An Official Tango Competition will take place in Athens from May 22 to 25, as part of the prestigious International Tango Acropolis 2025 festival.

In the heart of culture and art, Athens becomes a vibrant meeting point where the universal language of Tangoconnects dancers from around the world. Participants are invited to experience the magic, energy, and warm hospitality of the city.

The competition is open to both Professional and Amateur dancers in two exciting categories:

• Tango de Pista

• Tango Escenario

Cash prizes of up to €2,000 will be awarded to the winning couples in each category.

If you’re an expat with a bit of freedom in your travel calendar, you’ve got a golden ticket for shoulder season cruises—think the Mediterranean, Greece, and honestly, plenty of other places. Spring and early autumn cruises bring you smaller crowds, pleasant weather, and prices that don’t make your wallet cry, unlike the peak summer rush. The ports and big-name sights are way less chaotic, so you can actually breathe—and enjoy yourself—both on the ship and ashore.

There’s a lot to love about this time of year, from the sunlit Greek islands to those postcard-perfect Mediterranean towns.

There’s just something about shoulder season cruises in the Mediterranean that works for expats who don’t have to stick to school holidays or the typical summer rush. You get to wander through famous spots with fewer tourists, enjoy weather that’s actually comfortable, and nab some real cultural experiences—all while making the most of your travel flexibility and snagging some decent savings.

Traveling in the shoulder season—usually spring or early autumn—means you’re dodging those packed ships and jammed streets. Embarkation lines? Shorter. Disembarkation? Much less hassle. You can actually hear yourself think at the big sights.

Greek islands and those coastal cities take on a whole new vibe outside the high season. There’s time to linger at landmarks, and you’re not elbowing your way through selfie sticks. Museums and restaurants are easier to get into, and the staff aren’t run off their feet. It’s a slower pace, and honestly, it’s just nicer—lets you soak in each stop without feeling like you’re on a conveyor belt.

Spring and early autumn in the Mediterranean? Pretty much perfect. Warm, but not the kind of heat that makes you question your life choices. You can actually enjoy those walking tours or beach days without melting.

This is also when you’ll stumble into harvest festivals, concerts, or little local happenings that don’t make it onto the tourist brochures. Locals are back in their routines, and you get a glimpse of real daily life—cities start to feel like themselves again. If you’re after that sweet spot of sunshine, chill crowds, and a bit of immersion, Greek island cruises during shoulder season are a solid bet.

Being an expat means you can play around with your schedule. You’re not locked into school breaks or the usual holiday chaos, so you can pounce on last-minute offers or those random shoulder season promos cruise lines throw out to fill up cabins.

It’s easier to work around your local commitments, maybe sneak away for a week without causing a stir at work. You get first dibs on better cabins and more options for where and when you go. So, you can really stretch your travel budget—and probably have more fun, too.

Shoulder season opens up a bunch of chances for expats to see quieter places and save some cash. With a little planning, you can catch mild weather, interesting itineraries, and deals that are actually worth it—across the Med and beyond.

Think April to early June or September through early November—these are the golden months. Greece is a no-brainer: the islands are gorgeous, and you don’t have to fight your way through Santorini or Mykonos. It’s almost weird how peaceful it feels.

Italy’s Amalfi Coast and Spain’s Balearic Islands are also way more enjoyable without the summer mobs. The weather’s still great for exploring, so you’re not stuck hiding in the shade.

Turkey’s coastline—Bodrum, Kusadasi—has this cool, relaxed energy, and you won’t be jostling with crowds. And Croatia? Dubrovnik and Split are honestly best outside the sweaty, packed summer peak.

If you want the best deals, you’ll want to book either way in advance or roll the dice on a last-minute offer. Grabbing a spot six to twelve months early can get you good cabins and those elusive early-bird prices, especially for those spring and autumn sailings everyone’s after.

Or, if you’re flexible, keep an eye out for last-minute bargains—sometimes cruise lines drop prices just to fill a few empty rooms. “Wave season” (January to March) is another hot tip: lots of discounts and perks like onboard credit. For more tricks, these insider tips for finding the best cruise deals are worth a read.

Sign up for mailing lists or alerts from agencies that know their Mediterranean stuff. You’ll be the first to know about flash sales, exclusive deals, or those oddball repositioning cruises that sometimes turn out to be the best adventures.

Living abroad? You’ve got a bit of an edge—cruises leaving from regional ports like Athens, Barcelona, or Rome can seriously cut down on airfare and travel hassles. I mean, who wants to spend half their trip just getting to the ship? If you can swing a midweek departure, that’s where the sneaky good deals usually hide.

Being flexible with your dates and poking around at different itineraries—yeah, it takes a little patience, but it’s worth it. I’ve noticed spring and autumn are when those multi-country cruises really drop in price. Not a bad time to see more for less.

Honestly, don’t underestimate the power of local expat groups and travel forums. People love sharing their latest finds and promo codes, and sometimes you’ll stumble across tips you’d never find on your own. If you want to dig deeper, there’s always Travel + Leisure’s guide on how to find the best cruise deals—it’s pretty thorough.

 

Navarino Challenge returns dynamically on May 9-11, bringing together amateur and professional athletes with the presence of Olympians and world champions. With the message “Sports Unites People”, the event will feature a rich schedule with more than 60 activities and 20 Olympic sports. Participants will have the opportunity to live this unforgettable experience at Costa Navarino and Pylos with the events hosted at The Westin Resort Costa Navarino, W Costa Navarino, and The Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort.

Navarino Challenge continues to lead the way in sports tourism, maintaining its position as one of Greece’s top events. At the recent Sports Marketing Awards and Sponsorship Awards 2025, the event received a total of 28 distinctions – 3 Platinum, 18 Gold, 6 Silver, and 1 Bronze – confirming its strong impact and innovative spirit.

The event was recognized as the top sports tourism event, the top wellness event, and the top multi-sport event. It stood out for its strategic approach to branding and sales, its innovative fan engagement program, its alternative and children-focused activities, its meaningful use of content creators, and its exceptional sponsorship collaborations with Miele Hellas and the MOTODYNAMICS Group.

As every year, the event remains committed to promoting values that support society, solidarity, and health. Participants are invited to take part in activities that help the fight against obesity while also being educated on the benefits of the Messinian diet. The event embraces the values of the Olympic Ideal, promoting a peaceful and better world without discrimination—where every athlete is awarded their own medal, celebrating participation and effort.

For the first time this year, the event joins forces with one of the greatest figures in Greek basketball, Panagiotis Giannakis – the only athlete in European basketball history to have won a European Championship both as a player and as a coach.

As part of this unique collaboration with Giannakis Academy, the innovative academy founded by the Greek Olympian and dedicated to the education and development of young athletes, the Basketball Clinic powered by Melissa will offer unforgettable sports experiences. Children aged 5 to 15 will have the opportunity to improve their skills and develop their athletic character alongside the legendary Greek basketball icon. At the same time, through Melissa High Protein and Melissa Boost products, participants will learn about the importance of proper nutrition and energy for a healthy and active sports lifestyle.

Basketball is one of the core pillars of this year’s event, with activities designed for everyone—from young athletes to basketball professionals.

Girls aged 5 to 16 will have the chance to grow and be inspired by Olympian and EuroBasket MVP Evina Maltsi, who is passionately focused on the development and empowerment of girls in basketball. She will lead the Girls Basketball Clinic powered by Trace ‘n Chase.

Meanwhile, the 4on4 basketball tournament powered by Trace ‘n Chase promises intense competition and spectacular plays, as teams collaborate and battle for victory.

The action-packed Knock Out Challenge powered by Trace ‘n Chase, featuring EuroLeague legend Joe Arlauckas, adds even more excitement, offering fast-paced and dynamic matchups where participants test their skills in a game that combines precision, speed, and strategy.

Additionally, this year’s event embraces the power of inclusive sports, with the Wheelchair Basketball Demonstration Game powered by Vikos. Champion basketball player Georgia Kaltsi and athletes in wheelchairs will deliver powerful moments of competition and inspiration, promoting inclusion and equal participation in sports.

This year’s Navarino Challenge schedule introduces an exciting innovation: the “Navarino Challenge Talks”, a series of talks focusing on sports, health, and wellness. One of the featured speakers will be Elisabeth Calbari (Corporate Neurosciences Psychologist | TEDx & International Keynote Speaker, Founder of Self Balance), who will speak about the power of exercise, leadership, and mental balance, highlighting how high achievers—both in business and in sports—live like Olympians in their daily lives, guided by determination and goal-oriented focus.

With the support of the MOTODYNAMICS Group, Olympian and former international basketball player Dimitris Papanikolaou will share his personal journey and the challenges he has faced, inspiring the audience through his experiences in both sports and inclusion.

Thanasis Chountras, motorsport coach, will dive into important topics related to road safety. Award-winning chef Ettore Botrini will give a special talk, unveiling the secrets of gastronomy, discipline, and creativity required to reach the top in his field. As part of the Obesity Awareness and Information Seminar powered by Novo Nordisk, participants will hear from Mrs. Mary Karageorgou, External Affairs Director of Novo Nordisk Hellas, and Dr. Spyros Sapounas, endocrinologist-diabetologist, Vice President of the Hellenic Medicines Organization, and former Vice President of the Hellenic National Public Health Organization. They will highlight the challenges of obesity across all ages and the solutions offered by modern science.

Additionally, through the initiative of π³ = Plastic Pollution Prevention and Humanity Greece, the event will connect NGOs with the world of sports, emphasizing the importance of reducing plastic pollution, raising environmental awareness, encouraging volunteerism, and promoting social solidarity, with the participation of non-profit organizations and the athletic community.

Navarino Challenge is proud to welcome back Kostas Katsouranis, Euro 2004 Champion with the Greek National Team, for the second time. The former international midfielder, who has had a remarkable career with top Greek and European clubs, returns once again to support the next generation.

For yet another year, under his guidance, the Football Clinics powered by Miele will take place for children aged 5 to 17, with the support of the model football academy Falcons Football Academy.

The F45 Barrio Salamanca HYROX powered by KORRES will make its debut this year, introducing a cutting-edge hybrid race that combines running with high-intensity functional exercises. With four world championships already under its belt, HYROX is considered the sport of the future, attracting athletes from a variety of sports disciplines.

The race and training include running, rowing, and dynamic exercises, challenging both the endurance and strength of participants. Athletes are required to complete eight different workout stations, with 1 kilometer of running between each station.

HYROX is a unique challenge that pushes the limits of fitness, strength, and endurance. It demands commitment and systematic preparation while offering multiple benefits for both amateur and professional athletes alike.

As part of the event, the MOTODYNAMICS Group supports society through initiatives that promote responsibility, innovation, and social contribution. Together with former international basketball player, Olympian, and Group ambassador Dimitris Papanikolaou, they will organize a special Inclusion Talk in schools of the Pylos-Nestor Municipality, promoting acceptance of diversity and inclusion through sports.

In parallel, middle and high school students in the region will have the opportunity to attend a specialized Road Safety Seminar, led by motorsport coach Thanasis Chountras. Thematic talks will also take place at Costa Navarino, as part of the Navarino Challenge Talks, focusing on both road safety and social integration, aiming to raise awareness and inform all participants.

The physiotherapists of Joint Athens, Aggelos Giakoumidis and Giorgos Poulianitis, will lead specialized sessions focusing on immediate lower back protection from pain and injuries, stress relief for the body, and the meaningful improvement of mobility—helping participants move freely and without discomfort.

At the same time, the exceptional Ifigenia Baka, pilates instructor and owner of Breath Pilates Studio, will lead two unique sessions: a full-body workout for all ages through Pilates High Intensity Interval Training, and a Stretch and Strength class designed to enhance flexibility and mobility.

The international retail company JYSK, constantly evolving, supports unlimited access to sports, by promoting initiatives that celebrate diversity, equality, and inclusion — core values of the brand.

As part of this year's Navarino Challenge, JYSK will support, for the first time, the sports of Boccia, featuring 7-time Paralympic medalist Grigoris Polychronidis, and Wheelchair Tennis, with Greek national champion and national team member Giorgos Lazaridis. Attendees will have the opportunity to discover these sports and be inspired by the athletes’ stories and achievements.

With this initiative, JYSK reinforces its commitment to creating an environment where every athlete can feel the power of participation and perseverance.

Since June 1989, JYSK has been the main sponsor of Parasport Denmark, making it one of the longest-standing sports sponsorships in Denmark. JYSK proudly supports athletes in achieving outstanding results over time.

As the company expanded and opened new stores abroad, this sponsorship extended to other countries as well.

At the same time, JYSK will welcome participants to the event with a Welcome Cocktail & Finger Food powered by JYSK, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere where relaxation and socializing meet a shared passion for sports.

With the experience and expertise of Triantafyllidis Beach Arena and former international volleyball player and Greek national team record-holder, Michalis Triantafyllidis, Beach Volley offers a sports experience filled with energy, passion, and summer vibes. Participants will enjoy their favorite sport by the sea, taking part in two different tournaments: the classic and well-established King of the Court Beach Volley Tournament powered by Bacardi, as well as, for the first time, the Family Beach Volley Tournament powered by KORRES, which focuses on family participation.

The Men’s Round Robin Tennis Tournament powered by Grey Goose Super Premium Vodka raises the level of competition, delivering high-caliber matches. Focusing on performance and style, participants will have the chance to test their skills in dynamic games while enjoying an exciting tennis experience at the state-of-the-art Mouratoglou Tennis Center at Costa Navarino.

---

Watch the teaser video of this year’s Navarino Challenge and get ready for a schedule full of surprises and new experiences!

---

Participants will have the opportunity to compete in one of the top Half Marathons in Greece, the Navarino Challenge Half Marathon powered by The North Face, alongside Greek-American ultramarathon runner Dean Karnazes. The iconic beach of Messinia, known for its distinctive shape resembling the Greek letter Ω, is considered one of the most beautiful in the world and provides the perfect backdrop for a unique running experience. It is the only trail race that combines different terrains – dirt, sand, and asphalt – offering an exciting and demanding course.

At the same time, runners can take on the enchanting 10km route powered by Dimello, alongside the sea, or the 5km route powered by Miele, through centuries-old olive groves, which can even be followed with a dynamic walk.

All running events are co-organized with the Messiniakos Gymnastic Club and the EAS SEGAS Peloponnese Region.

Join the action and choose the route that suits you! You can participate in races of 21.1km, 10km, 5km, or 1km, while the children’s races 1km for ages 10-14 and 1km for ages up to 9 powered by Vikos, are free of charge. At the same time, participants will have the opportunity to take part in the 1km Run For All race powered by the MOTODYNAMICS Group, supported by the DiaforoΖΟ club for people with disabilities. Sign up easily by completing the related form you will find here.

For yet another year, all runners will enjoy exceptional and exquisite gifts from the sponsors. Specifically, athletes who finish the 21.1km powered by The North Face will receive t-shirts from the top outdoor apparel and equipment company. Similarly, runners of the 5km powered by Miele will receive unique gifts from the world’s top manufacturer of high-quality household appliances, Miele. 

Experience a weekend full of outdoor sports activities for all ages! Get the complete sports activities package and enjoy an unforgettable athletic and cultural experience. For information about accommodation packages at W Costa Navarino, The Westin Resort Costa Navarino, and The Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort, you can send your email at booking(at)navarinochallenge.com or contact Vita N Travel at +30 210 3249070. Discover the packages here.

Platinum Sponsor is Miele.

Gold Sponsor of the event is MOTODYNAMICS Group.

Silver Sponsors are JYSK, KORRES, Melissa, The North Face, and Chiquita.

Strategic Healthcare Sponsor is Novo Nordisk.

Official Water is Vikos Natural Mineral Water. 

Official Hospitality Sponsors are Costa Navarino and the hotels W Costa Navarino, The Westin Resort Costa Navarino, and The Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort.

Official Sports Supplier is 42K.

Bronze Sponsors are Dimello, Trace ‘n Chase, Patron, and Pilia Express.

Premium Mobility Partner is SIXT, member of MOTODYNAMICS Group.

Οfficial Partners of Navarino Challenge are Messinian Nest, Pylos-Nestor Municipality.

Authentic Flavor Partner is Navarino Icons.

Official Optics Partner is Kois Optics.

Official Healthy Catering Partner is TO BAZAKI.

Official Supporters are Messinian Spa, Alpha Estate, Εlite Boats, Messinia Transfer, Vlaha, SportAdore, Karalis Beach Hotel, Karalis City Hotel, Silk Gonos, Memmos, and Rania's Flower.

Premium TV Partner is SKAI.

Premium Media Partner is Liquid Media.

Sustainability Partner is π³ = Plastic Pollution Prevention.

Educational Partner is University of Piraeus.

Athletic Partners are Angelic Yoga Arts, Breath Pilates Studio, F45 Barrio Salamanca, Falcons Football Academy, FitnessArt, Free Movement Skateboarding, Giannakis Academy, Joint Athens, Moraitis Outdoors, Moraitis Watersports, Mouratoglou Tennis Center Costa Navarino, Navarino Golf Academy, Pilates by Mandy, Red Swim Academy, Swim O’Clock, and Triantafyllidis Beach Arena. 

The event is assisted by Vita N Travel, and Humanity Greece. 

Navarino Challenge will take place under the auspices of the Greek Ministry of Tourism and the Greek National Tourism Organization, with the organization and sports production managed by ActiveMedia Group.

More information about this year's activities and the schedule will be announced in the coming days.

#navarinochallenge #costanavarino #sportsunitespeople #eatwell #runwell #livewell

Website
Facebook
Instagram
X 
YouTube
TikTok

One of the most prestigious international beach volleyball competitions in the world, Nations Cup, is coming for the first time to TUI Magic Life Candia Maris of Metaxa Hospitality Group, in Crete, on May 16-18, 2025.

The top sporting event is held under the auspices of the European Volleyball Confederation (CEV) and the corresponding Hellenic Volleyball Federation with the co-organization of the Region of Crete, the Municipality of Malevizi, and Metaxa Hospitality Group, in order to promote Crete as a global sporting and tourist destination.

Nations Cup particularly promotes team spirit, as athletes do not compete as individual pairs, as is usually the case in traditional tournaments, but represent their national teams. Each country participates with two pairs, which compete in an innovative system of competition where collective effort and strategy determine the winner.

This year, athletes from six countries will participate in the top sporting event that promotes the development of the sport. In the men's category, the national teams of the Netherlands, Hungary, Luxembourg, and Greece will compete, while in the women's category, the teams of Poland, Estonia, and Greece will be represented. The event enhances competitiveness at a global level and showcases the talent of athletes who transcend borders, bringing the public closer to powerful sporting moments.

The 5-star hotel of the Metaxa Hospitality Group, TUI Magic Life Candia Maris, which will host the Nations Cup next month, has state-of-the-art facilities and infrastructure of international standards, while it is located in an excellent seaside location in the area of Amoudara, just 5 kilometres from the centre of Heraklion.

By co-organizing and hosting the Nations Cup, Metaxa Hospitality Group, which this year completes 50 years of uninterrupted operation, confirms its commitment to promoting major sporting events of international importance and contributes to the promotion of Crete as a high-level destination for athletes and visitors from all over the world.

It is indicative that the leading Greek hotel group has undertaken this year the organization of two more major world volleyball tournaments that will be held for the first time in Crete. This is an international event that promises to bring world-renowned athletes to Greece and the Marathon, which will be one of the most exciting events of the year. Both tournaments will be hosted in November 2025 at Metaxa Hospitality Group's TUI Magic Life Candia Maris, offering excellent opportunities for sport and tourism in one of the most beautiful coastal areas of Northern Crete. 

The Nations Cup in Crete is expected to have significant benefits for both the local community and the country as a whole. 

The arrival of athletes, coaches, and fans from all over the world will boost tourism, extending the duration of the tourist season on the island. At the same time, the tournament will create increased demand in sectors such as hospitality, catering, and transportation, providing a boost to local entrepreneurship.

On a national level, hosting such an important event will highlight Greece as a center of international sports tourism, enhancing the country's image as a destination of high standards and encouraging the organization of more international sports events in the future.

The Regional Governor of Crete, Mr. Stavros Arnaoutakis said: “It is with great pleasure that the Region of Crete supports the organization of the European Beach Volley Nations Cup 2025, a great sporting event that enriches the calendar of international events that have been hosted on our island in recent years. We warmly congratulate Metaxa Hospitality Group for undertaking this important event and the Hellenic Volleyball Federation for their cooperation in the preparation of the tournament. The Beach Volley Nations Cup promotes Crete as a top sports tourism destination and enhances the international image of our island”.

The Mayor of Malevizi, Mr. Menelaos Bokeas said: “It is with great pleasure and honor that we participate as co-organizers of the "Beach Volleyball Nations Cup", which will be held on May 16-18, 2025, at the facilities of the hotel "TUI Magic Life Candia Maris" in Amoudara Gazi, Municipality of Malevizi. We support such innovative, visionary initiatives that enhance the tourism product of our region and make it a destination for the global sports community. Many congratulations are due to the organization of "Metaxa Hospitality Group" and its people for this truly great initiative. This first international volleyball tournament organized in our region is a forerunner for the brilliant events that will follow, and to which we will lend our support. The prospects are very encouraging, not only for our region but also for the whole of Crete. Sport unites. It expresses and creates communities of people inspired by higher ideals and values. And when experiential tourism, and especially sports tourism, brings together people from different countries and cultures, and all this effort is passed on to the everyday life of our country and its people, something great is born, something beautiful and unique comes to be established and developed. With this event, with all the synergies it requires, with all the interactions it causes, with all the creativity it generates, we all make our mark as participants and sign the future. Success is more than certain”.

The President of the Hellenic Volleyball Federation, Mr. George Karampetsos stressed: “In the first post-Olympic season after the Olympic Games in Paris, Greece is once again entering the beach volleyball scene with dozens of domestic and international high-level competitions in accordance with the high standards of the world federation. The 2025 calendar starts from Heraklion, Crete, which in recent years has played a leading role in the top sand events. The Nations Cup, which is the first event for our national teams that will enter the qualification process for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, is the ideal start for the events we have planned as a Federation for the 2025 season. As always, the Region of Crete is a valuable ally, and I would like to thank the Regional Governor of Crete, Mr. Stavros Arnaoutakis for his valuable contribution, Metaxa Hospitality Group for its support, and all the supporters and stakeholders involved in this event. I wish to extend my best wishes for organizational growth and competitive excellence, especially to the national teams, and I am sure that they will manage to excel, representing our country in the international beach volleyball scene".

The CEO of Metaxa Hospitality Group, Mr. Andreas Metaxas stated: “In a landmark year, as Metaxa Hospitality Group completes half a century of existence in 2025, we are particularly proud to co-organize such an important sporting event, the Nations Cup, which is coming back to Crete this year. By hosting three international tournaments on the island in less than six months, Crete is emerging as a top sports tourism destination, attracting athletes and spectators from all over the world. The holding of these events confirms our commitment to the development of sport and the strengthening of the local society and economy, placing Crete at the heart of the international sporting map”.

The return of a beach volleyball world championship to Greece would not have been possible without the contribution of Technical Director Vangelis Polimeropoulos through the Best Sports Marketing and Events company in Greece, ActiveMedia Group.

Metaxa Hospitality Group is a leading Greek group of authentic hospitality services that celebrates 50 years of uninterrupted operation this year.  Recognized as the "Best Hospitality Group in Greece" by the World Travel Awards 2021 - 2024, it operates luxury resorts and 5-star hotels with more than 1,100 beds in Crete (Creta Maris Resort, TUI Magic Life Candia Maris) and Santorini (Santo Collection Resorts & Villas). It was founded in Crete in 1975 by the late Nikolaos Metaxas. His legacy is carried on by his family, led by Mr. Andreas Metaxas, who has guided the Group into a new era of dynamic growth. The Group, recognized with dozens of international awards and certifications, operates according to the principles of Sustainable Development, where employees, the local community and visitors are at the heart of its activities. https://www.metaxahospitality.gr

Jerome Kaluta, this unique guy who has given us great musical moments and a lot of laughter, together with 7 musicians they are coming for an unforgettable musical experience on Wednesday, April 30, at the historic Kyttaro Live Stage!

An evening full of rhythm, energy and groove, where the disco-funk of the decades embraces the ukulele and Jerome's original pieces, in a unique party! Through the sound of Brass and Percussion we will hear from the viral "Kalavryta" and "Vouno" to songs from the 80's 90's RNB-DISCO, James Brown, Ray Charles, Salt n Pepa and many more legendary artists with all time classic hits, always with the inexhaustible energy that Jerome brings to the stage!

With Super Hero Guests Idra Kayne and Spyros Grammenos!

Jerome is accompanied by:

Nikos Anastasiadis - Drums
Odysseas Apostolopoulos - Keyboards/Vocals
Jenny Hatzopoulou - Vocals/Keyboards
Michalis Karagiannis - Guitar
Georgos Kalogeropoulos - Bass
Stelios Michas-Englezos - Trombone
Carlos Menendez - Congas/Percussion
Yiannis Papaioannou - Sound Engineer (FOH)
Victoria Papadopoulou - Production Management / Afrogreco Entertainment
Photography - Antonis Byrizas
Artwork: Eliza Zarifi
Video trailer: Antonis Byrizasy
Contact: Tzina Fountoulaki - Alexandros Karamalikis

Tickets: Presale: 12 euros / General Admission Box Office: 15 euros

Note: The ticket is for entry to the venue (bar) only. For seating reservations, call: 2108224134 / 6977641373

The Maria Callas Museum is expanding its mission beyond its walls, reaching young patients at the “Agia Sofia” Children’s Hospital with a unique and inspiring educational program titled "The Power of My Voice – A Musical Journey with the Maria Callas Museum."

True to its educational and social mission, the Museum is stepping into new territory, offering hospitalized children a chance to explore creativity, self-expression, and communication through the universal language of music.

This original music-education program is specially designed for children staying at the hospital. It includes musical improvisation, theatrical play, and visual arts activities, all aimed at encouraging self-discovery and emotional expression. Each child even gets the chance to create their own musical composition, which is recorded and gifted to them – a personal keepsake from a moment of inspiration.

What makes this initiative even more special is that authentic items from the museum’s collection – such as photographs, annotated scores donated by the Hellenic Maria Callas Association, and Maria Callas’ own leather gloves, a gift from Konstantinos and Viktoria Pylarinou – are brought directly into the hospital space. Children are given the rare opportunity to see these cultural treasures up close, forging a personal connection with the legacy of one of the world’s greatest opera icons.

In this way, the performing arts become not just accessible, but deeply meaningful and experiential.

This touching initiative is the result of close collaboration between the Maria Callas Museum’s experienced team and composer/music educator Markella Skourti, founder of AMKE “The Path of Music.”

The project was warmly embraced by the hospital’s administrative board and the Head of the Nursing Services Department, Ms. Efrosyni Vlachioti, making it possible to bring this program to life in a nurturing and supportive environment.

Two workshops have already taken place, receiving overwhelmingly positive feedback and proving just how impactful exposure to the arts can be in boosting emotional resilience and sparking joy in children’s lives.

This initiative is part of the Maria Callas Museum’s broader outreach strategy, which continuously invests in sharing its cultural identity through innovative methods. By bringing music, art, and legacy to communities that need it most, the Museum redefines what it means to be a truly public cultural institution.

Your favorite neighborhood café just got greener, bolder, and a whole lot more creative.

This spring, This is Loco in Koukaki is turning weekends into a blooming celebration of plants, art, and good vibes with a series of curated pop-ups that bring together local talent and a love for all things beautiful. Here's what’s coming up:

Date: Saturday, April 12
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Host: Konstantinos Douvlis - @sanopwleio

On Saturday, April 12 Koukaki gets a tropical twist! Sanopwleio brings a curated jungle of over 200 handpicked indoor plants and 100 pots, perfect for brightening up your home. Whether you're a seasoned plant lover or just want to soak in some green energy over coffee, this is your kind of Saturday. Come for the plants, stay for the vibes — and don’t forget to say hi to Konstantinos!

 

Date: Saturday, April 26
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Host: Jenny - @oh.my.yard

Get ready for a floral takeover! Oh My Yard is teaming up with This is Loco to bring you a dreamy mix of lush greenery, vibrant blooms, and garden-inspired vibes. Perfect for spring refreshes or finding that unique plant to complete your shelf.

Dates: Friday, May 16 & Saturday, May 17
Time: All day
 @dedenia

Coming in May, artist Denia Panagaki will transform the space with her signature hand-painted creations. From beach bags to T-shirts, mugs to mini artworks, every piece is one of a kind. Theme to be announced — but trust us, you’ll want to mark your calendar.


 @dedenia

This is Loco is the spot to be this spring. Come hang, browse, sip your favorite drink, and connect with local creatives turning weekends into little celebrations of nature and expression.

☕🌸 See you there!

Main Image Credit: @oh.my.yard 

THEATRE OF THE NO, Athens' first English-speaking theatre, proudly presents internationally acclaimed saxophonist, composer, and researcher Dimitris Vassilakis with the Dimitris Vassilakis Quartet.

On Saturday 12th , April at 22:30,  an unforgettable night of blues and ballads, featuring selections from his award-winning Candid Records discography, beloved jazz standards, and fresh material from his newly remastered release, «Labyrinth  Daedalus Project». This unique performance blends jazz improvisation, poetry, and storytelling, creating a captivating dialogue between music and spoken word.

Opening:  Friday, 11 April 2025,18:00
Duration:  11 -13 April 2025 / Hours:  Saturday and Sunday 16:00-20:00

FokiaNou Art Space is pleased to present a three-day group exhibition featuring seven artists from Germany, curated by artist/gallerist Christian Schmid, who runs ShowroomSchmitt, an independent art space in Karlsruhe, Germany. The exhibition is part of a cultural exchange between the two independent spaces, offering the opportunity to showcase German artists in Athens, as well as to promote Greek artists in Germany, fostering dialogue between the visual art scenes of the two cities. In early May, artists from FokiaNou will exhibit their works in Karlsruhe, contributing to a creative bridge between Greece and Germany.

The artists were part of the exhibition "Locals only" that took place in February 2025 at ShowroomSchmitt, an alternative art show to the "Art Karlsruhe", an annual commercial art fair. Today, they enthusiastically reunite in Athens, co-exhibiting at FokiaNou Art Space. From this connection comes the exhibition’s title: "Karlsruhe-Athen. Auf Wiedersehen." 

Colorful facets of individual life worlds can be discovered under the sun of the south, through a variety of works from modest materials: the grimacing portrayal of the leader of the free world or a delicately painted pool and an immersive cinema experience. Some pieces delve into conspiracy theories, others address monetary realities, but they are reflections on the artists’ experience.

FoKiaNou Art Space is an artist-run project space in the intimacy of a small apartment in an old building in the center of Athens.  The apartment has been transformed into an open space that encourages collaborative creative efforts between Greek and foreign artists, thereby promoting and supporting the local art community.  The space hosts exhibitions, workshops and projects under the direction of two artists, Mary Cox and Panagiotis Voulgaris. 

Losing a beloved pet is one of the hardest things any pet owner can face. Our furry companions are more than just animals—they are family, offering unconditional love, loyalty, and joy throughout their lives. While their time with us may be limited, their impact is everlasting. That’s why initiatives like Cats & Dogs Animal Cemetery in Koropi, Attica are so important. They provide not just a resting place for pets but also a way to celebrate their lives and cherish their memories forever.

Cats & Dogs Animal Cemetery offers individual and mass burials, cremation services, and even personalized memorial options like engraved markers and memorial jewelry. These thoughtful services allow owners to honor their pets in a way that brings peace and comfort, ensuring that their bond is never forgotten.

The cemetery itself is a serene and well-maintained sanctuary, providing a dedicated space where owners can visit, remember, and reflect on the happy moments they shared with their pets. Knowing that their beloved companions are laid to rest with dignity and love can bring a sense of closure during a difficult time.

While the thought of losing a pet is heartbreaking, the existence of such cemeteries reflects a growing shift in how we, as a society, value and respect our animal companions. Initiatives like this offer hope and healing, showing that our love for pets extends beyond their lifetime. More cities in Greece are now embracing similar ideas, ensuring that pet owners everywhere can say their final goodbyes in a meaningful way.

At its core, the Cats & Dogs Animal Cemetery is not just about loss—it’s about love. It’s about celebrating the joy our pets brought us, the lessons they taught us, and the unbreakable bonds we shared. While saying goodbye is never easy, having a beautiful and respectful way to do so makes all the difference.

And in the end, isn’t that what our pets would want? For us to remember them with love, gratitude, and a heart full of happy memories? Thanks to initiatives like this, we can do just that.