Insider 133 June 2017

THE CITY MAGAZINE OF

June 2017 Year 16. Issue 133 €4.50 ISSN 1790-3114

ATHENS

THE ART OF SUMMER

ART & CULTURE: Athens & Epidauros Festival, Maria Callas CITY LIFE: The New-Look Athens Airport, Best Hotel Pools PEOPLE: Victoria Hislop, Michael Landy, Deux Hommes SANTORINI SPECIAL: Stay, Shop, Eat, Drink PLUS The Big Debate: Making Greece Great Again! insider athensMORE |1 ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT, FOOD & WINE, NIGHTLIFE, SHOPPING, NOVELTIES, MAPS AND

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British artist Michael Landy claims, “Athens is not just the new Berlin, or even the new London, it is quite simply, the new Athens.” Is this indeed a Greek Renaissance we are witnessing? Or at the very least a coming-of-age for Greek art and style?

Michail-Alexander Passos of Fashion Assured, who has been providing a platform for young Greek designers, certainly seems to believe that Greece’s big moment is upon us. In this art and style-themed issue, he homes in on two audacious Greek fashion forces – one established, one breaking through – that represent the thrilling diversity and sartorial register now to be found in this country.

With Documenta still shining its light on the creative scene too, Greece seems to be attracting a different kind of tourist now: a more discerning traveler, who seeks out sophisticated, curated and above all, authentic, experiences that are instantly shareable and instagrammable.

While elsewhere in this issue, some of Athens’ finest industry voices debate on the need for a blueprint for sustainable tourism, we also asked a few ‘outsider insiders’ (as celebrity author Victoria Hislop describes herself) to confess to their enduring Greek island romance and to capture the sights, smells, tastes and singular essence of their favourite Greek getaways.

If this is your first summer in Greece, you’ll soon realize that it’s not only born-and-bred Greek natives who are fiercely loyal to “their island”. Foreigners, too, have those special Greek islands that they return to each year, layering memories upon cherished moments, summer after summer.

As you get ready to surrender yourself to the charms of yet another memorable Greek summer, we hope that you will use our June issue, with its focus on art, fashion and style, as your perfect concierge for the “season”.

Sudha Nair-Iliades

Publisher

Photos

Sudha Nair - Iliades

Heather Nomvuyo Tshuma, Spiros Anastassatos, Kostas Mpekas, John Spathas, Fokia Kitsou

Editor Amanda Dardanis

French Editor

Contributors in this Issue

Anita Robert

Michail-Alexander Passos, Cristina Butler

Client Relations

Top image

Krysta Foteinopoulou

Graphic Design Fokia Kitsou

Subscriptions

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Founder

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Legal Counsel

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Prepress and Printing

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Grafima

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Amanda Dardanis

A print journalist for over two decades, Australian-born Amanda Dardanis started out at News Corp Australia where she has covered specialist rounds from news and politics; property and tourism; to crime and entertainment. In London, she held senior creative roles at glossy titles including Marie-Claire, Woman’s Own, and the Mail on Sunday’s YOU magazine. Since moving to Athens in 2009, she has written on Greece for international publications like The Times London, the Guardian UK and Australia’s Sunday Telegraph – and also contributes to local Greek publications.

Michail-Alexander Passos

Having obtained an MBA in Leicester University, UK and a Finance degree from Piraeus University, Michail-Alexander is a brand consultant & strategist with more than 8 years of combined experience in the fields of fashion marketing, branding and consulting. Having gained significant exposure in the Fashion Industry through his work and his studies at the London College of Fashion, he established Fashion Assured, an Athens-based fashion marketing agency in 2014 and in 2016 he launched his own fashion label, The Motley Goat.

Heather Nomi Tshuma Photographer Heather Nomi Tshuma was born in Zimbabwe, bred in the United Kingdom and has been based in Athens for the last two years, where she is co-owner of The Creative Studio Athens. Heather’s editorial work often reflects her life experiences and the impact it has had on her creativity, while her Black and White portraits capture moments and experiences of a deeper interior. See her stunning portfolio at www.nomivphotography.com

Krysta Foteinopoulou After studying Broadcasting and Journalism at the Univesity of Wolverhampton, Krysta has reported live for the Greek public broadcaster ERT and covered European affairs and business news for the privately-owned SKAI TV. She has also contributed to several Greek sites and is now the newest addition to the Insider Team.

Cristina Butler

Brazil-born, Paris-raised Cristina Butler studied as an interpreter at the Sorbonne and speaks six languages fluently. An intrepid traveller, her career as a cruise director has taken her the world over. Cristina served as the President of the prestigious Women’s International Club and is currently using her considerable public relations skills to organise events and aid charities.

Passionate about food, Cristina is Insider’s international food contributor

Spyros Anastassatos Anastassatos Spyros’ relationship with pictures began from a childhood influenced by his father, who served as a director of photography in Greek cinema. Born in Cyprus, Anastassatos studied at the Athens Technological Educational Institute, specialising in Advertising Photography. He has worked as an assistant photographer to S. Paschos, and collaborated with the creative agency “Ace models” and haute couture designers. As the founder of Studio Anastassatos, he specialises in Advertising Photography and Graphic Design for companies and magazines in Greece and abroad.www.studioanastassatos.com

Fokia Kitsou Fokia is Insider’s graphic designer and a student of graphic design at the Technological Educational Institution of Athens.

Born and raised in Athens which she adores, her native city has often been the subject of her photographic essays. Fokia is passionate about travel, art and fashion and plans to further her studies in the field of fashion design.

Anita Robert Anita has had a long and interesting stint with the Swiss print media and in teaching journalism to budding reporters before moving on to a career in public relations for international organizations and public institutions. Anita is the editor of Athens Insider’s sister publication in French Bonjour Athènes and is the enterprising spirit behind the Refugee Food Festival in Athens.

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Urban Poetry in Motion

40 Athens & Epidaurus Festival

8

Our ultimate guide to the must-see moments of this year’s Festival – from the high-profile to the experimental.

BUSINESS

Guardians of the Galaxy

12

In an exclusive interview, Cyrille Dupont, CEO of Thales Greece, discusses Greece’s space programme, cybersecurity challenges and his belief in Greece’s future as an international business hub.

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CITY SCOPE

Flights of Fancy

16

Your Insider’s guide to getting the most out of the fantastic new-look Athens Airport, including the best new shopping and dining experiences.

Guardians of the Galaxy

12

The Great Debate: Greece–All it can Be 24 Athens Insider gathered a group of eminent Athenians around the dinner table to discuss a collective and sustainable blueprint for Greek tourism.

ART & CULTURE

Maria Callas: Mistress of Herself

30

The Mirror Man

32

What you’ll see at the new Maria Callas tribute and why “La Divina” is still relevant in these troubled times.

Amanda Dardanis meets the famously-destructive British artist Michael Landy to talk about his creative legacy and why Athens now has the artistic edge over London.

Flights of Fancy

CITY LIFE

The Big Blue

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We scout the most luxe hotel pools in Athens to help you make a stylish splash this summer.

FASHION

Elementally Greek

38

Introducing the unconventional jewelry designer Nefelia Papanayiotou and her architectural creations that are giving an industrial kick to wearable art.

Where Athens’ Aesthetes go to Drink

52

Urban Poetry in Motion Elementally Greek

40

Fashion should be emotional, say the faces behind Greece’s most successful design duo Deux Hommes: Demitris Alexakis and Gregoris Triantafyllou.

Sections Arts & Events

06

Santorini Style Council

Fast Lane

20

Art & Culture

30

42

Michail-Alexander Passos tells us what to pack in our suitcase this summer to look the part on one of Greece’s most sartorially-splendid islands.

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TRAVEL

Victoria Hislop’s Crete

Fashion 38

44

The best-selling author shares her beloved Crete - the magnetic island that claimed her heart.

Santorini Vows

48

From Grape to Glass

50

Travel 44 Kaleidoscope

72

Sophia Velissaridi-Michail explains the fierce magic of Santorini, the Cycladic island of the gods that shaped both her childhood and wedding day.

44 Itadakimasu!

54

Experience Santorini’s fascinating wine route from grape to glass, on a superb winery encounter with Santorini’s most prized wine label.

GASTRONOMY

Where Athens’ Aesthetes go to Drink 52 We reveal the wonderfully-arty Athens rooftop bar that you need to get friendly with this Summer!

Itadakimasu!

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Say Cheese to Kostarelos

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Sin for your Supper

58

Kikuko Nishibayashi, president of LAASA (Lady Ambassadors and Ambassador’s Spouses) exchanges recipes and Japanese table rituals with Cristina Butler.

Introducing Kolonaki’s high temple to all things dairy and one of the city’s best “lunch on the go” deli destinations.

Resistance may be useless, but persistence was everything for the Sotiropoulos brothers who triumphed through trying times to create a purist food proposition that’s sinfully good.

Cover image: Poster by Ifigenia Vasiliou for Athens Festival

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arts&events August 7-13

Islands

ANCIENT THEATRE OF PYTHAGORION Samos Young Artists Festival Connect musical contradictions and contrasts in the beautiful ancient theatre of Pythagorion with the return of the Samos Young Artists Festival, hosted by the Schwarz Foundation. You’ll hear classical Music and Jazz, Opera, Folklore and music of the world. Experience famous established musicians alongside fresh young talents on a week-long memorable musical journey.

For information on tickets and programme, email info@samosfestival.com or visit www.samosfestival.com Ancient Theatre of Pythagorion, Pythagorion, Samos, www.samosfestival.com

Citronne Gallery Poros Afrodite Liti - Glafkes Discover the immaculate sculptural statements of Afrodite Liti as the Archeological Museum of Poros hosts a vivid showing of the Athensbased artist’s work, put together by the island’s premier art space, Citronne Gallery. Liti, whose art studies have taken her from Italy to England and Greece, has featured in many solo and group exhibitions around the world such as the Biennale in Alexandria, Madrid, Art Athina, Deste, and the Museum of Contemporary Art in Thessaloniki.

Archeological Museum of Poros, Citronne Gallery, Poros, tel: 229.802.2401, www.citronne.com

Music

June 14

PARNASSOS CONCERT HALL Alain Lefèvre Recital Hear the world-famous concert pianist Alain Lefèvre - known as the “Canadian Mozart” - at a recital to raise funds for Cerebral Palsy Greece. Lefèvre, who will play compositions from his latest CD “Sas Agapo”, has performed in over forty countries at most of the world’s iconic stages (Carnegie Hall, Kennedy Center, Royal Albert Hall, Royal Festival Hall); and has also appeared at dozens of international festivals including the Athens Festival.

Tickets are €35. To book, phone 210.965.0916 or 210.963.7124.

Parnassos Concert Hall, Saint George Square 8, Athens.

June 8-11

Festivals

Until October 31

ATHENS NATIONAL GARDEN Athens Garden Festival Athens’ National Garden comes alive during the 3-day free Athens Garden Festival, with “natural musical landscapes and expressions of romance” as the themes of this year’s programme. The public is invited to two of the Greek capital’s biggest green spaces to enjoy 13 admission-free concerts by local ensembles and singers, and to take part in environmental activities.

Athens National Garden, Αmalias 1.

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Exhibitions

Until July 16

ONASSIS CULTURAL CENTRE Tomorrows Artists, architects and designers weave stories about the cities of tomorrow, presenting both utopian and dystopian scenarios about what may lie ahead of us, in a thought-provoking 3-month exhibition staged by the Onassis Cultural Centre and aimed at encouraging a critical engagement with seminal changes already happening today.

Diplarios School, Theatrou sq 3, Athens, www.sgt.gr

Until July 16

Until September 3

BOUZIANI MUSEUM Brigitte Polemis: #iFollow

MUSEUM OF CYCLADIC ART Divine Dialogues: Cy Twombly

A timely exhibition exploring the adaptation of social media to contemporary life and the addiction many of us suffer in getting “likes” on our posts. The display – by LebanesePolish artist Brigitte Polemis – is part of documenta 14.

G. Bouziani 27-31, Dafni, tel: 210.902.8455

For the first time, 30 works by the great contemporary American artist Cy Twombly, inspired by his fascination with Greek mythology and his close ties with Greece, are presented alongside 12 ancient artworks, revealing a rare and original dialogue between ancient Greek and modern art.

Neophytou Douka 4, Athens, tel: 210.722.8321, www.cycladic.gr

Until September 17 BENAKI MUSEUM Liquid Antiquity Encounter a riveting argument for a merger between antiquity and contemporary art at this new installation launched by the DESTE Foundation for Contemporary Art, which explores the possibility of reinventing classicism.

A video installation, “Liquid Antiquity: Conversations” features conversations with artists such as Matthew Barney, Jeff Koons and Asad Raza in dialogue with the Benaki’s permanent antiquities collection.

Koumbari 1 & Vasilisis Sofias Ave, Kolonaki, www.benaki.gr

Art Fair

TAE KWON DO STADIUM Art-Athina 2017

May 26-28

Join in a three–day celebration of the capital’s artistic renaissance as Art-Athina 2017 brings together the most influential local galleries and international exhibitors under the one roof. This year, there will be 56 participating galleries from Greece and abroad (including a strong L.A. contingent). As usual, the Athens Insider team will be there to greet you throughout the show. Come and see us at Booth 6 on the First Floor.

Not just another art fair, this sophisticated highlight of the Athenian art calendar should not be missed. Opening hours are 12.00-21.00 Tickets are €8.

Tae Kwon Do Stadium, Faliro, www.artathina.gr

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Art & Culture

What to See at the Athens Festival If ever you need evidence of the relation between artistic creativity and political engagement, look no further. As Europe craves for its lost identity, the Athens Festival serves as a prism to view the diversity and complexity of the world, provoking a dialogue between art and social reality. A round-up of the most thought-provoking highlights this June.

Music

Imany French pop-soul singer Imany’s husky rendition of “You will never know,” remains one of the most popular songs on Greek airtime and the artist claims that Greece is one of her favourite destinations. The singer and her band will perform at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus for a single concert. Performing at the Odeon is, by her own admission, a dream come true. Imany will sing older hits and new songs from her latest album The Wrong Kind of War. WHERE: Odeon of Herodes Atticus WHEN: June 15 at 9pm TICKETS INFO: Regular tickets: 15€ - 50€, Students: 10€, People with disabilities: 5€, Unemployed: 5€

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Theatre

FROM THE BASEMENT TO THE ROOF Shieveh Theatre Company Directed by Afsaneh Mahian, this documentary drama tells the story of “The Yellow Dogs,” an underground rock band from Tehran that migrates to New York. Then one of the band members murders three of his colleagues and injures another before committing suicide. The much-lauded, award-winning play is structured as four intermingling monologues which provide a different perspective of contemporary Iranian life: oppression; immigration; music; drug culture.

WHERE: Peiraios 260, D WHEN: June 8 and 9 at 9pm TICKET INFO: Regular 20€, Students 10€ Disabled 5€, Unemployed 5€

Visual Arts

Manifesto Julian Rosefeldt A 13-channel film installation by German artist and filmmaker Julian Rosefeldt which pays homage to the literary beauty of 20th century artistic manifestos. From Futurism, Dada, and Pop Art to Fluxus, Lars von Trier’s Dogme 95, and Jim Jarmusch’s Golden Rules of Filmmaking, these texts are re-interpreted as monologues, performed by Cate Blanchett. Blanchett portrays thirteen distinct roles, among which, a choreographer, a factory worker, a stockbroker, and a homeless man. The film reveals both the performative dimension and the political significance of these declarations, while questioning the role of the artist today.

WHERE: Peiraios 260, A WHEN: June 5 to July 19 at 7pm TICKET INFO: Regular tickets: 5€

Dance

A Hand’s Turn Lenio Kaklea A Hand’s Turn is the new choreographic work by Lenio Kaklea in the form of a 25-minute private session. The choreographer investigates functional, political, and symbolic dimensions of the left-right division, examining the tension between face and mask, body and face.

After the appointment, the viewers will be able to purchase part of the choreography in the form of a book.

WHERE: Peiraios 260, B WHEN: Every half hour from 7pm to 11.30 pm from June 1 to 4, June 7 to 11, June 14 to 18, June 21 to 25, June 27 to 30, July 1 and 2 TICKETS INFO: Regular 10€, Students 5€, Unemployed 5€

Opera

Madama Butterfly by Giacomo Puccini Greek National Opera Puccini’s Madama Butterfly, in a magnificent production directed by the acclaimed Argentinian director Hugo de Ana, returns to the Odeon of Herodes Atticus for five performances, conducted by Loukas Karytinos. The plot revolves around the doomed romance of fifteen-yearold geisha Cio-Cio-san a.k.a. Butterfly, and B. F. Pinkerton, Lieutenant in the US Navy. Puccini’s “Japanese tragedy,” is brought to life by remarkable vocal soloists, including Cellia Costea, Sae Kyung Rim (CioCio-san), Elena Kassian (Suzuki), Stefano Secco / Dimitris Paksoglou (Pinkerton), and Dionysios Sourbis (Sharpless).

In Italian, with Greek and English surtitles WHERE: Odeon of Herodes Atticus WHEN: May 31, June 2,3,4 and 7 at 9pm TICKET INFO: Regular tickets: 25€ - 100€,Students: 15€, People with disabilities: 15€

Dance

Titans Euripides Laskaridis – OSMOSIS Two lonely creatures continuously re-discover eternity and reflect on the small and big things which make up our world: the fragments of daily routine, the beauty of starlight, and the stillness of time. Euripides Laskaridis’ group premieres its new work, Titans, at the Athens Festival, before moving on to Barcelona, Turin, Amsterdam, Paris, and various other destinations.

WHERE: Peiraios 260, E WHEN: June 6 to 8 at 9pm TICKETS INFO: ​Regular from 20€ to 25€, Students: 12€, People with disabilities: 5€, Unemployed: 5€

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Art & Culture

Events Company of Wolves Athens Open Air Film Festival One of the best movies of the 1980s and an indisputable gem of fantasy cinema, Neil Jordan’s The Company of Wolves imaginatively revamps the classic tale of Red Riding Hood and the cinematic werewolf mythology at large. Jordan conveys this coming-of-age story of the 13-year-old heroine who celebrates the end of her innocence through a dreamlike, hallucinatory, often misleading narrative, blurring the boundaries between reality and fantasy, truth and fable.

WHERE: Peiraios 260, Garden D WHEN: June 13 at 9pm TICKETS INFO: Free Entrance

Theatre

Hymn to Love Marta Górnicka Polish director Marta Górnicka presents Hymn to Love, a play about Poland’s and, by extension, Europe’s hypocritical stance on the issue of humanitarian values. The old continent closes ranks, as nation after nation cries out: “Give us back our country!” Górnicka castigates the age-long mentality of “us” versus “them,” while Teoniki Rożynek’s elaborate musical arrangement elevates this powerful production that is at once a battle cry and a wake-up call for Europe.

WHERE: Peiraios 260, H WHEN: June 1 and 2 at 9pm TICKET INFO: Regular 20€ - 25€, Students: 12€, People with disabilities: 5€, Unemployed: 5€

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Business

Guardians of the Galaxy Speaking to Mr. Cyrille Dupont, CEO of Thales Greece proves revelatory. On the face of it, few have heard of Thales and even fewer know what a company like Thales does. When in fact, it appears to be an invisible presence in most aspects of our daily routines Thales provides signaling and supervision system while you’re waiting to get into the train or the metro. It is at play when you make a bank transfer, when you board a plane or check the weather! In an exclusive interview with Athens Insider, Cyrille Dupont touches on the exciting new phase of Greece’s fledgling space programme, cyber-security challenges and his belief in Greece’s unique positioning as a hub for international businesses.

Thales CEO Cyrille Dupont in an exclusive interview with Athens Insider just ahead of the launch of Hellas Sat 3 12 | insider athens

AEROSPACE

SPACE

GROUND TRANSPORTATION

Thales is currently upgrading signalling and telecommunications on a 73 km section of the Athens Patras line.

Thales’s integrated solutions will allow trains to travel up to 200 km/h.

Thales has deployed signalling, communications and supervision solutions in more than 30 countries worldwide.

Employees

64,000 64,000

DEFENCE

Global presence

56 countries 56

SECURITY

Self-funded R&D* 2016

731 million €743

GREECE GETS A PIECE OF THE SKY

SENDING GREEN SIGNALS

You’ve just come back from a visit to Thales’ facilities in Cannes with the Greek Minister for Digital Media and Telecommunications, Mr. Nikos Pappas to see the new Greek-Cypriot satellite Hellas Sat 3, currently under final preparation before departure to its launch site. Could you tell us a bit more about Greece’s space programme and how it would translate into tangible benefits for Greek citizens?

Indeed. We are very excited to be part of Greece’s space programme.

Mr Nikos Pappas hopes to take Greece into a new era with the formation of the Greek National Space Agency and the launch of the new Greek-Cypriot satellite, Hellas Sat 3.

Built jointly for the London based satellite operator company Immarsat, the satellite will be primarily controlled at Hellas Sat’s centre in Koropi, Attica. It will be launched by the European launcher, Ariane 5, from the French Guyana this summer.

Hellas Sat 3 satellite is a telecommunications satellite, which aims to increase the data transmission and broadcasting capacity of Greece and its neighbouring countries.

Thales Hellas has an important role to ensure that technology transfers are promoted in the field of space technology, knowing that the European Space Agency operates on the so-called Geo-return model. In other words, if Greece invests 15 million euros into the European Space Agency, it must recover 15 million euros of activity (‘geo-return’). Thales Hellas thus adds real value by making sure that Greek funds are reinvested into the Greek economy.

The potential applications opened up by satellite include better surveillance systems for the army, advanced weather forecasting, flood prevention, surveillance of borders and monitoring wildfires.

Thales has supplied much of the country’s air traffic control systems as well as signalling systems for the mainline rail network and supervision and communication systems for the Athens metro. What new infrastructure projects is Thales working on at the moment?

Thales is one of the major players in railway signaling and railway telecommunication. Thales is currently installing two signalling systems, which will increase both the safety of high speed trains and the commercial speed at which these trains operate. Thales will be equipping the line from Kiato to Rododafni, near Patras and another line from Athens to the Bulgarian border in Promachonas. We hope to connect Athens to Patras within 2 hours. Thales provides the supervision system and the passenger information system as well, to the Athens metro which ensures a safe journey for passengers.

Furthermore, Thales has an extensive experience in driverless metro. In service since 2009, the Dubai metro is one of the longest driverless metro lines in the world and is equipped with the entire package of Thales solutions, including signalling, ticketing, telecommunications and supervision systems.

As far as air traffic control is concerned, Thales systems monitor 40% of the world’s airspace and it is the world leader in surveillance systems for commercial air navigation.

Thales is number 1 worldwide in Air Traffic management. Two out of three aircraft in the world take off and land using Thales systems.

Thales has equipped over 160 control centres around the world, which cover more than 40% of global airspace. Greece has been part of Thales’s loyal customers for years. The purpose of air traffic control is to improve safety in air transport and control airplanes that are flying over Greek

We’re very excited to be part of Greece’s space programme with the launch of the new GreekCYPRIOT satellite, Hellas Sat 3, this summer.

“

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Business

HACK ATTACK How critical is Thales’ role in a world threatened by security issues and cyber-terrorism in particular?

We live in an interconnected world where information systems and the Internet play an increasingly important role in government, business and the everyday activities of private individuals. At the same time, persistent, targeted cyber attacks of growing sophistication have proven their potential to wreak havoc on our economies and threaten the integrity of our organisations. To address these new threats, ensure business continuity and safeguard our social fabric, cyberspace needs to be protected. Thales, as a trusted partner, is one of the European leaders in the fast-growing market of cyber-security and the world leader in data protection. We are the world leader in providing security systems for payment transactions.

Around 80% of the world’s payment systems are equipped with Thales systems so hacking and cybersecurity breaches are an aspect we are acutely aware of and something that we manage quite well. Thales stays ahead of the game by developing solutions that anticipate and counter these threats. We also are in constant contact with labs, research institutes and centres of learning, Thales also acquired Vormetric, a US company that is the world leader in data protection.

Unfortunately cyber criminality is something we have to contend with. The target of these nefarious activities are either state governments or the media such as the attack onTV5 Monde a couple of years ago or companies such as Sony, the theft of industrial secrets, or high-risk facilities such as the electricity grid or nuclear power stations, airports, or trains – so you have to look at all the possibilities. I don’t want to sound too catastrophic but we have to prepare for every possible threat. Our expertise spans every aspect of cyber security, from cryptology to intrusion testing, from risk analysis to security audits. It includes network security, operating system security and database security, security architectures,

configuration and implementation of business applications as well as training and rapid response forces.

ENGINEERING GREEK TALENT Thales has been consistently investing in young Greek talent. How fruitful has this strategy been for Thales Hellas?

Thales has been in Greece for the past 30 years but with a dedicated engineering unit devoted to the manufacturing and testing of the radar and the electronic warfare of the Mirage 2000 fighter aircrafts since 2000. We have been training highly educated young Greek engineers with Thales methodologies and standards. We have a core group of highly qualified engineers who are responsible not just for Greece but also for our neighbouring countries Cyprus, Albania, Bulgaria, FYROM and Kosovo. At Thales, we believe that Greece offers a highly skilled, motivated work force when you provide them with a conducive work environment. In the case of Thales Hellas for example, since 2015, we have also been responsible for supporting NATO’s sites in Europe (Air Command & Control Systems capability) and our Greek engineers who monitor these sites are referred to as ‘flying doctors’. So our initial investment in training these young engineers has paid off and we are now a skills-hub for all those NATO location in Europe.

“

airspace. Also all control systems assist in the landing and take-off of airplanes always with a view to improving the safety of air transport. It must also be understood that air traffic control is a generator of revenue for Greece because each airplane flying over Greek territory pays a royalty to the Greek state.

Thales stays ahead of the game by developing solutions that anticipate and counter these cyber threats.

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CEO-SPEAK You wear many hats – you are the head of the French Trade Advisors in Greece and of the FrenchHellenic Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

How difficult is it to run a business in Greece?

Running a business is challenging but I don’t think being a CEO in Greece is significantly more difficult than elsewhere. My observation - in my role as a representative of French business interest in Greece has been that all French companies who were present here - have furthered their investments and presence here. Except for the banking sector, all the key French companies have demonstrated their faith in Greece and in its future.

Your management mantra?

Always hire people who are aware of their weaknesses before those who claim to know it all.

Cyrille Dupont at Thales’ headquarters in Koropi, Attica Images by Fokia Kitsou

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M

y, what a difference a year makes. Did you ever think we’d be singing the praises of the Athens Airport as one of the best shopping and dining experiences in town? Now, with the dramatic overhaul of its passenger facilities, most notably in the Schengen area, AIA Eleftherios Venizelos has replaced its rather stale offerings of old with a vibrant and fluid new “Greek Neighbourhood”, where the only flight risk will be the one of you missing your plane!

If you haven’t yet been, the Schengen precinct has been completely demolished and re-designed to create a streamlined “flow-through” encounter that’s squarely aimed at coaxing passengers into a more enjoyable consumption-based sequence.

Whereas before, you had the dreaded security ordeal looming over your head while you shopped or grabbed hasty last-minute sustenance and caffeine, now the centralized check-in system dispenses with that right at the beginning. It’s a win-win situation for both the airport’s numerous new retailers and for travelers who’ll now be in a much better headspace to browse and buy, linger and consume.

From locavore gourmet enticements and premium Greek winery popups where you can enjoy a pre-flight food and wine pairing, to highquality Greek brand ambassadors and coveted international labels, we recommend that you check-in for your flight a good hour or so earlier than usual on your next trip, to really soak up all the great new offerings.

In the new high-aesthetic environment (which models itself on a typical Greek agora), you can pick up cut-above Greek souvenirs such as herb-scented toiletries with funky greek writing or a contemporary art collectible; the latest electronic gadget or summer best-seller from Public to amuse you during your flight. Or treat yourself to a last-minute impulse buy of a stunning holiday frock from Greek design stars such as Zeus + Dione.

Do heed our warning though! With the new-look deconstructed layout, where restaurants and cafes stretch out invitingly into the gate waiting areas and jaunty mall-style tunes compete with the flight announcements, it’s all too easy now to lose all track of time and place!

Here’s how the new design operates, to help you get the most out of the improved Athens Airport:

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The Greek Designers Store-Di Gaia Sandals

City Scope

Weekend - MaxMara

Hellenic Gourmet

Security check

To enter the capital’s newest shopping destination, your boarding pass is your open sesame. With a little patience (so far the new system has been operating very smoothly but it is summer after all), you’ll soon be rewarded.

Duty Free

Next, you’ll encounter the extended Duty Free area. A tip, do not linger too much in the huge duty free that you are obliged to walk through to join your plane. Another Last Minute duty free awaits at the other end of the Departures area, which is less crowded and more relaxed.

The right wing of the Main duty free, however, does offer a good range of Greek products of excellent quality, which we always find difficult to resist. They make superb and much-appreciated gifts for friends and family living outside of Greece. In particular, the Mastiha brand, which sells products based on mastic, the famous resin that evokes sea air and pine needles and is harvested only from the trees of the island of Chios. eatgreek - Kouzina

Shopping

The former Schengen shopping hall area has been re-constructed in a diamond formation scheme with white lights fashioned in a striking zig-zag arrangement on the ceiling (in the manner of the AngloIranian architect Zaha Hadid). Everything gives a sense of harmony, style and symmetry. Here, you’ll find popular Greek cosmetic brands Apivita and Korres, followed by some twenty luxury fashion and jewellery stores including (Armani, Max Mara, Michael Kors and Links of London) that are accessible to all passengers.

For foodies, Hellenic Gourmet plies a marvelous range of cheeses, greek sweets, wines, olive oils and honey (try their wonderful Meligyris woodland honey with sage); while Terkenlis is your go-to place for traditional greek sweet fancies such as tsoureki and bougatsa.

If you’re in the market for a classy Greek collectible, Artpoint, in the Departures Level, has some terrific handmade, and limited-edition Greek memorabilia, such as museum replicas and innovative accessories, all showcasing Ancient Greek history, civilization and cuisine. Or if it’s a wearable collectible you fancy, head for the fashionista’s favourite Zeus + Dione for their earthy elegance rooted in classic Mediterranean semaphores.

But if you visit only one shop, make it The Greek Designers Store, where you’ll find a wonderfully-curated collection of sunshine-inspired clothing, shoes and accessories. It’s a microcosm of some of the hottest Greek designers of the moment (including Di Gaia, SunofaBeach - we can’t get enough of their beach towels! - and Salty Bag who cleverly re-use retired sails in their designs).

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The newly revamped Accessorize store

WHSmith

Cafes, bars and restaurants

Fun fact: There’s now a total of 30 dining spaces at the Athens Airport.

The former Buondi café has disappeared under the abundance of new brands and old favourites that have been given a well-needed bit of spit and polish such as Everest and Flo Café.

We particularly love the stylish new Airti Coffee & Nuts outlet (just look out for the eye-catching Γάιδαρος - donkey sculpture) where you can buy delicious roasted blends, Greek mountain herbs for tea, chocolatebased morsels and dried fruits presented in large jute bags that you’ll most likely devour before you manage to give them away as gifts.

The Greek Designers Store

Meanwhile, for those of you departing from the Non-Schengen Area, which has also undergone a similar re-boot we highly recommend you take the time to stop and enjoy a glass of fine wine from the awardwinning Kir-Yianni Estate at the chic new Kir-Yianni Wine Bar.

Gate life

If you haven’t yet had your fix of archaeological wonders while in Athens, you can now take an 11th-hour culture trip while you wait at the gate. At the ground floor gates, there are large colourful pictures of ancient sites made by the famous Greek photographer Tassos Vrettos. By clicking on the hashtag at the bottom right of each image, you will know everything about the history of each of these historic places.

Arrivals area

If there’s not enough time to discover all the great new stores and restaurants when you leave, all is not lost. In a radical re-think, there is now a staircase connecting the departures and arrivals levels which means you’ll be able to go back into the mall on your return. Also awaiting you in the Departures area – and accessible to all airport visitors - is Anamnesia, where you’re guaranteed to find that perfect funky souvenir or irresistible gift trinket that is quintessentially Greek (such as an apron bearing a deconstructed Greek salad, or cushion cover with a tangle of bemused squid). Right next door is the newly revamped Accessorize, a haven for tweens, teens and wannabe queens.

All shopped out? Simply buy the latest issue of Athens Insider at one of the new WHSmiths and sit over a Greek coffee at the new Espresso bar before re-emerging from this wonderful new world.

Photos: Heather Nomi Tshuma

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Anamnesia

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Up Periscope

Adrian Villar Rojas comes to Athens Once you’ve seen an Adrián Villar Rojas art installation, we guarantee that you’ll never forget it.

The Argentinian sculptor, hailed as one of the most incisive artists of his generation, uses his epic public creations to push the boundaries of the imagination and to evoke visual confusion.

Working with clay, concrete, brick and organic matter, Villar Rojas constructs high-impact, unexpected intrusions – both architectural and emotional - on significant public spaces, such as the New York Metropolitan Museum, where he recently unveiled this fantastical plaster cast dinner party, titled Theatre of Disappearance, overlooking the Manhattan skyline (pictured).

Spring has sprung with a smart new look for Periscope, YES!Hotels’ antidote to the run-of-the-mill city centre hotel. With its exquisite comfy new lounge of cool blues, black and cream, and 24/7 refreshment bar, flanked by two whimsical oversized armchairs, this urban haven in the heart of Kolonaki continues to surprise and delight.

Designed by Athens’ decaArchitecture, the lounge was conceptualised around a theme of “submerged observation” where guests can claim mindful moments to enjoy buffet breakfast and all-day fruits and beverages from an executive-style buffet.

For culture vultures your prey is just around the corner; Athens’ most revered institutions are an easy stroll and include the Benaki Museum, Museum of Cycladic Art and the National Archaeological Museum.

If clean lines, order and tranquility are your thing, coupled with excellent and discrete customer service - and great wifi - Periscope is the ideal pied-à-terre for any discerning traveler wishing to immerse themselves at the heart of the Greek capital.

Periscope Hotel, Athens, tel: 210.729.7200, www.yeshotels.gr

Now, the latest chapter of Villar Rojas’ ongoing “Theatre of Disappearance” series will bring the 37-year-old to Athens to be let loose on the Hill of the Nymphs, National Observatory of Athens, at the behest of NEON. From June 1-September 24, Adrian Villar Rojas promises to radically alter the interior and exterior of the National Observatory. It will be the first time in his career that the acclaimed artist has taken on an archeological site.

We can’t wait to see what fantastic beasts will spring forth from that incredible imagination here in Athens!

La Divina to get a new Athens Address!

As well as the Maria Callas Exhibition currently showing at B & M Theocharakis Foundation, there are also exciting plans underway to open a permanent museum to “La Divina” in Athens.

Scheduled to open sometime in 2018, the Maria Callas Museum (MCM), hopes to preserve the great soprano’s myth and her musical legacy – as well as creating a dynamic new tourist attraction for the capital.

It will be one of the few permanent museums worldwide, and will be housed in a four-storey historic building of 1000sqm in downtown Athens (Mitropoleos St). Both the building and the collection belong to the municipality of Athens.

Visitors will be able to immerse themselves in some of Callas’ most celebrated roles in four theatrical soundscapes; explore her fascinating life and career through digital exhibits, interviews and costume displays; and acquire quality books and recordings.

There will also be a La Divina expresso and wine bar (to stay open outside museum hours) and a temporary exhibitions hall, available for use for small concerts, masterclasses and private dinner galas.

For more info: read “Maria Callas: Mistress of Herself” on page 30

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Heavenly Hermes Couture spotters will have clocked the slick recent revamp of the Hermès Kolonaki boutique at the coveted corner of Voukourestiou and Stadiou.

The luxury store has been expanded to span 158 square meters of retail heaven, and given a top-to-toe do-over by Parisian architecture agency RDAI.

Come Home for Summer with the Nostos Festival!

Next time you’re in the neighbourhood, drop in and check out some of the wonderful artistic flourishes such as the Shanghai line seats upholstered in colour-pop leather, and the talking-point window displays. Inspired by Hermès’ 2017 theme “Object sense”, the windows have been brought to life with striking “zoomorphic” themes that are the work of Greek artist and long-time brand collaborator Socratis Socratous and which cleverly morph together ancient Mediterranean iconography with a modern aesthetic.

Hermès, Voukourestiou 1 & Stadiou 4, Kolonaki, tel: 210.323.3715.

No matter what Summer personally means to you, the place to be this June 18-25, is the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre, as they wheel out their Summer Nostos Festival (SNFestival) - a week of brilliant free events, signifying a collective “return” or homecoming (“nostos”) for all of our Summer pleasures and past-times.

You can spend the whole week just dipping in and out of the wonderfully diverse and eclectic programme. Here’s just a small sampling that caught our eye: British acting icon Charlotte Rampling in a musical poetry performance; the rough and tumble of New Yorker Elizabeth Streb’s daredevil dances in the SNFCC Labyrinth; internationally-acclaimed magician Mark Mitton weaving his enchantments; electrifying Capoeira Brazilian martial arts displays; Greek National Opera ballet recitals to the minimal masterpieces of Philip Glass; and Russian chess supremo Garry Kasparovtaking taking on young Greek challengers.

In total, more than 400 Greek and international artists and contributors will collaborate creatively at SNFestival 2017, offering more than 75 events, held on 5 stages and many other spaces around the SNFCC. SNFestival 2017 takes place at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre, June 18-25. To see the full programme, visit www. snfcc.org.

Mary Pickford: Varoulko’s new Summer Siren We love it when great ingredients come together in perfect harmony to create a memorable concoction. Two Athens superstars - Varoulko Seaside and the team from Baba Au Rum, one of the world’s best cocktail dens - have joined forces this summer to launch an evocative new Piraeus bar experience on the rooftop of Varoulko Seaside. (Well, there’s three unbeatable ingredients really, if you count the stellar Mikrolimano views on offer from up there!).

Sample inventive cocktails by Thanos Pournarous and a delicious seafood-tilted finger food selection by the Michelin veteran Lefteris Lazarou and Giannis Parikos, all presented in an enchanted setting that will soon have you vowing to make the Mary Pickford bar your new Summer 2017 romance.

With its Art Deco aesthetic, inspired by the first ocean liners of the 1920s, you can easily picture the Roaring Twenties pin-up Mary Pickford sitting pretty alongside Douglas Fairbanks, nursing the classic Prohibition cocktail created in her honour!

Mary Pickford, Varoulko Seaside, Akti Koumoundourou 52, Piraeus, tel: 210.0412.3408.

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Top of the Glass Semeli has been garnering accolades from wine enthusiasts and connoisseurs worldwide – with a whopping 40 distinctions in 7 international competitions for 9 of Semeli’s wine labels in just 2017. Perhaps the most difficult breed to please -and usually prone to criticism over high praise, exigent wine critics on both sides of the Atlantic have been raising a toast to Semeli.

One of their star labels, Semeli Aetheria, named for one of the daughters of Helios in Greek mythology, is a blend of locally grown Chardonnay and Malagouzia, whose extraordinary flavour makes it one of the most aromatic Greek cultivars. This label has amassed accolades at the Challenge International Du Vin, the Concours Mondial De Bruxelles, the International Wine & Spirits Competition and has been commended at the Decanter World Wine Awards and the International Wine Challenge in London.

From select vineyards in the high-calibre Aegialia wine region at an altitude of 900m, Malagouzia is an aromatic and distinctive full bodied white wine with vivid aromas of exotic fruits produced from grapes grown on the slopes of Mt. Kithairon, the birthplace of Dionysos the god of wine! Chardonnays, have always been the perfect canvas for winemakers to express the terroir. A blend of these two distinctive varieties hit more high notes than an opera singer. Bright straw color with greenish highlights, intense on the nose, with aromas of ripe pear, green apple and fresh herbs, full and balanced in the mouth thanks to its crisp acidity, rich on the palate with hints of green fruit and lemongrass, and a spicy finish, Semeli Aetheria is the wine we recommend for a delicately balanced meal of sushi and sashimi, seafood carpaccio or seafood pasta. Yia mas!

Zaccys steps into Golden Hall Great news for Athens-based fans of Zaccys London.

Just in time to plug that wedge-shaped gap in our summer wardrobes, Zaccys’ super-flattering artisan espadrille range is now available at Attica Golden Hall.

Last December, Insider featured the uplifting success story of Zaccys’ founder Meg Cope, a former London eye surgeon, who courageously changed career to launch her luxury fashion venture, after her youngest child Zac was diagnosed with leukaemia in 2012.

La La Land in Concert Hear the Oscar-winning soundtrack from the movie that bewitched the world – performed live by the orchestra who created it, as the “La La Land in Concert” world tour lands in Athens for two nights.

Composer Justin Hurwitz, who won the Academy Award for Best Original Score will be joined on stage by a 73-member orchestra, a 40-member choir and jazz ensemble. Tickets, from €15, are available from www.viva.gr.

September 8-9 ,Tae Kwon Do Olympic Stadium, Faliro, www.stadia.gr

‘Medicine is an all-consuming job, which I had really loved, but Zac’s illness and years of treatment changed my priorities,’ Meg told Insider.

The idea for launching her own shoe range (named after her son) struck when the glamorous mother-of-three struggled to replace an ancient and much-loved pair of espadrille wedges that she’d bought on holiday in Italy.

Her exclusive hand-made designs are leather-lined with the finest leathers from Italy and Spain and their distinctive construction with a wedge, a platform and lack of ankle fixings provides comfort, height, and a supremely-flattering leg lengthening effect (making them perfect for everything from a backyard barbeque to a wedding!).

Every time a pair of Zaccys is purchased, Zaccys London make a donation to children’s cancer charities. In Greece they suppport Karkinaki.

Zaccys espadrilles are also available at Apoella boutiques in Sani, Daos Cove and Costa Navarino and Enny di Monaco in Mykonos, and online at www.zaccys.com with free delivery and returns to Greece.

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Tudor Hall, Hotel King George

Greece: All it can BE! Greece, apparently, has it all. It now also has a clear vision and consistent strategy to maximise Greece’s tourism potential. A group of eminent Athenians get together over dinner at the elegant Tudor Hall restaurant to discuss a collective, sustainable vision for Greek tourism.

Participants: Mr. Giorgos Tziallas, General Secretary for Tourism Policy and Development, Mr. Marthinus van Schalkwyk, Ambassador of South Africa (Former Minister of Tourism of South Africa), Mr. Michael Braad, Ambassador of Denmark, Ms. Maya Tsoclis, Traveler & Film-maker, Parliamentarian in the Working Committee on Tourism, Ms. Theresa Cissell, Country Manager, Qatar Airways, Mr. George Vilos, Executive Director of Commercial & Business Development at Fraport Greece, Ms. Marina Papatsoni, Marketing & Business Development Director, TEMES SA, Managing Director at Greka Icons, Ms. Jacoline Vinke, Travel writer, founder of Small Hotels in Greece and Greece planner for Trufflepig Travel, Ms. Barbara Avdis, Chairman, Historic Hotels of Europe, Mr. Tim Ananiadis, General Manager & Managing Director, Hotel Grande Bretagne & King George, Ms. Maria Theofanopoulou, President & CEO, GTP DANAE Travel & Media Group.

Moderated by Ms. Sudha Nair-Iliades, Publisher, Insider Publications.

TRENDS What are the key global trends in tourism to watch out for in 2017?

Ambassador Van Schalkwyk: With regards to world trends, what we clearly see is a new wave of ‘isolationism’ that the tourism industry can’t escape. It started with the US, my own country South Africa has announced stricter visa regulations, as has Australia, and Emirates has just announced that it will cut flights to the US. I believe isolationist policies will be an industry challenge in the short-term at least. Over the longer term they will be offset by new technology, e-visas.

The other trend for 2017 - ‘destination degradation’ – is a huge debate world-wide as our most visited sites’ assets are becoming degraded.

The other trend is clearly disruption – terrorism, health scares, Zika, other threats that might have a major impact - and we cannot always

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predict them but one should always be prepared to deal with them.

With regards to Greece, if you really want to grow a destination you need diversification. I’m always surprised that I don’t see a fantastic conference facility here because conference tourism is something that can really grow a destination like this.

Theresa Cissell: At Qatar Airways, we have seen an influx of millennial travelers from Australasia, who are very cost-conscious. Also through our continuous focus on premium travelers from Arabian Gulf countries and Far East, we see a growing mix of passengers seeking luxury experiences in 5 star hotels, visiting high quality restaurants, popular beaches and major attractions during their stay.

Another growing trend is adventure tourism, they are interested in sea sports, photography and nature trails.

Jacoline Vinke: I do see a trend for better services, especially in the case of Greece. When I became active in this sector in 2000, the services were very basic and I see positive improvementsevery year - in very simple things, like ferry schedules that are now made available well in advance. I also see a trend ofincreasing involvement of local people, local guides, airbnb is also a local service.

Tim Ananiadis: Another trend is that luxury hotels such as the GB are investing in airbnb apartments too. We have around 20 apartments in the neighbourhood. It is a very intelligent way of extending your rooms.

It used to be that airbnb guests just wanted a basic room minus the facilities. Turns out that they now want the services too. So the cost of running an airbnb is a lot more than it used to be 5 years ago, and a good opportunity for hotels such as ours to step in.

Debate

Our challenge is not the quality of products we offer, but the image tourists have of us. We need to invest strategically in improving our mage.

Millennial travelers tend to seek authentic experiences, are into adventure tourism and are fiercely costconscious.

The vision is for Greece to be among the top 5 choices for visitors to Europe, to be a year-round destination and to attract new markets.

Tim Ananiadis

Theresa Cissell

Giorgos Tziallas

General Manager & Managing Director, Hotel Grande Bretagne & King George

Country Manager, Qatar Airways

General Secretary for Tourism Policy and Development

Tudor Hall, Hotel King George

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Mr Tziallas, you are in this amazing position of actually creating policies and defining strategies, what are three priority areas you are focusing on?

George Tziallas: Obviously it’s a privilege to work for an industry that has helped sustain jobs even during the economic crisis. So the top three priorities are: to extend the tourist season, to make Greece a year-round tourist destination and to open new markets – that means direct flights for new markets like India, China, US, Iran. We have started doing that with the Middle Eastern countries and it has been quite a success. Another priority is to have synergies between other economic sectors such as the food and manufacturing sectors and with all the other relevant ministries overseeing visas, the environment, culture, and new investment strategies for tourism development.

Maya Tsocli: The problem has been vision. Ms. Papatsoni works for one of the most visionary projects ever in tourism in Greece (Costa Navarino) and this is what we’ve missed from all the Ministries of Tourism. It’s always been a headcount of arrivals rather than putting any thought into what kind of tourism we want. It was a good idea when the Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Tourism were one, but unfortunately, that changes with every new Government!

However, a positive force is the amount of small entrepreneurship throughout Greece. At the recent tourism awards, we could see the difference in the attitude and mentality born out of the crisis – there were so many small businesses popping up all around Greece. We were also lucky politically these last two years, because our neighbours had problems and we attracted more tourists as a safe, stable destination.

MILLENNIALS What should Greece be doing differently to cater to millennial travelers?

Barbara Avdis: Millennial tourists are re-shaping the tourism industry.

They have a different way of selecting, booking, traveling and experiencing a destination. The main characteristic of the millennial tourists is that they enjoy the travel experience before even travelling and this makes our job more challenging.

Tudor Hall, Hotel King George

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Our business philosophy at Yades Heritage Hotels is to offer an authentic Experience inspired by the History and the Cultural characteristics of our country. Our aim is to transmit is the idea of Greek culture through tourism. We cannot talk about tourism if we cannot talk about culture since the first reason a tourist chooses a destination is because of its culture. Everything else falls into place after. It’s become fashionable to talk about millennials and their needs – but for me, the real challenge for Greece is to mesh the needs of mature luxury travelers from the US and Europe with the affluent, new travelers from Asia and the Middle East.

An interesting characteristic of the Millenials that can be inspiring for the next phase of Greek Tourism is that the millennials have been brought up with the idea that they want to leave an impact in what they are doing. And that involves doing something with the local economy.

I do see a trend of better services and increased involvement of the local community Jacoline Vinke Travel writer, founder of Small Hotels in Greece and Greece planner for Trufflepig Travel

PASSENGER EXPERIENCE Your airports are the first contact for anyone arriving in Greece and the last farewell point. How do you hope to make this a welcoming experience to return to?

George Vilos: As you may already know, Fraport Greece officially commenced operations at the 14 Greek Airports as of April 11th 2017 while, from October onwards the company will be kicking-off a 4-year invest-

Debate

The Tourism Ministry needs to be integrated into the decision making process or else it will not mean much over the longer term.

What we need is to produce creative wonderful products that promote culture and boost tourism.

Marthinus van Schalkwyk

Traveler & Film-maker, Parliamentarian in the Working Committee on Tourism, President of the Tourism Awards Committee 2017

Ambassador of South Africa (Former Minister of Tourism of South Africa)

Maya Tsoclis

ment plan of one hundred million euros for the upgrade, renovation and in most of the cases expansion of the airport premises. Our prime objective is the modernization and expansion of the airports, the 14 gateways to our country that welcome millions of visitors every year from all over the world. In particular, with vehicles the operational excellence of the airports, as well as the customer-centric philosophy and management practice, we aim to operate 14 competitive airports, similar to the best international ones that will further enhance our country’s attractiveness as a tourist destination, offering a seamless and upgraded travelling experience of high quality standards. As an example, taking into account the best practices worldwide, we will substantially enhance the commercial offer at the airports, contributing to the enhancement of the travel experience. Last but not least, through the development and operation of modern and safe airports, we aim to attract new airlines and routes, as well as to increase the incoming tourist flows, contributing this way to the extension of the tourist season and the upgrade and diversification of the tourist product.

SUSTAINABILITY Why should Greece focus on sustainable tourism and add a touch of Green to the Blue?

Ambassador Braad: For Greece, it’s important to focus on sustainable tourism and to develop local products with strong narratives. In Denmark we noticed that the places that had the strongest narratives were more attractive to tourists. There has to be a clear and strong vision of parlaying those stories into one consistent narrative. Greece is uniquely situated to take advantage of this.

For Greece, it’s important to focus on sustainable tourism and to develop products locally and to try to develop strong narratives.

Michael Braad Ambassador of Denmark

Coming from the outside and looking at Greece as a tourist destination you see that there has been a lack of direction. Greece offers so many opportunities - and its biggest assets are its people, its unique beauty and temperate climate. Most Danish tourists are repeat visitors so there is an incredible degree of loyalty. Plus Greece has its unique brand of special hospitality, generosity and wonderful products. So Greece has all this going for it but it needs to make decisions on what its strategy should be, the kind of tourism it wants to attract, and how to go about it without losing what is so special about Greece.

Geographical diversification is also essential as there is still so much of Greece that is unknown.

Maria Theophanopoulou: First we need to define what is sustainable tourism; tourism that respects both the locals and travelers while taking into account its economic, social and environmental impacts.

When you try to involve the local community in everything that has to do with the essence of tourism, you realize what’s missing is the communication of the vision. Sometimes when you are high up in the leadership you have the vision but if you don’t go and communicate that to the local communities, the strategies rarely get implemented. Huge amounts of money have been spent by Greek tourism organizations on strategies and reports that end up on shelves for exactly this reason.

Marina Papatsoni: Sustainability is not a trend any more. It’s a requirement. 70% of the guests demand their hotel to be responsible towards the environment and society. Also guests are suspicious due to green –washed approaches and false claims. They check

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Tourism is about creating experiences that are memorable and sharable.

Marina Papatsoni Marketing & Business Development Director, TEMES, Developers of Costa Navarino & Managing Director at Greka Icons

We cannot separate tourism from the cultural heritage of a destination. Most travellers include at least one cultural activity during their trip.

Barbara Avdis

George Vilos

Chairman, Historic Hotels of Europe

Executive Director of Commercial & Business Development at Fraport

you out in detail. Following sustainable practices derives from the philosophy of the company and its not about what you claim in your brochure but what the guest sees and feels - where you buy your products from, how you promote local culture, how you protect the eco –systems that surround you, what people working in the hotel say about you and your sustainable policies.

Jacoline Vinke: This is where the Government can step in to enable the local community. Instead of obstructing entrepreneurship with too many rules, we need to simplify procedures. For simple things like running a cooking class, there are so many permits that need to be obtained that a lot of aspiring entrepreneurs end up doing it illegally and the Government loses out on tax revenue.

Marina Papatsoni: Creating synergies is key. Unifying a whole region from local restaurants to farmers under a common vision and working together to achieve it, is our bigger accomplishment. The experience of the traveler is the key driver of growth as its sharable. In old times we were sharing experiences with friends and family. The millennials share instantly on real time on social media anything that they think is worthwhile. The experience they share does not define only what they do but who they are. Story telling is the key. To give you an example, guests don’t want to hear the theory of ancient Greek philosophy but they are excited to participate in a philosophical discussion under the olive trees about modern issues – of Plato’s proposition, a thousand years ago, of how it is possible to have incorruptible politicians!

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We shall be investing a lot to align the ‘passenger experience’ at our airports to that of the destinations

PROMOTING GREECE THROUGH PEOPLE AND PRODUCTS Why should Greece cultivate Ambassadors through art, wine & gastronomy?

Ambassador Van Schalkwyk: It is inevitable that if you want to market a country, it will have to be at two levels. At the level of Government, it will be about targets, arrivals, spend and connectivity. For the local communities, it has to be about what is expected of them and understanding the benefits for them in the long run. In terms of marketing the country, using people as ambassadors is vital. Not just well-known Greeks but people who’d like to be associated with Greece. Money can’t buy the ambassadors who are willing to promote a destination absolutely for free.

Maya Tsocli: From my personal experience on Tinos, the creation of a product, beer, totally transformed the quality and the kind of tourism that Tinos attracts today. The brewery generated significant interest and a lot of press and tourism stood to gain. Creative wonderful products promote culture.

MANAGING GREECE’S IMAGE What lessons have we learnt on managing Greece’s image?

Tim Ananidis: Whether it is the crisis, services, infrastructure or safety, Greece’s image is not we think it is. Our challenge is not the quality of products we offer, but the image tourists have of us. We need to invest in improving our image.

Debate

Photos: Kostas Mpekas

You may have the vision but if you don’t communicate the vision right down to the local communities, it is a wasted exercise.

Maria Theofanopoulou President & CEO, GTP | DANAE Travel & Media Group

Acropolis view from the Tudor Hall Terrace

Marina Papatsoni: Its key to have a dedicated team and strategy, that does not change with every government, that works to attract international media coverage, airlines for more direct flights to Greece, film shootings etc.

Ambassador Van Schalkwyk: In South Africa, when we created a destination marketing organisation which was funded by the Government but where the whole board was from the private sector, we made a quantum leap in terms of revenue, spend and arrivals. Governments should leave marketing to the private sector. And that should be the base model for a country to market itself.

Theresa Cissell: It is important to evaluate what interests tourists, it can teach us quite a bit on what needs to be improved or developed. Greece is a popular shopping destination for luxury brands, however, it’s not actively promoted. The travelers are luxury experience seekers, if promoted correctly by combining it with many other top notch services offered by Greece, it can become very popular.

George Vilos: We firmly believe in synergies with all people involved into our country’s tourism product and promotion, as only this way we can achieve optimisation of the available resources in the field of Destination Marketing, ensuring at the same time consistency in the delivered messages. As Fraport Greece, we have already started to work closely with the local authorities aiming at promoting effectively all the 14 destinations that we serve.”

CONCLUDING REMARKS: Barbara Avdis: I would say, what Greek tourism really needs is clear vision and consistent strategy.

George Tziallas: Minister Elena Kountoura has set the vision for our ministry. It is for Greece to be among the top 5 choices for visitors to Europe and to be a 365-days-a-year destination. We want to attract tourism from new markets, to engage them in new adventure activities and to introduce them to our unique gastronomy.

IN NUMBERS:

28 million Number of tourists in 2016 8 Average number of sites visited by millennials 3 Number of Greek booking sites among the top 10 in the world Top 5

Greek tourism ministry’s objective for Greece as a destination in Europe

300 million Ad spend by Booking.com in 2016: 70% Customers who show commitment to sustainable values insider athens | 29

Turandot, Milan 1957

MARIA CALLAS: Mistress of Herself

2017 is the Year of Callas, writes Amanda Dardanis, who takes a look behind the scenes at Athens’ captivating new Maria Callas tribute, and discovers why “La Divina” is still such a potent symbol, even for our troubled times.

F

or every Greek, Maria Callas possesses a double meaning.

Not only was she a consummate artist who reached the pinnacle of her craft. She did so despite the rarity of a Greek attaining such giddy heights in the entrenched world of opera. It was a victory that Callas effected by using her Hellenic claims as a weapon to portray the tragic roles she would dramatically redefine.

Born, Cecilia Sophia Anna Maria Kalogeropoulos in New York City on December 2, 1923, “La Divina” helped to redefine opera in the 20th century in such signature roles as Tosca, Norma and La Traviata. Her 1951 Aida in Mexico where she hit the top E-flat is still hailed as one of the greatest operatic moments of all time.

To Fotis Papathanassiou, curator of Athens’ major new Maria Callas Exhibition – The Myth Lives On - at the Theocharakis Foundation, Callas was the ultimate industry disruptor.

‘The 19th century belonged to Wagner. The 20th was Callas’,’ Mr. Papathanassiou tells Insider.

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‘She had the perfect phrasings and the perfect expressions – and her presence, of course, was a gift from God.’ ‘She was almost a pioneer of an age. She transformed the art of opera absolutely. By giving the “presence” of the role the same importance as the voice, it maybe resulted in some lesser voices emerging, but it also led to better actors in the world of opera.

‘Because after Callas, no woman in opera could continue to do the same thing that they had done before when they played Juliet or Floria (in Tosca).’

2017 is swiftly shaping up as the year of Maria Callas.

September 16 marks the 40th anniversary of the magnificent Greek-American opera diva’s death at the age of 53. Already, the tributes have begun.

A glittering and high-profile exhibition called “Private Callas”, featuring some of Callas’ most striking costumes and personal keepsakes staged in Milan at the beginning of the year - and there’s also a Hollywood biopic due out later this year.

Meanwhile, here in Athens, an unmissable tribute to the most famous

Art & Culture

Greek woman of modern times has just opened its doors last month (May 11), as the Theocharakis Foundation presents more than two hundred of Callas’ personal belongings.

The captivating exhibition features theater costumes from some of her most unforgettable roles, stunning vintage dresses from Biki, the Milanese stylist who fashioned the ‘Callas look’ during the Milan years, furniture, jewelry, handwritten letters, letters by relatives, friends and artists … all creating a narrative that records the life of the tragic and lyrical icon with the celestial voice who went on to become one of the great divas of her time.

The largest number of objects comes from the impressive collection of Nikos Charalambopoulos, a menagerie of great emotional value that the collector managed to gather transecting Callas’ most important years.

From her first major international roles - where Callas, in order to more easily grasp her role, had written on the libretto her Greek translation.

To her favorite golden cross that she had been wearing when she died, and that would have been lost in her funeral pile had it not been removed at the last moment by a relative.

Among other fascinating Callas memorabilia, there are the gloves from Viscount's iconic La Traviata, dresses from her recitals, her first identity card, her passport and her death certificate, her hair piece that she gave to her favorite butler, and her first autograph signed at the age of 15. You can read over her hand-written agenda containing addresses and telephones of all the celebrities associated with her at the time, as well as peruse her albums containing many personal photos and letters from well-known conductors, directors and personalities such as Gray Kelly, the Duchess of Windsor and Laurence Olivier.

To highlight the enduring relevance of Callas as an international icon, Mr. Papathanassiou cites her appearance alongside the likes of John Lennon, Amelia Earhart, Picasso and Bob Dylan on Steve Job’s famously successful “Think Different” poster campaign of the 90s for Apple that did so much to resurrect the ailing brand.

Says Mr. Papathanassiou: ‘Even for someone not inclined towards classical music, like Jobs, Callas was the symbol of excellence and fire. She became master of herself and she created an enduring image.

‘And in these times of crisis, she is also an example for today of how by fighting hard and being resilient, you can reach excellence and thrive in an international scene, coveted by all.’

Despite her mesmerising artistic power, however, much of our endless fascination with Maria Callas inevitably has to do with the fact that her dramatic personal life mirrored the operatic heroines she portrayed on stage.

There was her notoriously fractious relationship with her mother; the indefatigable ambition; the legendary rivalry with Italian soprano Renata Tebaldi. And of course, her stormy decade-long affair with Aristotle Onassis.

Callas embarked on a highly-documented romance with Onassis in 1957, while still married to Giovanni Battista Meneghini. The shipping tycoon abandoned her for Jacqueline Kennedy in 1968, after which a heart-broken Callas fell into an extended professional and personal decline, from which she never truly recovered. (At the exhibition, you can view some of the items Onassis gave her including paintings, furniture, objects from his yacht "Christina” and designer accessories she wore to parties with him like Gucci bags, Bulgari jewelry and hats).

‘First I lost my voice, then I lost my figure, and then I lost Onassis,’ she once memorably said.

But the world will never lose the living myth that is Maria Callas.

info Maria Callas: The Myth Lives On runs until October 29, at B & M THEOCHARAKIS FOUNDATION, Vasillissis Sofias 9 & Merlin 1, tel: 210.361.1206, www.thf.gr

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The Mirror Man Michael Landy was one of the Young British Artists who transformed the international art scene of the 1990s. Now, he has installed himself in Athens to hold up a mirror to the people of Greece. Amanda Dardanis meets the artist most famous for once destroying everything he owned to talk about his creative legacy and why Athens now has the artistic edge over London.

A

member of the infamous “Class of ’88”, Michael Landy graduated from London’s prestigious Goldsmiths in the same sweep as those artistic juggernauts Damien Hirst, Sarah Lucas and Tracey Emin.

While that bawdy trio dominated headlines for much of the Nineties, Landy’s time would come a little later. It wasn’t until 2001, with his epic performance piece, Break Down, where he systematically destroyed every last one of his belongings in London’s Oxford Street to the strains of Joy Division and David Bowie, that things really took off for this creatively-gifted son of an Irish immigrant - hereafter known as “The Man Who Destroyed Everything”. “Everything”, it turned out, was 7,227 items, including precious family heirlooms, love letters, clothes, personal documents like his birth certificate – even his Saab Turbo.

Landy’s unforgettable visual treatise on what many saw as the morality of consumerism ignited our curiosity, our incredulity, and our emotions. A massive media response followed (Landy was profiled in Newsweek, lampooned by Viz, and became the subject of a BBC documentary). So extreme was the public reaction to his social experiment, meanwhile, that he was offered counseling by both psychiatrists and priests.

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Michael Landy at Diplarios School

To many of us, the idea that someone could simply walk away with nothing but the blue boilersuit on his back was deeply unsettling.

It’s now 16 years on, and Michael Landy, when we meet, is back in a blue boilersuit. He’s in Athens for his latest project Breaking News to take our collective temperature. To find out what makes the Greek public tick by asking us to send in slogans, quotes, graffiti or images, which he then transforms into paintings and drawings via his own filter. Through these aphorisms, Landy is hoping to wiretap the voice of the city.

While we talk, we take a tour of the fourth floor of the Diplarios School, an artfully-dilapidated neo-classical building in central Athens. The maze-like nest of empty rooms is slowly coming alive with drawings, big and little; all blue and white (to signify “the sky, the sea, the flag of Greece”), in what’s already shaping up as a rich cultural canvas. I spy messages as varied as “Merkel Go Home” to “I love Feta”. There’s a fierce archangel bearing firearms and former prime minister Charilaos Trikoupis famously declaring, “Regretfully, we are bankrupt."

‘We’ve had lots of “oxis” too,’ observes Landy, who at 53, still possesses a youthful form and vigour, despite the greying temples. “I’m told the Greeks like to say “no”, he deadpans.

Many of Landy’s projects, including this one, concern themselves with our common humanity and are heavily shaped by public collaboration.

In 2010, he turned a South London gallery into a 130,000 gallon scrapheap he called Art Bin where he trashed other people’s artistic failures selected from online submissions. His high-profile Acts of Kindness, meanwhile, celebrated the ordinary acts of generosity and compassion that occur between strangers every day on the London Tube.

His 2013 installation Saints Alive for the British National Gallery also thrust him back into the limelight. While artist in residence at the typically conservative institution, Landy gruesomely transfigured sculptures of Christian saints to depict them eternally re-living their violent trials.

In person, Landy is great company. He’s relaxed, funny and self-deprecating, with none of the tightly-coiled temperament or referential tendencies you might expect of someone with his artistic pedigree. One

Art & Culture

Has Athens creatively inspired you so far?

It has. Apparently, Athens is the new Berlin. I look out of the window (of this studio) and you don’t know whether people are living in the buildings opposite. Are they occupied or unoccupied? In London, every inch of land has been filled with luxury flats and shops and all that wasteland has gone. But as an artist, you need those spaces to put on exhibitions and have studios. There is a real sense of freedom here.

That’s what I really like. That and the great vibe.

Are you getting some interesting submissions?

We’ve had to decline quite a few pictures of cats and scenic views.

That’s not what this is about. But we’re getting some great social and political things. I can either take them literally, or take part of their image and reproduce it. Or I’ll take some of their graffiti text and we’ll pin it up in the school. (I’m having to rely on my assistants to tell me about word play and context because I don’t speak a word of Greek!).

Scrapheap Services, Chisenhale Gallery, London, 1996

senses that it’s the work and the community interaction that propels him far more than the attention.

Tell us what motivated you to stage Breaking News here in Athens?

I’m very interested in what makes us human apart from what we have to offer financially. So I was interested in asking the Greek public to tell me what makes them angry or happy or sad in their everyday lives, rather than hearing from politicians and the media.

Is this your first time in Athens?

No. In 2011, I made a credit card destroying machine for the Frieze Art Fair. About 500 people volunteered to let me destroy their cards.

In return, the machine also made abstract drawings on paper that I would sign. Two years later, I was invited to show the work again down in Piraeus in an old abandoned building. Afterwards, I started to talk to NEON about doing this project.

How would you describe the energy here?

When you arrive in Athens, the energy feels really good, really creative.

London has just become too swanky in a way. And it’s become kind of dull. Once you kick out all the young creative people, which is what’s happened, you end up with some kind of glorified museum. You need young people to come up with new ideas to re-generate a city.

So you believe that London has lost some of its allure for young upand-coming artists?

It’s a shame about London because when I left art school in the late 80s you could still squat. We could find run-down, semi-industrial buildings and spaces to create in; buildings that hadn’t been re-developed yet. Whereas here in Athens, things are peeling everywhere and are quite dilapidated. I’ve started to become fixated on all the peeling paint in Athens! As a child in post-war Britain, I remember picking at the peeling paint you’d still see on buildings, even in the 60s. And that’s what’s so exciting about Athens. Coming here you feel a real vibrancy.

Is it hard to live down a project like Break Down? Do you resent people always returning to it as your great magnus opus?

No, I dealt with that years ago. I know that Break Down is the thing most people want to talk about. Because it’s obviously quite extreme to destroy all your worldly belongings in front of complete strangers!

“

Why do you think people are still so intrigued by that particular social experiment? Perhaps because it forces us to examine our own unhealthy relationships with our possessions?

Reading about it (what I was doing) and witnessing it was a completely different thing. All you could come away with is the actual experience. People nicked stuff.

One bloke tried to take a valuable print of mine to sell but my mate got hold of the other end, and it was like a tug of war. This guy said, “But he doesn’t want it anymore anyway”, which wasn’t the point.

I’m very interested in what makes us human apart from what we have to offer financially.

What did your parents think of it all?

It was hard for my parents. They came to Britain to build a better life for themselves and their children and suddenly they have to see their son destroying all their belongings. But I didn’t destroy my name.

That’s what someone said to me once. I thought that was a really clever thing to say. I didn’t change my name and there’s no denying that I became a better known artist afterwards because of that.

Is it true that you were offered counselling by both priests and psychiatrists while you were in the process of destroying everything?

I was offered help by all sorts of people! But it was actually the hap piest two weeks of my life. I really loved going in every day. We’d play my record collection and we had a resident DJ. There was a sense of

insider athens | 33

“

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, C&A build Down, 2001

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elation. Destroying things, taking things back to how we made them in the first place. It was like witnessing my own death. I had people turning up who I hadn’t seen in years. My mum was crying. So she had to go. I had to throw my own mum out.

What was the hardest thing to part with?

My dad’s sheepskin coat was the hardest thing to destroy. I subsequently made a piece of art about it.

What was your first waking thought the next day?

Well, I was hungover, so I was a bit paranoid. Suddenly you had to create your life over again. I had to go and get another birth certificate, a duplicate passport...

Did people expect you to live like an impoverished saint afterwards?

Yeah. But that’s not what it was about. I’m not a saint and I wasn’t pretending to go and live out the rest of my days on a desert island somewhere. It was a work of art, not a way of life.

Do people ever ask you to re-create Break Down?

Someone asked me only yesterday! But it’s a once in your lifetime gig.

You can’t escape consumerism. It’s inescapable. We judge people by how much they own and possess and we’re jealous of them. But I’ve also done projects on Saint Francis of Assisi where he sees people in rags and he’s kind of envious of their poverty.

Oh yes, your infamous Saints Alive project at the National Gallery.

Did they know what they were getting themselves into?

When they phoned me up about going there, I was destroying things

34 | insider athens

they must be pulling my leg. They said I could look at the collection in the evening by myself. I don’t think they really trusted me. I mean, I’m not going to destroy a Velazquez! So they had a guard following me around with a key in case I got up to no good.

What was your artistic inspiration for Saints Alive?

Well, I don’t paint. So I had to find another way of going about things. I come from an Irish Catholic background so I started to look at saints and Christian iconography. They were a violent lot. Saint Apollonia patron saint of dentists was tortured by having her teeth pulled out. Saint Gerome beat his chest with a rock.

Your Break Down project is especially poignant in Greece where Greeks have, by necessity, had to radically re-imagine themselves and their previous consumption…

People here have had to come to terms with the fact that they’ll never have that kind of wealth again. Except for the younger people. This is just normality for them now. This has been their backdrop for years.

I’ve got about eight young Greeks working for me here and they are all committed to staying here.

HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED The exhibition space at Diplarios School, Platea Theatrou 3, Athens, will open to the public on March 30 and the installation will be completed on June 11, 2017. Afterwards, participants may retrieve their work.

Submit your images in digital format via the NEON website HERE or as hard copy in the exhibition space, on Fridays from 12pm to 7pm.

You can also follow the work in progress on Instagram @breakingnewsathens Open from Thursday-Sunday from 12-8pm.

insider athens | 35

Novotel Athens

THE BIG BLUE As much as we all love hitting the beach, when there’s five months of “summer” to get through (cue the violin!) – sometimes, you’re just more in the mood for a pool. Make use of the democratic open-door policy at many of the city’s leading hotels, which means you can enjoy their luxe swimming facilities for the day, without being an overnight guest. Amanda Dardanis scouts some of the best hotels in Athens to make a splash at this summer: Novotel Athens

A glorious rooftop option for those who like to swim with the Gods.

The newly-renovated boutique-sized pool on the 7th floor of the Novotel Athenes, is 4km from the Acropolis, in downtown Omonoia, and offers stonking views of the famous landmark, along with luxe loungers, free parking and drink on entry. Open during the summer season, the pool café Clair de Lune will also keep you well hydrated and nourished!

Opening hours: 9.00-19.00.

Entry price: €20; and €10 for children (weekdays and weekends); Includes towel, drink and free parking.

Kid-friendly? Yes. Our children are always made to feel welcome here.

Where: Michail Voda 4,Tel: 210.820.0700, www.novotel.com/Athens

Vertigo Pool Club at St George Lycabettus Boutique Hotel

What this chic and elegant rooftop pool terrace lacks in proportions, it more than makes up for with its epic Mount Olympus-worthy views and fashionable ambience. Nestled against the pine-forested slopes of Lycabettus Hill, the St George Lycabettus affords breath-taking panoramic views over Athens to the Acropolis and the Saronic Gulf beyond.

Opening hours: 9.00-20.00.

Entry price: €25 or €40 for 2; €12.50 for children (weekdays); €30 and €15 for children (weekends). Entry fee includes a coffee or soda.

Kid-friendly? Only the most well-behaved little people need apply.

Where: Kleomenous 2, Kolonaki, Tel : 210.741.6000, www.sglycabettus.gr

Vertigo Pool Club , St George Lycabettus Boutique Hotel

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City Escape The Margi

The Margi

With its distinctive green and white striped awnings, The Margi has the air of the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel; and its gorgeous compact pool area, is pure “Californication”. Even more so now, after its recent ravishing makeover. The Margi has created a slinky and sophisticated oasis in the heart of lush Vouliagmeni. There’s stylishly accessorised divan loungers, floating olive trees, and loads of lovely drapey canopies (that you can reserve exclusively for up to 6 people complete with fruit platters and Evian facial spray!) and shady nooks to retreat behind. A perfect spot for a special “ladies day out”, such as a baby shower, birthday or pre-wedding celebration, with great poolside dining and cocktail options.

Opening hours: 9.00-19.00.

Entry price: €30; children €15, cabana €100 for max. 6 people (week days); €45; children €22.50, cabana €150 (weekends).

Kid-friendly? Not terribly. Probably wise to leave them at home.

Where: Litous 11, Vouliagmeni, Tel: 210.892.900, www.themargi.gr.To book a cabana in advance, email restaurantreservations@themargi.gr.

Hilton Athens

The inviting ground-floor swimming pool at the landmark inner-city Hilton has a classic retro-60s feel about it, and has long been a popular urban sanctuary and meeting point for American tourists, corporate types, and Kolonaki locals who go to cool off during the Long Swelter.

Opening hours: 8.00-21.00.

Entry price: €25 (€17 after 6pm); 12.50 for children (weekdays); €45; and €20 for children (weekends).

Kid-friendly? Yes. The pool is big enough to cater for the needs of all age-groups; plus there’s a kid’s pool too.

Where: Vass. Sofias Ave, Athens, Tel: 210.728.1801, www.hiltonathens.gr

Hilton

Divani Caravel

Divani Caravel

See the best of the capital spread out in front of your feet as you refresh yourself from the day’s heated urban wanderings in this friendlysized watering hole that’s another great member of the Athens’ Mile High Club (rooftop pools, that is). There’s a nifty snack bar for drinks, cocktails and snacks too.

Opening hours: Daily 11.00 – 21.00.

Entry price: Mon-Fri € 30, Sat-Sun €40 (including the use of sunbeds and umbrellas).

Kid-friendly? We happily take ours.

Where: Vasileos Alexandrou 2, Athens, Tel: 210.720.7000, www.divanicaravelhotel.com

Divani Apollon Palace

Can’t decide between salt water or chlorine pool? No problem at the Divani Apollon Palace where you have both dreamy options, side by side.

Plus, your day ticket grants you access (via a private tunnel) to the hotel’s lovely private beach. The revamped Kavouri seafront directly across the road also has some terrific waterfront dining choices (such as our favourite Garbi), if you want a change from the Divani’s poolside cafe.

Opening hours: 10.00-19.00.

Entry price: €35; €25 for children (weekdays); €50; €35 children (weekends) Includes entry to private beach.

Kid-friendly? Yes. The pool area is large enough not to feel like you’re intruding on others’ adults-only holiday.

Where: Agiou Nikolaou 10, Vouliagmeni, Tel: 210.891.1100, www.divaniapollonhotel.com

St. George Divani Apollon Palace

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e m n e t l ally E

Greek The challenges of Greece’s Millennium Odyssey have insp Nefelia Papanayiot ired designers like ou to showcase th eir emboldened ta Michail-Alexander le nts on a wider stag Passos talks to e. the unconventiona stunning architectur l designer about he al creations that ar r e giving an industria l kick to wearable art.

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Fashion

Introduce yourself. How was Nefelia born?

My professional background is in Architecture. Having graduated from Mackintosh school of Architecture and Brighton University, my studies in fashion design continued in Akto design school, in Athens. Using the culture of the architect and the experience I gained in advanced design work-construction-supervision, I decided to experiment in both small and small-to-large scale projects Nefelia | Out of fashion was born by the need to put a design effort under real construction in terms that could apply to the human body. The label of Nefelia kickstarted with the production of breakthrough plexiglass jewellery while my latest works focus on design objects that challenge the relationship between functionality and art.

From where do you derive your inspiration?

Nefelia jewellery finds inspiration through the forms of architecture and the shapes that are born through natural phenomena. Geometry, colour and light are the main forces that are put into the design of the jewellery. Throughout the years I realised that my work has a strong Greek element, mostly through the geometrical forms, but lately, I felt the need to focus more on our history, a force that resulted in my latest collections, Topos and Drama.

Are you more intuitive or more analytical when you are designing?

My work is a combination of balance and a more conceptual thinking.

Throughout the years, I find myself slowly driving away from the strict and geometrical forms of architecture. When I realized that my background as an architect was influencing my design work in a restrictive way, it became easier to leave it behind.

The Nefelia jewels are inarguably unconventional. How do you balance creativity with commerce?

This is an issue that every designer faces! I always get advice from people who are experts in the commercial part of the work. We just try to find the right audience for my work, so in other words, the commerce is being driven into the brand and not the other way round.

Which is your favourite museum or art gallery in Athens?

It sounds like a cliché but I love the light in the Acropolis museum, and the view from the café! I also love the atrium in the Benaki museum in Pireos street, where you will find my work too in its beautifully-designed shop.

Who inspires you the most in fashion?

I can’t get over the surrealistic talent of Elsa Schiaperelli. And speaking of contemporary designers, Gareth Pugh and Henrik Visbkov combine art with conceptual fashion. But I always find through pinterest new emerging talent that I get hooked on.

Do you feel there’s a significant interest in young Greek designers at the moment?

In Greece, throughout our history and even mythology, you find individuals fighting against the circumstances. The fact that Greece is going through yet another modern Odyssey has led many artists and creative professionals to express their talent and show the world that we keep on fighting against and have so much to offer artistically.

info Mnisikleous 9A, Plaka | www.nefeliaboutique.com

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Urban Poetry in Motion 40 | insider athens

Deux Hommes, Demitris Alexakis and Gregoris Triantafyllou

Fashion

The avant-garde creations of Greece’s most successful design duo, Deux Hommes, are so much more than mere garments. With their high-voltage tapestry of cultural signifiers and jolting contrasts, their collections wield fierce cinematic power. Because fashion should be emotional, the faces behind Deux Hommes, Demitris Alexakis and Gregoris Triantafyllou, tell Insider’s Michail-Alexander Passos.

When did the Deux Hommes story begin?

We started Deux Hommes in the mid-nineties, during a post-grunge period of club culture and deconstructed minimalism and we tried to infuse these influences with some couture ‘drama’, our love for the European cinema and a retro-futuristic vision that was fueled by our love for anything hi-tech, shiny and sharp! Layering, modern embellishment and high contrast soon became parts of our signature in collections, preferably projected onto faces that could be the modern vision of French Nouvelle Vague cinema heroines.

What fabrics and materials inspire you the most?

Fine menswear fabrics, such as cashmere, sometimes mixed with leather and techno fabrics for daywear. For evening dresses, we use plain couture silks, soft or rigid without shine, transparencies, modern hand-made embroideries, layered brocades and scissored lace in a way that creates 3-dimensional effects, a shadow-and-light play or a kind of strong graphism.

Which piece are you particularly proud of creating? Is there one you consider to be archetypal for the essence of your own brand’s DNA? We are not proud of a specific piece but of designing a whole series of dresses that have evolved through the years! The essence of their making is a soft and almost liquefied construction, a kind of ‘’liquid’’ tailoring that holds its shape without stiffenings and restrictive techniques and enhances the female form with maximum comfort. We have been told that the Deux Hommes dresses are ethereal and corporeal at the same time and we are glad to have achieved this balance.

High contrast has always been our biggest fascination, the faded American dream of Lana Del Rey and the pulsating latin vibes in Frida Kahlo’s paintings

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What is the biggest lesson that you have learned since you started your company?

When we started this adventure we thought that fashion was all about freedom and untamed imagination, but it proved that a welljudged collection is a game of high precision, discipline and working within very restrictive limits.

What is the narrative behind your design concept?

Women usually want to see user-friendly clothing solutions for their lives but our mission is to give them also some light-hearted ‘drama’, a little urban poetry and a dignified version of femminity.

How has living in Greece inspired your collection?

We feel that our Greek origin has provided us with a need for symmetry and balance, a liquidated kind of sculpture around the female body, a sense of structure and at the same time lightness. And above all the principal of what in Greek is called ‘’μέτρο’’ (symmetry, standard) editing and filtering the best of all the ideas that come along the designing process in order to have the most well-judged outcome.

What keeps you going in this demanding industry?

Our biggest initiative besides making a living out of what we love, is to redefine ourselves, to expand our means of expression, renew our vocabulary of what ‘Deux Hommes’ stands for and stay relevant and contemporary design-wise!

What are you fascinated by at the moment and how does it feed into your work?

The Summer 2017 Collection is a celebration of the West Coast youth, anything Latin American and an artful clash of colours, patterns and textures. High contrast has always been our biggest fascination: precision and abstraction, a sportier feeling versus couture volumes, the faded American dream of Lana Del Rey on the one hand and the pulsating latin vibes in Frida Kahlo’s paintings on the other!

What kind of legacy do you aspire to leave in the Greek luxury fashion landscape?

We think that the highest form of flattery for a designer is to be considered not only a good dress-maker but also someone who has invented a ‘universe’ with identifiable ethics and aesthetics and a recognisable, dignified woman in the epicentre.

How have your collections evolved over time?

Fighting predictability and boredom is what keeps us going and, as independent designers, we still have the luxury to create whatever we think feels right and relevant right now. Recently, we have traded photogenic showpieces for more subtle ideas with ‘’cinematic’’ power.

Nostalgia and multi-cultural folklore are still strong influences which we try to distil into something that cannot be described easily but that creates an emotional response for the wearer!

info Deux Hommes Atelier, K. Kanari 18 Kolonaki ,Athens Tel: 210.361.4155, deuxhommes.gr

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Agora

Santorini Style Council Michail-Alexander Passos, of Fashion Assured, advises on what to pack in your suitcase to look the part on one of Greece’s most elegant islands.

Lito-Necklace Diamond Evil Eye

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Santorini style is minimal and chic, just like the architecture of this stunning Cycladic treasure.

Flat sandals are a must. The roads are very steep - even getting to some of the beaches involves a climb up volcanic-rock hills. Don’t go bling.

Think elegant and sophisticated. Drape yourself in a linen caftan paired with the perfect fashion-forward sunglasses while finishing off your perfect day with a dreamy dinner à deux gazing out over the magnificent caldera.

Dreams do come true...

Ancient Kallos Karpathos Linen Dress

180 Degrees Off Shoulder Dress

Sun Of A Beach Kyma Beach Bag

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Antonia Karra Silver Jackie Earrings

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V-Destination White Swimsuit a i-P ak

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My Island Affair

Crete Dreams

From moonlight pilgrimages to sacred monasteries and London-worthy fish tavernas, best-selling author Victoria Hislop shares her best Insider secrets about Crete - the magnetic Greek island that has stolen her heart.

My first visit was in 1980. I was travelling around Europe with a boyfriend and we arrived in Crete in the middle of August. I got on the first bus that we saw in Heraklion – without really knowing whether we were going east or west. It took us east – and I remember staying in a village where there was a sign saying “Rooms” – and we grabbed a room. We stayed for many days, spending all day on the beach, living on watermelons, tomatoes and bread (after six weeks of travel we had almost no money left for anything else). I remember the beauty of the landscape, how the mountains almost came down to the sea, and the wild waves. It was a very hedonistic and simple experience.

Has it changed much since then?

The wonderful thing about Crete is that it is…. Huge. I think of it as a country rather than an island! So yes, more houses and hotels have been built (particularly near Elounda) – but there is so much space, so I never feel Crete will be spoiled. Another very noticeable change has happened in Crete: the arrival of more and more great restaurants with really fantastic food made with fresh and interesting ingredients. I no longer just eat watermelons and tomatoes when I am there.

You have a summer home in Crete, near Aghios Nikalaos, that also serves as a writing retreat. What’s the view like from your window?

It is a seascape – the Mirabello Bay – and from my desk I see this huge sweeping expanse of ocean, with mountains in the background.

For me this is the most beautiful view on earth. And the most wonder-

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“

How – and when - did your deep connection with the island of Crete begin?

ful thing about it is that it is constantly changing – every hour, every day, the colours are different – the sky and sea change from deep blue, sometimes to turquoise, sometimes many shades of grey! In the far distance, I can see some very high mountains that remain snowcapped often until May. I wish I was a painter, but instead I endlessly take photographs to try and capture the many moods of Crete.

Crete makes me profoundly happy, in a way that no other place does.

The Writer’s Life aside, we hear that you’re also very into your active adventures when on Crete?

Crete is a fantastic place for walking in the autumn, winter and spring.

The most famous place of all is the Samaria Gorge in the west. It’s an extraordinary landscape, and to begin walking just after dawn, and to emerge by the sea many hours later is a truly special experience.

There are also many mountain tracks in eastern crete – ancient paths once used by shepherds but still visible for walkers. In August, I have done the pilgrimage that begins from Agios Nikolaos and ends at the Monastery of Faneromeni – it’s a night walk up the mountains and you finish as the sun is rising at the monastery. And, yes, watersports…. In the Gulf of Elounda, conditions are always perfect. For ten years, I have been going to see Petros who is based at the Royal Marmin Hotel. He and his son, Angelos, are both fantastic teachers and have made both my children accomplished wake-boarders. Some

Travel

of the most exhilarating moments of my life have been crossing the wake at high speed on my skis with Petros at the helm.

How would you describe the mood of Crete?

Crete has great energy. It makes me feel very healthy in body and mind. The air is pure, the sea is wonderful, the food is healthy. Crete makes me profoundly happy, in a way that no other place does.

You’ve previously said that the landscape and character of Greece have had a huge impact on your work – and that as a foreigner you notice things that locals may not. Is that still the case after so much time spent here?

Mirabello Bay

Yes, it is still the case and I think it always will be. I am an “insider” but still an “outsider” too, so I believe that I will always retain the same objectivity about Greece. And because I come and go on a continual basis, more or less every month, I can’t help making comparisons (some of them in Greece’s favour, some of them not). I will always be inspired

by Greece and I think this inspiration comes from all the things that surprise me in Greece.

What’s your perfect summer’s day in Crete?

I always get up early – I can’t bear to waste a second of the day in the summer. I usually leave my shutters open so that I am woken when the sun rises – it’s a spectacular sight - at around 5 a.m. in August. But then I fall asleep again for an hour. Then I go to the nearby beach– it’s called Voulisma beach, in Istron. It’s a beautiful stretch of very golden sand. There is a café there that opens early, so I will grab a freddo cappuccino to drink when I get out of the sea. The whole beach gets very busy around 10.30 so I go back home and sit at my desk and write. Lunch is simple – Greek salad. And the evening is usually spent in Agios Nikolaos, meeting friends for dinner. This is my perfect day – it’s not complicated. It’s a perfect day that I can repeat and repeat.

Gulf of Elounda

Where can one go on Crete for an always fabulous dining experience?

There are so many good places in Agios Nikolaos! When I have friends over from London who are real “foodies” or if they have never been to Greece before and think that it’s horiatiki or nothing, I always take them to “Xrisofili’s” in Agios Nikolaos. Panagiotis, the owner, has a real passion for good food and wonderful ingredients. I love the aesthetics of his restaurant (and he changes something every year in terms of décor or design). If he (Panagiotis) opened in London and served his dishes, you would have to book a month in advance.

Agios Nikolaos

Tell us one absolutely unmissable experience for first-time visitors …

To sit watching the sunset with a glass of cold white Cretan wine, with a few olives in a bowl. The simplest things are always the best.

Do you have a favourite special memory or inspired moment on Crete?

Visiting Spinalonga for the first time was a very strong experience and I knew even in the first minute that I arrived there that I had to write about it. It was very compelling and very emotional. And I admit that this visit made a profound change to my life.

Spinalonga

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Travel

Santo Maris Oia

writes a new chapter in Luxury

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very contour of Santorini’s landscape looks as though it has a story to tell. Oia, home to some of the island’s most exclusive hotels, has a brand new luxe addition, far from the crowds: Santo Maris Oia Luxury Suites & Spa. THE HOTEL: Perfect in every detail, right down to the basket of bread in the morning, the infinity pool that spills into the horizon, the attentive and impeccable service.

THE PEDIGREE: With its newest luxury addition, the Metaxas Group of Companies, that has successfully run the Creta Maris Beach Resort for over 40 years, expands into the Cyclades’ most sought-after island.

BESPOKE SERVICES: Neatly tucked away, at the edge of Oia village, the unique and luxurious Santo Maris Oia Luxury Suites & Spa has 42 suites and 2 sprawling villas with their own private pools, designed to cater to every wish of a couple on a romantic getaway. It is a destination unto itself with an accent on privacy and quiet elegance. Every single detail here has a story – from the herb garden to the lava-stained stones, the handcrafted furniture and those wondrous sunsets that bathe the Aegean Sea in a roaming spectrum of gold, orange, magenta and mauve.

Four different swimming pools on the property mean that you’re spoilt for choice. Add to that the possibility of nursing a cocktail while you idle lazily by the pool.

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WHEN IN SANTORINI...

Imbibe a chilled Assyrtiko on a wine tour of the island’s famed vineyards, go horse-riding on Santorini’s rugged terrain, grab a bargain at the chic parade of shops and galleries that run the full length of the marble-paved streets of Oia and Fira, take in the laid-back charm of Oia in the warren of streets just below the village’s cathedral or go on a private tour of the volcano that defines the island.

GOURMET INDULGENCES: If you want to indulge in a gourmet meal, look no further than the in-house restaurant Alios Ilios, loosely translated as “the sun that rises and sets in the sea.” Just the incredible vistas from the veranda here should be reason enough to visit - but its refined cuisine, based on Crete’s rich culinary traditions and Santorini’s famed sun-kissed produce make the experience a truly memorable one.

REVIVE, RESTORE, REPEAT: And just to take pampering to a whole new level, the sprawling 300 sqm spa offers a bespoke menu of detox therapies designed to make you unwind and truly enjoy the moment.

info

Santo Maris Oia Luxury Suites & Spa, Santorini.

Tel: 228.660.0630, suites.oia@santomaris.gr, santomaris.gr

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My Island Affair

Santorini Vows Sophia Velissaridi-Michail cemented her fierce childhood love for Santorini by taking her wedding vows on the Cycladic island of the gods.

Vlychada Beach Millefeuille of vegetables, with halloumi at Theros Wave Bar

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Petros Koublis

Fira Street scene

Vlychada Beach

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Kamini Beach

Oia

My love affair with Santorini began…

Instantly! There is something extraordinary about the atmosphere: a mythical rock floating in the heart of the Aegean. The volcano’s energy filters through your veins. Santorini embraces and hypnotises me – I can spend hours simply staring into the vast unknown – it’s the one place that’s always felt like home.

How many times have you been back since?

I've been going to Santorini since I was a toddler, really. I still get excited at the thought of going!

How has it changed much over the years?

What’s the best way to get there?

Ferryboat. There is nothing more overwhelming then entering the mouth of the caldera and sailing past the volcano. That first sighting of the white structures clinging to the rugged landscape. The winding road up from Athinios Port is a must.

How is Santorini different to other islands?

Spilotica Café in Imerovigli. You have the Kastro in front of you with the backdrop of Thirassia, located in the belly of the caldera, allowing you to view the whole island from corner to corner (Akrotiri to Oia). Jazz or soft classic music is usually playing in the background. Order a cocktail or glass of local wine, ease into the comfy sofas and just drift…

Your favourite beach or swimming spot?

Santorini embraces and hypnotises me – I can spend hours simply staring into the vast unknown – it’s the one place that’s always felt like home.

There’s nothing else remotely resembling this magical geological marvel anywhere. It's the perfect culmination of history, archaeology, gastronomy, wineries, breweries, tradition, intriguing architecture, topped with a live volcano and fabulous views all packed into this tiny exquisite piece of land! The energy of the volcano feeds into your senses. To me, the island’s alive.

Your favourite time of year to go?

September. The weather is excellent, not as hot and windy. The island starts getting a little green again with the local fauna blooming – like the “krinakia” that are so delicate, filling the air with the most sensational scent.

How should the perfect Santorini day start?

Best spot for a sunset cocktail?

Theros Wave Bar in Vlyhada. Staggering rock formations and a sandy road lead up to an old fortress. The eroded yellow stone backdrop makes a mesmerising contrast to the black sands.

Where should we go for an always fabulous dining experience?

“

Before it attained its current international status, Santorini was rather eclectic and associated with people of the arts; or simply people yearning for discovery. There were houses back then and not hotels, the beaches were barren and not organized, and we still referred to our locations as villages not towns! Now mass tourism has taken charge and things have become very commercial. But that hasn't changed the nostalgia and sentiment I feel towards this extraordinary place.

more spectacular from every angle. At Oia, reward yourself with breakfast or morning tea at a stunning little cliffside cafe called Melenio.

Then, make your way down to Ammoudi to cool off in the clear fresh waters and enjoy a late lunch at one of the fish tavernas down there.

Wake up early, put on your swim suit, t-shirt and shorts, pack a light backpack and start the hike from Fira or Imerovigli to Oia, walking along the caldera which will change optically as you move along, making it

A little place called “Fratzescos Fish Tavern” in Perissa right on the beach. The restaurant is a family affair and has the freshest fish ever – it’s literally still flapping as you walk up to select your choice!

Tell us one absolutely unmissable experience for first-time visitors …

A catamaran cruise in the caldera. Floating alongside the volcano and swimming in the hot springs as you glide alongside the rugged landscape sipping local wine in swimwear is utter bliss!

If your island was a celebrity, who would it be?

Greta Garbo – beautiful, unconventionally commercial and mysterious. “she just wants to be left alone” but people can’t get enough of her.

Do you have a favourite special memory or moment on Santorini?

Apart from my childhood “wonder years “ there, I'd have to say my wedding. Perfectly timed with the sunset on the 18th of September 2010, I exchanged my vowels at Anastasi Church in Imerovigli led by a traditional quartet of violins as I walked along the caldera, with my family and friends following. Our reception took place in Pyrgos, the highest point of the island with a backdrop of lights sparkling from the surrounding towns. Music, family, friends, fabulous food and the two loves of my life (my husband and Santorini). What more can one ask for?

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p ra Fro m G

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to

G la

The new breed of experience-chasing tourist is no longer content just to sit back and worship the sunset while imbibing on the prized wines made from this sun-drenched rocky marvel. They want to gain first-hand knowledge of Santorini’s unique grape varieties, while at it. Boutari, Santorini’s most celebrated wine label, lets you follow the island’s fascinating wine route from grape to glass, from mythology to today…

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Travel

Boutari’s Megalochori Winery in Santorini

THE PIONEERS: Long before wine tourism was a thing, the Boutaris were prescient enough to open the doors of their Megalochori Winery to the public, heralding a new way of thinking about the island’s untapped tourism potential. Since then, Boutari has played a pivotal role in the development of Santorini’s viticulture and the promotion of its high-quality wines all across the globe. Santorini’s indigenous assyrtiko, with its mineral terroir, seamlessly textured and loaded with promise is today on every worthy sommelier’s list – in no small measure thanks to the Boutari’s persevering efforts.

THE EXPERIENCE:

The hospitality area of the winery Santorini’s famed kouloura vineyards

Voted “Winery of the Year” 17 times by influential American journal Wine & Spirit, the 60-80 minute guided tours of the winery and estate, give you the chance to taste indigenous flavors and to understand the poetry of coaxing a fickle variety like the assyrtiko into yielding a crisp, delicate wine.

Learn everything about the ancient terroirs of Santorini, the special varieties of grapes that thrive in this austere micro-climate – and of course, taste for yourself the acclaimed wines of Boutari Santorini, made exclusively from the native grape varieties (the famous multi-dynamic Asyrtiko that occupies about 80 percent of the vineyard, the Aidani, Athiri and the red Aegean, Mandilarias).

Unlock too, the secrets of the internationally-renowned sweet Vinsanto wine!

YOUR SANTORINI SOUVENIR: Then take home one of your favourite varieties and viniculture mementoes at the chic wine boutique that stocks limited editions and best-selling Boutari wines from other Greek wine-producing regions where Boutari has been operating since 1879.

WHEN TO VISIT: From April through to October, the Megalochori winery is open from Monday to Sunday from 10 am to 7pm. The winery hosts tours every two hours – and tastings in its atmospheric bar every 30 minutes (so there’s no need for reservations!). If you happen to be in Santorini in the winter, you can still visit the winery by appointment.

BOOK NOW:

Arrange your Boutari Santorini Megalochori Winery Experience by phone: 228.608.1011 or 228.608.1607 or by email: santorini.winery@boutari.gr.

For more details, visit www.boutari.gr

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For us, one of the happiest heralds of summer is when “the city above the city” comes alive. By this, we mean when the capital’s instagram-tastic fraternity of rooftop bars and restaurants open their doors for the season, luring us with the pledge of countless balmy nights under the stars with friends and lovers, drinking in all that’s epic about The Greek Life. Insider shares the one Athens rooftop bar destination that you really need to get friendly with this summer. Stin ygeia mas!

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ne of our very favourite places to salute the advent of summer is Point α Bar & Restaurant at the Herodion Hotel. Still something of an “insiders secret”, there is something extremely special about this relatively-new rooftop den that keeps us hooked.

We put it down to the effortless aesthetic, its wonderfully arty take on food, the intoxicating view and all the clever little touches, such as the coasters and napkins which have the numbers 289 and 85 marked on them like some secret code to remind us of the distance (in metres!) from the Acropolis and the museum respectively. It’s exactly this kind of fun trivia that transforms itself as a clever marketing strategy as well as a brand identity for Point α because here, you won’t need to crane your neck to see a blurred silhouette of the famous temple – the Acropolis is smack in front of your face!

While the setting is magical, it’s the design elements at Point α that score top marks for us. A stylish terrace with a wooden deck, subtle

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City Life

Where Athens’ Aesthetes go to Drink…

lighting and a casually elegant atmosphere, Point α is pitch perfect locale for a drink to watch the sun loom over the temple before it turns into a fiery red ball or for a quiet moonlit dinner. For art aficionados, the bar also serves as a gallery showcasing some of Greece’s most talented artists and sculptors, scouted from the neighbouring galleries.

For those who’d rather nurse their drinks as veteran barflies, watching Alexandros Previstas, the award-winning bartender play alchemist, the high bar-stools are the perfect perch from which to observe his sublime skills as he anchors a delicately-seared tapas onto a chilled Greek-inspired cocktail.

If you’d like to linger a little longer to savour chefs Manolis Mavrigiannakis and Marios Pirpiridis’s inventive summer menu, we’d highly recommend the ravioli with octopus ragout, the turnip noodles with white “taramas” and botargo tea, or the croaker fish with courgette flowers.

For meat-lovers, try the Kid (goat) with green beans and myzithra cheese and ‘capricó’ pork served with lemon marmalade. A wateringhole that offers so much more, Point α is a great excuse to play tourist for an evening to re-discover the city and to indulge in some serious story-telling!

info

Find Point α on the 5th floor, Hotel Herodion, 4 Rovertou Galli Street, Acropolis.

Operating daily from 7pm to midnight until October.

For reservations: 210.923.6832.

Images by John Spathas

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Ambassador Nishibayashi and Kikuko Nishibayashi wearing an heirloom kimono and obi.

Kikuko Nishibayashi, president of LAASA (Lady Ambassadors and Ambassador’s Spouses) and hostess with the mostest, spends an afternoon exchanging recipes and intriguing Japanese traditions with Cristina Butler.

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Itadakimasu!

ood is very serious business in Japan. The thought that goes into the preparation, consumption, and plating of Japanese food, takes it to the level of an art or a religion. Little wonder then that traditional Japanese cuisine, or washoku, is now part of the UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list.

For Kikuko Nishibayashi, as the Japanese Ambassador’s wife in Athens, entertaining is second nature. An acclaimed pianist who accompanies her husband on the violin, she is particularly fond of the Mani and loves to travel. Her postings have taken her the world over and her cuisine, while rooted in the Japanese principles of balance and harmony, reflect her itinerant influences.

When guests are expected, Kikuko likes to compose a contemporary Ikebana flower arrangement before setting the table. Ikebana, a beautiful and timeless Japanese floral art, is much more than simply putting flowers in a container. It is a disciplined art form in which the arrangement is considered a living thing, steeped in the philosophy of bringing nature and humanity closer together.

Finally, Kikuko shares one of her favourite Japanese recipes that rarely fails to delight those who are invited to her table with its elegant simplicity.

Now all that remains is to bid your guests, “Itadakimasu!” (it’s how to say “kali orexi” in Japanese!).

SIMMERED FISH Fish (Sea bream, Sea bass, or any white fish): 4 fillets, 80gr each Green Onion: one small bunch, cut into 3-4 cm Water: 400ml Sake: 100ml Soy Sauce:60 ml Sugar: 3tbsp Sliced ginger: 10g Combine all the liquid, sugar, and ginger in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, add fish fillets, and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, covered and over medium heat, adding green onions in the middle of simmering. Pour the liquid several times over fish during a simmer, but never turn it over. When liquid becomes half and fish is cooked dark, it is done.

A note on Sake

Sake (Japanese rice wine made by fermenting rice) best accompanies Japanese cuisine. Now, a new interesting variant, sparkling sake, is the big trend among the ladies and the younger generation – as are Japanese wines, with varieties such as Chardonnay and Merlot, alongside local varieties such as Koshu, an aged sake.

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Photos: Spiros Anastassatos

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Gastronomy

Say Cheese to Kostarelos

Kolonaki Kostarelos Greek Delicatessen is a high temple to all things dairy – but above all else, glorious Greek cheese. Taste irresistible recipes in Kostarelos’ cosy and charming space, then fill your basket with fine traditional products from all over Greece. The centerpiece is a braided wall of vintage feta barrels – a reminder of the family’s rich cheese-making history. Bid goodbye to bland ham and cheese toasties with exciting lunch options such as roasted mushrooms and bacon with mayonnaise truffle; salads like arugula, cherry tomatoes, oil nuts, katiki and vinaigrette molasses; light and airy desserts (ideally accompanied with a fine Greek wine or rare micro-brewed beer!). Don’t leave without trying the outstanding twelve-month feta - matured to perfection.We also suggest to try their delicious breakfast with exellent greek products.

Kostarelos is open Monday to Saturday, from 8am-10pm.

Find them at Patriarchou Ioakeim 30-32, Kolonaki, Tel: 210.725.9000, www.kostarelos.gr

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Top of the Pops

Long a hangout for the young and restless in Exarchia, Warehouse launches its cooler, more upscale version in Plaka with an accent on sparkling wines. So if you can’t tell the difference between a Cava and a Prosecco, Warehouse CO2 would be a great place to start

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he world might be waging a battle to reduce carbon dioxide, but at Warehouse’s new all day nook, it is an integral part of its identity. The much-maligned carbon dioxide is what makes sparkling wines sparkle! It is, apparently, the different carbonation levels that determine the different kind of bubblies we’ve come to enjoy.

While champagne might spell swank luxury and a midnight coupe on New Year’s Eve is champagne’s shining moment, sparkling wines can deliver as much fizz and bring levity and refreshment to more mundane occasions, like toasting the end of a bad day at the office!

More than most spirits, sparkling wines have always generated a bubbly debate. Champagne-only drinkers have always snubbed other sparklers as lesser cousins, there have been heated opinions about how to serve it, and contentious arguments that the cork must be eased from the bottle not with a pop but with a ladylike sigh.

Launched in April this year, Warehouse CO2 offers sparkling and semisparkling wines from Greece by the glass as well as by the bottle as well as Prosecco, Moscato d’Asti and Franciacorta from Italy, Cava from Spain, champagne from France, but also bubblies from England and Tasmania! If bubbles aren’t your thing, you can indulge in an impressive choice of some fabulous vintage, magnum and acclaimed ‘still’ wines. And if wines aren’t your thing either, Warehouse CO2 is democratic enough to also offer a rather exhaustive list of indigeneous Greek beers, distillates, aperitivo cocktails and premium Greek spirits.

If all that talk of wine makes you peckish, Chef Vassilis Geogleris’ creative menu doesn’t disappoint. Warehouse also doubles up as a deli so you can take home what you fancy. With a choice of cheese that ranges from pecorino with flecks of truffle to brie, Warehouse’s menu has an eclectic range of light, gourmet sandwiches, cold cuts, salads and even, oysters to choose from.

A great pit-stop after taking in the sights in Plaka, the atmosphere at Warehouse CO2 is one of casual conviviality. We had an animated discussion with the bartender on shandies and spritzers, discussed the current state of world politics (as one tends to when perched on a bar stool) and went home happy to have discovered this tiny little space that oozes so much personality. Can’t decide if it borders between bubbly or sparkling.

info Ypereidou 1, Tel: 210.324.7048, Opening hours: 10 am to midnight.

Find Warehouse on facebook, instagram and on warehouseproject.gr

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Gastronomy

Sin for your supper F

or brothers Vangelis and Vassilis Sotiropoulos, the roadblocks in seeing their dream project through – a gourmet gastro-pub housed in a beautiful neo-classical building – were many. But they persevered, through capital controls, (the restaurant opened in August 2015) navigating through mountains of paperwork to get all the requisite licences to operate 7 Food Sins in an heirloom house in the Plaka district.

Housed in a handsome two-storey building that spills onto the charming Filomousou Etairias square, the team at 7 Food Sins believe that taste plays a primal role in memories and emotions. Why Food Sins?

Apparently there are commandments for how one should partake of food too and the 7 sins one could be guilty of include being gluttonous, to envy the food of one’s neighbor, eat savagely with bare hands, to spoonfeed someone, to let powerful flavours get the better of you and to stuff your mouth too much!

An invitation to walk into 7 Food Sins is clearly a lure to a different kind of purgatory and the only punishment is the promise of sinfully good,

finger-licking food. Internationally-acclaimed chef Tassos Stefatos is the creative spirit and inspiration behind 7 Food Sins’ innovative menu while it is the young and talented Vassilis Fotos who helms the kitchen to fulfill all your guilty cravings. So if your idea of street food is greasy hamburgers, limp hot dogs and vromiko, you’ve obviously never encountered the purist team at 7 Food Sins.

The fish at the restaurant are supplied daily by a trusted fisherman in Rafina and Fotos builds their recipes around the catch of the day.

The menu here boasts of organic, free-range, oak-smoked iberico pork souvlaki with a home-made ketchup chilli sauce, a sculptural, ink-black fish and chips with a perfect crust and a buttery soft centre, a trilogy of burgers, and a clever twist on that Greek staple – crunchy moussaka.

The Greek on Grill is a deconstructed, barbecued version of the regular horiatiki salad, while the Souvlaki Inside-Out is the concept of a wrap turned on its head with the filling serving as the cover!

In keeping with its ‘pubby’ character, the rooms of the restaurant are named after different kinds of beer: Lager, Stout, Trappist, Pils, Weiss, Lambic and Ale! Each of the rooms have a private, cozy character that you can book exclusively for a group of friends. 7 Food Sins serve 8 different draft beers, an extensive list of beers from the world over, and an exhaustive wine list from Greek and international vineyards.

Are you ready to commit at least one food sin?

info 7 Food Sins | Gastro Pub Filomousou Etairias Sq. 1, Plaka Tel: 210.701.1108, www.7foodsins.com

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Mahboubeh Tavakoli, Iran

Let Food Unite Us T o coincide with World Refugee Day on June 20, Athens Insider will stage an innovative culinary encounter, in partnership with UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees) and the French organisation Home Sweet Food, that will match refugee chefs in Greece with five kindred restaurants around the capital.

In the first European edition of the Refugee Food Festival, restaurants from all over Europe will open their kitchens to refugee chefs between June 18-22.

Athens – a city at the centre-stage of refugee awareness - will participate alongside Paris, Marseille, Bordeaux, Lyone, Lille, Madrid, Florence, Rome, Milan, Bari, Brussels and Amsterdam in this humanitarian initiative that uses the universal power of food to change how we see refugees.

THE CONCEPT: The idea is simple: during the festival, the regular menus of our partner restaurants will be enriched with dishes created by our refugee chefs for patrons to enjoy.

5 CHEFS, 5 RESTAURANTS, 5 DAYS, 5 DIFFERENT CUISINES June 18: Mahboubek, Iranian cuisine at Yi, Glyfada. Tel: 210.964.8512 June 19: Prshnk Has Younis, Kurdish cuisine at Seychelles, Metaxourgeio. Tel: 211.183.4789 June 20: Hassan Hassan, Somalian cuisine at Vassilenas, Ilissia.

Tel: 210.721.0501 June 21: Abdul Al Hallak, Syrian cuisine at 7 Food Sins, Plaka, Tel: 210.701.1108 June 22: Reza Golami, Afghani cuisine at IT, Kolonaki.

Tel: 210.3635.773

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Hassan Hassan, Somalia

CHANGE Perception EAT WELL Differently!

ACCELERATE Professional integration

Prshnk Has Younis, Syria

BOOK: NOW! Call the restaurant directly for reservations or book through the Refugee Food Festival website at: www.refugeefoodfestival.com

Abdul Al Hallak, Syria

Reza Golami, Afghanistan

Insider guide restaurant index by type

refer to corresponding area for more information and contact details

AMERICAN

TGI FRIDAY’S The Burger Joint The Burger Joint

Kolonaki Glyfada Psychico

BAR - RESTAURANTS

21 Restaurant Kifissia 360 Cocktail Bar Monistiraki 42 bar Syntagma 48 Urban Garden Mavili Sq 9 Syntagma A for Athens Monistiraki Abariza Syntagma Abaroriza Pangrati Acropolis Museum Restaurant Acropolis Apsendi Halandri BABA AU RUM Syntagma BACARO Omonia BALTHAZAR Mavili Sq BARAONDA Mavili Sq Barley Cargo Syntagma Beer Time Psyrri Bios Gazi BLACK DUCK Syntagma Booze Cooperativa Psyrri Café Zoe Syngrou CASH Kifissia CINCO Kolonaki Couleur Locale Monistiraki CV Bar Keramikos Drunk Sinatra Syntagma En Plo Vouliagmeni Explorer’s Lounge Syntagma Gazarte Gazi HIDE & SEEK Halandri HOLY SPIRIT Glyfada Hoxton Bar Gazi ISLAND Vouliagmeni KITCHEN BAR Faliro MoMix Gazi NIXON Kerameikos NoËl Plaka OSTERMAN Syntagma PARKO ELEFTHERIAS Mavili Sq PIXI Gazi SEMIRAMIS RESTAURANT Kifissia SHOWROOM Kolonaki Socialista Gazi Sofa Bar Vouliagmeni Spollati Monastiraki Step by step Halandri Stinking Bishops Kolonaki The Clumsies Plaka THE GIN JOINT Syntagma Throubi Plaka Toy Café Plaka Underdog Thiseio

BEER RESTAURANTS

Silly Wizards

Ag. Paraskevi

CHINESE

China’s Fantasy Psychico Golden Phoenix Kifissia Keep Woking Glyfada NAMA Ag. Paraskevi Noodle Bar Syntagma NUI Kifissia Saipan Halandri Wagamama Maroussi

FISH

Ai Nikolas CAPTAIN JOHN’S

Syngrou Piraeus

DOURAMpEIS Piraeus Dourampeis Oyster Psychiko Fish Co. Platters Psychico ITHAKI Vouliagmeni KOLLIAS Piraeus JIMMY AND THE FISH Piraeus KASTELORIZO Kifissia MILOS Hilton MYTHOS OF THE SEA Vouliagmeni Nikolas tis schinousas Glyfada Nisson Gi Ag. Paraskevi Ocean Basket Glyfada PAPADAKIS Kolonaki Papaioannou Pireaus Piperia Psychico RAFALE Vouliagmeni Sardelaki Glyfada THALATTA Gazi ZEFYROS Piraeus Trata Omonia TRATA O STELIOS Pangrati VASSILENAS Hilton

FRENCH

ARTISANAL Kifissia avenue Syngrou Blue Pine Kifissia Gaspar Food and Mood Psychico L’ABREUVOIR Kolonaki MONO WINE RESTAURANT Plaka SPIROS & VASILIS Kolonaki SPONDI Pangrati Tartare Glyfada

GOURMET

ALERIA Kerameikos Aneton Maroussi AVENUE Syngrou Bo Botrini’s Halandri CTC Hilton Fuga Mavili Sq Funky Gourmet Kerameikos WHYTRA Syngrou KOOL LIFE Kifissia KUZINA Thissio MODERN Acropolis Museum of Greek Gastronomy Psyrri Orizontes Lycavyttou Kolonaki Pasaji Syntagma Polly Maggoo Metaxurgeio PremiEre Syngrou VAROULKO Piraeus

GREEK

1920 Piraeus 2 MAZI Plaka 310 Street Psychico 7 food sins Plaka ANETON Maroussi Archeon Gefsis Metaxurgeio ATHIRI Kerameikos ATRIUM Acropolis Berdema Kifissia Bluefield Burger Psychico Dioskouroi Psychico DIPORTO Psyrri ELAIαS GI Kifissia Feedέλ Urban GASTRONOMY Syntagma IDEAL Omonia KAVOURAS Exarhia Krithamos Psychico

MANI MANI MELILOTOS OLIVE GARDEN Pallas Athena PSOMI & ALATI RAKOKAZANO PROSOPA Rena tis Ftelias Seychelles THIO TRAGI TO KOUTI YANTES YDRIA

Acropolis Monastiraki Monastiraki Monastiraki Halandri Halandri Gazi Psychico Kerameikos Petralona Monastiraki Exarhia Plaka

GRILL

1920 Halandri Telemachos Bbq Club Kifissia steak-i Ag.Paraskevi

INDIAN

Indian CHEF Indian HAVELI Indian Kitchen Indian Masala Indi-GO JAIPUR PALACE KOHENOOR

Syngrou Syngrou Syntagma Thissio Glyfada Kifissia Gazi

INTERNATIONAL

All Senses GASTRONOMY Glyfada BAKU Vouliagmeni BUBA Kifissia CHEFI’S Halandri Cosa Nostra Monastiraki Food Mafia Glyfada Gefsis Me Onomasia Proelefsis Kifissia La Pierrade Kolonaki Los loros Syntagma Nikkei Kolonaki nolan Syntagma Pere Ubu Glyfada THE BIG KAHUNA Gazi

ITALIAN

30 SOMETHING Halandri AGLIO OLIO Acropolis AL BACIO Vouliagmeni Albion Psychico Al Dente Glyfada AL FRESCO Vouliagmeni Aperitivo Glyfada BALLARO Voula Capanna Kolonaki Codice Blu Kolonaki DA BRUNO Faliro DA VINCI Ag. Paraskevi Dal Professore Maroussi DULCIS IN FUNDO Voula Il Salotto Glyfada Il Salumaio D’ATENE Kifissia LA CASA DI GIORGINO Glyfada Malconi’s Kolonaki MARGHERITA Kifissia Nanninela Ag. Paraskevi nomi Glyfada Ombra Psychico Pausa Maroussi Sale Bianco da Salvotoro Glyfada SALE E PEPE Kolonaki SCALA VINOTECA Kolonaki TONY BONANO Piraeus

Tutti a tavola Tuttitalia VEZENE Vespa Rosa VINCENZO

Kolonaki Kolonaki Hilton Pangrati Glyfada

JAPANESE

Hama Glyfada INBI Kolonaki KIKU Kolonaki Koi Syntagma Koi Voula MATSUHISA ATHENS Vouliagmeni OOZORA Kifissia RAKKAN Kifissia SUBA Kifissia SUSHIMOU Syntagma Tomoe Kifissia Yoko Sushi & Bento Kolonaki

KOREAN

Dosirak

Syntagma

KOSHER

Gostijo

Psyrri

LEBANESE

FALAFELLAS NARGILE SUZANNA

Psyrri Kifissia Faliro

MEDITERRANEAN

BYZANTINO Hilton CAFE AVISSINIA Monastiraki Common Secret Kifissia DAPHNE’S RESTAURANT Plaka FATSIO Pangrati GB CORNER Syntagma HYTRA Plaka IDEAL RESTAURANT Omonia KOUZINA CINE-PSIRRI Psyrri MALABAR Vouliagmeni MAVRO PROVATO Pangrati Mimaya Glyfada OCHRE & BROWN Psyrri PARLIAMENT Syntagma P.S. PECORA Psychico RATKA Kolonaki STOU MEIDANI Monastiraki THE DALLIANCE HOUSE Kifissia TO KOUTI Monastiraki TORTUGA Pangrati TRAPEZARIA Pangrati VOSPOROS Piraeus ZORBAS Piraeus AMIGOS Glyfada DOS HERMANOS Kifissia EL TACO BUENO Halandri GREXICO MEXICAN STREET FOOD Monastiraki Taqueria Maya Syntagma

MEZEDES AND OUZO

MULTI ETHNIC

Altamira

Psychico Omonia Kolonaki Thissio Kolonaki Plaka Kolonaki

Marousi Kifissia Plaka

PERSIAN

ANAHITA

Halandri

PUB RESTAURANTS

KEG ‘N’ CREW MOLLY MALONE’S THE JAMES JOYCE

Piraeus Glyfada Thissio

ROOFTOP DINING

ELECTRA Plaka IOANNIS Syntagma LE GRAND BALCON Kolonaki ORIZONTES LYKAVYTTOU Kolonaki ST’ASTRA Mavili Sq

SOUVLAKIA AND KEBAB

BAIRAKTARIS Monastiraki BUTCHER’S SHOP Gazi Gourounakia Kifissias Kifissia KALAMAKI KOLONAKI Kolonaki SAVVAS Monastiraki Souvlaki Bar Thissio THANASSIS Monastiraki

SCANDINAVIAN

SAFKA

Kerameikos

SPANISH

JAMON PINTXOS BAR Glyfada LA GABINOTECA Kifissia SALERO Exarhia

TAVERNAS

FILIpPOU Kolonaki Gaidaros Ag. Paraskevi IPIROS TAVERN Psyrri Kolovos Ag. Paraskevi O Tzitzikas Ki O Mermigas Kifissia, Syntagma VLASSIS Hilton

THAI

ANDAMAN BLUE BAMBOO ROUAN THAI ROYAL THAI TAMARIND

Petralona Petralona Piraeus Kifissia Metaxourgeio

TURKISH

Mutfak

VEGETARIAN

MEXICAN

Antaios ATHINAIKON CINCO KIRKI OUZADIKO SCHOLARHEIO

Altamira BUBA LA PANTERA NEGRA

Avocado MAMMA TIERRA NICE N EASY TO VAZAKI yi

WINE BARS

By The Glass FABRICA DE VINO HETEROCLITO Kiki’s de Grece OINOSCENT Vinifera Vrettos Whispers of wine VINARTE warehouse warehouse co2

Glyfada Syntagma Omonia Kolonaki Halandri Glyfada Syntagma Exarhia Syntagma Syntagma Syntagma Kifissia Plaka Maroussi Glyfada Exarhia Plaka

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Aglio Olio & Peperonicino Porinou 13, Tel: 210.921.1801 Authentic Italian pasta in a cozy setting, accompanied by luscious salads and homemade dolci

Atrium

Rovertou Galli 4, Tel: 210.923.6832 Refined Greek cuisine in a cosy setting

Indian Chef

Athanasiou Diakou 22, Tel: 210.923.3585

Indian Haveli Syngrou Ave. 12, Tel: 210.924.4522

Mani Mani

Falirou 10, Tel: 210.921.8180 Peloponnesian specialities with Mediterranean touches

SENSE Fine Dining Restaurant

EAT Chez Violette

Kallidromiou 69, Tel: 210.384.5974

Fabrica de Vino

Em. Benaki 3, Tel: 210.321.4148, 85 wine etiquettes and mini mezzes in an industrial environment

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

Ginger Ale

Themistokleous 74, Tel: 210.330.1246 Enjoy a cocktail or a coffee in a retro pop atmosphere

Accla Athens Was Hotel imed Ch Vox Dionysiou Arepagaitou 5, Th odoris ef Arahovis 56 & Themistokleous Tel: 210.920.0240 Papa nikolao 210.383.5811 One of the oldest u at t Tel: he summer cinemas in Athens is a picturhelm esque place for a retro-tinged drink Gaidaros

Ellinoservikis Filias 52, Tel: 210.600.4724 A hidden courtyard with home-cooked cuisine

Kolovos

Peloponessou 75, Tel: 210.651.0989 Several reasons to visit, but its succulent spare ribs top the list

Silly Wizards

Peloponessou 79, Tel: 210.654.3908 Great selection of beers and Mexican finger food

Da Vinci

Ag. Ioannou 23, Tel: 210.600.0102 Delightful dishes in fantastic ambience

Nama

Kyprou 50, Tel: 210.600.8936 Asian fusion cuisine with 20€ sushi buffet on Mon-Tue and 15€ Chinese buffet on Wed-Thu

Nanninela

Peloponnissou 13, Tel: 210.600.5622 Authentic Italian cuisine in traditional decor

Νisson Gi

Mesogeion Ave. 356, Tel: 210.651.1354 Island flavours with an urban twist

62 | insider athens

Warehouse

Mavromihali 41Tel: 215.540.8002

EAT

Faliro

Ag.Paraskevi

EAT

Sense Fine Dining Restaurant

Salero

Bouillabaisse

The Big Kahuna

Salaminos 42, Tel: 210.524.4100 Exotic street food

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

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

Zisimopoulou 28, Tel: 210.942 5203

DRINK

Da Bruno

Bars, Clubs & Lounges

Ag. Alexandrou 46, Tel: 210.981.8959 Rich list with Italian flavours

DruiD Afroditis 57, Tel: 210.984.8151

Il Tinello

Knossou 54, Tel: 210.982.8462 Real Italian home cookin

Kitchen Bar

Poseidonos 3, Tel: 210.981.2004 Comfort food overlooking the sea

Suzanna

Orpheus & Chariton 5, Tel: 210.942.8129 Authentic Middle Eastern cuisine

DRINK Zinc

EAT

“Flisvos” Marina, Tel: 210.985.3183 Cocktails whith music

PIXI

Evmolpidon 11, Tel: 210.342.3751 Get in to the groove

Plastiko

Sofroniou 12A, Tel: 210.341.0308 Excellent cocktails, reasonable prices, summer mood

Socialista Triptolemou 33, Tel: 210.347.4733 Mainstream bar-club in industrial setting

Tapas Bar

Triptolemou 44, Tel: 210.347.1844 Cocktails and tapas at the bar, just like in Spain

EAT

Glyfada

Dionysiou Arepagaitou 15, Tel: 210.900.0915, Authentic Greek dishes right across from the Acropolis itself

Korai Sq 5Tel: 213.037.0700 Strictly for carnivores!

Gazi

Acropolis Museum Restaurant

Steak-I

Exarhia

Acropolis

EAT

Bakeries & Patisseries Paul

Esperidon Square and Kyprou 70, Tel: 210.894.7169, A real French boulangerie that serves meals too.

Bios

Pireos 84, Tel: 210.342.5335 An avant-garde multi-level venue housing a bar, a basement club, art exhibitions, music venues, and a rooftop garden

Hoxton Bar

Voutadon 42, Tel: 210.341.3395, A cocktail bar based on Hoxton in East London

Gazarte

Boutadon 32-34, Tel: 210.346.0347 Lounge bar with excellent views of the Acropolis, ethnic music and live events

Gasoline

Restaurants All Senses Gastronomy

Lazaraki 12, Tel: 210.898.0080 Lives up to its name of tickling your senses.

Aperitivo

Kyprou 70, Tel: 210.894.0377 Authentic Italian cuisine in a cosy Miche setting

lin Jerome Chef Serre Grigoriou Lambraki 2,work s his m s Tel: 210.894.8882 agic Ark

Chef Yiannis Baxevanis brings Miamiinspired opulence to Glyfada

Gargittion 23Α, Tel: 210.346.9396 All day bar with freestyle music and interesting guest-nights

Drop the Fork

MoMix

Food Mafia

Keleou 1-5, Tel: 697.435.0179, Temple of mixology and high-quality bartending

Lazaraki 10 & Dousmani 14, Tel: 210.968.0040 Laodikis & Filikis Etairias10, Tel: 210.894.2177 International fare with attitude

Giouvetsakia

Yi Recommends

Ithomis 20 and Moreos, Tel: 210.964.8081 Organic mageirefta food

Hama

Grigoriou Lambraki 34, Tel: 210.960.0595, Sophisticated Japanese cuisine in a cosy setting

Holy Spirit

Laodikis 41, Tel: 210.898.2650 Cocktail Bar with great menu and beautiful atmosphere

Ingredients: 200 gm strawberries 150 gm of almond milk 1 tbsp of honey or maple syrup 10 gm of chia seeds 4-5 ice cubes

Il Salotto

Markou Botsari 13, Tel: 210.894.8397 Minimal décor, elegant Italian fare

Inbi

Lazaraki 26, Tel: 210.894.4982 Sushi fusion

Indi-Go

Jamon Pintxos Bar

Laodikis 33-35, Tel: 210.894.6089 Basque “pinchos” in a cozy setting

Keep Woking

Dimitriou Gounari 70, Tel: 211.012.2801, Create-your-own Asian cuisine, fast and funky

La Casa Di Giorgino

Kyprou 30-32, Tel: 210.963.8770 Authentic Italian pizza made in a traditional wood-burning oven

Spiti

Vinarte

Tartare

Cafes

Lazaraki 12, Tel: 210.898.0080 A perfect place for a family meal with great food and cocktails Al. Panagouli 52, Tel: 210.968.0320 Gourmet French cuisine that draws regulars.

The Burger Joint

Markou Botsari 8,Tel: 210.894.4850 Creative Mediterranean cuisine.

Foivis 17, Tel: 210.894.0260 NY style, organic burgers in a casual and relaxed environment.

Molly Malone’s

Vincenzo

Mutfak

Yi

Mimaya

Yannitsopoulou 8, Tel: 210.894.4247 Irish pub serving probably the best Irish Stew in Athens Laodikis 38, Tel: 210.894.9060 Politiki Kouzina in a romantic setting

Nikolas tis schinousas

Giannitsopoulou 1, Tel: 210.894.1310 Value for money Italian specialities with a Southern Italian touch Grigoriou Lampraki 69, Tel: 210.964.8512

CreperieS

Diadohou Pavlou 48, Tel: 210.894.9550 Chic Greek fish tavern along Glyfada’s the A seafront.

To Paramythi

Pere Ubu

Bars, Clubs & Lounges

Kyprou 9,

lBacio Tel: 210.894.1361 Nomi Italian Restaurantteam mov es to Creperie in a fairy-tale setting Laodikis 47, Tel: 210.898.6015 G Terrific Italian fare at great prices lyfada DRINK Kyprou 74, Tel: 211.215.8737 Fab burgers, great cocktails, right next to the sprawling UBU organic store

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

Soleto

Laodikis 33, Tel: 210.968.0460

Su Casa

Kyprou 82, Tel: 210.898.5554 Authentic Mexican food paired with any type of tequila you could want

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

Marangou 18, Tel: 210.894.1511 A wine bar and Italian restaurant with regular art exhibitions and cool decor

Chocolat

Zisimopoulou 9, Tel: 210.894.3442 Satisfies even the most discerning coffee connoisseur

EAT

Halandri

Konstantinoupoleos 15, Tel: 210.968. 0643

Summer Antioxidant smoothie with strawberry and chia seeds.

After washing the strawberries well, transfer all the ingredients to the blender until you get the desired texture.

This smoothie is an even split of 30% antioxidants, 30% Omega fat and 30% protein. Chia seeds were considered so special, the Aztecs offered them as a gift to their gods.

30 something

Iroon Sq 8, Tel: 210.689.9227 Pizza and cocktail bar in a San Franscisco atmosphere

Anahita

Chr. Smirnis 3, Tel: 210.689.1222 The only place in Athens to try authentic Persian dishes

Apsendi

Kifissias 250-254 & Serron Tel: 210.671.7890, Refined cuisine and cocktails in stylish urban atmosphere

Bo Botrini’s

Vasileos Georgiou B 24b, Tel: 210.685.7323 Athens’ best table by far

Saipan

K. Varnali 9, Tel: 210.685.0644 Exquisite dishes from China, Japan and Indonesia

Psomi & Alati

Eleftherioton Sq 8, Tel: 210.684.8178 Gastronomic paradise serving Greek dishes with a modern twist

Rakokazano

Irakliou 1, Tel: 210.689.5501 Quality Greek mezzes in a cosy simple environment

Τo Vazaki - juice bar

Aristotelous 33, Tel: 210.680.0067

Chapeau

Wine Not

Chefi’s

DRINK

Sokratous 4, Tel: 210.684.5300, Une cuisine primée Perikleous 31, Tel: 210.681.5774 Refined cuisine with international flavours and regular wine tastings

El Taco Bueno

Ethnikis Antistaseos & Psaron 1 Tel: 210.684.0460, Mexican flavours in a traditional setting

Kalogrezis 12, Tel: 210.689.0007 Industrial setting with eclectic wine list

Hide & Seek

Kifisias 254, Tel: 210.677.6747 Great drink menu and perfect garden for spring and summer

Spiti Cocktail Bar

Αndrea Papantreou 9, Tel: 210.683.3677 Great cocktails and sophisticated jazz tunes

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EAT

Hilton

Oozora

Agiou Trifonos 15, Tel: 210.801.8515 Japanese-Thai fusion Restaurant

Vassilenas

O Tzitzikas Ki O Mermigas

Vrassida 13, Tel: 210.721.0501 Exquisite Greek specialties

Drosini 12-14, Tel: 210.623.0080 A modern taverna serving traditional dishes at reasonable prices

Byzantino

Athens Hilton, Vas. Sofias 46, Tel: 210.728.1400 Traditional Greek recipes with a Mediterranean twist

Paul

Levidou 4, Tel: 210.808.4288 French boulangerie

Rakkan

Cookoovaya

CTC

Oumplianis 14 & Dioharous 27, Tel: 210.722.8812, Different 6 course menus every night, with exceptional quality!

Leilimlei

Baltinon 2 , Tel: 211.700.9383

Milos

Athens Hilton Vas. Sofias 46, Tel: 210.724.4400, Simply prepared local flavours. Guaranteed value for money

Vezene

Vrasida 11, Tel: 210.723.2002 Modern bistrot serving seafood & cured beef

Vlassis

Meandrou 15, Tel: 210.646.3060 & 210.725.6335, Family-run taverna serving traditional Greek food

DRINK Galaxy Bar

Athens Hilton, Vas. Sofias 46, Tel: 210.728.1402, Rooftop cocktails in a chic atmosphere

Kerameikos

EAT Aleria

Meg. Alexandrou 57, Tel: 210.522.2633 Adventurous Greek cuisine in a cosy setting

Athiri

Plataion 15, Tel: 210.346.2983 Greek & Mediterranean cuisine in beautiful surroundings

DRINK CV Bar

Konstantinoupoleos 108 Tel: 210.345.1744

Nixon

Agisilaou 61B, Tel: 210.346.2077 Top Athenian hedonist hangout for the 30-something crowd.

EAT 21 Restaurant

Kolokotroni 21, Tel: 210.623.352, Highly recommended.

Refined al-fresco dining with excellent service

Artisanal

Zirini 2, Tel: 693.614.4744 Unique lounge & garden with exceptional classy touch

Berdema

Skiathou 3 & Strofiliou, Tel: 210.620.1108 Family restaurant with Mediterranean fare

Blue Pine

P.Tsaldari 37, Tel: 210.807.7745 A hark back to retro Athens

Buba

Papadiamanti 4, Tel: 210.623.1151 Mixing pot of cuisines from around the world

Cash

Diligianni 54, Tel: 212.100.4772 Cosmopolitan hang-out with upscale Mediterranean cuisine

Funky Gourmet

Common Secret

Polly Maggoo

Dos Hermanos

Paramythias 13 & Salaminos, Tel: 210.524.2727, Haute cuisine in art deco interior

Leonidou 80 & Salaminos, Tel: 210.524.1120, Gourmet cuisine in a post-modern setting.

Seychelles

Keramikou 49, Tel: 211.183.4789

Tamarind

Keramikou 51, Tel: 210.522.5945 Thai food in a beautiful setting

64 | insider athens

Kifisias 238-240, Tel: 210.808.7941 Japanese restaurant, bar, lounge with signature cocktails

Galaxy Bar - Hilton

Kifissia

Hatziyianni Mexi 2A, Tel: 210.723.5005 5 famous chefs combine their talents to create unique flavors.

Kifissias 324, Tel: 210.623.3810 Coffee and light Mediterranean meals in a pleasant setting Kyriazi 24, Tel: 210.808.7906 Excellent Mexican food & super margaritas

Elaias Gi

Dexamenis & Olimpionikon 4, Tel: 210.620.0005 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 di Atene

Panagitsas 3, Tel: 210.623.3934 Specially-prepared Italian meals

Jaipur Palace

Kifissias 222, Tel: 210.808.8318 Indian cuisine and fine wines

Kastelorizo

Platanon 2, Tel: 210.807.5408 Part of a chain of upscale seafood restaurants that is sure to please

Kokkino Psaraki

Evagelistrias 36, Tel: 210.620.1572 Seafood taverna

Kool Life

Royal Thai

Zirini 12, Tel: 210.623.2322 Thai cuisine in an opulent setting

Semiramis Restaurant

Semiramis Hotel, Harilaou Trikoupi 48, Tel: 210.628.4500 Mediterranean cuisine in a hip atmosphere

Suba

Levidou 11, Tel: 210.808.5586 A blend of traditional and modern Japanese cuisine

Telemachos Barbeque Club

Fragkopoulou 22, Tel: 210.807.6680 Rare meats char-grilled to perfection

The Dalliance House

Kyriazis 19, Tel: 210.623.0775 The 19th century meets the 21st in beautiful setting, with successful recipes

The Wilbury  

Kifisias 238, Tel: 210.808.9454

Tomoe

Gortinias 11& Dangli, Kifissia, Tel: 210.801.3553 Great sushi at terrific prices

Life Gallery, Thiseos 103, Tel: 211.106.7400 Innovative cuisine in a cool restaurant cum deli

DRINK

La Gabinoteca

Patr. Maximou 1 Tel: 210.623.3550

Th. Diligianni 56, Tel: 210.808.3988 Tapas bar with decadent atmosphere

Margherita

Kifisias 363, Tel: 211.408.1132 Fantastic pizza made with local ingredients from all over Greece

Nargile

Harilaou Trikoupi 50, Tel: 210.808.3333 Lebanese cuisine in a cosmopolitan ambience

Nolita

Semiramis Hotel Harilaou. Trikoupi 48, Tel: 210.623.1181

Nui

Gortinias 11, Tel: 210.801.3553 Gourmet mutli-Asian restaurant

ESCOBA Dyo 48

Kifisias 248, Tel: 210.623.0870 New hang out oasis with retro ambience

Mento CafĂŠ

Ag. Theodorou 10, Tel: 210.808.0193 Traditional home turned stylish cafe

Vinifera

Kifissias 317, Tel: 210.807.7709 Selection of wines from all over the world

Food & Wine Cellier

Kifissias 369, Tel: 210.801.8756 By far, one of the best cellars stocking the finest labels in town

Bakeries & Patisseries Cake

Irodotou 15, Tel: 210.721.2253 For real American homemade cheesecake, brownies and more

Fresh

Kriezotou 12, Tel: 210.364.2948 Desserts and cakes

Restaurants Abovo

Tsakalof 18, Tel: 210.338.8838 Refined Mediterranean fare

Altamira

Tsakalof 36A, Tel: 210.361.4695 Flavours of multiethnic cuisine

Cafe Boheme

Omirou 36, Tel: 210.360.8018 Welcoming nook with Greek cooking and more-ish cocktails

Capanna

Ploutarchou 38 & Charitos, Kolonaki Tel: 210.724.1777 People-watching and authentic Italian fare

Cinco

Skoufa 52, Tel: 210.364.3603 Great cocktails and specialty tapas

Codice Blu

Haritos & Loukianou, Tel: 210.723.0896 Italian cuisine, great for family brunches and people-watching.

Filippou

Xenokratous 19, Tel: 210.721.6390 Home-cooked Greek taverna dishes

Freud Oriental

Xenokratous 21 Tel: 210.729.9595 Creative fusion cuisine

IT restaurant

Skoufa 29, Tel: 210.363.5773, Affordable gourmet menu in a chic environment.

Kalamaki Kolonaki

Ploutarhou 32, Tel: 210.721.8800 Souvlakia on the sidewalk have never been so trendy

Kiku

Sale e Pepe

Aristipou 34, Tel: 210.723.4102 Authentic Italian trattoria

Scala Vinoteca

Dimokritou 12, Tel: 210.364.7033 Fresh, beautifully presented sushi

Sina 50, Tel: 210.361.0041 Mediterranean restaurant ideal for wining & dining

L’Abreuvoir

Showroom

Xenokratous 51, Tel: 210.722.9106 Fine French cuisine

La Pierrade

Milioni 12, Tel: 210.364.6460 Missoni-designed interiors, serving unique Mediterranean flavours

Spefsippou 30, Tel: 210.723.7297 Elegant setting, refined cuisine, extremely polite service.

Simul

La Suite Lounge

Lachitos 5, Tel: 210.723.7575 Original French cuisine

St George Lycabettus Hotel, Kleomenous 2, Tel: 210.741.6000 Gourmet Greek cuisine

Malconi’s

Patriarchou Ioakeim 43 & Ploutarxou, Tel: 210.724.8920 Great food, bustling atmosphere.

Mayor

Filikis Eterias, Sq 19 Tel: 210.364.8156

Nice n Easy

Ipsilantou 63, Tel: 210.722.4737

Spiros & Vasilis

Skoufa 58 & Sina, Tel: 210.338.8211 Authentic sushi in the heart of the city

TGI Friday’s

Tutti a Tavola

Ouzadiko

Karneadou 25-26, Tel: 210.729.5484 Traditional Greek appetizers & ouzo

Papadakis

Fokilidou 15 & Voukourestiou 47A Tel: 210.360.8621 Paros’ legendary gourmet restaurant serving seafood in the heart of Athens

Ratka

Haritos 32, Tel: 210.729.0746 Popular haunt of the rich and almost famous, with cosmopolitan cuisine

Barefo ot, DIY Tsakalof 6, yakiniku exp erience Tel: 210.364.7712 Red door

Authentic Japanese experience

Omirou 60 & Skoufa 40, Tel: 210.339.2370 All day hang-out with music ranging from jazz to famous soundtracks

Skoufaki

Skoufa 47-49, Tel: 210.364.5888 All time classic café bar

T5

Tsakalof 5, Tel: 210.362.1776

Spefsippou 8, Tel: 210.722.2785 Authentic Italian trattoria at affordable prices.

Tuttitalia

Ten

Ploutarhou 10, Tel: 210.721.0161 One of the most popular hot spots in town

Cafés

Valaoritou 14, Tel: 210.338.9669 An authentic and hospitable Italian trattoria

Da Capo

Tsakalof 1, Tel: 210.360.2497 Long-established people-watching hangout

Yoko Sushi & Bento

39 Patriarchou Ioakeim Tel: 210.342.4654 Fresh sushi to-go!

Peros

Yoleni’s

Kolonaki Square, Tel: 210.364.5068 Enjoy a cup of java if you can find a spot

Zurbaran,

Tea

Solonos 9, Tel: 212.222.3600 Patriarchou Ioakim 38, Tel: 210.723.8334

To Tsai

Soutsou 19, Tel: 210.338.8941 Tea & tea paraphernalia from around the world

DRINK Bars, Clubs & Lounges

EAT

56

Agani

Ploutarchou 56, Tel: 210.723.1424 A quaint jazzy whiskey bar for the discerning

City

Charitos 43, Tel: 210.722.8910 Modern aesthetics, mutli-culti crowd and soulful music

London str 72

To Tsai

Rosebud

Suba Restaurant

Nikkei

Lycabettus Hill, Tel: 210.722.7065 Gourmet dining with a spectacular view

Ploutarhou 18, Tel: 210.725.8306 Early evening cocktails in a laid-back atmosphere

Loukianou 36, Tel: 213.026.3656 Fashionable gastro pub

Omirou 60 & Skoufa, Tel.: 210.361.7201 Gourmet cafe-restaurant with organic products and jazz music

Orizontes Lycavyttou

Mai Tai

Stinking Bishops

Kolokotroni 35, Tel: 210.623.3945, American restaurant with real steak and barbecuesauce for casual dining!

Leventi 3, Tel: 210.723.9366 Peruvian aromas and flavours in Kolonaki!

IT Restaurant

Maroussi

Kolonaki

EAT

Solonos 72, Tel: 693.951.1760, 690.607.3362 Union jacks and red telephone booths in an all day bar-restaurant

Kifissias 22, Tel: 210.277.7065 Delectable, inspired Greek cuisine

Altamira

Perikleous 28, Tel: 210.612.8841 Multiethnic cuisine in funky environment

Aneton

Stratigou Lekka 19, Tel: 210.806.6700 Traditional cuisine in a comfy-chic setting reminiscent of the 50s & 60s

insider athens | 65

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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

Prytaneion

Kifissias Ave, Tel: 210.683.8083 Generous portions of Mediterranean fare

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

Mavili Sq

EAT 48 Urban Garden

Armatolon kai Klefton 48, Tel: 210.80.18.515 Cool, minimalist environment and interesting, fusion cuisine.

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

DRINK Balthazar

Tsoha 27, Tel: 210.644.1215 Lovely garden and chic interior attracts a cool crowd

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

Souvlaki Bar

Adrianou 7 & Thisiou 15, Tel: 210.515.0550

Stou Meïdani

Sokratous 3 & Evripidou Tel: 210.324.9073, A menu that is sure to please with speciality oven dishes

Thanassis

Mitropoleos 69, Tel: 210.324.4705 A souvlaki lover’s paradise

To Kouti

Adrianou 23, Tel: 210.321.3229 Mediterranean fare right next to the ancient agora

DRINK 360 Cocktail Bar

Ifestou 2, Tel: 210.321.0006

A for Athens

Bairaktaris

Miaouli 2-4, Tel: 210.324.4244 An urban terrace with the most stunning view of the Acropolis

Café Avissinia

Normanou 3, Tel: 206.700.4917 A young scene with great cocktails and affordable finger food overlooking the Acropolis

Monastiraki Square 2 Tel: 210.321.3036 Old-world taverna serving traditional Greek fare

Couleur Locale

Kynetou 7, Tel: 210.321.7047 Specializing in regional dishes & live music on weekends

Loukoumi Bar

Cosa Nostra

Six Dogs

Grexico Mexican Street

Spollati

Agias Theklas 5, Tel: 210.331.0900 Excellent Italian food with a 1920’s Chicago retro atmosphere.

Food

Fokionos 4, Tel: 210.331.5540 Tantalising Mexican flavours

Melilotos

Kalamiotou 19, Tel: 210.322.2458 Greek-Mediterranean cuisine with fresh local ingredients

Savvas

Ermou 91, Tel: 210.321.1167 Gyros & Middle Eastern dishes like pastourmali

Sigalas-Bairaktaris

Monastiraki Sq. 2, Tel: 210.321.3036 Century-old restaurant serving a variety of fresh dishes

Plateia Avissinias 3, Tel: 210.323.4814 An all day hang-out with good music, cool atmosphere and great views Avramiotou 6-8, Tel: 210.321.0510 A day&night cultural entertainment center and bar with a vivid 600m2 back-garden.

Aiolou 27A, Tel: 215.551.3004 A delicious combination of signature cocktails with homemade syrups and funky Mediterranean cuisine

Taf

Normanou 5, Tel: 210.323.8757 Outdoor bar in a neoclassical building with arty atmosphere and great exhibitions

CAFes Athinas 44, Tel: 210.321.6892 Best espresso in town.

Omonia

Aghias Irinis Square 2, Tel: 213.004.9645 Trendy and hip coffee shop and cocktail bar.

EAT Athinaikon

Themistokleous 2, Tel: 210.383.8485 A traditional Greek ouzeri

66 | insider athens

Panepistimiou 46, Tel: 210.330.3000 Greek classics in old-world decor

Mama Tierra

Akadimias 84, Tel: 211.411.4420

Olive Garden

Hotel Titania, Panepistimiou 52, Tel: 210.332.600. Good food and great view of the Acropolis.

Pallas Athena

Athinas 65 & Lykourgou Tel: 210.325.0900. Urban design, organic cuisine, Cretan deli corner

Trata

Themistokleous 8 and Nikitara 9, Tel: 210.383.8531, Excellent fish taverna in the centre of Athens

CAFes Cosa Nostra

Agias Theklas 5, Tel: 210.331.0900 Excellent Italian food with a 1920’s Chicago retro atmosphere.

EAT Fatsio

Efroniou 5, Tel: 210.721.7421 Greek food & political gossip

Mavro Provato

Ariannou 31, Tel: 210.722.3466 Best value-for-money meal in Athens

Spondi

Pyrronos 5, Tel: 210.756.4021, A mix of European & more exotic flavours. Voted one of the best in Athens

Tortuga

Archimidous 1, Tel: 213.030.7520, Healthy, affordable street-style food.

Trapezaria

Efronionos 13, Tel: 210.921.3500, Mediterranean cuisine in chic setting

Trata o Stelios

Mokka

Tailor Made

Fuga

Ideal Restaurant

Pangrati

Agiou Konstantinou 56, Tel: 210.610.9988, Italian menu with a menu that changes daily!

Monastiraki

Dal Professore

Duck Soup

Panepistimiou 39 Tel: 210.323.3916

Anagenniseos Sq. 7-9, Tel: 210.729.1533 The best grilled fish in town

Vespa Rosa

Naiadon 2, Tel: 210.723.4551 Great value-for-money Italian cuisine

DRINK LIVE BARS Abaroriza

Plastira Square 10, Tel: 210.701.9530 A pet friendly place with long balcony tables that fill up every night

Half Note Jazz Club

Trivonianou 17, Tel: 210.921.3310 A jazz club with great history, hosting important names from the international music scene.

Petralona

EAT Andaman

Alopis 65, Tel: 211.210.4939, Thai food in an exotic setting

Blue Bamboo

Kidantidon 24, Tel: 210.342.3124, Thai food with modern interior design

Thio Tragi

Kidantidon 36, Tel: 210.341.0296 Creative gourmet kitchen with high quality ingredients

DRINK Kurios Hou

Yperionos 1 & Dimofontos, Tel: 210.342.3972, Among Petralona’s trendy dining options with attitude.

Piraeus

EAT 1920

Etolikou 72 & Vitolion, Tel: 210.461.2457 Friendly food and atmosphere

Captain John’s

Ak. Koumoundourou 16A, Tel: 210.417.7589 Traditional seafood

Dourambeis

Ak. Protopsalti 29, Tel: 210.412.2092 Classic fish taverna

Jimmy and The Fish

Ak. Mikrolimanou, Tel: 210.412.4417 Excellent seafood; try the astakomakaronada

Hams and Clams

Akti Themistokleous 36, Tel: 210.418.6683

Keg ‘n’ Crew

Akti Miaouli 83, Tel: 210.429.0396 Comfort food and cold beers

Kollias

Plastira 3, Tel: 210.462.9620 Excellent seafood but difficult to find; reserve on weekends

Papaioannou

Akti Koumoundourou 42, Tel: 210.422.5059, For Greek fish specialities on the harbourfront.

Rouan Thai

Notara 131, Tel: 210.429.4494, Home-style Thai food

Tony Bonano

Papanastasiou 63, Tel: 210.411.1901 Italian cuisine with a view of the harbour N

Electra

Nikodimou 18-20, Tel: 210.337.0000 Roof-top dining with Greek cuisine

ew R Mono Wine Restaurant oofto p Ba Ven. Paleologou 4, Tel: 210.322.6711 Ak. Koumoundourou 52, open r ing Unpretentious gourmet cuisine Varoulko

Antaios

G. Drosini 7, Tel: 210.675.5493 Relaxed atmosphere with delicious mezedes

Barabicu

Mikrolimano, Tel: 210.522.8400 Seafood prepared by Michelin star-winning chef Lefteris Lazarou

La Pantera Negra

25 Martiou 28, Tel: 210.674.3874

Vosporos

Scholarheio

Bluefield Burger

Zefyros

Ydria

The Burger Joint

Zorbas

DRINK

China’s Fantasy

Akti Koumoundourou 20, Tel: 210.412.7324, Mediterranean dining with a sea view.

Ak. Koumoundourou 48, Tel: 210.417.5152 Fresh seafood on the quay Ak. Koumoundourou 14, Tel: 210.411.1663 Unique flavours of the Mediterranean

DRINK Istioploikos

Ak. Microlimanou, Tel: 210.413.4084 One of the hip places to see and be seen with a rooftop bar overlooking the yachting marina

Katafigio

Ak. Koumoundourou 4, Tel: 210.413.1612 Club, cafe & beer house

Mary Pickford

Varoulko Seaside, Akti Koumoundourou 52, Tel: 210.412.3308

EAT 2 Mazi

Nikis 48, Tel: 210.322.2839 Creative gourmet dishes that change monthly

7 Food Sins

Filomousou Eterias Sq. 1 Tel: 210.701.1108

Brettos

Kydathaneon 41, Tel: 210.323.2110, Legendary wateringhole in the Plaka district

Daphne’s Restaurant 7 Food Sins

Varoulko

Lysikratous 4, Tel: 210.322.7971 Refined classic Greek dishes in a resplendent atmosphere

Kalogrini 6, Tel: 213.036.4214 Tripodon 14, Tel: 210.324.1605 A traditional tray taverna with old fashioned decor & prices Adrianou 68 & Eolou,Tel: 210.325.1619 Taditional Greek cuisine

Aggelopoulou 3, Tel: 210.677.7739 For real American burgers Solomou 4-6, Tel: 210.671.2222, New York style, organic burgers in an industrial and fresh restaurant environment.

Bars, Clubs & Lounges

Kambouroglou 32, Tel: 210.674.9889 Chinese cuisine

Noël

Dioskouroi

Kolokotroni 59B, Tel: 211.215.9534 An evening lounge scene with friendly service and Italian inspired food and drink

Dim. Vasiliou 16, Tel: 210.671.3997 All day café-restaurant

Dourampeis Oyster

The Clumsies

Andrianiou 37, Tel: 210.671.0100 Delectable seafood and frech oysters

Throubi

Perikleous 11, Tel: 210.671.1976 A modern take on a traditional psarotaverna

Toy Cafe

Dim. Vasiliou Av. & Lykourgou, Tel: 210.677.5011, Creative bistro cuisine ideal fro business lunches

Praxitelous 30, Tel: 210.323.2682 Features tasty cocktails and premium spirits that attract all ages Aghias Eirinis Square & Vasilikis 1, Tel: 210.323.0926, A cozy and colorful space with a good selection of coffee and cocktails

Fish Co. Platters

Gaspar Food and Mood

Karytsi 10, Tel: 210.331.1555 Jazz and funk venue that started the Karytsi street scene

Hachiko Sushi

Warehouse CO2

Mpoumpoulinas & N. Paritsi, Tel: 210.672.8790 Traditional flavours in an informal atmosphere

Iperidou 1, Tel: 210.324.7048

EAT

Psychico

Empedokleous 28-30, Tel: 211.404.6076 The new hot spot for retro gamers

Plaka

Superfly

310 Street

Leof. Kifisias 304,Tel: 211.411.2211

Krithamos

La Piazzetta

28is Oktovriou 4, Tel: 210.675.3732

Kifissias Av. 310, Tel: 210.671.0688 Juicy burgers and rich salads with retro look

Ombra

Albion

Piperia

Omirou 6, Tel: 210.674.0710 Mediterranean flavours in a cosy atmosphere

Olimpionikon 220 & Lykourgou, Tel: 210.671.1320 Italian food with attitude Agg. Sikelianou 8 & Andrianiou, Tel: 210.672.9114 Terrific fusion food with piquant flavours

insider athens | 67

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Polly Maggoo

DRINK

P.s.Pecora

Bars, Clubs & Lounges

Aggelou Sikelianou 8, Tel 210.524.1120 Ag. Georgiou 1 & Olympionikon Tel: 210.672.8107 Mediterranean cuisine with Italian flair

Rena tis Ftelias

25th Martiou 28, Tel: 210.674.3874 Highly recommended Greek taverna

Pasaji

Plaza Lounges

NJV Athens Plaza Hotel Vas. Georgiou A & Stadiou Tel: 210.335.2400 All day lounge with salads & snacks

Booze Cooperativa

Geona’s

Cinque Wine & Deli

Sushimou

GB Corner

Skoufou 6, Tel: 211.407.8457 Owner Chef Antonis Drakoularakos, rated among the world’s 100 top chefs, lets his food do the talking

Indian Kitchen

Petraki 10, Tel: 211.216.7081, Feisty Mexican street food choices at pocket-friendly prices

Black Duck

Agatharhou 15,Tel: 215.501.7853

Cantina Social

Kudu

25th Martiou 22, Tel: 217.722.3040 Authentic coffee experience.

Leokoriou 8, Tel: 210.325.1668, Tiny standing bar, ideal for socializing

Dude

Diporto

Sokratous 9, Tel: 210.321.1463 Old-world tavern offers bargain basics like salads, sardines & fava

Falafellas

Aiolou 51,Tel: 210.323.9809 Gourmet ethnic street food

Gostijo

Aisopou 10, Tel: 210.323.3825, Kosher menu and Mediterranean “repertoire”

Epiros Tavern

Athens Central Market Filopimenos 4, Tel: 210.324.0773, Great traditional Greek tavern, an excellent place for lunch

Kouzina Cine-Psirri

EAT

Syntagma

Psyrri

Kalamiotou 14, Tel: 210.322.7130 Uptempo bar inspired by “Big Lebowski”

EAT

Amandine Bagels & Gourmandises

Nikis 13, Syntagma Tel: 210.323.9829 Fresh bagels and French pastries

Avocado

Apollonos 6, Tel: 210.323.7720

Ioannis

Royal Olympic Hotel, Ath. Diakou 28-34, Tel: 210.928.8400 Greek & Mediterranean cuisine with breathtaking views from the rooftop

Kiki’s de Grece

Ipitou 4, Tel: 210.321.1279 Cosy wine bar with French flair

Koi

15 Nikis, Tel: 210.321.1099 Affordable street-food style sushi

Los Loros

Black Duck Multiplarte

Makalo

Christou Lada, 9 Tel: 210.323.4760

By The Glass

Souri 2, Tel: 210.323.2560 Charming wine bar with character

City Bistro

Museum of Greek Gastronomy

Dosirak

Ag. Dimitriou Tel: 210.321.1311, Modern Hellenic cuisine and avantgarde gastronomic exhibitions.

Hotel Grand Bretagne, Tel: 210.333.0750, Luxurious surroundings, Mediterranean cuisine

Nikis 30, Tel: 210.323.7878 Vegetarian restaurant

Sari 40, Tel: 210.321.5534 Mediterranean fare & eclectic music

Leokoriou 7, Tel: 210.331.2950 Mediterranean/French cuisine

Panepistiomiou 10, Tel: 210.722.4824 A true French patisserie

Iroon Square 1, Tel: 210.322.8443 Relaxed atmosphere with wide selection of microbrews Kolokotroni 57, Tel: 211.405.3733 A multi-purpose meeting venue for drinks, performances, and games

Ochre & Brown

Paul

Beer Time

DRINK Davaki 1 & 28is Oktovriou, Tel: 210.675.5571

Stoa Spyromiliou, Tel: 210 .322.0714, Bang in the heart of Athens’ luxe zone.

Stoa Spiliomilou, Tel: 210.321.1315, Refined cuisine in chic setting Voulis 31-33, Tel: 210.323.3330 Japanese & Korean cuisine in the heart of Athens

Feedέλ Urban Gastronomy

Ktena 1, Athens, Tel: 210.321.0551 Funky interior, a delightful patch of green space

Xenofontos 14 & Nikis, Tel: 210.324.3232 Nikis 23, Tel: 211.406.7032

New Taste

New Hotel, Filellinon 16, Tel: 210.327.3170, Mediterranean cuisine with a modern twist

Nolan

Voulis 31-33, Tel:210.324.3545

Noodle Bar

Apollonos 11, Tel: 210.331.8585 A congenial place to drop in for a quick noodle fix

O Tzitzikas ki o Mermigas

Mitropoleos 12-14, Tel: 210.324.7607 Savoury Greek cuisine, perfectly combining modern & traditional elements

The concierge of the Grande Bretagne Hotel recommends EAT

New Cherchez La Femme, Mitropoleos 46, Athens Classic Karamanlidika tou Fani Sokratous 1, Athens Alternative Feedel Urban Gastronomy Ktena 1, Athens

68 | insider athens

DRINK

New Red Door Tsakalof 6, Athens Classic T5, Tsakalof 5, Athens Alternative The Seven Jokers, Voulis 7, Athens

DO

New Maria Callas, The myth lives on Theocharakis Foundation Classic Greece at the Benaki Museum Alternative documenta 14 at EMST National Museum of Contemporary Art, Athens

Taqueria Maya

The Parliament

NJV Athens Plaza Hotel Vas. Georgiou A & Stadiou Tel: 210.335.2400, International cuisine with Mediterranean accents

Tudor Hall Restaurant & Lounge

King George Hotel, Vas. Georgiou A3, Tel: 210.322.2210, Elegant setting, refined cuisine and an incredible Acropolis view

Wild in the City

Stoa Bolani, Voulis 7,Tel: 210.331.5776

DRINK Bars, Clubs & Lounges 42 Bar

Kolokotroni 3, Tel: 694.824.2455, Delicious creative cocktails and mixology

Kolokotroni 9

Kolokotroni 9, Tel: 210.323.2795, A cozy jazz bar with specialty cocktails

Ampariza

Lekka 14, Tel: 210.325.7644 A wall of booze for serious drinkers

Alexander’s

Hotel Grande Bretagne, Syntagma Sq, Tel: 210.333.0000, For cherished cigar and single malt evenings

DRINK

Baba Au Rum

Klitiou 6, Tel: 211.710.9140 Amazing cocktails and rum collection with a cozy environment

Bars, Clubs & Lounges Cava Faydon

Agiou Ioannou 28, Tel: 215.510.9975 Mid-range or special edition wine varieties with a giddy range of imported goodies

Barreldier

Voulis 7, Tel: 210.325.4711 An all-day café-cum-watering hole open into the wee hours

Cava Vegera

Poseidonos 11, Tel: 210.964.6635 A new wine bar changing the game for the stagnant costal enclave

Barley Cargo

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

Ai Nikolas

DRINK

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

Kalua

Amerikis 6, Tel: 210.360.8304 Dance the night away in a chic environment

The James Joyce

Café Zoe

Low Profile

Voulis 7, Tel: 213.035.2144 Impressive selection of single malts

Athenaeum InterContinental, Syngrou Ave 89-93, Tel: 210.920.6655 Casual dining and terrific buffets for lunch and on Sundays

Madras House of Tea

Hytra

Mama Roux

Aiolou 48, Tel: 213.004.8382 A comfortable atmosphere with a variety of international cuisine and an elaborate Sunday brunch

Moriarty,

Christou Lada 1, Tel: 213.040.6763

Oinoscent

Voulis 45-47, Tel: 210.322.9374, Trendy winebar

The Clumsies

Praxitelous 30, Tel: 210.323.2682 Find out why it is rated amongst the best bars in Europe.

The Gin Joint

Christou Lada 1, Tel: 210.321.8646 Popular drinks, classic cocktails and the fanciest G&T in Athens!

The Seven Jokers

Voulis 7, Tel: 210.321.9225

The Trap

Othonos 10, Tel: 210.321.5561 Alluring gold trimmings, cosy mood and smooth tunes and dangerously delicious cocktails on tap

CAFES Kaya

Voulis 7, Tel: 213.028.4305 For a caffeine fix like no other.

Onassis Cultural Center Syngrou Ave 107-109, Tel: 217.707.1118, 210.331.6767 Creative gourmet Greek cuisine with stunning views

Kollias

Syngrou Ave. 303, Tel: 210.940.8620 Excellent seafood in a pleasant Mediterranean atmosphere

Première

Athenaeum InterContinental, Syngrou Ave 89-93, Tel: 210.920.6981 Gourmet cuisine with splendid views

EAT

Thissio

Voulis 7, Tel: 210.324.2777

Indian Masala

Ermou 129, Tel: 210.321.9412 Amazing Indian food at affordable price in a pleasant environment

Kirki

Apostoplou Pavlou 31, Tel: 210.346.6960 Ideal for a lunch break

Kuzina

Adrianou 9, Tel: 210.324.0133 Inspired traditional recipes in a cozy arty environment

Astiggos 12, Tel: 210.323.5055 Genuine Irish pub with typical pub fare

The Sowl

Iraklidon 10, Tel: 210.345.0003 Art, taste, fashion and music collide at this welcoming new “ethnic urban” space

Underdog

Iraklidon 8, Tel: 213.036.5393 Specialty coffees, impressive selection of foreign and Greek craft beers, and exceptional cocktail menu

EAT Coconuts

Vasileos Pavlou 67, Tel: 210.895.5177, The place to stock up on your quinoa chips and acai berries

Drakoulis Meat Open Project

Vas. Pavlou 103, Tel: 210.932.0211 A nightclub, gourmet emporium, and Athens’ most glamorous meat boutique all in one

Dulcis in Fundo

Prinkipos Petrou 33, Tel: 210.894.2136 Top-quality authentic Italian

Koi

98 Vas. Pavlou, Tel: 213.032.0890 Affordable street-food style sushi

Naiades

Vas. Pavlou 74, Tel: 210.965.7706 Popular family grill joint

Ballaro Italian Restaurant & Deli

Plastira 3, Tel: 210.899.4965 An unpretentious hang-out with reasonably-priced drinks, themed sports nights, and knock-out burgers

EAT

Vouliagmeni

Explorer’s Lounge

EAT

Syngrou

Drunk Sinatra

Thiseos 16, Tel: 210.331.3733 A friendly place to drink to vintage music from the ‘50s and ‘60s

Nelly’s Gastro Pub

Avenue

Voula

Kolokotroni 6, Tel: 210.323.0445 Enjoy a wide selection of international and Greek beers accompanied by live music

Ithaki

Apollonos 28, Tel: 210.896.3747 Beautiful sea view, fresh seafood

Lutetia Bistro

brunch

Somewhere Hotel, Dios 2 just Tel: 210.967.0000 Affordable gourmet cuisine

Malabar

The Margi, Litous 11, Tel: 210.892.9160 Multinational tastes in a chic Mediterranean ambience

Matsuhisa Athens

Astir Palace, Apollonos 40, Tel: 210.896.0510, Celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa serves up sushi favourites with a Latin-American flair

Moorings

Marina Vouliagmeni, Tel: 210.967.0659

Mythos of the Sea

Ag. Nikolaou 10 & Iliou, Tel: 210.891.1100 Gourmet Mediterranean cuisine that blends local produce with fresh seafood

Rafale

Apollonos 28, Tel: 210.967.1184 Traditionally prepared seafood dishes presented exquisitely

Sardelaki

Leof. Poseidunos 18, Tel: 210.967.0913 Affordable seafood on the waterfront

Waffle House

Posidonos 17, Tel: 210.896.1227 Sure to satisfy your sweet tooth

DRINK

Posidonos 12, Tel: 210.899.4464 Charming deli-trattoria with flavours from Palermo

En Plo

Troufa Chocolate Bar

27th klm Athinon-Souniou Tel: 210.965.3563-4 Award-winning cuisine & an unmatched location

Vasileos Pavlou 80, Tel: 211.012.0004 Heaven on earth for chocoholics

Sunday

Posidonos 4, Tel: 210.967.1770 Cocktails overlooking Vouliagmeni Bay

Island

insider athens | 69

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Bookstores

Compendium

Alikarnassou 8, Athens Tel: 210.383.2139, 210.322.1248

Ιanos

Stadiou 24, Athens Tel: 210.321.7917, 231.022.1113

Lea Books

Sina 60, Kolonaki Tel: 211.012.0547

Lexikopoleio

Stasinou 13, Tel: 210.723.1201

Ouranio Toxo

Perikleous 41,Ag.Paraskevi Tel: 211.184.6771

Polyglot

Akadimias 84, Tel: 210.330.0455

Public

Karageorgi Servias 1, Syntagma Tel: 210.818.1333, S. Karagiorga 4 & Lazaraki, Glyfada Tel: 210.898.4300, The Mall and Golden Hall, Maroussi Tel: 210.630.0410, Skoufa 3, Kolonaki.

Tel: 210.338.7150

WHSmith Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos.

Tel: 210.353.1080

Deli

Arapian

Evripidou 41, Monastiraki Tel: 210.321.7238 Old-style butcher shop offering cured meats

Bahar

Evripidou 31,Monastiraki Tel: 210.321.7225 Well-known herb haven

Cava Anthidis

Patriarchou Ioakeim 45, Kolonaki, Tel: 210.725.1050 Comprehensive wine and liquor wholesalers

Kostarelos

Cellier

Kriezotou 1d, Syntagma Tel: 210.361.0040, Kifissias Ave. 369, Tel: 210.801.8756, Syngrou Ave. 320, Tel: 210.453.3551 Stockists of premium wines and spirits

Kostarelos

Patr. Ioakeim 30-32, Tel: 210.725.9000 Great selection of cheese and Greek goodies

Kylix

Karneadou 20, Tel: 210.724.5143 Quality picks from the world’s best vineyards

Marks & Spencer Food

Ermou 33-35, Athens, Tel: 210.324.0675 Vouliagmenis Av. 85, Glyfada, Tel: 211.012.4968 Lazaraki 13, Glyfada, Tel: 210.894.3147 Pentelis Av. 23, Vrilissia, Tel: 211.012.5381

Miran

Evripidou 45, Tel: 210.321.7187 Sausages, pastrami & cured meats

Provence

Posidonos 80, Tel: 210.898.1435 Gourmet French delicatessen

Salamat

Korinthias 24, Athens Tel: 210.779.6766

Sorpresa Italiana

Kiriazi 6-8, Tel: 210.801.7886, Authentic fresh Italian pasta, sauces, truffles & more

Stefanidis Finest Foods

Dimitrios Sq 13, Tel: 210.808.2191 Excellent European delicatessen

Varsos

Kassaveti 5, Kifissia Tel: 210.801.2472 Milk products & patisserie

Jewellery

Solonos 77, Kolonaki Tel: 210.362.9703

Wine Garage

Xenokratous 25, Tel: 210.721.3175, Browser-friendly cava with helpful service

Athens Metro Mall

Dept Stores

Le livre ouvert

Vouliagmenis Avenue 276, Tel: 210.976.9444 Shops, cinemas and food

Attica

Apriati

Pindarou 29, Tel: 210.360.7878 Smartly designed jewellery for the young

Elena Votsi

Xanthou 7, Tel: 210.360.0936 Conversation pieces in gold and stone

Fanourakis

Patriarchou Ioakim 23, Kolonaki, Tel: 210.721.1762, Unique collection of animal and insect pins & earrings

Folli Follie

Tsakalof 6 & Solonos 25 Kolonaki, Tel: 210.323.0739 Greece's high-street export stocks watches and everyday bijoux

Omega

Voukourestiou 2, Kolonaki Tel: 210.322.7682 Elegant boutique showcasing the brand's timeless timepieces

Panepistimiou 9, Tel: 211.180.2600 Home to an array of luxury goods

Van Cleef & Arpels

Golden Hall

Bulgari

Kifissias 37A, Tel: 210.680.3450 131 high-end (and highstreet) stores for anyone with a passion for fashion

McArthurGlen

Building Block E71, Yalou, 19004, Spata, Tel: 210.663.0830, 210.663.0840 Designer Outlet Shopping Centre

Voukourestiou 1, Kolonaki Tel: 210.331.0319 The jeweller of the international jetset Voukourestiou 8, Kolonaki Tel: 210.324.7118, Opulent designs in jewellery, watches & accessories

Cartier

Voukourestiou 7, Tel: 210.331.3600 Two floors of designs & timepieces by the prestigious Cartier maison

Petit Bateau

Golden Hall, Kifissias Ave 37A, Tel: 210.681.3050 A. Papandreou 16A & Metaxa, Glyfada, Tel: 210.894.8813

The Mall Athens

Attica

70 | insider athens

Andrea Papandreou 35 Tel: 210.630.0000 Shops, cinemas and food

Chopard

GB Spa

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

Karagiorgi Servias 4 (Stoa Kalliga), Tel: 210.362.7118 & 210.322.2424 Old-world shop known for its original & elegant designs

Pentheroudakis

Voukourestiou 19, Tel: 210.361.3187 Timeless pieces inspired by classical Greek design

Zolotas

Panepistimiou 10, Tel: 210.360.1272 Designs inspired by the ancient Greece as well as contemporary collections by designers like Paloma Picasso

Anamnesia

Athens International Airport Departure Terminal, Tel: 210 3533104 Matogianni, Myconos, Tel: 2289 079171 anamnesia.gr

Acropolis Museum Shop

15 Dionysiou Areopagitou, Tel: 210.900.0911

Benaki Museum Shop

Koumbari & Vas. Sofias Tel: 210.367.1045, www.benakishop.gr

Forget me not

Adriannou 100, Plaka Tel: 210.325.3740 www.forgetmenotathens.gr

Greece is for Lovers

Valtetsiou 50 - 52, Kolonaki Tel: 210.924.5064 www.greeceisforlovers.com Tongue-in-cheek souvenirs for the discerning traveller

It's all, oh so souvenir to me!

Concierge Athens, Ay.Theklas 8, Psirri, Tel: 213.036.9266 More than 50 Greek designers' unique, new imaginative and unexpected ideas that re-define the souvenir www.ohsosouvenir.com

Kori

Mitropoleos 13, Monastiraki Tel: 210.323.3534 Traditional & contemporary jewellery

Museum of Cycladic Art Shop Neophytou Douka 4, Kolonaki Tel: 210.722.8321-3

Ananea Spa

Life Gallery Hotel 103 Thisseos Ave., Ekali, Tel: 211.106.7400

Olive Tree Spa

Hatzigianni Mexi 4, Hilton Tel: 210 724.4425

Orloff Spa Astir Beach Apollonos 40, Vouliagmeni Tel: 210.896.0028

Vintage

Stadiou 2 & Vas. Georgiou Tel: 210.325.0555 Legendary time pieces and jewellery.

Souvenirs

Chopard

Spas

Zolotas

Hiltonia Spa

Vas.Sofias 46, Tel: 210.728.1000

I-Spa

InterContinental Athenaeum Athens Syngrou Avenue 89-93, Tel: 210.920.6000

Athinas 30, Monastiraki 1st-2nd Floor Tel: 210 3217876

Bohbo

Ippokratous 40 & Didotou, Exarhia Tel: 210.338.9202

Gouadeloupi

Protogenous 12, Psyrri, Tel: 697.852.3933

Like Yesterday’s

Protogenous 16, Monastiraki Tel: 216.700.4810 Vintage clothes mainly from the United States

GB Spa at Hotel Grande Bretagne Vasileos Georgiou 1, Syntagma Sq, Tel: 210.333.0799

Amerikaniki Agora

Mofu

Sarri 28, Psyrri, Tel: 210.331.1922 Vintage and contemporary style home décor and furniture

Paliosintheies

Protogenous 8, Psyrri, Tel: 210.656.0574 Vintage home décor and furniture

Preloved

Ipitou 5, Syntagma Second-hand clothing collected from the cities of Paris and Berlin

Retrosexual Vintage Shop

Aghias Eirinis 3, Monastiraki Tel: 210.545.1553 Great collection of merchandise ranging from the ‘20s to the ‘90s.

Sofita

Iraklidon 35, Thissio Tel: 210.346.9904

Yesterday's Bread

Anamnesia

Retrosexual

Kallidromiou 87-89, Tel: 210.881.1233 Imported second-hand clothes; individuality guaranteed

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Badminton Theatre Goudi, Athens, Tel: 211.101.0020 Gialino Music Theatre Sygrou 143, N. Smyrni, 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: 210.321.0219 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.

Pireos 100 & Ermou, Gazi.

Tel: 210.346.1589.

Hadrian’s Arch a Roman arch that markedthe boundary of ancient Athens and the new city. Located at the corner of

Hellenic Cosmos Foundation of the Hellenic world Pireos 254, Tavros. Tel: 212.254.0000. hellenic-cosmos.gr Frissiras Vlassis Museum of Contemporary European Art Monis Asteriou 3-7, Plaka, Tel: 210.323.4678 frissirasmuseum.com Goulandris Foundation Museum of Cycladic Art Neofytou Douka 4, Athens .

Tel: 210.722.8321, cycladic.gr Herakleidon Herakleidon 16, Thissio, Tel: 210.346.1981 Apostolou Pavlou 37, Thissio Tel: 211.012.6486, herakleidon-art.gr Ilias Lalaounis Jewellery Museum Karyatidon & Kallisperi 12, Makrygianni, Acropolis. Tel: 210.922.7260, lalaounis.com Jewish Museum Nikis 39, Plaka.

Tel: 210.322.5582. 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, nma.gr The Acropolis Museum Dionysiou Areopagitou Street, Acropolis.

Tel: 210.924.1043, theacropolismuseum.gr The National Art Gallery and Alexander Soutzos Museum Michalakopoulou 1 - Vas. Constantinou 1, Athens, Tel: 210.723.5857

Agora Museum Located in the Stoa of Attalos, Athens. Tel: 210.321.0185.

Atelier Spyros Vassiliou Webster 5A, Athens.

Tel: 210.923.1502, spyrosvassiliou.org Athens University History Museum Tholou 5, Plaka, Tel: 210.368.9502, history-museum.uoa.gr Benaki Museum Koumbari 1 & Vas. Sofias Avenue, Athens Tel: 210.367.1000, benaki.gr Benaki Museum of Islamic Arts Dipylou 12, Kerameikos.

Tel: 210.325.1311, benaki.gr Benaki Museum, Pireos Pireos 138 & Andronikou, Gazi Tel: 210.345.3111, benaki.gr Byzantine Museum Vas. Sofias 22, Kolonaki, Tel: 210.721.1027

Allou Fun Park Kifissou & Petrou Ralli, Ag. Ioannis Rentis, Tel: 210.425.6999, allou.gr Children’s Museum Kydathinaeon 14, Plaka, Tel: 210.331.2995.

Goulandris Museum of Natural History Levidou 13, Kifissia.

Tel: 210.801.5870, 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 childrensartmuseum.gr Summit The Wall Sport Climbing Center Ag. Athanasiou 12, Pallini, Tel: 210.603.0093, summit.gr Westin Kids Club Apollonos 40, Vouliagmeni, Tel: 210.890.2000 www.westinathens.com/en/westin_kids_club/

Just for kids

Sites Theatres

Galleries

A. Antonopoulou Art Aristofanous 20, Psyrri Tel: 210.321.4994 Artzone 42 42 Vas. Konstantinou, 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., 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, Tel: 210.360.7598 Eleni Marneri Galerie Lebessi 5-7& Porinou 16, Acropolis Tel: 210.8619.488 EMST National Museum of Contemporary Art Kallirrois Av. & Amvr. Frantzi street Athens, Tel: 210.924.2111- 3 Gagosian Gallery Merlin 3, Athens, Tel: 210.364.0215 K-Art Gallery Sina 54, Athens, Tel: 211.401.3877 Kalfayan Gallery Haritos 11, Kolonaki, Tel: 210.721.7679 Kapopoulos Fine Arts Varis - Koropiou Av. 94, Koropi 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 Eynard Mansion Aghiou Konstantinou 20 & Menandrou, Athens, Tel: 210.322.1335 Titanium Yiayiannos Vas. Konstantinou 44, Pangrati, Tel: 210.729.7644 Xippas Gallery Sofokleous 53D, Athens, Tel: 210.331.9333 Zoumboulakis Gallery Kolonaki Square 20, Kolonaki Tel: 210.360.8278, Kriezotou 6, Syntagma, Tel: 210.363.4454

Vas. Olgas and Amalias Avenues.

Lykavittos Hill is the highest point in Athens. Take the teleferique from the top of Ploutarchou St. 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: 210.324.5220.

Museums

ASSOCIATION OF GUIDES Tel: 210.322.9705

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 Megaron Mousikis (The Athens Concert Hall) live concerts, operas and other performances. Vas. Sofias Ave. & Kokkali. Tel: 210.728.2333 Michael Cacoyannis Foundation Piraeus 206, Tavros, Tel: 210.341.8550 Onassis Cultural Centre Syngrou 107-109, Athens, Tel: 213.017.8000 Stavros Niarchos Foundation Vasilissis Sofias Ave. 86A The Art Foundation Normanou 5, Athens, Tel: 210.323.8757

Cultural venues

ORGANISED TOURS

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

506 renovated rooms, two pools, convention facilities, business center, four restaurants, two bars and spa. The rooftop Galaxy Bar and Restaurant has gorgeous city views.

Vas. Sofias 46, Ilisia Tel: 210.728.1000

Located in Kifissia, the hotel offers an unforgettable experience thanks to COCOMAT‘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

COCO-MAT 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

COCO-MAT Hotel Athens is an understated luxury, design hotel that sits in the heart of Kolonaki and offers relaxing sleep, delicious homemade breakfast and selected services for its esteemed guests. 36 Patriarchou Ioakeim str.

Tel: 210.723.0000

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, Kavouri Vouliagmeni. 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

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KEFALARI SUITES

METROPOLITAN

RADISSON BLU

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

Overlooking the Acropolis and the Saronic Gulf, the Metropolitan Hotel combines warm hospitality and urban luxury.

Syngrou Ave 385, Paleo Faliro Tel: 210.947.1000, metrpolitan@chandris.gr

Set across from the lush groves of Pedion tou Areos park, this contemporary hotel is a 4-minute walk from Victoria metro station and 2.9 km from the Acropolis.

Alexandras Avenue 10, Athens Tel: 210.889.4500

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

ATHENS WAS

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

Urban adventure, daring design, original architecture, energetic social hub and stylish comfort, AthensWas’ 21 rooms all feature verandas to take in a truly authentic Athenian experience.

Dionysiou Areopagitou 5, Tel:210.725.4871

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TwentyOne

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

Herodion

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 AVA HOTEL & SUITES

HOTEL ELECTRA

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

amarilia hotel

PERISCOPE HOTEL

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: 210.899.0391

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

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

Recently refurbished, all 50 rooms are wellappointed and comfortable. Good value for money.

Mitseon 3, Acropolis.

Tel: 210.922.3611-4

COSTA NAVARINO

SANTORINI

The Westin Resort Costa Navarino

MYSTIQUE

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

Mystique is an 18 villa hotel, designed by Frank Le Fevbre.

Mystique, Oia. Tel. 22860.71114

The Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort

The Tsitouras Collection Hotel

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

Art and hospitality are graciously combined in the unique backdrop of a dramatic landscape.

Firostefani, Santorini Tel: 22860.23747

evia

VEDEMA

THERMAE SYLLA wellness hotel

Voted one of the ten best spas in the world, it has 101 rooms, 7 Suites and 1 presidential suite with an incredible sea view. 2 restaurants offer traditional Mediterranean cuisine Posidonos 2, Edipsos, Evia. Tel: 22260.60100

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

SANTO MARIS Oia Luxury Suites and Spa

Patmos Aktis Suites & Spa

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

Santo Maris offers exquisite comfort in its 42 suites, 2 sprawling villas, 4 swimming pools, spa and gourmet restaurant in one of the world’s best-loved destinations.

Oia, Santorini, Tel: 22866.00630

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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

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 Athens-Korinth Location Elefsinia, Elefsina Tel: 210.946.6100

Octopus Relocation Services

Ygeias 7, Marina Zeas, Tel: 210.459.9530

4klm Peanias-Markopoulou Av., Koropi Tel: 210.998.4000

TRANSLATIONS / INTERPRETING

Driving Schools in English

Global Business Services Kifisias 90, Maroussi, Tel: 210.876.4876

Trochokinisi Driving School

IBS - International Business Services

28th Oktovriou 126, Ambelokipi, Thessaloniki Tel: 2310.729.092

Michalakopoulou 29, Kaissariani Tel: 210.724.5541

MISSED THESE GREAT ISSUES?

Travel Agencies Travel Plan

Christou 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

French Institute

Embassies Cultural Institutes

Business services

AUDIOVISUAL

Tel: 210.721.3039

BULGARIA Stratigou Kallari 33A, P. Psychico. Tel: 210.674.8105

CANADA Eth. Antistaseos 48, Halandri Tel: 210.727.3400

CHILE

Rigilis 12, Athens, Tel: 210.729.2647

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

Hellenic American Union

DENMARK Mourouzi 10, Athens,

Massalias 22, 10680 Athens, Tel: 210.368.0900

British Council

P. Psychico. Tel: 210.671.9701 Tel: 210.725.6440

EGYPT Vas. Sofias 3, Syntagma, Tel: 210.361.8612

Kolonaki Square 17 106 73 Athens Tel: 210.369.2333

ESTONIA Messoghion 2-4, Ampelokipoi,

Instituto Cervantes

Tel: 210.725.5860

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, Vas. Constantinou 14, Athens Tel: 210.756.4191-2

ARGENTINA

Vas. Sophias 59, Athens Tel: 210.724.4158

ARMENIA

Tel: 210.747.5660

FINLAND Hatziyianni Mexi 5, Athens, 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

IRAQ Mazaraki 4, Psychico, Tel: 210.677.8276

IRELAND Vas. Konstantinou 7, Mets, Tel: 210.723.2405

ISRAEL Marathonodromon 1,

K. Palaiologou 95, Athens, Tel: 210.683.1130, 210.683.1145

P. Psychico, Tel: 210.670.5500

AUSTRALIA

JAPAN Ethnikis Antistaseos 46, Halandri.

ITALY Sekeri 2, Kolonaki, Tel: 210.361.7260

Kifisias & Alexandras, Ampelokipoi, Tel: 210.870.4000

Tel: 210.670.9900

AUSTRIA Vas. Sofias Av. 4,

Tel: 210.674.4161

Athens, Tel: 210.725.7270

AZERBAIJAN

Skoufa 10, Athens, Tel: 210.363.2721

76 | insider athens

BRAZIL Vassilis Sofias 23, Athens

CZECH REPUBLIC G. Seferi 6,

ALGERIA

send us an e-mail at: subscriptions@insider-magazine.gr or give us a call at: 210.729.8634

Hatzikosta 3, Athens, Tel: 210.641.0788

Sina 31, 10680 Athens Tel: 210.339.8600

Tel: 210.687.6200

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BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

BANGLADESH

JORDAN Papadiamanti 21. P. Psychico.

KAZAKHSTAN Imittou 122, Papagou Tel: 210.654.7765

KOREA Messoghion 2-4, Athens.

Tel: 210.698.4080

Marathonodromon 119, Palaio Psychiko Tel: 210.672.0250

KUWAIT Marathonodromon 27,

BELGIUM

LEBANON 6, 25th Martiou, P. Psychico,

Sekeri 3, Kolonaki, Tel: 210.360.0314

P. Psychico, Tel: 210.674.3593 Tel: 210.675.5873

LITHUANIA Vas. Sophias 49, Kolonaki

TURKEY Vas. Georgiou B’ 8, Athens,

Goudi. Tel: 210.772.6000 & 1535

LATVIA Vas. Konstantinou 38, Athens

UKRAINE Stephanou Delta 4, Filothei, Tel:

Private Hospitals

LUXEMBOURG Vas. Sofias 23A & Neofi-

UAE Kifissias Av. 290 & N. Paritsi 2,

Advanced Medical Services, Symmetria Building

MALTA

UK

MEXICO Filikis Etaireias Sq. 14, Kolonaki,

USA

MOLDAVIA Georgiou Bacu 20, Filothei.

URUGUAY

MOROCCO Marathonodromon 5,

VATICAN

NETHERLANDS Vas Konstantinou 5-7,

VENEZUELA Marathonodromon 19,

NIGERIA Streit 17, Filothei Tel: 210.802.1188 NORWAY Hatziyianni Mexi 5, Athens

VIETNAM Yakinthon 50, Psychico,

tou Vamva 2, SyntagmaTel: 210.725.6400 V. Sofias 96, Athens, Tel: 210.778.5138 Tel: 210.729.4780

Tel: 210.699.0660

P. Psychico. Tel: 210.674.4210 Mets, Tel: 210.725.4900

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

SAUDI 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 & Dimokra-

tias 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

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

210.680.0230

Tel: .210.677.0220

Ploutarchou 1, Athens, Tel: 210.727.2600 Vas. Sofias 91, Athens, Tel: 210.721.2951 Menandrou 1, Kifissia, Tel: 210.361.3549 Mavili 2, P. Psychico, Tel: 210.674.3598

P. Psychico. Tel: 210.672.9169

Tel. 210.612.8733, 210.675.3080.

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

Emergencies

Tel. 210.729.4483

Tel: 210.726.3000

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

PAEDON AGLAIA KYRIAKOU HOSPITAL Livadias 3 and Thivon,

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

Paediatric Hospitals

PHYSICIANS

EUROCLINIC PAEDON

Ioannis Bitzos, MD

Health

Tel: 210.729.4356

Antheon 2, P. Psychico, Tel: 210.671.7590

Lemessou 39-41 & Aharnon 209, Kato Patissia, Tel: 210.869.1900

PAEDON AGIA SOFIA HOSPITAL Mikras Asias and Thivon, Goudi. Tel: 210.746.7000

(ENGLISH SPEAKING) Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Harilaou Trikoupi 62, Kifissia, Tel: 210.808.0682

heart & vascular centrE E.N. Deliargyris, MD FACC FSCAI Interventional cardiologist. Southern Athens.

Vakchou 2 & Vas. Kostantinou, Tel: 210.897.6276, www.heartline.gr

Lia D. Papathanakou

Dermatologist – Venerologist Adult / Pediatric Dermatology Patriarchou Ioakim 44, Kolonaki Tel: 210.729.4502, 6974355942.

Newspapers & Magazines

English media

TUNISIA

Tel: 210.674.2120

Athens Insider, the bi-monthly magazine for Greece in English

The International New York Times

carries the English version of

Kathimerini

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

GREEK LANGUAGE

Schools

LIBYA Vyronos 13, P. Psychico,

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

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

A.J. Kanellopoulos, MD

American Community Schools of Athens

Dimitris Linos, MD FACS

Byron College

Eye Surgeon, Tsoha 17, Athens, Tel: 210.747.2777 General Surgeon, Kifissias 227, Kifissia, Tel: 210.612.5001-2

Aghias Paraskevis Ave. 129, Halandri, Tel: 210.639.3200 Filolaou 7, Gerakas, Tel: 210.604.7722

insider athens | 77

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New tel: 138, Tel. (defective): 129 OTE customer service: 134 International call information (English, French & German): 169 www.ote.gr

Road Assistance ELPA: 104

Public Power Corporation (DEI)

www.ika.gr

Greek Manpower Employment Organization (OAED)

www.oaed.gr, Tel: 210 99 89 000

Public Services

Paramythia

Cycladon 11, Glyka Nera, Tel: 210.600.3196

Play and Learn

Kassaveti 22, Kifissia, Tel: 210.801.1428

German kindergartens

Administration Information Center (paperwork assistance) on weekdays 8am-3pm (KEP): Tel: 177, ww.kep.gov.gr

O mikros Antonis

Tel: 148, www.hnms.gr

Scuola maternal italiana de Atene

Water Supply & Sewage (EYDAP)

Citizen’s Rights Ombudsman:

Il Mulino magico

Mitsaki 18, Ano Patissia, Tel: 210.202.0274 Troados 23, Ag Paraskevi, Tel: 210.600.3148

German School in Athens

Dimokritou 6 & Germanikis Scholis Athinon Maroussi, Tel: 210 6199260-5

Greek German School

25 Martiou & Vernardou, Vrylissia Tel: 210.682.0566

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

St Catherine's British Embassy School

Sofoklis Venizelou 77, Lykovrissi Tel: 210.282.9750

St. Lawrence College

Anemon St, Koropi, Tel: 210.891.7000

Universities University of Indianapolis

Ipitou 9, Athens, Tel: 210.323.6647

DEREE

Gravias 6, Aghia Paraskevi, Tel: 210.600.9800

ALBA Graduate Business School Athinas Ave. & Areos 2A, Vouliagmeni Tel: 210.896.4531

English kindergartens

International Kindergartens

Aghias Ioulianis, Pallini, Tel: 210.607.1700

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

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

Prince Allen The English Nursery School Lysimahou 8, Vari Tel: 210.965.6800

French kindergartens Au petit bonheur 50 Iraklitou, Glyfada, Tel: 210 9658 207

Mary Poppins

Spartis 36 & Harilaou Trikoupi, Kifissia Tel: 210 80 11 570 4, Kodrou, Filothei, Tel: 210.677.3803

Tel: 210.929.0200

MASTERCARD

Tel: 00.800.1188.703.03

VISA

Tel: 00.800.1163.803.04 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 9am1:30pm.

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.

German Archaeological Institute Library Pheidiou 1, Athens Tel: 210.362.0270

Goethe Institute Library Hellenic American Union Greek Library

Lakonias 4-6, Voula Tel: 210.895.9654

DINERS CLUB

31 Sina St, Athens Tel: 210.362.4301

Peter Pan

Business College of Athens

78 | insider athens

Athens College Library

Omirou 14-16, Athens Tel: 210.360.8111

Vougliameni, Tel: 210.967.1970

Les Alouettes

Tatoiou 2 & Othonos 77, Kifissia Tel: 210.808.8008

Souedias 54, Athens Tel: 210.723.6313

Peek-a-boo PreSchool

American University of Athens Kifisias & Sochou 4, Neo Psichiko, Tel: 210.725.9301

Libraires

American School of Classical Studies Blegen

Campion School

Tel: 210.324.4975

Italian kindergartens

Weather Attica,

5 Hatziyiannis Mexis (near the Hilton Hotel), Tel: 210 72 89 640

AMERICAN EXPRESS

Barbayiannis, Pallini, Tel: 210.603.2527

In case of power failure: Tel: 210.523.9939 www.dei.gr

In case of water cut: Tel: 1202, www.eydap.gr

LOST OR STOLEN CREDIT CARDS

Money

Social Security & Health insurance (IKA)

Phone Post

Telephone & Internet Services (OTE)

Masalias 22 (7th floor), Athens Tel: 210.362.9886

Italian Archeological Institute Library Parthenonos 14-16, Acropolis Tel: 210921.4024

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

advertise in our Advertise business here and on our website: listings, andyour reach www.insider-publications.com thousands of customers

tram

Tel: 210.998.0222

AAA Royal Prestige Tel: 210.988.3221

From the Port of Piraeus

Alitalia Tel: 210.998.8888 American

Convecta Travel Agency & Limousine Services

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

Air Taxis (Helicopter and

Limousines Kacaya

TAXIS

Tel: 210.361.3373

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

Airport

Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport Spata. Tel: 210.353.0000, 210.353.1000. www.aia.gr

24 HOUR VIP TRANSPORT SERVICE

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 public transport

Car rental

Ada Rent-a-Car

Astra Limousine Service

Tel: 210.922.0333/807.9996

Tel: 210.322.5090 Tel: 210.323.4120

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 €6 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

Arena Tel: 210.894.6883,

HELLENIC RAILWAYS ORGANIsATION

Auto Union

Karolou 1. Tel: 210.529.7002, www.ose.gr

Tel: 210.322.0087 210.614.7400

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

ATHENS METRO Line 1 (Piraeus-Kifissia) 5am-midnight, Line 2 (Anthoupoli-Elliniko) 5.30ammidnight, Line 3 (Aghia Marina-Doukissis Plakentias) 5.30am-midnight Line 3 (Aghia Marina-Airport) 5.30am22.52pm 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

Taxis from the airport have a flat rate of €35 to Central Athens. 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 100, Tel: 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

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 Gtt

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

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.

YACHT CHARTERS A1 Yacht Trade Consortium

Akti Themistokleous 8, Marina Zeas, Piraeus. Tel: 210.458.7100

Ghiolman Yachts

Seaports

Tel: 210.965.2300-22

Public transport

Air Malta

Ferries

LIMOUSINES

Airlines

Aegean Tel: 801.11.20000 Air France KLM

Sea ports Lavrio Tel: 22920.27711, 22920.22089 Piraeus Tel: 210.422.6000-4 Rafina Tel: 22940.22300, 22940.28888

Ferries

Ferries run year-round. For information on seasonal schedules contact a travel agent or call the Port Police on 210.422.6000

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

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Reaching for the Sky Athenian artist Kostis Georgiou may be a Man of Many Mediums, but it’s his vivid talking-point sculptures that have earned him the most attention of late. His joyful skyward-bound creations are bright, fluid, and – somehow serene – and have injected an uplifting energy to civic landscapes and elite galleries from China to New York, Barcelona to Brussels, Cyprus to Canada (not to mention Athens’ seaside hamlets of Voula, Vouliagmeni and P.Faliro). ‘The artwork is not necessary to provide something specific, or to have some “hidden” message,’ says Mr. Georgiou.

‘The project is an autonomous body that emits its energy in any environment. It has an internal reason to exist and its purpose is not to direct the thought to a specific direction. ‘In true art, there is a “why”, but never a “because”.’

1.Kelyphos - Vanke Midtown Mall - China, 2.Galileo in St. Elizabeth Hospital in Brussels, 3.Taurokathaptes in P.Faliron, 4.Equus - Vouliagmeni Athens riviera, 5.Hedgehog, Mykonos, 6. Divers - Cavo Tagoo Mykonos, 7. Kostis Georgiou

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