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Thursday, 08 October 2020 07:00
AEGEAN Receives Its First Airbus A321neo
The first A321neo, the largest member of the A320neo family, landed late last week at AEGEAN’s base at Athens International Airport.
The new Airbus A321neo is equipped with advanced Pratt & Whitney GTF™ new generation engines that will reduce CO2 emissions per passenger seat by 23% compared to the current Airbus fleet and by 53% compared to AEGEAN’s initial and new at the time Avro RJ100 aircraft 20 years ago. The new aircraft also brings a significant reduction in NOx emissions per flight and passenger flown by 50% and lowers the noise footprint by 75%, making it the most environmentally friendly and efficient aircraft type ever to join AEGEAN’s fleet.
With an increased capacity of 220 passenger seats, reduced fuel consumption, and an additional range of 1 hour of flight, the new Airbus A321neo is expected to be an added competitive advantage for Aegean, post COVID-19.
To read the press release in full, please visit: aegeanair.com
Published in
Travel Greece
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Tuesday, 06 October 2020 21:51
Open Plan: Autumn & Winter Activities Of Athens & Epidaurus Festival
This year, for the first time in its history, the Athens & Epidaurus Festival expands its activities throughout the autumn and winter season, introducing a series of research initiatives and collaborations, named after the well-known architectural term Open Plan; a term carrying connotations of open space, flow, freedom of thought and movement. As with open plan spaces, this set of initiatives launched by the Festival suggests a new way of being together, of breaking down boundaries and barriers.
The Festival events under the Open Plan umbrella – workshops, masterclasses, performances, webinars, and original artistic works – are addressed both to professional artists and to the public at large, regardless of age.
True to the flexible character of this new project, the majority of the Open Plan events are specially designed to be conducted online, digitally bridging the physical distance that separates us all due to the ongoing pandemic and bringing us all together in a virtual, open space, a terrain of creativity and exchange of ideas.
The Open Plan program, which is free of charge, fulfills three basic goals that pervade our entire programming. First of all, it gives us a foretaste of the Festival program that will be realized in the summer of 2021, in the form of two thematic sections that had already been announced in the original 2020 program, focusing on experimental and electronic music (Chronotopia, held in collaboration with the Berlin-based CTM Festival and Goethe-Institut Athen) and hip hop and street dance culture (Layers of Street). Secondly, the program brings attention to ancient drama, connecting it with contemporary art and daily practice. Thirdly, Open Plan caters to artists (directors, dancers, actors, choreographers, musicians, dramaturges, etc.) and their longing to be active again and hone their tools amid this year’s difficult circumstances. Last but not least, Open Plan is also targeted at a broader audience of all ages, encouraging them to create their own works of art. By eliminating the distance between artists and audiences, by foregrounding creativity and artistic research as fields of expression accessible by everyone, the program aspires to foster a creatively engaged audience that will jointly shape the Festival’s artistic identity.
These events will be held at Hall B of Peiraios 260, in the process reanimating a venue that has been inactive this year – a largely symbolic gesture for culture professionals, who have been dealt a heavy blow by the pandemic.
Published in
Events In Athens
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Tuesday, 06 October 2020 14:20
Microsoft To Build Data Centers In Greece As Part Of "GR For GRowth" Initiative
Microsoft Corp. has announced its "GR for GRowth" initiative, a significant technology commitment to support the people, government, and businesses of all sizes in Greece with the technology and means to create new growth opportunities.
As part of the plan, Microsoft announces its intention to build new data centers in Greece, adding the country to Microsoft's massive global infrastructure map and delivering low-latency, enterprise-grade access cloud services. Furthermore, Microsoft has announced its plan to train approximately 100,000 professionals in Greece in digital technologies by 2025.
The initiative was announcer by Microsoft President Brad Smith at the Acropolis Museum in the presence of the Greek Prime Minister, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, and the General Manager of Microsoft Greece, Cyprus, and Malta, Theodosis Michalopoulos.
"Today's commitment to the people and businesses of Greece will position the country among the digital leaders of Europe. A Microsoft data center region provides a competitive advantage to our digital economy. At the same time, it is a long-term investment and a vote of confidence in our country's potential. The cloud is transforming every industry and sector. The investment in skilling 100,000 citizens will empower Today and tomorrow's Greek workforce," said Prime Minister of Greece, Kyriakos Mitsotakis.
Microsoft's "GR for GRowth" initiative is a vital step for Greece, with technology as a catalyst for growth, providing people and businesses the tools and expertise to thrive and innovate in the digital era.
To read this article in full, please visit: news.microsoft.com
Published in
Greece In The News
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Monday, 05 October 2020 07:00
Human Will Conquers Mount Olympus
A Greek long-distance runner helped a mobility-impaired biology student to fulfill her dream of climbing to the top of Mount Olympus.
Marios Giannakou, who carried Eleftheria–a 22-year-old student from Drama–on his back to Greece's highest point, said that "it was the best and most important struggle of my life, and the best thing I've done as a human being ever."
Giannakou carried Eleftheria in a custom-made backpack and climbed the mountain with an 8-member support crew, including police officers, deep-diving specialists, and a trainer. The team reached a mountain refuge at 2,400 m to spend the night, before setting off at 06:00 am on Monday for Mytikas, Olympus' highest peak at 2,918 m.
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis congratulated the two saying, "It was a fantastic idea, and we are very happy you implemented it," and wishing them a safe return.
Photo Credit: Marios Giannakou
This content has been sourced and prepared by Codico Lab
Photo Credit: Marios Giannakou
This content has been sourced and prepared by Codico Lab
Published in
Local News
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Thursday, 01 October 2020 13:40
The Epigraphical Museum: A Cultural Gem In The Center Of Athens
Did you know that the largest Epigraphic Museum in the world is located in Athens? The Epigraphic Museum hosts in its permanent collection 14,078 inscriptions, which cover the period from early historical times to the Late Roman era. Even though the Museum is housed on the ground floor at the south wing of the National Archaeological Museum, it has a separate entrance from Tositsa street.
The Museum's purpose is scientific research, study, registration, protection, preservation, publication, photographic documentation, and promotion of the ancient Greek inscriptions. The Museum also aims to create a specialized epigraphic library while the inscriptions have already bee digitally cataloged. It hosts temporary exhibitions regularly and organizes art exhibits inspired by Greek script and the ancient inscriptions.
When Was The Museum Built?
The main building dates from 1885, with an extension added in the 1950s.
Why Is The Museum So Important
The ancient Greeks' detailed and diligent record-keeping provides excellent insight on life and society.
Must-See Exhibits
At first glance, the Epigraphic Museum might seem too specialized; however, a complete cost-account of the Parthenon's construction and a prototype voting machine used in the election of state officers in Athens, circa 162 BC will fascinate visitors.
Fun Fact
The detailed financial data chiseled on ancient marble slabs have an odd similarity to a modern-day computer printout.
Address: 1 Tositsa, Athens (Get Directions)
Telephone: 210 8217637 & 210 8232950
Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 09:00 to 16:00 Tuesday Closed.
Discover Some Of The Best Under-The-Radar Museums In The City
Published in
City Discovery
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Thursday, 01 October 2020 12:00
Santorini Experience Is Postponed To October 1-3, 2021
The top sports event Santorini Experience, which endorses the volcanic island of Cyclades for its sports tourism is postponed to October 1-3, 2021. Despite the dynamic efforts and the provision of all necessary permits, licenses, and approvals of health protocols for the safe and smooth implementation of the Santorini Experience in 2020, the event, which has been successfully assigned for the last six years to Active Media Group by the Municipal Sports Cultural Environmental Organization of Santorini (DAPPOS), will not take place in 2020.
Santorini Experience, is the annual sports appointment of Santorini, attracting professional and amateur athletes from Greece and abroad, while presenting unique running activities with a breathtaking view, on the path that connects Oia with Fira and an open water swimming race from the volcano to the old port of Fira. The appointment for the award-winning sea tourism event, with the running and swimming audience, is renewed for October 1-3, 2021.
Approval of Health Protocols
Santorini Experience had received the approval of the Hellenic Swimming Federation for the implementation of the swimming event and the approval of the Hellenic Athletics Federation (SEGAS) for the implementation of the running races. At the same time, Active Media Group had acquired the approval of the Health Scientific Committee of the General Secretariat of Sports, through the strict distinct health protocols designed for running and swimming respectively, while successfully passing the tests of the World Health Organization and World Athletics.
Santorini Experience had received the approval of the Hellenic Swimming Federation for the implementation of the swimming event and the approval of the Hellenic Athletics Federation (SEGAS) for the implementation of the running races. At the same time, Active Media Group had acquired the approval of the Health Scientific Committee of the General Secretariat of Sports, through the strict distinct health protocols designed for running and swimming respectively, while successfully passing the tests of the World Health Organization and World Athletics.
Registrations: Refund or Transfer of Participations to 2021
Active Media Group, always prioritizing the best service of its participants, offers the possibility of a refund to all runners and swimmers who had already completed their registration for Santorini Experience 2020 or alternatively the possibility of transferring their participation to the 2021 event.
Active Media Group, always prioritizing the best service of its participants, offers the possibility of a refund to all runners and swimmers who had already completed their registration for Santorini Experience 2020 or alternatively the possibility of transferring their participation to the 2021 event.
Participants who had completed their registration will receive additional information within the following week, regarding the possibility of transferring their registration to the respective event of 2021 or its cancellation and refund of their registration fee.
A big thank you
Active Media Group would like to thank several people for their ongoing support. First of all, the people of Santorini, those who proved what solidarity, ethics, support, innovation, sustainability, creativity, quality, and vision mean, when society needed it, when Greek tourism needed it.
Active Media Group would like to thank several people for their ongoing support. First of all, the people of Santorini, those who proved what solidarity, ethics, support, innovation, sustainability, creativity, quality, and vision mean, when society needed it, when Greek tourism needed it.
Also, the foreign participants, the foreign champions, the swimmers’ groups from abroad, and the foreign journalists for their patience and understanding.
A huge thanks to the members of the national swimming team, the Olympic medalists and world champions, the technical directors of the races, and all professional and amateur participants for the interest they showed until the very last minute to take part in the top sea tourism event.
Lastly, Active Media Group wishes to express their gratitude towards all sponsors, supporters, and partners, all the Greek and foreign media who stood alongside throughout the year and thank them for all their physical and ethical support.
An event that managed to achieve something unprecedented, to unite major companies of the island, top entrepreneurs, not only of the Greek tourism industry but on a worldwide scale. An event that was rewarded for the excellence of its best practices at the Greek Tourism Awards, the Sports Marketing Awards, and the Ermis Awards receiving foreign distinctions and awards, respectively.
In the aspect of healthcare, no consent or any additional action is required, nor the ratification by another body (e.g. Ministry, National Public Health Organization [EODY]), as the Health Scientific Committee of the General Secretariat of Sports is the competent authority for sports events. In fact, the Committee is in constant contact with the sports committee of EODY for all current developments and more. We should not forget that when we talk about competence, we are talking about legal authority and the most fundamental form of the concept of competence is the constitutional distinction of the functions of a State.
Events will continue to take place, as they were recently held in Evia, Rethymno, Ioannina, as we all must learn to live in the new normal, with safety rules and strict protection measures, as set by the state.
Without fear, but with logic.
Athina Luxury Suites, Vikos Natural Mineral Water, and Blue Star Ferries were the event’s official sponsors.
Luanvi was the event’s official sports supplier.
Boatmen Union Santorini was the event’s official supporter.
Avance was the official car rental partner.
Messinian Spa was the event’s official beauty partner.
SKAI was the premium TV partner.
24MEDIA was the premium media partner.
Red Swim Academy, Swim Academy, Leandros, and Swimmingclub.gr were the athletic partners of Santorini Experience.
The event was assisted by Lifeguard Patrol, Voluntary Lifeguards of Santorini, Atlantis Dive Center, Santorini Nautical Club, and Caldera Yachting.
Tangopapas.com was the event’s travel partner.
Photo by: Babis Giritziotis
In these difficult times, this year’s event was supported with amazing offers and prices by the following hospitality sponsors: Athina Luxury Suites, Santo Maris Oia Luxury Suites & Spa, Canaves Oia, Katikies Santorini, Andronis Arcadia, West East Suites, K&K Unique Holiday Homes, Folia Bianca, Cocoon Suites, Marvarit Suites, Iriana Suites, Nefeles Luxury Suites, Sienna Resort, Santo Houses, Memories Hotel, 270 Oia’s View, Cori Rigas Suites, Uma Ray Suites, Loizos Stylish Residencies, Monolithia, Fanouris Condo, Epavlis Hotel, Iokasti Villa, Olive Cave Houses, Panorama Boutique Hotel, Esperas Santorini and Santorini Hospitality.
Santorini Experience had joined the Greek actions of the #BeactiveHellas 2020 program of the European Commission which is held under the auspices of the General Secretariat of Sports.
Santorini Experience had joined the Greek actions of the #BeactiveHellas 2020 program of the European Commission which is held under the auspices of the General Secretariat of Sports.
Running races were organized along with AS Ifestos Thiras and EAS SEGAS Cyclades Region.
The event joined the swimming community Global Swim Series (GSS) and the running community World’s Marathons.
#santoriniexperience
Published in
Local News
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Thursday, 01 October 2020 22:00
U.S. & Greece Agree To Collaborate On Science And Technology
Earlier this week in Thessaloniki, the U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and the Greek Minister of Development & Investments Adonis Georgiadis signed a joint U.S. and Greece commitment to promote science and technology. This agreement–which replaces a previous more generalized agreement dating back to 1980–will benefit both citizens and the economy while promoting security in the Eastern Mediterranean.
U.S. Chief Technology Officer Michael Kratsios, who attended the signing of the agreement, said in a statement that it "will pave the way for R&D investment, technological advancement, and continued leadership in cutting edge fields."
The U.S State Department has published the agreement fact sheet, which can be found here.
This content has been sourced and prepared by Codico Lab
This content has been sourced and prepared by Codico Lab
Published in
Greece In The News
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Tuesday, 29 September 2020 15:20
The Acropolis’ New Illumination To Be Unveiled Tomorrow
The Acropolis's brand-new lighting design will be revealed on Wednesday, 30 September at 20:00, in the presence of the President of the Greek Republic Katerina Sakellaropoulou, the Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, the Minister of Culture and Sports Lina Mendoni, and the President of the Onassis Foundation, Antonis S. Papadimitriou.
The monument's new illumination is the first of a series of projects carried out by the Ministry of Culture and Sports to upgrade the Acropolis' infrastructure and services. The project has been implemented and funded by the Onassis Foundation.
The new illumination of Athens' most prominent landmark highlights the whole Sacred Rock, the Walls, the volume, and each monument's geometry, from every possible point of view. The marbles, whiter than ever, reflect every aspect, every geometric shape, every natural material, emphasizing the relief of each monument's decoration.
Watch The New Illumination Of The Acropolis, Here
This content has been sourced and prepared by Codico Lab
Photo by Gavriil Papadiotis via digitalculture.gov.gr
Published in
Local News
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Monday, 28 September 2020 07:00
How To Overcome Your Fear During The Pandemic
I meet a lot of people around me whose only topic of discussion is COVID-19. There are so many "what ifs," and the scenarios are not just dark; they are entirely black. It's not that we should not talk about the pandemic that is affecting the whole world. It concerns all of us, and yes, unfortunately, it still holds a prominent place in our daily lives. But there is a big difference between "I take precautions for myself and others" and "the end of the world has come."
Do not allow natural fear to transform into a phobia; while fear can shake you and get you into action, phobia paralyzes you and leads you to inactivity.
What we are going through is difficult and unknown. It's not in our nature to abstain from hugging our family and friends; however, this is the reality humanity faces today; tomorrow, things will be different. There is a light at the end of the tunnel. We know that this, too, shall pass, but we also know that our lives after COVID-19 will not be the same as before. What we refer to as "normal" will not exist. It's not the first time humankind is going through such hard times. World War II is one such example; everyday life on a personal and professional level was different both before and after the war.
Nothing is permanent other than ourselves and our relationships, so we need to take special care. By allowing situations to influence and direct you, you are not helping yourself or others.
So what can you do? Here are some tips that will help:
1. Use the two outstanding skills you already have: patience and endurance. If you feel that you do not possess them 100%, don't worry; a few exercises will help you develop them.
2. Commit to something that is very important to you and that you will do every single day—for example, not checking your cell phone and social media for half an hour every day.
3. Observe what you allow to get into your internal and external environment. This practice will help you maintain a calm state of self-confidence and achieve something you want.
Opportunities exist in every situation. If someone else can do it, so can you!
Nothing is permanent other than ourselves and our relationships, so we need to take special care. By allowing situations to influence and direct you, you are not helping yourself or others.
So what can you do? Here are some tips that will help:
1. Use the two outstanding skills you already have: patience and endurance. If you feel that you do not possess them 100%, don't worry; a few exercises will help you develop them.
2. Commit to something that is very important to you and that you will do every single day—for example, not checking your cell phone and social media for half an hour every day.
3. Observe what you allow to get into your internal and external environment. This practice will help you maintain a calm state of self-confidence and achieve something you want.
Opportunities exist in every situation. If someone else can do it, so can you!
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
Mind
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Monday, 28 September 2020 21:22
Athens Photo Festival 2020 At The Benaki Museum
Athens Photo Festival 2020 is on view at the Benaki Museum / Pireos 138 through 15 November, featuring the work of 108 artists and photographers from 26 countries.
Exploring diverse cultural, artistic, social, and political positions, the Festival brings together a wide variety of works from all the image-based genres, ranging from fine art and conceptual to documentary and photojournalism, photo-based installations, interactive content, and multimedia works. The exhibitions spread over two floors of the museum, covering an area of 2.200 square meters.
At the core of the Athens Photo Festival, in addition to exhibitions, is an engaging and multi-layered program of onsite and online events and the year-round activities, including education and public programs, talent development initiatives, social practice, and community outreach.
Opening hours
Thursday & Sunday: 10:00 – 18:00
Thursday & Sunday: 10:00 – 18:00
Friday & Saturday: 10:00 – 22:00
Published in
Art
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