directory or visit my website. Because this is your life!
Published in
Parenting
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Thursday, 06 May 2021 14:00
Marble Marvels: A Historic Hike on Mount Penteli
Mount Penteli is one of the four ranges that cradle Athens and at 1,006 metres, is the second highest summit after Mount Parnitha.
The mountain is world-famous for its marble which has long been prized for its purity. The marble quarries there operated from around the 6th century B.C. until the 1940s and yielded the vast bulk of the material used to build the Acropolis and the ancient city of Athens.
We’re headed for the Dionysos open-air marble museum, a reconstruction complete with crumbling miner’s shacks, tool sheds, and dramatic scree mounds, to drive home this mountain’s mighty marble legacy.
During the four hours or so we are up here, we encounter totally different landscapes; from gorgeous open panoramas and austere quarries to woodland meadows carpeted with wildflowers (and rare butterflies). There’s also a delightful trio of storybook chapels the size of Wendy houses, decorated with holy icons, and springwater taps where we top up our bottles with sweet mountain water.
It’s also about what we don’t see. As in other people. Barring a few faded red markings on rocks, Penteli is not a sign-posted route. It helps keep the crowds at bay.
After about 45 minutes, we emerge into a natural clearing backed by an imposing wall of multi-coloured marble rock. This is the climbing section of Penteli. Known as Dionysos, it’s among the most popular in Attica (wider Athens) and one of the few places in Greece where you can pit yourself against sheer marble precipices around 15-20m high.
We’re now standing at the mouth of a steep ramp-like track scattered with marble shrapnel. The path plunges like a black ski-run towards the lush foothills below. This is the platform they used to send marble blocks the size of a car down the mountain. They’d tie them up with cables; then release them slowly on ropes.
I try (and fail) to visualise the Herculean Endeavour of shifting all those mammoth marble bricks from here to the Parthenon building site, some 25 kilometres away.
Next, we stop near the stony reconstruction of what looks like an open-air “staff canteen” built into the sloping quarry, adjacent to the old tool construction area. That’s where they would place the dynamite to break up the rock in modern times. In ancient Greece, they soaked flints in water and stuck them into holes where they would expand and break up the marble.
Many of Penteli’s quarry workers hailed from Paros island. The Parians were good workers, apparently, and had a knack with marble (the legendary Venus de Milo was sculpted from Paros marble).
The Dionysos marble museum isn’t really a museum in the strictest sense. There are no maps or organised exhibits. It’s more of an atmospheric theatre set, built atop the retired ancient quarry to represent everyday working life.
We continue up the steady incline; marble debris clinking musically underfoot, like pebbles knocking together on a shore.
To read this article in full, please visit: thisisathens.org
Next, we stop near the stony reconstruction of what looks like an open-air “staff canteen” built into the sloping quarry, adjacent to the old tool construction area. That’s where they would place the dynamite to break up the rock in modern times. In ancient Greece, they soaked flints in water and stuck them into holes where they would expand and break up the marble.
Many of Penteli’s quarry workers hailed from Paros island. The Parians were good workers, apparently, and had a knack with marble (the legendary Venus de Milo was sculpted from Paros marble).
The Dionysos marble museum isn’t really a museum in the strictest sense. There are no maps or organised exhibits. It’s more of an atmospheric theatre set, built atop the retired ancient quarry to represent everyday working life.
We continue up the steady incline; marble debris clinking musically underfoot, like pebbles knocking together on a shore.
To read this article in full, please visit: thisisathens.org
Photo by: Thomas Gravanis
Thank you This is Athens for your contribution as an XpatAthens Partner.
Whether you've just arrived in town – or have been here for years – Athens always has new secrets to share!
This is Athens is the official guide to this captivating city of ancient energies and booming urban culture. Compiled by a team of specialist local writers, This is Athens brings you an authentic and intimate portrait of a living Athens beyond the guidebooks – along with daily curated listings of all the best events and great weekend inspiration all-year round. From must-know neighbourhoods and emerging art hubs, to gourmet hotspots, cool shopping and the buzziest bars, This is Athens will help you to get the most out of living in Athens!
Thank you This is Athens for your contribution as an XpatAthens Partner.
Published in
City Discovery
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