LIFE & CULTURE

XpatAthens
Artifacts From The Akrotiri Archaeological Site On Display At Exhibition In Rome
In a completely different cultural environment, immersed in the scientific thought of the twentieth century, the rediscovery of the Akrotiri settlement in Santorini in 1967 reopened reasoning on the subject of natural catastrophe and discovery. The ancient Minoan center that was destroyed by a frightening eruption in the middle of the second millennium BC has returned, buried under masses of volcanic ash. Like in Pompei, the valuable discoveries allow us to revive a sophisticated civilization and comprehend the magnitude of the catastrophe that put an end to its history. The eruption induced not only the destruction of the buildings but of an entire era, literally burying it under several meters of volcanic matter.
Held from October 11 to January 06 at the Scuderie del Quirinale, in Rome, the Pompei E Santorini, L'Eternità In Un Giorno exhibition offers an extraordinary and unique comparison between the two ancient sites, united by a common purpose. Both settlements were buried by eruptions, along with their ideas, beliefs, cultures. The theme of catastrophe and rebirth will accompany visitors in a surprising journey back in time that will immerse them in history.
Remains of frescoes, jewels, ceramics, furniture, and everyday objects from both ancient sites will be on display. The exhibition will also include works by artists such as J. M. W. Turner, Andy Warhol, Giuseppe Penone, and Damian Hirst to highlight how the buried cities nourished artistic imagination.
The exhibition is co-organized by Scuderie del Quirinale, Ales SpA, Museo Archeologico di Pompei, and the Ephorate of Antiquities of Cyclades.
Pompei E Santorini, L'Eternità In Un Giorno
October 11 to January 06, 2020
Recycling Do's And Don'ts
Lately, consumers are increasingly willing to recycle their household waste, but are falling behind when it comes to some basic rules of recycling, which means that a lot of recyclable waste ends up in the landfill.
Here is a list of some of the most common misconceptions about what can and cannot be recycled.
Things That CAN'T Be Recycled
• Liquid soap pump dispenser tops
• Kitchen roll
• Non-paper gift wrap
• Coffee cups
• Plastic bags
• Tissues
• Glass cookware
• Window glass
• Straws
• Greasy takeaway pizza boxes
• Soft plastic/laminated foil packaging such as pet food and baby food pouches
• Photo paper
• Nail varnish bottles
• Crisp packets
• Post-it notes
• Shampoo bottles and food containers that have not been rinsed
• Tissue boxes where the plastic insert has not been removed
• Plastic toys
• Mirrors
• Cutlery
• Pots and pans
Items That CAN Be Recycled
• Kitchen foil and foil trays that are used but still clean
• Empty deodorant aerosols and hairspray with the plastic cap
• Empty surface cleaner bottle with the trigger spray
• Metal lids
• Empty bleach bottles
• Envelopes with windows
Elite Athletes In Santorini Experience 2019
The top sports tourism event in Greece was successfully completed with a record of participation from 49 different countries, with visitors staying in Santorini for at least 5 nights.
Participations from 49 countries in Santorini!
Foreign participations surpassed every precedent, as Santorini “hosted” athletes from America, Asia, Europe, and Oceania. Indicatively, participations of swimmers and runners were recorded from Australia, France, Germany, United Kingdom, USA, Japan, Canada, Colombia, Malaysia, Mexico, Russia and Philippines.
Minister of Tourism, Mr. Harry Theocharis preceded the event, saying: “I wish from the bottom of my heart, to all those visiting Santorini, either as competitors to run and swim, or as friends who wish to watch them, to feel the uniqueness of this island and this experience; something which is very rare for anyone to be able to experience. Good luck to all. I wish this very significant tourism destination for our country, such as Santorini, to continue offering such unique experiences to every traveler who visits the island”.
The return of Spyros Gianniotis and the participation of the elite of the Greek National Open Water Swimming Team!
This year’s event featured the silver Olympic medalist in open water swimming Spyros Gianniotis, Japanese Olympic champion in Rio, Yasunari Hirai and the dynamic presence of the elite of the Greek National Open Water Swimming Team such as world champion Kelly Araouzou, European champion George Arniakos and Greek champions Dimitris Negris, Stellina Aplanti, Dimitris Manios, the twin Greek expatriates racing with the colors of the national team of Netherlands, George and Timos Skotadis, as well as Panagiotis Alogakos, Alexia Arvanitopoulou, Andreas Georgakopoulos, Dejan Jovanovic, Irene Diakoumakou, Maria Kirykou, Georgia Kyriakopoulou and Melina Trochalaki.
On Sunday 06/10, swimmers felt the eruptive atmosphere of the volcano. Participants swam the 1.5 miles (2.4 km) route from the volcano to the old port of Fira with the imposing view of the island in front of them at the Open Water Swimming by Vikos. The race was held under the technical direction of federal coach and director with Olympic and World championship distinctions, Nikos Gemelos, with the approval of the Hellenic Swimming Federation, following the FINA regulations, the approval of the Hellenic Coast Guard of 2 Santorini and the permission of Cyclades Regional Tourism Service of Ministry of Tourism.
Men’s winner was Japanese Olympic champion Yasunari Hirai, George Arniakos finished 2nd and Dimitris Manios in the 3rd place. In women, World champion Kelly Araouzou was 1st, Stellina Aplanti finished 2nd and Irene Diakoumakou came 3rd. You can see the detailed results on the official page of the event (in the event there was an extra classification for those wearing wetsuits - wetsuit category): HERE!
Swimming race with the highest possible safety
The absolute safety of the race was ensured with the contribution of the Boatmen Union Santorini, which transported the athletes to the volcano and contributed to the smooth running of the open water swimming, the 100 specialized escorts in the water, mainly assisted by Lifeguard Patrol and several lifeguard boats beyond its staff, Voluntary Lifeguards of Santorini, Atlantis Dive Center, Santorini Nautical Club, Santorini Yacht Cruises and Caldera Yachting, all with more than 30 boats next to the athletes! The organization provided swimmers with a high-quality safety lifeguard buoy. In fact, Olympic champion Spyros Gianniotis set the example by swimming with a lifeguard buoy. The event joined the Global Swim Series (GSS) [numbering more than 150 swimming races].
On Saturday 05/10, the 15km by Samsung, 10km and 5km “Aristides Alafouzos” races were held. Runners had the opportunity to enjoy the three established routes on the Caldera, overlooking the enchanting images of the volcano and the background scenery of Imerovigli, Firostefani and Oia. Specifically, the 5km “Aristides Alafouzos” route concerned the running and dynamic walking, the 10km was addressed to the most experienced in distances and the 15km route by Samsung to those who love strength, endurance and adrenaline. All routes started from the desalination plant in Oia, including parts of the trail track, and finished in Oia. The running routes are designed by the former marathon runner, Greek classic route record holder, running trainer and director of All About Running, Nikos Polias. 5km and 10km running races were co-organized with AS Ifestos Thiras and EAS SEGAS Cyclades Region with the approval of the Hellenic Athletics Federation [SEGAS]. “Santorini Experience” was part of the global community of World’s Marathons [numbering more than 4.391 running races worldwide]. In the following link you can see the running results HERE!
Characteristically within 7.5 kilometers, there were 40 rescuers and lifeguards with first aid experience! With the contribution of the Municipality of Santorini and Municipal Sports Cultural Environmental Organization of Santorini (DAPPOS) the event ensured the cleaning of the path that connects Oia with Fira.
The event received very substantial support and assistance from its official sponsors Athina Luxury Suites, and Alafouzos Sport store where registrations were held throughout the weekend.
On Friday 4/10, the awarded Santo Maris Oia Luxury Suites & Spa as the official sponsor of Santorini Experience gave the opportunity to people to admire the enchanting view of the famous sunset in Oia, by hosting a Sunset Pilates Session with the exceptional instructor, Mandy Persaki under the Cycladic setting harmony, providing smoothies to its guests.
Real Madrid Foundation Clinics for the first time in Santorini!
In the framework of Santorini Experience, and in cooperation with MGC Soccer Central, head coaches from the academies of Real Madrid visited Santorini for the first time and 3 specifically the facilities of the athletic center Playland, from October 3-6, 2019 and taught football to 100 children aged between 6 and 16, using the coaching methodologies of Los Merengues!
The event innovated for yet another year with the official technology partner, Samsung. During the race, runners had the opportunity to try out the latest Fit-e technology and measure the calories they burned, their heart rate and of course their time. At the same time, Samsung helped achieving a zero footprint of the event by contributing to the paperless registration with its devices.
Ford Motor Hellas promoted sports and “fair play” by participating for the 5 th year in the support team of Santorini Experience. Athletes and organizers moved with the safety and efficiency of Ford Motor Hellas cars, the official sponsor of the event.
For another year Vikos SA as an official sponsor spread the message of sporting energy with the natural mineral water “Vikos”, offering the necessary hydration and revitalization to all participants. The natural mineral water “Vikos” offered the necessary balance, well-being and energy that the athletes needed during their exercise in order to be able to continue their effort.
Easy access with Blue Star Ferries!
Santorini Experience ensured once again the best service for all participants, creating ideal conditions for all travelers. All those who travelled to the island by ferry for the 5 th Santorini Experience, were able to enjoy the safety and comfort of the event’s official sponsor, Blue Star Ferries, with offers and discounts applied also on the connection with the Cyclades and Dodecanese group of islands.
For another year, Luanvi was the official sports supplier. The leading company in the sportswear industry in Spain, offered the event’s special technical T-shirt to all participants. The event’s collectible t-shirt featuring elements and symbols of the island and race is now available at Alafouzos Sport store. The t-shirt was perhaps the most beloved souvenir of all.
Official supporters of the event were: Santorini Hoteliers Association, Meltemi Hotels & Resorts and Boatmen Union Santorini.
Avance Rent A Car was the event’s official rental partner helping transportation in the Cycladic island with special discounts and its dynamic fleet of cars.
On was the event’s official shoe partner for the first time. During Santorini Experience, participants had the opportunity to try and buy the top Swiss shoe On, the event’s official shoe partner, which is the ideal trail running shoe on the demanding routes of the event renowned for its design and its technology. National Geographic was the event’s strategic partner and 24MEDIA its premium media partner.
DNA Travel, as the official transport partner of the event, facilitated the transportation of all participants and volunteers of Santorini Experience. Santorini Experience was assisted by West East Suites, Lifeguard Patrol, Assyrtico Wine Restaurant Café, Voluntary Lifeguards of Santorini, Atlantis Dive Center, Santorini Nautical Club, Santorini Yacht Cruises, Caldera Yachting and Erotokritos. Stronger together Another element to the event’s success was the association of all the major hoteliers of the island for the actualization of Santorini Experience.
The event was supported with special offers and prices by its 28 hospitality sponsors: Santorini Hoteliers Association, Meltemi Hotels & Resorts, Athina Luxury Suites, Santo Maris Oia Luxury Suites & Spa, Canaves Oia, West East Suites, Andronis Arcadia, Vedema a Luxury Collection Resort, Mystique a Luxury Collection Hotel, Sienna Resort, Marvarit Suites, Santo Houses, Desiterra Luxury Suites & Villas, 270 Oia’s View, Fanouris Condo, Monolithia, Casa Iphigenia, La Mer Suites & Spa, Antinea Suites & Spa, Beach Boutique Hotel, Bloom Travel, Loizos Stylish Residencies, Iokasti Villa, Olive Cave Houses, Panorama Studios & Suites, Esperas Santorini, Mesana Stone House and White Pearl Villas. VitaNTravel was the event’s official travel agent.
The dynamic team of volunteers contributed to the smooth implementation of the running and swimming races. Santorini Experience joined the Greek actions of the #BeactiveHellas 2019 program of the European Commission and was under the auspices of the General Secretariat of Sports. Santorini Experience was co-organized by the Municipality of Santorini, Municipal Sports Cultural Environmental Organization of Santorini (DAPPOS) and Active Media Group. The event was held under the auspices of the Greek National Tourism Organization with the approval of the Hellenic Swimming Federation.
More info at: www.santorini-experience.com
Official Hashtag: #SantoriniExperience
Photo credit: Danijela Bogdanovic
Mohegan Reveals Plans For Luxury Casino Resort In Athens
Mohegan is competing with Hard Rock International in a tender to build and operate a casino within the planned 8-billion-euro resort at Elliniko on the site of Athens' former international airport. The winner of the tender will construct a large casino, a luxury hotel, entertainment venues, a conference center, and a sports center.
Mohegan's CEO Mario Kontomerkos, stated that all costing, land planning, and architectural design is finished. "We are ready to begin as soon as we receive all the necessary approvals," he said. "We want to start as fast as possible."
“Global Anesthetics” At FokiaNou Art Space
Zach Hart and Alexandra Wilson are based in New York City and began their collaboration in 2018. Both received a BA in art from Hampshire College in 2015 and 2016 respectively. Their works have been shown at Very Project Space (Berlin), Sunview Luncheonette (NY), Northampton Film Festival (MA), and Peripheral Visions Film Festival (NY). Anne Gry Friis Kristensen (born in Danmark, 1987) is a Danish sound artist, composer and filmmaker, educated from The National Danish Film School in 2013.
The opening will take place on Saturday, October 19 at 19:00.
Hours: Wednesday - Saturday 17:00 - 20:00
Teaching Pools In Athens Ideal For Swimming Lessons
Even though there are may recreational pools in and around Athens, water safety is often the reason why parents decide to enroll their infants and children to swimming lessons. However, swimming provides many other benefits during early childhood. In fact, studies have shown that swimming is good for the health, for body development, for balance and coordination, and social and emotional aptitude.
Do you feel that your child is ready to thrive in the pool? Before you start researching teaching pools in Athens and the suburbs, check-out the list below for some of our favorites.
Holmes Place, one of the most upscale fitness clubs in Athens, offers swimming lessons for both babies and children. Children get familiarized with the water and learn the 4 swimming techniques. For more information on the kids swimming classes, please contact one of the Holmes Place clubs or visit Holmes Place online.
Address: Voukourestiou & 4 Stadiou, Athens
Telephone: 210 3259400
Dais Athletic & Cultural Center
Dais Athletic & Cultural Center Maroussi offers a variety of sporting activities for the young and old. Dais offers an excellent baby swimming program for infants aged 1 and a half to 3 and a half years old. The 25-minute baby swimming lessons take place twice a week in a 31-degree-warm small pool, and the presence of a parent is not necessary. Swimming lessons for older children take place at the 5-lane 25 meters long pool under the supervision and guidance of qualified swimming instructors.
Address: 151 Mesogeion, Paradeisos Amarousiou
Telephone: 210 6186050
Aqualife Sport & Health Center
Located in the northern suburb of Anoixi, Aqualife Sport & Health Center is one of the best teaching pools in Athens. Infants can join a baby swimming class together with a guardian in the indoor baby pool, while children aged 3 years and up swim in one of the large indoor pools. Apart from traditional swimming lessons, Aqualife also offers water polo, synchronized swimming, and competitive swimming classes for children.
Address: Agiou Athanasiou & 17 Souliou, Anoixi
Telephone: 210 8004438
Literally meaning Panda In The Water, this teaching pool is one of the very few exclusively for babies and toddlers up to 4 years old. You can start taking your baby to Panta Sto Nero from 3 months old. The lessons are conducted by certified baby swimming instructors and you will be expected to dip into the pool with your child.
Address: 42 Grammou, Vrilissia
Telephone: 210 8047817
Here's what you need to know before joing a pool in Athens.
Monumental Grand Fashion Show Takes Place At The Temple Of Poseidon
The proceeds from the ticketed event are going to children’s cancer charity, ELPIDA.
To read this article in, please visit: vogue.com.au
New Disabled Lift To Be Installed At The Acropolis Of Athens
To ready this article in full, please visit: Greek Travel Pages
Ouzo: A Beginner's Guide
Tyrnavos in Thessaly was the first place in mainland Greece to make ouzo back in 1856. However, the area most associated with ouzo production is Plomari, a coastal village on the island of Lesvos. There are some 300 ouzo brands throughout the country, of which the best known are Ouzo Plomari, Ouzo Varbagianni, Mini Mytilinis, Ouzo 12, and Tsantali.
To read this article in full, please: thisisathens.org
5 Great Destinations To Visit This October
If you have the time and the budget for a more extended trip outside Europe, Canada is an excellent option. Packed with beautiful landscapes and amazing sites, Canada is one of the ideal holiday destinations in the world. Not only is Canada the second-largest country in the world, but it's also home to the breathtaking Niagara Falls and other incredible natural sites. With such a variety of places to visit, don't be surprised if you manage to explore snowy mountains, quaint port towns, and the Arctic Ocean on the same trip.
Great Things To Do: Go to Niagara Falls, visit a maple syrup farm, and explore Toronto's Sugar Beach
Ideal For: Families and honeymooners
Don't miss a visit to the Guinness brewery and the Jameson Distillery. The top attractions and the cheerful Dubliners will make you forget the infamous rainy Dublin weather.