THE CITY MAGAZINE OF
February 2014 Year 13. Issue 113 €4.50 ISSN 1790-3114
insider athens
| February 2014
ATHENS
Positive outlook Interviews with: Kuwaiti Ambassador, Raed Al-Rifai and Thessaloniki Mayor Yiannis Boutaris / Global economic outlook by Calamos Investments Plus: Thermal spas in Edipsos / Luxurious retreats in Metsovo / Alternative health highs / Snow motion / Apivita’s experience store / Food for love PLUS: ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT, FOOD & WINE, NIGHTLIFE, SHOPPING, NOVELTIES, MAPS AND MORE
Moments of Romance ... Treat your Valentine to unforgettable culinary moments with a choice of authentic Mediterranean cuisine or exotic Polynesian flavors. Indulge yourself to an overnight stay in one of our luxurious rooms and wake up to α sumptuous breakfast in bed the following morning. February 14th, 2014 Zephyros – Mediterranean Delights Dinner Buffet €36 per person including a welcome cocktail & live entertainment. For reservations call: 210 930 0060 Polynesian Restaurant – Exotic Passion 5 Course Dinner €69 per person including a welcome cocktail & live entertainment. For reservations call: 210 930 0074 Special Valentines Day room offer for 2 persons including breakfast in bed the following morning €79 • Room supplement of € 99 for additional nights including buffet breakfast in Zephyros Restaurant • Available for a limited number of rooms • All prices include taxes and VAT
For Room reservations call 800 11 93333 Athens Ledra Hotel 115, Syngrou Avenue 117 45 Athens Greece Tel: 210 9300000, Fax: 210 9358603 Website: www.athensledrahotel.com
In what is a clear departure from the mood and trends from our recent past, the elusive light at the end of the tunnel is finally in sight. The business community is more buoyant, there has been a modest spurt in the job market and even, for a small, independent publishing house such as ours, the future seems less bleak.
Sudha Nair-Iliades
publisher’s note Not that it is blindingly bright, but, at least, less bleak. Calamos Investments, based in Chicago, shares its global economic outlook for 2014 in this issue and the phrase they prefer to use is ‘guarded optimism.’ So it is with guarded optimism that we enter this year – albeit with a flurry of new projects up our sleeve. Too soon to announce yet but, some fairly interesting times lie ahead. The thing with interesting times is that it translates as little time to heed the advice of our wellness experts in this issue – of slowing down and taking a few deep breaths. The cruellest part of this job is that we’re the first to know about the latest play in town and to wax away on the best weekend getaways and never really have the time to experience it. As if on cue, the red light on my blackberry blinks, like some silent but persistent nag reminding me incessantly of chores undone and emails unanswered, while enticing images of luxurious retreats dance in front of my eyes. So while the Chinese curse, ‘May you live in interesting times’ might well apply to the frenziedno-sleep zone that our little office has become, my banal wish for Greece is that 2014 be a boring, eventless year. No more social turmoils, political instability, ulcers and aneurysms – we’ve had our fair share and we deserve some ennui and predictability. Here’s to positive times!
Sudha Nair-Iliades
Publisher - Editor Sudha Nair - Iliades Art Director Eliza Mouzenidou
Contributors in this Issue Richard Mullane, Michael Sweet, Graham Wood
Administrative Executive Despina Tzereme
Founder
Photos Kostas Bekas, Christos Drazos, Photoharrie
Legal Counsel
Web Design www.studiozip.com
and Printing
Steve Pantazopoulos
Christos Christopoulos Prepress, Montage Grafima
Distribution Hellenic Distribution Agency Subscriptions * Athens Insider published in English in Greece € 30, Abroad € 60 *B onjour Athènes published in French in Greece € 20, Abroad € 40 * Both magazines in Greece € 50, Abroad € 90 Also published in Chinese & Russian
Insider Publications Ltd. located at Markou Botsari 16 A 117 41 Athens, Greece. Telephone: 210.729.8634 Fax: 210.729.8634. Tax: No. 099747145. Email: info@insider-magazine.gr Reproduction in whole or in part, by any means whatsoever, is forbidden except with the express written permission of the publisher.
info@insider-magazine.gr www.insider-magazine.gr www.bonjour-athenes.com
Although Athens Insider has made every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, the publisher cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions it may contain. Athens Insider maintains a strict policy of editorial independence and preferential treatment is never guaranteed to advertisers.
Athens Insider is published monthly and its brand, logo and all editorial content is held worldwide by:
Athens Insider: Monthly Publication ISSN 1790-3114 Code: 6548
Prices include VAT and postage.
insider athens | February 2014 1
contributors Despina Tzereme
Despina has studied Business Administration & Economics at Patra University of Business and Economics. For 15 years she worked in the boating business, in marketing and management, a year ago she moved to the US where she was involved in Human Resource Management. Since her return, she has been working with Insider Publications.
A documentary producer for BBC Television in the 90s, Michael worked in broadcasting in South Asia before establishing his TV production business in Australia. He lived in Athens for almost four years before moving back to Melbourne and has continued contributing to Athens Insider and for the English language edition of Australia’s largest circulation Greek newspaper, Neos Kosmos. Michael combines his writing with producing independent documentary films.
Kostas Bekas
Kostas Bekas was born and raised in Athens and has been capturing Athens’ rich social and diplomatic life for the past twenty years. A regular contributor to Athens Insider and Bonjour Athènes, Kostas has been the official photographer to several multinationals and embassies.
When not putting his body on the line in the name of unscientific health research, Richard is a writer and producer of films through his company, Living Projects. He recently produced the Breathtaking Athens short viral (see ‘athens bubble film’ on youtube). Other current film projects include training dramas for the NHS and a documentary about the new age city of Auroville, South West India. He lives and mostly works between Athens and London.
Graham Wood
Richard Mullane
Graham lived and worked in the UK and Japan before moving to Athens in 2004 to cover the Olympics and Paralympics as a freelance journalist. Currently he writes about the Greek sports scene for the Press Association and UEFA and has contributed features on travel, leisure and the environment to publications such as the Athens News and Kathimerini.
Eliza Mouzenidou was born and raised in Athens. She studied Technology of Graphic Arts and graduated with the highest GPA amongst her colleagues. For the last six years she has been working as a graphic designer for prestigious publications, designing the corporate identity for art fairs and five star hotels. Her true passion is photography and during her free time she enjoys playing tennis.
2 insider athens | February 2014
Michael Sweet
Eliza Mouzenidou
contents
10 14 28
Features
Departments
An alliance of solidarity 10 France hosts a series of cultural events to celebrate Greece’s presidency of the EU
A luxurious retreat The Grand Forest hotel in Metsovo raises the bar in Greek hospitality
The Mayor who walks the walk Interview with Thessaloniki Mayor Yiannis Boutaris
12
Man seeks alternative health high 34 Report on a holistic binge
Bridging the Gulf Ambassador Raed Al-Rifai of Kuwait speaks candidly on Greek-Kuwaiti solidarity
14
Year of the Fundamental Investor 20 Calamos Investments shares its economic outlook for 2014
32
Culture 10
Snow motion 36 Skiing off the slopes in Kalavryta Passion for fashion Tips to get dolled up and look cool this season
Arts 4
38
Interview 12 Diplomacy 14 In the spotlight 18 Finance 20 Cinema 24
Holistic bliss 40 Pampering rituals at the Orloff spa
Wellness 28 Travel 32
Cinema Diaspora 24 The story of three Australian-Greeks from Kythera
Spice up the romance 42 A round-up of the best romantic offers in town
Sports 36
Beauty and the bee 28 Apivita celebrates 35 years of success with an experience store
The food of love 44 La Chocolatiere’s Yannie Katsandris suggests creative recipes
Romance 42
The wellspring of life 30 Voted one of the best spas in the world, the Thermae Sylla Spa in Edipsos is a perfect detox getaway
Mediterranean goodness Understated opulence and nostalgic cuisine at The Tudor Hall restaurant
46
Beauty 38
Gastronomy 44 Restaurants 48 Kaleidoscope 72
32 39 40 44 46 Find us on:
Cover picture: shutterstock
and at www.insider-publications.com
insider athens | February 2014 3
Arts & events
01
02
6 7 &
february
february
7
until
f ebruary
03
15
until
february
16
until
february
Athens Concert Hall
Onasis Cultural Centre
Zoumboulakis Galleries
Hellenic Cosmos
Go for Democracy On the occasion of the Greek presidency of the European Union, Le Nouvel Observateur and Kathimerini are organizing a forum in Athens with political representatives, intellectuals and experts under the high patronage and in the presence of Antonis Samaras, Prime Minister of Greece, Evangelos Venizelos, Deputy Prime Minister of Greece and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Valery Giscard d’Estaing, President of the French Republic (1974-1981), Jacques Delors, President of the Notre Europe Institute, President of the European Commission (1975-1985), Martin Schulz, President of the European Parliament. Vas. Sofias Av. & Kokkali, Athens www.megaron.gr
1st New Choreographers Festival, Paul Blackman & Christine Gouzelis: Vicious Cycle 01 In Vicious Cycle, the Australian choreographer Paul Blackman, his collaborator Christine Gouzeli and the Jukstapoz company set out to discover ways of breaking free of a vicious cycle of eternal repetition and the models of behaviour that forever lead us to the same thoughts, acts and mistakes. The OCC’s first New Choreographers Festival brings five talented up-and-coming choreographers together in an exciting programme featuring four new productions. Tickets: 5 - 18€ Syngrou 107-109 www.sgt.gr
Vanessa Anastassopoulou, Eleni Theofilaktou 02 Zoumboulakis Galleries presents for the first time, an exhibition with mixed media drawings by Vanessa Anastassopoulou and Eleni Theofilaktou. The series of works by Vanessa Anastassopoulou mirrors our fragile and uncertain existence posing questions about our passage through space and time. Eleni Theofilaktou, through her personal locution and the particularity of her ‘clear’ expression, transfers us to a familiar and yet unfamiliar world, a world dominated by silence, by paradox, by an inverted daily routine, by surprise and by coherences. Kolonaki Sq. 20, Kolonaki www.zoumboulakis.gr
Exhibition on Leonardo Da Vinci 03 The exhibition has traveled through over 20 cities worldwide and provides a comprehensive insight into the landmarks of the life and work gifted to the world by this amazing historical figure. Within the exhibition there are over 40 3D interactive models of his inventions and machines complemented by multimedia installations with 55 simulations. The visitors will also have the opportunity to admire 23 digital copies of Da Vinci’s most famous artistic creations, such as “The Mona Lisa”, “The Last Supper”, and “Lady with an Ermine”. Pireos 254, Tavros www.hellenic-cosmos.gr
4 insider athens | February 2014
On the town For location details see listings on page 59
04
17
until
february
05
1819 22 &
february
february
until
february
The Breeder
Athens Concert Hall
Gallery Skoufa
Chryssa Romanos The Breeder presents the work of Chryssa Romanos (1931-2006). Romanos, a distinctive Greek artist, quickly established an individualized style which placed her at the forefront of global artistic developments of her time. The exhibition consists of collage and décollage work, all of which are characterized by a critical position on sociopolitical and artistic issues. Iasonos 45, Athens www.thebreedersystem.com
Music Aeterna-Teodor Currentzis Two masterpieces of the Baroque period performed by MusicAeterna and the famous Teodor Currentzis: Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas, a monumental work of Baroque opera, and Dixit Dominus, one of Handel’s finest pieces of Latin church music. Teodor Currentzis is the Artistic Director of the Perm State Opera and Ballet Theatre, Artistic Director of the International Diaghilev Festival, Founder and Artistic Director of the ensemble MusicAeterna and of the MusicAeterna Chamber Choir. Tickets: 8,5-60€ Vas. Sofias Av. & Kokkali, Athens www.megaron.gr
Truth Decay by Lina Pigadioti-Tzima Gallery Skoufa presents Lina Pigadioti’s personal art work, a series of mixed technique on paper and canvas that combine a game of printmaking using an earthy colour palette. Aiming at expressing the importance of time through art, she uses a unique blend of engravings, monotypes, collage, painting and photography. Skoufa 4, Kolonaki www.skoufagallery.gr
28
until
february
Kappatos Gallery / St George Lycabettus Hotel Rooms 2014 04, 05 Kappatos Gallery presents the annual contemporary art exhibition ROOMS 2014 for the fourteenth time since 1999. In one of the most popular and historical exhibitions of contemporary art, 20 curators, historians and theorists of art, choose art works from an emerging artist or group of artists, to exhibit them in hotel rooms. 25 distinguished artists participate with audio, photography and art installations, paintings, sculptures, projects, design, performances, films etc. Dexameni, Kolonaki www.kappatosgallery.com
insider athens | February 2014 5
Arts & events
On the town For location details see listings on page 59
06
07
16
until
march
08
14 march
142 192 march
april
march
april
Astir Palace Resort
Parnassos Concert Hall
Golden Hall
French Film Festival
Turkish Festival 06 An evening of mystical dervish dancing by renowned performers on May 9 (open to the public) followed by a weeklong gastronomic festival at the Astir Palace Resort. Two chefs from across the Aegean come down to the Astir Palace Resort to recreate flavours from the Bosphorous. For those who’d like to learn more about Turkish cuisine,two cooking workshops during the course of the festival teach you the secrets and the short-cuts to creating an authentic Turkish meal. Apollonos 40, Vouliagmeni www.astirpalaceresort.com
Ambassadors in Concert Ambassadors get together for an evening of classical music to show solidarity and to raise money for the SOS children’s village in Vari. All proceeds from ticket sales to go to the SOS Children’s village. The concert will feature performances by several ambassadors and Greek and international musicians. The evening will be followed by cocktails and light finger food. For tickets: Contact SOS Village at 210.331.3661, sosathens@sos-villages.gr or Insider Publications at info@insider-magazine.gr 8 Ag. Georgiou, Karitsi Sq
Vive la France 07 Golden Hall takes on the colours of France during a two week extravaganza highlighting French brands at the Golden Hall. It will also be the venue for celebrating the ‘Week of Francophonie in Greece’ and the 10th anniversary of Bonjour Athènes, Insider Publication’s French magazine. Kifissias Ave 37A, Maroussi www.goldenhall.gr
Now established as an important date in the cultural agenda of the city, the 15th edition of the French Film Festival, as every spring, brings the best of French cinema to Greece. Romance, action, drama, comedy, suspense and even bone-chilling horror – the French Film Festival in Athens and Thessaloniki promises all this and more. French actress Nathalie Baye will be this year’s guest of honour. www.ifa.gr, www.festivalfilmfrancophone.gr
6 insider athens | February 2014
08
MEDUSA ART GALLERY Από το 1979
MEDUSA ART GALLERY Since 1979
Arts & events
On the town For location details see listings on page 59
09
10
30
until
march
The Athens House of Photography Willy Ronis photo exhibition 09, 10 The Athens House of Photography presents the work of the great French photographer Willy Ronis. Ronis is amongst the most important French photographers of the 20th century. Together with Doisneau and Brassai (with whom he created the photo agency Rapho), he is considered the foremost photographer of Paris, and many of the most popular photographs of the city of lights are his creations. His photography is humanist, with an emphasis on street photography, while later in his career he also devoted himself to depicting the female nude. Zirini 23, Kifissia www.phototheatron.com
8 insider athens | February 2014
may until
Museum of Cycladic Art H Y G I E I A. Health, Illness and Treatment from Homer to Galen The Museum of Cycladic Art organizes a major exhibition on a universal subject providing an overview of the evolution of ancient medical practices: the transition from magico-religious healing practices to rational, scientific medicine. Nearly 300 ancient artifacts from 42 museums in Greece, Cyprus, Italy, France, United Kingdom, Germany, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Switzerland, will be displayed in this exhibition which will be articulated in three sections: Health, Illness, Treatment Neophytou Douka 4, Athens www.cycladic.gr
1
until
june
B & M Theocharakis Foundation Konstantinos Parthenis Kostis Parthenis has been one of the most important artists of the last two centuries as he managed to mingle the morphological perception of the modern aesthetics with the Modern Greek perception of painting, which was dominated by the spirit of the “Munich School”. As a teacher in the Fine Arts School, he influenced decisively the moulding of the ‘Generation of the ‘30s” that combined Hellenism with contemporary aesthetic expressions. Tickets: 3-6€ Vas. Sofias Av. 9 & Merlin 1, Athens www.thf.gr
july until
Benaki Museum Yannis Tsarouchis: Illustration of an autobiography. The exhibition presents the history of Yannis Tsarouchis’ paintings, re-creating the environment in which he lived and investigating the manner in which he was influenced throughout his artistic progress. The theme “Illustrating an autobiography” will be shown in two parts, each of which will last a full year. Viewers will begin with Yannis Tsarouchis’s childhood in Piraeus, Athens and Kifissia, and will traverse the artist’s life through his works: what he listened to, his acquaintances, his intimates, his collaborators and his teachers. Tickets: 2,5- 5€ Pireos 138 www.benaki.gr
Turkish food & culture week
Astir Palace Resort 7-16 March A ten-day extravaganza of Turkish flavours and traditions Turkish cuisine from March 7-16:
• Two Turkish guest chefs create authentic flavours from the Bosphorous at the Grill Room restaurant from 7 pm to midnight daily. • Live music daily • Turkish cuisine workshops on 8 and 15 March for € 25 per person including cooking lessons and lunch.
A unique show on March 9 with:
• Dance of the Whirling Dervishes • Traditional music concert with qanun, oud (stringed instruments) and ney (wind instrument) • A fashion show with traditional costumes from Adana. • The show will be followed by a reception with Turkish flavours. Tickets will be sold at € 30 per person. (The price includes food.)
Exhibitions from March 7-14:
• An art exhibition featuring artworks by Prof. Devrim Erbil • Calligraphy on silver by renowned artist Mr. İsmet Özer
For reservations, please contact: 210.890.1000 or check www.astirpalaceresort.com The Arion Resort and Spa, Astir Palace Resort, Apollonos 40, Vouliagmeni
3
6
1
4
2
An alliance of solidarity France pulls out all the stops by hosting a series of cultural events – some for the first time ever – to celebrate Greece’s six-month presidency of the European Union and the 40th anniversary of Greece’s return to democracy.
5
A
bilateral cultural and educational programme organized by the French Institute and the French embassy in Athens on the occasion of Greece’s six-month presidency of the European Union, the Greece-France Alliance 2014 underscores the unique partnership the two nations have shared. About 100 shows, exhibitions, concerts, discussions, conferences and festivals will be held in cities across Greece and France over the next six months with the aim of highlighting the ties between the two countries and promoting Greek contemporary art to the world. The programme is being held under the aegis of the two countries’ foreign ministries and with the support of the Stavros Niarhos Foundation. A cinematic tribute to Melina Mercouri that coincides with the beloved actresses’ 20th death anniversary screens some of her most popular films at the Greek Film Archive from March 1-9. Several high-profile performances and concerts including the Comedie-Francaise, France’s national theatre, visits Athens for the first time in half a century to stage Jean Anouilh’s “Antigone”. Internationally renowned director
1. Théâtre: Controls Frédéric Sonntag, 2. Education 15-17/05 Regional Seminar of the International Organization of la Francophonie 3. Dance 10 , 11, 16 & 17/05 Yannick Boquin Chopin In Love’ 4. Cinema 01-09/03 Tribute to Melina Mercouri 5. Music 17/02-30/05 French Music Of Our Time With The National Orchestra Of Athens 6. Theatre As of 22/ 01 George Dandin or the Confounded Husband From Molière 7. Visual Arts Exhibition 22/02-15/07 Box In Suitcase
10 insider athens | February 2014
Culture
7
10
13
8
14
9
11
Ludovic Lagarde collaborates with Greece’s National Theatre, while the Athens Stage Orchestra performs works by contemporary French composers including tributes to legendary composers Claude Debussy and Maurice Ravel on February 6 and concerts by Quatuor Tana on February 13 and the Paxos Ensemble on February 20. Debating on the future of Europe and on the threat to democratic processes around the world, politicians and academics will discuss at length the issues that seem to be troubling the continent at the Athens Concert Hall on February 6 & 7 in an event organized by Le Nouvel Observateur and Kathimerini newspaper. Other events in the lecture series include a series of discussions organized by the College de France (as of February 4). Hubert Reeves, the renowned astrophysicist participates in “geo-meetings” on February 27 while Louvre director Jean-Luc Martinez delivers a lecture on Nike of Samothrace at the French Institute auditorium on June 3. Among the theatre productions that will be staged both here and in
12
15
France this summer, Comedie-Francaise will stage “Antigone” directed by Marc Paquien at the Athens Concert Hall (April 26-27) while Jean-Rene Lemoine will stage his “Iphigenie” (Iphigenia), starring Lena Papaligoura with the Apo Michanis Theatre. The National Theatre will cooperate with Ludovic Lagarde on Bernard-Marie Koltes’s “Quay West”, which will be staged in Greece and France (as of June 5), and Paul Claudel’s “Le Soulier de Satin” (The Satin Slipper), directed by Efi Theodorou. Both feature on the programme of the Athens Festival this summer. The state orchestras of Athens and Thessaloniki have also prepared collaborations and tributes to French composers. “Werther”, an opera by Jules Massenet conducted by Ilias Voudouris and directed by Spyros Evangelatos, will return to the Greek National Opera’s Olympion Theatre on April 11 while Yannick Boquin will stage his ballet “Chopin in Love” at the same venue on May 10. A six-month long culture-fest that highlights the solidarity between these two democracies and the strong cultural ties that bind them. For more information, www.ifa.gr
8. Book, Ideas, Knowledge 03 & 04/04 Symposium on Thought Of Form And Inheritance from Greeks 9. Visual Arts Exhibition 15/02-15/03 : Document 1993 - Shortly Before Shortly After 10. Music 06 & 07/06 Plissken Festival 11. Visual Arts Αpril - May Residence Hors Les Murs, Robert Guillaume In Arcadia 12. Book, Ideas, Knowledge 22 & 23/01 Symposium Tribute to Louis- Vincent Thomas 13. Cinema From June 2014 Week Traveling From French Cinema 14. Theatre 10/05-10/06 Festival Of Contemporary Scriptures 15. Dance 23 & 24/05 Romeo and Juliet / Sébastien Lefrancois
insider athens | February 2014 11
The Mayor who walks the walk Athens Insider gets up close and personal with the charismatic mayor of Thessaloniki, Yiannis Boutaris, who has championed the allure of his 2300 year old city to its citizens and tourists like. But more importantly, he has done the unthinkable - given public office a good name!
Mayor Boutaris, one of the most striking things you have achieved during your tenure as mayor, has been to make the citizens of Thessaloniki proud of their identity. How did you reconnect the citizens with their city? This is an ongoing effort that hopefully will come true eventually. In fact the whole project regards making Thessaloniki an open, inclusive, cosmopolitan and welcoming city, through cultivating tourist consciousness. We try to make the citizens of Thessaloniki love and appreciate their city, by knowing more about it, about its treasures and its touristic advantages. So we launched several programmes, such as the “museum sleep-overs” for children, as well as thematic free guided tours (Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, Jewish, Architecture, etc) throughout the city. We created the Monuments and the Muse-
the city are going to be sold for the first time. And we promote and support civil society initiatives that highlight the fact that citizens care about their city and their neighbourhood and act for them.
You have also re-defined Thessaloniki as a tourist destination, attracting tourists from new and traditional markets. What was different about your approach to promoting Thessaloniki? The basic idea was that Thessaloniki has a rich history of 2.300 years and an equally rich heritage – Hellenistic, Roman, Ottoman, Byzantine, Jewish – visible in the city, making it more than logical to turn to certain countries that have a relation either with the past of the city or with Orthodoxy, such as the Turks, the Jews, the Russians and the Balkan countries. So we tried to highlight the Ottoman and the Jewish aspects of the city that were long hidden under the carpet. This was the first difference. We try to make the citizens of Thessaloniki love Then, we put forward “city diplomacy”, meaning the cooperation with cities of these counand appreciate their city, by knowing more about tries in several sectors, in order to promote it, about its treasures and its touristic advantages. our city and enhance its profile. For example, in the case of Russia’s St. Petersburg, the ums maps as well as the map of the 15 UNESCO monuments of Thes- Thessaloniki Municipal Gallery collection was exhibited there and we saloniki. We set up a second tourist info kiosk at Aristotelous square celebrated 2013 as the Year of Cyril and Methodius. In the case of – the first is at the Galerius Arch – in cooperation with the Thessalo- Turkey, there were many delegations to Istanbul, Izmir, Ankara and niki Professionals’ Chamber which served more than 12.000 visitors the Black Sea region. In the case of Israel we organised visits to tourduring the first 6 months. We plan to set up a third info kiosk near the ism fairs and got in contact with local authorities and institutions. In White Tower, hopefully on a permanent basis, and where souvenirs of the case of Bulgaria, the Thessaloniki Municipal Council honoured the
“
12 insider athens | February 2014
”
Interview
b tw
Bulgarian President, and we also took part in a tourist forum promoting Thessaloniki to Bulgarian tourist agencies. Finally, we strive to host great cultural or sports events of international importance. In 2011, the 15th Biennial of Young Artists from Europe and the Mediterranean took place at Thessaloniki, in 2012, the World Music Expo (WOMEX) was organized in Thessaloniki, in 2013 the 12th World MaxiBasketball Championship happened here, and in 2014 Thessaloniki will be the European Youth Capital.
that direction already take place in Greece. The “initiative of the five mayors”, working in a reformist direction, away from party politics on the local authorities level, is such an example. The mobilization of civil society, through citizens’ groups that take initiatives for better
From a political standpoint, you have been a role-model for aspiring public figures and a beacon of hope for Greeks tired of politicians short-changing them for quick gains. Is it possible for ‘clean politics’ to survive in Greece? Thank you very much for all your kind words. I’m not really doing anything special, just speaking my mind out loud. Since I’m not a politician, but an active citizen in a political post on a local authority level, I don’t care about the “political cost”. I think that Greeks have indeed been tired by the political system, although they are at the same time the ones who have empowered it. But I don’t think that what you call “clean politics” is something to be awaited for in the short term; not only for Greece, but for the whole world. Politics is not clean, anyway. This doesn’t mean that we have to abstain. On the contrary, active and informed citizens are the ones who make the difference and keep things moving. That’s why I’m optimistic about my country, too. You see, efforts in
quality of life, social cohesion, solidarity, is another such an example. And then, the “silent majority” of Greeks, that calls for a reformist effort, for a drastic change in every negative aspect of the public sphere, the state, the country’s development model. And, probably, there are many other examples that I might be forgetting.
“
I’m not really doing anything special, just speaking my mind out loud.
”
Insider Publications is proud and honoured to have launched its first issue dedicated to this historic city. What role would you like Thessaloniki Insider to play in the promotion of Thessaloniki? A magazine like the Insider can serve as an ambassador of the city; or, simply put, as a guide for any foreign visitor coming into Thessaloniki; It can highlight both the basic tourist attractions as well as the not-soobvious-but-beautiful-and-interesting-Thessaloniki, along with the gourmet and gastronomic traditions of the city and together with the great events that take place organized by the local institutions. So, I wish you good luck in this new publishing effort.
insider athens | February 2014 13
1.
2.
Bridging the gulf Ambassador Raed Al-Rifai of Kuwait speaks at length on the unique friendship and solidarity the Greeks share with Kuwait, the instability in the Middle East and on a Kuwaiti island with Greek heritage. In conversation with Sudha Nair-Iliades
J
ust before our interview, Ambassador Al-Rifai waits graciously by the entrance of his residence in Filothei in what he describes as a beautiful structure ‘that reflects the aesthetics of Kuwait and draws on architectural elements from Greece.” It is a gloriously sunny January morning – one of those legendary halcyon days – and as we walk in, sunlight filters in from the large bay-windows, lending the immaculately appointed house an almost ethereal air. Quite clearly a man of exigent standards, the Ambassador mumbles his disappointment on the state of his garden – though it seems in impeccable condition. Done up in exquisite taste, the residence has a sprinkling of artifacts from Kuwait. A photo with President Bush Sr. sits prominently on a side-table. Even before we begin our conversation, I’m proffered trays of savoury snacks, several pastries and of course, pots of tea. What followed was an engaging discussion. A few excerpts from the meeting:
14 insider athens | February 2014
Diplomacy as a career choice I was always partial to history, my late father –who belonged to a family that was and continues to be involved in commerce - believed that a degree in history was not marketable unless I went for a higher degree. So I opted for living history, contemporary history and majored in International Politics and Philosophy from the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis. I joined the foreign service and was sent to Oxford University’s St. Anthony’s College that specializes in International relations. My first stint as a junior diplomat was in Washington DC where I arrived just seven days after the invasion of Kuwait; a very traumatic time for me personally and a very challenging period for a young diplomat. During those critical months the Embassy was open 24 hours with a lot of frantic calls and cables being sent back and forth (this was the preInternet and mobile phone era). I remember endless hours of typing
Photos: Kostas Bekas
Diplomacy
1. The well-appointed garden at the Kuwaiti Residence 2. Ambassador Al-Rifai at the entrance of his spacious home 3. A view of the corridor between the sitting and dining areas 4. A corner of the living room, overlooking the pool.
and a fair share of night shifts. The US was home to a lot of Kuwaiti expats and students so the Embassy felt at times more like an emergency room in a hospital. But those dark times, I believe brought out the best in people.
Different foreign policy challenges for different decades I think we are led to believe that the decade we are in is more eventful than others that have preceded it. But when I look back at the eighties, we had the Soviet presence in Afghanistan, the Iran-Iraq war, perestroika and the domino effect it had on the rest of Europe. (I was in Berlin when the wall came down as part of an Oxford study tour of major European capitals and institutions and it remains an event that has left a lasting impression on me.) The nineties, were of course marked by Mandela’s release, the invasion of Kuwait and the Gulf War, the emergence of East Asia and South America as economic power blocks. The millennial decade has been fraught with issues such as climate change (the consequences of which we have been witnessing within our own lifetime), the financial meltdown, the internet and social media revolution and the introduction of euro. This decade has been about movements for change towards democracy. Change, by definition is associated with upheaval. If not, it wouldn’t be change. Needless to say for some societies, the transition will be more painful than others.
3.
Stability in the Middle East Regarding the Middle East, as you well know, the region has, for the last four years, been undergoing pivotal political and societal changes. It is a time of upheaval and revolutions and it is in the nature of revolutions that time must pass before a clear picture emerges. It is a long term process. One has just to think of the French or the Russian revolutions. Their societies underwent so many stages before a stable system of governance was established. These uprisings were about civil rights, jobs and democracy, not religion. In Kuwait, we’ve recently hosted, and for the second time, a conference to aid and help Syrian refugees – over 70 countries and 24 major international organisations attended. Kuwait donated 300 mil-
4.
insider athens | February 2014 15
1.
lion at the first conference last year and 500 million this year. The Syrian people have been through untold hardships but I believe the solution should be a political one, not a military one.
Your posting here Indeed I arrived in Athens in November 2009 when the crisis was unfolding and gradually snowballing. Like everyone else, I witnessed the terrible cost exacted on Greek society. I think we have now turned over an important chapter in this crisis. I believe in the Greek people and their steely determination to overcome these mega difficulties. This determination is proved by the herculean measures enacted so far. All efforts must now be concentrated towards growth. All present positive signs must be carefully nurtured. With respect to this point, the crisis which is economic and financial in nature posed a personal challenge. Therefore, as economics was never a strong suit of mine, I tried to rectify this immediately by subscribing to the Financial Times to get a more thorough understanding of the situation.
Kuwait – Greek relations Indeed, we celebrate this year the 50th Anniversary for the establishment of diplomatic relations between Greece and Kuwait. In few short words, I can only describe the relations between the two countries as exemplary. I don’t think there has been a single incident during the past 50 years to disturb this harmony. We in Kuwait recall with gratitude the principled stance that Greece took, along with the rest of the
16 insider athens | February 2014
2.
world, in the aftermath of the invasion of my country by the armed forces of the Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein. Greece participated militarily in the international coalition which consisted of 34 nations and succeeded in liberating Kuwait on the 26th of February 1991. Speaking of the present, if I had to choose a specific goal I would definitely have to say that I wish to see and help achieve deeper and stronger economic relations between the two countries.
Trade In this regard I am happy to tell you that we have just hosted a 60 man strong business delegation headed by the Secretary General for International Economic Relations and Development Cooperation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs H.E. Mr. Panagiotis Mihalos. This is an important first step, an introduction to the potentials that can be tapped in the Kuwaiti market.
Education and Tourism Tourism has been growing significantly over the last four years and this is chiefly attributable to the fact that traditional Kuwaiti tourist destinations in the Middle East are no longer an option due to the regional crisis. People are seeking alternative destinations that are not too far away and when they come to Greece they realize how beautiful it is. By the way, I would like to thank the Greek Embassy in Kuwait and my counterpart in assisting the Kuwaiti citizens with the issuance of their visas. I believe that this summer we will have a great influx of tourists. We expect numbers to go only in one direction.
Diplomacy
1. Ambassador Al-Rifai in front of the renowned painting of the old Kuwait palace and clock tower 2. An external view of the Residence: an architectural masterpiece with high aesthetics 3. A view of the pool
3.
The Ambassador’s role
Failaka Island
A typical day at the office is a typical day at the office. I start with looking at the cables that have arrived overnight. Sometimes there are appointments in or out of the office, I meet with my staff and I sign anything that needs to be signed. Afterwards, I usually go home to have my lunch which is also my dinner, but as any ambassador would tell you this is not the end of the day, we continue with other functions in the evenings. After all, Athens has many diplomatic missions and the diplomatic community is a vibrant one just like the city. And then I go back home to start all over again the next day.
(Dilmun is a land mentioned by the Mespotamian civilization which is associated with the island of Bahrain, the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabian, Qatar, and Oman.)
Personal
The name Failaka is thought to be derived from the Ancient Greek word fylakio, meaning outpost. The Greeks arrived in the 4th century B.C. in the form of a garrison sent by Nearchus, one of Alexander the Great’s admirals. The city was called Icaria (after the Greek island and mythical hero) and was a small Greek Colony from 325 to 150 B.C. Failaka’s position, at the point where the Tigris and Euphrates pour into the Gulf, was a strategic location for the Greek Empire. French archaeologists have uncovered remnants of a temple to Artemis, the Greek goddess of hunting, as well as several Greek coins and idols. In addition, Greek archaeological teams have in more recent years been instrumental in unearthing treasures and have contributed a lot towards our understanding and appreciation of these sites. During this year I am hopeful that we will be able to recognize this significant historical association by twinning Failaka and Ikaria.
First of all, I want people to know that the Greek and the Arab cultures are very similar in many aspects and anyone who experiences both I am sure will confirm this. With respect to living here, I have to say that in Greece one is spoiled for choice. So it goes without saying that it would be hard to pick out somewhere specific. I can only tell you that I grew up by the sea so I am partial to the Southern suburbs of Athens. I feel rejuvenated when I spend the day there. I encourage any new ambassador to see as much from Greece and not only the islands. Northern Greece is astonishingly breathtaking and must not be ignored. I am fond of the city of Thessaloniki, there is something very positive about it. But, it remains, complex and inexplicable. As for the legacy, I’d like to be remembered as someone who came, tried his best to promote and to deepen relations, and to leave in peace.
Failaka Island
insider athens | February 2014 17
French Chamber’s Pita-cutting 1 2
3
4
The French-Greek Chamber of Commerce welcomed new members of its business community and had its traditional ‘pita-cutting’ ceremony at Zappeion on 28 January. The minister of foreign affairs, Mr. Evangelos Venizelos delivered a rousing speech. Seen here from left to right: 1. French Ambassador Jean-Loup Kuhn-Delforge, President of the Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Christopher Hadzopoulos, General Manager of Costa Navarino, Mr. Michel Cottray and Foreign Minister Mr. Evangelos Venizelos. Also present were 2. Mr. Yiannis Tricardos 3. Mr. Christophe Lemarie, CEO of Pernod-Ricard Hellas with Mr. Cyril Manguso, General Manager of Sofitel. 4. The winner of the lucky charm (a four-night stay at the luxurious Westin Resort) was Mr. Panayiotis Kapos of Thales, seen here in picture with Catherine Manali, Director of the Chamber of Commerce and Mr. Michel Cottray. 5. Journalists present included Ms. Odile Duperry, Bureau chief at AFP with Alexia Kefalas of Le Figaro. 6. Athanase Lavidas, Mayor Giorgos Kaminis and Nikos Vernicos.
5
6
Events & People 1
2
3
Ambassadors in Concert Following a remarkable initiative spearheaded by Ambassador (retd.) Konstantin Preveroudakis in Vienna, ten years ago to get ambassadors together in concert for charity, the Austrian Ambassador here, Melitta Schubert decided to start a similar initiative in Athens. The result: Ambassadors from different countries get together on March 14 at Parnassos Concert Hall for a charity concert. The proceeds from the concert held in Vienna in November 2013 were donated to SOS Children’s Villages in Greece 1. Ambassador Konstantin Preveroudakis seen handing over the cheque to
18 insider athens | February 2014
Mr. Anastasios Vrettos, President of the SOS Children’s Villages in Greece. The proceeds from the March concert will also go towards supporting programmes run by the SOS Village. 2. George Protopapas, National Director for SOS Village seen here with Ambassador Melitta Schubert. 3. The Ambassadors of Canada, India, Argentina, Mexico who will be performing at the concert and Nikos Tsaoussis, the concert organizer were also present. For tickets to the Ambassadors in Concert, please contact: 210.331.3661 or email: sosathens@sos-villages.gr or info@insider-magazine.gr
In the spotlight 1
2
3
Tribute to Lord Byron On 22 January 2014, the 226th anniversary of Lord Byron’s birthday, 18 Secondary School pupils from Byron College, accompanied by the Head of School, Mr Burfield, and the Head of English & Modern Foreign Languages, Mr Tzellos, visited the British Ambassador’s Residence to honour the greatest British philhellene. 1. The British Ambassador, Mr John Kittmer, presented the famous Thomas Philips portrait of Lord Byron in Albanian dress -the original hangs in the Ambassador’s Residence. 2. An enlightening discussion on historic
Hilton Gala
1
2
facts of Lord Byron’s life and work followed, with the Ambassador emphasising to Byron College pupils that it is a great privilege to be nurtured and inspired by the egalitarian, altruistic, quixotic and boundary challenging spirit of this historic figure. 3. Byron College pupils laid a wreath at Lord Byron’s statue in the National Gardens and Irene Karidas, a sixth form Byron College pupil, closed the celebration with a reading of a poem by Lord Byron selected by the Ambassador.
THE TRIAL OF ORESTES
3 4
On 29 January 2014, the National Hellenic Museum in Chicago presented a mock trial of the ancient Greek mythological character, Orestes, son of Agamemnon, of the cursed House of Atreus. Orestes was put to trial for the charge of matricide, and the majority of the 600 guests who attended the re-trial event voted Orestes “not guilty”. 1. Connie Mourtoupalas, Director of the National Hellenic Museum welcomed the participants. The court participants included Judge Honorable Richard A. Posner, Presiding Judge, Honorable Charles P. Kocoras, and Honorable William J. Bauer. 2. Orestes was defended by Dan K. Webb (Winston & Strawn) and Robert A. Clifford (Clifford Law Offices), seen here in picture with Hariklia Karis, Kirkland & Ellis LLP, who gave the background story of Aeschylus’ The Oresteia. Counsel for the prosecution was Patrick J. Fitzgerald (Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP) and Patrick M. Collins (Perkins Coie). Sixteen distinguished citizens of Chicago decided the validity of the charges. 1
2
The Hilton Athens organized a cocktail party at the Galaxy bar to ring in the New Year with journalists, artists, friends and hotel partners against the backdrop of an illuminated Athens, to the music of DJ Kosta Zikou. In pictures: 1. Hilton General Manager Bart van de Winkel with Ioanna Stefanakis 2. Hilton PR Manager Tina Toribaba with Yiannis Stankoglou 3. Calliope Karvounis, Christina Politi and 4. Nancy Mallerou, Theodore Koutsogiannopoulos and Myrto Danelian.
insider athens | February 2014 19
2014: Year of the Fundamental Investor Against a backdrop of global economic recovery and upwardmoving but volatile financial markets, Calamos Investments believes that country and company fundamentals will inform investment success in 2014. John P. Calamos, Sr., CEO and Global Co-CIO, and Gary Black, Global Co-CIO, present their outlook for the year
A
s active managers, we are encouraged by the emergence of a more fundamentally driven environment. Although there will not be a rising tide to lift all boats, we believe the prospects for select equities and convertible securities remain compelling.
Global Outlook While improved global economic growth in 2013 was led by the U.S., we are starting to see positive global synchronization among major economies. Europe is coming out of its recession, and Abenomics has promoted economic growth in Japan. China’s growth has decelerated, but it is delivering solid growth nonetheless, as are a number of lesser-discussed emerging markets. For 2014, we expect global growth slightly above 3.0%. In the wake of the 2008 financial crisis and euro zone turmoil, accommodative policy was good for the global economy. Recovery efforts didn’t take firm hold until the U.S., the European Central Bank and China aligned in an accommodative direction. Now, with the worst appearing to be behind for many economies, countries are following different routes to move forward as they address local issues. The U.S. is tapering; elsewhere in the developed markets, monetary policy remains highly accommodative and fiscal policy has become more stimulative. China and other emerging markets will likely be in varying levels of tightening as they work to avoid credit bubbles while keeping inflation in check. United States. The U.S. economy looks to be in a “not-too-hot, not-too-cold” period, supported by improving GDP growth and low inflation, consumer activity, good corporate balance sheets, and an improving trade balance. We expect U.S. GDP growth of 2.5 to 3.0% in 2014, with inflation holding at less than 2%. We anticipate that the Fed will withdraw QE stimulus by the end of 2014, while continuing accommodative policy through 2015. Net worth is higher than it was before the financial crisis, and the deleveraging cycle may have well have bottomed out. U.S. businesses are also doing well. Capital spending has begun its long-anticipated recovery, with total expenditures at record highs. Corporate cash growth and high cash balances suggest that recovery can be sustained over an extended period. We believe the most significant threat to U.S. economic growth is inflation, which would cause long-term rates to spike. At this point, we believe the threat is low. Wage inflation is
20 insider athens | February 2014
Finance not a problem, as unemployment is still relatively high. At 1.5%, core inflation is well contained today and looks to be so for the foreseeable future, while the velocity of money, a primary driver of asset inflation, remains subdued. Stalled Velocity of Money Supports Outlook for Low Inflation in the U.S. 1Q 1959 to 3Q 2013
b tw
parties to implement structural reforms in Mexico. In the Philippines, economic prospects have been bolstered by President Aquino’s government’s strides against corruption, helping encourage foreign investment and private enterprise. Since Typhoon Haiyan, the Philippine government has also shown greater momentum in advancing public-private partnerships to build infrastructure and promote private enterprise. However, as we have seen, the upcoming taper in the U.S. and the aggressive monetary accommodation in Japan leave many EMs with less room to navigate as they attempt to forestall inflation without curtailing economic growth. Saddled with twin fiscal deficit and a current account deficit (“twin deficits”), Brazil is in a difficult spot as it seeks to combat slowing growth and high inflation, a challenge made more difficult given our expectation of softer commodity demand and rising real interest rates in that country. We’re also cautious on India’s growth prospects, as the government struggles with economic deceleration, rising inflation, a twin deficit, the shadow of a potential ratings downgrade of its debt, as well as a fractious political environment.
Source: Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis Euro zone. We believe GDP growth is likely to turn positive in 2014, led by stronger growth in Germany and more stimulative fiscal policy. Stronger U.S. growth should benefit the region by creating demand for European exports. While we expect regional expansion, the growth will be uneven by country. Germany looks poised to continue a recovery trajectory. Greece, Spain, and Ireland have gone through painful austerity programs and appear headed to brighter prospects. However, countries that have not undertaken reform may remain or become potential problems. More broadly, structural issues across the euro zone continue to create considerable headwinds to more robust growth: money growth is slow, bank loans have declined, and unemployment remains at more than 10% for the region, with youth unemployment even higher at 23%. Japan. The Japanese equity market may have gotten ahead of itself in 2013, especially as the sustainability of its recovery is contingent on meaningful structural reform. Persistent overcapacity issues and stagnant wage growth create significant hurdles to more sustainable economic growth. The trade balance remains problematic, hindered by tepid exports. We expect consumers to pull spending forward before the introduction of the value-added tax this spring; this could lead to a near-term boost to economic growth, but it’s too soon to gauge the longer-term impact of the tax. Emerging markets. As we have seen in these past weeks, a number of emerging markets face significant headwinds and there may be more turmoil to come. However, the secular growth trend of the emerging market middle class consumer remains intact. On a country level, we see encouraging reforms in China, Mexico, the Philippines, and South Korea—reforms that have the potential to improve longer-term economic growth prospects, including stimulating foreign direct investment. In regard to China, we are not anticipating either a hard landing nor a significant acceleration of growth. We believe the economy will slow to a still-healthy 6% range for the medium term. We are prepared for bumps along the way, as the influence of state-owned enterprises (SOEs) decreases and the role of private enterprises expands. Elsewhere, President Nieto’s “Pact for Mexico” has unified opposition
Opportunities in Global Equities We see considerable upside in the equity markets in 2014, albeit with significant divergence between the winners and losers. Developed market equities. In the U.S. steady GDP growth, low inflation and short-term rates, and rising long-term rates have historically supported stocks. Despite the recent volatility in the markets, we believe the U.S. is in the mid-phase of a secular bull market. By many of measures, U.S. equity valuations are reasonable. If we consider the earnings yield of stocks relative to 10-year Treasury yields, on the basis of trailing earnings, the S&P 500 equity return premium is 250 basis points over the Treasury. When we consider forward earnings, equities look even more attractive. Equity earnings yields of 6.3% (inverse of a forward P/E estimate of 16.0x for the S&P 500 for 2014 and earnings per share of $115) provide a 340-basis point advantage relative to 10year Treasury yields at about 2.9%. The return advantage offered by equities over bonds thus ranks at one of its most attractive levels over the past 60 years. U.S. Equities Are Attractive Relative to Treasury Bonds S&P 5001 Trailing Earnings Yield Less the 10-Year Treasury Yield, 1952 through 2013. Recessions indicated by shaded areas
Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Source: Robert Shiller, National Bureau of Economic Research, Federal Reserve Board, Standard and Poor’s, Corporate Reports, Empirical Research Partners Analysis. 1 Capitalization-weighted data.
insider athens | February 2014 21
Finance
b tw
We believe growth-style equities are attractive and cheap versus value. We have found opportunities in technology companies that are benefiting from secular shifts to mobile, the cloud, and internet and social media; consumer discretionary names tied to housing and autos; industrials benefiting from innovations in the U.S. energy sector and infrastructure spending; and financials that may benefit from the upward slope in the U.S. yield curve, increased lending and stronger equity markets. These types of pro-cyclical investments have tended to perform well in similar environments, such as 1994, when long-term interest rates rose, but short-term rates did not in a low-inflation climate. We are more cautious about the prospects for materials, utilities and defensive staples. Valuations Support the Case for U.S. Growth Stocks Large-Capitalization Growth Stocks Relative to Non-Growth Stocks, Relative Forward P/E Ratios, 1976 through 2013
and more optimistic about Mexico. Because of its close ties to the United States, Mexico is positioned to benefit from U.S. economic growth, in contrast to countries that are instead more vulnerable to tapering. We have also diversified our Latin American exposure to include growth opportunities in the Andean region beyond Brazil.
Convertible Securities: Equity Participation with Potentially Lower Volatility Global investors often look to U.S. Treasury bonds as a haven, providing diversification away from the equity markets. However, as the taper approaches, the risk in U.S. investment-grade bonds and Treasurys has increased. For investors who seek alternatives to bonds and those who are reluctant to allocate more to equities, the case for convertible securities remains compelling. As equity-linked securities with less interest rate sensitivity than straight bonds, convertibles provide upside equity participation with potential downside protection if equities decline. These attributes may be particularly beneficial in upwardly moving but volatile global equity markets, and as interest rates rise in the U.S. However, given the complexities of convertible securities, active management remains paramount; passive strategies are ill-equipped to fully leverage the risk/reward opportunities convertibles afford.
Conclusion Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Source: Corporate Reports, Empirical Research Partners Analysis. Capitalization-weighted data. While we’re most constructive on the U.S., our team is identifying increased opportunities within the euro zone. On the basis of valuations, euro zone equities look attractive. Still, structural uncertainties in the region remain far-reaching. This has led us to take a selective approach favoring luxury brands, staples with strong EM presence, and consumer-facing technology. In Japan, the valuations for many companies are higher than we like. Similar to the euro zone, the uncertainties surrounding the implementation of structural reforms heighten our caution. While we are underweighted to Japan, we have found pockets of opportunity in companies that would benefit from increases in consumer spending. Emerging market equities. We are finding attractive prospects in emerging Asia. While we have tended to underweight China versus the broad market, our team is identifying more opportunities, particularly in industries unfettered by SOE competition—such as internet, gaming and consumer spending. We’ve been more wary of the financial sector, given bank participation in funding SOEs and the shadow banking system. In Taiwan and South Korea, we emphasize companies that export to both developed and other emerging economies. We’re adding exposure to the Philippines, favoring consumer opportunities as well as companies positioned to benefit from infrastructure projects. Reflecting the considerations we discussed, we are cautious about Brazil
22 insider athens | February 2014
As active, research-driven investors, we are encouraged by the more fundamentally driven markets that have emerged over recent months— a market climate that we expect will continue through 2014 against the backdrop of global economic recovery. We see compelling upside potential in equities, especially in a U.S. equity market that looks to be in the mid-phase of a secular bull market. However, although conditions look set to improve across much of the global economy, we do not see a rising tide lifting all boats from an investment standpoint.
About Calamos Calamos Investments is a diversified global investment firm offering innovative investment strategies including equity, low-volatility equity, fixed income, convertible and alternative investments, among others. The firm offers strategies through separately managed portfolios, mutual funds, closed-end funds, private funds and UCITS funds. Clients include major corporations, pension funds, endowments, foundations and individuals. Headquartered in the Chicago metropolitan area, the firm also has offices in London and New York. For more information, please visit www.calamos.com/global The opinions referenced are as of the date of publication and are subject to change due to changes in the market or economic conditions and may not necessarily come to pass. Information contained herein is for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment advice. This material is distributed for informational purposes only. The information contained herein is based on internal research derived from various sources and does not purport to be statements of all material facts relating to the information mentioned, and while not guaranteed as to the accuracy or com-pleteness, has been obtained from sources we believe to be reliable. Opinions, estimates, forecasts, and statements of financial market trends that are based on current market conditions constitute our judgment and are subject to change without notice. The views and strategies described may not be suitable for all investors. References to specific securities, asset classes and financial markets are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be, and should not be interpreted as, recommendations. Investments in global markets pose special risks, including currency fluctuation and political risks, and greater volatility than typically associated with investments in economically developed countries with stable political systems. These risks are generally intensified for investments in emerging markets. The price of equity securities may rise or fall because of changes in the broad market or changes in a company’s financial condition, sometimes rapidly or unpredictably. These price movements may result from factors affecting individual companies, sectors or industries. Convertible securities are subject to interest rate risk. If rates increase, the value of fixed income investments generally declines.
HELLAS LIVING by
PANOS I. ZOUGANELIS INVEST IN OUR LUXURY SERVICED APARTMENTS IN GREECE AND OBTAIN A EUROPEAN 5-YEAR RESIDENCE PERMIT
w w w . p z o u g a n e l i s . g r • T: + 3 0 2 1 0 6 0 0 0 3 6 6
MOSAICO Metaxourgeio – Center of Athens
5-star hospitality with minimal surcharges. An oasis of beauty, tranquility and pleasure. Energy-saving & eco-friendly building with 24 apartments for sale. Flats range from 45 m2 to 115 m2, with communal pool on the terrace overlooking the Acropolis, gym, caretaker at minimal cost (cleaning services, garden, swimming pool), no surcharges for central heating as apartments are heated with natural gas, individual air conditioning in all apartments, TV with 4 satellites, wireless data & phone networks and underground parking for cars, motorcycles and bicycles. Located just 30 metres away from the Karaiskaki Metro station (exit Diligianni), very close to the Larissis train station, just 10 minutes from the National highway and 25 minutes away from Piraeus port.
PATHOS Psychico – High end suburb of Athens
Twin luxury villas at Stratigou Kallari 1 & Taygetou 15 in P. Psychico, each from 300 m2 to 465 m2, with possibility of unification. 2 high structural quality detached homes with a unique architectural style and a great location across a quiet park with large trees and with easy access to Kifissias Ave. Each home features a heated swimming pool with wooden deck and BBQ area, a well-appointed garden, playroom with kitchen and bath, guest room, 3-4 independent garages, large internal lift for 6 with access to all levels of the home and state-of-the-art electronic equipment. The building exterior is completely finished while clients have the possibility of re-designing the interiors using high-quality materials according to their needs and aesthetics. Delivery of finished house within three months.
For sales queries, please contact: www.pzouganelis.gr • Tel 210 6000366
S.A.
A temple to
cinema
The founders of the Rox y Theatre in Bingara, New South Wales: Pete r Feros, George Psaltis and Emanuel Aroney were born in the village of Mitata on the island of Kythera in the 189 0s. Photos courtesy Peter Feros Collection.
in the Australian outback In 1936, three men from Kythera built a magnificent art deco cinema in the Australian outback. Mike Sweet tells their story - and how
a. mer in Bingar ey with a custo Emanuel Aron y Peter Feros Collection. Photo courtes
I
de in finished faca eatre with un s there 60 19 rly The Roxy Th ea e th n 1915 and as in New em cin d 1935. Betwee ne ow an 65 Greekerators were more th re theatre op . Many pictu eek cafes Gr l na South Wales tio di ns who ran tra . as em were Kytheria eir cin alongside th
24 insider athens | February 2014
almost 80 years later, their dream lives on
t’s a seven-hour drive from Sydney to the town of Bingara (pop 1207). The long and dusty journey north takes you inland, through the vast landscape of New South Wales an area greater than Texas and four times the size of the UK. This is the Australia of outback legend - of bush pioneers, jackaroos and cattle stations, and Aboriginal sites made sacred long before European settlement. In the 1920s three Kytherians passed this way, intent on making their mark in a land of opportunity far removed from their war-torn lives in Greece. Like thousands before and after them, Emanuel Aroney, Peter Feros and George Psaltis were in search of a new life. In Bingara they formed a partnership - Peters & Co - a generic business name popular with Greek businessmen at the time. For most Greeks, acclimatisation down under required chamaeleon-like behaviour to blend in to a nation that saw England as its mother country, but was increasingly experiencing the ‘Americanisation’ of its eating habits. After first investing in two cafes, by late 1934 they had started building the Roxy - an extraordinary entertainment complex without equal in the region. It was an inspiring and inspired building designed by Sydney architect Mark Woodforde an exponent of Australian ‘angular’ art deco. Comprising a 750-seat cinema, a 140-seat cafe, three shops and a guesthouse - the Roxy Theatre - and its exquisite modern furnishings - was the finest picture house outside Sydney. In March 1936 it opened to amazing scenes. The local newspaper reported a crowd “stormed the streets” to attend the first night, to marvel at the dancing of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers in the RKO feature Roberta. But the Roxy under its original owners would burn bright for a desperately short time. The end credits rolled far too early for its intrepid founders. Excessive outlays and costly delays had overwhelmed the Kytherians’ finances. Six months later, with mounting debts, the dream was over. Peters & Co signed for bankruptcy. The full Roxy narrative - emblematic of the largely untold stories of the thousands of Greeks who made their lives in regional Australia - has only recently been discovered through the work of Sydneysider Peter Prineas, grandson of Peter Feros. “My generation knew very little about Bingara. We knew that Papou had a cafe there and no more. I decided to research it, and that led to a book. I wanted the Greek side of the
Cinema
The restored Roxy Theatre and traditional Greek cafe today. Photos: Greg Punch.
Peter Prineas’ book Katsehamos and the Great Idea tells the story of his grandfather Peter Feros and the Roxy Theatre
story to be heard’, says Prineas. His book Katsehamos and the Great Idea (his grandfather’s nickname was Katsehamos) was published in 2006 - ensuring the Greek side of the story was heard loud and clear. Katsehamos is a homage not just to the Roxy’s founders but the huge number of Greeks who made their indelible mark on regional Australia. “They were part of a phenomenon in Australian immigration that began around 1890 and which over a few decades saw Greeks colonise an area of Australia as large as western Europe with their cafes,” says Prineas. By the 1950s ‘cafe Greeks’ were so ubiquitous that the celebrated Australian painter Russell Drysdale, was including them as subjects in his works and remarking: “It is a curious fact that the alien Greek cafe keeper has become a symbol of the Australian country town”. “It was a kind of triumph,” Prineas says. “Most Greeks who came to Australia then were rural workers with very basic education and little English. Australia at the time preferred British immigrants and Greeks faced barriers to employment. They found a practical solution in the Greek cafe.” After their success as cafe owners, Greeks were quick to take an interest in the new phenomena of the ‘picture house’. As commercial cinemas first rolled out across the Australian outback - Greeks were quick to identify an opportunity. “They saw that a ‘picture show’ crowd was the difference between a cafe business that was adequate and one that was very good,” says Prineas. According to Australian cinema historian Kevin Cork, between 1915 and 1963, Greeks operated more than 120 cinemas in some 57 country towns across the length and breadth of New South Wales. The Roxy operated as a cinema until its closure in 1958. For the next 40 years it lay virtually dormant. Meanwhile the Roxy Cafe continued under a series of Greek owners until the mid-1960s, before becoming
Author and Curator of the Roxy Museum at Bingara - Peter Prineas.
a chinese restaurant. “It was a sleeping beauty,” says Prineas, who is now the curator of the Roxy Museum that will open in Bingara next year. In 1999 the local council purchased the crumbling Roxy complex and - with the assistance of government funding and private donors from Australia’s Greek community - restored the building to its former glory. The Roxy Theatre reopened its doors in 2004 and its elegant cafe was restored three years later. Today the Roxy stands tall and proud once more. The Roxy - operating as a cinema and performing arts venue is again at the heart of the Bingara community. It also has one of the few and finest - traditional Greek cafes that is still open for business in Australia. On 5 April 2014, the final jewel in the redeveloped Roxy crown will be set - a museum dedicated to the history of Greek cafes and cinemas in regional Australia, and the Greeks who left a profound and inspiring legacy.
Epilogue With their Bingara dream over, the Roxy’s three founders went their different ways. Peter Feros moved to Victoria and bought a cafe where his wife and children joined him after the war. He retired to Junee in the Riverina region of NSW where he died in 1954. Emanuel Aroney stayed in Bingara. For 20 years he managed cafes in the town before retiring to Sydney where he passed away in the late 1960s. After a stint in the NSW capital, George Psaltis returned to Bingara to manage the Roxy Cafe for a time, before returning to Sydney to establish a cafe in Kings Cross. In the 1950s he moved to Adelaide where he died penniless some 20 years later.
insider athens | February 2014 25
Tuck) ‘the New Normal’ won the People’s Choice award for ‘Favorite New Comedy’ in 2013.
Programming Highlights February
FOX Life has it all first, just make sure you tune in to watch the first two episodes this February!
©TCFTD
NEW SEASON ©TCFTD
NEW GIRL 3 PREMIERE: Tuesday, 25/2 @ 21.25 Hallelujah, the gang is back! And lucky for us, «New Girl» is not one of those shows that pick up three years after they left off. An ensemble comedy centering on a free-spirited young woman Jess (Zooey Deschanel), her three male roommates, Nick (Jake Johnson), Schmidt (Max Greenfield), Winston (Lamorne Morris) and her best friend, Cici (Hannah Simone), as they navigate modern relationships and form a charmingly dysfunctional – or strangely functional – family. In the season premiere Nick and Jess decide to go “all in” on their romantic relationship – which leads them to run away to a Mexican beach town. But when Nick runs into trouble with the authorities, it’s Schmidt and Winston to the (possible) rescue, which may land Nick into even deeper trouble. Meanwhile, Schmidt makes a decision regarding Cece and Elizabeth, and Winston becomes obsessed with completing a puzzle. Written by Elizabeth Meriwether and directed by Max Winkler, throughout its three season run ‘New Girl’ has received favorable reviews from critics with particular praise given to the performances of Zooey Deschanel and her cast mates. The series has been nominated for multiple awards including five Golden Globes and five Primetime Emmys. Who’s that girl? It’s Jess! The lovely Zooey Deschanel returns to FOX Life with the 3rd season’s episodes of «New Girl»! Stay tuned!
NEW SERIES
THE NEW NORMAL PREMIERE: Friday, 7/2 @ 21.00 With two back to back episodes Bryan (Andrew Rannells) and David (Justin Bartina) are a successful Los Angeles couple who have it all…except the one thing they’re missing: a baby. And just when they think the stars will never align, enter Goldie (Georgia King), a Midwestern waitress and single mother who moved to LA with her precocious eight-year-old daughter. Desperate and broke – but also fertile – Goldie quickly becomes the guys’ surrogate and quite possibly the girl of their dreams. Surrogate mother, surrogate family! Created by Ryan Murphy (American Horror Story, Glee, Nip/
26 insider athens | February 2014
WATCH AGAIN
BEN & KATE PREMIERE: Wednesday, 12/2 @ 22.40 & every Monday to Friday at the same time Can’t get enough of the sibling escapades of ‘Ben & Kate’?! No problem, FOX Life is giving you another opportunity to relive the madness this February! “Ben and Kate” is a single-camera ensemble comedy, following a pair of odd-couple siblings and their friends, as they push each other out of their comfort zones and into real life. Kate Fox (Dakota Johnson) followed the rules all her life...until she got pregnant in college and dropped out just before graduation. After the birth of her daughter, Maddie (Maggie Elizabeth Jones), Kate put her 20s on hold. Now working as a bar manager to make ends meet and maximize her time with Maddie, she’s über-prepared for every possible catastrophe - except for the arrival of her older brother, Ben Fox (Nat Faxon). Ben is the kind of guy that likes trouble. His infectious energy makes everybody want to follow him into any number of bad ideas. He will probably screw up their lives but somehow they’ll feel good about it! Created and executively produced by Dana Fox (New Girl, What Happened in Vegas) and director by Jake Kasdan (New Girl, Bad Teacher), “Ben and Kate” is a heartwarming story of deeply mismatched siblings: a sister who needs to go for her dreams and a brother who needs to get his head out of the clouds. ©TCFTD
RETURN FROM HIATUS
THE WALKING DEAD 4 (PART B) PREMIERE: Monday, 10/2 @ 22.30 In its December mid-season finale, “The Walking Dead” bid farewell to one of its greatest heroes, Hershel (Scott Wilson), whose life was taken in vain at the hands of The Governor (David Morrissey). Hershell was at his best this season, and expected the same attitude from all those he had mentored around him. He managed to guide the group’s leader, Rick (Andrew Lincoln), threw a very difficult time within the prison walls, and repeatedly risked his own life to save other members of his newly formed family. Meanwhile, The Governor proved that he was unable to put aside his transformation into something evil for the sake of peace. He rallied his group to believe that they needed to take control of the prison, but in doing so he managed to lose everything he claimed he was trying to keep safe. Throughout its four season run, “The Walking Dead” writers have killed off many of the major characters, but every time this occurs a sense of redefinition grips the survivors as they are forced to deal with their constantly shifting realities. The sense of security established in the early episodes of Season 4 has been completely destroyed, and uncertainty will only lead to further soul searching and battles for survival. With no home and no hope, it will be difficult for the survivors to regroup and start over. Every time something devastating occurs, along with the show’s characters, fans are tormented through the same emotional roller coaster; while suspense grips their imagination and the uncertainty keeps them glued to the edge of their seat. Alas, the wait is finally over, and questions will be answered in the second half of the incredible fourth season! With the premiere of Episode 9 on FOX, locked for less than 24 hours after the US, make yourself comfortable, and immerse yourself into this epic tale of survival.
NEW SEASON
ARRESTED DEVELOPMENT 4 PREMIERE: Saturday, 15/2 @ 20.25 Following a successful run of the first three seasons of “Arrested Development” on FOX, the critically acclaimed comedy is back with brand new episodes this February. This hilarious comedy series follows the wildly eccentric and entertainingly dysfunctional Bluth family. The story revolves around Michael Bluth (Jason Bateman), Lindsay Bluth (Portia De Rossi), Gob Bluth (Will Arnett), and George-Michael Bluth (Michael Cera) as the recently revived fourth season has managed to retain its star studded cast as well as adding a plethora of new characters. The plot of the fourth season focuses on the fictional production of a film based on the Bluth family scandal and what the characters have been up to since 2006. The show format is different when compared to previous seasons, as each of the fifteen episodes focuses on one individual character—with
During its first three seasons, the series earned 15 Emmy Award nominations and had 6 wins, including 2 wins for ‘Outstanding Writing for a Comedy Series’. After being cancelled in 2006, and following a strategic and aggressive campaign to revive the show by its diehard fans, the fourth season was produced in 2013. The fourth season was nominated for three Primetime Emmy Awards, including ‘Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series’ for Jason Bateman. Make sure you stay tuned to your favorite channel and follow all the Bluth family insanity.
©TCFTD
NEW SERIES
ACCORDING TO JIM 1 PREMIERE: Monday, 24/2 @ 20.40 with two back to back episodes every Monday to Friday. Who’s ready for some good ol’ family fun? Both a family man and a man’s man, Jim (Jim Belushi) is the all-American guy. He’s fiercely devoted to his beautiful wife, Cheryl (Courtney Thorne-Smith) and his five kids, including tween siblings, Ruby (Taylor Atelian), Gracie (Billi Bruno), and Kyle (Conner Rayburn), as well as twin baby boys Gordon and Jonathan. He loves his family but continues to test his wife’s patience with his stubborn antics. Jim also sometimes takes for granted his brother-in-law and best friend, Andy (Larry Joe Campbell), who doggedly covers for Jim’s constant scheming and continues his own search for the perfect woman. Jim often times finds himself in very tricky situations mostly because of his lazy mentality and exceptional ability to cut corners when trying to get a job done.
Programming Highlights February
©AMC
every episode happening simultaneously within the show’s universe—depicting the character’s activities since the conclusion of the third season. Meanwhile, for the first time in the series’ history a cast member, Michael Cera, has joined the writing team.
An international success in all countries in which it has aired, ‘According To Jim’ is an easy to follow comedic series for the entire family, and with plenty opportunities to watch, we at FOX are certain you will fall in love with both Jim, and his wonderful family. ©ABC
insider athens | February 2014 27
Beauty and the bee N
iki Koutsiana has all the hyper-energy and drive of a Queen Bee as she welcomes guests to the latest venture in the Apivita family, the Apivita Experience store on Solonos. Her passion for the project is evident as she sends flurries of instructions on details to be improved on, notes to be sent to the press and little personal touches to be added. That enthusiasm is infectious and it comes through in the different services offered at the store. Apivita built its success and reputation on the honeybee and this store pays homage to that industrious insect, literally and aesthetically. The elegantly restored neo-classical building that houses the store was designed and configured by architect Irini Bourlou who weaves the theme of a beehive throughout the store. The first thing one notices before entering the store is an imposing massive metal door with sculpted bees flitting around, designed by sculptor Nikos Papoutsidis – an exquisite work of art in itself. The store opens onto a courtyard with a large table weighed under trays of herbal teas and plates heaped with pastries and Turkish delights, encircling a beautifully sculpted olive tree, created by Constantine Valai. The ground floor hosts the beauty store, with regular Apivita products from bath gels to skin creams while the first floor is home to the Natural Pharmacy where pharmacists with years of experience and research create customized therapies and products on request. The apiary theme flows throughout the store with drawers and tables made of beehive crates. This floor also stocks a wide range of honey, each distinct in its flavour and remedial properties. Across the Natural Pharmacy, on the same floor, is Juicy Bee, an organic health bar that serves freshly blended smoothies and juices, both sweet and savoury. Sophia Koutsiana, who is more laid-back than her mother Niki, brings her years of experience as a life-coach and yoga teacher to the store. “The
28 insider athens | February 2014
Wellness
14
Apivita celebrates 35 years of success with the opening of a 5-storey ‘experience’ store that combines shopping, wellness, nutrition and a holistic approach to health and beauty
Juicy Bee is the first organic Juice Bar in Greece with original, fresh, energizing and detoxifying recommendations for those who’d like to boost their everyday life with natural energy,” Sophia adds. In keeping with its integrated and holistic approach to health and beauty, Sophia hopes to expand the activities at the store to include nutrition workshops, meditation sessions, art exhibitions and as a platform for exchanging books and ideas on healthy living. Large paintings depicting the Greek landscape dominate the walls and potted herbs dot the balcony. On the third floor, done up in vivid red and black and white checkered tiles, is the Nature’s Hair Studio & Barber Shop, the first green salon in Athens, with sophisticated natural cosmetic products for hair care, green dyes and expert advice from specialists. The barber shop is done up in retro style with two vintage wooden swivel chairs and old-style accoutrements, harking back to a different era. The best is, of course, reserved for the last. The top floor houses the Beehive spa, done up in shades of warm amber and honey. With walls lined with cells and old beekeeping crates and special light effects that re-create the feeling of being ensconced in the interior of a cell, the Beehive spa offers 13 Hippocratic treatments that truly revitalize body and spirit. TIE APIVITA EXPERIENCE STORE Solonos 6 & Kanaris, Kolonaki, Tel 210.364.0560 Open from: Monday - Friday 10.00-21.00, Saturday 10.00-18.00 www.apivita.com
insider athens | February 2014 29
A wellspring of life Ranked as one of the ten best spas in the world, the Thermae Sylla Spa and Wellness hotel in Edipsos, housed in an elegant 19th century building, makes use of the curative properties of its thermal springs to provide the perfect detox getaway
K
ick-start the Year of the Horse with a visit to one of Greece’s approximately 800 springs. First-stop: The Thermae Sylla Spa and Wellness hotel in Edipsos. Long-known as a glamorous, decadent, people-watching outpost, especially in the hedonistic ’60s, the hotel has now combined modern treatment packages based on ancient bathing rituals to make it a truly authentic balneolaspotherapy centre, rated as one of the best in the world.
The tradition of soaking in the curative waters of the many loutra that dot the Greek landscape to cure ailments that range from the common cold to graver maladies is an ancient one, and was, until a few years ago, the domain of the elderly tourist. That has changed with five-star hotel spas such as the Thermae Sylla Spa and Wellness hotel offering a chic alternative to public hydrotherapy centres. A more fitness-conscious mindset has also meant that therapeutic tourism is now appealing to a new demographic – the urban young. While many at the springs are old-timers, a first-timer should expect multiple organized dip sessions into the waters (which have various temperatures which range from freezing cold to piping hot, depending on the spring) and a myriad of hydrotherapy treatments, such as kinesiotherapy and hydromassage, physiotherapy treatments, and everything from mud baths, facials and beyond. All it takes to reap the benefits of the spring waters - whose healing properties are due either to their temperatures or rare mineral properties - is to hop into one’s sensible swimsuit and swim cap and jump in.
30 insider athens | February 2014
Wellness
14
The curative waters at Edipsos are perhaps the most historically documented springs. And certainly the most accessible one to Athenians. Located approximately two-and-a-half hours away from Athens, Aristotle and Plutarch described the powers the gurgling waters of Edipsos had over the human body. During Roman times, thermal springs formed popular meeting grounds amongst the empire’s elite. Bathing in the springs such as Sylla, whose 37-degrees waters are the same temperature as the human body, are still thought to aid conditions including rheumatoid arthritis, dermatological conditions such as eczema, gynaecological issues, lung problems and disorders of the nervous system. The curative waters are said to contain an abundance of metal salts and trace elements of iron, calcium and magnesium and spring out from wells 3,000 meters deep.
back to Edipsos’ jet-setting roots. If the promise of youth and rejuvenation in the mysterious waters at Thermae Sylla, festooned with its magical, mystical properties isn’t motivation enough, the indulgent pampering at the hotel’s spa should definitely spur you on to book a room immediately.
The very first government of Modern Greece thought fit to form a scientific committee in 1830 to analyze and rank the country’s thermal springs. In 1845, Greece’s Queen Amalia, herself a frequent visitor to thermal spas, began the process of building the facilities to encompass the country’s thermal springs. The construction of the country’s spring towns were at their prime in 1935. In the 20th century, towns such as Edipsos were again a cosmopolitan meeting ground, where international and Greek figures such as Winston Churchill, Aristotle Onassis, Maria Callas, Kostis Palamas, Greta Garbo and Omar Sharif all came to soak in the thermal waters.
Words of advice for first-timers:
Ranked as one of the 10 best thermal spas in the world by Conde Nast Traveler, and voted the best hotel spa in Greece by Philoxenia Tourist Awards, the five-star Thermae Sylla Spa & Wellness hotel (tel 2226060100, www.thermaesyllaspa-hotel.com) is an elegantly restored 19th-century building - an upscale alternative that harkens
Just a few of the offerings include - spa aficionados take note - an interior pool with mineral spring water, an external sea-water pool, 20 spring-water programmes tailored for different needs, massages and facial treatments with thermal mud, metallic salts, mineral spring water or grape paste. Room rates are from 69 euros. Get ready to get transformed. www.thermaesylla.gr
• Before dipping in, visitors to the springs are advised to visit the spa centre’s doctor and follow his or her directions. • The treatments at the springs should be started on an empty stomach, at least three hours after a meal. • Don’t stay in the springs over the advised time period. • Avoid exfoliating too much in the days spent soaking in the waters, in order to not remove the layer of beneficial salts. • Keep sunbathing sessions to a minimum. • Avoid extreme and hasty temperature changes. • During hydrotherapy treatments, bathers often experience a temporary worsening of their conditions, due to detoxification. Visit one of the on-duty doctors if the problem continues. • Accompany the bathing sessions with a balanced diet free of processed foods, and make use of the fresh air and exercise facilities attached to the spas.
insider athens | February 2014 31
A luxurious retreat in the countryside
32 insider athens | February 2014
Getaway
The Grand Forest hotel in Metsovo that just opened a month ago, combines its exquisite location on a hilly mound that towers over Metsovo town, with its high standards and aesthetics
A
s the pictures bear testimony, The Grand Forest in Metsovo, promises to be a getaway that seamlessly combines it all: uncluttered luxury, unspoilt nature and unpretentious cuisine. The over-abundance of adjectives beginning with ‘un’ only emphasis what hotels here have striven to dwell on. What a pleasure it is to find a hotel that is shorn of all the superficiality and focuses on things that truly matter for a luxurious experience. Nestled in a pristine pine forest strewn with walking trails and picnic corner, the hotel is just a 15 minute ride away from the quaint little Metsovo town and is conveniently located just a few kilometres off the Egnatia highway. Determined to make first-time visitors repeat customers, the accent here is on extremely high standards in every aspect of the guest experience. So they have enrolled the culinary genius of Chef Ettore Botrini to create a menu that reflects Metsovo’s rich gastronomic traditions and its local produce. The idea is to create a destination within a des-
tination and to tempt lovers of good food to seek out the sprawling Metsovo restaurant only to come and savour an exquisite meal. In the same vein, the Fontus spa here combines the latest state-of-the-art wellness systems with highly trained staff to make it a destination for those looking for a detox holiday. Named after the Roman God of springs, the spa’s treatments are based on local herbs and is managed by Aegeo Spas who operate a network of 22 hotel spas all over Greece. The Grand Forest Metsovo Hotel is also an ideal retreat for corporate conferences as it has fully equipped conference and banquet rooms that can seat upto 400 participants, theatre style. A getaway for all seasons, here is an address for long weekends throughout the year. The Grand Forest, Metsovo. www.grand-forest.gr
insider athens | February 2014 33
Man seeks alternative health high I
mostly make films, which can be a fascinating and rewarding process. But it isn’t, I admit, the least stressful activity. So what better way to start off an Athens year than by planning a one-day holistic health binge? Don’t laugh: we blokes are allowed to do these things too now. Luckily it turns out that there are plenty of other places for a man to get a health kick in Athens. So here, in the end, is what occurred. 9am Healthy breakfast In the spirit of good karma, I decided to ease into the day’s events very slowly. I enjoy a lie-in and lazy start, a cup of black tea, a banana and a freshly blended carrot, ginger and apple juice smoothie. So far, so good. 10am Cycle up Mount Hymmetus Yes, really. I got on my bike and cycled up from Pangrati, through the university campus and most of the way up Hymmetus, to take the mountain air. I stopped at a viewing area at the top of the tree line, to see if I still had the use of my legs, catch my breath and take in the fantastic view across the city. Feeling a fraction closer to nature, I freewheeled back down at reckless speeds and arrived home nicely elated. After a quick shower and carrot juice to get sugar levels back up, I prepared myself for the serious business to start: time for lunch. 12.30pm Organic lunch Nice n’ easy has a cheerful interior, very friendly staff and a full menu range - I’d forgotten that organic doesn’t mean veggie. They had tempting specials ranging from salmon to pork to chicken - but in the spirit of the day and with exercise to come, we did opt for the green
34 insider athens | February 2014
stuff. Tasty but not heavy, without too much oil or salt. I almost felt ready for my next assignment: a very unusual siesta. 2pm Salt Cave meditation It was a short ride to City Plaza on Vouliagmenis Avenue, which houses a unique and somewhat quirky nook called Crystalotherapy. I was intrigued. A wooden door leads into a glowing mystical cavern. The walls are built from solid blocks of salt rock mineral from Pakistan and Poland, the floor from smaller Dead Sea grains. The net result is that the air inside is super-enriched with microelements of salt: sea iodine, calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron and sodium. They say that 45 minutes in here is equivalent to three days of exposure to the clean air and aura of the sea. Bingo. Ambient lighting, comfy lazy boytype chairs, a waterfall and tinkly music made for a relaxing time in there. I did feel noticeably calm and felt my joints unwind. The owner discovered the therapeutic benefits of salt caves while in Poland, and decided that this would be the perfect antidote to hectic Athens life. Spending time in there is supposed to be great for seniors (particularly those with bone aches and thyroid problems), for those suffering from headaches or general tension/stress, or those with dermatological or peptic issues. 3.15pm ‘Extreme’ pilates Another short walk back across the street and I was at Holmes Place, Glyfada. I reached the super-gym a little late, so dashed past serried ranks of the fighting fit to change and was into a large exercise studio in no time. The session was about to start, so I grabbed a mat and, to my surprise, was pointed in the direction of a large, colourful bouncy ball. The class was popular. I had no idea that such muscles existed
Wellbeing special
3b5
Richard Mullane twangs his tendrils in a 24-hour holistic binge that combines mountain biking and nutritious eating with a salt spa siesta, bouncy ball balancing and a sensational four-hand massage deep within my abdomen: we sat on the ball;we did sit-ups and pressups on it;we stretched our ham- and lateral strings to their limits; I actually knelt on top of the ball for a terrifying moment. Sweat began to pour off me and 40 minutes later I was shaking quite uncontrollably in certain positions. With the day’s competing activities, I feared that my yin was in danger of cross-dressing as yang, my chakra of getting my chi in a headlock and my karma of developing omni-absence. I needed to square my holistic circle: what better way than with a Thai massage? 6pm Alternative massage Back to the centre. I am now at the Olive Tree Spa, a place that I had been assured would give me a vigorous working over, not a makeover. It was beautiful inside - all candles, drapes and lovely people. Before long, I was lying on a sofa-sized slab, on the receiving end of the kind of hands-on treatment overpaid footballers could only dream of. The session began with a full Thai body massage. This was sensational. Every sinew got a seeing to, starting with my shoulders and neck, down my back, arms, legs and feet, right down to each toe. About half an hour in, I was mesmerised and had to be shaken out of a stupor when asked to turn over. I obliged, and as the expert hands began working my calves and ankles, I couldn’t quite believe what happened next. A second pair of hands began gently to knead my face and scalp, working into a full Indian head massage. I can honestly say that the next few minutes were among the most astonishing of my life. I was in heaven from head to toe. At a point that I can’t remember, four hands again became two, and as part of the face massage, various creams and unctions were gently applied to my mug. Apparently, less than 3% of their clients are men. Well chaps, the experience was life-affirming and I could not recommend it highly enough.
Nice n’ easy
• Glyfada Salt Cave: Vouliagmenis 85 & Antheon, Tel. 210.964.2542, www.glyfadasaltcave.com.gr • Holmes Place: Gr. Lambraki 83, Glyfada, Tel: 210.969.0096, www.holmesplace.gr • Olive Tree Spa: Chatzigiani Mexi 4, Tel. 210.724.4425, www.olivetreespa.gr • Nice n’ easy: Omirou 60 & Skoufa, Kolonaki, Tel: 210.361.7201, www.niceneasy.gr
Olive Tree Spa
insider athens | February 2014 35
Snow motion Graham Wood slopes off to the Peloponnese peaks for a powder-induced high. Strictly legal, of course
O
n any normal bleak winter morning the inane buzzing of the alarm clock at 6.30am is about as welcome as a trip to the dentist for a session of root canal surgery. Not on the first day of a new ski season, however. Such is the popularity of summer tourism that a winter break here may barely register on the radar. But, if it hadn’t crossed your mind before, your best winter sports experience ever could be right here at your doorstep. During the December to April ski season - snow permitting, obviously - more than 20 resorts operate across the country. And while they may be unable to match the après ski glamour of their more modern, affluent European counterparts, the beautiful settings, reasonable prices and ambience of picture-postcard mountain villages more than make up for it. My favourite spot is Vasilitsa, in the prefecture of Grevena. Unfortunately with the distance involved (around 6-7 hours by car) I can’t get there as much as I’d like, so Kalavryta in the Peloponnese is my staple winter weekend destination. And it is there where I have slowly improved my snowboarding skills - a continuous work-in-progress. If you’ve never tried snowboarding, there is a whole Pandora’s box of discovery waiting for you. Speaking for myself, since discovering it in 2003, what I thought would be a short-term fling has blossomed into a full-blown relationship. There is something about the fun and camaraderie associated with snowboarding that makes it such an addictive sport. I was ultrafortunate enough to learn my trade from former USA 50+ champion Ron Royston, who (luckily for me) was the uncle of a friend of mine.
36 insider athens | February 2014
Located on the northwest side of the Helmos mountain range, 203 kilometres from Athens, Kalavryta is by no means the largest of Greece’s resorts but has become a popular spot in recent years and has a great beginner’s area to take your first tentative tumbles, turns and rides. In operation since 1988, there are 12 trails with a range of difficulty from beginner to the difficult Stiga 1 and 2 trails from the 2,340m summit - where on a clear day you are treated to a sea-view as well as excellent off-piste skiing and snowboarding among clusters of pine trees. Kalavryta also offers free lifts for beginners as well as student discounts and the lively chalet at the base of the mountain often hosts memorable parties in the evening. The village of Kalavryta itself - 14km from the ski centre - is itself a gem. It has its place assured in the hearts of Greeks for its association with the struggle against Turkish occupation in 1821 and the Nazi massacre of over a thousand villagers for resistance activities during WWII. An old schoolhouse has been converted into a museum dedicated to the memory of those killed and is well worth a visit, alongside several nearby monasteries. Equipment can be rented on the mountain but there are several rental outlets in and around the town where prices are more reasonable. A range of accommodation can be found via the website (www.kalavrita-ski.gr), while for those seeking a more luxurious option can look to Helmos Hotel (www.hotelhelmos.gr) or the Castle Resort perched just above the town (www.castleresort.gr). February usually ushers in some of the best conditions with regular fresh snowfalls. Indeed, it was this time last year when even the Acropolis was covered with a layer of white icing after a snow deluge across the country. What better way to spend Valentine’s with the apple of your eye than a weekend in a snowy resort - action on the slopes by day, roaring fireplaces and fine wine by night?
Action hero
RON ROYSTON’S GOLDEN RULES FOR SNOWBOARDERS want to turn, look where you want to turn and 1 Ifturnyouyour head first. The rest of your body will follow.
2 Always distribute your weight 50-50 on each foot on the board.
3 Keep each arm balanced on either side of the board. 4 Never expect to master the first 3 rules in one day. WINTER SPOTS Parnassos:
Greece’s largest ski centre is located 180km from Athens and features 13 lifts and 18 trials covering 22 kilometres in total. Arahova, 17km away, is a hub of activity, with many visitors choosing to use it as their base rather than stay in the many smaller and more cosy chalets and hotels on the route towards the ski centre. See www.parnassos-ski.gr or www.arachova.gr
Vasilitsa: Situated in the prefecture of Grevena, the resort is 417km from Athens and 250km from Thessaloniki in the heart of the Pindos mountain range. Great quality and quantity of snow makes Vasilitsa hugely popular with snowboarders. There are three chalets, 7 lifts and 16 trails in total. See www.vasilitsa.com or www.snow-vasilitsa.gr
Kaimaktsalan: Greece’s highest altitude ski resort, Kaimaktsalan is known as the ‘Arahova of the North’. What was previously the abandoned settlement of Agios Athanasios has now been transformed into one of northern Greece’s most picturesque mountain villages. See www.kaimaktsalan.gr Other useful websites: www.kalavrita-ski.gr, www.meteo.gr, www.snowreport.gr, www.snow-forecast.gr
insider athens | February 2014 37
Beauty «Candy Bar» palette 2 en 1, available at Sephora
John Varvatos’ new perfume, Artician aqua, available at Notos
Wild Rose, peeling mask, available at Korres
Bullet proof brows, in shades of taupe, available at Sephora
Elie Saab, Le Parfum, available at Notos
Sweetheart blush, in shades of peach beach, available at Sephora
Chocolate seduction A few tips to turn on the fireworks this Valentine’s
Brightmud box, eye treatment, available at Sephora
• Korres: Ermou 4 & Nikis, Syntagma, Tel.: 210.321.0054 • Notos Galleries: Stadiou & Aiolou, Omonia, Tel.: 210.324.5811 • Sephora: Ermou 24, Syntagma, Tel.: 210.331.3167. Milioni 2, Kolonaki, Tel.: 210.362.9925
38 insider athens | February 2014
Allison Janney in a radiant orchid gown on the red carpet at the 65th Emmy’s awards
Agora
Purple
Power Tom Baker unique handbags, available at www.tedbaker.com Ring in amethyst, 18k gold and diamonds, available at el. marneri galerie
Essie nail polish, radiant orchid shades, available at Lawrence Barth
While the 2013 colour of the year, Pantone 17-5641 Emerald, served as a symbol of growth, renewal and prosperity, 2014’s Radiant Orchid blooms with confidence and magical warmth that intrigues the eye and sparks the imagination. It is an expressive, creative and embracing purple—one that draws you in with its beguiling charm. A captivating harmony of fuchsia, purple and pink undertones, Radiant Orchid emanates great joy, love and health.
Anne et Valentin stylish sunglasses, available at www.anneetvalentin.com
Lip stick, in radiant orchid shades, available at Sephora
All Star shoes in radiant orchid colour, available at Converse
Contemporary chair, available at www.edilportale.com
A fashionable sound box, available at www.insider.pure.com • Converse: Shopping House Theomitiros 41, Alimos, Tel: 210.985.3450 • el.marneri galerie: Lebessi 5-7 & Porinou 16 Str, Makriyanni, Tel: 210.861.9488 • Lawrence Barth: Mavromateon 2A, Athens, Tel: 210.883.3894 • Sephora: Ermou 24, Syntagma, Tel: 210.331.3167. Milioni 2, Kolonaki, Tel: 210.362.9925
insider athens | February 2014 39
Holistic bliss In Ekali, at Life Gallery’s Orloff spa, the clock temporarily stops as the pampering begins. Athens Insider reports.
40 insider athens | February 2014
Wellness
D
one up in the warm hues of rich purple fuchsia, the earthy scented vapour of ylang ylang and patchouli suffusing the atmosphere, just stepping into one of the treatment rooms and lying on the heated mattresses is worth the spa experience. By the time one enters the ‘state-of-the-art’ wet area with its aquatic circuit, complete with jacuzzi, hammam, sauna and shower path, one is steamed, sole-soothed at the reflexology foot fountain, oxygenated in the indoor pool and massaged by water-jets. The only thing that can drag one away from that blissful state of deep relaxation is the promise of more.
14
Special energy treatments that work on the body’s aura or the human energy field and the energy centres (Chakras) are also available at the Orloff Spa. These treatments restore the natural flow of the vital life force energy in the body by working on energetic blockages and thus enhancing the ability of the body to heal itself (auto-iasis) and harmonize the body-mind-soul system. For a truly holistic spa experience, look no further. www.lifegallery.gr
Opt for either a rejuvenating Valmont Beauty flash or an Ayurveda full body massage. Each action performed by the therapist is executed with such confident detail that it is hard to resist drifting away. A preparatory scrub is not simply removed, it is slowly massaged away with a moist, preheated towel. After some deep tissue massage that works away at your sore muscles, one is snugly wrapped up and given a scalp massage with rejuvenating oil while your muscles and joints are warmed and hydrated. The outcome quite simply is one of the most elusive conditions for western city dwellers: a clear mind. Posttreatment, disconnect yourself from the trials and tribulations of the outside world by unwinding in the meditation room with a view of the serene waters and lush pine trees. For those who’d like to experience the deep cleansing rituals rooted in North African tradition, the beautiful mosaic-walled and led-lighted hammam can accommodate up to six persons.
insider athens | February 2014 41
Spice up the
romance
Who needs a Venetian gondola, a four-poster in a chateau or a carriage ride around Central Park if you’ve got a glass of bubbly in your hand, aromas of a gourmet feast being cooked up especially for you wafting through from the kitchen, the love of your life sitting opposite, and the Acropolis glowing golden on the skyline? If you’re lucky enough to be spending Valentine’s Day in Athens with your beloved, indulge in a romantic feast at one of the city’s gourmet restaurants. And for carefree singletons, don’t write off the night as a schmaltz-fest for smug marrieds. Those delicious dishes oozing with rich and decadent ingredients and bottles of chilled Champagne taste just as scrumptious with a merry group of friends as they do a deux. Perhaps even better. A round-up of Valentine’s treats in the city.
Love is in the air For Valentine’s Day, the atmospheric restaurant Olive Garden, perched on the roof of Hotel Titania promises a gourmet dinner gently illuminated by the glow of the Parthenon, which looms majestically above. The treat includes a 5-course menu, live music and songs. Chef Alexander Charalampopoulos takes diners on a gastronomic journey, starting with a cocktail followed by sweet pumpkin veloute, swordfish and shrimp with tapioca with a refreshing passion fruit sorbet, beef braised in vacuum and for a sweet end to the evening, chocolate fantasies with rose and strawberry. Priced at 42 € per person and includes free parking. To book, call 210.332.6000.
42 insider athens | February 2014
St. Valentine’s special
4
That’s amore! As any diner who has tasted the gourmet delights at the NJV Athens Plaza would expect, the chefs here are cooking up a storm for Valentine’s Day with a menu to ravish the senses. This creative feast warms up the taste buds with an introductory green salad with marinated cucumber and pumpkin and crawfish sautéed with grapefruit sauce accompanied by poached fillet of sea bass with red peppers and followed by palate-pleasing tenderloin stuffed with gruyere from Naxos and pink pepper. Finally, to finish on a sweet but light note, try the cremeux passion fruit with banana in crispy hazelnut sauce from roses and pomegranates. Priced at 45 € per person including a glass of sparkling wine as welcome drink, white or red wine from Domaine Tselepou and live music. To reserve, call 210.335.2400.
Rooftop romance With its stylish décor, panoramic views of Athens and award-winning cuisine, the Première restaurant atop the Athenaeum InterContinental Hotel is an unashamedly romantic option for St Valentine’s Day. Chef Mettayer creates a themed Valentine’s menu with a 5-course meal, 1 glass of champagne for each guest and live music, with a spectacular view of the Acropolis! Priced at 75€ per person. For confirmed reservations at Première, free parking is offered. To book, ring 210.920.6000.
A night to remember Why not follow a romantic evening and continue the night in style at a suite at the Life Gallery? The luxurious Ekali landmark offers couples a special Valentine’s deal including a sumptuous dinner for two with award-winning Chef Lazarou working his magic on your palate for just 45 euros per person including a welcome cocktail but excluding wine. Or follow up the dinner with an overnight stay and 10% off on all treatments at the Orloff Spa for 190€ per couple (includes the welcome drink, dinner, double room and spa discounts; excludes wine). To book, call 211.10.67400.
insider athens | February 2014 43
The food of
love La Chocolatière’s Yannie Katsandris suggests a few seductive options for unforgettable Valentine’s Day feasts
Photos: Photoharrie
44 insider athens | February 2014
Gastronomy
A
t a chef’s table organized by La Chocolatière, eight lucky guests were fortunate to savour young and promising Chef Yiannie Katsandris’ creative cuisine. A few of his simple, yet distinctive suggestions for a perfect dinner to spice up the romance.
THE WRAP Using Swiss chard or spinach leaves, steam and gently hand dry. For the filling, mix grated Parmigiano with fresh whole-wheat breadcrumbs and a little pressed garlic, then add in a few drops of good quality balsamic vinegar to taste. Roll up as you would a dolmadaki, it looks like a small cylinder with the edges tucked in.
SPICED ROOSTER WITH GREEN TOMATO MARMALADE, HERBS AND SLOW COOKED BABY POTATOES IN BROTH Ingredients for 4 • 1 rooster (aprx 1.3 kg) deboned and spatchcocked - ask your butcher to do that (keep the bones) • 1/2 bunch rosemary, sage, parsley, thyme finely chopped (keep the stalks) • 200gr green tomato marmalade • 1tbp honey • 300gr butter • 300gr breadcrumbs • Salt, freshly cracked pepper Preparation Mix all the ingredients in a bowl until you have a soft paste, season to taste. Spread the paste inside the rooster and roll it firmly and tie it with a string, leave it in the fridge for 40 min so that the butter hardens, sauté the meat in a very hot pan for about 5min and place it in a preheated oven for 50 min at 190C / Mark 5. For the sauce • 1 onion finely chopped • 2 cloves of garlic • Juice of 2 lemons • Rooster bones • 1 bay leaf • 2 tbsps olive oil • herb stalks • 50 ml white wine
Preparation Place the bones in a casserole and allow them to simmer for at least 1hr. In another casserole, sauté the onions first, then add the garlic for 2 min until they are transparent, add the wine, the stalks and the bay leaf and slowly add the broth. Bring it to the boil and simmer for 45 min or until you have a thick sauce. Remove the stalks, season with salt and pepper, add the lemon juice. For the potatoes • Keep the remaining broth • 200 gr butter • Salt, pepper Preparation Boil the potatoes, drain them and allow them to cool. Cut them in half and place them in a casserole with the broth and the butter. Half cover the potatoes with the liquid - simmer until they get a golden colour. Add the butter, salt and pepper.
CHOCOLATE MARQUISE Recipe for 6 • 250 gr. dark chocolate min. 60% cocoa solids • 100 gr. sugar • 200 gr. good quality butter, softened • 6 eggs - separated Preparation Break the chocolate in pieces and melt it in a bain-marie or in the microwave. Add sugar, yokes and butter mixing by hand with a spatula, incorporating as much air in the mix as you can, while you stir to a smooth cream. Keep the mix in a warm place, so that it does not solidify. Beat the egg whites into a meringue (hard peaks) and fold into the first mix in two batches (1/3 the first time and 2/3 of it the second time). Pour into a mould and keep refrigerated for 24 hrs. Decorate with cocoa nibs for an intense, deep chocolatey flavor. Serve with crème anglaise on the side if you wish.
For catering enquiries for special occasions, contact: Tel: 210 7772721 Email: evip@lachocolatiere.gr, www.lachocolatiere.gr
insider athens | February 2014 45
Restaurants
Mediterranean goodness in an elegant setting
46 insider athens | February 2014
Restaurants
Perched on the seventh floor of the King George, A Luxury Collection Hotel, the Tudor Hall Restaurant is very likely destined to be the new favourite haunt for leisurely breakfasts, business lunches and unhurried dinners. Bearing all the expectations of its regal name, The Tudor Hall Restaurant not only exudes understated opulence, its cuisine evokes nostalgia and emotion.
I
f ever there has been a consistent culinary trend in Greece in the past couple of years, it has been a strong desire to re-discover the simplicity and freshness of conventional comfort foods and to keep the construction of the dish as uncomplicated and clean as possible. Executive Chef Sotiris Evangelou does just that by re-creating traditional cuisine with a modern, refined twist that relies on seasonal produce to evoke childhood memories and stirrings of emotions that only a beautifully cooked meal can induce. Following the seasons implies a frequently updated menu to reflect the produce and culinary customs of the relevant period and so the restaurant constantly throws up a surprise - even for regulars. Accompanying Chef Evangelou’s creative cuisine is an extensive wine list culled by sommelier Evangelos Psofidis from the finest Greek vineyards. Start your meal with the veggie goodness of a briam, or a crunchy octopus with grilled eggplants or the sheer succulence of a sun-kissed tomato salad with croutons and marinated anchovy. For flavours from the depths of the Aegean, try Greece’s own version of the bouillabaisse, kakavia with rockfish and seafood. The main-course is a toss-up between meat or seafood but our recommendations would be either a slow-cooked, braised veal cheek with orzo, a crisp roast chicken marinated in yoghurt, honey and thyme, an olive crusted grouper or Mikrolimano shrimp. Pastry chef Eugene Vardakastanis adds his special flourish with an
original dessert menu that plays between chocolate and time-honoured Greek pastries such as ravani semolina cake, and Greek yoghurt with fruits and honey. With the Acropolis dominating the skyline, the view from the restaurant offers a sweeping vista of the city’s other landmarks - the Greek Parliament, the National Gardens and the Kalimarmaro stadium. The perfect setting for a drink before or after dinner and if you’re adventurous, the bartenders here are reputed to be among the best mixologists in the city, concocting the right cocktails to match the mood and occasion. Daily Opening Hours: Breakfast: 06:30 - 11:00, Lunch: 13:00 - 18:00, Dinner: 18:00 - 1:00 For reservations, contact 210.333.0265 or 210.333.0000 www.tudorhall.gr
insider athens | February 2014 47
Insider guide refer to corresponding area for more information and contact details
restaurant index by type AMERICAN JACKSON HALL Kolonaki TGI FRIDAY’S Kolonaki
ASIAN Golden Phoenix Kifissia Keep Woking Glyfada Noodle Bar Syntagma NUI Kifissia Wagamama Maroussi
BAR - RESTAURANTS Apsendi Halandri BACARO Omonia BALTHAZAR Mavili Sq BARAONDA Mavili Sq Café Zoe Syngrou CASH Kifissia CINCO Kolonaki Dirty Ginger Gazi En Plo Vouliagmeni Bar Explorer’s Lounge Syntagma Gazarte Gazi GINGER Mavili Sq ISLAND Vouliagmeni KITCHEN BAR Faliro & Halandri MAMACAS Gazi NIXON Kerameikos OSTERMAN Syntagma PARKO ELEFTHERIAS Mavili Sq SEMIRAMIS RESTAURANT Kifissia SHOWROOM Kolonaki Sofa Bar Vouliagmeni Step by step Halandri
CHINESE China’s Fantasy Psychico Saipan Halandri
FISH RESTAURANTS Ai Nikolas Syngrou CAPTAIN JOHN’S Piraeus ITHAKI Vouliagmeni JIMMY AND THE FISH Piraeus KASTELORIZO Kifissia MILOS Hilton MYTHOS OF THE SEA Vouliagmeni PAPADAKIS Kolonaki Psaroma Halandri THALATTA Gazi TO 25ARAKI Glyfada ZEFYROS Piraeus
FISH TAVERNAS Almyra Halandri DOURAMBEIS Piraeus Fish Co. Platters Psychico Ichthyes Kifissia KOLLIAS Piraeus RAFALE Vouliagmeni Piperia Psychico PSARAKI Vouliagmeni Sardelaki Glyfada Trata Omonia TRATA O STELIOS Pangrati VASSILENAS Piraeus
FRENCH Gaspar Food and Mood Psychico L’ABREUVOIR Kolonaki LE PETIT SOMMELIER Faliro MONO WINE RESTAURANT Plaka SPONDI Pangrati
48 insider athens | February 2014
GOURMET ALERIA Kerameikos AVENUE Syngrou Bo Botrini’s Halandri KUZINA Thissio Fuga Mavili Sq Funky Gourmet Kerameikos F+W Kolonaki GALAZIA HYTRA Vouliagmeni HYTRA Syngrou KOOL LIFE Kifissia Orizontes Lycavyttou Kolonaki P-Box Kolonaki Polly Magoo Metaxurgeio PremiEre Syngrou VAROULKO Kerameikos
GREEK 2 MAZI Plaka 310 Street Psychico Archeon Gefsis Metaxurgeio ATHIRI Kerameikos Berdema Kifissia Bluefield Burger Psychico CUCINA POVERA Pangrati Dioskouroi Psychico DIPORTO Psyrri ELAIS GI Kifissia ELIAS KOUKOUTSI Voula IDEAL Omonia KAVOURAS Exarhia Krithamos Psychico MANI MANI Acropolis MELILOTOS Monastiraki PSOMI & ALATI Halandri RAKOKAZANO Halandri Rena tis Ftelias Psychico Peacock Syngrou PROSOPA Gazi TO KOUTI Monastiraki YANTES Exarhia YDRIA Plaka
GRILL 1920 Halandri Meat Square Glyfada & Halandri Meatropoleos 3 Syntagma Telemachos Barbeque Club Kifissia
INDIAN BOLLYWOOD Gazi Indian Kitchen Syntagma Indian Masala Thissio ISKANDAR Alimos JAIPUR PALACE Kifissia KOHENOOR Gazi
INTERNATIONAL Ache Glyfada Food Mafia Glyfada Gefsis Me Onomasia Proelefsis Kifissia
ITALIAN 30 SOMETHING Halandri AGLIO OLIO Acropolis AL BACIO Vouliagmeni Albion Psychico Al Dente Glyfada AL FRESCO Vouliagmeni Aperitivo Glyfada
BOSCHETTO Kolonaki CANTUCCIO Psyrri CAPANNA Psyrri DA BRUNO Faliro DA VINCI Ag. Paraskevi di Antonio Halandri DULCIS IN FUNDO Voula GENOVESE Voula Il Salotto Glyfada Il Salumaio Kifissia Il Tinello Faliro IL TRAMONTO Vouliagmeni LA CASA DI GIORGINO Gyfada MANGIAMO BY MEAT SQUARE Kifissia Matilde Pizza Bar Gazi Matilde Pizza Bar Psychico Nanninela Ag. Paraskevi Ombra Psychico Pausa Maroussi Sale Bianco da Salvotoro Glyfada SALE E PEPE Kolonaki SCALA VINOTECA Kolonaki SILVER Casa Vouliagmeni TONY BONANO Piraeus VEZENE Hilton VINCENZO Glyfada
JAPANESE FURIN KAZAN Syntagma Hama Glyfada INBI Kolonaki KIKU Kolonaki MATSUHISA ATHENS Vouliagmeni
KOREAN Dosirak Syntagma
Kosher Gostijo Psyrri
LEBANESE BEIRUT Glyfada NARA NARA Psyrri NARGILE Kifissia
MEDITERRANEAN Alatsi Hilton BAKU Vouliagmeni BYZANTINO Hilton CAFE AVYSSINIAS Monastiraki Common Secret Kifissia DAPHNE’S RESTAURANT Plaka FATSIO Pangrati GB CORNER Syntagma HYTRA Plaka IDEAL RESTAURANT Omonia KOUZINA CINE-PSIRRI Psyrri MALABAR Vouliagmeni Mimaya Glyfada Mushroom Glyfada OCHRE & BROWN Psyrri PARLIAMENT Syntagma PRYTANEION Kolonaki RATKA Kolonaki Route Nationale 7 Glyfada STOU MEIDANI Monastiraki TO KOUTI Monastiraki ZORBAS Piraeus
MEXICAN AMIGOS Glyfada DOS HERMANOS Kifissia EL TACO BUENO Maroussi
Santa Fe Halandri
MEZEDES AND OUZO Antaios Psychico ATHINAIKON Omonia KIRKI Thissio OUZADIKO Kolonaki SCHOLARHEIO Plaka
MULTI ETHNIC Altamira Kolonaki
PERSIAN ANAHITA Halandri
PUB RESTAURANTS MOLLY MALONE’S Glyfada
RETRO Aneton Maroussi
ROOFTOP DINING ELECTRA Plaka IOANNIS Syntagma LE GRAND BALCON Kolonaki ORIZONTES LYKAVYTTOU Kolonaki ST’ASTRA Mavili Sq
RUSSIAN Barin Glyfada
SOUVLAKIA AND KEBAB BAIRAKTARIS Monastiraki BUTCHER’S SHOP Gazi DREAM GRILL Voula Gourounakia Kifissias Kifissia KALAMAKI KOLONAKI Kolonaki NAIADES Voula SAVVAS Monastiraki SCHARA Vouliagmeni Souvlaki Bar Thissio THANASSIS Monastiraki
SCANDINAVIAN SAFKA Kerameikos
SPANISH JAMON PINTXOS BAR Glyfada SALERO Exarhia
TAVERNAS FILIPOU Kolonaki LOUIZIDIS Vouliagmeni O Tzitzikas Ki O Mermigas Kifissia, Syntagma VLASSIS Hilton
THAI ROYAL THAI Kifissia TAMARIND Metaxurgeio
TURKISH Mutfak Glyfada
VEGETARIAN Avocado Syntagma Giouvetsakia Glyfada NICE N EASY Kolonaki Rosebud Kolonaki
WINE BARS FABRICA DE VINO Exarhia HETEROCLITO Syntagma L’Enoteca Halandri OINOSCENT Syntagma Vinifera Kifissia Whispers of wine Maroussi
Acropolis Gifts Greece is for Lovers Karyatidon 13A Tel: 210.924.5064 www.greeceisforlovers.com Tongue-in-cheek souvenirs for the discerning traveller
To advertise, contact ads@insider-magazine.gr
Marie Chantal Boutique
Ermenegildo Zegna
Rere Papa
Spefsippou 11, Tel: 210.722.2029 Old-fashioned chic for little princes and princesses
Skoufa 18, Tel: 210.361.3700 Home of fine fabrics and handsome tailor-finished suits
Skoufa 62, Tel: 210.364.4300 Distinctive creations by two young Greek women and other international imports
Mouyer
Voukourestiou 50 Tel: 210.364.1308 A haven of hip, carrying labels from Balenciaga to Martin Margiela to Marlene Birger
Kanari 8, Tel: 210.361.7714 Good-quality orthopaedic shoes as well as funkier styles
Free Shop
Anagnostopoulou 19, Tel: 210.361.6167 Elegant fashion with a contemporary twist
Syllektiko Paleopolio Asklipiou 41, Tel: 210.364.1718 Antiques of all sorts and restoration services
Flowers Fleria Patriarchou Ioakim 35, Tel: 210.722.9697
Vinyl Microstore
Yesterday's Bread
Kallidromiou 87-89, Tel: 210.881.1233 Imported second-hand clothes; individuality guaranteed
Kolonaki Antiques Kilim Hali Valaoritou 9, Tel: 210.363.7056 www.kilimhali.gr Antique carpets from around the world
Beauty &Cosmetics Apivita Solonos 6, Tel: 210.364.0560 Shop natural Greek cosmetics, get a prescription cream made up and have a quick massage
Harnn Shop Irakleitou 15, Tel: 210.364.5428 Beautifully packaged skincare and homespa products
Food & Wine Bespoke Athens
Cava Anthidis
Fashion
Kalogirou
Atelier Loukia
Patriarchou Ioakim 4, Tel: 210.335.6401 Fetish footwear from Prada, Tod's & Casadei
Kanari 24, Tel: 210.362.7334 Fairytale dresses in lace and embroidery from Greece's doyenne designer
Lacoste
Bespoke Athens
Solonos 5, Tel: 210.361.8030 French take on American sportswear
Anagnostopoulou 15-17 Tel: 210.364.5518, Made-to-measure suits and shirts from top international tailors
Iraklitou 9, Tel: 210.360.8315 Alber Elbaz's gloriously chic take on the classic French couture house
Boss Store
Lanvin
Linea Piu
Carouzos
Sekeri 6, Tel: 210 360.6125 Collections from exclusive fashion houses including Chanel, Galliano, Lagerfeld and Sonia Rykiel
Kanari 12, Tel: 210.362.7123 Designer items from Prada, Brioni, Donna Karan, Fendi and other top-flight brands
Skoufa 15, Tel: 210.363.5600 Designer emporium stocked with Chloe, Roberto Cavalli, Ralph Lauren, Missoni & more
Amerikis 19, Tel: 210.338.9080 Smart separates for a work wardrobe
Luisa
Deux Hommes
Marc by Marc Jacobs
Kanari 18, Tel: 210.361.4155 Greece's design ambassadors create structural separates and heavenly bridal gowns. www.deuxhommes.gr
Observatory Attitudes
Dior Boutique Voukourestiou 18-20, Tel: 210 361.3014 High-end designer fashion
Xanthou 3, Tel: 210.363.6030 Budget knick-knacks and must-have casuals from America's fashion hero
Paul & Shark
Jack in the Box
Anagnostopoulou 6, Tel: 210.339.2334 Casual yachting styles
Haritos 13, Tel: 210.725.8735 Beautiful wooden toys and more
Elina Lebessi
Preview
Iraklitou 13, Tel: 210.363.1731 Ethereal frocks, pretty tea-dresses and accessories from around the world
Patriarchou Ioakim 19, Tel: 210.722.4731 High fashion designer shoes
DKNY
Ypsilantou 13-15, Tel: 210.725.1050 Comprehensive wine and liquor wholesalers
Kylix Karneadou 20, Tel: 210.724.5143 Quality picks from the world’s best vineyards; including Greek labels
Wine Garage Xenokratous 25, Tel: 210.721.3175 Browser-friendly cava with helpful service
Gadgets Octopus Solonos 15, Tel: 210.363 6677 Quirky designs with a sense of humour
Gifts Benaki Museum Gift Shop Vas. Sofias & Koumbari Tel: 210.367.1045 Artefacts and jewellery inspired by the museum’s exhibits
Solonos 9, Tel: 210.364.6910 The ultimate fashion store www.attitudes.gr
Solonos 8, Tel: 210.360.3775 Classic American sportswear
Children
Patriarchou Ioakim 30-32 Tel: 210.725.8525 Original silk designs for scarves, ties, shawls & blouses
Vlassis Holevas
Exarhia
Didotou 34, Tel: 210.361.4544 New vinyls & cds; also reissues from the 60s & more
Thalassa Collection
Ilias Lalaounis museum
Central Athens
Insider guide Shop
insider athens | February 2014 49
Insider guide Shop
Liana Vourakis
Oxette
Anagnostopoulou 26-28, Tel. 2103617705
Skoufa 37, Tel: 210.339.0547 Trendy, affordable jewellery
Home
Ozzi Skoufa 30, Tel: 210.364.2139 Greek silver fashion jewellery
Christofle
Van Cleef & Arpels
Koumbari 5, Tel: 210.362.0483 Classis silver and crystal ideal for wedding gifts
Voukourestiou 1, Tel: 210.331.0319 The jeweller of the international jetset
La Fenetre Irodotou 21, Tel: 210.723.5029 Elegant objects and sophisticated gifts for the house, mostly from France
Parousiasi Patriarchou Ioakim 33, Tel: 210.723.7656, A range of international brands in crystal, china and other eye-catching homeware accessories
Jewellery Apriati Pindarou 29, Tel: 210.360.7878 Smartly designed necklaces, bracelets and rings
Elena Votsi Xanthou 7, Tel: 210.360.0936 Conversation-starting pieces in gold and stone
Fanourakis Patriarchou Ioakim 23 Tel: 210.721.1762, Unique collection of animal and insect pins & earrings
Monastiraki Antiques Darousos Normanou 7, Tel: 210.331.1638 Small antique shop in the heart of the flea market
Paleovivliopolio Hiotakis Normanou 7, Tel: 210.324.7835 Historic bookshop houses rare & old books
Food & Wine DELICATESSEN Arapian Evripidou 41, Tel: 210.321.7238 Old-style butcher shop offers interesting sausages, pasturma & smoked meats
Bahar Evripidou 31, Tel: 210.321.7225 Well-known herb haven
Miran Evripidou 45, Tel: 210.321.7187 Sausages, pastrami & cured meats
Folli Follie Tsakalof 6 & Solonos 25 Tel: 210.323.0739 Greece's high-street export stocks affordable watches and everyday bijoux
Pangrati
Liana Vourakis
Korres
Anagnostopoulou 26-8 Tel: 210.362.2564 For unique baptism and wedding gifts, start here
Ivikou 8 & Eratosthenous Tel: 210.722.2774 Natural Greek products made using Mediterranean herbs
50 insider athens | February 2014
BEAUTY & COSMETICS
Plaka
Syntagma
Antique stores
Accessories
Martinos Pandrosou 50, Tel: 210.321.2414 Specializes in 19th Century folk art, embroidery & furniture
Food & wine
Bag Stories Panepistimiou 41, Tel: 210.323.7405 Luggage & travel bags by Tumi, Porsche Design, Rimowa & Delsey
Antiques Antiqua
Mesogaia Nikis 52, Tel: 210.322.9146 Packaged & fresh speciality foods
Vassilis Amalias 2-4, Tel: 210.323.2220 One of the oldest antique stores in Athens
Gifts
Beauty & Cosmetics
Amorgos Kodrou 3, Tel: 210.324.3836 Hand-carved & painted furniture
Psyrri Fashion Christoforos Kotentos Sachtouri 3, Tel: 210.325.5434 Glamorous & unique designs
Home Notoshome Kratinou 5, Tel: 210.374.3000 Home dĂŠcor superstore
Fresh Line Ermou 30, Tel: 210.324.6500 Fresh organic cosmetics from Greece
MAC Ermou 44, Tel: 210.325.8260 International cosmetic brand for women who like to play with colour
Books Eleftheroudakis Panepistimiou 17, Tel: 210.325.8440 The largest foreign language bookstore in Greece
Department Stores attica Panepistimiou 9, Tel: 211.180.2600 Home to an array of luxury goods
Fokas Stadiou 41, Tel: 210.325.7770 Clothes, shoes and accessories for men, women & children
Fashion - Men’s Pagoni Akadimias 61, Tel: 210.363.9277 Selling ties and cufflinks since 1933
Shop Flowers
Jewellery
Dromoloulouda
Apriati
Voulis 15, Tel: 210.323.2321 Specializing in arrangements with wild flowers, many indigenous to Greece
Pentelis 9 & Mitropoleos, Tel: 210.322.9020 Smartly designed necklaces, bracelets and rings
Bulgari
Food & Wine
Voukourestiou 8, Tel: 210.324.7118 Opulent designs in jewellery, watches & accessories
Aristokratikon
Cartier
Cellier
Voukourestiou 7, Tel: 210.331.3600 Two floors of designs & timepieces by the prestigious Cartier maison
Chopard
Kriezotou 1, Tel: 210.361.0040 Speciality wine shop
Stadiou 2 & Vas. Georgiou 210.325.0555Legendary time pieces and jewellery.
Gadgets
Folli Follie
Public Syntagma Square, Tel: 210.324.6210, Five floors of gaming, gadgets & books
Gifts Graf Von Faber-Castell Boutique Panepistimiou 41, Tel: 210.321.8564 Traditional hand-held writing utensils
Kori Mitropoleos 13, Tel: 210.323.3534 Traditional & contemporary jewellery
Psarros 1917 Stadiou 3, Tel: 210.322.0908 Executive gifts and smoking accessories
Home Baccarat
Ermou 18, Tel: 210.323.0739 Trendy & affordable jewellery & accessories
Shoes
Gofas
Ermou 63, Tel: 210.322.7590 Pick up a pair of Manolo’s at half price!
Stadiou 3, Tel: 210.331.7540 High-end timepieces
Ilias Lalaounis Panepistimiou 6, Tel: 210.361.1371 Fabulous gold designs by famous Greek jeweller
Kessaris Panepistimiou 7, Tel: 210.323.2919 Wide range of luxury brand timepieces
Marathianakis Voukourestiou 21, Tel: 210.362.7118 Old-world shop known for its original & elegant designs
Omega Omega, the brand of James Bond and Nicole Kidman, has its own elegant boutique on Voukourestiou showcasing the brand’s collections Voukourestiou 2, Tel: 210.322.7682
Pentheroudakis Voukourestiou 19, Tel: 210.361.3187 Timeless pieces inspired by classical Greek design
Voukourestiou 21, Tel: 210.362.2863 Fine crystal from the venerable French luxury house
Zolotas Panepistimiou 10, Tel: 210.360.1272 Designs inspired by the antique & classical periods as well as contemporary collections by designers like Paloma Picasso www.zolotas.gr
Spiliopoulos
Vassilis Zoulias Old Athens Akadimias 4, Tel: 210.361.4762 Handmade shoes and handbags inspired by films of the 50s & 60s
Southern Athens
Karageorgi Servas 9, Tel: 210.322.0546 Handmade chocolates
Northern Athens
To advertise, contact ads@insider-magazine.gr
Glyfada Fashion Enny di Monaco Laodikis 41, Tel: 210.894.0153 Carefully selected designs by various international designers
Obervatory Attitudes A. Panagouli 17, Tel: 210.894.2113 The ultimate fashion store www.attitudes.gr
Jewellery ZerTeo Metaxa 24-26, Tel: 210.894.6682 Unique jewellery designs
Kifissia Fashion 21 Kifissia Kifissias 265, Tel: 210.801.3594 Extreme sport paraphernelia
Vassilis Zoulias Argyropoulou 1-3, Tel: 210.801.7023 Unique designs reminiscent of times past
Food & Wine Aristokratikon Argyropoulou 8, Tel: 210.801.6533 Decadent handmade chocolates
Bakaliko Ola Ta Kala Kifissias 238-240, Mela Shopping Centre, Tel: 210.808.9908 Quality Greek delicacies
Sorpresa Italiana Kiriazi 6-8, Tel: 210.801.7886, Authentic fresh Italian pasta, sauces, truffles & more
Stefanidis Finest Foods Dimitrios Square 13, Tel: 210.808.2191 Excellent European delicatessen
Varsos Kassaveti 5, Tel: 210.801.2472 Milk products & patisserie
Maroussi Golden Hall Kifissias 37A, Tel: 210.680.3450 131 high-end (and high-street) stores for anyone with a passion for fashion
The Mall Athens Andrea Papandreou 35 Tel: 210.630.0000 Shops, cinemas and food
Food & Wine Provence Posidonos 80, Tel: 210.898.1435 Gourmet French delicatessen
insider athens | February 2014 51
Central Athens
Insider guide Eat & Drink Acropolis EAT Aglio Olio & Peperonicino Porinou 13, Tel: 210.921.1801 Authentic Italian pasta in a cozy setting, accompanied by luscious salads and homemade dolci
Mani Mani Falirou 10 Tel: 210.921.8180 Peloponnesian specialities with Mediterranean touches
Exarhia EAT
Fabrica de Vino Em. Benaki 3, Tel: 210.321.4148 85 wine etiquettes and mini mezzes in an industrial environment
Kavouras Themistokleous 64, Tel: 210.381.0202 Dine while enjoying live Rebetika music
Salero Valtetsiou 51, Tel: 210.381.3358 Spanish and mediterranean cuisine in the heart of Exarhia
Yantes Valtetsiou 44, Tel: 210.330.1369 Modern Greek cuisine prepared with organic ingredients.
DRINK Circus Bar Navarinou 11, Tel: 210.361.5255 Attracts a hip and happening crowd in a cozy space
Ginger Ale
DRINK
Themistokleous 74, Tel: 210.330.1246 Enjoy a cocktail or a coffee in a retro pop atmosphere
Bars, Clubs & Lounges
Vox
Almaz
Arahovas 56 & Themistokleous Tel: 210.383.5811 One of the oldest summer cinemas in Athens is a picturesque place for a retro-tinged drink
Triptolemou 12, Tel: 210.347.4763 Lounge in a modern atmosphere while listening to music from around the world
Gazi EAT Bollywood Gazi Elasidon 29 & Konstantinoupoleos 44, Tel: 210.345.0041 Indian cuisine in an industrial setting
Butcher’s Shop Persefonis 19, Tel: 210.341.3440 Traditional psistaria serving grilled meat dishes
Kohenoor Triptolemou 41, Tel: 210.345.5762 Indian authentic specialties in a neat setting
Mamacas Persefonis 41, Tel: 210.346.4984 Modern taverna located in an old barrel warehouse offering traditional Greek fare
Matilde Pizza Bar Konstantinoupoleos 44, Tel: 210 3411878 Authentic Italian cuisine in a cozy setting
Prosopa Meg. Vasiliou 52 & Konstantinoupoleos 4 Tel: 210.341.3433, Delicious dishes in a warm atmosphere right beside the train tracks. A popular gay haunt.
Thalatta Vitonos 5, Tel: 210.346.4204 Fresh seafood creations
Dirty Ginger Triptolemou 46, Tel: 210.342.3809 Excellent cocktails, meat dishes and “hot” finger food
Gazarte Boutadon 32-34, Tel: 210.346.0347 Lounge bar with excellent views of the Acropolis, ethnic music and live events
Gasoline
Plastiko Sofroniou 12A, Tel: 210.341.0308 Excellent cocktails, reasonable prices, summer mood
Tapas Bar Triptolemou 44, Tel: 210.347.1844 Cocktails and tapas at the bar, just like in Spain
Villa Mercedes Andronikou & Tzaferi 11 Tel: 210.342.2380 Mega club ideal for all-night dancing
Hilton EAT Alatsi Vrassida 13, Tel: 210.721.0501 Exquisite Cretan specialties
Byzantino Athens Hilton Vas. Sofias 46, Tel: 210.728.1400 Traditional Greek recipes with a Mediterranean twist
DRINK Galaxy Bar Athens Hilton, Vas. Sofias 46, Tel: 210.728.1402 Rooftop cocktails in a chic atmosphere
Kerameikos EAT Aleria
Awarded Toque d’Or in
2013 Meg. Alexandrou 57, Tel: 210.522.2633 Adventurous Greek cuisine in a cosy setting
Milos
Athiri
Athens Hilton Vas. Sofias 46, Tel: 210.724.4400 Simply prepared local flavours. Guaranteed value for money
Plataion 15, Tel: 210.346.2983 Greek & Mediterranean cuisine in beautiful surroundings
Vezene
Funky Gourmet Voted on e of top 10 Paramythias 13
restaurant
Vrasida 11, Tel: 210723002 Modern bistrot serving seafood & cured beef
s in and Salaminos, Tel: 210 524 2727 Haute cuisine in art deco interior
Vlassis
Safka
Meandrou 15, Tel: 210.646.3060 & 210.725.6335, Family-run taverna serving traditional Greek food
52 insider athens | February 2014
Mani Mani
Gargittion 23Α, Tel: 210.346.9396 All day bar with freestyle music and interesting guest-nights
Regular
Europe
win
e Megalou Alexandrou 80-82, degusta t io Tel: 210 524 3340S ns Scandinavian cuisine
Eat & Drink Varoulko
Degustation menu at just 40 €
Filipou
To advertise, contact ads@insider-magazine.gr
Pireos 80, Tel: 210.522.8400 Seafood prepared by Michelin star-winning chef Lefteris Lazarou
Xenokratous 19, Tel: 210.721.6390 Home-cooked Greek taverna dishes
Simple ingredients, special flavours in a setting designed by Theodore Zoumboulakis
Inbi
Prytaneion
Kolonaki
Iraklitou 21, Tel: 210.339.2090 Sushi fusion
Milioni 7, Tel: 210.364.3353 Generous portions of Mediterranean fare
Jackson Hall
EAT Bakeries & Patisseries Cake Irodotou 15, Tel: 210.721.2253 For real American homemade cheesecake, brownies and more
Fresh Kriezotou 12, Tel: 210.364.2948/ Loukianou 21, Tel: 210.729.3453 Desserts and cakes
Restaurants Altamira Tsakalof 36A, Tel: 210.361.4695 Flavours of multiethnic cuisine
Boschetto Evangelismos Park, Tel: 210.721.0893 Italian food in a lush central setting
Milioni 4, Tel: 210.361.6098 Gourmet burgers with all the fixings
Kalamaki Kolonaki Ploutarhou 32, Tel: 210.721.8800 Souvlakia on the sidewalk have never been so trendy
Kiku Dimokritou 12, Tel: 210.364.7033 Fresh, beautifully presented sushi
L'Abreuvoir Xenokratous 51, Tel: 210.722.9106 Fine French cuisine
Le Grand Balcon St George Lycabettus Hotel, Kleomenous 2, Tel: 210.729.0711 Gourmet Greek cuisine
Nice n Easy Omirou 60 & Skoufa, Tel.: 210.361.7201 Gourmet cafe-restaurant with organic products and jazz music
Cafe Boheme
Orizontes Lycavyttou
Omirou 36, Tel: 210.360.8018 Welcoming nook with Greek cooking and more-ish cocktails
Lycabettus Hill, Tel: 210.722.7065 Gourmet dining with a spectacular view
Capanna
Ouzadiko
Ploutarchou 38 & Charitos, Kolonaki Tel: 210.724.1777 People-watching and authentic Italian fare
Karneadou 25-26, Tel: 210.729.5484 Traditional Greek appetizers & ouzo
Cinco Skoufa 52, Tel: 210.364.360 Stylish, lively tapas bar with great cocktails
Fokilidou 15 & Voukourestiou 47A Tel: 210.360.8621 Paros' legendary gourmet restaurant serving seafood in the heart of Athens
F+W
P-BOX
new
Xenokratous 49, Tel: 210.721.1146 Gourmet food by Oliver Campanha
Papadakis
Haritos 24, Periscope hotel Tel: 210.729.8556
Ratka Haritos 32, Tel: 210.729.0746 Popular haunt of the rich and almost famous, with cosmopolitan cuisine
For Creative Cuisine www.lachocolatiere.gr
Sale e Pepe Aristipou 34, Tel: 210.723.4102 Authentic Italian trattoria
Scala Vinoteca Sina 50, Tel: 210.361.0041 Mediterranean restaurant ideal for wining & dining
Rosebud Omirou 60 & Skoufa 40, Tel: 210.339.2370 All day hang-out with music ranging from jazz to famous soundtracks
Showroom
Skoufaki
Milioni 12, Tel: 210.364.6460 Missoni-designed interiors, serving unique Mediterranean flavours
Ten
TGI Friday’s Kolokotroni 35, Kefalari sq. Tel: 210.623.3945 American restaurant with real steak and barbecuesauce for casual dining!
DRINK Bars, Clubs & Lounges City Charitos 43, Tel: 210.722.8910 Modern aesthetics, mutli-culti crowd and soulful music
London str 72
new
Solonos 72, Tel: 693.951.1760, 690.607.3362 Union jacks and red telephone booths in an all day bar-restaurant
Skoufa 47-49, Tel: 210.364.5888 All time classic café bar Ploutarhou 10, Tel: 210.721.0161 One of the most popular hot spots in town
Cafés Da Capo Tsakalof 1, Tel: 210.360.2497 Long-established people-watching hangout
Peros Kolonaki Square, Tel: 210.364.5068 Enjoy a cup of java if you can find a spot
Tea To Tsai Soutsou & Likavitou, Tel: 210.338.8941 Tea & tea paraphernalia from around the world
Mai Tai Ploutarhou 18, Tel: 210.725.8306 Early evening cocktails in a laid-back atmosphere
To Tsai
Mavili Sq DRINK Balthazar Aleria
Milos Garden
Tsoha 27, Tel: 210.644.1215 Lovely garden and chic interior attracts a cool crowd
insider athens | February 2014 53
Insider guide Eat & Drink Baraonda Tsoha 43, Tel: 210.644.4308 Gourmet cuisine and funky beats
Briki Dorileou 6, Tel: 210.654.2380 Trendy hole-in-the-wall hangout
EAT Fuga Vas.Sofias & Kokkali 1, Tel: 210 724 2979 Italian inspired menu by chef Andrea Berton at the Athens Concert Hall
Ginger Dorileou 10-12, Tel: 210.645.1169 Original dishes and innovative combinations in an elegant atmosphere
St’Astra Alexadras 10, Tel: 210.889.4500 For an unforgettable roof-top dining experience
To Parko Eleftherias Next to Megaron Mousikis, Tel: 210.722.3784 Classic recipes and nice atmopshere in a lush green park
Metaxurgeio
Baraonda
Fuga
Savvas
Loukoumi Bar
Mitropoleos 86, Tel: 210.321.9919 Gyros & Middle Eastern dishes like pastourmali
Plateia Avissinias 3, Tel: 210.323.4814 An all day hang-out with good music, cool atmosphere and great views
Sigalas-Bairaktaris
Six Dogs
Monastiraki Sq. 2, Tel: 210.321.3036 Century-old restaurant serving a variety of fresh dishes
Avramiotou 6-8, Tel: 210.321.0510 A day&night cultural entertainment center and bar with a vivid 600m2 back-garden.
Souvlaki Bar Adrianou 7 & Thisiou 15, Tel: 210.515.0550
Stou Meïdani
Taf Normanou 5, Tel: 210.323.8757 Outdoor bar in a neoclassical building with arty atmosphere and great exhibitions
Archeon Gefsis
Sokratous 3 & Evripidou Tel: 210.324.9073, A menu that is sure to please with speciality oven dishes
Kodratou 22, Tel: 210.523.9661 Ancient Greek cuisine makes a unique comeback after 25 centuries
Thanassis
Omonia
Mitropoleos 69, Tel: 210.324.4705 A souvlaki lover’s paradise
EAT
Polly Maggoo
To Kouti
Leonidou 80 & Salaminos, Tel: 210 524 1120 Gourmet cuisine in a post-modern and industrial setting. New hot spot for the trendy
Adrianou 23, Tel: 210.321.3229 Mediterranean fare right next to the ancient agora
Tamarind
DRINK
Thai Kitchen, Kerameikou 51, Tel: 210.522.5945
360 Cocktail Bar
Monastiraki
A for Athens
EAT
EAT
Athinaikon Themistokleous 2, Tel: 210.383.8485 A traditional Greek ouzeri
Ifestou 2, Tel: 210.321.0006 Miaouli 2-4, Tel: 210.324.4244 An urban terrace with the most stunning view of the Acropolis
Panepistimiou 46, Tel: 210.330.3000 Greek classics in old-world decor
Trata Themistokleous 8 and Nikitara 9, Tel: 210.383.8531 Excellent fish taverna in the centre of Athens
Pangrati
Monastiraki Square 2 Tel: 210.321.3036 Old-world taverna serving traditional Greek fare
Trata o Stelios Anagenniseos Sq. 7-9, Tel: 210.729.1533 The best grilled fish in town
DRINK - LIVE BARS Half Note Jazz Club Trivonianou 17, Tel: 210.921.3310 A jazz club with great history, hostingimportant names from the international music scene.
Superfly Empedokleous 28-30, Tel: 211.404.6076 The new hot spot for retro gamers
Kynetou 7, Tel: 210.321.7407 Spcializing in regional dishes & live music on weekends
Melilotos 360 Cocktail Bar
Plaka EAT 2 Mazi Nikis 48, Tel: 210.322.2839 Creative gourmet dishes that change monthly
Daphne’s Restaurant
EAT
Lysikratous 4, Tel: 210.322.7971 Refined classic Greek dishes in a resplendent atmosphere
Cucina Povera
Electra
Evforionos 13 & Eratosthenous Tel: 210.756.6008, Greek cuisine with a menu that changes daily
Nikodimou 18-20, Tel: 210.337.0000 Roof-top dining with Greek cuisine
Fatsio
Venizelou Paleologou 4, Tel: 210.322.6711 Unpretentious gourmet cuisine
Café Avyssinias
54 insider athens | February 2014
2 Michelin star Pyrronos 5, s Tel: 210.756.4021 A mix of European & more exotic flavours. Voted one of the best in Athens
Ideal Restaurant
Bairaktaris
Kalamiotou 19, Tel: 210.322.2458 Greek-Mediterranean cuisine with fresh local ingredients
Spondi
Efroniou 5, Tel: 210.721.7421 Greek food & political gossip
Mono Wine Restaurant
Eat & Drink Scholarheio Tripodon 14, Tel: 210.324.1605 A traditional tray taverna with old fashioned decor & prices
Ydria Adrianou 68 & Eolou, Tel: 210.325.1619 Taditional Greek cuisine
Psyrri EAT
To advertise, contact ads@insider-magazine.gr
DRINK Bars, Clubs & Lounges
Try the
Kalua
Apollonos 6, Tel: 210.323.7720
Amerikis 6, Tel: 210.360.8304 Dance the night away in a chic environment
Ioannis
Leokoriou 8, Polish beers Tel: 210.325.1668 Tiny standing bar, ideal for socializing.
Royal Olympic Hotel, Ath. Diakou 28-34, Tel: 210.928.8400 Greek & Mediterranean cuisine with breathtaking views from the rooftop
Dude
Meatropoleos 3
Kalamiotou 14, Tel: 210.322.7130 Uptempo bar inspired by “Big Lebowski”
Mitropoleos 3, Tel: 210.324.1805 Modern greek grill restaurant
Syngrou
Noodle Bar
EAT
Cantina Social
Syntagma EAT
Diporto
Indian Kitchen
Apollonos 11, Tel: 210.331.8585 A congenial place to drop in for a quick noodle fix
Theatrou & Sokratous Tel: 210.321.1463 Old-world tavern offers bargain basics like salads, sardines & fava
Avocado
O Tzitzikas ki o Mermigas
Nikis 30, Tel: 210.323.7878 Vegetarian restaurant
Gostijo
Voulis 31-33, Tel: 210.323.3330 Japanese & Korean cuisine in the heart of Athens
Mitropoleos 12-14, Tel: 210.324.7607 Savoury Greek cuisine, perfectly combining modern & traditional elements
Aisopou 10 street, Tel: 210.323.3825 Kosher menu and mediterranean “repertoire”
Kouzina Cine-Psirri Sari 44, Tel: 210.321.5534 Mediterranean fare & eclectic music
Ochre & Brown Leokoriou 7, Tel: 210.331.2950 Mediterranean/French cuisine
Dosirak
Furin Kazan Apollonos 2, Tel: 210.322.9170 A Japanese favourite of expats & Athenians alike
GB Corner Hotel Grand Bretagne, Syntagma Square, Tel: 210.333.0750 Luxurious surroundings, Mediterranean cuisine
Osterman Agias Eirinis Sq, Tel: 210.324.3331 Mediterranean dishes, promising cocktail list in a setting where minimalism meets retro
Parliament Vas. Georgiou A & Stadiou Tel: 210.335.2400 International cuisine with Mediterranean accents
Paul Panepistiomiou 10, Tel: 210.722.4824 A true French patisserie
DRINK Bars, Clubs & Lounges Boutique Filellinon 15, Tel: 210.323.1315 Popular Athenian night spot
Eat
New: Tudor Hall Restaurant & Lounge, King George, Athens
Club
The concierge of the Grande Bretagne Hotel in Syntagma Square recommends:
New: Rakkan, Kifissia, Athens
Explorer’s Lounge NJV Athens Plaza, Syntagma Square, Tel: 210.335.2400, Magnificent cocktails and live jazz in an intimate atmosphere
Heteroclito Fokionos 2, Tel: 210.323.9406 A true wine destination with focus on Greek vineyards
Classic: Vlassis Restaurant, Ilissia, Athens
Oinoscent
Frequent wine
Voulis 44A Syntagma. tastings Tel: 210.322.9374 Trendy winebar
AiNikolas Syngrou Ave. 156, Tel: 210.923.2918 Original seafood dishes, fresh ingredients and simple elegant interior
Avenue Metropolitan Hotel, Syngrou Ave 385, Tel: 210.947.100 French bistrot inspired by Michel Roux
Café Zoe Athenaeum InterContinental, Syngrou Ave 89-93 Tel: 210.920.6655 Casual dining and terrific buffets for lunch and on Sundays
Hytra
Michelin star chef
Onassis Cultural Center Syngrou Ave 107-109, Tel: 217.707.1118, 210.331.6767 Creative gourmet Greek cuisine by Nikos Karathanos with stunning views
Kollias Syngrou Ave. 303, Tel: 210.940.8620 Excellent seafood in a pleasant Mediterranean atmosphere
Peacock Hotel Hera, Falirou 9, Tel: 210.923.6682 Traditional food with breathtaking Acropolis views
Première Athenaeum InterContinental, Syngrou Ave 89-93, Tel: 210.920.6981 Gourmet cuisine with splendid views
Thissio
Alternative: Funky Gourmet, Kerameikos, Athens
EAT Indian Masala
Classic: By the Glass, Athens Alternative: Cinco, Kolonaki, Athens Explorer’s Lounge
Ermou 129, Tel: 210.321.9412 Amazing Indian food at affordable price in a pleasant environment
insider athens | February 2014 55
Insider guide Eat & Drink Kirki
DRINK
Apostoplou Pavlou 31 Tel: 210.346.6960 Ideal for a lunch break
Istioploikos
Kuzina
Southern Athens
Adrianou 9, Tel: 210.324.0133 Inspired traditional recipes in a cozy arty environment
Piraeus EAT
Zannitsopoulou 8, Tel: 210.894.4247 Irish pub serving probably the best Irish Stew in Athens
Ak. Microlimanou, Tel: 210.413.4084 One of the hip places to see and be seen with a rooftop bar overlooking the yachting marina
Mushroom new
Labraki & Ag. Nikolaou 48, Tel: 210.960.3943 Menu with emphasis on mushrooms with cosy, wood decor. Try the cocktail with mushrooms
Katafigio Ak. Koumoundourou 4, Tel: 210.413.1612 Club, cafe & beer house
Faliro
Captain John's
Molly Malone's
Barin
Mutfak Amigos Kyprou 65A, Tel: 210.898.3167 Mexican flavours in a friendly setting
Ak. Koumoundourou 16A, Tel: 210.417.7589 Traditional seafood
EAT
Aperitivo
Da Bruno
Dourambeis
Ag. Alexandrou 46, Tel: 210.981.8959 Rich list with Italian flavours and fresh pasta
Kyprou 70, Tel: 210.894.0377 Authentic Italian cuisine in a cosy setting
Ak. Protopsalti 29, Tel: 210.412.2092 Classic fish taverna
Jimmy and The Fish Ak. Mikrolimanou, Tel: 210.413.4084. Excellent seafood; try the astakomakaronada
Kollias Plastira 3, Tel: 210.462.9620 Excellent seafood but difficult to find; reserve on weekends
Tony Bonano Papanastasiou 63, Tel: 210.411.1901 Italian cuisine with a view of the harbour
Vassilenas Etolikou 72 & Vitolion, Tel: 210.461.2457 Friendly food and atmosphere
Zefyros Ak. Koumoundourou 48, Tel: 210.417.5152 Fresh seafood on the quay
Zorbas Ak. Koumoundourou 14, Tel: 210.411.1163 Unique flavours of the Mediterranean
Il Tinello Knossou 54, Tel: 210.982.8462 Real Italian home cooking
Iskandar Amphitheas 6 & Poseidonos, Tel: 210.988.6474 Authentic Indian cuisine
Kitchen Bar
Russian
cuisin
Beirut Panagouli 52 & Faidras Tel: 210.894.3169 Lebanese cuisine & entertainment
Domates
Poseidonos 3, Tel: 210.981.2004 Comfort food overlooking the sea
Le Petit Sommelier
Food Mafia
Zaimi 6, Tel: 210.984.2344 French cuisine & excellent wine list
Laodikis & Filikis Etairias10, Tel: 210.894.2177 International fare with attitude
DRINK Big Apple South Posidonos 1, Tel: 210.948.5190 Casual cocktails in a modern atmosphere
Zinc
Giouvetsakia Ithomis 20 and Moreos, Tel: 210.964.8081 Organic mageirefta food
Hama
“Flisvos” Marina, Tel: 210.985.3183 Cocktails whith music
Grigoriou Lambraki 34, Tel: 210.960.0595 Sophisticated Japanese cuisine in a cosy setting
Zythos
Il Salotto
Eleftherias 45, Tel: 210.985.0478 Reminiscent of an Irish pub with several beers to choose from
Markou Botsari 13, Tel: 210.894.8397 Minimal décor, elegant Italian fare
Jamon Pintxos Bar
Glyfada
Laodikis 33-35, Tel: 210.894.6089 Basque “pinchos” in a cozy, cheerful atmosphere
EAT
Keep Woking
Paul Esperidon Square and Kyprou 70, Tel: 210.894.7169 A real French boulangerie that serves meals too.
Restaurants Al Dente
56 insider athens | February 2014
new
e 33rd Street Elliniko 13, Tel: 210.963.5416 The fist dedicated Russian restaurant in Athens
Xenofontos 20, Tel: 210.960.6801 Fresh, unpretentious cuisine in a quiet Glyfada street.
Bakeries & Patisseries
Matsuhisa
Barin
Lazaraki 63 & Pandoras 10, Tel: 210.968.0280 Italian food with no fanfare
Dimitriou Gounari 70, Tel:211.012.2801 Create-your-own Asian cuisine, fast and funky
La Casa Di Giorgino Lefkosias 42A, Tel: 210.963.8770 Authentic Italian pizza made in a traditional wood-burning oven
Laodikis 38, Tel: 210.894.9060 Authentic flavours from the Bosphorous
Route Nationale 7 A. Lazaraki 61, Tel: 210.894.0711 Mediterranean cuisine with a French approach and wine bar
Sardelaki Foivis 15, Tel: 211.402.1195 Sardines and seafood in a casual setting.
Sale Bianco da Salvotoro Markou Botsari 10A, Tel: 210.898.6301 Authentic Italian food in an inviting atmosphere
To 25araki M. Botsari 8, Tel: 210.894.4112 Fresh seafood at reasonable prices
Vincenzo Giannitsopoulou 1, Tel: 210.894.1310 Value for money Italian specialities with a Southern Italian touch
CreperieS To Paramythi Kyprou 9, Tel: 210.894.1361 Creperie in a fairy-tale se
DRINK Bars, Clubs & Lounges Balux Posidonos 58, Tel: 210.898.3577 Waterfront lounging
Bourbon Daskaroli 67, Tel: 210.964.7600 American style bar with rock, blues, soul music and live events
Capri Bay Grigoriou Lambraki 2, Tel: 210.894.9995 Excellent cocktails in a Moroccan style garden
Mikro Laodikis 33-35, Tel: 210.894.1031 Minimal decor with well-known Greek DJs
Cafes
Mimaya
Chocolat
Markou Botsari 8, Tel: 210.894.4850 Black and white setting with creative Mediterranean cuisine.
Zisimopoulou 9, Tel: 210.894.3442 Satisfies even the most discerning coffee connoisseur
Bo Botrini’s
Voula
Malabar The Margi, Litous 11, Tel: 210.892.9160 Multinational tastes in a chic Mediterranean ambience
EAT
Rafale
Dream Grill V. Pavlou 78, Tel: 210.895.5110 Traditional recipes & authentic taste
Dulcis in Fundo Prinkipos Petrou 33, Tel: 210.894.2136 Top-quality authentic Italian
Elias Koukoutsi
Live music
Vasileos Pavlou 99, Thursday-Sat urday Tel: 210.899.5480 A modern “rakadiko” serving Greek dishes.
Naiades Vas. Pavlou 74, Tel: 210.965.7706 Popular family grill joint
Vouliagmeni EAT Baku Margi Hotel, Litous 11, Tel: 210.967.0924 Delicious variations of Mediterranean food
Al Bacio Posidonos 17, Tel: 210.896.0400 Trattoria serving traditional Italian dishes & pizza
Apollonos 28, Tel: 210.967.1184 Traditionally prepared seafood dishes presented exquisitely
Matsuhisa Athens Astir Palace, Apollonos 40, Tel: 210.896.0510 Celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa serves up sushi favourites with a LatinAmerican flair
Mythos of the Sea Ag. Nikolaou 10 & Iliou, Tel: 210.891.1100 Gourmet Mediterranean cuisine that blends local produce with fresh seafood
Psaraki Posidonos 15, Tel: 210.896.2215 Seafood served in an informal setting
Schara Posidonos 15, Tel: 210.896.2432 Grills with frills in a friendly setting at reasonable prices
Silver Casa Litous 2 & Apollonos 18, Tel: 210.967.1164, 210.896.4112 Italian restaurant across the water
Waffle House Posidonos 17, Tel: 210.896.1227 Sure to satisfy your sweet tooth
To advertise, contact ads@insider-magazine.gr
Northern Athens
Eat & Drink
Ag. Paraskevi
Rakokazano
EAT
Santa Fe
Da Vinci Ag. Ioannou 23, Tel: 210.600.0102 Delightful dishes in fantastic ambience
Nanninela Peloponnissou 13 Tel: 210.600.5622 Authentic Italian cuisine in traditional decor
Halandri EAT 30 something Iroon Sq 8, Tel: 210.689.9227 Pizza and cocktail bar in a San Franscisco atmosphere
Almyra Filikis Eterias 39, Tel: 210.681.9109 Refined seafood and magical summer garden
Irakliou 1, Tel: 210.689.5501 Quality Greek mezzes in a cosy simple environment Ag. Georgiou 30’B, Tel: 210.685.9690 Mexican food in traditional setting
Step by step new
Socratous 4, Tel: 213.027.6376 Refined tastes in cool, quirky aesthetics
Wine Not
new
Kalogrezis 12, Tel: 210.689.0007 Industrial setting with eclectic wine list
Psychico EAT 310 Street Kifissias Av. 310, Tel: 210.671.0688 Juicy burgers and rich salads with retro look
Albion Omirou 6, Tel: 210.674.0710 Mediterranean flavours in a cosy atmosphere
Antaios
Anahita
G. Drosini 7, Tel: 210.675.5493 Relaxed atmosphere with delicious mezedes
Chr. Smirnis 3, Tel: 210.689.1222 The only place in Athens to try authentic Persian dishes
Aggelopoulou 3, Tel: 210.677.7739 For real American burgers
Bluefield Burger
Apsendi
China’s Fantasy
Kifissias 250-254 & Serres Tel: 210.671.7890 Refined cuisine and cocktails in stylish urban atmosphere
Kambouroglou 32, Tel: 210.674.9889 Chinese cuisine
Dioskouroi
Bo Botrini’s
Dim. Vasiliou 16, Tel: 210.671.3997 All day café-restaurant
Vasileos Georgiou B 24b, Halandri, Tel: 210.685.7323 Athens' best table by far
Kitchen Bar K. Varnali 6, Tel: 210.689.2015 Delightful gastronomic tour in a relaxing atmosphere
Meat Square
Fish Co. Platters Perikleous 11, Tel: 210.671.1976 A modern take on a traditional psarotaverna
Gaspar Food and Mood Dim. Vasiliou Av. & Lykourgou, Tel: 210.677.5011 Creative bistro cuisine ideal fro business lunches
DRINK
Astir Palace, Apollonos 40, Tel: 210.8901794 Creative Italian cuisine with mindblowing views of the Saronic Gulf
Ethnikis Antistaseos 9-11, Tel: 210.683.1300, Juicy steaks in pleasant family environment
En Plo
Saipan
Posidonos 4, Tel: 210.967.1770 Cocktails overlooking Vouliagmeni Bay
Ithaki
K. Varnali 9, Tel: 210.685.0644 Exquisite dishes from China, Japan and Indonesia
Mpoumpoulinas & N. Paritsi, Tel: 210.672.8790 Traditional flavours in an informal atmosphere
27th klm Athinon-Souniou Tel: 210.965.3563-4 Award-winning cuisine & an unmatched location with views of the Saronic Gulf
1920
Apollonos 28, Tel: 210.896.3747 Beautiful sea view, fresh seafood & great service
Matilde Pizza Bar
Ag. Paraskevi 110, Tel: 210.681.3029 Accent on meat in an elegant setting
Perikleous 7, Tel: 210.671.6803 Italian fare with accent on high quality ingredients
Louizidis
Sofa Bar
Ermou 2, Tel: 210.896.0591 Traditional Greek taverna popular with the locals
The Westin Hotel, Apollonos 40, Tel: 210.890.1709 Modern lounge bar serving up delectable cocktails
Eleftherioton Sq 8, Tel.: 210.684.8178 Gastronomic paradise serving Greek dishes with a modern twist
Il Tramonto
Island
Psomi & Alati
Krithamos
Ombra Olimpionikon 220 & Lykourgou, Tel: 210.671.1320 Italian food with attitude
insider athens | February 2014 57
5
Insider guide Eat & Drink Piperia
Jaipur Palace
Dyo 48
Agg. Sikelianou 8 & Andrianiou, Tel: 210.672.9114 Terrific fusion food with piquant flavours
Kifissias 222, Tel: 210.808.8318 Indian cuisine and fine wines
Kifisias 248, Tel: 210.623.0870 New hang out oasis with retro ambience
Rena tis Ftelias
Kastelorizo
Mento Café
25th Martiou 28, Tel: 210.674.3874 Highly recommended Greek taverna
Platanon 2, Tel: 210.807.5408 Part of a chain of upscale seafood restaurants that is sure to please
Ag. Theodorou 10, Tel: 210.808.0193 Traditional home turned stylish cafe
EAT Berdema Vas Amalias 20, Tel: 210.801.3853 Traditional dishes from Greece & Asia Minor
Cash Diligianni 54, Tel: 212.100.4772 Cosmopolitan hang-out with upscale Mediterranean cuisine
Common Secret Kifissias 324, Tel: 210.623.3810 Coffee and light Mediterranean meals in a pleasant setting
Dos Hermanos Kyriazi 24, Tel: 210.808.7906 Excellent Mexican food & super margaritas
Elaias Gi Dexamenis & Olimpionikon 4, Tel: 210.62.00.005 The authenticity of Greek cuisine with stunning views of the city
Gefsis Me Onomasia Proelefsis Kifissias 317, Tel: 210.800.1402 Divine food from all over the world
Golden Phoenix Harilaou Trikoupi & Gortinias Tel: 210.801.3588, Chinese classic popular for the brunch buffet
Gourounakia Kifissias Kifissias 289, Tel: 210.801.1093 Delicious salads, appetizers, souvlakia & grilled platters
Il Salumaio Panagitsas 3, Tel: 210.623.3934 Specially-prepared Italian meals
Kokkino Psaraki
Kifissias 317, Tel: 210.807.7709 Selection of wines from all over the world
Evagelistrias 36, Tel: 210.620.1572 Seafood taverna
Food & Wine
Kool Life
Cellier
Life Gallery, Thiseos 103, Tel: 211.106.7400 Lefteris Lazarou's cuisine in a cool restaurant cum deli
Mangiamo by Meat Square Stamata Ave. 5, Drossia. Tel: 210.800.4700 Open from Mondays to Friday from 3 pm to midnight and on weekends from 1pm to midnight
Nargile Harilaou Trikoupi 50, Tel: 210.808.3333 Lebanese cuisine in a cosmopolitan ambience
Nui Gortinias 11, Tel: 210.801.3553 Gourmet mutli-Asian restaurant
O Tzitzikas Ki O Mermigas Drosini 12-14, Tel: 210.623.0080 A modern taverna serving traditional dishes at reasonable prices
Prytaneion Kolokotroni 37, Tel: 210.808.9160 Generous portions of Mediterranean fare
Royal Thai Zirini 12, Tel: 210.623.2322 Thai cuisine in an opulent setting
Salumaio di Atene Panagitsas 3, Tel: 210.623.3934 Authentic Italian food & fabulous desserts
Semiramis Restaurant Semiramis Hotel, Harilaou Trikoupi 48, Tel: 210.628.4500 Mediterranean cuisine in a hip atmosphere
Telemachos Barbeque Club Fragkopoulou 22, Tel: 210.807.6680 Rare meats char-grilled to perfection
DRINK Chateau Kool Life
58 insider athens | February 2014
Ag. Dimitriou 9, Tel: 210.801.5830 The cool sets preferred bar with baroque décor and refined cuisine
Kifissias 369, Tel: 210.801.8756 By far, one of the best cellars stocking the finest labels in town
Maroussi EAT Altamira Perikleous 28, Tel: 210.612.8841 Multiethnic cuisine in funky environment
Aneton
Hilton Hiltonia Health & Wellness Club Hilton, Vas. Sofias 46, Tel: 210.728.1801 Indoor and outdoor pools
Olive Tree Spa Chatzigiani Mexi 4, Tel: 210.724.4425
Syntagma GB Spa Syntagma Square, Tel: 210.333.0799 Award-winning spa featuring treatments by E’SPA, Valmont & Algoane
Holmes Place Stadiou 4 & Voukourestiou Tel: 210.325.9400, Fully equipped health club with excellent array of classes
Stratigou Lekka 19, Tel: 210.806.6700 Traditional cuisine in a comfy-chic setting reminiscent of the 50s & 60s
Thissio
El Taco Bueno
Ag. Asomaton 17 & Melidoni 1 Tel: 210.323.1073
Hammam baths
Ethnikis Antistaseos & Psaron 1 Tel: 210.684.0460 Mexican flavours in a traditional setting
Mauzac Alamanas 1, Tel: 210.619.9902 Clean lines and a beautiful garden make this café, bar, restaurant a must
Pausa Ag. Konstantinou 46 & Ifestou 3 Tel: 210.617.9290 Italian cuisine accompanied by a selection of Greek & Italian wines
Wagamama Kifissias 37A, Tel: 210.683.6844 Fresh, nutritious Asian fusion food in a sleek yet simple setting
Whispers of wine Ag. Konstantinou 48, Tel: 210.617.9051 Gourmet food with rich wine list and vintage decor Urban Yoga Center
Southern Athens
Kifissia
Vinifera
Central Athens
Chill
Glyfada Holmes Place Gr. Lambraki 83 Tel: 210.969.0096
Touch & Go Dousmani 15, Tel: 210.894.4734 Quick relief by expert masseurs
Voula Urban Yoga Center Leukados 10 Tel: 213.025.3946, 697.704.0841 Release from urban stress
Vouliagmeni Arion Spa Astir Complex, Apollonos 40 Tel: 210.890.2000
Divani Apollon Palace & Spa Ag. Nikolaou 10 & Iliou, Tel: 210.891.1100
see & do
Athinais Cultural Centre formerly a silk factory, this space has been converted into a large cultural centre. astorias 34-36, Votanikos. Tel: 210.348.0000. B&M Theocharakis Foundation for the Fine Arts & Music Vas. Sofias 9 & Merlin 1, Athens Tel: 210.361.1206 Ileana Tounta Contemporary Art Centre 48 Armatolon-Klephton st. Athens, Tel: 210.643.9466 The National Art Gallery and Alexander Soutzos Museum Michalakopoulou 1 - Vas. Constantinou 1, Athens, Tel: 210-7235857 Badminton Theatre Olympiaka Akinita, Goudi 157 73, Athens, Tel: 211 101 0020 Gialino Music Theatre Sygrou 143, N. Smirni, Athens Tel: 210.9316.101-4 Pallas Theatre Voukourestiou 5, Athens, Tel: 210.321.3100
Acropolis is open daily and entrance, includes archaeological sites. Tel: 201.321.0219 Ancient Agora was the heart of ancient Athens - the focus of political, commercial, administrative and social life for centuries. Byzantine Churches many churches dating from the 11th and 12th centuries are found around the city. Noteworthy examples include: Agios Eleftherios, next to the cathedral on Mitropoleos Street; Kapnikarea, halfway down Ermou Street from Syntagma; Agi Apostoli, Agora area south of Stoa of Attalos; and Agia Triada (Russian Orthodox church) on Filellinon Street. Churches are open to the public on Sundays and holidays, also usually for daily prayers 7am-1pm and 4-6:30pm. Dress soberly when visiting. Technopolis (Gazi) a 19th century gas factory turned major cultural centre for performing arts and installation works.
Agora Museum Located in the Stoa of Attalos, Athens. Tel: 210.321.0185. Atelier Spyros Vassiliou Webster 5A, Athens. Tel: 210.923.1502 www.spyrosvassiliou.org Athens University History Museum Tholou 5, Plaka, Tel: 210.368.9502 www.history-museum.uoa.gr Benaki Museum Koumbari 1 & Vas. Sofias Avenue, Athens Tel: 210.367.1000, www.benaki.gr Benaki Museum of Islamic Arts Dipylou 12, Kerameikos. Tel: 210.325.1311 www.benaki.gr
Benaki Museum, Pireos Pireos 138 & Andronikou, Gazi Tel: 210.345.3111, www.benaki.gr Byzantine Museum Vas. Sofias 22, Kolonaki. Tel: 210.721.1027 Hellenic Cosmos Foundation of the Hellenic world Pireos 254, Tavros. Tel: 212.254.0000. www.hellenic-cosmos.gr Frissiras Vlassis Museum of Contemporary European Art Monis Asteriou 3-7, Plaka, Tel: 210.323.4678 www.frissirasmuseum.com Goulandris Foundation Museum of Cycladic Art Neofytou Douka 4, Athens .Tel: 210.722.8321 www.cycladic.gr Herakleidon Herakleidon 16, Thissio. Tel: 210-346.1981. www.herakleidon-art.gr Ilias Lalaounis Jewellery Museum Karyatidon & Kallisperi 12, Makrygianni, Acropolis. Tel: 210.922.7260. www.lalaounis.com Jewish Museum Nikis 39, Plaka. Tel: 210.322.5582. www.jewishmuseum.gr Kerameikos Museum Ermou 148, Monastiraki, Tel: 210.346.3552. National Archaeological Museum Patission 44, Athens, Tel: 210.821.7724 National Gallery and Alexandros Soutsos Museum Vas. Konstantinou 50, Athens. Tel: 210.723.5857, 210.723.5937 Numismatic Museum Panepistimiou 12, Athens. Tel: 210.363.5953. www.nma.gr The Acropolis Museum Dionysiou Areopagitou Street, Acropolis. Tel: 210.924.1043, www.theacropolismuseum.gr
Just for kids
Art galleries
A. Antonopoulou Art Aristofanous 20, Psyrri Tel: 210.321.4994 Artzone 42 42 Vas. Konstantinou, Agalma Troyman, 11635 Athens, Tel: 210 725 9549 Astrolavos Dexameni Xanthippou 11, Kolonaki Tel: 210.729.4342 Astrolavos ArtLife Irodotou 11, Kolonaki Tel: 210.722.1200 Athens Art Gallery Glykonos 4, Dexameni Sq., 106 75 Athens, Tel: 210 721 3938 Bernier/Eliades Gallery Eptachalkou 11, Thissio, Tel: 210.341.3935 (The) Breeder Gallery Iasonas 45, Metaxurgeio, Tel: 210.331.7527 Ekfrasi Gallery Valaoritou 9a, 10671 Athens, Tel: 210 360 7598 El.marneri galerie Lebessi 5-7& Porinou 16, Acropolis Tel: 210.8619.488 EMST National Museum of Contemporary Art Vas. Georgiou B 17 - 19 & Rigilis Str. Athens, Tel: 210 9242 111-3 Fizz Gallery Valaoritou 9c, Athens, Tel: 210 360 7598 Gagosian Gallery Merlin 3, Athens 10671, Tel: 210 364 0215 Gallery 7 Zalokosta 7, Syntagma, Tel: 210.361.2050 Jill Yakas Spartis 16, Kifissia. Tel: 210.801.2773 K-Art Gallery Sina 54, 106 72, Athens, Greece Tel: 211.401.3877 Kalfayan Gallery Haritos 11, Kolonaki, Tel: 210.721.7679 Kourd Gallery Kassiani 2-4, Athens, Tel: 210.642.6573 Skoufa Gallery Skoufa 4, Kolonaki, Tel: 210.360.3541 Stavros Mihaliaras Art 260 Kifissias & Diligianni, Kifissia Tel: 210.623.0928 Thanassis Frisssiras Gallery Kriezotou 7, Athens, Tel: 210. 364.0288 The Art Foundation (TAF) Normanou 5, Monastiraki, Tel: 210.323.8757 The Eynard Mansion Aghiou Konstantinou 20 & Menandrou, Athens, Tel: 210 322 1335 Titanium Yiayiannos Vas. Konstantinou 44, Pangrati, Tel: 210.729.7644
Pireos 100 & Ermou, Gazi. Tel: 210.346.1589. Hadrian’s Arch a Roman arch that marked the boundary of ancient Athens and the new city. Located at the corner of Vas. Olgas and Amalias Avenues. Lykavittos Hill is the highest point in Athens. Take the teleferique from the top of Ploutarchou St. Megaron Mousikis (The Athens Concert Hall) live concerts, operas and other performances. Vas. Sofias Ave. & Kokkali. Tel: 210.728.2333 Odeon of Herod Atticus built in 161 AD, this is where the Athens Festival takes place. Accessible for €1.50 and open daily from 8:30am.Panathenian Stadium “Kalimarmaro”was the site of the first modern Olympics in 1896. Located at Vassileos Konstantinou and Agras, across from the National Garden. Pnyx Hill here, for the first time in history, every citizen could vote, giving Pnyx the name the “birthplace of democracy”. Close by is the beautiful Old Observatory. Presidential Palace formerly the Royal Palace, this building is used by the President of Greece to host dignitaries. Irodou Attikou Street. Stoa of Attalos shopping arcade built in the 2nd century BC and totally reconstructed in the 1950s. Tues-Sun 8:30am-3pm. Admission to the Agora and museum €3.50. Adrianou 24. Tel: 210.321.0185 Syntagma (Constitution Square) is the heart of the city and the best spot for new visitors to orient themselves. The Evzones, dressed in traditional uniforms, guard the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in front of the Parliament. The changing-of-the-guard ceremony takes place every hour. Temple of Olympian Zeus once the largest temple in ancient Greece, its ruins lie just behind Hadrian's Arch. Mon-Sun 8am-7:30pm. €2.00. Vas. Olgas and Amalias Avenues, Tel: 210.922.6330. Theatre of Dionysus built in the 5th century BC is where the plays of Aristophanes, Euripides, Aeschylus and Sophocles were first performed. Tower of Winds the octagonal tower, representing the eight directions of the wind, was built in the 1st century BC by the Syrian astronomer Andronicus. Mon-Sun 8am-7pm. Just east of the Ancient Agora. Tel: 10.324.5220.
Museums
Tel: 210.322.9705
Museums & cultural centres
ASSOCIATION OF GUIDES
Tsatsis Project / Artforum 12 Mitropoleos st. & Venizelou PC 54624 Thessaloniki, Tel: 231 025 7552 Xippas Gallery Sofokleous 53D, Athens, Tel: 210 331 9333 Zoumboulakis Gallery Kolonaki Square 20, Kolonaki Tel: 210.360.8278 Zoumboulakis Gallery Graphics & Editions Kriezotou 6, Syntagma, Tel: 210.363.4454
Sites Theatres
ORGANISED TOURS
Allou Fun Park Kifissou & Petrou Ralli, Ag. Ioannis Rentis, Tel: 210.425.6999, www.allou.gr Children’s Museum Kydathinaeon 14, Plaka, Tel: 210.331.2995. Goulandris Museum of Natural History Levidou 13, Kifissia. Tel: 210.801.5870, www.gnhm.gr Greek Folk Art Museum Daily Karaghiozis puppet shows! Kydathinaeon 17, Plaka, Tel: 210.322.9031 Museum of Children’s Art Kodrou 9, Plaka, Tel: 210.331.2621 www.childrensartmuseum.gr
Summit The Wall Sport Climbing Center Ag. Athanasiou 12, Pallini, Tel: 210.603.0093, www.summit.gr Westin Kids Club Apollonos 40, Vouliagmeni, Tel: 210.890.2000 http://www.westinathens.com/en/westin_kids_club/
insider athens | February 2014 59
partner hotels ARION RESORT & SPA
ATHENS HILTON
COCO-MAT HOTEL NAFSIKA
DIVANI PALACE ACROPOLIS
The legendary beauty resort is part of Starwood Hotels and Resorts. Breathtaking views of the Saronic Gulf, elegant and sophisticated décor in all 123 rooms and suites, private swimming pools and beaches, spa and gourmet restaurants. Apollonos 40, Vouliagmeni. Tel: 210.890.2000
508 renovated rooms, two pools, banquet rooms restaurants, convention facilities, business centre & spa. The rooftop Galaxy bar has gorgeous city views. Vas. Sofias 46, Kesariani. Tel: 210.728.1000
Located in Kifissia, the hotel offers an unforgettable experience thanks to COCO-MAT‘s unique sleep systems in its 22 guest rooms, power breakfast, bike rids and herb garden. Pellis 6, Kifissia. Tel: 210.801.8027
Located at the base of the Acropolis and close to Plaka. Pool with bar, roof garden restaurant with Acropolis view. Parthenonos 19-25 Makrigianni, Acropolis. Tel: 210.928.0100
ATHENAEUM INTERCONTINENTAL ATHENS
ATHENS LEDRA HOTEL
Crowne plaza
GRANDE BRETAGNE
543 rooms with renovated Deluxe rooms and suites. Dedicated business centre facilities and 3.500 m2 of extensive & flexible meeting space. New I-Spa and renovated gym. Award winning restaurants. Syngrou 89-93, Neos Kosmos. Tel: 210.920.6000
314 deluxe guest rooms, 18 suites. Rooftop swimming pool and bar, health club, Polynesian - Tepanyiaki Restaurant and sports bar. Syngrou 115, Neos Kosmos. Tel: 210.930.0000
Newly renovated, at a very convenient location attracts both business and leisure travellers. Amenities include restaurant, bar, rooftop swimming pool, conference and business facilities, garage parking. Michalakopoulou 50, Athens. Tel: 210.727.8000
This city landmark is part of Starwood Hotels and Resorts. All 265 rooms and 56 suites are decorated with original artwork and antiques. Reception areas, ballrooms, roof garden with Acropolis view. Luxury spa, indoor and outdoor pools. Syntagma Sq. Tel: 210.333.0000
ATHENIAN CALLIRHOE HOTEL
CIVITEL ATTIK
DIVANI APOLLON PALACE & SPA
Holiday Inn Attica Avenue
66 state-of the-art rooms, 15 executive rooms and 3 suites. The acclaimed Etrusco Restaurant serves top quality Mediterranean cuisine. Kallirois 32 & Petmeza, Neos Kosmos. Tel: 210.921.5353
A tranquil first-class business, sports and family hotel set in the leafy green suburb of Maroussi, with a swimming pool, conference facilities and spacious restaurant with terrace. Eptalofou 13 – 15, Maroussi. Τel: 210.610.1000
Located seaside with a magnificent view of the Saronic Gulf. All rooms with balconies and sea views. Indoor and outdoor pools, boutiques, beauty parlor, business centre and spa. Ag. Nikolaou 10 & Iliou, KavouriVouliagmeni. Tel: 210.891.1100
New five-star property on Attica Avenue linking Athens with the international airport. State-of-the art conference facilities, restaurant, two bars, pool and fitness center. 40.2 km Attica Road, between exits 17 & 18, Spata. Tel: 210.668.9000
ATHENS ELECTRA PALACE HOTEL
CIVITEL OLYMPIC
DIVANI CARAVEL
Holiday Suites
Located in historic Plaka beneath the Acropolis. Facilities include bar, restaurant, spa area with indoor swimming pool, business centre, garden and underground parking. N. Nikodimou 18-20, Plaka. Tel: 210.337.0000
Right across the Olympic Stadium, its Superior Rooms and Junior Suites are fitted with modern amenities, from free minibar to free wifi internet access and interactive tv. Kifissias 2A & Pantanassis, Maroussi. Tel: 210.680.1900
Situated close to major tourist attractions with, rooftop restaurant and swimming pool. Vas. Alexandrou 2, Kesariani. Tel: 210.720.7000
Elegant, all-suite hotel offering high standard accommodation. Each suite provides guests with a separate living room and kitchenette. Arnis 4, Ilissia. Tel: 210.727.8000
60 insider athens | February 2014
partner hotels KEFALARI SUITES
METROPOLITAN
Royal Olympic
THEOXENIA PALACE HOTEL
Turn-of-the-century hotel in Kifissia, part of YES! Hotels.Themed suites with modern facilities. Pentelis 1, Kifissia. Tel: 210.623.3333
Beautifully renovated property with views of the sea and the Acropolis. Ten minutes from central Athens, the port of Piraeus and main exhibition centers. Syngrou Av. 385, P. Faliro. Tel: 210.947.1000
Near the Acropolis Museum. 265 rooms and 45 unique Panorama Suites, overlooking the Temple of Zeus and the Acropolis. Pool, business center, convention and banquet facilities. Roof Garden Restaurant/Bar “Ioannis”. 28-34, Ath. Diakou Str., Acropolis Tel: 210.928.8400
In an elegant neoclassical building, this hotel has a restaurant, gym, sauna and outdoor pool. Business centre, internet & conference facilities. Filadelfeos 2, Kifissia. Tel: 210.623.3622
KING GEORGE
NEW
SEMIRAMIS
THE MARGI
Situated in the heart of the city, it’s 102 guest rooms and suites are elegantly furnished and natural wood floors. Meeting & Conference spaces, restaurants with panoramic views. Vas. Georgiou A’ 3. Syntagma Sq. Tel: 210.322.2210
Designed by the Campana brothers, NEW, the latest venture of YES! Hotels has 79 luxury rooms, including 18 Studios and 6 Junior Suites. NEW Taste, is the Hotel’s innovative restaurant concept. Filellinon 16, Syntagma. Tel: 210.3273000
YES! Hotel designed by Karim Rashid. 51 luxury rooms, 4 suites and 6 poolside bungalows. Ultra-trendy bar-restaurant. Harilaou Trikoupi 48, Kefalari-Kifissia. Tel: 210.628.4400
Boutique hotel with 90 spacious rooms and suites and great views to the sea and pine forests. Baku Restaurant offers a unique dining experience while Malabar and the Lobby lounge are perfect for a glass of champagne. Close to the lake, beach and tennis courts. Litous 11, Vouliagmeni. Tel: 210.892.9000
LIFE GALLERY
NJV athens plaza
SOFITEL ATHENS AIRPORT
THE WESTIN ATHENS
Modern architecture finds its expression in a minimalist designed building with discreet swimming pools, Zen gardens and ethnic elements. The hotel offers 29 spacious, luxury rooms, including 3 art studios and 2 suites and a spa and fitness centre. Thiseos Avenue 103, Ekali. Tel: 211.106.7400
Boutique-style hotel with 182 rooms including 23 suites with breathtaking views of the Acropolis, ideally located in the heart of the business and shopping district within walking distance of Plaka. 2, Vas.Georgiou A’ St, Syntagma Sq. Tel: 210 3352400
Airport hotel. Executive floor, business center and conference facilities. Two bars and two restaurants. Health club and covered swimming pool. Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport, Spata. Tel: 210.354.4000
Part of the Astir Palace Complex with 162 guest rooms and suites and views of the Saronic Gulf. Sea view lounges, trendy bars, fusion and Mediterranean cuisine restaurants and private gazebos by an Olympic-sized pool. Apollonos 40, Vouliagmeni. Tel: 210.890.2000
MELIÁ ATHENS
NOVOTEL
ST. GEORGE LYCABETTUS HOTEL
TITANIA HOTEL
Located in the heart of Athens with 136 luxury rooms, spacious dining areas, a modern health club and views of historic monuments. Chalkokondili 14 & 28th Octovriou, Acropolis. Tel: 210.332.0100
Located in the center of Athens. Two Bars/Restaurants at outdoor Rooftop Pool & lobby area, play area, gym, free indoor parking, free Wi-Fi and panoramic view from the Roof Garden. 4-6 Michail Voda Street, Vathis Square. Tel: 210.820.0700
Located in the upper part of Kolonaki, not far from the Lycabettus (Lykavittos) funicular railway. Excellent restaurant, Le Grand Balcon. Rooftop swimming pool. Kleomenous 2, Dexamenis Square, Kolonaki. Tel: 210.741.6000
Located in the heart of the historical and commercial center. The recently refurbished suites and rooms combine style with comfort. Awarded Gourmet Restaurant “Olive Garden”, underground garage, fitness center. Panepistimiou 52, Omonoia, Tel: 210.332600
insider athens | February 2014 61
partner hotels TwentyOne
Herodion
COSTA NAVARINO
VEDEMA
The Westin Resort Costa Navarino
A member of YES! Hotels. Modern design and simple architectural charm. 16 ergonomically designed rooms and 5 loft suites. “21” Bar Restaurant for indoor and outdoor dining. Kolokotroni 21, Kifissia Tel: 210.623.3521
A five minute walk to Plaka. 90 guest rooms, meeting facilities and a lovely atrium bar-coffee shop. Rovertou Galli 4, Makrigianni. Tel: 210.923.6832
A CATEGORY
Inspired by old Messinian mansions, its 445 deluxe rooms, suites, 123 with private infinity pools, offer access to an extensive common pool areas, and reflect Westin’s soothing aesthetic. Navarino Dunes Costa Navarino, Pilos Messinia, Tel: 27230.95000
Vedema has 45 rooms converted from a 100 year old neo-classical captain’s house and a private swiming pool for all the suites. Vedema, Megalohori. Tel: 22860.81796
PATMOS
AVA HOTEL & SUITES
HOTEL ELECTRA
The Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort
Patmos Aktis Suites & Spa
Luxurious apartments and suites in Plaka. Magnificent views of the Acropolis, Hadrian’s Arch and Zeus Temple. Short walk to Syntagma. Lysikratous 9-11, Plaka. Tel: 210.325.9000
Within walking distance from all archaeological sites, business and commercial districts. Includes bar, restaurant, lobby and meeting areas. Ermou 5, Syntagma Sq. Tel: 210.337.8000
289 exquisitely appointed rooms and 32 suites with individual infinity pools. Traditional Greek design with contemporary touches. Navarino Dunes Costa Navarino, Pilos Messinia, Tel: 27230.96000
A 5-star luxury hotel situated only a few steps from Grikos beach. Considered possibly the best located hotel in Patmos. Patmos, Grikos Bay, Tel: 22470.32800
amarilia hotel
PERISCOPE HOTEL
Santorini
SYROS VILLA SELENA
MYSTIQUE
An excellent choice for business and leisure travellers. 100 renovated rooms and suites with great sea views, meeting and banqueting facilities, outdoor swimming pool. Ag. Nikolaou 13 Vouliagmeni. Tel. 210 8990391
17 rooms, 4 junior suites and a super-lux penthouse suite. Part of YES! Hotels. Haritos 22, Kolonaki. Tel: 210.729.7200
Fresh Hotel
Philippos
Mystique is an 18 villa hotel, designed by Frank Le Fevbre. Mystique, Oia. Tel. 22860.71114
The Tsitouras Collection Hotel
A luxurious five-star boutique hotel with suitably equipped rooms and suites to ensure a comfortable stay. The spacious terrace with a panoramic view is ideal for breakfast or drinks Tel. 22810 86007, www.villaselena.eu
@ Would you like TO see your
Situated in the heart of old Athens within walking distance of the Plaka. Enjoy the Orange Bar, rooftop restaurant and pool. Sophocleous 26 & Klisthenous, Omonoia. Tel: 210.524.8511
62 insider athens | February 2014
Recently refurbished, all 50 rooms are well-appointed and comfortable. Good value for money. Mitseon 3, Acropolis. Tel: 210.922.3611-4
Art and hospitality are graciously combined in the unique backdrop of a dramatic landscape. Firostefani, Santorini Tel: 22860.23747
hotel LISTED here? CONTACT US at: info@insider-magazine.gr
ATHENS
Join the Insider Publications team! Ad Sales Executive (Digital &Print)
Administrative Assistant
Job responsibility: The Ad Sales Executive will be responsible for online and print sales and achieve targeted sales revenues from existing clients and new businesses. Qualifications: Fluent in English and Greek with at least 2 years experience in media sales. Good network of contacts, team player and results-oriented.
Job responsibility: Assist in general administrative and editorial work. Qualifications: Fluency in written and spoken English (native speaker preferred). Good knowledge of Greek. French desirable. Excellent computer and social media skills. Multi-tasker. Attention to detail a must and superior organisation skills a pre-requisite.
* Please send your CV to info@insider-magazine.gr
20%
Off!
Cut this coupon & avail of 20% off on all exclusive brands at Sephora’s stores in Greece.
AUDIOVISUAL OTE video conference service 7.30am-10pm. Patission 85. Tel: 210.883.8578, 210.822.0399
Commercial Office spaces Regus Tel: 210 727 9000 Global Business Services Tel: 210.876.4876 Kifissias Ave. 90, Maroussi
COURIER SERVICES
ACS Asklipiou 25, Kryoneri Tel: 210.819.0000 DHL Tel: 210.989.0000 Express City S. Trikoupi 71, Athens, Tel: 210.821.9959 Geniki Taxydromiki Kifissou 14, Renti, Tel: 210.485.1100 Speedex Seneka 24, 15klm Athinon-Lamias, Kifissia Tel: 801.110.0011 UPS 4klm Peanias-Markopoulou Av., Koropi Tel: 210.998.4000
Driving Schools in English Trochokinisi Driving School 28th Oktovriou 126, Ambelokipi, Thessaloniki Tel: 231 072 9092 Driving School Highway Amfitheas and Ag. Triados 30, 175 64 P. Faliro, Tel: 210.988.8098, 699.772.2777 Vlachos Bros 25th Martiou 20, Peristeri; Xenofodos 17, Peristeri; Afroditis 39, Ilion Tel: 210.574.4895, 210.576.9190
Relocation Agencies Allied Pickfords Mourouzi 7, Athens Tel: 210.610.4494 Athens Relocation Centre Zakynthou 10, Glyfada Tel: 210.965.0697 Attica Movers Syngrou Ave. 19, Neos Kosmos, Tel: 210 922 7221 Celebrity International Movers Kapodistriou Ave. 102, Nea Ionia Tel: 210 272 0106 Corporate Relocations Athens Ag. Saranta 32, Nea Erithrea Tel: 210.800.3510 Orphee Beinoglou 27th km Old National Road AthensKorinth Location Elefsinia, Elefsina Tel: 210.946.6100 Octopus Relocation Services Ygeias 7, Marina Zeas, Tel: 210.459.9530
MISSED THESE GREAT ISSUES?
35.000 readers get the best of Greece each month. Subscribe to Insider and never miss another issue! send us an e-mail at: subscriptions@insider-magazine.gr or give us a call at: 210.729.8634
64 insider athens | February 2014
TRANSLATIONS / INTERPRETING Global Business Services Kifisias 90, Maroussi, Tel: 210.876.4876 IBS - International Business Services Michalakopoulou 29, Kaissariani Tel: 210.724.5541
Travel Agencies Travel Plan Xristou Lada 3, Athens Tel: 210.333.300, www.travelplan.gr Amphitrion Kyprou 46 & Ploutarhou, Dafni Tel: 210.900.6000, www.amphitrionholidays.gr TravelPlanet24 Karagiorgi Servias 4, Syntagma Tel: 211 107 9684, www.travelplanet24.com Mid-east Travel Vas Sofias 105-107, Ampelokipoi Tel: Tel: 211.211.8888, www.mideast.gr
Embassies Cultural Institutes
Business services
useful information
French Institute Sina 31, 10680 Athens Tel: 210.339.8600 Hellenic American Union Massalias 22, 10680 Athens, Tel: 210.368.0900 British Council Kolonaki Square 17 106 73 Athens Tel: 210.369.2333 Instituto Cervantes Mitropoleos 23, 105 57 Athens Tel: 210.363.4117 Goethe Institut Omirou 14-16, 100 33 Athens Tel: 210.366.1000 Onassis Cultural Centre Syngrou Ave. 107-109, 117 45 Athens, Tel: 213.017.8000 Instituto Italiano di Cultura Patission (28 Oktovriou) 47 Tel: 210.369.2333, 210.524.2646 ALBANIA Vekiareli 7, Filothei, Tel: 210.687.6200 ALGERIA Vas. Constantinou 14, Athens Tel: 210.756.4191-2 ARGENTINA Vas. Sophias 59, Athens Tel: 210.724.4158 ARMENIA K. Palaiologou 95, Athens, Tel: 210.683.1130, 210.683.1145 AUSTRALIA Kifisias & Alexandras, Ampelokipoi Tel: 210.870.4000 AUSTRIA Vas. Sofias Av. 4, Athens, Tel: 210.725.7270
AZERBAiJAN Skoufa 10, Athens, Tel: 210.363.2721 BELGIUM Sekeri 3, Kolonaki, Tel: 210.360.0314 BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA Hatzikosta 3, Athens, Tel: 210.641.0788 BRAZIL Vassilis Sofias 23, Athens Tel: 210.721.3039 BULGARIA Stratigou Kallari 33A, P. Psychico. Tel: 210.674.8105 CANADA Ioanni Gennadiou 4, Athens, Tel: 210.729.2647 CHILE Rigilis 12, Athens, Tel: 210.807.1020 CHINA Krinon 2A, P. Psychico, Tel: 210.672.3282 CROATIA Tzavella 4, N. Psychico, Tel: 210.677.7033 CUBA Sofokleous 5, Filothei, Tel: 210.685.5550 CYPRUS Xenofontos 2A, Athens, Tel: 210.373.4800 CZECH REPUBLIC G. Seferi 6, P. Psychico. Tel: 210.671.9701 DENMARK Mourouzi 10, Athens, Tel: 210.725.6440 EGYPT Vas. Sofias 3, Syntagma, Tel: 210.361.8612 ESTONIA Messoghion 2-4, Ampelokipoi, Tel: 210.747.5660 FINLAND Hatziyianni Mexi 5, Athens, Tel: 210.725.5860 FRANCE Vas. Sofias 7, Syntagma, Tel: 210.339.1000 FYROM Papadiamanti 4, P. Psychico. Tel: 210.674.9585 GEORGIA Ag. Dimitriou 24, P. Psychico. Tel: 210.674.2186 GERMANY Karaoli & Dimitriou 3, Athens, Tel: 210.728.5111 HUNGARY Karneadou 25, Kolonaki Tel: 210.725.6800 INDIA Kleanthous 3, Mets, Tel: 210.721.6481 INDONESIA Marathonodromon 99, P. Psychico, Tel: 210.674.2345 IRAN Stratigou Kallari 16, Patisia, Tel: 210.674.1436 IRELAND Vas. Konstantinou 7, Mets, Tel: 210.723.2405 ISRAEL Marathonodromon 1, P. Psychico, Tel: 210.670.5500 ITALY Sekeri 2, Kolonaki, Tel: 210.361.7260 JAPAN Ethnikis Antistaseos 46, Halandri. Tel: 210.670.9900 JORDAN Papadiamanti 21. P. Psychico. Tel: 210.674.4161 Kazakhstan Imittou 122, Papagou Tel: 210.654.7765 KOREA Messoghion 2-4, Athens. Tel: 210.698.4080 KUWAIT Marathonodromon 27, P. Psychico, Tel: 210.674.3593
Ambulance Tel: 166 Doctors SOS Tel: 1016. They will issue an invoice to claim reimbursement from your insurer. Ipirou 1, Athens. Duty Pharmacies Call 1434, Also check newspapers for listings. Emergency Hospitals Tel: 1434 Fire Brigade Tel: 199 Forest Fire Tel: 191 Poison Hotline Tel: 210.779.3777 Police Tel: 100 Tourist Police Tel: 171 Coast Guard Tel:108 Air Police Tel: 210.964.2000
ROAD ASSISTANCE ELPA Tel: 10400 Emergency Service Tel: 104 Express Service Tel: 154 Hellas Service Tel: 1057 Interamerican Tel: 1158
EUROCLINIC PAEDON Lemessou 39-41 & Aharnon 209, Kato Patissia, Tel: 210.869.1900 PAEDON AGIA SOFIA HOSPITAL Mikras Asias and Thivon, Goudi. Tel: 210.746.7000 PAEDON AGLAIA KYRIAKOU HOSPITAL Livadias 3 and Thivon, Goudi. Tel: 210.772.6000 & 1535
Private Hospitals Advanced Medical Services, Symmetria Building Ethnikis Antistaseos 66, Halandri. Tel: 210.677.3573 www.symmetria.gr CENTRAL CLINIC OF ATHENS Asklipiou St. 31, Athens, Emergency number 1169 or Tel: 210.367.4000 www.centralclinic.gr EUROCLINIC Diagnostic, surgical and treatment centre. Athanasiadou 9, Athens, (near Mavili Sq.), Tel: 210.641.6600 EURODENTICA Specialized dental care Patision 150, Athens, Tel: 210.866.3367-8 Alamanas 3, Maroussi, Athens, Tel: 210.619.5760-1, El. Venizelou 162, Kallithea, Athens, Tel: 210.956.5365 YGEIA Kifissias & E. Stavrou 4, Maroussi, Tel: 210.686.7000, www.ygeia.gr IATRIKO KENTRO (ATHENS MEDICAL CENTER) Areos 36, P. Faliro. Tel: 210.989.2100-20. Distomou 5-7, Maroussi. Tel: 210.619.8100 METROPOLITAN HOSPITAL Ethnarou Makariou 9 & El. Venizelou, N. Faliro. Tel: 210.480.9000 www.metropolitan-hospital.gr IASO Kifissias 37-39, Maroussi. Tel: 210.618.4000 MITERA Kifissias & E. Stavrou 6, Maroussi. Tel: 210.686.9000
public Hospitals ASKLEPIEION HOSPITAL Vas. Pavlou 1, Voula. Tel: 210.895.8301-4 EVANGELISMOS Ypsilantou 45-47, Kolonaki, Tel: 210.720.1000 KAT HOSPITAL Nikis 2, Kifissia, Tel: 210.628.0000 Specialized trauma unit.
TZANNEIO Afentouli & Tzani, Pireaus, Tel: 210.451.9411-9
PHYSICIANS (ENGLISH SPEAKING) Ioannis Bitzos, MD Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Harilaou Trikoupi 62, Kifissia, Tel: 210.808.0682 A.J. Kanellopoulos, MD Eye Surgeon, Tsoha 17, Athens, Tel: 210.747.2777 Dimitris Linos, MD FACS General Surgeon, Kifissias 227, Kifissia, Tel: 210.612.5001-2 heart & vascular centrE E.N. Deliargyris, MD FACC FSCAI Interventional cardiologist. Southern Athens. Vakchou 2 & Vas. Kostantinou, Tel: 210.897.6276, www.heartline.gr
English media
EMERGENCY NUMBERS
Paediatric Hospitals
Newspapers The International New York Times carries the English version of Kathimerini Athens Insider, the bi-monthly magazine for Greece
Radio Athens International Radio 104,4 Good Morning Athens at 10am, english programs at 11am, music programs on weekdays at 9pm, weekends at 1pm. Peiraios 100, Athens, Tel: 210.341.1610
Schools
Greek Language
SWITZERLAND Iasiou 2, Evaggelismos, Tel: 210.723.0364-6 TAIWAN Marathonodromon 57, Psychico, Tel: 210.677.5122 Representative office THAILAND Marathorodromon 25 & Kyprou, P. Psychico, Tel: 210.674.9065 TUNISIA Antheon 2, P. Psychico, Tel: 210.671.7590 TURKEY Vas. Georgiou B’ 8, Athens, Tel: 210.726.3000 UKRAINE Stephanou Delta 4, Filothei, Tel: 210.680.0230 UNITED KINGDOM Ploutarchou 1, Athens, Tel: 210.727.2600 UNITED STATES Vas. Sofias 91, Athens, Tel: 210.721.2951 URUGUAY Menandrou 1, Kifissia, Tel: 210.361.3549 VATICAN Mavili 2, P. Psychico, Tel: 210.674.3598 VENEZUELA Marathonodromon 19, P. Psychico. Tel: 210.672.9169 VIETNAM Yakinthon 50, Psychico, Tel. 210.612.8733, 210.675.3080.
Emergencies
LEBANON 6, 25th Martiou, P. Psychico, Tel: 210.675.5873 LIBYA Vyronos 13, P. Psychico, Tel: 210.674.2120 LITHUANIA Vas. Sophias 49, Kolonaki Tel: 210.729.4356 LATVIA Vas. Konstantinou 38, Athens Tel. 210.729.4483 LUXEMBOURG Vas. Sofias 23A & Neofitou Vamva 2, Syntagma Tel: 210.725.6400 MALTA V. Sofias 96, Athens, Tel: 210.778.5138 MEXICO Filikis Etaireias Sq. 14, Kolonaki, Tel: 210.729.4780 MOLDAVIA Georgiou Bacu 20, Filothei. Tel: 210.699.0660 MOROCCO Marathonodromon 5, P. Psychico. Tel: 210.674.4210 NETHERLANDS Vas Konstantinou 5-7, Mets, Tel: 210.725.4900 NIGERIA Dolianis 65, Maroussi, Tel: 210.802.1188 NORWAY Vas. Sofias 23, Kolonaki, Tel: 210.724.6173 PAKISTAN Loukianou 6, Evaggelismos, Tel: 210.729.0122 PALESTINE Giassemion 13, P. Psychico. Tel.: 210.672.6061-3 PANAMA Praxitelous 192 & II Merarchias, Piraeus, Tel: 210.428.6441 PERU Semitelou 2, Athens, Tel: 210.779.2761 PHILIPPINES Antheon 26, P. Psychico. Tel: 210.672.1837 POLAND Chrysanthemon 22, P. Psychico. Tel: 210.679.7700 PORTUGAL Vas. Sofias 23, Kolonaki Tel: 210.729.0096 / 210.723.6784 QATAR Perikleous 2 & Kifissias Av. 212, N. Psychico, Tel: 210.725.5031 ROMANIA Emm. Benaki 7, P. Psychico. Tel: 210.672.8875 RUSSIA Nikiforos Lytra 28, P. Psychico. Tel: 210.672.5235 SAUDIA ARABIA Palaiologhou 2 & Agias Annis, Halandri, Tel: 210.671.6911 SERBIA Vas. Sophias 106, Athens, Tel: 210.777.4344 SINGAPORE Aigialias 17, Paradissos Amaroussiou. Tel: 210.684.5072 SLOVAK REPUBLIC G. Seferi 4, P. Psychico. Tel: 210.677.1980 SLOVENIA Kifissias Av. 280 & Dimokratias 1, N. Psychico, Tel: 210.672.0090-091 SOUTH AFRICA Kifissias 60, Maroussi. Tel: 210.610.6645 SPAIN Dionysiou Areopagitou 21, Plaka, Tel: 210.921.3123 SWEDEN Vas. Konstantinou 7, Athens, Tel: 210.726.6100
Health
useful information
The Athens Center 48 Archimidous Street, Mets, Athens 11636, Greece Tel: 210.701.5242 CELT Athens 77 Academias Street, 106 78 Athens, Greece, Tel: 210.330.1455 Greek House Dragoumi 7, 145 61 Kifissia, Tel: 210.808.5186 Hellenic American Union 22 Massalias str., 106 80 Athens, Tel: 210.368.0900 Omilo Greek Language And Culture Panagi Tsaldari 13 (4th floor), 15122 Maroussi, Tel: 210.612.2706
insider athens | February 2014 65
useful information
Public Power Corporation (DEI) In case of power failure: Tel: 210, 523 9939 www.dei.gr
Weather Attica, Tel: 148, www.hnms.gr
Water Supply & Sewage (EYDAP) In case of water cut: Tel: 1202, www.eydap.gr
Citizen’s Rights Ombudsman: 5 Hatziyiannis Mexis (near the Hilton Hotel), Tel: 210 72 89 640
Universities University of Indianapolis Ipitou 9, Athens, Tel: 210.323.6647 DEREE Gravias 6, Aghia Paraskevi, Tel: 210.600.9800
66 insider athens | February 2014
ALBA Graduate Business School Athinas Ave. & Areos 2A, Vouliagmeni Tel: 210.896.4531 American University of Athens Kifisias & Sochou 4, Neo Psichiko, Tel: 210.725.9301 Business College of Athens Tatoiou 2 & Othonos 77, Kifissia Tel: 210.808.8008
International Kindergartens
International Schools
St Catherine's British Embassy School Sofoklis Venizelou 77, Lykovrissi Tel: 210.282.9750 St. Lawrence College Anemon St, Koropi Tel: 210.891.7000 American Community Schools of Athens Aghias Paraskevis Ave. 129, Halandri, Tel: 210.639.3200 Campion School Aghias Ioulianis, Pallini Tel: 210.607.1700 Byron College Filolaou 7, Gerakas Tel: 210.604.7722 International School of Athens Xenias and Artemidos, Kifissia, Tel: 210.623.3888 Lycée Franco-Hellénique Eugène Delacroix Chlois & Trikalon, Ag. Paraskevi Tel: 211.300.9121 Scuola Statale Italiana Odos Mitsaki 18, Ano Patissia Tel: 210.228.2720 German School in Athens Homatianou & Ziridi, Maroussi Tel: 210.619.9261 Greek German School 25 Martiou & Vernardou, Vrylissia Tel: 210.682.0566
English kindergartens The Cottage Kindergarten Psaron 74, Halandri Tel: 210.682.7629 Early Learning Rizountos 53, Elliniko Tel: 210.961.8763 Hopscotch International Kindergarten Ag. Triandos 93, Vari Tel: 210.965.3985 Learning Steps Ath. Diakou 81 & Ydras 5, Kifissia, Tel: 210.620.5818 Melina’s Kindergarten Harilaou Trikoupi 16, Kifissia Tel: 210.801.2719 Peek-a-boo PreSchool Vougliameni Tel: 210.967.1970 Peter Pan Lakonias 4-6, Voula Tel: 210.895.9654 Prince Allen The English Nursery School Lysimahou 8, Vari Tel: 210.965.6800
German kindergartens
Money
Public Services Administration Information Center (paperwork assistance) on weekdays 8am-3pm (KEP): Tel: 177, ww.kep.gov.gr
Italian Institut Library Patision 47, Omonia National Library Tzavella 25, Syntagma, Tel: 210.382.0657 Nordic Library 7 Kavalotti St, Makrigianni Tel: 210.924.9210, 210.924.9211
LOST OR STOLEN CREDIT CARDS
Post offices operate weekdays 8am-2pm. The main post offices in Athens are located at SYNTAGMA SQUARE and OMONIA SQUARE at Aeolou 100 and open weekdays 7:30am-8pm, Sat 7:30am-2pm, and Sun 9am-1:30pm.
O mikros Antonis Barbayiannis, Pallini, Tel: 210.603.2527
Italian kindergartens Scuola maternal italiana de Atene Mitsaki 18, Ano Patissia, Tel: 210.202.0274 Il Mulino magico Troados 23, Ag Paraskevi, Tel: 210.600.3148 American School of Classical Studies Blegen Souedias 54, Athens Tel: 210.723.6313 Athens College Library Stephanou Delta, P. Psychico Tel: 210.679.8100 Benakeios Library Anthimou Gazi 2, Athens Tel: 210.367.1027 British Council Library Kolonaki Sq. 17, Kolonaki Tel: 210.363.3211/5 French Institute Library 31 Sina St, Athens Tel: 210.362.4301 German Archaeological Institute Library Pheidiou 1, Athens Tel: 210.362.0270 Goethe Institute Library Omirou 14-16, Athens Tel: 210.360.8111 Hellenic American Union Greek Library 22 Masalias St (7th floor), Athens, Tel: 210.362.9886
AMERICAN EXPRESS Tel: 210.324.4975 DINERS CLUB Tel: 210.929.0200 MASTERCARD Tel: 00.800.1188.703.03 VISA Tel: 00.800.1163.803.04
Country Code: 30 City Code: 210 international calls first dial 00, then the country code. To call from a Public pay- phone buy a phone card at the kiosks. Prepaid mobile phone cards (SIM cards) are available for €5 at kiosks, post offices, mini markets and mobile phone company stores.
Phone
Greek Manpower Employment Organization (OAED) www.oaed.gr, Tel: 210 99 89 000
Au petit bonheur 50 Iraklitou, Glyfada, Tel: 210 9658 207 Les Alouettes Spartis 36 & Harilaou Trikoupi, Kifissia Tel: 210 80 11 570 Mary Poppins 4, Kodrou, Filothei, Tel: 210.677.3803 Paramythia Cycladon 11, Glyka Nera, Tel: 210.600.3196 Play and Learn Kassaveti 22, Kifissia, Tel: 210.801.1428
Libraires
Road Assistance ELPA: 104
Social Security & Health insurance (IKA) www.ika.gr
Post
French kindergartens Telephone & Internet Services (OTE) New tel: 138, Tel. (defective): 129 OTE customer service: 134 International call information (English, French & German): 169 www.ote.gr
!
advertise in our listings, and reach thousands of customers email us at
ads@insider-magazine.gr
Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport, Spata. Tel: 210.353.0000, 210.353.1000. www.aia.gr. 24 HOUR VIP TRANSPORT SERVICE
Car rental
WSW Skycap Services at Athens Airport provides Meet & Greet, Baggage Hauling and Transport Service. Tel: 210.353.0100 www.skycap.gr For info about the public bus lines please check our section Getting Around Ada Rent-a-Car Tel: 210.322.0087 Arena Tel: 210.894.6883, 210.614.7400 Auto Union Tel: 210.602.0162 Avis Tel: 210.322.4951 Budget Tel: 210.921.4771-3 Europcar Tel: 210.924.8810-8 Hertz Tel: 210.998.2000 Michael Stamou Luxury Rentals Tel: 210.922.2442/43 Sixt Rent-a-Car Tel: 210.570.6895, 210.922.0171
LIMOUSINES AAA Royal Prestige Tel: 210.988.3221 Astra Limousine Service Tel: 210.922.0333/807.9996 Convecta Travel Agency & Limousine Services Tel: 210.322.5090 Limousines Kacaya Tel: 210.323.4120
Public transport
Airport
Airlines
Aegean Tel: 801.11.20000 Air France KLM Tel: 210.998.0222 Air Malta Tel: 210.965.2300-22 Alitalia Tel: 210.998.8888 American Tel: 210.361.3373 Air Taxis (Helicopter and plane charters) Tel: 210.938.4149 British Airways Tel: 210.353.0453 Continental Tel: 210.353.4312 Cyprus Airways Tel: 210.353.4100 Easy Jet Tel: 211.198.0013 El Al Tel: 210.934.1500-1 Emirates Tel: 210.933.3400 Etihad Tel: 210.324.1010 Iberia www.iberia.com/gr Lufthansa Tel: 210.617.5200 Olympic Airways Tel: 801.801.0101 Qatar Airways Tel: 210.950.8700 Singapore Tel: 210.994.2567 Swiss / Crossair Tel: 210.617.5320 Tunisair Tel: 210.969.6496 Turkish Tel: 210.988.5700
Combined tickets for metro, buses and trolleys (€1,40) are available from metro stations and central ticket booths, valid within 90 mins of validation for all public transport - except the airport service, which costs 8€.
EXPRESS BUS from/to airport
X93 Kifisos Intercity Bus Station - Athens Airport Express. Direct Connection to the intercity bus (KTEL) terminals KIFISOS and LIOSION X95 Syntagma – Athens Airport Express. Direct Connection to Syntagma Square at Athens city center. X96 Peiraias – Athens Airport Express. Direct Connection to Piraeus central passenger port terminals. X97 Dafni Metro Station – Athens Airport Express. Direct Connection to DAFNI metro station. Tickets available at the Arrivals Hall; validate on board. Fare is €5 One-way travel time estimates**: X93 (65’ min), X95 (70’ min), X96 (90’ min), X97 (70’ min). For further information dial 185 or visit www.oasa.gr, www.ametro.gr. For info on trains visit www.proastiakos.gr
HELLENIC RAILWAYS ORGANIsATION Karolou 1. Tel: 210.529.7002, www.ose.gr
ATHENS METRO Line 1 (Piraeus-Kifissia) 5am-midnight, Line 2 (Agios Antonios-Agios Dimitrios) 5.30am-midnight, Line 3 (Egaleo-
Doukissis Plakentias) 5.30am-midnight Line 3 (Egaleo-Airport) 5.30am-22.52pm and 06.30am-23.30pm. The last itinerary is 2 hours later on Friday and Saturday night than it is during the week. www.ametro.gr
tram Tram itineraries are only from Syntagma to S.E.F (in Neo Faliro) and from Syntagma to Asklipio Voulas. From Monday to Thursday, trams operate from 5.am until midnight and non-stop from Friday morning to Sunday midnight. www.tramsa.gr
TAXIS from the airport cost about €20 to Syntagma Square, €25 to Piraeus, depending on traffic. Between midnight and 5am double tariff applies. Note: If you suspect that you have been overcharged, you can call the tourist police 0n 171
INTERCITY BUSES Terminal 1: Buses for Igoumenitsa, Ioannina, Kavala, Loutraki, Patra, the Peloponese, and Thessaloniki. Kifissou 100Tel: 210.512.4910-1, www.ktel.org Terminal 2: Buses for Delphi, Evia, Galaxidi, Karpenisi, Katerini, Lamia, Livadia, Thiva and Volos. Liosion 260. For KTEL itineraries all over Greece call 14505
RADIO TAXI Enotita Tel: 210.645.9000 Ermis Tel: 210.411.5200 Ikarus Tel: 210.515.2800 Kifissia Tel: 210.801.4000 Piraeus Tel: 210.418.2333 Radio Taxi Glyfada Tel: 210.960.5600 There is a booking fee of €2 added to the meter, and a €3,40 + VAT for a pre-arranged meeting. For PET taxis there is an extra charge of €5.
Sea ports Lavrio Tel: 22920.27711, 22920.22089 Piraeus Tel: 210.422.6000-4 Rafina Tel: 22940.22300, 22940.28888
Sea ports & Ferries
getting around Ferries Ferries run year-round. For information on seasonal schedules contact a travel agent or call the Port Police on 210.422.6000 From the Port of Piraeus Northern and Eastern Aegean Islands: Gates A & B Chios, Ikaria, Lesvos, Samos, Dodecanese Islands: Gate E Kalymnos, Kos Leros, Patmos, Rhodes, Saronic Gulf Islands:
Gates G & E
Aegina, Hydra, Poros, Spetses, Crete: Gate A Aghios Nikolaos, Chania, Iraklio, Kastelli (Kissamos), Rethymno, Cycladic Islands:
Gates B, G & D
Astipalea, Folegandros, Kimolos, Kithnos, Milos, Serifos, Sifnos: Gate B Amorgos, Donoussa, Ios, Iraklia, Koufonissi, Mykonos, Santorini, Schinoussa, Syros, Tinos: Gates G&D Naxos, Paros: Gate G
Superfast Ferries Daily departures, Greece - Italy: from Patras and Igoumenitsa to Ancona and Bari Head office: 23-125 Syngrou Avenue & 3 Torva Street 11745 Athens. Tel:210.891.9000 Reservations: Athens: 210.891.9130 Thessaloniki: 2310.560.700, www.superfast.com Hellenic Seaways 210 41 99 000 www.hellenicseaways.gr, Anek Lines www.anek.gr Domestic lines: 210 41 97 420 International lines: 210 41 97 430 Minoan Lines www.minoan.gr Tel: 801 11 75 000
YACHT CHARTERS A1 Yacht Trade Consortium Akti Themistokleous 8, Marina Zeas, Piraeus. Tel: 210.458.7100 Ghiolman Yachts Filellinon 7, Syntagma. Tel: 210.323.3696 Northstar Poseidonos 9 & Achilleos, P. Faliro. Tel: 210.988.4000 PGA Shipping Posidonos 61, P. Faliro. Tel: 210.985.9400 Seahorse Alkyonidon 83 (Marina), Voula. Tel: 210.895.2212 Seascape Poseidonos Ave. 29, Alimos. Tel/Fax: 210.985.8301 Valef Yachts Pl. Chatzikonstanti 2, Piraeus. Tel:210.451.2010 Vernicos Yachts Posidonos 11, Kalamaki. Tel: 210.985.0122-8
insider athens | February 2014 67
sales points For central Athens points, see i on map EASTERN SUBURBS Gerakas: Mini Market Milionis: 131, Marathonos Avenue Pallini: Bookshop Bouzas: 63, Marathonos Street Peania: Bookshop Tangopoulos: Agias Triados Street
NORTHERN SUBURBS AG.PARASKEVI: Mini Market Avarakis: 3, Themistokleous Street, Kiosk Theodoropoulos: 8, Polytechniou Street DIONYSSOS: Kiosk Michail: 4, Mitropolitou Kydonion Street EKALI: Kiosk Kyrpoglou: Vassileos Pavlou Square FILOTHEI: Kiosk Roupa: Drossopoulou Square, Super Market Kyriakopoulos: 11, M.Renieri Street, Mini Market Plati: 27, V.Georgiou Street HALANDRI: Mini Market Kyriakou: 3, Lykourgou Street, Kiosk Drizos: V. Konstantinou & V.Georgiou Street, Bookshop Evripidis: 11, V.Konstantinou Street, Mini Market Bakatsia: 46, Pendelis Avenue, Bookshop Vivliostyl: 34, Olympou Street, Mini Market Tsakiri: 76, Ag.Antoniou Street HOLARGOS: Kiosk Bekiaris: 212, Messogion Aveue, Kiosk Tambouridis: 256, Messogion Avenue KEFALARI: Kiosk Glentzis: Patr.Maximou & Apergi Square KIFISSIA: Kiosk Karadouman: 36-38, Kyriazi Street, Bookshop Gioggaras: 34, Elaion Street, Kiosk Koutsodimou: 308, Kifissias Avenue MAROUSSI: Tobacco & Gifts Tsitsilonis: 41-43, Kifissias Avenue, Tobacco & Gifts Raptis: 64, Kifissias Street, Kiosk Stefanopoulos: 46, Kifissias Street, Mini Market Kitsios: 43, Grammoou & Dionyssou Street MELISSIA: Kiosk Manikas: 75, Dimokratias Avenue, Mini Market Koufopandelis: 28, Pigis Street NEA ERYTHREA: Kiosk Anastassopoulos: 142, Harilaou Trikoupi Street, Bookshop Giannaki: 169, Eleftheriou Venizelou Street, Newsstand: 20 klm National Road Athens-Lamia, Kiosk Konidakis: Thisseos Avenue & Papadaki, Kiosk Kallergis: 130, Tatoiou Street NEO Psychico: Kiosk Katichidis: E.Makariou & Michalakopoulou Street, Kiosk Doukas: 44, Diamantidou Street, Kiosk Gionis: 25, Chr.Smyrnis & Ag.Georgiou Street PAPAGOU: Mini Market Papavassiliou: 16, Ellispontou Street
PALEO Psychico: Kiosk Kyriakou: Solomou Square, Kiosk Gialama: Efkalypton Square, Kiosk Polydoros: Kifissias & Ag.Dimitriou Street, Kiosk Kalogeropoulos: V. GeorgiouSquare, Kiosk Kontabasis: 2, Amaryllidos & V. Pavlou Street, Kiosk Kalfagian: V. Georgiou B’ 11 POLITIA: Kiosk Vovlas: Politia Square VRILISSIA: Kiosk Theodoropoulou: 5, Analypsi Square, Kiosk Aggelopoulos: Pendelis Avenue & Omirou, Bookshop Karystinaiou: 69, Alefiou Street
SOUTHERN SUBURBS GLYFADA: Kiosk Tamourantzis: 3, Metaxa & Maragou Street, Kiosk Tsakanikas: 3, Lambraki Street, Kiosk Mavraki: Pandoras & Ioanni Metaxa, Kiosk Adamopoulos: 20, Ioanni Metaxa Street, Kiosk Papadakou: 7, Ioanni Metaxa Street, Kiosk Haikal: 1, Ioanni Metaxa & Fivis Street, Kiosk Bolota: Gounari & Iraklitou Street, Kiosk Bellou: 5, Saki Karagiorga Street, Mini Market Agiokatsikos: 24, Ilias Street HELLINIKO: NewsStand: 43-47, Vouliagmenis Avenue ILIOUPOLIS: Super Market Kokossis: 5, Glastonos Street LAGONISI: Kiosk Vassiliadis: 37,5 klm Athinon-Souniou Avenue NEA SMYRNI: Kiosk Manoussos: 28, Eleftheriou Venizelou Street VARKIZA: Kiosk Paraskevopoulou: Varkiza Square VOULA: Kiosk Leontopoulos: 12, Sokratous Street, Mini Market Pournara: 33, Pringipos Petrou Street, Kiosk Christopoulou: V. Pavlou & Ag. Ioanni Street VOULIAGMENI: Kiosk Andrioti: Armonias Square, Kiosk Chryssikos: 1, Ermou Street, Kiosk Kylitis: 14, Thisseos Street PALEO FALIRO: Kiosk Kombogianni: 1, Ag. Alexandrou Street, Kiosk Kapetanou: 24, Achilleos Street, Mini Market Nikouli: 9, Pliadon Street, Tobacco & Gifts Berekos: 1, Possidnos Avenue & Moraitini Street PIRAEUS: Hand Delivery Telstar: 57, Akti Miaouli, Tourist Chop Siatras: 46, Akti Koumoundourou Street, Kiosk Samarogiannis: 7, Merarhias B’Street, Kiosk Siaho: Akti Moutsopoulou (Kanari Square), Kiosk Kentros: 73, Iroon Polytechniou Street, Kiosk Fotis: 1, Loudovikou Street, Kiosk Spalas: 111, Karaiskou Street, Newsstand: Railway Station Loudovikou Square
www.mysephora.gr
For central Athens stores, see on map ASPROPIRGOS Filis 100 & Bouboulinas, Tel: 210.558.0989 ERMOU Ermou 24 Tel: 210. 331.3167 & 325.7744 KALLITHEA Thisseos & Davaki, Tel: 210.956.5959 - 956.5446 KIFISSIA Kassaveti 6, Tel: 210.623.1741 & 623.1742 KORYDALLOS Taxiarhon 110A, Tel: 210.569.5270 569.5998 THE MALL, Notios Paradromos Attikis Odou, Tel: 210.630.0125 & 630.0126 AVENUE Kifissias 41-45, Tel: 210.610.9739 & 610.9740
68 insider athens | February 2014
GOLDEN HALL Kifissias Av. 37A & Sp. Louis, Tel: 210.683.7343 PANGRATI Ymittou 110 & Hremonidou, Tel: 210.751.8005 GLYFADA A. Metaxa 33-35, Tel: 210. 894.3378 & 894.5884 KOLONAKI Milioni 2, Tel: 210. 361.2666 & 362.9925 NEA MAKRI Marathonos Av. 117, Tel: 229.409.9661 PERISTERI Ethnikis Antistaseos 12, Tel: 210. 571.0755 PETROU RALLI Petrou Ralli 97, Tel: 210. 569.6596 & 569.7316 PIKERMI 21oklm. Marathonos Av., Tel: 210. 603.9987 Psychico Kifissias 210, Tel: 210. 677.5527 & 674.0178 VRILISSIA Pentelis Av. 72, Tel: 210. 810.1971 & 810.1972
city map
Map courtesy of Emvelia Publications
insider athens | February 2014 69
Insider pet guide Vets • Alouros: Boutique vet for cats only. Specified feline care includes a gas anaesthetic, from
which cats come round almost immediately with fewer side effects than the injection cocktail. Esperou 2, Paleo Faliro. Tel: 210.985.4262 • Panos Marafelias: Panos Marafelias is a specialised wildlife vet,working with wild bird hospitals, but he is also an experienced diagnostician for companion animals. G. Papandreou Av. 45, Zografou. Tel: 210.778.2981 • Attiko Nosokomeio Zoon and Pikermi Animal Clinic: These 24-hour vet clinics are a lifeline for animal victims of poisoning and traffic accidents. The prices are high, but they offer state-of-the-art equipment and facilities. Best for emergencies only. 20th klm Lavriou Av, Paiania. Tel: 210.664.0552 • Christos Ktenas: Christos and his partner vet are caring and knowledgeable, and make special discounts for stray animal treatment. Riga Feraiou 11, Nea Erythrea. Tel 210.620.2150 • Popi Marouli: Is hugely experienced with stray cats in particular, having participated in numerous cat-sterilisation programmes. Agion Anargiron 32B, Maroussi. Tel: 210.721.3109, 210.805.1542 • Chrisa Simou: Graduated from Edinburgh Veterinary University, specialized in dermatology. Considerate and thorough vet, with modest rates. M. Mousourou 12, Mets-Pangrati. Tel: 210.922.1123.
Petsitters kennels • Le Chat Noir: Petsitters International-registered Brenda-Lee Mahoney petsits in your home everywhere in Athens. Tel: 697.227.1447
• Petsit.gr: Katerina offers petsitting around Athens, call for more details 698.701.8121 • Animal Hotel.gr: Kennels/cattery near the airport at Kalyvia. Tel: 697.335.9728 • ILoveDogs.gr : Kennels at Varibombi. Tel 210.243.3334 or 697.768.7840 • Home-from-home for a few sociable, neutered & vaccinated dogs at a time, complete with dog-pool for summer. Varibombi. Tel: 697.631.5180
70 insider athens | February 2014
uov
Pet-shops • Bark Avenue: Excellent selection of items for dogs and cats, to suit every
need and desire, and very helpful staff. Kifissias 206, Neo Psychico. Tel: 210.677.1001 • San to Skylo Me Tin Gata: Tiny shop behind the Kallimarmaro jam-packed with goodies for your pets. Archimidous 15, Mets. Tel: 210.756.2493 • Pet Net: Good variety of pet-food, beds, leads, treats etc. Xenokratous 48, Kolonaki. Tel 210.729.0544 Also branches in Holargos, Kifissia, see www. petnet.gr
Pet taxis
Pet Grooming
• Agis Pet Taxi: 697.202.0205 • Yellow Pet Taxi: 694.477.0077 • TaxiBeat – upload the app and search for
• Pet Bloom: K. Varnali 74, N. Erythrea. Tel: 210.620.8181 • Doggy Style: Kimisseos Theotokou 10, Kifissia.
nearby taxis; those which accept pets are marked with a paw print. Sina 11, Athens
Tel: 210.612.0184
• Kountouri Athina: Vas. Olgas Av. 178, Thessaloniki. Tel: 231.042.6292
Animal welfare NGOs • Hellenic Animal Welfare Society (Filozoiki): Purpose-built kennels at Koropi, subsidized neutering for pets, dogs and cats for adoption. P.O. Box 120, Koropi. Tel: 210.602.0202.
• SPAZ Society for the Protection of Stray Animals: Energetic team helping people to help
animals in the southern suburbs of Athens. Stray neutering programmes, veterinary care and education. www.spazgreece.gr • Adespotologio: Informal group of young volunteers caring for stray dogs and cats, through neutering, veterinary care and adoption. www.adespotologio.gr • Stray Life: Activities and events to raise awareness about animals and their welfare, and active adoption programmes. www.stray-life.gr • Friends of Animals, Nea Filadelphia: They operate a shelter for the stray/abandoned dogs of Nea Filadelphia, run education programmes for children, and try to neuter and rehome as many dogs (and cats) from the area as possible. www.friendsofanimals-nf.com • Nine Lives Greece: Active network of volunteers dedicated to helping stray cats through veterinary care, neutering, feeding and adoption. www.ninelivesgreece.com
insider athens | February 2014 71
K A L E I DOSCOP E 1
2
3
4
6
5 7
Old coins, new interest: A peek at one of the country’s oldest museums housing Greece’s numismatic treasures - the Numismatic Museum. A few reasons why the visit is worth every cent: Designed by master German architect Ernst Ziller, the Numismatic Museum was also the former residence of another celebrated German – archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann. The mansion not only reflects the neoclassical craze of the late 19th century and Italian Renaissance styles that Ziller was known for, but also represents the rich legacy of its first occupant with decorative paintings inspired by Pompeii and with the finds of Schliemann at Troy and Mycenae adorning its interior walls. But the museum primarily merits a visit for its extraordinary collection of over 600,000 items, including coins, lead seals, weights, medals and gem stones (from ancient Greece, Rome, Byzantium, the civilizations of the East, medieval and modern Europe, America and the modern Greek state.) From top to bottom: 1. The stairs leading upto the museum, 2. An ancient coin dating back to Phillip II of Macedonia, 3. The principal room of the museum, 4. The Museum Shop, 5. A neo-classical statue in the garden, 6. The animated café in the museum’s garden, 7. The main entrance to the museum.
72 insider athens | February 2014
Astir Chocolating
Discover, taste and savour the finest chocolate recipes, creations and pleasures at the Astir Palace Resort. Chocolate is a special kind of pleasure: it’s always an extravagance, the fine ending of a dinner, a dietary sin we never regret, a child’s obsession and an adult’s object of desire. Astir Palace Resort pays tribute to Chocolate and organizes the sweetest winter party. The pastry team of the Astir Palace create the perfect destination for lovers of chocolate!
Arion Resort & Spa, Grill room 14-16 February & 21-23 February 2014 from 12:00 to 23:00 Entrance fee: €13 for adults, €8 for kids. Includes unlimited access to: • The story of Chocolate • Live chocolate creations Join us every Saturday • Chocolate tasting • Chocolate buffet at 2pm for cooking • Chocolate house with chocolate surprises workshops at €30 per person. Includes free entrance to • Chocolate fountain and fondue “Chocolating”. • Chocolate drinks • Chocolate quiz
With the support of: VALHRONA | TUSSO | NESPRESSO VEUVE CLICQUOT | EGEM
For more information, please contact 210 8902000 or visit www.arionresortathens.com, www.astir-palace.com
ATHENS