Two 20-year-old cyclists began a trip from Athens to Kassel during the opening of Documents 14 to convey a message of art and solidarity. They will ride their bikes for 100 days, traveling a distance of about 4,000km across 14 European countries to the German city of Kassel. They will arrive just in time for the second part of the Documenta 14 show.

From Greece, the cyclists will travel through Albania, FYROM, Kosovo, Montenegro, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Serbia, Croatia, Slovenia, Hungary, Slovakia, Austria and the Czech Republic with their message of unity and tolerance.

To read this article in full, please visit: Greek Travel Pages

During this season, the weather in Greece is ideal for holidays. The countryside takes on an autumnal glow, the sea stays warm enough for swimming, the resorts become a bit quieter, and the earth delivers its bounty of olives and grapes, oil and wine.

Autumn will give you countless opportunities to try something really different. Towards the end of September and early October - for a more rustic and intoxicating experience, try to find out who’s making raki out of the skins and stalks in Crete.

Autumn holidays in Greece mean quiet cosmopolitan islands, exploring the Argosaronic islands close to Athens and visiting the lush, green Sporades for a weekend sojourn. Hop over to Evia’s long beaches and thick forests or go up to Pelion, where you can combine beach and mountain pleasures. Autumn is perfect too for sailing in the Aegean or Ionian seas, since August’s north winds have calmed down.

To read this article in full, please visit: Discover Greece

Over 220 events have been planned by the Athens municipality this year for Christmas and the New Year, including the tree lighting at Syntagma Square on December 12, 2017 at 19:00. Over 34 days, a plethora of events will take place including outdoor and indoor activities for adults and children, theatre and musical performances, art exhibitions, and Christmas bazaars.

From December 12-30, a number of concerts and live music can be heard under the city’s Christmas tree at Syntagma Square.

Wander over to Omonia Square to see a decorated Greek Christmas boat. Or find the special key words scattered about Syntagma square, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Klafthmonos Square, Monastiraki, the Athens Propylaea, and Thissio.

Mark your calendars on December 21, the longest night of the year, when Lena Platonos will perform at the Temple of Olympian Zeus.

Be sure to check out the Library-Academy-University complex on Panepistimiou Street for literature and science-related events.

For the kids, visit Klafthmonos Square from December 19-31.

Between December 14-24, the Kypseli municipal market is organizing festive Christmas activities, especially for the food lovers.

Various museums, libraries, and cultural venues, as well as the Athens municipality's pottery centre, will hold theatrical performances, art events and workshops from December 19-31.

On New Year’s Eve, the municipality will host performances by percussion ensembles Batuca and Batala. You can watch a concert by the City of Athens Philharmonic Orchestra, as well as performances by Evanthia Reboutsika, Mariza Rizou and Panos Mouzourakis, and other artists.

And finally, the Mayor of Athens will help us ring in the New Year at the Apostolos Pavlos pedestrian walkway in Thisio.

 

Every year on the anniversary of moving to Greece, an American expat and a good friend of XpatAthens puts together a list of reasons why she loves living in Greece. Seven years ago, she left her job and life in San Francisco and decided to make the move to Athens, Greece. She has never looked back! Here are her top 10 reasons of what she loves about living in Greece:

1. The buskers along Dionysiou Aeropagetou. The pedestrian zone near where I live is filled with street performers so it becomes like a progressive concert most days as I walk my dog Andromeda. I never know who will be there or what to expect-we have bubble blowers, musicians, an African bongo group, silk performers and dance troupes, just to name a few. There is even a woman who will put your hair in a stylish braid or updo for 5 euros. It’s on my list to try in 2019…
   
   
   
2. Beach Volleyball. Last spring I decided to learn beach volleyball. I wanted to be trained by professionals so I asked my friend Sakis Psarras where to go, and he directed me to the Attica Beachvolley Club. I love my lessons–we practice outside in the fresh air, barefoot in the sand. My teammates and coaches are so encouraging (bravo Lynn!) that in the beginning I got confused and thought I had real talent. But then one day, when I hit the ball right and the entire team clapped, I realized, no. It’s the opposite. I’m really bad, and they are trying to keep my spirits up…It’s ok, I wasn’t planning to go pro. But one day, I would like to play in a beginners tournament.
   
   
3. The Athens Riviera. This year I discovered the Athens Riviera and the beaches south of Athens in Glyfada, Voula and Vouliagmeni. I didn’t realize seaside near Athens could be so good. Lots of them are blue flag beaches and on par with many islands…The water is clean, the beach clubs are fun, and best of all, we have SUP Yoga at Astir Beach with one of the best sunsets in town.
   
   
4. Things get cheaper. The longer I live in Greece, the cheaper things seem to become. All around Athens, I now get discounts–discounts because I’m a yoga teacher, discounts because I live in the neighborhood, discounts because I’ve been coming a long time, discounts for reasons I can’t even identify, but I hear it often -μια άλλη τιμή για σένα! (another price for you!). This was not the case in San Francisco. It must be a Greek thing…
   
   
5. Athens is becoming a health food mecca! When I moved to Athens in 2012, if I asked for “quinoa” and “nutritional yeast” I got blank stares. Now I get quinoa in the regular supermarket, and I choose between two brands of nutritional yeast in my favorite bio store. I can eat at Vegan Beat, Vegan Nation, Avocado and Nice and Easy—all an easy walk from my apartment. This was also the year I discovered Yi, the super healthy vegetarian raw food restaurant in Glyfada. If I could create a restaurant, it would be Yi. Everything is sugar-free and gluten-free, and the restaurant allows dogs. For me, it is a small paradise.
   
   
6. My new doctor. My new doctor, Nikoleta Koini, is one of the few US-trained functional medicine doctors in Greece. Functional medicine is science based, 100% individualized, holistic preventative medicine. It matches my medical philosophy almost perfectly so I was thrilled to find a highly trained functional medicine doctor in Athens. Now I have supplements that are precisely matched to my situation. It might take some research, but you can get great medical care in Greece.
   
   
7. Filotimo is part of the culture. The word “filotimo” exists only in Greek, and it means doing the right thing without expecting anything in return. I’ve seen it acted out time and time again.
   
   There was the time my taxi driver Dimos came to pick me and my friends up in his personal car on a taxi strike day. He took us to the port but refused to accept money (ever) for the journey, because he wanted to respect the rules of the strike but also wanted us to have our holiday.
   
   There was the time when I got sick in a mountain village on a weekend trip. All pharmacies were closed, but the souvenir store owner gave me his full package of Panadol. He was worried about me and wasn’t sure when I’d be able to get to an open pharmacy. He didn’t accept my offer to pay him, and in fact, he seemed confused when I tried to give him money.
   
   There was the time I was out with my friends late at night on a Greek island holiday. The taxis had all stopped, and we were eight kilometers from our hotel stranded without a clear way to get home. One of my friends approached a group of men sitting at a café and within minutes, one of them was driving us to our hotel. This time I knew better than to offer money, and my friends confirmed, yes, he would have been horrified if we tried to pay him.
   
   I could go on and on, but you’ll see for yourself. Even people here for short visits usually experience filotimo in one way or another.
   
   
8. Greece ignites your creativity. I think it was Lord Byron who said “If I am a poet, the air in Greece has made me one.” I would say the same—if I am a writer, living in Greece has made me one. I’ve written two books since coming to Greece and before living here, I was an accountant who never planned to write anything. It is hard to describe, but there is something in the air or energy that sparks your creativity. And it feels so nice.
   
   
9. The olive culture. It seems everyone in Greece is within three degrees of separation from an olive grove—their parents have one, their uncle has one, their best friend has one. The thread of olives runs all throughout the country as part of the social fabric. I’ve even been scolded for buying olive oil—it is usually gifted around. I should also mention the variety. I used to think that Greek olives meant Kalamata olives. Not so. There are dozens of varieties, in all shapes, sizes and colors. I have included a picture for you here. Olive oil is even used in baptisms—which leads me to my final favorite thing.
   
   
10. I am a Greek Nona! I have saved the best for last. This year I became the Nona (godmother) to my friend Maria’s daughter. The godmother’s role is to be a spiritual advisor, and apparently she bestows some of her traits to her godchild. I’m not sure about how that works, but if I get to choose any traits, I’ll give Alexia the gifts of resilience and joy. If she has those two, I think she’ll have a good chance for a happy life. And as part of this process, I’m getting baptized Greek Orthodox myself this Easter. The transformation is almost complete. Θα είμαι Ελληνίδα.
    
    

To read more of Lynn's 'Top 10 Reasons,' please visit: Lynn Roulo

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Lynn is an American Kundalini yoga and Enneagram instructor teaching a unique combination of the two systems, combining the physical benefits of Kundalini yoga with the psychological growth tools of the Enneagram.

Most of her adult life has been as a Certified Public Accountant (US CPA) working in the Silicon Valley/San Francisco technology start up and venture capital industries. In 2012, she decided to move to Athens, Greece for purely intuitive reasons.  She's not Greek by heritage, she did not have a job here, she didn’t speak any Greek (at the time), and there wasn't a Greek man in the picture either! She simply had a really clear feeling that she should go to Greece. And so she did.

 

“I remember getting on the plane to leave San Francisco. My dog and two cats were in cargo below and I had packed a suitcase full of clothes. Almost everything else I had sold or given away. There wasn’t anyone to meet me in Athens because I didn’t know anyone. But it was one of the calmest moments of my life. I was totally sure I was making the right choice.  And I haven’t regretted it at all. I love Greece.”

To learn more about Lynn and all the great things she does in Athens please visit her webiste: Lynn Roulo

Who we are: 

PAMEMMAZI is a newly established Non-Profit Organization that aims to improve the psychosocial health of cancer patients in Greece and to promote the holistic approach of cancer.

What we do: 

• We provide meaningful, creative and educational activities to cancer patients and their caretakers in welcoming and cozy spaces in Greek hospitals
• We organize forums and events to promote psychosocial and psychosomatic care of cancer patients in Greece - 2017 Forum: Psychosomatic care in Cancer: Empathy, Understanding and Communication
• We encourage patients and survivors to share their story on Scars & Scarves blog in order to destigmatize cancer
• We provide tips on side effects’ management, nutrition, physical activity and personal care
• We participate in the annual Greece Race for the Cure Marathon organized by Alma Zois, under the Untouchables team that Emma created in 2014

• Empower patients, their families and their caretakers through creative and educational offered in hospitals
• Build a community that will foster resilience, quality of life and normality using creativity and learning as tools
• Eliminate stigma toward and encourage community support for patients
• Raise funds for research purposes to help cure cancer

3rd PAMEMMAZI Forum At The American College Of Greece

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XpatAthens Is Proud To Be A Non-Profit Sponsor To PAMEMMAZI

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Who says the magic of winter is reserved for the Alps? Greece may be a summer hotspot, but don't be fooled—the magic of a Greek winter is a well-kept secret waiting to be discovered. Beyond the sun-kissed beaches, crystal-clear waters, and summer vibes, the holiday season transforms Greece into a festive, often snowy, wonderland. Here are 4 of the best destinations in Greece to visit this Christmas!



Agios Athanasios 


@dimitra_tza

Are you dreaming of a white Christmas? If so, Agios Athanasios in northern Greece is the perfect snowy destination to spend your holidays. Nestled on the western slopes of imposing Mount Vorras, Agios Athanasios is a village of astounding beauty and pure authenticity, famous for its traditional stone-built buildings. Of course, while there, a visit to Kaimaktsalan Ski Center is a must!

 

Pelion's heavenly charm enchants visitors all year round, especially during Christmas, when it transforms into a magical winter wonderland. Take a winter stroll through beautiful, snow-capped villages and dense woodlands. Finally, don't forget to pay a visit to the ski resort for some fun and games in the snow.

 

Fir trees, snow-covered meadows, the exquisite scent of fireplaces, and sleigh rides at the ski centre... Who could have thought that you don't have to travel to the Swiss Alps to find all that; they are right here in Greece, in Trikala! If you find yourself there, don't forget to pay a visit to the Mill of The Elves, a unique Christmas park in Trikala and definitely a major highlight of the wider area!

 

Elatochori 


@olgadeligiannidou

Set in the deep woods, the village of Elatochori promises to make you forget about the outside world completely and appreciate the beauty of nature. There are various unique boutiques in the village, and you should sample some of the local delights like traditional marmalade and chocolate drinks. Not to mention the nearby ski center, where you can enjoy various winter activities if you are lucky enough to visit when the area is blanketed in snow. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Navarino Challenge returns for its 11th year, on October 13-15, 2023, at Costa Navarino and Pylos.

This year, more than 40 sports activities will take place within three days at the hotels W Costa Navarino and The Westin Resort Costa Navarino. 

 

For the first time in the event’s history, the Navarino Challenge Marathon by That Gorilla Brand will be held, with participants having the opportunity to cross the beach of Voidokilia. At the same time, the participants in the Navarino Challenge Half Marathon by That Gorilla Brand will also have the chance to cross the most famous beach of Messinia and one of the most beautiful in the world. With its unique shape outlining the Greek letter omega (Ω), Voidokilia is the ideal destination for anyone who wants to test his strength in running. The peculiar name of this enchanting location, Voidokoilia (lit. ‘ox-belly’), can be traced back to an ancient myth about Hermes, who stole the oxen of his brother, Apollo, and hid them in a cave above the beach. Feeling remorse, Hermes gave Apollo a lyre made from a sea turtle’s shell, which lays its eggs in the bay to this day. The event offers participants the opportunity to run the 42km Marathon and the top Greek Half-Marathon of 21.1km, together with the Greek-American ambassador of Greek Tourism, the ultramarathoner Constantine “Dean” Karnazes. These are the only trail running races that combine sand, soil, and asphalt.

 

At the same time, participants can run the magnificent 10km route powered by Miele, next to the sea, or the 5km route, among centuries-old olive trees, which can even be completed with dynamic walking. On the same day, a 1km route will be held for young people 9 to 14 years old and a 1km route for children up to 8 years old.  

 

Runners can now participate in the 42km, 21.1km, 10km, 5km, and 1km routes. The children’s race is held with free participation. Register through the special form available at the following link.

 

All the proceeds from the Marathon race, as well as 50% of the proceeds from all the other running routes, will be donated through the initiative “That Gorilla Brand's Adventures For A Cause”, by the Grand Sponsor That Gorilla Brand, the world's biggest lifestyle brand dedicated to the protection of mountain gorillas, to improve sanitation facilities in Uganda. Out of a total of 16 schools located around the edges of the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (BNIP) and close to habitats of mountain gorillas, only three meet the hygiene standards for children and teachers. The remaining 13 schools require significant financial and humanitarian aid.

 

Watch the video with some highlights from the Navarino Challenge running activities here: https://youtu.be/enAd28vVfA8 

 

Messinia will host for one more year the top sports tourism celebration. After all, Messinians are renowned for their hospitality (‘filoxenia’ in Greek). Homer tells the story thus: searching for his father Odysseus, Telemachus, accompanied by the Goddess Athina in mortal guise, came ashore at night in Voidokilia, which was also the port of ancient Pylos, to ask King Nestor of his father Ulysses' whereabouts. The King was holding a feast with his sons on the sand and gave the travelers the best cuts of meat and his best wine. Only after they were fed and rested did he ask them who they were and what was the purpose of their visit. This is the first written account of hospitality in the Western world, and it’s in Homer’s Odyssey.

Enjoy a weekend full of outdoor wellness activities for people of all ages. Book now the event’s accommodation package with breakfast and live this year’s unique sports and cultural experience. For more information on accommodation packages at the full of energy W Costa Navarino and the luxurious The Westin Resort Costa Navarino, you may send your email to the booking(at)navarinochallenge.com or call Vita N Travel at +30 210 3249070. Check the accommodation packages here. 

The event’s schedule includes more than 40 sports activities that will take place at the hotels W Costa Navarino and The Westin Resort Costa Navarino.

This year, in addition to running, you will find activities such as: a basketball clinic and 4on4 basketball tournament, beach volleyball tournaments, tennis (tournaments, clinic, and demonstration), beachathlon, pilates, climbing, bike tour at Voidokolia, golf, boxing, CrossFit, yoga, high-intensity training, spinning, water sports and others that will be announced in the coming days.

 

That Gorilla Brand is the event’s Grand Sponsor. 

Miele is the Official Sponsor.

Europa is the Official Supporter. 

Luanvi is the Official Sports Supplier.

SIXT, member of the MOTODYNAMICS Group, is the Premium Mobility Partner.

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

Poseidonia Restaurant, Karalis Beach Hotel, Pilia Express, Phee, Karalis City Hotel & Spa, and Zoe Seaside Resort are the event’s Partners. 

Trace ‘n Chase is the Sports Memorabilia Partner.

Kois Optics are the event’s Official Optics Partner. 

Messinian Spa is the Official Beauty Partner.

SKAI is the Premium TV Partner.

Deree - The American College of Greece is the Educational Partner.

FitnessArt, F45 Barrio Salamanca, Moraitis Watersports, Mouratoglou Tennis Center – Costa Navarino, Navarino Golf Academy, Navarino Outdoors, Pilates by Mandy, Red Swim Academy, Swim O’ Clock, Triantafyllidis Beach Arena are the event’s Athletic Partners.

Navarino Challenge is Assisted by Vita N Travel and Pylos Association of Enterprises for Tourism Development.

 

The event has joined the Greek actions of the #BeactiveHellas 2023 program of the European Commission and is held under the auspices of the General Secretariat of Sports. 

The event is organized by ActiveMedia Group, which is also responsible for the event’s Sports Production.

 

More information on this year’s activities will be announced in the coming weeks.

 

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

 

Summer is the ideal time to relax, rejuvenate, and find inspiration for your entrepreneurial dreams. Greece, with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, offers the perfect setting to unlock your inner entrepreneur and fuel your creative ambitions. Here’s how you can make the most of your holiday in Greece to inspire and drive your entrepreneurial journey.

1. Immersing in Natural Beauty

The Inspiration of the Greek Islands

The Greek islands, provide a serene backdrop that can help clear your mind and spark new ideas. Spending time in nature, whether it's on a tranquil beach or a scenic hike, allows you to step back from your daily routine, providing the mental space needed for creative thinking and problem-solving.

The Tranquility of the Mainland

For those who prefer the mountains or quieter mainland regions, places like the Peloponnese and the Pindus Mountains offer peaceful environments that are perfect for reflection. The quiet solitude of these areas can help you connect with your inner thoughts and generate innovative business ideas.

2. Drawing Lessons from History

Ancient Sites as Catalysts for Modern Ideas

Greece’s rich history and ancient sites are treasure troves of wisdom and inspiration. Visiting landmarks such as the Acropolis, the Temple of Apollo at Delphi, or the ancient theater of Epidaurus can provide insights into resilience, leadership, and strategic thinking. Reflecting on the achievements of ancient civilizations can inspire modern entrepreneurial strategies and visions.

Reading Ancient Philosophers

Take a book by an ancient Greek philosopher to the beach or a quiet terrace. As you read the words of Plato, or Aristotle, gaze at the ocean and its infinite fluidity, reflecting on how their timeless wisdom can be applied to your modern-day challenges. The depth of their thoughts can unlock new perspectives and inspire profound insights into your business and personal life.

Museums and Cultural Heritage

Exploring museums like the National Archaeological Museum in Athens or the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion in Crete offers a deep dive into Greece’s cultural heritage. The stories and artifacts from different eras highlight human ingenuity and adaptability, qualities that are essential for any entrepreneur. Let the creativity and innovation of the past fuel your own entrepreneurial spirit.

3. Networking with Local Entrepreneurs

Engaging with Greece's Startup Scene

Greece is home to a vibrant community of startups and innovative businesses. Attending local business events, workshops, and networking sessions can provide valuable opportunities to connect with like-minded entrepreneurs. Sharing experiences and learning from local success stories can offer new perspectives and practical advice for your own ventures.

Learning from Local Business Practices

Greek businesses, whether they are traditional family-owned enterprises or modern tech startups, offer unique insights into customer service, product development, and market adaptation. Observing and engaging with these businesses can provide lessons that you can apply to your entrepreneurial journey.

4. Cultivating Creativity

Artistic & Culinary Exploration

Greece’s rich artistic heritage and culinary traditions are perfect for sparking creativity. Visit local art galleries, attend cultural festivals, or take part in a cooking class to immerse yourself in Greek culture. The creativity you encounter in these activities can inspire innovative thinking and new business ideas.

Embracing the Greek Way of Life

Greek culture emphasizes a balanced lifestyle, valuing both hard work and leisure. Embrace this approach by taking time to relax, socialize, and enjoy life. This balance can lead to better mental clarity, increased creativity, and improved problem-solving abilities.

5. Rejuvenating Your Mind & Body

Wellness Retreats & Relaxation

Greece offers numerous wellness retreats, spas, and yoga centers where you can rejuvenate both your mind and body. Taking time to relax and recharge is essential for maintaining the energy and motivation needed for entrepreneurial success. Wellness activities can help clear mental blockages and provide a fresh perspective on your goals.

Outdoor Adventures

Engaging in outdoor activities, such as hiking, sailing, or diving, not only boosts your physical health but also stimulates your mind. The sense of adventure and exploration can translate into a more dynamic and innovative approach to your business ventures.