XpatAthens

XpatAthens

According to the latest annual bathing water quality report published by the European Environment Agency (EEA) and the Commission, Greece ranked 4th in Europe for having 95% or more of "excellent" quality bathing waters. This means that Greece's bathing waters were free of pollutants that can be harmful to a person's health and the environment.

Based on information from 2017, 95.9% of the 1,598 sites that were assessed in Greece reached "excellent" quality. Luxembourg ranked first, Malta second, Cyprus third, and Austria fifth.

Nearly all bathing water sites (over 21,000) monitored in Europe met the minimum quality requirements under EU rules according to the report.

To read this article in full, please visit: Greek Travel Pages
Monday, 05 November 2018 07:00

Dolmades-Stuffed Vine Leaves

Dolmades, or stuffed vine leaves, is one of the most famous traditional Greek dishes; it is light, meat-free, and really tasty! Dolmades make an excellent starter for a family dinner, but they are so delicious they can also be served alone as a main dish.
 
Traditionally, dolmades are prepared with rice, herbs, and onions but some regional variations  call for toasted pine nuts, red currants, and raisins. Stuffing the vine leaves my look a bit tricky at first, but after your first few rolls you'll realize how easy it really is!

Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 2 cups sweet white onions, chopped very fine
  • 4 cups long-grain riced, uncooked
  • 6 cups fresh herbs – measured before chopping, chopped fine ( I use equal parts dill/mint/parsley)
  • 3 tsp salt
  • 2 tsp fresh ground black pepper
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • Grape leaves – 1 large 16 ounce jar (approx 60-80 leaves,rinsed well) or hand picked and boiled
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1/3 c olive oil
  • Juice from one lemon

To view the full recipe, please visit: The Greek Vegan
Monday, 07 October 2019 01:00

Ouzo: A Beginner's Guide

Care for an ouzaki? Like many other Greek words, ouzo is often referred in the diminutive, which makes it even more charming and appealing. There is nothing severe or pretentious about an ouzaki; it can be an excuse for a break in the middle of a busy day or a staple feature of a Greek summer holiday. No matter what you call it, sharing a carafe or miniature bottle of ouzo is a quintessential Greek experience. While there are no rules about doing it properly, there are certainly ways of getting the most out of it.
 
Ouzo can is made from grape or grain-based alcohol, which is distilled with anise, fennel, and other herbs, according to the 'secret' formula of each producer. Its alcoholic content ranges from 38% to 48% volume. It is the presence of anethole in the anise that turns the transparent drink to a milky white color when mixed with water or ice cubes.

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.

The best place to enjoy a drink (or two) of ouzo is at a seaside locale during the summer. However, the custom is not limited to the summer months, a quaint location or a time of day. Ouzo time may continue well into the afternoon or past the dinner hour– which in Greece is a very loose concept anyway.
 
The most critical factor in the ouzo drinking protocol is the company or parea in Greek. Greeks rarely drink alone and seldom without at least a nibble to eat. Without ordering it, you will usually be served a dish of a simple meze–olives, pickles, salami, cheese–along with your carafe of ouzo. Before you take a bite, clink glasses with your friends and say stin iyeiá mas, which means to our health.
 
Serious drinkers will order more meze dishes; those are likely to be salty, spicy or sour, to offset the slight sweetness and intensity of the ouzo! If all you want is an aperitif with a snack to precede a full lunch or dinner, these titbits will suffice. Making a meal of mezedes is another very Greek habit. Fish and seafood, fried or salted, rank highestbut garlicky vegetables, spicy meats, minty meatballs, and sausages also complement ouzo very well!

To read this article in full, please: thisisathens.org

 

Monday, 10 February 2020 07:00

The Power Of Gratitude And Love

A short story about the power of gratitude and love.

Let me tell you a story about a client of mine, let's call him Mr. Smith. Successful in his profession, he's a charismatic man with a big heart, a born leader with very concrete views. Mr. Smith has a beautiful family and two boys, a doctoral student, and a first-grader.

His eldest son has always succeeded in everything he's done and has received praise and admiration from everyone. He is also a good kid and has a nice, steady relationship – the ideal child for a parent. The youngest boy is a sweet, affectionate and sociable child who does not show the same abilities in school as his older brother. It goes without saying that Mr. Smith loves both his children very much. Yet because he's often so authoritarian, he's found himself angrily screaming and threatening his little son. You see, he thought he was just immature, lazy and ill-tempered. 
On top of that Mr. Smith would blame his wife as mums are always to blame!

Recently, however, he found out that his youngest son's academic difficulty is caused by a particular brain condition. Not something irreversible or serious but definitely something he's never expected. "Is it possible that my child may have special needs?" he kept on asking himself. What a big shock! He just couldn't digest it. It took him a while to realize what he wasn't seeing.

And then his attitude towards his little boy completely changed. He no longer shouted at him when he would not grasp mathematics, nor did he threaten him when he would not spell correctly. On the contrary, he would sit next to him, speak beautifully, and find alternative ways to help him. Now he started devoting quality time to his son. Now he would show his love for his little boy every day with a big hug. Because now Mr. Smith realized he loved his son without expectations. He was grateful simply because he existed in his life!

Don't wait for something special to happen to show people that you love them. Every moment counts! ❤️❤️
 

ypografi-nadia-georgiou-eng.jpg

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!

 
Tuesday, 09 February 2021 19:20

Athens Covered In Snow!

The storm titled 'Medea' covered Athens with an unusual amount of snow on Tuesday. Temperatures dipped below freezing, and the Greek capital's historic monuments looked incredibly beautiful all covered in white.

Please click HERE to view this issue of our newsletter!
Remember to stay connected with us through our weekly newsletterFacebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.
The award-winning sports tourism event Navarino Challenge celebrates its 10th year by uniting people of all ages and abilities through sports. Amateur and professional athletes from Greece and abroad will visit Costa Navarino and Pylos, Messinia, on October 21-23, 2022.
 
Follow the footsteps of Telemachus
Participants in Navarino Challenge, have the opportunity to run in one of the top Half Marathons 21.1km in Greece, together with the Greek-American ultramarathon runner Konstantinos Dean Karnazes, and to cross the beautiful beach of Voidokilia while tracing history beneath their feet in King Nestor’s land. They will follow the trail mapped out in the Homeric era by Telemachus, Ulysses’ son, trying to find his missing father. Moreover, they can choose between the 10km route or the fun 5km route, which can even be completed with dynamic walking.  On the same day, the 1km children’s route will be held in two groups, for children 10-14 years old and kids up to 9 years of age.   
Runners can act promptly and take advantage of the early bird offers, which are valid until July 31, featuring discounts higher than 50% on registrations. The children’s race is held with free participation. The event, always having the participants as a top priority, offers a refund on their registration costs until September 1.

Entries for Navarino Challenge are underway and interested parties can participate by completing the available form through the following link.
 
Enjoy here the video with Navarino Challenge 2022’s outdoor activities.
 
Sea kayaking at Pylos Bay
Starting from the Poseidonia Restaurant known for its traditional Greek cuisine and local delicacies in the port of Pylos, on Saturday, October 22, a sea kayak tour around the island of Sphacteria will take place, with the support of Explore Messinia. Participants will paddle towards Navarino Bay exploring the coastline of Sphacteria. For entries: welcome(at)exploremessinia.com 
 
Take part in the Beach Volleyball Tournament with a view of the Ionian Sea
Overlooking the sand dunes and crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea, The Dunes Beach at Navarino Dunes, Costa Navarino, will host the Navarino Challenge King of the Court Beach Volleyball Tournament. The Olympic sport of beach volleyball returns with the former international Greek volleyball player and record holder of participations with the Greek National Team, Michalis Triantafyllidis, as its ambassador. On Saturday, October 22, the tournament will include separate categories for men and women, whereas on Sunday, October 23, the tournament will be mixed. All beach volleyball activities are carried out with the support of Triantafyllidis Beach Arena. For registrations and more information: info(at)beacharena.gr 
 
Tennis at the Mouratoglou Tennis Center Costa Navarino
Participants in Navarino Challenge will have the opportunity to attend tennis clinics for children 6-9 years old and 10-13 years old as well as to participate in the Round Robbin tennis tournaments for men and women, which will be held with the support of Mouratoglou Tennis Center Costa Navarino under the guidance of elite coaches. Costa Navarino is the first European location for a Mouratoglou Tennis Center, while the brand-new state-of-the-art facilities feature a total of 16 tennis courts at Navarino Dunes with breathtaking views of the Ionian Sea. For registrations and more information: tennis(at)costanavarino.com
 
Track and field, pilates, cycling, golf for everyone!
The schedule of Navarino Challenge offers you the opportunity to come closer to sports and their benefits, alongside top instructors. More specifically, you can take part in activities such as beachathlon for parents & children 6 to 13 years old with the Olympian and European champion Periklis Iakovakis, pilates lessons with the team of physical education instructor, Mandy Persaki, bike ride to Voidokilia with the support of Navarino Outdoors and golf lessons for 2 days, with the support of Navarino Golf Academy.

Book your room now 
Enjoy a weekend full of outdoor wellness activities for people of all ages. Book now the event’s accommodation package which is full of sports activities and includes half board. Live the unique sports and cultural experience that is offered to you. For more information on accommodation packages at The Westin Resort Costa Navarino you may send your email to booking(at)navarinochallenge.com or call Vita N Travel at +30 210 3249070.

Check the accommodation packages here.

Samsung Electronics Hellas supports the event for a 6th consecutive year as its Official Technology Partner. Costa Navarino and The Westin Resort Costa Navarino are the Official Hospitality Sponsors.The event is assisted by Vita N Travel and Kayak. 

Navarino Challenge will take place under the auspices of the Ministry of Tourism, whose mission is the formulation of the tourism policy and the executive planning of the tourist development of Greece.The event is organized by ActiveMedia Group which is also responsible for the event’s Sports Production.

Hashtags: #navarinochallenge #costanavarino #sportsunitespeople #10yearsNavarinoChallenge #eatwell #runwell #livewell

Photo Credit: Elias Lefas
Winter may not be a favorite of the four seasons, but it is nonetheless part of nature's important cycle. There is something nice about the season; be it cozy rediscovery, the warmth of a fireplace, the peaceful sounds of rain and snow, and the freshness of crisp air - it is a season for all the senses!
 
One of the greatest pleasures is definitely cuddling up with a good book, and sipping a cup of warm coffee or tea. And although there is no place like home, if you feel like heading out without having to sacrifice your comfort and coziness, these bookshop cafes are exactly perfect.
   
Enastron 

enastron
@enastroncafe
 
A favorite among students, especially during the exam period, Enastron is the perfect place to relax, grab a book, and have a little me time. On the menu, you will find coffee, hot beverages, drinks, and cocktails, as well as light meals, and numerous books await you on the bookstore’s shelves. The venue also hosts a number of events, including book launches, musical acts, educational seminars, and many more. 
 
Address: Solonos 101, Athina
Telephone: 21 0382 8139
    
Ianos Cafe

Ianos Cafe
www.ianos.gr

The lobby space overhead Ianos bookstore on Stadiou Street has been transformed into a delicate cafe where students, scholars, and bookworms take shelter year-round. There you may jumpstart your literary journey with a drawn-out cup of coffee, while examining the space oozing with artistic interest!  

Address: Stadiou 24, Athina
Telephone: 21 0321 7917
 
Free Thinking Zone

free thinking zone
@ephellas 
 
Where else will you find a cozy bookstore, gallery, and coffee shop all in one? Free Thinking Zone is all of the above and so much more. It is a place full of warmth and positive vibes where you can meet new people and share your ideas or spend some quiet time browsing the permanent and periodic book collections. A broad spectrum of events takes place at the bookstore, including book presentations and other cultural events.  

Address: Skoufa 64, Athina
Telephone: 21 0361 7461

 

 

Thursday, 05 February 2015 12:57

My Week in Athens… May 3

Summer is here, judging by the incredible weekend weather… Who wants to stay home? Friday night arrived and a few of us headed to the centre for a couple drinks. With no destination in mind, we headed towards the Gazi district – plenty of choice for a couple drinks, and a few for some good food too.

Sure, Gazi is young, trendy, even predictable (is that so bad?!) – but it was also buzzing with amazing energy… people everywhere, out to enjoy the beautiful night. We ended up at The Hive – a well-known multi-level bar & event space on the main square, with a small bar inside and a great rooftop terrace. Upstairs, the terrace was jammed full of people, enjoying in the beautiful view and the charged dance music. Later in the evening we headed downstairs where we were greeted by a live band – a great band! 2 female singers – mix of Greek and English pop music. Fantastic. Later on, after another visit to the rooftop, we wandered around the square – still busy with people - decided against a late-night souvlaki – and headed home…

Athens comes alive at night. It's a transformed city after dark - bright lights, music, sound, people, action - the city truly buzzes in a way that few others do. At least after the sun sets, we are spoiled for choice on where to meet friends and enjoy a spring evening...

I loved the buzz of the night. Bring on summer!

Athens nightlife. Not to be missed. Now appearing everywhere ;)

See you next week.

Jack

In this weekly space, keep up with ‘Jack’ as he navigates daily life in Athens… Anecdotes, stories, hits & misses, the good, the bad and, well, the rest…

Monday, 16 February 2015 10:04

Kapetan Fishaei: A New Way To Eat Fish

You can find sandwiches with fish and seafood in northern Europe and by the Bosphorus. Now you can also get them on Benaki Street.

There in the center of Athens - which has a tradition in ouzeri - on a small green deck with wooden benches reminiscent somewhat of English pubs or high tables with wicker stools in the industrial interior, under the gaze of the captain, tentzeredia with steamed mussels, fresh grilled fish (sea bream and sea bass fish or salmon) or fried (anchovies, picarel, atherina) and seafood, take eating fish every day to a whole other dimension. You can drink ouzo and tsipouro and beer, several wine labels at prices that do not exceed € 10. Kapetan Fishaei is a very clever idea.

Address: Em. Benaki 27-29
Tel: 2103300035
Prices: € 13 - 16
Also open for lunch.

By Angela Stamatiadou - translated by Eleni Georgiou

athinorama.gr

 

Do you have a recommendation or recipe to share? Send it to us at ideas@xpatathens.com!

Wednesday, 18 February 2015 14:57

Lesvos

Beautiful Lesvos with many streams, rich flora and fauna, famous olives groves, the mild Mediterranean climate, charming traditional villages and remarkable examples of industrial architecture (olive presses, soap factories, tanneries) dating from the Island's industrial development in the 19th century, impress all visitors. Lesvos, is also known for the unique fossilized forest covering the Sigri-Eressos-Antissa area.

 

It has been designated as a preserved natural monument since 1985. It is a forest ecosystem that has been fossilized 15-20 million years ago due to the intense volcanic activity in the area which included coniferous forests and mainly huge sequoias and primitive pine trees.

It is one of the rarest natural monuments in the world (the only similar ecosystems today are the coniferous forests in north America), visited by thousands of tourists. The removal and transfer of fossilized material is prohibited by law. The forest includes six visitor parks in the area.

It is the third biggest island in Greece, after Crete and Evia, with an area of 1,630sq. km and a coastline of 370km. It has 90,000 residents. A few miles away from the SW coast of Turkey, it is located almost at the entrance of Adramytios Gulf, N of Chios. It belongs to the Lesvos Prefecture that includes Limnos and Ag. Efstratios. It is famous for two products, Ouzo and Olive Oil.

To read more, please see visitgreece.gr

Page 41 of 436