Greece This
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ISSUE 152
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Greece this month In this issue: PM’s landmark visit to China Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum Commemoration of Battle of Crete The Athens Riviera C.P. Kavafy: Complete Poems Translated EMBASSSY OF GREECE Press & Communications Office 1A Holland Park, London W11 3TP Tel.: 020 77273071, Fax: 020 77278960 pressoffice@greekembassy.org.uk
PM’s landmark visit to China Prime Minister Antonis Samaras wrapped up a five-day official visit to China, on May 19. On the last stop of his visit, Samaras told a Hellenic-Chinese business forum in Shanghai that Greece is "steadily developing into a success story," noting that the fears of a "Grexit" are now becoming the certainty of a "Greekovery". He added that Greece can easily become a major gateway of China to the European hinterland. On the second day of his visit (May 16) Samaras met with the Chinese premier, Li Keqiang with whom he discussed GreekChinese relations, identifying economic cooperation as the basis for formulating a long-term strategic relationship while on May 17, the PM had a meeting Chinese President Xi Jinping, after which a joint communiqué, covering everything from trade to cultural and diplomatic relations, was issued. The two leaders expressed a desire to explore greater cooperation, saying that this "serves the fundamental interests of both countries and peoples." During the visit a number of protocols and cooperation agreements were signed, including a memorandum between the Hellenic Republic Assets Development Fund (HRADF) and the China Development Bank
on promoting the participation of Chinese companies in the sell-off of state property; A memorandum between the Invest in Greece agency and China Development Bank on promoting economic cooperation in tourism, real estate, telecommunications, energy and finance investments. A memorandum of under-standing with the Chinese companies Huawei and ZTE, was also signed by Development minister Kostis Hatzidakis. Huawei, a multinational networking and telecommunications giant, will undertake to establish a transit hub for goods in Greece in the next three years and a research & innovation centre in cooperation with top Greek research
centres and technology companies while ZTE, the world's fourth-largest mobile phone manufacturer and the fifth-largest telecoms equipment maker, will establish a transit and logistics hub at Piraeus port.
The visit to China also provided an opportunity for more than 450 meetings between Greek and Chinese business people in Beijing and Shanghai, according to a Development ministry announcement. These meetings indicate strong Chinese interest in infrastructure projects, privatisations, real estate and cooperation in the financial sector.
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Posidonia sea tourism forum
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Referring to the new act on recreational vessels, the minister spoke of a single institutional framework to benefit many more stakeholders; of eliminating discrimination based on vessel chartering criteria, which in the past has been arbitrary; of flexible chartering procedures; and of change to the criterion of professionalism.“Marine tourism is an activity in the global market which has shown resistance to the international crisis and demonstrates excellent prospects," the minister said.
Pireaus Port: Moving Forward
The Second Posidonia Sea Tourism Forum took place at the Athens Concert Hall (Megaron), focusing this year on Greece as a preferred East Mediterranean cruise hub. In his opening speech at the two-day forum, Shipping and the Aegean Minister Costis Moussouroulis said that Greece wanted to develop cruise ship Posidonia sea tourism forum took place in Athens tourism in 30 of its 57 basic ports, but this required a policy that did not load all responsibility onto the port of Piraeus alone; better management of ports; and faster adaptation to technological advances in terms of ship size.. Greece has aligned itself to international safety standards, it applies the system of predetermined date and servicing of ships and has simplified the processes to provide supportive projects at the ports, Moussouroulis said. Museums and archaeological sites will be open from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., while a fast-response group of Culture Ministry and local officials will be able to intervene where necessary.
Arrivals and transit passage of tourists at Piraeus Port have increased by 24,69% in the first quarter of 2013, while the country’s major port will acquire two new passenger stations by the end of the year. According to data presented by Piraeus Port Organisation Chief, George Anomeritis, on May 15, the number of home porting passengers rose by 22.05% compared to the first quarter of 2012, reaching 8,120 passengers, while transit passengers have increased by 24,94%, amounting to a total of 88,948. Anomeritis also announced that by the end of the year, Pireaus passengers served by three stations: the second, 60,800 square feet station will be inaugurated on May 27, while a third station measuring 37,680 square feet will be ready by the end of 2013.
In addition, the ministries of Culture, Development and Tourism are jointly trying to help improve the image of tourism enterprises on the islands - either by external improvements on buildings or by the use of new technologies. The 80-million-euro programme provides loans from 10,000 to 30,000 euros, with a long-term repayment period, while for investments on islands with fewer than 3,000 residents the interest rate will be zero.
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The Battle of Crete commemorative events
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The Battle of Crete commemorative events took place from May 19 to 26 at the city of Chania. The 72nd anniversary of the World War II battle that had Greek, British, Australian and New Zealand forces fighting off German and Italian paratroopers and land forces included a variety of events, organized by regional authorities.
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Kudos for Greek Press Attaché
The Vice-regional Governor of Crete, Mr. Apostolos Voulgarakis stressed in his message that the present of this Land calls on us, more than ever, to keep our Memory alive. It is not only the important position held by the people of Crete in the international developments, their heroism, the fraternization of the peoples, which were set off by the Battle of Crete and led us to devote time and space in our mind and heart, time and space, by being once again present at this year’s Commemorative Events that we are organizing. It is keeping our past alive in the present that is more than ever an absolute necessity. A present that also needs Unconquerable Souls and Love for our Country, a present that needs “Virtue and Bravery,” if we want to live it, and make plans for the future.
Thessaloniki Book Fair: More Books, More Ideas Thessaloniki’s International Book Fair celebrated its 10th season and opened its doors to visitors from May 16 to 19, hosting more than 200 publishing houses from 18 countries. The United Kingdom was this year’s honoured country, and some of its most popular writers had been present to discuss their works: Jonathan Coe, David Nicolls, Andrew Crumey, Michael Arditti, Victoria Hislop, poet David Harsent, and teen fiction novelist Celia Rees, along with many others. A total of 130 Greek and foreign writers, including the renowned Israeli writer Amos Oz, participated in the events. The fair also hosted a special thematic exhibition on C.P.Cavafy, celebrating the 2013 Cavafy Year, the 2nd Balkan Poetry festival, a dedicated children and teenagers’ corner, as well as a series of parallel events.
The Head of the Greek Press Office in London, Spyros Diamantis, was awarded with the 2013 prize of Diplomat Awards for Outstanding Contribution to the Press Corps among his peers serving in the UK’s capital, an event sponsored by Diplomat Magazine. Almost all foreign diplomats who serve in the city, representatives of the British Foreign Ministry and journalists from all around the world attended the ceremony. More than 100 diplomats who served in recent years were candidates; only 10 were distinguished in the respective number of categories. Diamantis, who is also serving as Vice President of the Diplomatic Press Attachés’ Association of London (DPAAL) noted: "I feel great honour for the prize I was awarded. It is an extreme satisfaction, particularly at an important post that London is and during a particularly difficult but extremely interesting conjuncture."
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` You don't need to get on a ferry to escape the bustle of the Greek capital: take a short bus ride and you'll find superb local beaches along the sheltered Saronic Gulf stretching from the southern suburbs of Athens to the southernmost point of Attica, Cape Sounio. Just 10 miles south of the city –typically a 30-40 minute drive– you will find a place where urban sprawl gives way
to an idyllic palm fringed setting. Take the opportunity to swim, relax at a waterfront café, walk along the picture-perfect pedestrian streets and the marinas, exercise your favourite water sport, shop in one of the area’s modern shopping centres, dine by the sea or entertain yourself in one of the coastal avenue’s buzzing clubs –the young people’s favourite choice– that have actually brought a touch of Mykonos in
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The Athens Riviera town! Summer in the city doesn’t sound that bad after all, does it?! Fáliro, Flisvos Marina Located very close to Athens, yet away from the hustle and the bustle of the city, a wide range of activities on offer and an amazing view to the Saronic Gulf are the reasons why Fáliro is the ultimate summer hot spot for the Athenians! Its trademark is of course its marina, a megayacht destination that infuses a cosmopolitan flair to the area. Flisvos Park on the other hand is ideal for leisurely strolls and carefree bike rides. Beautiful coasts, recreation parks, playgrounds, shopping centers and stylish restaurants are there to keep up your summer carefree mood! Extra Tip: Every Wednesday to Saturday evening you can ride a bike at no cost for 1.5 hours borrowing it from a specially created kiosk located between the
tram stations “Flisvos Park” and “Flisvos”. Free bicycles are available from 5:30 to 8:30 PM from Wednesday to Saturday every week until September 30th. Happy riding!
• Glyfáda: one of the most elegant districts of Athens, Glyfáda stands out for its sandy palm-fringed beaches, its cosmopolitan clubs (where the pulse of the Athens nightlife beats), its polished hotels, boutiques and restaurants as well as its marinas, a much preferred yachtmooring place for a getaway! Swim in crystal clear waters or enjoy a frappé, a favourite immensely refreshing coffee drink! The
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authentic frappé is made with Nescafé, and is drunk through a straw! Extra tip: if you are a golf enthusiast you will be thrilled with the Glyfáda Golf Club, the city’s modern 18hole course!
Voúla: just two miles south of Glyfada lies Voúla, home to two amazing organized beaches and the Riviera’s biggest beach clubs. Enjoy during the day a colourful summer setting that brings to mind a real amusement park with modern beach bars, jet ski equipment, beach volleyball courts, a vibrant dance deck and exciting waterslides, whereas at night you can enjoy a cocktail in one of the district’s elegant clubs! Extra tip: Voúla A’ beach has been awarded a blue flag this year, which makes it ideal (and safe!) for families as well. On Voula B’ beach disabled people can also enjoy a swim thanks to the special infrastructure that has been installed on the beach.
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• Vouliagméni: To the east lies Vouliagméni bay, its beach nestling in a beautiful location, before Mount Hymettus. A marina and a brace of private beaches are its trademarks whereas the picturesque harbour offers stunning views of the distant Saronic Gulf islands. Astir beach on Apóllonos Street with its shallow, delicately turquoise water, smooth sand, excellent facilities and blue flag certification for cleanliness is one of Attica’s most luxurious and most popular beaches. Opposite Astir beach lies the public beach, which has no facilities and therefore no entry fee. If we add the bustling nightlife, the elegant cafes and restaurants and the luxurious hotels, Vouliagméni is definitely a summer hotspot that you cannot afford to miss!
Extra Tip: Vouliagméni Lake, only a five-minute walk from the little square in the centre of the town, lies “sunk” Vouliagméni meaning sunk) in the remains of a huge limestone cave fed by lukewarm springs welling from underground. The
lake’s mineral and brackish waters feel absolutely silky while swimming whereas it is reportedly healing for rheumatism and arthritis!
Várkiza: Beyond Vouliagméni lies the bustling little resort of Várkiza, where an outstanding seascape unfolds with impressive coves below the coastal road. You will have the chance to swim in free or organized beaches with azure waters, to exercise your favourite water sports or enjoy a delicious meal in a picturesque tavern by the sea while sipping a glass of ouzo which perfectly complements fresh seafood! The coastal road continues through marvellous tourist resorts such as Lagonissi and Saronida and ends at Cape Sounio, Attica’s southeastern tip. There you will find the impressive Temple of Poseidon – the last piece of the ancient Athenians’ homeland every time they sailed into the Aegean. Watching the sunset filling the sky with every shade of mauve and pink and making the sea glowing like a sapphire is an unforgettable experience that will weave a powerful spell over you.
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CP Cavafy, Complete poems translated by Daniel Mendelsohn Like the hero of a magical tale, Constantine Petrou Cavafy was the youngest of seven sons. Like Shakespeare, he died on his birthday. He was born on April 29, 1863 and died on April 29, 1933, so this year sees both the 150th anniversary of his birth and the 80th of his death. The Greek culture ministry has designated 2013 the Year of Constantine Cavafy.
Kastelorizo, Greece as it should be
If you think you know nothing of Cavafy’s work, you will find that you do; two of his poems have become familiar moral touchstones. In Ithaca he values the journey over the arrival: “As you set out on the way to Ithaca/ hope that the road is a long one.” And in Waiting for the Barbarians he satirises those who blame others for the disruption of an ordered life: “And now what’s to become of us without barbarians/ Those people were a solution of a sort.” Cavafy himself led a quiet life. First with his mother, and then alone in the Rue Lepsius in Alexandria, the city of his birth. His apartment was cluttered with relics of past glory, from his own life and that of his nation. His father’s family was scattered all over Europe and the East. His mother was the daughter of a diamond merchant and counted a prince and an archbishop among her relatives.
My top tip for summer 2013 is the tiny Greek island of Kastellorizo, in the south-east Aegean. It's one of the smallest and most remote of Greece's islands – just two miles across, and reached by a tiny plane (or threehour ferry) from Rhodes, 80 miles away. That's probably why it's not on many people's radars.
The young Cavafy lived in Paris and London, Liverpool and Constantinople. He spoke many languages. He was steeped in the classics of Ancient Greece. Insofar as we can know, he loved men and boys: the story goes that he once spent a night washing up in a café to save the job of the boy whose work it really was. These few facts gave him the subjects of his poems: he writes about modernday Alexandria and about the heroes of the Iliad, about poetry and art, about beauty and desire. There is a glamour surrounding Cavafy; living on the margins of Greek culture in an Egyptian city, focused on the calling of his work. In an early poem, As Much As You Can, he writes: “And even if you cannot make your life the way you want it,/ this much, at least, try to do/ as much as you can: don’t cheapen it/ with too much intercourse with society,/ with too much movement and conversation.” During his lifetime, Cavafy did not publish his work in conventional “collected” editions, preferring instead to print pamphlets for distribution among friends and seeing all his writing “in progress”. But Cavafy is a poet for our time and he needs this monument. Daniel Mendelsohn’s magisterial edition includes all the extant work, down to the late “unfinished poems” and other fragmentary sketches. His translations are plain, but his scholarship is exemplary. He explains, for instance, how Cavafy uses two Greek languages, one demotic and one elevated, “like the talk of a fluent and charming raconteur ... that is sprinkled with locutions from the King James Bible”. He expatiates on the wit of Cavafy’s rhymes. He points up Cavafy’s use of enjambment — the running on of the thought to the next line — and I am reminded that this is a technique used by Sappho.
There's only one village, Megisti, a pictureperfect horseshoe harbour fronted by pastelpainted houses and bobbing boats, home to the island's 300 inhabitants and, in the brief two-month tourist season, a similar number of adventurous visitors. Paths lead around the coast or up to a hilltop monastery. Don't expect sandy beaches, do expect iridescent turquoise seas (especially in the Blue Grotto sea cave), fresh seafood, and a laid-back, unhurried lifestyle that would seduce even the nerviest banker into blissful lethargy. This is Greece as it should be, not as the papers paint it. Michael Cullen, editor-in-chief, i-escape (The Guardian)
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