Issue 01 || Spring 2013
www.poseidonion.com
SPETSESTheSECRET path to health NEW LUXURY
TRAVEL INSIDER
SPRING BLISS
Nicholas Coleridge, president of Condďż˝ Nast International, opens up
A journey through the undiscovered Peloponnese
Brilliant tips and ideas for the perfect marriage we all deserve Spring 2013
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2. Poseidonion Spotlight
Spring 2013
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Cover Credits Photo Vangelis Paterakis Styling Georgios C. Carabellas
EDITORIAL spring 2013
Poseidonion Spotlight Editor Marina L. Coutarelli poseidonion@clab.gr
Creative Director Giorgos Ktenidis Design & Style Director Stella Lizardi
Features Editor Andreas Alysandratos Contributors Ioanna Alexatou, Christos Daskalopoulos, Paris Kormaris, Theodore Koutsogiannopoulos, Irine Zournatzi Georgios C. Carabellas (London Editor) Contributing Photographers Alexandros Ioannidis, Costas Picadas, Ioanna Roufopoulou
Advertising & Media Inquiries poseidonionspotlight@clab.gr +30-210-8015954 The Poseidonion Spotlight is published by Communication Lab (www.clab.gr) on behalf of the Poseidonion Grand Hotel
All rights reserved
POSEIDONION GRAND HOTEL www.poseidonion.com
CEO Antonis E. Vordonis General Manager Dimitris Vlachopanos gm@poseidonion.com Sales Director Anastasios Naoum sales@poseidonion.com Tel. +30 22980 74553 Email res@poseidonion.com Facebook facebook.com/ poseidonion Twitter @poseidonion
“I wish I could take the vibe of Spetses and the aura of the Poseidonion Grand Hotel back home” is a remark we often hear from our guests. The Poseidonion Grand Hotel has been a landmark on the Spetses skyline for nearly a century with its exceptional architecture and imposing structure. The hotel first opened in 1914 and was the brainchild of visionary benefactor Sotirios Anargyros who was responsible for much of the islands’ development. Following a meticulous five year restoration period, the hotel re-opened in 2009 and since has welcomed old and new visitors to the island as well as winning an impressive array of International Awards, among which are Best Classic Boutique Hotel in the World (2012) and Best Hotel Architecture Europe (2012). Moreover, the Poseidonion Grand Hotel has initiated important cultural and athletic events- some of which are showcased in this issue- which have led to the overall development of the island. We are proud to present this inaugural issue of the Poseidonion Spotlight which embodies our hospitality values and travel philosophy: understated luxury, true and authentic local experiences, exemplary services, bespoke agendas, culinary delights, all in all, a haven to satisfy the most discerning of travelers. In this first issue, we are honored to feature insights from Nicholas Coleridge, President of Cond� Nast International into what is and what is not luxury, an interview with the descendant of the Poseidonion Grand Hotel founder Sotirios Anargyros, Demetrios Anargyros and Emanuel A.Vordonis, President of the Spetses Initiative, whose vision restored the hotel to its former glory, about what sparked this amazing journey leading to the re-birth of the hotel. Also read about the miracle plant aloe vera, the political controversy surrounding this year’s Oscars, muse over global news and tips and take a journey through the undiscovered Peloponnese. Whether you are reading this on an ipad while lounging at the pool with a detox smoothie or enjoying it in hard copy, with a signature cocktail at the Library Bar Brasserie, we hope you enjoy this first issue of the Poseidonion Spotlight!
Antonis Vordonis
Marina Coutarelli Spring 2013
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Poseidonion Spotlight spring 2013
52 profiles Demetrios Anargyros, part of the fabric of Spetses, talks about his family’s paramount role in the history and heritage of the island
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20 22 28 36
SCRAPBOOK
NEWS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE
EYE
What’s hip, what’s hot and what’s happening
6. Poseidonion Spotlight
Our Spotlight contributors send us feedback from the five continents
Oscars 2013 by Theodore Koutsogiannopoulos
SPOTLIGHT EXCLUSIVE The luxury way of life by Nicholas Coleridge
UP FRONT
trend
The president of Spetses Initiative Emanuel A. Vordonis shares the story of how it all began
Planting Aloe Vera in Spetses
88 SPOT THE SPOT In each issue correctly identify the exact spot where the photo was taken and enter into a lottery to win a dinner for two at the award winning On the Verandah Restaurant
44 58 60 77 80 84 PRIVATE TOUR La Cupola Suite at the Poseidonion Grand Hotel
SPETSES SHORT STORY
THE TRAVEL iNSIDER
EAT MY WORDS
WEDDING SPECIAL
TOP FORM
Read Ioannis Vlontakis winning short story “Well Rooted Words”
Athens to Spetses: An adventure not to be missed
Chistophoros Peskias shares his approach to life and food
From the sublime to the heavenly -our favourite wedding tips
It’s time to indulge! The Asian Spa, infuses eastern and western practices with the aura of Spetses
Spring 2013
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Scrapbook People, Places, Trends, News...
Spets-A Thlon The 1st Spetses Triathlon, co-organized with the Greek Triathlon Federation, will be held on Saturday 27th April 2013. Join us at the Poseidonion Grand Hotel verandah, the perfect vantage point to cheer the triathletes as they compete in one of the most enduring and difficult sports! www.spetsathlon.com
Green Travel is In! Spetses Classic Yacht Race 13-16th June 2013
We are proud to be the Hospitality Organizer for the 3rd Spetses Classic Yacht Race which will be held in June. Gather at the Library Bar Brasserie to marvel at more than 50 Classic Yachts, Aegean Classic Schooners and Lateens, skippered by the Hellenic Sea Scouts www.classicyachtrace.com www.facebook.com/spetsesclassicyachtrace
Key findings from TripAdvisor’s recent survey on travellers’ eco-habits *
71%
Will choose eco-friendly travel options within the next 12 months
75%
Say their preference for eco-travel is unaffected by the economy
57%
Often make eco-friendly accommodation, transport and food choices when travelling
47%
Are “green” both at home and abroad *Trip Advisor Survey of more than 700 US Travellers in 2012
10. Poseidonion Spotlight
poseidonion grand hotel
Opening Friday April 26th 2013 Get social with us www.facebook.com/poseidonion • @poseidonion
shopping in spetses For those of you who want to travel light- take a short stroll in Dapia and stop by On the Deck and The Closet to stock up on spring essentials such as Etro beachwear and Ralph Lauren cotton sweaters or sumptious hammam towels, handmade espadrilles and aromatic candles. Sample one of the traditional Spetses “amygdalota” on the waya sweet almond confectionery. The recipe can be found in our award winning cookbook “Sweets & Treats from the kitchen of the Poseidonion Grand Hotel” - a perfect souvenir to take home with you.
The Closet
Cocktail Hour The Library Bar Brasserie is going to be joined by an expert team of mixologists this season who will create signature cocktails, fresh fruit smoothies and detox juices. The bar menu is inspired by travels all over the world as well as local ingredients. Stay tuned!
On the Deck
Cock
a doodle doo! Our organic vegetable garden is going to host over 100 hens this year - ensuring that your sunny side up egg at breakfast is the freshest on the island!
Spring 2013
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Scrapbook People, Places, Trends, News...
A MOBILE BOOKSHELF ON THE PAVEMENT
Eleftherios Ambatzis and Irini- Aimilia Ioannidou,
Public furniture which you can approach and use 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with no subscription or contribution fees required, with the sole responsibility of swapping books. Young Greek architects Eleftherios Ambatzis and Irini- Aimilia Ioannidou, envisioned and materialized the first swapping bookshelf in Greece. It is a modern construction, created in such a way as to ensure durability from external factors such as vandalism and weather conditions. The basic structure is made from steel, clad in wood and finished by sandwiched aluminum panels, making the structure robust and strong. A solar panel roof supplies power to LED lights, placed individually in every shelf, illuminating the books during the night. The public bookshelf not only increases social interaction, but also allows its users to borrow any number of books for an unrestricted amount of time encouraging them to exchange them with their own personal reading collections. Users are asked to stick the ‘swapping sticker’ on the book in order to ‘mark it’ and officially offer it to the bookshelf ’s collection. Updated on a daily basis, this collection depends on its users’ good will.
The first swapping bookshelf was placed in the area of Kifissia in June 2012. The architects pursued the project in collaboration with the Onassis foundation and constructed two more bookshelves. One was placed outside the Onassis Cultural Center and the second, was a mobile one, touring different areas and cities so that more and more people can get to use it and get familiar with the idea. The plan of the two architects is to form a wide network of swapping bookshelves throughout Greece, each one unique in design in order to blend within its surroundings and background history, while at the same time maintaining an overall aesthetic continuum. They envision each neighborhood having its own swapping bookshelf, becoming a vital element of public space where ideas are freely spread and people interact and socialize. www.vivliothiki.org, www.sgt.gr 12. Poseidonion Spotlight
TRADITION REVISITED Greek band Imam Baildi represent the current sound of music as it embraces its roots. Their motto might as well be “back to the future” but not in the old fashioned traditional way - they are more keen to introduce Greek folk music to the modern crowd than to academically mimic classic folk artists from the past. And they are extremely stylish, too. As well as touring all over Greece, they will be performing live in Europe in cultural driven cities such as Berlin, Hamburg,Vienna, Zurich, Brussels and more. Check their Facebook page for the schedule and don’ t forget to “like” them. We do. www.facebook.com/imambaildi
Imam Baildi
ORGANIC ZEST We applaud all efforts to showcase organic Greek products and to export them. Citrus Shops offer products created using organic fruit from Kambos in Chios. Timeless flavours, which are passed on from generation to generation, such as fruits in syrup, marmalades, marzipans. Products which do justice to the greek culinary heritage and the new organic trend which we respect and adhere to in Spetses. The fruit is harvested from three estates in Kambos covering a total area of more than 40 acres. Greek farmers tend to the land using traditional techniques to yield a flavourful, precious crop. It’s a brave, tasteful, healthy, beautiful new world after all!
www.citrus-chios.gr
Α Great Soul Sir Patrick Leigh Fermor was a British author, widely described as the “greatest travel writer of our times” as well as a scholar and a soldier. A BBC journalist once referred to him as a cross between Indiana Jones, James Bond and Graham Greene. He was a self-educated polymath, a lover of Greece and fearless - hence his involvement in the Cretan resistance during World War II. Artemis Cooper’s beautifully crafted biography of him portrays a man elegant, handsome, curious, blessed with near eidetic memory. A memoire that is “propably the most important travel - related book the year” according to Cond� Nast Traveller. Treat yourself to a unique book which will give you insight to a great man’s soul. Spring 2013
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14. Poseidonion Spotlight
NEWS
FROM AROUND THE GLOBE Compiled by Andreas Alysandratos
David Bowie Is... On the day of his 66th birthday, David Bowie released his new single “Where Are We Now?”. His new album “The Next Day” is already out there and it is, by far, the most talked about album of the year. But that’s not all. How could it be when it‘s Bowie we are talking about? Victoria and Albert Museum will open its gates on March 23rd for the bigger than music / art / style event of the year, “David Bowie Is”. The V & A has been granted unlimited access to Bowie’s archive.The first international retrospective of his career, “David Bowie Is” will feature more than 300 objects, including original costumes, fashion, photography, set designs and Bowie’ s own instruments. For some people it is the event of a lifetime. “David Bowie Is” will bring you closer than ever to the man himself. To the...”man who sold the world”! V & A Museum, London, 23 March - 11 August 2013 Opening Times: 10.00 - 17.45 daily, 10.00 - 22.00 Fridays
Spring 2013
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NEWS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE
Loukia Alavanou
Hell As Pavilion Andreas Embiricos
Tassos Vrettos Stelios Faitakis
Kostis Velonis
Takis Zenetos
“Hell as Pavilion” is an exhibition that examines the question of “being contemporary” within a culture in crisis. It brings together Greek artists from various generations, and urges us to “read history in unforeseen ways” to imagine into existence new mobile and minor networks. The exhibition features works by Alexis Akrithakis, Andreas Embiricos, Nikos Engonopoulos, Konstantinos Ladianos and Tassos Vrettos among many others. It is hosted by the Palais de Tokyo in Paris and is curated by Nadja Argyropoulou realized with the collaboration of architect Yorgos Tzirtzilakis and made possible by the support of Philip & Spyros Niarchos, the DESTE foundation and the centre Culturel Hellenique de Paris. Worth a trip to the magnificent Paris! Palais de Tokyo, Paris 27 February - 04 Μarch 2013
Vassilis P. Karouk
Nikos Engonopoulos
16. Poseidonion Spotlight
The Ideal House Tired of the traditional catwalk set? No worries! We present you with the “Ideal House”, a set built around the perimeter of an audience. An interior with amazing geometric furniture and objects commonly known to us through our quality of everyday life. The models weave through this set acting as characters - amazing, isn’t it? A series of images are projected through multiple window frames on the wall, working obviously as backdrops. The furniture are anticipations of the upcoming series designed by OMA for Knoll, and will be launched officially in their final version later this year. “The Ideal House” Prada F / W 2013 Man Show is presented here, with these photos, in all its stylish and artistic beauty. Please, enjoy!
FEMININE POWER Miu Miu’ s series of short films by distinctive international female directors have already developed a fan base with wide range of interests - from fashionistas to film lovers and from political thinkers to hipsters. The fifth episode in these series, “The Door”, is a celebration of the transformative power of feminine bonds and it has been unveiled on www.miumiu.com. Check it out - it’s refreshing how Miu Miu uses fashion to explore political issues as well as lifestyle thesis. “The Door” follows “The Powder Room”, by Zoe Cassavetes; “Muta”, by Lucrecia Martel; “The Woman Dress”, by Giada Colagrande and “It’s Getting Late”, by Massy Tadjedin in “The Miu Miu Women’s Tales” series.
Spring 2013
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NEWS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE
Brick Lane Bikes
MA COCOTTE Ma Cocotte, which is used in French as a term of endearment (“my hen”) and likewise means “pot”, recently opened by fabulous interior designer Philip Starck and Fabienne and Philip Amzalak, in one of the largest flea markets in the world at the northern edge of Paris. Calling the project the realization of a childhood dream, Starck, a Paris native, describes the eatery as a “bowl,” the type of place that evokes images of a “bowl of hot soup, a bowl of steaming coffee, a bowl of fragrant tea, a bowl of wine…” Against α background of lacquered wood and bricks, Starck’s design connects a series of eclectic furniture and objects in the manner of a collage. The parquet is punctuated with large patterns in cement tiles, surrealist photographs hang on the walls and the shelves are laden with the harvest of an impulsive collector. In the kitchen,chef Yannick Papin, describes the menu as “classic Parisian dishes revisited” at prices that range from €20 to €60. All in all “Ma Cocotte” represents the art of living and eating! As Stark aptly puts it “all that matters is what’s in the bowl and who you are eating it with” You got that right!
Ma Cocotte, 106, Rue des Rosiers (in the Saint- Ouen flea market)
18. Poseidonion Spotlight
We all love biking, don’t we? Yes, we do. H&M does too, and that’ s why they are launching an entire new collection for biking, the H&M for Brick Lane Bikes. The collection includes 11 items conceptualized, created and produced by H&M under the guidance and approval of Brick Lane Bikes. Brick Lane Bikes was the first fixed-gear bicycle store to focus on custom - made bicycles and today serves as the heart of the bicycle action in eastern London. The collection combines successfully the bicycle world with the urban culture of today. Hip outwear for all who love biking as well as dressing nicely. For the occasion or not. Don’t forget that the biggest trend for this year is athletic gear - you can wear it everywhere. Especially in Spetses this summer!
Lichtenstein
A Retrospective “Lichtenstein: A Retrospective”, Tate Modern: This retrospective is as good as it gets. It Is the first full scale retrospective of the artist’s work, the first of its kind since his death and it brings together 125 of his most definitive paintings and sculptures including all his key paintings such as “Look Mickey” (1961), “Whaam!” (1963) and “Drowning Girl” (1963) as well as sculptues in ceramic and brass and a collection of previously unseen drawings, collages and works on paper. Lichtenstein was famous for bringing cartoon imagery into art and, along with Andy Warhol, for giving an artistic alibi and aesthetic extravagance to objects from everyday popular culture and consumer goods. As Lichtenstein once said: “The things I have parodied I actually admire”. We, too admire his work and we will be there. Tate Modern, London 21 February 27 May 2013 Opening Times 10.00 - 20.00 daily (last ticket sale 19.00)
HOMES IN THE SKY First he changed Miami Beach with the launch of the “Delano” hotel. Now, Ian Schrager is changing the way people live in Miami Beach by introducing homes that perfectly compliment the new generation of global citizens: the Residences at The Miami Beach EDITION. These 26 limited edition residences set themselves apart from anything else in Miami Beach. “There is simply nothing else like them currently in the marketplace. We tried to capture the details of life in the details of the architecture,” says Schrager. Designed by John Pawson, the residences will sit on the top floors of the existing, landmarked 1950s building that will be the Miami Beach EDITION hotel, as well as in an adjacent, newly constructed 18-story tower. Each one of these stylish “Homes in the Sky” is one-of-a-kind and different from the other to mark the individually “bespoke” needs and points of view of the new world traveller and learner. “Homes in the Sky” will include everything one would need in a household, all pre-selected, unpacked and perfectly organized prior to arrival. Not hard to understand why they are called “Residential Pret-aPorter”. www.miamibeacheditionresidences.com
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EYE The truth is that it was the first time that we saw an active political figure, even if Michelle Obama is not an elected one, getting involved in an awards ceremony of such high caliber, with no apparent reason, other than attracting attention and viewership. In a year of political movies, succeeding a year of crucial presidential elections, the woman closest to the President was probably more than happy to give the award to a film that celebrated the ingenuity in finding resourceful means to overcome obstacles that threatened American citizens in a foreign, and largely considered, non-democratic country. The Iranians screamed propaganda. The rest of the world saw it as a paradoxical communication trick.
Lincoln
Judging from the dazed, mumbling, utterly bored, actress/ presenter Kristen Stewart, the 85th Oscar ceremony was not an event for the young, hip crowd. The classic feel and rather heavy, older demographic oriented night was defined by the plethora of movie veterans, such as Jane Fonda, Jack Nicholson, Dustin Hoffman and Michael Douglas, and Oscar perennials, as Charlize Theron and Jennifer Aniston, as well as emphasized by the tribute to musical, thus honoring the achievement and the success of this year’s Les Miserables. The filmed version by past winner Tom Hooper eventually came away with two technical and one major trophy, the supporting actress award bestowed to the unusually toned down Ann Hathaway, who expressed hope that the poor Fantines of this world will cease to exist. In truth, no movie clearly swept the Oscars, and there was no winner of more than 4 awards- an oddity considering that Oscar members tend to vote along the lines of a trend. Furthermore, after almost three hours of polite applause and standard speeches, one major surprise upset the predictable flow.
Silver Linings Playbook
OSCARS 2013 CLASSIC HOLLYWOOD AND POLITICAL CONTROVERSY by Theodore Koutsogiannopoulos The sight of the ceremonious and smiling Michelle Obama, surrounded by young State officials in the White House, live from the Academy Awards ceremony, being handled the envelope for the top prize of the glitzy soiree presented in Las Vegas fashion by comedian and writer Seth MacFarlane, and announcing that Argo won best film of the year, was certainly an unprecedented gesture, that was subsequently blasted by the Iranian government. A long-standing feud between the Americans and the Iranians was rekindled by the negative depiction of the post revolutionary security, that allowed the 6 American hostages to flee the country via a make-up expert, a Hollywood producer, a flawed spy and the Canadian authorities, and Iran (a country infamous for applying severe censorship to native filmmakers) threatened to reply with a film showing a different, more Iranian-friendly version of the same story.
20. Poseidonion Spotlight
Everyone expected that Argo, Ben Affleck’s part Hollywood satire, part political thriller, chronicling the escape of 6 U.S. officials from Iran more than 30 years ago, would easily snatch the coveted Best Picture Oscar. It did, although it was not the clear favorite in the beginning of the long awards circuit that traditionally starts off with the critic’s choices late November and concludes with the Oscars. Up until last September, Steven Spielberg’s Lincoln was heavily tipped to win all major awards, due to the serious subject, the respected all star cast and crew and the topicality. The Osama Bin Laden political action drama Zero Dark Thirty, directed by Catherine Bigelow, was also an early contender, easily winning best picture and best director from New York Critics. Gradually, Lincoln ran out of steam, becoming a generally admired film, with no real sentiment behind it. Somewhere along Lincoln’s stumbling and Zero Dark Thirty’s objections over the use of torture and doubts of propaganda, Argo emerged as the dark horse that everyone took to heart: It was a tight, fast paced fairy tale that used real events in a simple and digestible narrative manner, focusing the essence of the story. A grateful Ben Affleck, the heartthrob actor that had won an Oscar for best screenplay 16 years ago, gave an emotional speech when he accepted his producing Oscar, pointing out the necessity of always getting up and continuing after the fall. George Clooney, co-producer and mentor, smiled in joy, graciously offering the moment to Affleck, since Argo was basically his artistic baby, although he was mysteriously omitted from the five nominated directors.
This baffling choice left space for Spielberg to hope for the third directing Oscar of his illustrious career, after Schindler’s List and Saving Private Ryan. Surprise: Ang Lee prevailed, sealing Life of Pi’s good fortune in the ceremony, since it was the movie that won the most Oscars, 4 compared to 3 by Argo. Life Of Pi was an amazingly shot 3-D blockbuster about a boy, a boat, a tiger, philosophy and religion, a feast for the eyes that moved audiences and had tremendous box office succes. However, very few expected a victory in the major categories, let alone the director’s prize. Ang Lee thanked the god of movies and seemed to bask in the additional delight that came from the upset.
Argo
Quentin Tarantino was also a surprise, albeit a minor one, in the Screenplay category, winning for the second time after almost 20 years, this time for his outrageous spaghetti western Django. Considered as a director par excellence, he insisted that his primary concern is sculpting meaningful characters and casting the right people to portray them, hoping to be remembered many years from now exactly for that. His discovery, Christophe Waltz, won for the second time, the second Austrian that took home an Oscar, after the easy win by the great Michael Haneke and his austere masterpiece, Amour, in the foreign language category. In the lead actor’s race, there was not an ounce of anticipation. The presenter, last year’s winner Meryl Streep, skipped the standard procedure of opening the envelope, having done that while the names of the nominated were announced, and proclaimed Daniel Day Lewis as the winner. The brilliant Brit, arguably the best living thespian, and now the only male to have received three Oscars for a leading role, looked genuinely shocked and awed by the honor, as he always does. He is the only true outsider that Hollywood accepts as an artist beyond classification, an actor possessed by the characters he portrays (and eventually haunts), an adorable stranger that every once in a while, according to his whims and wishes, revisits cinema in a unique way and leaves an indelible mark, that has nothing to do with the ordinary. But if Daniel Day Lewis, the son of a poet and an actress, is the recurring exception to the rule of a community that is noble enough to honor foreign “royalty”, Jennifer Lawrence was the overnight sensation, the new Princess of Hollywood. Already nominated two years ago for the gloomy indie film Winter’s Bone, Lawrence was propelled to gargantuan fame by the blockbusters X-Men The First Series and Hunger Games. At 22, she became the second youngest winner in the lead actress category, with her energetic, funny and complex turn as depressive nymphomaniac Tiffany in the revisionist romantic comedy Silver Linings Playbook, beating Jessica Chastain and 85year old Emmanuelle Riva, to whom she wished happy birthday in her emotional speech while accepting her Oscar. Whip smart, fast-talking and, unlike the rest of the young crop, equipped with a self-deprecating sense of humor, the husky voiced Kentucky born Lawrence has the potential to combine the career of an action star and a character actress. She is the future, having already pushed the envelope in a profession that has traditionally challenged and questioned the choices of women in film.
Life of Pi
Les Miserables
Spring 2013
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Spotlight Exclusive
Nicholas Coleridge is President of Cond� Nast International and, for our very first issue, he talks about luxury. What is luxury and what’s not. And, more importantly, what is “New Luxury”. He is the right man at the right time. Truly Honored!.
How does travel culture affect a publication as influential as Cond� Nast? Every year - and I confess that I was astonished by this statistic myself - we publish 15,000 pages of travel editorial across the Cond� Nast Group. We review more than 8000 hotels and run Reader Travel Awards in three continents. We publish Hot Lists, Gold Lists, Spa lists - in fact we run 4 specific Spa awards programs per year. We publish ‘Rooms with a View’ on the back page of Traveller. We give prizes for Concierge of the Year, Beach of the Year, Best Cities, Best First Class, Best Business Class, Best Budget Class, Best Cruise. In fact, reading this out, I am having a vivid picture of my own life flashing past,watching all these trophies presented at so many awards ceremonies in so many countries. Why do you pay so much attention to travel in your magazines?
The Luxury Way of Life 22. Poseidonion Spotlight
The reason is very simple - the readers of our magazines have an extraordinary interest in the whole subject of Travel. Of course, we live in a world in which cheaper flights and more choice has enabled more people of all backgrounds to travel than ever before. But the biggest travellers are statistically the readers of our magazines - people with the intellectual interest and financial ability to do so.
What is the profile of your average reader?
Do you think the time is right for all these new editions?
I am not going to browbeat you with marketing statistics, but here is just one. The average reader of our 142 glossy, luxury magazines takes on average five holidays per year - the Traveller reader, please note, takes nine! - two of them proper holidays, i.e. longer than a week, lounging on beaches, staying in beautiful hotels, R&R. On top of that there is very often a week’s skiing and two city breaks, with partner, spouse or lover, depending on inclination. That’s 145 million readers taking five holidays and short breakseach = 725 million holidays!
Has there ever been a more exciting time to be in travel than now? With a dozen ever-expanding, ever-more discerning 5-star hotel groups, circling the world, with ever-rising standards of service. Whoever predicted the Oberoi Group and the Taj Group would grow so big? Or the Mandarin Oriental, Four Seasons, Ritz-Carlton or Dorchester Collection? Or the rise of the Leela Group? And Park Hyatt? There is so much news in Travel - sometimes it feels like the travel industry is now moving as fast as the fashion industry, with new trends in Spas, new brands - think of all those Fashion House Brands, like Armani, Bulgari and Versace, all with swanky hotels. Even we, as magazine publishers, have been getting into the hospitality business with our Vogue Caf�, GQ Bar and Tatler Club, all in Moscow, and coming soon the Vogue Caf� in Kiev and GQ Bar in Istanbul, and Vogue Cafes and GQ bars in Dubai and another half dozen more in the pipeline for 2014.
Impressive! And here is a second statistic: we focus group and research all our magazines on a regular basis and in almost every instance, travel comes out as one of the three or four best read sections. We actually see the same phenomenon replicated on our websites - huge curiosity and hunger for new hotel ideas and where to go to next. Do politics and geopolitical changes affect travel trends? What we find so fascinating as publishers is how trends in travel change so fast, as newly affluent nations provide new waves of affluent tourists, all requiring something slightly different. Agreed! However, you do recognize some steady traveller’s trends, don’t you? Would you mind giving us some examples? Russian tourists with their love of sophisticated cities like Paris for luxury shopping, and for big ticket skiing destinations and practically taking over North Goa and St Tropez. The Chinese - and let no one doubt that the Chinese are coming in ever greater numbers - with their fondness of labels and fashion capitals, increasingly Italy, and big tours. The Indian consumer, who rates Dubai, London, New York and Singapore as top vacation destinations and the South Koreans who are really now emerging - Gangnam Style - as travel players. And of course, there are still the British, Italians and French with their enduring love of India, Cambodia, the Caribbean and safaris in Africa. And the Americans - the original big buck tourists who started this all off - with their almost sacred veneration of Paris and obviously Venice. The American in Paris and the American in Venice with a fistful of dollars and a vodka martini are two of the stock figures of tourism: and lucrative ones too. And increasingly we are starting to see Azerbaijani and Khazak tourists, occupying the best suites in the best hotels. What a challenging job, if you are a hotelier: catering to all these different groups and expectations.
We’ ve talked a lot about your readers. What about yourself? What are your travel habits? In some ways I am a fairly typical Cond� Nast consumer myself. I try to take two or three holidays and short breaks a year with my family, and make about 20 work trips, mostly to Moscow, Munich and Mumbai but also New York. So my experience of hotels is a mixture of family places, where we can take the children, and business hotels. I also have a taste for small, remote places to spend a couple of days to rest my brain. I love to travel. I have just come back from India - I think it is my 60th trip to the country, and the place never fails to excite. Where do you get your inspiration from? I get my inspiration from magazines, online, talking to friends, and asking for their recommendations. I tear pages from magazines throughout the year.
..and if you are a publisher? We - as Publishers - are launching our new editions to cater for these new groups, with their particular priorities andrequirements.
Spring 2013
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Spotlight Exclusive
...There seems to be a new trend called “New Luxury”. What exactly does it mean and what does it represent?... New Luxury Is... Let me share with you what I think is New Luxury... 10 things I really appreciate, and 10 things I don’t:
5. Bedside lighting bright enough to read. Amazing how many 5star hotels don’t have this basic requirement.
1. First - and this is essential - A Swimming Pool. An outdoor swimming pool. With plenty of long comfortable sun beds around it, which can be adjusted to different heights for reading. Ideally covered in towelling - not plastic strips. It is great if there is at least one poolside waiter on duty patrolling around with drinks and chunks of mango and pineapple on wooden skewers. A poolside reflexologist is highly welcome too.
6. Quick room service. 20 minutes is the maximum I ever wish to wait for breakfast, dinner, anything, from the moment I pick up the telephone to order.
2. A well-lit bar. I very much dislike dark ones. For some reason, many bars in American hotels are plunged into gloomy darkness - maybe it dates from the days of prohibition? Give me light! 3. Blankets on the bed or additional duvets. I like to sleep with a lot of weight of bedding. Good hotels have plenty of surplus blankets, easily found in the cupboard - not just the bedcover rolled up into a neat coil in a bag.
7. Warmth. Please don’t fill my room with arctic freeze. Icy air-con is not luxury. 8. Great plug systems. The Taj in Mumbai has a brilliant new dashboard where you can plug in and recharge any type of electric device - European, British, American - all work. No more travel adaptors. That’s luxury. 9. A small basket of emergency razors, toothpaste, all of it. Useful toiletries. The Japanese and Chinese are very good at this. 10. Some hotels put a canvas or raffia carrier bag in the wardrobe, to use as a beach bag. Much appreciated. I like it.
4. Solitude. Please don’t keep speaking to me. Or ask me, “How was your starter?” “How was your steak?” “How was your poppadom?”. I will tell you if there’s a problem.
Travel Trends If you were to name five trends of modern travel what would these be? Across our company we conduct plenty of research - focus groups, questionnaires. We’ve distilled down what we have learnt about people’s attitude to modern luxury travel to these five trends:
1. Time is the greatest luxury of all. People are working ever longer hours - permanently plugged into their iPhone or Blackberry. We can be “got” anywhere, anytime, in our new-age “always-on” culture. Advances in technology have advanced our professional and personal lives in so many ways, but they have eaten into our time. It’s because of its sanctified scarcity that TIME has become the evermore precious LUXURY. We are seeing a real trend in the need for people to get the very most out of every moment. 2. Really going off the beaten track. More and more our readers are looking for the new, and relatively undiscovered destinations. For the new economies this might actually mean Manhattan. For the old economies it could be Mongolia, or staying at the Virunga Safari
24. Poseidonion Spotlight
New Luxury Is Not... 1. A personal butler. Frankly I don’t want one. I can never think of anything to do with the poor guy. Years ago my wife and I were staying at the Mandarin Oriental hotel in Hong Kong, and had been generously upgraded to a magnificent suite - the Macau Suite, complete with Chinese butler. At the time we were vaguely hoping to conceive our first baby. Each time we were ready to get going, the door opened again - it was the Personal Butler…with fresh ice. It happened about four times. Amazing that our eldest son ever happened. He is 21 now. Often so-called personal service can be annoying, and is suspiciously like “tip-bait”. 2. Complicated lighting. God I do dislike it, and it is getting worse. It simply isn’t luxury to be handed three TV-changer devices to control 25 different lighting circuits. How often have I had to sleep with several lights on in the room all night, or corridor, because I don’t want to summon someone to sort it out? Please, give me simple coherent switches. 3. Electronic plastic room keys - the worst. Invariably they are nuked by your mobile phone in your pocket and wiped clean. You arrive at your bedroom on the 16th floor after a long day. The plastic key is inoperational, you can’t enter your own room. Luxury is a proper metal room key. With a tassel on it. 4. Locked and sealed bedroom windows. I cannot sleep without fresh air. I need an open window. Fresh air is a basic human right. The Taj Palace in Mumbai provides me with a special metal spanner to open the windows. 5. User satisfaction cards and questionnaires. Spare me! I don’t want to order a cup of coffee in the coffee shop and then be expected to fill in a 16 question score card - marks out of ten for service, for cleanliness, for speed. Similarly email “exit” questionnaires. There is an unwelcome new fad for hotels sending 30 question emails
Lodge in Rwanda to watch gorillas. Magazines like Traveller are where the rich discover “hidden gems”. 3. Living in an age of conscious consumption. The impact of the recession on the theme of new luxury has been interesting. Yes - even the very rich of the old economies have become more conscious consumers as a result of challenging financial times. They think before they buy, have become extra discriminating. But, interestingly investment levels per holiday are relatively untouched the readers of American Traveller spend an average of $27k dollars a year their vacations - and in the UK, Italy, Russia etc spending levels are similarly high.
asking how your stay was. Delete, delete. And on the subject of questionnaires, I don’t want to fill in a four page document about my medical history before having a massage in the hotel spa. Especially as this is never passed to the masseuse. 6. Tipping. I like to give tips, but I don’t like feeling hounded for them. There is a hotel in New York which particularly annoys me. I shan’t name it. If you order a bowl of soup in your room, it comes with an ‘In Room Dining’ surcharge, a ‘Delivery Charge’ and a 20% ‘Gratuity’. And then the tip line on the bill is left open, and the waiter loiters about until he gets one - four surcharges on one bowl of soup! 7. Overstuffed cushions on the bed - dozens of them - arranged in a particular way, which the room service people are forever rearranging, removing at night, replacing. 8. The welcome drink. I am far from sure that a delightful lady in a sari, holding out a fruit juice and a cold flannel in the lobby is really something I want. 9. The Letter of Welcome from the Manager - once special, now a feature of every room, every chain, propped up against the fruit bowl. Often a facsimile signature, not even his own. That don’t impress me much, as Shania Twain would put it… 10. And finally - the strategically placed, very expensive looking bottle of claret with two glasses. Is it a present? Or isn’t it? If I open it, will a charge of 250 Euros appear on my bill? I assume so - and won’t risk it - so never touch it. If it is a present, how annoying is that?! Please make it clear, with the single word ‘complimentary’.
4. There’s a desire for the holiday to provide some kind of narrative beyond the comfort of the hotel room, or the food in the hotel restaurant. It appears that what the rich want is to escape to a world of storytelling. By which they mean the magic of travel - a camera-full of photos and a sense of new things experienced. 5. Luxury means different things to different nations, and different people within those nations. We may all have less time, we may all seek value, but we all have a different view. I have said I have no love of the personal butler. I know from looking at our research there are many, many people who want nothing better.
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- Promotion -
- Promotion -
Top me Up! Inspired by the Greek bitter almond drink “soumada” and sageboth found in abundance in Spetses, CHIVAS Ambassador Michalis Kagiannis, created CHIVAS Spetses, a signature cocktail exclusively designed for the brand new cocktail bar at the Poseidonion Grand Hotel and for our very own first issue of Poseidonion Spotlight as well. Enjoy the sweetness of soumada and sage, combined with the Chivas Regal’s 12y.o. flavours of vanilla and almonds to achieve a very distinct yet tasteful scent.
CHIVAS Spetses Ingredients: 60ml Chivas Regal 12 years old 25ml Soumada 15ml freshly squeezed lime juice 3 or 4 leaves of dried sage or 1 large fresh sage leaf 0,5-1 cm piece of ginger
Top me Up at the Verandah Cocktail Bar!
How to prepare this cocktail: Muddle the ginger piece in the shaker. Fill the shaker with ice cubes and all the ingredients shake vigorously. Strain, using an old fashion tea strainer, and adding crushed ice. Garnish with the fresh sage. Cheers!
UPFRONT
“How it all began...� By Emmanuel A.Vordonis, President of Spetses Initiative, whose vision restored the Poseidonion Grand Hotel
28. Poseidonion Spotlight
This is a small personal story on the magic of Spetses and the Poseidonion Grand Hotel to inspire and lead forward
Summer 2002 A brisk walk through the hills overlooking the port and toward the observatory of the Anargyreios and Korgialeneios School, is always revitalizing. It rejuvenates the love for life, we so frequently carelessly let to wear down, in the repetitive routine of every day. It is the pungent scents of the wild “throubi”, the thyme and resin of the pine trees, as well as the “Schinaria” bushes which stretch all the way from Agia Anna and the Spithari water spring that sensitize the senses and take you through the thick woods to the small plateau of the Star Observatory of the Anargyrios School, happy and strong. As you walk higher up at the hill tops, one following the other, like all of a sudden, the friendly Argolic Gulf and the magnificent Aegean Sea to the east unfold before you. If you happen to be out before sunrise, the chilly north-westerly “maistro” wind from the first capital of Greece, Nafplio, makes you pick up the pace, as your heart beats faster and enjoyment grows. And then, the breaking dawn adds its own golden-red brush strokes. Spring 2013
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UPFRONT
The restoration process lasted five years and carefully preserved the architectural fixtures and intricate details of the historic building.
The higher you climb, the deeper the horizon, surprises you at each clearing through the forest. The Argolic mainland over here, Hydra and Dokos to the north; the rocky islands Trikeri and Traperi eastwards and to the southeast the islands of Parapola, Falkonera and Milos are waking up, triggering an uncontrollable thirst from the blue of the Aegean. To the west, lie Psili island and the old city of Nafplio, while deeper north, the Didyma and the mountain volumes of the historic Peloponnesian mainland. They are all members of the exciting sky line that connects heaven with us humans down here on Earth. As the rising sun is bringing the clear Hellenic light of the new day, God’s creations are waking up, full of the life only nature can give, to energise its eternal rhythm. Guests at the Poseidonion Grand Hotel are welcomed by freshly squeezed orange juice from our organic fruit and vegetable garden.
But when the eyes turn lower to the beautiful lands below, the elegant and imposing buildings of the Anargyrios and Korgialenios School, the olive grove, the marvellous gardens, the Poseidonion Grand Hotel just on the harbour waterline and further along, the eclectic architecture of the mansion, the home of Sotirios Anargyros seem loudly abandoned. Contrary to the powers of the divine nature to regenerate itself, the creations of the inspired benefactor destined to change the life and path of his island at the beginning of the previous century, his buildings appeared worn down, lifeless and dangerously eroding in the merciless passage of time. So, on the one hand, God’s creations take your breath away and confirm the hope and optimism for the years to come, on the other hand though, the works of a man gifted with this vision and that unimaginable creativity, while Greece, in the early 20th century, was still struggling to stand on its own two feet and preserve life in our evolving world, were wildly deteriorating triggering thought and self criticism. These admirable works once created glorious times of splendour. They defined the modern history of this place and were the birthplace of a new generation, a society that would undertake the Herculean task of resurrecting a country getting out of the 400 years of the Ottoman occupation and into a newly born democratic liberation.. Since then, almost a whole century has passed and the prominent marks of time scared the whole creation. The buildings were in relentless decay. Institutional rigidity, the lack of adequate funding and the scarcity of the technical and specialised resources were highly stretching the leadership of the Anargyrios Foundation in their vision and efforts to preserve, extend and refresh the life span of their buildings and the Poseidonion in particular. Financial and other multidimensional support was evidently needed to create the hope for the renovation and life extension of what in the past was the graceful meeting point of the local and international elite visiting the country.
30. Poseidonion Spotlight
The Poseidonion Grand Hotel was first built in 1914 and was the vision of Spetses benefactor Sotirios Anargyros In 2012 the hotel won four prestigious international awards including Best Luxury Boutique Hotel in the World Best Architecture Europe - International Hotel Awards
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UPFRONT
It is natural thus that this sense of our historical heritage at risk, would give rise to a strong impulse, which would grow to become a drive and determination, to be transformed into a sense of duty, vision and commitment. This more so could happen if the uphill walker had during the previous night, read the biography of Sotirios Anargyros which describes the vision of a young man,from an illustrious seafaring family, who started out with very little to ultimately conquer the world. And then, decided to bring everything he had seen and admired and earned in order to give a new life to his homeland, the island of Spetses.That is how it all began! Along with the excitement and impulsiveness of the moment that inspired the commitment, the courage was also born for the engagement in a project that would surely be tough, complicated, arduous and financially heavy. A mission thought that seemed worthwhile to complete. That is how the Spetses Initiative was born. Its purpose is to contribute to the work of the Anargyreios Korgialeneios Foundation with essential investments to revive the Poseidonion Grand Hotel; and ultimately with specialised knowledge, imagination and creative management, to restore it to its former glory. The hotel must maintain its high quality and a lasting financial self-sufficiency, that will allow it to preserve its welldeserved position in the years to come. The bids were submitted, the permits were issued, and now, after countless obstacles have been overcome, the project, undertaken with the great enthusiasm and a capable devoted team approaches its completion.
June 2009 Nearly, one hundred years later, the Poseidonion Hotel once again opened its doors, refreshed and ready for a new life. It remembers, respects and honours every moment of its past. It is conscious of the responsibility that accompanies its history and tradition. It is prepared to function as it should, to bring back its old friends and to invite new generations into its circle, and to serve as a gracious place for spiritualism, inspiration, enrichment and recreation.
32. Poseidonion Spotlight
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34. Poseidonion Spotlight
SECRET GARDEN
A Feast
for the senses At the southeastern end of Argolida, across the island of Spetses, lies the ideal Greek garden, designed by the renowned French landscape architect Jean Mus. By Ioanna Alexatou, photo: Costas Picadas
This is how I imagine Eden...
an endless garden, full of fascinating colors and aromas that fade into the vast blue sea. This estate is bliss to the soul - an ode to the beauty of Greek nature. Its heart lies in the houses, designed in the traditional style of a Spetses village by the architect Dimitris Sfyris. Around, spread the gardens, in complete harmony with the landscape, climate, light and shade, bearing the signature of the renowned French landscape architect Jean Mus: An aromatic lemon grove, olive trees, plants and scented flowers of the Mediterranean flora with limited need for water, blend with works of art by French, Spanish and Greek artists. I follow a path leading to the sea, bordered by lavenders, lilies, rosemary, thyme and almirikia trees. A sculpture at its end seems to serve as a medium between the garden and the sea, in a creative dialect with the rock across and the islands fading in the distance. Spring 2013
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TREND
An ally for life
In a field not very far from the Poseidonion Grand Hotel grows a plant which has been often called a miracle one. It is aloe vera, whose fresh juice proves to be extremely beneficial for overall well-being. By Paris Kormaris
36. Poseidonion Spotlight
As part of his everyday breakfast, 39 year old Loizos Ioannou consumes a combination of fresh fruit juices in which he adds 40-50 ml of fresh aloe vera leaf juice. One can find various processed versions of aloe in pharmacies and health food stores, but he prefers to prepare the leaf juice himself and consume it in its purest form. “All you have to do is carefully remove the rind and the so called ‘aloin’, a yellow sticky substance which is bitter and acts as an extremely powerful laxative”, he tells me. “Place what’s left in a blender and there you have it! It took no more than a week of regular use to feel my whole body functioning more efficiently. While most people have heard of the aloe vera gel being used externally or as an ingredient in lotions and cosmetics, it is when drinking the juice of its leaves that you benefit the most”. There are more than 75 known ingredients in the aloe vera leaf, all of which are important for human health and wellbeing. Proponents of aloe vera claim that it helps cure or ease the symptoms of various medical conditions, from psoriasis to the irritable bowel syndrome and other disorders of the immune system. “I feel like it’s cleansing me from the inside, removing whatever is not needed”, says Ioannou. “I’ve really fallen in love with it”. It is a love he wants to share with the guests of the Poseidonion Grand Hotel. Therefore he has joined forces with Antonis Vordonis, the hotel’s CEO, turning a previously barren piece of land on the island into an organic aloe vera plantation. “Greece and Spetses have the ideal climate and conditions for that”, explains Ioannou. “Although the aloe plant looks like a cactus, it is actually a succulent, a member of the lily family. I dare say it is blessed. Its only enemies being excessive water, frost and snails, it is very resilient and easy to be taken care of, using only natural methods. It is a pity that Greece only produces 10% of the aloe vera it consumes”. Despite the obvious potential, Ioannou and Vordonis have no plans of hitting the markets.
“Our only aim so far is to cater to the guests of the Poseidonion Grand Hotel with a premium natural product”, says Ioannou. “We don’t want to rush into anything. Apart from aloe, we have planted pomegranate trees, for pomegranates also give a delicious and beneficial juice. There is also an organic vegetable garden and we plan on having our own chicken and adding beehives. The idea it to create a fully inclusive organic farm, which will be able to cover most of the hotel’s needs in natural ways. Last October, during the Spetses mini Marathon event, fresh aloe juice was added to the breakfast buffet and the guests and athletes were enthralled by the idea. Just don’t be surprised if during your stay you are offered a cocktail or a special culinary creation with aloe. There are more possibilities than you can imagine!
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TREND
38. Poseidonion Spotlight
photo: Alexandros Ioannidis
ON THE SAFE SIDE While aloe vera is generally safe to use, some conditions require careful consideration. Drinking aloe vera juice can affect diabetics and patients taking anti-coagulants, drugs for high blood pressure, drugs that cause potassium loss, diuretics or steroids. It is strongly advised that they consult their doctor before consuming it.
Back in time A famous papyrus discovered in Thebes in 1858, which dates to the reign of the Pharaoh Amen-Hotep in 1552 BC, lists the use of aloe both in drugs and cosmetics, demonstrating the use of aloe vera over the preceding 2,000 years. Over the centuries, aloe vera has been known to many different cultures, from the Ancient Greeks and Romans, to the peoples of Babylonia, India and China.
Aloe vera is also contraindicated in pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, women with severe menstrual cramps, people with garlic and onion allergies and those with kidney problems. Some also advise that very small children should not be given aloe vera internally.
It was also well known to the ancient physicians, such as Hippocrates in AD 70-90 and the Greek physician, pharmacologist and botanist Dioscorides, who wrote one of the greatest medical books ever written - “De Materia Medica”, an encyclopedia that was widely read for more than 1,500 years. Christopher Columbus (1451-1506) once said: “Four vegetables are indispensable for the well being of man: wheat, grapes, olives and aloe. The fist nourishes him, the second raises his spirit, the third brings him harmony, the fourth cures him”. Another fervent advocate of aloe was Mahatma Gandhi (1869-1948), who drank aloe vera juice every day. In a letter to his biographer he wrote: “You ask me what were the secret forces which sustained me during my long fasts. Well, it was my unshakable faith in God, my simple and frugal lifestyle, and the aloe whose benefits I discovered upon my arrival in South Africa at the end of the 19th century.”
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TAKE ME THERE
We asked TWO seasoned travelers to predict the travel trends in 2013 Here is what they came up with. Edward gabbai director boutique hotel awards
1. What are the travel trends in 2013? 2. What is on your travel wish list for 2013?
1. I expect to see more travel providers striving to deliver bespoke, highly individualised travel services. This will be driven by the increasingly ubiquitous use of information technologies for travel information and bookings, together with customer demands for a personalised service and hassle free travel. Secondly, with the vast increases in choice of destinations, we can expect to see an increase in ‘multiple experiences’, where travellers combine multiple destinations, restaurants, and leisure activities into a single trip. Thirdly, we expect to see more holidaymakers looking to create meaningful experiences by buying into and investing in travel-related organisations, which give them an emotional return from supporting and contributing to local causes, rather than a purely financial return. For me this is the most important and exciting trend on the horizon.
3. What is not to be missed at the Poseidonion Grand Hotel?
Laurie Werner
Laurie Werner A travel afficionado and journalist for the acclaimed Forbes. 1. Off the beaten track and authentic instead of just classic luxury. People want to go below the surface of a place and have the experience that none of their friends have had yet.Volunteering too - sophisticated travelers want to be able to do some good while they’re having their authentic adventures. And culinary travel - some people have always traveled to eat. Now more are going to gastronomic locations or arranging trips around the culinary experience. 2. Myanmar, definitely. From what I’ve heard, so many people want to go there now that the door has opened politically that available hotels are booked up months ahead. So I might do a river cruise - several new boats are coming on line - with land excursions. Also Vietnam, Cambodia, Barcelona, Uganda to see the gorillas, the Italian region of Puglia. 3. Everything! Staying there is an experience that’s both elegant and relaxed.You can feel the history in the walls and see the exclusive pedigree but it’s not stuffy. The views are really beautiful from the terrace and the food is exceptional, adventurous without being crazy. 40. Poseidonion Spotlight
Edward Gabbai
2. I learnt to surf in the bleak grey waters of the UK channels and haven’t yet explored some of the world’s most renowned and beautiful surfing locations. I’d love the chance to spend time on the beaches of Samoa, though it’s just about the farthest spot on the globe from London. Perhaps a trip along the coasts of Costa Rica as a plan B. My second wish would be to go the Rio Carnival. Each summer in London we have the Notting Hill Carnival. Whilst it’s a fantastically exuberant and colourful homage to its counterpart in Brazil, there’s nothing quite like the real thing. 3. Dinner “On the Verandah” was the highlight for me. Enjoying the Mediterranean breeze and soaking in the atmosphere alongside food of such high quality, is a treat not to be found anywhere else and is surely not to be missed. Take a minute to pour through the hotel’s century-old guest books. And perhaps try playing the role of a 1920s man or women of leisure, enjoying expertly-made cocktails at the Poseidonion’s Library Bar. Be sure to sample each of the homemade jams at breakfast too!
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SUITE TALK
Master of pampering Georgios C. Carabellas trotts the globe in quest of best room ever, present company excluded of course! It was snowing in London. Something that doesn’t occur that often. As I was stepping inside my destination, I quickly glimpsed at the magically enchanted forest that Hyde Park was at the background, thinking how the climate changed dramatically over the past years, greenhouse effect and all. Don’t get me wrong. I love snow. And I like change. When it’s good. This is what I am going to talk to you about. In the heart of Mayfair, set back from Park Lane and just steps away from Hyde Park and Knightsbridge, Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane re-opened in January 2011 after an extensive two year, £125 million transformation, capturing a unique sense of place. Internationally acclaimed designer Pierre-Yves Rochon, renowned for his work on Four Seasons hotels in Paris and Florence, created a classic yet contemporary look for the re-designed hotel. Inspired by the architecture of the building’s comparison to a ship, with its bow pointing up Park Lane and its rooftop capped in zinc, Rochon’s design concepts use elements from different eras in time to evolve the look and the feel of an English country house. The only thing missing are the hounds! To this effect the interiors are filled with an exquisite, eclectic collection of artworks and antiquities, some especially commissioned for the opening of the hotel, all of which set an elegant backdrop to the hotel’s public and private spaces. And personally, being a discerning traveller par excellence, and a bit of a nagger, some might say, I put a lot of importance to the look and feel that lobbies, loos, corridors etc have. All ’s well in that department. Rooms. Equally important. 193 of those, all furnished in residential modern style, most of them with fireplaces, overlooking Hyde Park and another little/grand prerequisite of mine. Big closet space! I mean, I don’t know when and where hoteliers of the world got together and decided that 3 hangers and 2 drawers can cover the ensembles of a couple out in a town like London for 4 days! All ‘s well here, too! Thank you, guys!
42. Poseidonion Spotlight
Interiors and the view from the Four Seasons Hotel London, at Park Lane
Not bad at all for the hotel’s main resto, Amaranto, with its own street entrance on Hamilton Place, uniquely designed to flow seamlessly from restaurant to lounge to bar, feat. a sun-filled conservatory, a landscaped garden for outdoor dining and a private dining room with seating for up to 8 guests. The sine qua non Afternoon Tea is served daily in the atrium lounge. Scone, anyone? But the crowning glory, the piece de resistance, the hip place to be and all that at Four Seasons is the spectacular rooftop storey. Created by designer Eric Parry and envisioned as the most dazzling urban spa in the United Kingdom, the 10th floor is dedicated, in its entirety, to the 1.150 meter Spa, which includes a lounge, a cutting edge fitness centre and viewing terrace – all with 360 degree views over the city. Sleek, contemporary and walled in glass, my kind of place, The Spa is A destination in itself. Where guests can come and enjoy a light lunch or even have a private function. Nice!
Pampering is my middle name. Or as Kathleen Taylor, President and CEO of Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts very well puts it. “It was here in London that Four Seasons employees began living by the golden rule of ‘’treat others as you would be treated yourself. This philosophy remains at the heart of what we do around the world every day.” No arguing there. I know from personal experience, although not a big fan of chains of any sort, that Four Seasons is dedicated to perfecting the travel experience through continual innovation and the highest standards of hospitality. From elegant surroundings of the finest quality, to caring, highly personalised 24-hour service, Four Seasons embodies a true home away from home for those who know and appreciate the best. That’s me, thank you very much! www.fourseasons.com/london
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Spetses Short Story
Between December 2012 and January 2013, we ran a short story competition in collaboration with Eleytheroudakis bookstores. More than 40 entries took place and among them a jury committee selected the top three. Over 12.000 Facebook fans voted and selected Ioannis Vlontakis’ story as the winning one. We hope you enjoy it.
“Well rooted words” by Ioannis Vlontakis
I have been standing here for the past hundred years. On the same post, gazing at the sea, with the tormented Ostria bringing huge waves, eager to swallow every inch of land, right at my face, and the overwhelming light breeze caressing me with its thin puff.
been locked into my arms. Kings, princes, prime ministers have passed by me... So many passionate loves took place behind closed doors, but with the curtains open right before my prying eyes! Beautiful love whispers on hot evenings under the stars.
I remember coming here for the first time, after a long and tiring journey that I am trying to forget... It was the winter of 1912, when I was first brought to Isola Di Spesia. I have never been anywhere else in my entire life and I certainly don’t want to now that I am old. I have lived a solid and ascetic life here. I remember being young and unable to see over the old stone fence, long before they brought the elaborate carved iron rails. At dusk I could see Mrs Leni, the painter, walking on the pier, dressed in a black monastery like tunic, murmuring incomprehensible words. People were saying she had gone mad, that she was insane. As for me, I was daunted by her ascetic countenance at the time, although she would always come by and talk to me, saying how tall I would get.
Sadly enough I remember, however, the summer of 1944. While the cicadas of the island were boldly making sounds on me, I saw a group of seven-eight people getting in line in front of me. Soldiers holding guns were aiming at them. Some cracked, kneeled, begged. Some spitted on the ground and stood tall. I took a bullet too... It’s still in me, relic of a rough period.
I was growing up and getting taller, while people were laboring around me. The best craftsmen had come from all over Greece. Carpenters, blacksmiths, builders, joiners! The best materials were given to them and magically enough they brought them to life. Marvelous carved railings of Dionyssus marble, walls covered in sand brought by Santorini, expensive, elegant materials quite like the ones the hotels of cosmopolitan French Riviera are made of. I kept growing up... Mr Nikos the gardener looked after me. I was like a son to him! I had got so tall that I could see and hear a lot. The secrets of Athens’ social life have
44. Poseidonion Spotlight
Little by little time was weighing on the place in which I lived. The doors started to squeak and the wind was rambling undisturbed in the belle époque rooms. Up until one day, when I gladly saw people coming again, craftsmen from all over the world, materials... The manor where I live is once again full of the smell of wood and fresh paint. My hotel got back its glare. People come and go and they don’ t need to be kings or princes, since during their stay here they live, as they say, like kings... How do I know it? You know... I eavesdrop... Then again, you, people, are careless! I can’ t wait to meet you! My name is Canary Island Date Palm, for those who don’t know me. The oldest palm tree in the hotel “Poseidonion Grand Hotel”. If you come, call me Fino!!! ... I am expecting you.
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private tour
46. Poseidonion Spotlight
La
cupola Enjoy a tour of the Cupola Suite favored by many newlyweds for the privacy and the romantic ambience. Perched high on the top of the Poseidonion Grand Hotel inside the imposing dome - La Cupola is a unique place to stay. The central attraction is undoubtedly the intricate wooden ceiling beams, resembling a traditional Greek caique - locally built in the Spetses shipyards. Natural light pours in through the glass skylight immersing the room in blush colors complemented by the neutral pallet of the decor. A private elevator leading to a spacious private terrace overlooking the picturesque Spetses town complete the storybook charm and delight honeymooners.
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private tour
The suite is built on two levels and features a loft like space, perfect for making a wish upon a falling star!
48. Poseidonion Spotlight
Enjoy breakfast on the private terrace of La Cupola
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private tour
The spacious seating room area gives on to the private terrace
50. Poseidonion Spotlight
Expert craftsmen re-created the skylight and impressive wooden roof- giving guests the impression of floating beneath the signature dome.
Main Characteristics Interior: 2 Different levels, 1 open plan style bedroom with a sitting area. Exterior: Private terrace
Architectural Renderings of La Cupola
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52. Poseidonion Spotlight
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Profile
54. Poseidonion Spotlight
The living room in which memorabilia for the family’s rich history is displayed.
Part of the fabric of Spetses You might see Demitrios Anargyros strolling around Spetses, or swimming long distances. He might be even sitting beside you on the Poseidonion Verandah, having his afternoon cigarette. He will, for sure, draw your attention. What you couldn’t have known is his family’s paramount role in the history of Spetses but also, in the island as you know it today! By Christos Daskalopoulos Photos Alexandros Ioannidis Spring 2013
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Profile
Demitrios Anargyros at the entrance of his estate. The marble plaque in front of estate
Demitrios Anargyros belongs to a line of ancestry that shaped the past, present and even maybe, future of the island of Spetses. His grandfather, great grand father and uncle were benefactors of Spetses and Greece. He was born in Athens and studied in Germany where he lived during his university years and subsequently as a public teacher of physical education. During those years, his heart stays rooted firmly in Spetses where he returns at every opportunity. His summer holidays on the island remain, his fondest memory. Tell us a little bit about yourself? I’ m Demitrios Anargyros. I am part of a bloodline of Greek benefactors, Anargyros Anargyros, Sotiros Anargyros and Demitris Anargyros who all gave their wealth for the country and the “cause” of the revolution of 1821 and the Balkan War. My ancestors donated everything they had to buy ships for the navy and airplanes for the air force. When the rebellion was over they where left with nothing! What you see today in Spetses exists mostly because of their efforts and their love towards the island. Why did you return from Germany to live in Spetses? Since I was 7 years old, I’ve spent all my summer holidays on the island. At the risk of blowing my own horn - it is the best island in the world! Spetses has an aura which is indescribable. Even though, I was not born here, this is my land, this is my life. The name Anargyros is not an easy name to carry... I respect the legacy. My ancestors gave up everything they had and I am the keeper of the name. My house if filled with mementos and paraphernalia of our family’s proud history such as the swords of the Greek Revolution of 1821 and many items from the Balkan Wars. Sotirios Anargyros was the benefactor of the island who built the renowned Anargyreios and Korgialeneios School as well as the historic Poseidonion Grand Hotel. He is also responsible for the lush
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vegetation of the island as he planted most of the trees which lead to the unique microclimate of the island which makes it a perfect destination all year long. This is the Anargyros legacy and I’m here to honor it. Honor is the ultimate value and I will not let anyone tarnish our name. Talking of values… Spetses as a whole is an island which respects values and honors tradition. Even in the old days, when the streets were made out of dirt, there was no electricity, and donkeys were the main means of transportation. During theses times of hardship, Spetses society was open and social. People would meet and talk about everyday issues and discuss solutions to the problems of everyday life. During the 1950s, affluent Athenians who came to vacation at the “Poseidonio” (as it was referred to then) hotel, created a vibrant social and political center on the island. They were the pioneers that eventually transformed Spetses into what you see today. Poseidonion Grand Hotel. What does it mean to you? The Poseidonion Grand Hotel is like a home to me. It was built by Sotiros Anargyros, my uncle, in 1914. He bought this plot to build this hotel and he also bought almost 50% of the rest of the island to save it from being built in an a haphazard an unstructured manner. Unfortunately, when the islanders learnt that the “rich” Sotirios Anargyros was buying land they doubled the prices for their plots and thus he couldn’t buy anymore! The Poseidonion Grand Hotel, was the playground of my youth and I’m very happy and hugely indebted to the Vordonis family who restored it and operate it with respect to its history and heritage. It was a truly proud moment for all of Spetses, which brought tears to my eyes, when the Poseidonion Grand Hotel re-opened its doors in 2009!
Portraits of the long line of Anargyros ancestors who fought valiantly and contributed hugely to the islands’ development
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Untimpressive ad tat. Ut num nulla faccum Τhe entrance flanked zzrilluptat by century dionold eum exero at nulluptat ad delit pratum palm trees and the signature Spetses ad dolutat adignim quisit ut prat. cobbled stone yard
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A Day At the Races Don your nautical gear and join the fun in the 3rd Spetses Classic Yacht Race which will be held between June 13th - 16th
First organized three years ago in 2011, the Spetses Classic Yacht Race gathers together classic boats, Aegean classic schooners (mostly known as caiques) and traditional lateens during the second week of June. Racers and sailing enthusiasts come from all over Greece and Europe to do battle in the picturesque straits of the Argosaronic Gulf. This race is unique in that spectators, gathering by the hundreds in the magnificent verandah of the Poseidonion Grand Hotel, binoculars in hand, to cheer the participants, witness the whole race from the shore. This year, the breathtaking J-Class Candida, which won last year’s off shore race will face competition from the equally magnificent “Shamrock” who will be joining the race for the first time. Also, the fearless Hellenic Sea Scouts, who participated in 2012 with their lateens will once again provide spectacular moments of sailing action throughout the Spetses straits. Gold Sponsor CHIVAS for the second year in a row supports the Spetses Classic Yacht Race and in the words of Christophe Lemari�, CEO of Pernod Ricard Hellas: “Through our presence we pay respect to team spirit, camaraderie and fair play as these are brought to life by the efforts of skippers and crews during the race; as well as to heritage and authenticity; values that Chivas Regal is committed to and supports over time”.
Race Organiser
Hospitality Organiser
the travel insider
62. Poseidonion Spotlight
The ruins of the ancient harbour of Kexries. The town was named after Kexrias who was the twin brother of Lehi, son of Peirini and Poseidon.
Athens to Spetses
An adventure not to be missed by Christos Daskalopoulos Photos Alexandros Ioannidis
The landing in Athens Eleftherios Venizelos Airport is perfect. The sun is shining and our travel experience is about to begin. We’re heading to the magnificent Poseidonion Grand Hotel on the picturesque Argosaronic island of Spetses and we are spoiled for choices on how to get there. We could either take a cab to the main port of Pireus and hop on a hydrofoil (a journey of approximately three hours) or we could opt for the rather expensive, but thrilling- helicopter ride - ensuring we arrive in under half and hour in true red carpet style. We decide however, on the more adventurous route and hire a VOLVO V40, tune in to our favorite Greek radio station (en leyko 97.2 FM) and embark on an adventure to discover the breathtaking scenery and many hidden gems of the rural Peloponnese. With the car at the gate of Eleftherios Venizelos airport, the first thing we do is follow Attiki odos (E94) towards Elefsina for the next 40 kilometers. Attiki odos is one of the newest highways of Athens and as we speed along we manage to catch a glimpse of the Olympic Stadium where the 2004 Athens Olympics were held.
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the travel insider
Eleusina Exiting Attiki Odos we follow E65, which is called the National Road (ethinki odos). We pass Eleusina where we stop over for a tour of the archeological site of the Sanctuary of Dimitra, also the place of the famous Eleusinian Mysteries where thousands of Initiates received a mystical experience. Revealing the Mysteries was considered an act of impiety punishable by death in Ancient Greece but thankfully we don’t have to worry about that now… Corinth Canal Bewitched by the experience, we continue towards “Isthmos”, the Corinth Canal that connects the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf in the Aegean Sea. The Corinth Canal was completed in 1893 and it is today mainly a tourist attraction and not a maritime wonder, as it is too narrow for modern vessels to cross. It too, has a rich history of …non completion, as it was first attempted by the tyrant Periander during 7th century BC. However, the project was abandoned and Periander instead constructed a simpler and less costly overland «maritime” passage, named Diolkos, a stone carriageway, along which ships could be towed from one side of the isthmus to the other.
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The magnificent scenery on route towards Spetses. If you feel like it take a dip in the crystal clear blue sea along the way!
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the travel insider
Three Roman rulers considered the idea but all suffered violent deaths; Emperor Nero was the first to actually attempt to construct the canal, personally breaking the ground with a pick-axe. He died shortly afterwards. Roman senator Herodes Atticus also considered digging a canal in the 2nd century AD, but did not manage to get a project underway. The Venetians also considered it in 1687 but likewise did not initiate a project. The idea of a Corinth Canal was revived after Greece gained formal independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1830. A French engineer who assessed the project found it too expensive for the newly independent country. The opening of the Suez Canal in 1869 revived the interest of a Corinth crossing. Prime Minister Zaimis authorised the construction and French entrepreneurs were put in charge but failed to carry out the project. Société Internationale du Canal Maritime de Corinthe was commissioned in 1881 to conclude the canal and operate it for the next 99 years. After eight years of work it ran out of money the company’s head went bankrupt, as did the company itself. Construction finally resumed in 1890 by a Greek company, and the canal was finally completed on 25 July 1893 as we were proudly informed by the local coffee merchant on the way “The Corinth canal in 2013 it celebrates 120 years of operation”
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The breathtaking view from the Didyma mountains, you can spot Spetses in the distance.
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the travel insider
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the travel insider
Αlong the way picturesque al fresco stalls sell numerous fresh fruits and vegetables as well as homemade preserves and olives. Check out the great Traheia cheese sold by Mr. Spyros and don’t forget to stop in Koliaki for a heavenly piece of spinach pie at the taverna “Vrisi tou Ntaveli”
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Straight to Spetses… or Not? After crossing the canal, we turn left on Isthmos-Epidavros road (10) following the signs to Epidavros and find ourselves on a secondary road winding through sleepy coastal towns with crystal clear waters. This winding road will take us straight to Costa a city on the mainland across Spetses. We opt not to choose the easy path and after a few kilometers divert towards city of Epidavros to visit the Asclepieion, the most celebrated healing center of the Classical world and, of course, a Unesco protected site, and one of the very few ancient theatres which are still active today. Ancient Theater - Epidavros We stand in awe and marvel at the amphiteatre which is surrounded by lush pine trees. The theatre is known for its exceptional acoustics, which allows almost perfect intelligibility of unamplified spoken word to all 15,000 spectators. The theater was designed by Polykleitos the Younger in 4th century BC. The original 34 rows were extended in Roman times by another 21 rows. A 2007 study concluded that the acoustic properties are the result of the advanced design as the rows of limestone seats filter out low-frequency sounds, such as the murmur of the crowd, and amplify high-frequency sounds from the stage.Yes! It took them so long! Koliaki On the road once again, we decided to stop for lunch in the tiny village of Koliaki at the quaint road side taverna “Vrisi tou Ntaveli”. This small village hosts some great family owned “tavernas” serving fantastic Greek dishes. They also sell local products such as cheese, homemade Spring 2013
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the travel insider
72. Poseidonion Spotlight
A fisherman tending to his nets. Sea taxis waiting at the port of Kosta to whizz us across to Spetses.
pasta and olive oil. We opt for succulent lamb “fricassee” with avgolemono sauce, stuffed cabbage leaves and a vegetarian dish of artichoke hearts cooked in a casserole with peas, carrots and dill. For dessert, small plates with traditional “sweet of the spoon” (stewed fruits with sugar and lemon juice) are served by the smiling daughters of the owner. Traheia Leaving Koliaki (and sleepy from too much food!) we stop at the next village of Traheia for a quick aromatic greek coffee and once again are treated to local produce such as thyme honey, rye rusks and bowls of steaming sweet trahana - something like porridge! To fortify us further for our journey ahead. “The twins” - Dydima Mountains The final leg of the journey passes through Didyma Mountains (meaning “twins”) which offer spectacular views of the valley below with olive trees and cypress trees. We stop time and time again for pictures and to marvel at the beautiful sunset. We also catch our first glimpse of Spetses island from across the mountains. Porto Heli Reaching Porto Heli we know we are closing in on our target. Porto Heli is a well-known seaside town, which is favored by many Athenians in the last years as a holiday destination and to build summer houses. Driving through the coastal route, we turn left into the port of Costa and are greeted by the red and white Sea-Taxis which will take us across to Spetses. The driver welcome us warmly and takes us across in less than 10 minutes to the jetty in front of the majestic Poseidonion Grand Hotel which dominates the main square. How wonderful!
Trip data The journey by car is approximately 180 km which usually takes approximately 2 hrs and 15 min
Car data Make: Volvo Model: V40 T3 (gasoline) Engine: 1.6 Turbocharged Length: 4.36m. Power: 150/5.700 rpm Torque: 240Nm/1600 rpm 0-100km/h: 8.8’ Top Speed: 210 km/h Consumption: 5.3l./100km CO2 emission: 124 gr/km Seats: 5 Info: also available as a diesel
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74. Poseidonion Spotlight
eat my words
Christophoros Peskias Award winning chef Christophoros Peskias, takes the helm in the “On the Verandah restaurant”, ensuring guests are given a unique opportunity to savour his signature recipes of traditional greek food with a “twist”. We caught him on a break from cooking and plied him for cooking tips.
By Marina Coutarelli, Photos Ioanna Roufopoulou
I look for inspiration to home cooking and tradition, trying to re-interpret and modernize it.
Christophoros Peskias grew up in Cyprus and spent most of his professional life in Athens, leaving for short stints with Ferran Adria in Spain and Marc Meneau and Joel Robuchon in France. When he returned to Athens ten years ago, to create the Michelin award winning “48”, his avant garde approach combined with classic Greek dishes, revolutionized modern Greek cuisine. “I look for inspiration to home cooking and tradition, trying to reinterpret and modernize it”. Recalling his childhood in Cyprus, he says “We all used to hunt rabbits back then and bring them home to our mothers to cook in a stew with plenty of fresh tomatoes and baby onions.” Such classic dishes form the basis of his cuisine but are served up with an adventurous twist. “I like to play”, he grins sheepishly, while devouring a new dish served at the On the Verandah restaurant: a plate of locally sourced tiny red shrimps from Koilada, grilled “a la plancha” - on a hot plate in front of guests. “The best food is made out of fresh, organic ingredients so that the flavors shine through”. For the On the Verandah restaurant he has transformed traditional Greek recipes, using locally sourced from nearby villages, such as Traheia and Koliaki, including cheeses, home made yoghurt and egg yolk pasta noodles. His favorite place in Spetses is the hotel’s organic vegetable garden, which offers a constant source of inspiration for the menus. “Enjoy a Mediterranean breakfast with rye rusks from Traheia, extra virgin olive oil and robust organic tomatoes- heavenly” Or try “traxanas, a local greek grain which you can make like porridge and add two spoonfuls of thyme honey”. Hungry Anyone?
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- Promotion -
76. Poseidonion Spotlight
- Promotion -
Spaghetti with burnt sage butter Founded in 1947, by visionary businessman Alexandros Kikizas, the Melissa pasta company, is a Greek food institution. Today, six decades later, the third generation of the Kikizas family manages one of the most important food companies in Greece and is active in more than thirty-five countries.
Ingredients (serves 4 people) 1 packet of Spaghetti (no 6) 150 gr butter ½ cup blanched almonds 1 bunch sage, leaves picked 1 tablespoon lemon juice (preferably from an organic lemon) Finely grated graviera from the area of Traheia Sea salt and cracked black pepper to serve
Method
In Spetses, Melissa, has taken the initiative to host the athletes pasta party for events of the island such as the Spetsathlon, to be held in April 2013 and the Spetses mini Marathon, to be held in October 2013 as well as providing generous gift baskets to volunteers. Exclusively for the first issue of Poseidonion Spotlight, Melissa, shares with us an easy pasta recipe which will be featured in their upcoming cook-book designed for the busy cook and based on Greek ingredients from small producers! Enjoy!
Cook the pasta in boiling salted water according to the packet instructions. Heat a frying pan over high head. Add the butter and sage and cook for 3-4 minutes until the sage is crispy and the butter just turns brown. Add the lemon juice, almonds and season with salt and pepper. Drain the spaghetti reserving 1/3 cup cooking liquid. Add the drained hot spaghetti and cooking liquid to the frying pan. Sprinkle with the graviera and serve immediately. www.melissa.gr http://www.facebook.com/Melissa.Kikizas
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Will You Marry Me? Edited by Irene Zournatzi
BACHELORETTE PARTY IDEAS It’s wedding season! Get ready for billowing white tulle, teary declarations of love, and best of all, bachelorette parties. If your BFF is tying the knot, send her off with these fun bachelorette party games and ideas.
Build a Book Buy a scrapbook with removable pages, and mail a page to all of the bachelorette’s girlfriends. Ask everyone to decorate one side with photos of herself and/or the bride, funny quotes and memories, a letter, mementos of their friendship, etc. On the other side, have them write out their favorite recipe. Wrap it up and give it to her during the party.
Dress the Part Come up with an easy, unique group outfit idea that reflects the bride’s personality and ties you all together. For instance, if you have a funny nickname for the bachelorette, design “I <3 [nickname here) tees for everyone to wear out. If she’s super into yoga, buy each of the girls a strand of yoga beads to put on that night.
Name That Lingerie! Ask guests to bring lingerie as a gift, and have the bride guess who gave her what as she unwraps them. Or each pitch in a certain amount to treat her to a luxurious underwear she might not ordinarily splurge on herself.
Poolside Party Plan a getaway in a nearby destination- book a luxurious hotel (try going on week-days where you are sure to get a better
rate), book a spa day for all the group and lounge in your bikinis at the pool to get a pre-wedding tan.
Quiz the Groom A week or two before the party, have everyone come up with a question about the bride for her fianc� to answer, and then email them all to him. Take turns reading her the questions, and having her guess his responses. If she answers wrong, she has to take a sip of her drink. When she gets it right, everyone else has to drink.
Take a Bow Buy a roll of bright ribbon and tie a bow around each guest’s wrist. Whenever the bachelorette wants a drink, she’ll untie someone’s bow, and they have to buy her a cocktail or shot of her choice.
Get Gourmet Hire a professional chef to prepare a mouthwatering dinner or attend a cooking class all together. Be sure to write down recipes to impress the future in-laws!
Beauty Secrets! The big day is approaching and many brides opt for quick and non invasive beauty procedures which can be performed in just one visit, literally, in no time at all. Procedures such as laser, botox, hyaluronic acid, mesotherapy, and many more nonsurgical techniques can help you look youthful and fabulous on your wedding day. As Dr. Theodosios E. Roussos MD, MPH (ENT Surgeon) explains, the following technique is proving very popular among brides: Mesotherapy A mixture of hyaluronic acid, amino acids, vitamins, and antioxidants are micro-injected painlessly into the skin stimulating the production of collagen and elastic, thus creating a smoother, more youthful look. Mesotherapy is also a way of eliminating cellulite by helping blood flow, which invigorates the skin preventing the onset of wrinkles and dimply appearance. 78. Poseidonion Spotlight
Fairy Bridal Dresses Fashion Designer, Melina Pispa, who specializes in bridal design, has drawn the attention of fashion aficionados as a result of her talent and unique creations. Her designs are characterized by their romantic and retro touch as well as their chic style. In the next few lines, she gives us some tips on the wedding day and on the importance of a truly impressive wedding dress.
A wedding smile that will last a lifetime! Your dress isn’t the only white accessory you should be showing off at your wedding. The smile, unfortunately, is usually overlooked by many brides but can definitely increase the quality of your photos and more importantly the emotional memory of your wedding day. This one item needs to be high on your list at least three months prior to your wedding day. Dr. Maria Anna Papadopoulou (www.dental-aesthetic.gr), specialized in cosmetic dentistry, suggests different services that might enhance a bride’s appearance, such as tooth whitening, tooth reshaping, cosmetic bonding, porcelain crowns and veneers.
1) What are the bridal trends for this summer? I strongly believe that the only trend is just one. A bride should feel magnificent and unique, in her dress. The bridal creation should make her feel happy and comfortable. 2) What style do you prefer when you design bridal dresses? I absolutely adore the style of ‘20’s and ‘30s and this is more than obvious in my designs. The head accessories though are equally important, in the total bridal look. They complete the bride’s style in a exquisite way. 3) What kind of fabrics do you mostly use? I only use high quality fabrics, in my collections. I really like Chantilly lace, silk organza and silk veiling. It is crucial for me to work only with high quality fabrics. I am very careful with the little details that are of high importance. 4) What are your suggestions to future brides? My advice to them is to enjoy the wedding preparations as much as they can, specially the wedding dress research. At the end of the day, this is what will make them feel special and beautiful. All women know our “strong features”. The wise thing to do is to accentuate these features in a wedding dress while minimizing any shortcomings. My goal is that every bride leaves my showroom with a big smile. So far I have accomplished it!
Teeth Whitening is a highly effective way of brightening the natural colour of your teeth by degrading tooth stains caused by certain foods and habits such as smoking, drinking coffee, tea or red wine. The results of professional whitening treatments are long lasting and can make teeth appear up to 6 shades lighter in just one hour. Porcelain Veneers can be a great option to cover flaws and blemishes especially if you have crooked or chipped teeth. These ultra-thin custom ceramic covers are bonded to the tooth’s front surface to create a naturally beautiful look. Dental contouring, also known as tooth reshaping can correct chipped, crooked, cracked or overlapping teeth in just one session by altering the length, shape or position of teeth.You’d be surprised at the difference a few millimetres of reduction or added laminate can make. You will be so grateful you took the time and care to assure that gorgeous smile illuminates the authentic you on your wedding day! Spring 2013
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The history and the symbolic importance of wedding crowns
Will You Marry Me? Model “Thymari” Handmade wedding crowns with dipped thyme, into silver and gold 925.
A great many of the traditions and rituals featured during the Greek Orthodox Wedding service have been handed down from ancient times. One of the most touching moments of the ceremony is when the best man/woman places crowns on the heads of the newlyweds tied together with an intricate knot and they follow the priest three times around the alter holding hands in their first dance as husband and wife. The weddings guests throw rice and rose petals to wish them well. This ritual, in fact, originates in ancient times when the bride would leave her parents’ property in a horse or ox- drawn carriage. She would sit between her father and brother, dressed in dresses of fine embroidery, as they proceeded towards the groom’s residence. The newlyweds would wear on their heads a variety of plants devoted to Aphrodite (the goddess of love and beauty) such as olive branches, vines leaves and lemon blossoms. In other parts of Greece, the crowns were created from asparagus - the reason being that asparagus is grown out of thorns and in bare soil- therefore the union would also develop beauty and be blessed with fertility.
Planning your wedding music • Choosing a band to perform live or a DJ is the first step towards arranging the music for your wedding. The next step is to plan the exact play list for the event. • Ask your DJ or the leader of your wedding band for advice on which songs to play. They should also be able to recommend songs that have been popular at other weddings and can also suggest songs for specific occasions during the reception such as cutting the cake and the introduction of the wedding party. • Determine any special moments within the ceremony or reception during which you would like a specific song played. Make a list of these song titles and be sure to explicitly tell the DJ or band when they should play them • Choose music from every era and genre (for example, 80s, latin etc) so that all the guests can join in. • Find out if your DJ or wedding band needs to provide any special equipment to play music at the wedding venue.
Online wedding and baptism A photographer - a journalist. Each had separate dreams of an online magazine. Over lunch one day, promises were made, plans were hatched and a joint project was created! Founded few months ago, gamosspecial.gr is an online magazine for Wedding and Baptism that champions the work of pioneers in weddings, baptisms, fashion and lifestyle design throughout Greece. The idea is to open up a new world of artistic and design-focused wedding and baptism events, at the click of a button. This digital publication is the go-to source for all things a wedding or a baptism should have. Flattering gowns, creative reception ideas, planning how-tos, DIY stories, color palettes, amazing flowers, inspiration boards, gorgeous hairstyles, etiquette advice, fun honeymoon spots. The site aims to help brides, grooms, god parents through the maze from the day of the proposal to the day of the last thank you note. The online magazine offers all encompassing style and inspiration, expert advice, tips and tricks, and an exclusive portfolio of industry suppliers. 80. Poseidonion Spotlight
LITTLE BOOK OF WEDDINGS by the Poseidonion Grand Hotel In a wonderfully romantic atmosphere at the Asian Spa Retreat in Filothei, the “Little Book of Weddings” was presented to over 40 members of the press as well as the top wedding and events organizers in Greece. Guests were treated to a surprise cooking class by renowned Christophoros Peskias who created impressive white chocolate truffles with pink peppercorns in under 10 minutes and watched a preview of our very own “A Wedding Day” video (now available on youtube on the Poseidonion Grand Hotel Channel). The CEO of the Poseidonion Grand Hotel, Antonis Vordonis was on hand to answer questions and the newly appointed General Manager Mr. Dimitris Vlachopanos, warmly welcomed the guests. The tranquil treatment rooms at the Asian Spa were open so that guests could witness the specially developed bridal treatments. Bespoke stationery was presented by Typecenter and florist Studio 7 created blushing spring bridal bouquets out of almond blossoms.
Specially Created Wedding Spa Treatments by the Asian Spa Honey Massage
Balinese Lulur Scrub
Deep Sea Delight
This... sweet treatment is the utmost relaxation spa experience. Honey contains large quantities of powerful antioxidants that help protect against free radicals. Blended with essential oils and essences, this aromatherapy massage reduces stress, nourishes and hydrates the skin.
Filled with organic products, this traditional bridal ritual treatment employs fragrant turmeric, sandalwood and rice powder infused with natural yogurt. Cool and refreshing, it helps the body’s immune defence system, leaving skin feeling incredibly silky and smooth.
This prestigious anti- ageing facial developed by Phytomer®, contains oxygenated water from deep sea sources that detoxifies and nourishes the skin. It works intensively on the face, neck,eyes, décolleté and hands, restoring in depth the freshness and brightness of the skin. Spring 2013
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TOP FORM
84. Poseidonion Spotlight
It’s time to indulge
Joining Poseidonion Grand Hotel in its pursuit of 5 Star excellence, the “Asian Spa Ayurvedic & City Retreat” group offers a range of treatments which infuse Eastern and Western practices with the aura of Spetses, by Paris Kormaris You might have already heard that the Poseidonion Grand Hotel was the first hotel in Greece to offer its guests spa services nine decades ago. Now that the glory of its past has met with the requirements of a new century, it has entrusted the task to “Asian Spa Resorts”, part of the “Asian Spa Ayurvedic & City Retreat” group, which is swiftly gaining a reputation as the most prestigious spa operator in Greece. It is the fruit of the partnership between Aliki Vatidi (a Greek entrepreneur with many years of experience in the fields of tourism and hospitality) and Ratheesh Raj (a highly skilled Ayurvedic specialist trained in Kerala, southern India, the birthplace of Ayurveda), with a philosophy that combines Eastern therapies with modern Western techniques.
The Asian Spa Resort at the Poseidonion Grand Hotel
One can’t fail to notice that even some of the standard treatments offered at Poseidonion Grand Hotel have been somehow infused with the aura of Spetses. Take for example the “Bouboulina” (Sports) massage, named after the renowned heroine of the Greek Revolution against the Turks in the 1820s, whose mansion on the island has been turned into a museum. Of course, it’s more than a matter of names. The basic scent in the “Soothing Spetses” massage is that of throubi (a.k.a. savory), a locally sourced herb which is also incorporated in the “Truly Throubi” scrub and the “Poseidia’s Pearls” facial.
“To many guests, Ayurveda may be an unknown concept”, says Florence Tokatlian, the group’s Marketing Manager. “The word Ayurveda is made from two Sanskrit roots: Ayur, which means life, and Veda, meaning knowledge or science”. The term Ayurveda means the knowledge or science of life. It is a holistic system of medicine that believes in detecting and removing or predicting and preventing imbalances. It can be regarded as the most comprehensive and complete approach to healthy living, since it incorporates physical, social, psychological, spiritual and philosophical facets of life in its ambit. Ayurveda addresses ill health at any stage, resulting from various causes including poor diet and lifestyle. It believes that lifespan and quality of life are greatly affected by lifestyle. Ayurveda focuses on measures to promote good health, preventing and when necessary treating ill health. This is achieved by developing and utilizing individualized treatments and offering lifestyle recommendations.
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Spot the spot
In each issue correctly identify the exact spot where the photo was taken and enter into a competition to win a dinner for two at the the award winning On the Verandah Restaurant Correct answers should be either given to the concierge- along with a name and email address or sent by email to poseidonion@clab.gr. Winners will be notified by email on the circulation day of the next Poseidonion Spotlight issue.
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Anniversary Dilemma My wife and I spent a wonderful 48 hours at your hotel in 1973 - a few short months after we were married. I would like to surprise her with a romantic week-end for our 40th wedding anniversary - which room would you recommend? James Maddon, Bath, (via email)
ask the experts
Send your emails to poseidonionspotlight@clab.gr or by dm@poseidonion
How romantic! If you would like a room in the historic building we recommend a Tower room in front of the Poseidonion Square for breathtaking views and romantic sunsets. Also, why not surprise your wife with a private boat tour of the island on a traditional caique to swim in the secluded bays and crystal clear Spetses waters. Finally, a horse-drawn carriage ride at sunset followed by a candlelight dinner at the On the Verandah restaurant is a must!
A Tower room in the historic building with magnificent views across the Argosaronic Gulf. On a clear day you can see the nearby island of Hydra and the small uninhabited island of Trikeri.
Last Word
How Travel Savvy Are You? 01
02
Which of the following hotels was not featured in a James Bond movie? a) Ciragan Palace, Istanbul b) Icehotel, Iceland c) Hotel Splendid, Montenegro d) Metropol Hotel, Moscow
Which island of the Argosaronic Gulf inspired renowned song-writer Leonard Cohen to write “so long Marianne?” a) Spetses b) Hydra c) Aigina d) Poros
05
a) Harry’s Bar,Venice b) American Bar at the Savoy, London c) Wild Rose, Athens d) King Cole Bar, New York
In which country are you if you are eating a hot dog made of boerewors? a) Argentina b) Spain c) South Africa e) Tunisia
04
How long does the journey from Dover to Calais take by skydiving? a) 6 minutes, 22 seconds b) 10 minutes 13 seconds c) 3 minutes, 02 seconds d) 15 minutes, 78 seconds
06
Which famous bar claim ownership of the first Bloody Mary coctail in 18th century?
08
03
Which famous star-studded coastal town hosts a classic yacht race each October? a) Nice b) Monaco c) St. Tropez d) Portofino
07
Which is the perfect hotel in Istanbul for viewing the dome of Hagia Sofia and the Topkapi? a) Swissotel The Bosphorus Istanbul b) The Four Seasons Sultanahmet, especially from its fourth- floor terrace c) Elite World Istanbul Hotel d) Grand Hyatt Instanbul
Which secret do La Mamounia in Marrakesh and the Hotel Costes in Paris share? a)The French guru of the interior design, Jacques Garcia, who created the original sexy-naughty- fashionista ambiance of the Costes in Paris, is also responsible for the highly succesful Mamounia makeover. b) Both their fragrances are designed under the artistic direction of Rami Mekdachi in collaboration with perfumer Olivia Giacobetti. c) Same management team. d) Both have released compilation lounge music CDs, which contains music played and mixed within by DJ Stéphane Pompougnac.
1d • 2b • 3c • 4a • 5d • 6c • 7b • 8a
90. Poseidonion Spotlight
Spring 2013
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