XpatAthens

XpatAthens

Monday, 12 August 2019 11:50

‘The Trip’ Comes To Greece

British frenemies Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon have embarked on their 4th food and travel adventure, and this time around they will argue over moussaka and souvlaki. "The Trip," a semi-improvised travelogue series, has narrated Coogan and Brydon's journeys around Northern England, Italy, and Spain, with the comedians starring as fictional versions of themselves. 

Even though details regarding the episode have not been revealed, the duo's travel to Greece will focus on their clashing personalities.

According to the Hellenic Film Commission (HFC), "The Trip to Greece" will showcase the comedians visiting many of Greece's historical sites and monuments, including the Temple of Apollo in Delphi, the Ancient Agora of Athens, the Ancient Theater of Epidaurus and more.

Sky Atlantic's 'The Trip to Greece'  will be broadcast on Sky One and Now TV in 2020.

To read this article in full, please visit: eKathimerini
The Guardian recently published a list of the 10 best city neighborhoods in Europe. The 10 areas were selected for attributes such as parks, under the radar museums, or great-value restaurants.
 
Among the best neighborhoods are Wilhelminapark in Utrecht, Vallecas in Madrid, Moabit in Berlin, and Nea Smyrni in Athens.

About Nea Smyrni

Nea Smyrni is a family-friendly neighborhood halfway between central Athens and the Athenian riviera. Nea Smyrni has a fascinating history as the area where refugees from Smyrna-now Izmir-settled in the 1920s. In the heart of the neighborhood lies a car-free square with fountains, shops, restaurants, cafes, and bars for all tastes and budgets. For visitors, Nea Smyrni is a rare find since it's not on the typical tourist route.

To read this article in full, please visit: The Guardian
An alarm has sounded at the Police, but also at the "Child's Smile", after the abduction of 6-year-old Rainer Jason Pedersen on the night of Tuesday, May 24, from his house in Kifissia. Authorities have strong indications that this is parental abduction.

According to the description of the child as mentioned in his announcement, “Amber Alert”, Rainer Jason Pedersen has: Freckles on his face,  Long red hair, Brown eyes, Height 1.10, Weight 15 kg.

When he disappeared he was wearing a blue tracksuit, a white short-sleeved blouse, and gray socks.
Thursday, 26 October 2023 07:00

The Heroes Of The Ohi Day

October 28th is the day that commemorates the rejection by Greek dictator Ioannis Metaxas of the ultimatum made by Italian dictator Benito Mussolini on October 28, 1940. This day is known as Ohi Day by Greeks around the world.
 
Unlike the Greek War of Independence heroes that we are all familiar with, the heroes of the Greco-Italian War are lesser known. Of course, there are so many of them, and it is impossible to know them all. But let’s take a look at some Greeks who were called upon to make critical political or military decisions and made history. 
 
Ioannis Metaxas

Ioannis Metaxas 1937 cropped
 
Ioannis Metaxas was a Greek military officer and politician who served as the Prime Minister of Greece from 1936 until his death in 1941. At first, Metaxas’ intention was to keep Greece out of World War II, a plan that failed when the Italian ambassador, Emanuele Grazzi, visited his residence demanding, on behalf of Italy, occupation rights to strategic Greek sites. His reply, “Alors, c'est la guerre," meaning “Then it is war," brought a united country into the Western alliance. In a strange twist of events, Metaxas never lived to see the Fascist-Nazi invasion of Greece because he died in Athens on January 29, 1941.
  
Alexandros Papagos

Alexandros Papagos
 
With the declaration of the Greco-Italian war, Alexandros Papagos assumed the position of Commander-in-Chief and managed to organize an effective defense and successfully halt the Italian troops along the Greco-Albanian borders. He remained in command until April 23, 1941, when he resigned in order not to participate in the negotiations following the German advance. In 1943, he established a resistance organization, the Military Hierarchy. In July of the same year, he was arrested by the German occupation authorities and transported to Germany's concentration camps as a prisoner. He was liberated by the Fifth U.S. Army on May 5, 1945. 
  
Mordechai Frizis

Mordechai Frizis
 
When the Greco-Italian War was declared, Colonel Mordechai served as a detachment commander of the Delvinaki section of the Division. As the Italian army invaded Greece, crossing the Albanian frontier into Epirus, the task of defending the country’s border fell entirely to the VIII Division. Frizis and his men successfully pushed back the attacks, resulting in heavy losses for the Italians. On December 4th, he was ordered to move his unit towards the town of Përmet to cut off the Italian line of retreat, and the following day he was discovered dead from enemy fire. He was the first senior officer of the Greek Army to be killed in action on the battlefield in the Greco-Italian War.
 
Konstantinos Davakis

Konstantinos Davakis
 
Konstantinos Davakis was a Greek military officer who, as the commander of the Pindus detachment, successfully repelled the Italian Julia Alpine Division's attack in October 1940. On November 1, 1940, when the reinforcements expected by Davakis arrived, the Greek forces counterattacked and surrounded the Italians, who were forced to retreat. On the 6th day after the start of the operations, Davakis was wounded and forced to withdraw from the front line position. He was arrested by the Italian occupation authorities in December 1942, suspected of participation in the Greek Resistance. He was to be shipped along with other officers to POW camps in Italy, but the ship was torpedoed and sank off southern Albania in January 1943.
 
Charalambos Katsimitros 

Charalambos Katsimitros
 
As commander of the VIII division, Katsimitros successfully managed to hold back the Italian advance. He decided to organize forward defense and hold the Elaia (Kalpaki) position, despite opposite instructions from the General Staff and succeeded in defending it against repeated attacks until November 9. In this way, he managed to contain the Italian offensive in the Epirus sector and bought valuable time for the Greek reinforcements to arrive. After the German attack on Greece began, he retreated with the rest of the Army of Epirus, and the capitulation found him in Ioannina.
 
 
Starting a business in Greece can be a rewarding venture given its strategic location, vibrant culture, and membership in the European Union. However, it requires understanding the local regulations, market conditions, and cultural nuances.
Here’s a comprehensive guide on what you need to start a business in Greece.



1. Understanding the Business Environment

Economic Climate

Greece has experienced economic challenges in the past decade but is on a path to recovery with increasing opportunities for business growth, particularly in tourism, shipping, agriculture, and renewable energy sectors.

Market Research

Conduct thorough market research to understand local demand, competition, and consumer behavior. Identify market gaps and opportunities specific to your industry.

2. Legal Requirements

Choosing a Business Structure

Select the appropriate legal form for your business:
  • Sole Proprietorship (Ατομική Επιχείρηση): Simplest form, suitable for small businesses and freelancers.
  • Limited Liability Company (Εταιρεία Περιορισμένης Ευθύνης - ΕΠΕ): Popular choice offering limited liability protection.
  • Private Company (Ιδιωτική Κεφαλαιουχική Εταιρεία - ΙΚΕ): Flexible and requires low initial capital.
  • Societe Anonyme (Ανώνυμη Εταιρεία - AE): Suitable for larger businesses, requiring higher initial capital.
Business Registration

1. Company Name Approval: Obtain approval for your business name from the General Commercial Registry (GEMI).
2. Tax Identification Number (AFM): Apply for a AFM from the local tax office (DOY).
3. Register with GEMI: Register your business with GEMI, providing necessary documents such as the company’s articles of association.
4. Social Security Registration: Register with the Social Insurance Institute (IKA) for employee social security.

Licenses & Permits

Depending on your business activity, you may need specific licenses and permits. For example, food-related businesses require health permits, while construction businesses need building permits.

3. Financial Considerations

Initial Capital

Determine the initial capital required based on your business structure. For instance, an IKE requires a symbolic capital of €1, while an AE needs a minimum of €24,000.

Banking

Open a business bank account in Greece. This is essential for managing transactions and complying with financial regulations.

Funding Options

Explore various funding options:
 
  • Personal Savings: Self-fund your business if you have sufficient capital.
  • Bank Loans: Secure loans from Greek banks, provided you have a solid business plan.
  • EU Grants: Utilize EU funds and grants available for startups and SMEs in Greece.
  • Investors: Seek investment from private investors or venture capital firms.

Taxation

Understand the Greek tax system:

  • Corporate Tax: Currently set at 24% on profits.
  • VAT (Value Added Tax): Standard rate is 24%, with reduced rates for certain goods and services.
  • Social Security Contributions: Employers contribute a percentage of employee salaries to social security.

4. Setting Up Operations

Location

Choose a strategic location based on your business needs. Consider factors like foot traffic, accessibility, and proximity to suppliers and customers.

Office Space

Lease or purchase office space. Ensure it meets legal requirements for your type of business.

Hiring Employees

Follow these steps to hire employees:

  • Recruitment: Advertise job openings and conduct interviews.
  • Employment Contracts: Draft and sign employment contracts outlining terms and conditions.
  • Employee Registration: Register employees with IKA and other relevant authorities.
  • Compliance: Ensure compliance with Greek labor laws regarding wages, working hours, and employee rights.
Technology & Equipment

Invest in necessary technology and equipment. This includes computers, software, machinery, and other tools essential for your business operations.

5. Marketing & Networking

Branding

Develop a strong brand identity that resonates with Greek consumers. This includes a compelling logo, tagline, and brand message.

Online Presence

Create a professional website and engage on social media platforms popular in Greece, such as Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

Advertising

Invest in local advertising, both online and offline. Utilize Google Ads, social media ads, and traditional media like newspapers and radio.

Networking

Join local business associations and attend networking events. Building relationships with other business owners and industry professionals can open up new opportunities.

6. Continuous Compliance & Growth

Regular Audits

Conduct regular financial audits to ensure compliance with Greek regulations and maintain financial health.

Legal Updates

Stay informed about changes in Greek business laws and regulations to avoid any legal issues.

Expansion

Plan for future growth by exploring new markets, expanding your product or service offerings, and investing in innovation.

Starting a business in Greece requires careful planning, compliance with local regulations, and an understanding of the market. By following these steps and leveraging the available resources, you can establish and grow a successful business in this beautiful and dynamic country. 

If you need assistance or have any questions about starting your business in Greece, feel free to contact us. We’re here to help you every step of the way.
Thursday, 05 February 2015 13:27

My Week in Athens… Nov 15

No I did not participate in the Athens Classic Marathon this past weekend – but I did venture out to support (in wonderment) the thousands of people who did! Sunday was one of those autumn days that define my love for Athens – sunny, warm, people everywhere… and lots of traffic. I don’t remember how I made it down to the centre, but eventually I caught sight of the action. So great to see so many people, runners and on-lookers, it seemed the whole city was outside! I was (almost) inspired to put a 10k on my list of to-do’s for next year ;)

The afternoon was a mix of coffee and meze at a neighbourhood taverna behind the Akropolis Museum – Mani Mani is a great little ‘local’ treat. The menu is a delicious twist on typical tavern fare, with traditional and not-so-traditional food from the southern Peloponnese.

Later in the evening, I met up with some friends for a catch-up at Gazarte.

Gazarte is on the sophisticated end of things in Gazi, with live events, an art-house cinema, bar and restaurant. It’s the kind of place that has something for everyone – in an atmosphere that is decidedly ‘comfy’ and welcoming, with a great cocktail list.

Traffic and an evening protest notwithstanding, Sunday proved to be a great day. With friends, food and fun on the ticket, what could be better….

Until next week,

Jack

Mani Mani
Falirou 10, Makriyianni
www.manimani.com.gr

Gazarte
Voutadon 34 , Gazi
www.gazarte.gr

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 11:23

Greek House Attikos

This is one of the delicious contradictions of Athens. Located in one of the most touristic places, near the bus terminal for the Acropolis, this rooftop restaurant is nonetheless tourist-free. It opens late (after dark) and you need to take the lift to get to it. Minimal signage ensures it's patronised only by people who know it's there - theatre types, politicians and the society crowd.

The food is down-home Greek with an influence from Corfu, the owner's hometown, and the view of the Acropolis is magnificent.
 

Garivaldi 7, Athens, +30 210 921 5256


To read more, please visit gourmettraveller.com

By John Mangos

 

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

Wednesday, 18 February 2015 16:11

Startup Business Booming In Greece

The number of new enterprises (startups) in Greece has increased almost 10-fold in the period from 2010 to 2013, a survey by Endeavor Greece – a global non-profit organization supporting entrepreneurship - showed on March 20. The survey says that a total of 16 startups were set up in 2010, while the value of invested capital in startups soared from €500,000 in 2010 to €42 million last year, with a total of 30 startup businesses receiving investment capital.

The business of half of all the start-ups is connected to cell phone applications, such as the Taxibeat application used for booking cabs.

Endeavor Greece said capital from the Jeremie initiative – channeled through four funds (Elikonos, Odyssey, Open Fund and PJ Tech Catalyst) helped in the spectacular increase of startup businesses in the country. The results also showed that Greece-based investors accounted for 72% of new investments in 2013, while IT enterprises accounted for 50% of total investments in 2013.

Greek News Agenda

Friday, 20 February 2015 20:28

Greek Fruits And Vegetables

If you visit Greece in the summer and stay a couple weeks there are two things that will happen to you if you are able to break away from the tourist restaurants and find yourself in the places the locals eat. The first thing is that you will eat the best tomato you have ever tasted in you life. Shortly thereafter you will eat the best melon you have ever eaten in your life.

It may be a karpoozi (watermelon) or it may be a peponi (honey-dew melon) but you will look at your wife or husband or child and say "I had no idea something could taste this good and not be bad for you."

For some reason vegetables and fruits taste better in Greece than they do elsewhere. There are many theories of course. Some say it is the absence of pesticides.  I have a theory of my own. Greece is made up of mountains and valleys. The farms are in the valleys. The water rains on the mountains and washes minerals into the valleys. The more rich a fruit or vegetable is in minerals, the better it will taste. Of course I can't prove this and since many fruits and vegetables are now grown on large industrialized farms or even imported, without knowing what you are eating and where it comes from you have no way of knowing why it is good, or in some cases is not. Just because you may eat the best tomato or melon in your life during your stay in Greece does not mean that you will eat delicious vegetables rich in minerals at every meal at every restaurant. But I can say with confidence that those restaurants where the Greeks eat, great care is taken in choosing the fruits and  vegetables that are served that day.

The Greeks eat seasonally. Take the horiatiki salata or as we call in the USA and other English speaking places, the Greek Salad or Greek Village Salad. Anyone going to Greece in the summer will find delicious horiaktiki salatas that consist of fresh ripe red tomatoes, green peppers, onions, cucumbers, olives, a big hunk of feta cheese, extra virgin olive oil, oregano and if you are lucky maybe some capers! Not at every restaurant of course. You could go to some tourist joint that serves tomatoes that are closer to green than red, a smidgeon of crumbled feta and one olive, topped with whatever crappy oil they got a good deal on. But I am talking about a good honest Greek restaurant. If you eat a horiatiki salata in season you will eat them for the rest of your life. In fact you will start a garden so you can have tomatoes like the ones you had in Greece. Another salad you may not be familiar with is the Cretan or dakos, which is like a horiatiki on top of a paximadi, which is a dried hard bread, though once the olive oil and juices soak in it is not hard for long. It is delicious and healthy too.

But what if you are not there in the summer? What if it is late spring or fall or winter and you order a horiatiki salata? You don't. In the winter months (winter meaning any season that is not summer) you would eat a lachano-marouli salata (cabbage-lettuce salad). Or a lachano-carota salata (cabbage-carrot salad). Or a plain marouli (lettuce) salata.

To read the rest of this post, please visit greecefoods.com

By Matt Barrett

Friday, 22 May 2015 14:00

Exploring Parnitha & The Tatoi Estate

With nothing planned for Saturday (for once!) and sunny skies overhead, I decided to plan an afternoon escape from the city.  As it still felt a bit too early for a dip in the sea, I called up a friend and made a quick decision to head north to Mount Parnitha. We loaded our bicycles on the back of the car and drove the quick 30minutes on the national road.
 
Parnitha is a forested mountain range north of Athens, the highest on the Attica peninsula, with an elevation of 1400m. It has something for all nature lovers: endless forest, walking trails, off-road bicycle trails, picnic areas, etc. There are several ways in once you get to the area, with parking lots and maps posted. On this day, there were numerous other families and groups enjoying the day.
 
Parnitha is the location of the Tatoi estate. Tatoi was the summer home and 10,000 acre estate of the former Greek royal family, and the birthplace of King George II of Greece. You can walk around and see the old buildings of the estate. These are all derelict now, and in need of some attention – but you can get a bit of a sense of ‘the past’ from your visit.

There is a great history of the estate written by Kostas Stamatopoulos, here: http://www.tatoi.org/?page_id=69 (scroll to the bottom of the page for English).
 
Parnitha is also the location of the popular Regency Casino, accessible by cable car/teleferik. As our day was about exercising our bodies vs exercising our luck, we did not visit the casino on this trip, but made a mental note to come back ;)
 
I would describe the section of Parnitha that we visited as ‘rough and wild’ vs ‘groomed and cultivated’. Of course, we didn't see the whole area in one afternoon, but it certainly felt like a nice escape from the city, some good exercise and some fresh mountain air. Not a bad way to spend a Saturday.
 
Until next week,
 
Jack
 
 
Parnitha Visitor Overview
 
Tatoi Info (in Greek, some English):
www.tatoi.org
 
Regency Casino
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