Greece Now Magazine-Harper's Bazaar Arabia - Summer 2022 by The Media Workshop

SUMMER 2022

DREAMING OF SUMMER FA S H IO N , W E L L N E S S , TA S T E , D E S IG N , DI S C OV E R

MYKONOS • ATHENS Discover more: www.minas-designs.com • instagram: minasdesigns

PHOTO: C. COUTAYAR

When it comes to luxury accommodation, Ataraxia Estate is second to none. More than a dream residence that meets even the highest standards of the most demanding travelers, this prestigious 7-bedroom villa is designed to the smallest detail offering royalty services and protection from indiscreet eyes. Built on a hill, only a few miles from Mykonos Town and a stone’s throw away from the world-famous Paradise beach, Ataraxia Estate will offer you a truly unique and unforgettable stay.

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Live & Love on the islan d

scan to visit site

Crete, Greece

ELEGANT...PURE...AUTHENTIC Kanalia, 84600 Mykonos, Greece +30 2289 024986 | reservations@mykonosnumberfive.com w w w. m y k o n o s n u m b e r f i v e. c o m

Contents 22 ― News

30 ― Grecian style So chic! 44 ― Editor’s choice C is for Classy 46 ― Editor’s choice The most desire items 48 ― Editor’s choice See, sun, super! 50 ― Editor’s choice Summer is here!

TRAVEL 110 ― Mykonos Α model of travel experience 118 ― Santorini Treasures waiting to be discovered 122 ― Crete Exploring new destinations 130 ― Mani Unique Beauty and Rich History 134 ― Natural pools The deep blue 138 ― Unknown Museums in Athens you should visit

WELLNESS Publisher - Managing Partner Nicholas Papavassiliou Vivi Andritsou

58 ― Kallos The ancient Greek beauty secrets

Acting Editor Vassilios Nicolaos Vitsilogiannis

62 ― Spas A Journey to harmonize mind, body and spirit

Editor Elina Giannoulopoulou

90 ― Fakes and Fasolada Why they are considered Superfoods of the World? 95 ― The Best Greek Foods

STYLE

Editor in chief Filia Mitromara

TASTE

DESIGN 142 ― Dimitris Mantikas Mykonian landscape

Advertising Manager Evgenia Chatzopoulou

68 ― Oil Superfood for skin

144 ― Greek design Take a piece of Greece with you

Photographer John Seferos

70 ― Rodo

148 ― Ceramic Art The new zen

Photo Agency Shutterstock | Istock | Usplash Published by The Media Workshop Ltd 294, Kifisias Ave & Navarinou 15232 Chalandri, Athens, Greece Tel.: +30 2161005182 Email: info.tmworkshop@gmail.com The publishers regret they cannot accept liability for error or omissions contained in this publication, however caused. The opinions and views contained in this publication are not necessarily those of the publishers. Readers are advised to seek specialist advice before acting on information contained in this publication, which is provided for general use and may not be appropriate for the readers’ particular circumstances. The ownership of trademarks is acknowledged. No part of this publication or any part of the contents thereof may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without the permission of the publishers in writing.

72 ― Medical tourism Sun, sea, therapy 82 ― What causes poor fertility? 84 Greece A major station of in vitro fertilization worldwide 86 ― Keep your spine healthy 88 ― Deviated septum Why do people avoid surgery?

152 ― Amazing Greek hotels in neoclassical buildings 162 ― Last word: Mati

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We are a Parea

magine, you feel inspired to start planning your own 2022 vacation to Greece. The clock starts ticking down and you have to decide where to go and how to amuse yourself. Your friends and family start gasping with anticipation. Will you be ready to give them the full program of the vacation?

ues and vision to make Greece the number #1 vacation spot in the world. We have Meraki (do something with love, passion, and a lot of soul) to create this magazine which is an insert in Harper’s Bazaar Arabia. We have Kefi (the spirit of joy) to live our dream in Greece together with our readers.

While this may seem slightly exciting and mildly entertaining, is this reality? Of course, it isn’t. By reading our magazine you will get challenged and well-informed about Greece and Greek hospitality. The Greek lifestyle will charm you. Greece with its thousands of islands and coastal clear waters is the destination to come for fun and recreation, and everyone who makes a living from tourism wants visitors and residents alike to enjoy the beauties of the country.

Before my farewell sentence, I would invite you to visit Greece and live the experience. Until next time you read us, have a wonderful vacation and life together with your loved ones. Greetings

A stirring blend of ancient and modern, Greece kicks off your 2022 countdown. The country has high-end services and magical destinations. Each one of a different experience to the visitor. One of you summed up Greece’s unique blend of options has everything-sea, mountains, lakes, plains, caves, cities, villages, and culture. Greece is a once-visited, must-return kind of destination. Greece Now magazine and its team carry the principles of the Greek culture which passed on from generation to generation and lasted through the centuries. We are a Parea (a group of people who gather together to enjoy friendship) who share the same val-

Vassilios Nicolaos Vitsilogiannis Acting Editor

O P E N I N G

D O H A 20 23 Kalo Livadi, Mykonos | +302289071745 | summer@solymarmykonos.com | solymarmykonos.com

NEWS

Think pink! _ This is the color that will be everywhere in the coming months! Ιt may be about a month since Maison Valentino and Pierpaolo Piccioli unveiled the house’s new collection for next fall, but everyone in the fashion world keeps talking about that «magic» moment, the pink color that dominated. For a long time, pink belongs to the shades that have monopolized our interest and we have given it the necessary space in our wardrobe, all fashionistas want to include it in their outfits. The spring period and the onset of bright colors is the ideal opportunity to try it. From shirts, blazers, outerwears and accessories you will find it in all pieces, depending on your taste and needs. Delphi silk scarf fuchsia, MIA PAPA, miapapa.com

Dopamine dressing _ 2022’s Biggest Jewelry Trends Are So Joyful. The fashion industry has made it clear that timelessness is a key element. Especially in jewelry, which are must-items to complete a set, it would be good to create all time classic collections that we can have for many years. While the industry has faced its fair share of woes thanks to lockdowns and travel restrictions, it seems that many of us are turning to jewellery – a satisfyingly forever purchase if ever there was one – while holidays and restaurants have remained frustratingly off-limits. The need for our jewellery to spark joy is stronger than ever. While the trends cycle turns more slowly in Lace ring with diamonds, gold 18kt, Christina Soubli. jewellery than in fashion, there is no denying the shift towards our desire for “dopamine dressing” to fine jewellery. www.christinasoubli.com

Eros, the God of love _ Dior’s new capsule collection is dedicated to the God of Love Inspired by Dior Cruise 2022 presented in Athens in June 2021, the house releases timeless items, such as the Lady Dior bag and the silk scarf, which with the stamp of Dior Cupidon depicting Eros - the Greek god of love acquired a romantic character for the month of February, on the occasion of Valentine’s Day. The collection -apart from the fashion pieces- also consists of an impressive notebook, a candle and a mug.

Memorable Moments

BOOKINGS ON

and Stories.. that Stay!

mgallery.accor.com

Athens Capital Center Hotel - MGallery Collection 4, Eleftheriou Venizelou Avenue & 2, Kriezotou Street, 106 71 Syntagma Square, Athens - Greece Phone: (+30) 214 444 2000 | Fax: (+30) 214 444 2003 | E-mail: HB3X8-RE@accor.com

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NEWS

Save 10 years of life _ The foods that should be on your table if you want to save 10 years of life Researchers from the University of Norway have found that by reducing meat we gain about 2 years of life, eating more vegetables increases life expectancy by 2.5 years in women and men. If we consume whole grain products then our average life increases over years, while with nuts we gain another 2 years! The earlier these changes are made in adulthood, the greater the expectation! However, it is never too late! Even if one does them at 80, one gains 3.4 years of life, according to the researchers. Of course, there are differences depending on the nutritional profile but also on the general health of the people who decide to make these changes. Unpleasant is the news for those who eat healthy, since the changes in their own expectation are not spectacular, even if they follow more closely the recommendations of researchers.

Greek Name: Πεσκανδρίτσα _ (Pehs – kahn – DREE – tsah) The traditional Greek diet is known for the simple preparation of tasty food made in Greece, which has shaped the dietary habits of Greeks from ancient times up to the present. Its main advantage is that the Greek diet is based on three principles: Variety – Moderation – Balance. A tasty fish with few bones to pick off, many Greeks enjoy peschandritsa baked in the oven with tomato and herbs. Some chefs also fry the tails of smaller animals for an alternative meze, and boil the heads of larger ones for fish soup. Ρeskandritsa saganaki pendant with Arcadia feta, dill and tomato sauce at the base, Cookoovaya, Xatzigianni Mexi 2A, Athens

Travolta: The big fish! _ A top fish restaurant, with many creative dishes especially in the raw versions In Greece more and more people know «Travolta» as one of the best fish shops in Athens, than those who remember how an actor who became a Hollywood star by dancing disco, gave his name to a hangout tied to the history of the area. From a menu that you could try for weeks until you run out, squid and fish skewers, dishes perhaps unprecedented in their kind, stand out as grilled stars, while in the pan the level goes up even more: big and small fish embrace from crust addictively crunchy and salty, but the flesh remains juicy and alive, as proof of a craft that deserves a seat at the university! Which, of course, is not a bad idea at all. Travolta Athens, 33 Arkadias & Saint Paul str, Peristeri, Athens.

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NEWS

I Love You Deeply! _ Alonnisos: Greek island set to host underwater weddings Wanting to boost its reputation as a global diving destination, Alonissos launches the «I Love You Deeply» campaign, offering a unique opportunity to those who want a wedding out of the ordinary: from this summer, you will be able to get married not just in the water of, but also below them. The island of Sporades - already a pole of attraction for those who know the beauties of the northern part of the Aegean - has found itself again in the center of international interest thanks to both the National Marine Park established there in 1992 and the formation of the ancient shipwreck of the island of Peristera model underwater museum. Given that around the latter there was already a mobility for weddings on beaches or on private yachts, the municipal authority began to think of further methods of stimulating the region’s underwater tourism, culminating in the decision behind the campaign «I Love You Deeply».

Olive Tourism _ A New Greek Travel Trend is Born Olive oil tastings, visits to the presses, themed walks and dedicated museums: olive tourism is evolving as a new travel sector centered on Greece’s greatest national product. The term «olive tourism» was first used in Spain in 2002 to describe the totality of travel experiences relating to the olive and to olive oil. In Greece, the first steps were taken around fifteen years ago and were centered around the olive harvest. Today, the notion of olive tourism covers everything from visits to olive presses and olive oil tasting sessions to spa treatments using olive-based products. The recent initiative by the Tourism Ministry to introduce a quality mark and standards for olive presses which are open to the public formalizes the development of a promising new sector.

Beauty trend _

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Μirazur Villa located in Drosia, near the charming city of Preveza, enjoys the unlimited view of the Ionian Archipelago. The villa boasts breathtaking sea views from the floor-to-ceiling windows, bedroom balconies and outdoor terrace. The fully equipped three-storey villa can accomodate up to 10 persons.

Natural and Cutting Edge The New Wave of Greek Cosmetics Natural is the new gorgeous – in its quest to give its customers a healthy, happy and rejuvenated look, the cosmetics industry in Greece is at the forefront of a return to plant-based ingredients. Greece was among the first countries to earn a reputation in the new field of natural cosmetics. Its flora provided all the ingredients the industry needed in order to create safe cosmetics with high concentrations of extracts from plants – extremely effective against a plethora of issues related to skin aging – while its scientists possessed the know-how required to compete with bigger global brands.

NEWS

DELTA restaurant _ Gastronomy - Sustainability - Culture Delta is the uppercase 4th letter of the Greek alphabet. A triangle with three sides in perfect harmony. Just like Delta restaurant. A project shaped by three principles: Gastronomy - Sustainability – Culture. A fine-dining restaurant, featuring contemporary Greek cuisine, opens its doors at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (SNFCC). With a focus on sustainability and culinary excellence, the SNFCC and Dipnosofistirion catering, with support from the Stavros Niarchos Foundation (SNF), are creating a gastronomic destination that fits the values and character of the SNFCC.

For more info and online reservations: deltarestaurant.gr The SNFCC food & beverage spots are open in strict compliance with Hellenic Public Health Organization protection measures.

Amino – Animo _ Now body and spirit have found their food! AMINO as amino acid, the structural component of proteins and muscle tissue, and ANIMO from the Latin “animus” which means spirit, soul. An award-winning instant energy drink from organic proteins of almond, rice, sunflower seed. With a natural taste of cocoa or vanilla and prebiotic inulin for better absorption and function of the intestine, Power Mix helps to strengthen the body and regulate metabolism.

The best supplements _

When we make a choice based on our intuition alone, we make the right decision in 90% of cases. Source: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences

For your health Bodyguard, Sky Premium Life Enhanced dietary supplement for a strong immune system and reduction of fatigue with Shampoo, Beta Glucanes, vitamins B12, C, D3, K2, Selenium, Zinc and Copper. MSM & Vitamin C, Sky Premium Life Dietary supplement with MSM and vitamin C, which contributes to the normal formation of collagen, for the normal function of cartilage, joints and bones. GABA, Sky Premium Life Dietary supplement with the amino acid GABA, magnesium and vitamin B6, which help in good psychological mood, relaxation and normal functioning of the nervous system.

ISSUE № 03

SUMMER 2022

ibo-Maraca creations

Style

A E S T H E T IC Q UA L I T Y. Greek fashion brands are full of instagrammable items, ideal for our trips to the islands. Find out what to wear in Greece in a list full of stylish items made by the coolest Greek designers.

HISTORY STYLE —

Grecian style: So chic!

Grecian style has been a timeless and endless source of inspiration for haute couture. Folk elements and Grecian glam have inspired numerous collections in the international fashion scene. — BY FILIA MITROMARA

s it possible to imagine drape and flow without thinking of the elegance of the Chiton – the ancient Greek garment immortalized by sculptors gracing the curves of subjects, rendered in marble? The eternal beauty of Greece has been an endless source of inspiration for fashion designers – and indeed for fashion – throughout the centuries. It’s not only the fashion styles of Ancient Greece themselves, but all of the laws of aesthetics that give such fundamental guidance – proportion, harmony, balance.

And it’s not only in the age of Ancient Greece where designers of haute couture and fine jewelry find inspiration. Every age of Greece provides inspiration – from the Minoan era through modern history. Let’s have a look at some of the highlights and the timeless gifts of beauty and style that come from Greece throughout the eras. Where designers found their inspiration Influences range from the Minoan, Mycenean, Archaic, Classical and Hellenistic periods to the Byzantine and Ottoman eras; the War of Independence is there, too, as is the 20th century, when Greek fashion began to look to the West, and the present century as well. The story of historical Greek designs in fashion starts when archaeological excavations brought ancient Greece to the spotlight and Greek influences spread across Europe and all the way to the United States. In 1903, dancer and choreographer Isadora Duncan took to wearing short white chitons and moved to Athens. Pleats and drapery featured prominently in the clothing of French couturiers Paul Poiret, Madeleine Vionnet and Madame Grès,

Nikos Engonopoulos, one of the country’s key figures of the surrealist movement, painted a beautiful woman in a dress designed by Yiannis Evangelides, with evident influence from traditional Attic bridal gowns; the windmills in the background tell us she’s on Mykonos. The year is 1938, and the occasion is the country’s first state fashion competition, featuring dresses inspired by folk culture. Engonopoulos had been hired by the magazine «La Mode Grecque» to produce illustrations of this event, which signaled the debut of Greek fashion inspired by the country’s ancient culture and of its modest entrance onto the global runway.

Τhe criteria of beauty in ancient, then classical, Greece still holds true. There have never been more beautiful representations of women.

as well as Spain’s Mariano Fortuny. The trend then returned to Greece in the form of a counter-loan. Greece already boasted a couture scene, but this was almost exclusively limited to the palace and a few wealthy individuals, as the masses continued to wear traditional vesture.

something new for daily wear. The end of the war brought the New Look that was introduced to Europe by Dior. In Greece, new designers joined the ranks of the old and together they marched into the 1950s to the tune of Europeanization and the dictates of tourism. “Island” fashion became all the rage, while drapes, pleats and folds reminiscent of the Caryatids and the statues of Athena Nike found favor, too. Old embroidery pieces were taken out of drawers and added as decorative details in new creations. This trend carried Greek fashion into the 1960s, when Yannis Tseklenis rocked the domestic scene by giving Greek pret-a-porter international resonance, just as another revolution was taking place abroad. This was

Over the next few years, ancient and folk culture began to coexist in fresh trends that were adopted by the innovative, educated and dynamic women of the emergent middle class of the 1930s. World War II interrupted this trend, instead spurring the repurposing, recycling and redesigning of clothing. The embroidered pieces of traditional costumes were cut out and put to one side for future use, while the remaining fabric was sewn into

the advent of the miniskirt, an event that signaled a complete break with the forms of the past. Greek-inspired fashion’s international heyday lasted through the ‘70s but began to wane in the ‘80s, when punk and disco inspired a wave of new designers and the elements of “Greekness” all but vanished. Greek culture as a source of inspiration didn’t return until the start of the new century.

“natural” silhouette emerging from the political upheaval of the French Revolution. According to fashion historian Lydia Edwards in the text How to Read a Dress: A Guide to Changing Fashion From the 16th to the 20th Century, “naturalness” in this context meant the use of lightweight, easy-tolaunder (and therefore hygienic) materials such as muslin, cotton, poplin, batiste, and linen. Meanwhile the drape and columnar structure of dresses took its inspiration from classical Greece and Rome and the pure white statues of antiquity. Fast forward a century later – fashion designers such as Mariano Fortuny and Madame Grès revived classicism during the early twentieth century. Trained in architecture, Grès for example, began working from the early 1920’s right up until the end of the 1950’s. Already appreciative of Ancient Greek design, Grès be-

Why do designers keep looking backward? But if fashion is all about the new, why do designers keep looking backwards, in order to look forward? We’ve seen the revival of Greek dress before – notably during and after the French Revolution at the end of the 18th century. Ostentatious dress representing the Ancient Régime and aristocracy in the form of the Robe à la Française and the mantua worn commonly at court, were shunned in favour of a new, simplified,

Myrto Anastasopoulou Myrto Anastasopoulou Studio, 12 Anagnostopoulou street, 106 73 Kolonaki, Athens, T: 213 0054957 www.myrtoanastasopoulou.com

“Ι’m suggesting going back to move forward. To create the future, you have to pay attention to the past.” k a r l l ager f eld

came synonymous with monochromatic, draped and pleated gowns all pinned by hand.

as inspiration. With a color palette of lots of creams, golds and metallics it’s a collection that easy on the eye and draws fashion connoisseurs in with its contrasting color scheme and cuts. Chiuri aimed to highlight the modern woman’s femininity and she managed to tie in history to the feminine form in this collection.

Karl Lagerfeld: Modernity of Antiquity There is some irony in a designer who famously dislikes nostalgia creating a collection inspired by an era from about 2,500 years ago. Lagerfeld’s theme for the show was everything and anything Ancient Greek – using architecture, pottery, Greek dress and decorative arts, as predominant influences throughout this collection. Lagerfeld’s garments echoed historical Greek vesture – including an assortment of garments resembling the chiton, peplos, and himation styles. Gold coins which looked freshly excavated from an archaeological dig, were used as buttons, embossed with the Chanel ‘CC’ logo. Lagerfeld’s preference for the Midas touch was also inferred through his use of laurel-leaf crowns, which were worn by gladiator-sandal-clad models. The use of the colour white in Lagerfeld’s pleated and draped fabrics instantly reminded audiences of the Greek columns found in temples such as the Parthenon. Frieze patterns depicting Athenian figures on Lagerfeld’s garments looked like artefacts now displayed within institutions such as the British and Victoria and Albert Museum.

Sophia Kokosalaki: Jean Paul Gaultier, Karl Lagerfeld and Dolce & Gabbana followed The talented Greek designer who passed away early at the age of 46. Her unique point of view, elegant style and technical sophistication are encapsulated in a timeless dress, a piece that could just as well have been made thousands of years ago. Kokosalaki was a modern designer who showcased her “Greekness” in much of her work. It was her example that Jean Paul Gaultier, Karl Lagerfeld and even Dolce & Gabbana followed, creating entire collections inspired by ancient Greece and local vesture from the 18th and 19th centuries. Also, Mary Katrantzou, drawn from her Greek background. She has often used Greek themes (including now-defunct drachma notes and Minoan symbols) for her signature digital prints.

Dior’s Cruise 2022 A runway filled with ancient history, Dior’s Cruise 2022 collection, titled “Erratum” by Maria Grazia Chiuri at the Panathenaic Stadium, which hosted the 1896 Olympics in Athens and that usually fits 400 guests saw the creative director’s signature sartorial storytelling of the feminine form, with Greek archaeology

Made in Greece While the fashion industry continues its perpetual search for the next big thing, an increasing number of local designers and brands are incorporating a series of neo-Greek chic elements into their creative identities. They are also adding a “Made in Greece” dimension, a sign of pride and persistence during tough times.

STYLE

RIA LABRINOUDI A DESIGNER WHO LOVES SHOES AND KNOWS HOW TO MAKE STYLISH AND COMFORTABLE ONES, HIGH-HEELS INCLUDED!

ia Labrinoudi studied Economics, got her MBA, and worked in the banking sector for a decade, before deciding to follow her true calling: shoe design and shoemaking. “I have been in love with shoes my whole life,” she asserts. “I believe wearing extraordinary shoes can transform a basic outfit into something special and glamorous.” To learn the craft she worked next to some of the best Greek shoe designers and shoemakers. After hand-making many pairs herself, she travelled to Paris, Milan and New York City for further research on craftsmanship and materials. Her eponymous brand was launched in 2018, to the critics’ and public’s acclaim. In sync with her strong sensitivity to animals’ welfare and the environment, since 2021, her firm has been focusing on “alternative leather”. Ensuring the same degree of comfort and luxury, these high-tech new materials facilitate the application of the latest fashion trends – and also do good for the planet. Along with her team, Ria Labrinoudi crafts shoes that fit perfectly, while simultaneously being exceedingly stylish and chic.

_ 10 Charitos Str, Kolonaki, Athens Instagram: @rialabrinoudi www.rialabrinoudi.com

C R U E LT Y F R E E

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more I learned about the secrets of precious stones, the more enthralled I became”, she declares. This fascination gave birth to Anapnoe: Meaning “breath” in Greek, the brand features jewellery creations made with semi-precious stones and one-ofa-kind elements. Most pieces cannot be replicated and are therefore absolutely unique. As original and diverse as their wearers – Anapnoe pieces address teenagers and grand dames, alike. “My goal from the onset was to create jewellery for all ages and budgets”, Fofi stresses. Drawing inspiration from just about everything – travel, books, artworks, an intense sensation or life’s myriad everyday adventures –Fofi designs for the bold types: All those who dare to take risks, experiment with their looks and carve out their own, individualised style, rather than just follow the dictates of fashion. And it doesn’t matter how old or young they are. “We have the Mixlets collection which is aimed exclusively at teenagers, with markedly affordable prices, and respectively we have collections with precious stones geared to a more sophisticated, affluent

STYLE

ANAPNOE DRAWING INSPIRATION FROM JUST ABOUT EVERYTHING AND LIFE’S MYRIAD EVERYDAY ADVENTURES, FOFI DIMOPOULOU DESIGNS FOR ALL THE BOLD TYPES.

former marketeer and entrepreneur, Fofi Dimopoulou first engaged with jewellery creation when she got pregnant some 22 years ago. Bedridden, as she was for four months, she started handcrafting trinkets for her friends – which enjoyed a thoroughly enthusiastic reception. Fofi took a seven-year break from work to raise her two children, but jewellery design was already imprinted upon her. “I wanted to create some things for myself, so I started visiting various trade shows and exhibitions. The

Anapnoe, which means “breath” in Greek, is a brand that features jewellery creations as original and diverse as their wearers

clientele. We also cater to customised special orders which remain invariably confidential”, she remarks. All jewellery is accompanied by a guarantee certificate for the stones employed. “This is something very important for our customers and for our company, alike”, she asserts, adding that she feels “honoured” every time she sees someone wearing Anapnoe pieces. Nowadays, Fofi collaborates with her 21-year-old daughter, Irini Pachiyanni – who manifested her exceptional talent when she was still in the last year of high school. Designed exclusively by Irini, the 2022 Anapnoe lucky charm, became an instant hit and was completely sold out. A first-year student at the University of Paris, Irini is now responsible for Anapnoe’s upcoming collection. “Inspired by the fabled cubist statues of Alexander Archipenko, I created a complete collection with simple, minimal lines in silver and precious stones which will be launched in May for the summer of 2022. I feel very excited about this undertaking that marks the commencement of my studies in Strategic Design and Management at the University. I just hope that the public will love it, as much as I do”, Irini exclaims. _ Instagram: @anapnoe.gr www.anapnoe.gr

STYLE

IRENE ANGELOPOULOS IRENE ANGELOPOULOS DESIGNS PORTRAY FEMININITY IN ITS FINEST VERSION. HER UTMOST RESPECT TO FEMALE NATURE REFLECTS ON HER CREATIONS OF HANDMADE EMBROIDERIES, RED CARPET GOWNS AND DREAMLIKE BRIDAL DRESSES.

aute Couture is only as powerful as the emotions they are bound by and Irene Angelopoulos is adept at the art of creating expressive designs. Dedicated and creative she is a Sociologist and also has a master’s degree in MSc in Management of Business Innovation & Technology. After completing her studies, she decided to drive into the world of fashion and follow her dream. As the voice of Greek charm echoed in every piece, we were left in awe of her collaborations all over the globe (Greece, Lebanon, Egypt, Saint Tropez, Cyprus, and Los Angeles). Her rapid growth is worth admiration while she started her brand only five years ago and has already won an award for her creations which she has devoted to abused women. Vogue Italia magazine has listed her after this award in the young talents category. Irene Angelopoulos creations have been adored by many Hollywood stars and have been worn at red carpet events, Oscars and Grammy Awards. The designer has done many fashion shows in Greece and she was one of the elite international designers who held a fashion show at the prestigious Ritz Hotel during Paris Fashion Week. Her last fashion show was in Greece at Zappeion gardens where she launched her new ‘road-tripping to freedom s/s ‘22 collection’. An astonished audience showed love and adoration for her high-end haute couture creations in the packed venue of her fashion show. Rich in crystals and feathers, her creations were true to her motto: “You were born to sparkle and that’s what my designs are made for!

_ Instagram: @irene_angelopoulos_couture www.ireneangelopoulos.com

EDITOR’S CHOICE

C is for Classy Need style inspiration? Inspiration from Grecian style can help you find a look that is unique. Learn how to find fashion inspiration, and use a mood board to develop your own style.

Handmade Santorini sandals exclusively designed for Aesthet, by Ancient Greek Sandals in collaboration with the jewelry company Ilias Lalaounis. www.aesthet.com

A classy bracelet inspired by the ancient Greek meander symbol, which exudes a sense of aristocracy. www.dimitrios-exclusive.gr

Handmade Shoes and handmade clutch, Ria Lambrinoudi www.rialabrinoudi.com

Zeus + Dione silk dress in shirt style in a straight line with mao neckline, matching detachable belt and silk, jacquard stripes. www.aesthet.com

EDITOR’S CHOICE Antonia Karra, "Temptation" ring sterling silver gold plated. www.antoniakarra.com

Bracelet decorated with gold-plated crown that tie Swarovski crystals perfectly. www.dimitrios-exclusive.gr Antonia Karra, "Cheryl" earrings sterling silver gold plated with reconstructed turquoise stones. www.antoniakarra.com

Gold 18Kt, Dentelles Collection, Christina Soubli. www.christinasoubli.com

The most desired items

Pisces Rings- Starry Night Collection, 18k Rose Gold, Rose cut diamonds, Diamond carat 0,36 ctw. www.myrtoanastasopoulou.com

18ct white gold bracelet with 25.30k, white diamonds. www.vourakis.gr

Style is always judged in detail. With these jewels in your collection, you can create the most elegant sets.

18ct white gold necklace with 17k. rubies and 31.55k, white diamonds. www.vourakis.gr

There is no better way to complete a set than jewelry. They are characteristic elements that will give the necessary shine to the image but also the classy aesthetics that we all need. The jewelry collection should be characterized by timelessness and there should be designs that can accompany you for many years. From earrings, necklaces, bracelets and rings, the options are many, depending on your character and tastes.

STYLE

CHRISTIANA KAFA CHRISTIANA KAFA CREATES HIGH END JEWELRY THAT AIMS TO HIGHLIGHT THE MOST FEMININE SIDE OF EVERY WOMAN.

alf Greek, half Cypriot, Christiana Kafa made an entrance to the world of jewellery in 2014. Though she had studied Marketing and Communications and had worked in various multinational companies in Athens, jewellery design had always been her true passion – and it eventually prevailed. In 2019 she won the first prize in the “A Jewel Made In Greece” awards, in the Precious Eternities category. Christiana has also been designing the limited edition bracelet for the campaign against breast cancer for Madame Figaro CY, for five consecutive years. In 2021 she launched her two new 14k and 18k collections, “Exartisi” and “Afipnisi”, respectively. “Afipnisi is the awakening, metaphorically, the return to reality, said of someone who is attached to the dream world”, she explains. The choice of names was far from coincidental. Undoubtedly, the “star” of the show was the new clasp, which uses an innovative feature, that’s pioneering on a worldwide scale. Christiana Kafa finds inspiration in everything surrounding her, from the most evident to the most well-hidden elements. Her main aim is to create minimalistic designs, widely influenced by her urban surroundings. A kind of jewellery that not only creates an illusion of a moving sensation but also a kind of jewellery that doesn’t fade over time and can be worn on

any occasion. “My main goal is for the brand to become global, to reach every metropolis in the world”, she asserts. Her beautifully crafted pieces capture the dynamism that lies behind the essence of simplicity. They are timeless, designed to elevate any kind of style and ready to take over the world. _ instagram: @christianakafa_jewelry www.christianakafa.com

“Afipnisi is the awakening, metaphorically, the return to reality.”

EDITOR’S CHOICE

Sea, sun, super! These fashion items will make the summer holiday style stand out from the ordinary.

Cool air, clear blue waters, white houses, cobbled streets. A scene taken from dreams for a vacation on an island in Greece. A basic condition for them to take place is to add must -have pieces to your collection that will help you create the most stylish, summer outfits.

Ariel Deer is made of textured fine fabric connected with a plastic ring on the sides, Lookseri www.lookseri.com

Maxi printed dress with buttons, Chicard www.chicard.gr

Green Bel-Air Bag, Ibo Maraca. From 100% handmade Toquilla green straw crochet with handmade straw flower and straw fringes. www.ibo-maraca.com Kimono dress, from resort collection by Sofia Karagiani www.alisahne.com

Mirabella mini tie-dye dress, Christian Zen www.christianzencouture.com

A sophisticated city hotel, inspired by the spirit of ancient Athenian wisdom. A place that encapsulates the vibe of contemporary Athens.

A luxurious hospitality experience, signed by Autograph Collection Hotels™. Enjoy an unforgettable stay at Academias Hotel.

3 8 AKAD I M I AS STR. & O MI RO U STR. , 106 72 AT H ENS , GREEC E T: +3 0 210 3 6 70000 | F: + 3 0 210 3 6 38 91 1 SA L E S - M A R K E T I N G @ACA D E M I A S H O T E L . C O M | W W W. ACA D E M I A S H O T E L . C O M | I N S TA G R A M : @ A C A D E M I A S H OT E L

EDITOR’S CHOICE

Summer essentials We zoom in on the best designs we see all in Greece and we suggest you do the same for a style that will give you dozens of compliments every day.

"Scorpion" high heels in white and silver inspired by the "one thousand museum" building by Zaha Hadid! www.sophiavictoratou.com

Impressive clothes with a happy mood dominate, from vivid colors and prints to bold silhouettes, such as bubble dresses, T-shirts with volume, many cutouts and extremely low-rise pants and skirts. Accessories, bags, shoes and more-is-more aesthetics in jewelry.

Handmade silver necklace with zircon and ring. www.anapnoe.gr

Juliette Blouse with loose raglan sleeved blouson with elastic closures on sleeves. Mandarin colar, 100% silk twill. www.koseresort.com

The Meridith Dress from Armelle SS2022 by Loukia Kyriakou. www.loukiakyriakou.com

Gold 18K “Electra” all around white diamonds www.christianakafa.com

ISSUE № 03

SUMMER 2022

Anemos Resort, Crete

Wellness

DI S C OV E R YO U R H E A LT H O P T IO N S . Greece possesses a plethora of qualities and inherent advantages for international health tourists. You’ll find a wide variety of healthcare services available, whether it’s a routine check-up, or very specific surgical procedures.

Minimum Intervention Maximum Effect® Welcome to SYMMETRIA, a step closer to a beautiful new you.

Nikos Dr. Nikolaos Metaxotos MD. PhD Plastic Surgeon Founder SYMMETRIA

LEADING THE WORLD OF BEAUTY AND HEALTH SINCE 2005 BEST CLINIC AWARD WINNER

WINNER

EUROPEAN QUALITY AWARD WINNER

ATHENS

ANTIBES

LONDON

ZURICH

SYMMETRIA

SYMMETRIA SPOT

Clinique DEL MAR

ION KAVOUNI LONDON

Praxisklinik Urania AG

SAUDI ARABIA

BAHRAIN

VOULIAGMENI

BARCELONA

SYMMETRIA

Divani Apollon Palace & Thalasso

Instituto Javier de Benito

www.symmetria.com

hessaloniki, the second-largest city in Greece, is home to one of the most pioneering pharmaceutical laboratories in Europe. Founded in 2015 by Spyros Nikolaidis and Olga Akrivou, Physis Laboratory’s laboratory creates galenic, phytotherapeutic and homeopathic medicines with a view of consolidating personalized therapeutic treatment. Coming from a long line of pharmacists, Spyros is an experienced pharmacist and accomplished homeopathic practitioner. A business administration graduate, Olga, on the other hand, had to meet Spyros to realize her perennial dream – helping to augment her fellow human beings’ health and well-being. “Guided by our mutual love for nature we succeeded in changing the goals and scope of the classic Greek pharmacy, by incorporating bespoke, natural formulations that work”, they state. “Our main goal was to showcase the pharmacist’ profession – which is no other than preparing medicines. The pharmacist is not just a vendor”. Certified according to the strictest EU quality standards, their model cleanroom laboratory executes prescriptions that are tailored to each patient’s needs. “If we go back to the history of galenic medicine, we will see that Galenos himself was modifying the dosages according to the patient’s profile and temperament. This is our philosophy too”, they emphasize. A prime example of their work is the best-selling AMINO ANIMO Organic Protein range, made from certified organic natural raw materials, with no animal testing. “In light of our increasingly demanding lifestyles, we sought the ingredient that the modern human needs to be physically and mentally active. Following years of research, we came to the conclusion that this is protein”. Five years of painstaking laboratory testing later, the AMINO ANIMO organic proteins were introduced to the publics’ and health and nutrition experts’ enthusiastic acclaim. These instant energy boosters cover a significant part of our daily nutrient needs and have secured a number of prestigious awards and distinctions including Vegan Society’s global certification.

WELLNESS

A FORCE OF NATURE OFFERING A WIDE RANGE OF PERSONALIZED AND ALTERNATIVE NATURAL TREATMENTS, PHYSISLABORATORY.COM HELPS PEOPLE FROM AROUND THE GLOBE FIND EFFECTIVE, BESPOKE THERAPEUTIC SOLUTIONS TO A BROAD ARRAY OF CONDITIONS AND NEEDS.

Kallos: The ancient Greek beauty secrets

BEAUTY —

You can still use today at home! The secrets of ancient Greek grooming included regular exercise, the use of essential oils, and even natural decoloration. — BY FILIA MITROMARA

t is true that beauty in antiquity was considered one of the main virtues of women and had developed a strong relationship between mathematics and beauty. The ancient Greeks, having at their disposal only natural products, discovered beneficial properties in some of the strangest ingredients. With imagination they created the most beneficial beauty recipes for the skin. Some of them can even be easily applied today!

beehives, but none of them are more renowned around the world than thyme honey. Honey, due to polysaccharides, attracts and absorbs the water molecules from the surrounding environment, acting like a sponge. In addition to its hydro-retentive properties, honey has been clinically proven to accelerate the biosynthesis and maturation of collagen fibers, so it improves skin elasticity and roughness and provides a velvety texture. Furthermore, thyme honey has a high content of vitamins, amino acids, and flavonoids, so it provides antioxidant protection and nourishes dry skin areas. One of the most common Grecian mask preparations is to mix olive oil and honey. Honey is one of the most naturally antibacterial ingredients while olive oil is super healing. DIY: Before your bath, place 1/4 cup of honey in a short jar or bowl (adding a small amount of warm water to the honey to make the honey more spreadable). Mix 1/4 [cup] extra-virgin olive oil in with the honey. Apply with a clean paintbrush or makeup brush to your face. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes, and remove with a washcloth.

Cosmetics like kosmetikos The word cosmetics is actually a Greek word, kosmetikos, meaning the awareness of harmony, organisation and tranquillity. The word kosmetikos originated in the 17th century, so these beauty rituals have been around at least that long. Almond oil Almond oil for hair growth Ancient Greek women used almond oil on the hair as well as on their skin. Use of almond oil in ancient Greece symbolized hope and patience. Almond oil is known to provide utmost hydration. This quality is due to the presence of palmitic, oleic and linoleic acids. Almond oil also serves to be a good source of vitamin E and K. It reduces hair fall and provides strength right from the hair roots. DIY: Before bath, apply almond oil in your hair, leave in for 20 minutes and then take a shower.

Salt Scrub Ancient Greeks used Mediterranean Sea salt mixed with olive oil to scrub and exfoliate their dry, sun-exposed bodies. DIY: Mix equal parts Epsom salt and olive oil and rub on your elbows and body parts while you soak in the bath. Let the mixture remain in your tea bath soak to provide extra detoxifying and soothing properties.

Honey Mask Numerous varieties of honey are produced in Greek

Blonde hair symbolized beauty. The men in particular seem to have devised natural methods of decoloration, using vinegar, lemon juice and saffron to look like the blonde Achilles and other famous heroes of Greek mythology.

Yogurt for peel Yogurt is a natural form of lactic acid, so it’s a natural AHA peel. Ancient Greeks used one of their most common foods, yogurt, to dissolve dead skin and tighten the pores. However, yogurt is part of daily routine. For hundreds of years, it’s been the most well-known remedy that Greek mothers and grandmothers turn to for sunburn relief. DIY: Add a tablespoon of olive oil to every four tablespoons of Greek yogurt and apply it onto the face for 10 minutes. Your skin may tingle; these are the natural AHAs at work. Remove with a warm washcloth.

Pomegranate The pomegranate has been used throughout history as a symbol of humanity’s most fundamental beliefs and desires, including life and death, rebirth and eternal life, fertility and marriage, abundance and prosperity. Homer refers to the pomegranate breaking, a tradition that has survived until today due to the fruit’s association with life, fertility, passion, and power. The pomegranate’s extract is a rich source of tannins; anthocyanins; vitamins A, C, and E; and minerals. It contains three times the antioxidant properties of red wine or green tea, so it’s effective in combating the free radicals that cause premature aging of skin cells. It also has significant astringent properties due to its tannins content. As a result, it tightens the pores and strengthens the skin epidermis, thus being ideal for oily and combination skin. DIY: Just mix pomegranate extract with oil and apply in your hands at night.

4 Herbal bath Ancient Greeks used dried flowers and herbs in their baths. It helped to detoxify the skin, mind, and muscles. DIY: At home, grab your unused tea bags sitting in the back of your cupboard and throw them in a warm, steamy bath. Take a 20-minute soak. The tea will energize your cells. Look for green tea; it’s a great antioxidant.

ESSENTIAL SKINCARE TIPS

Olive Oil Ancient Greeks used their native olive tree for everything, including to hydrate and moisturize skin and hair. Olive oil was called liquid gold by Homer, and it had an almost mythical status in ancient Greece. Ancient women of Crete used it for their hair, face, and body as it’s a natural source of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants. It nourishes skin deeply while also locking in moisture, preventing transepidermal water loss and restoring elasticity to maintain youthful skin that is instantly hydrated, refreshed, and softened. DIY: Put a small amount of olive oil into your hand and lightly press it onto your face,» instructs Hewett. «Olive is full of omega acids and tocopherols that heal and nourish the skin.

Follow the below tips to attain a completely healthy skin such as those of Greek women: Eat healthy and nutritious meals. A Mediterranean diet promotes good skin health. Follow a 3-meals-a-day habit. Breakfast and lunch should be light while dinner should be the largest meal of the day. Go for a walk after dinner daily. This helps in digestion. Include fruits such as pears, figs and apples in your daily diet. Follow a skin care regime that involves cleansing, exfoliating, toning and moisturizing.

Alisahne is the trace left by the touch of the sea and the “made in Greece” brand definitely leaves its traces on those women who love beautiful and quality clothing.

STYLE

ALISAHNE RESORT COLLECTIONS COLOURFUL, BOLD AND ENVIRONMENTALLY CONSCIOUS, THE COLLECTIONS OF SOFIA KARAGIANNI BURST WITH CREATIVE ENERGY, CONFIDENCE, EROTICISM AND HARMONY.

rawing on her strong management background, seven years ago she launched ALISAHNE Resort Collections thereby realising a long-standing dream. “Energized by the magic of the Greek summer, the sea, the sun, the sand, the special feeling of the thin layer of salt on the skin during a lovely beach ramble, I felt an imperative urge to express myself. Named after the salt dust, Alisahne celebrates the versatile nature of women, both seductive and pure, strong and tender alike”, Sofia asserts. Her collections are paying homage to the female figure and aura. “Swimwear is the perfect outfit for the hot months, while at the same time, with the right combination, can also work in all sorts of circumstances, on different social occasions".

Instagram: @alisahne_official_page www.alisahne.com

Spas: A Journey to harmonize mind, body and spirit WELLNESS —

Several spa classes introduce you to their magical world. Choose the one that suits you best. — BY FILIA MITROMARA

pa therapy is certainly not new to Greece. Thousands of years ago, Greeks were already well acquainted with the many pleasures and vital benefits of curative hot and mineral springs, of seawater rich in salts and iodine and of therapies involving the inhalation, imbibing or bodily application of herbal and flower essences. They were aware of oil massages, medicinal diets, healing music, and the role of physical exercise in health.

tive treatments that promise endless moments of relaxation to the lucky guests who are looking for the most ideal conditions of rejuvenation during their holidays. In the areas of tourist spas usually become the first acquaintance of most of us with the magical dimension of water.

Spa means «Salus per Aquam», meaning «health through water». Health that has to do not only with good physical condition, but mainly with the mental well-being to which the precious flow of water leads and not only. Here the spa categories will you find in Greece and the Greek islands.

Destination spa This is the ultimate spa experience in the most beautiful parts of the world. The destination spa is the new «hymn» to wellness and is addressed to the truly initiated in the secrets of well-being. The daily life of these places revolves exclusively around physical and mental well-being with healthy eating programs, spa treatments, beauty treatments, sports activities and meditation training courses for a healthier lifestyle.

Hotel / Resort Spa When a hotel demands our respect and the designation «luxury», it must definitely include comprehensive spa services. The spa facilities in the hotels and tourist resorts offer a wide variety of highly attrac-

The crème de la crème of spas They are the choice of those who are well aware of the beneficial effects of the spa on the body and mind and have absolutely no problem spending an entire fortune to enjoy the most exclusive right now.

The recognized elite of spas is selected with the strictest criteria and combines the dream location with the luxurious amenities and the most hard to find spa services with the knowledge and experience of the best professionals of the kind, under conditions of absolute privacy, far from even the most discreet looks.

THERAPEUTIC BENEFITS OF HYDROTHERAPY

Hydrotherapy refers to the application of water as a therapeutic agent. The beneficial effect of water on recovery is known from the father of medicine Hippocrates. Hippocrates centuries ago, used immersions in hot or cold water to treat various ailments such as muscle spasms, paralysis, rheumatism and arthritis.

Living in a Spa The new trend combines investments in the real estate market with the lifestyle of the spa. The new option enables the purchase of a house built in an exclusive location of idyllic beauty where state-of-the-art spa facilities of special claims have been constructed. The new trend has reached Greece as well.

• Promotes muscle relaxation. • Reduces sensitivity to pain. • Increases the ease of movement of the joint by improving and maintaining the trajectory of the rigid joints. • Special therapeutic exercises can be started faster by speeding up recovery time and preventing complications. • Increases muscle strength in cases of excessive weakness. • Reduces gravitational forces (initial mobilization). • Improves peripheral and lymphatic circulation thus contributing to the absorption of edema and hematomas. • Improves body kinesthesia and torso stability. • Improves the patient’s morale and self-confidence (psychologically). • Helps to achieve balance and improves neuromuscular fitting facilitating functional rehabilitation and independence of the patient.

Escape from everyday life A visit to the Day or the Salon Spa during the day is a simple as well as a flexible way to relax and release from tension and stress. The most valuable hour of the 24-hour includes soothing massage, beauty masks and rejuvenating treatments that restore the lost calmness of body and mind. Mobile phones and anything else that can disturb the peace of guests

Drink water before and after. Water enhances the benefits of detoxification and rejuvenation.

are prohibited in the day spa areas. The heavenly setting requires only soft music, scented candles and abstract decoration. Medical Spa This type of spa operates under the constant supervision of the most specialized professionals in aesthetic medicine. The environment is quite rem-

5 BEST TREATMENTS YOU MUST TRY

Acupressure: It is a therapeutic massage that is achieved with deep but gentle pressure of the fingers on specific points - key parts of the body, releasing the blocked energy. It relaxes the muscles and the tension that accumulates there, while it also relieves physical pain. Anatripsis: Anatripsis means rub and elevate. Monastic body ritual with laurel and juniper. This trilogy is performed with two therapists simultaneously massaging the head and foot soles. Continue massaging the rest of the body while applying warm pads. Complete with a body mask in a special cocoon all the oils and herbal mixtures. Serapian Massage: Moderate pressure massage in combination with reflexology inspired by Hippocrates, a Greek physician of the classical period. Olympian Athletic massage: Traditional therapeutic massage of deep pressure, with techniques that were applied in ancient Greece during the Olympic Games and were performed by the ancient healers «pedotribes». This unique deep pressure massage is applied using techniques and methods as preserved from ancient Greek texts. Salt Glow: It is an exfoliation of the upper layer of dead skin cells throughout the body, with a slight stimulating effect. What is special is that it is made with sea salt with trace elements of minerals mixed with hot oil for massage. Deeply moisturizes the skin, while leaving it glowing and soft. After a series of relaxing treatments, Salt Glow is the best treatment for finishing.

iniscent of a doctor’s office decorated with a view, implying that what is happening in here is clearly «clinical». The most med spas provide Botox surgeries, photolysis and laser hair removal, while the more specialized ones have the necessary equipment and scientific staff to perform plastic surgeries. Of course, massage services and classic rejuvenation treatments could not be missing as spas, but the reason for the existence of med spas is specific, hence the permanent presence of nurses and doctors.

STYLE

CHRISTIANZEN FOUNDED BY SIDSEL CHRISTIANSEN, CHRISTIANZEN IS A MOTHER/DAUGHTERS' LUXURY RESORTWEAR BRAND, REFLECTING THEIR FAMILY VALUES AND THEIR LOVE FOR GREECE.

couple of decades ago, Danish born Sidsel moved to Greece, started a family, and translated her passion for travel and interior design into beautifully and consciously crafted resort creations sold worldwide. ChristianZen is an ethical lifestyle brand featuring a collection of exquisite, timeless pieces that balance understated elegance with artisanal flair. “We want to create a brand with purpose, authenticity and consciousness. This is exactly why we are always trying to explore ways to become more sustainable. All our garments are handmade in small workshops around Greece, produced by local artisans with care and attention to detail”, Sidsel explains. Producing only small quantities that are made to last, ChristianZen is the antithesis of fast fashion. Crafted from 100% natural fabrics, like the super-light greek woven cotton gauze, her clothes are “one-size” which means they perfectly fit all body types. With the aid of Sidsel’s two daughters, the label recently expanded with the opening of an atelier and Concept Store in the leafy Northern suburbs of Athens. Enjoy shopping or browsing through their treasures while sipping tea amid an enchanting garden!

_ www.christianzencouture.com

We want to create a brand with purpose, authenticity and consciousness.

Enjoying some time for yourself alone will improve both your physical and emotional health.

Many people confuse med spas with medical, others think it’s exactly the same thing. However, medical spas are essentially different from meds, as they focus mainly on mental harmony and secondarily on improving physical condition. The existence of medical aims at the rejuvenation of the soul and the substantial reduction of stress, through the contact with alternative philosophies but also views of the classical medicine of the West. People who visit the spa learn to balance the body with their spirit and mind, while the goal of therapists is to

introduce their students to the secrets of longevity. Mobile Spa This is the most common and familiar to most side of the spa. «Mobile» spas are easily and quickly transported by professionals, wherever needed. The most common category of mobile spa includes cosmetics and equipment for manicures, pedicures, massage, facial cleansing, in short, all the daily habits imposed first by hygiene and then by the aesthetics of women and now men.

DON’T MISS WATER BATH WITH CARE OF MAGNESIUM & CALCIUM Exfoliation with mineral scrub and use of a whirlpool bath enriched with magnesium where it helps with calcium deficiency and improves muscle strengthening. This rich in calcium and magnesium treatment has a great analgesic and relaxing effect. Magnesium is required in over 300 metabolic functions of the body daily for the well-being of our body and especially for our nervous system. Calcium is the most abundant element in our body. There is an increased need for children and people over the age of 50 - especially in post-menopausal cases. DETOXIFYING WITH GREEK AROMATIC HERBS Traditional bath with Greek aromatic herbs for a natural deep cleansing and hydration. Exfoliating with olive oil and salt, bath herbs, soda, chamomile, dittany and sage, hydration with yogurt and honey.

STYLE

KOSE RESORTWEAR THE ENVIRONMENTALLY SAVVY FASHION DESIGNER IOANNIS KOSELOGLOU USES ORGANIC FABRICS AND ECO MATERIALS.

oannis Koseloglou comes from a family with a long tradition in clothes. His deeply entrenched love for textiles and prints led him to London and Paris, where he worked with high-end brands like Alexander McQueen, Kenzo and Bally. But after several fruitful collaborations, he felt he needed a restart. “I wanted to communicate my own vision of what Greek fashion should be saying. The focus was on resort wear from the onset since summers in Greece last forever and are firmly embedded in our country’s culture”. His long-standing dream was realised in 2018 with the launching of Kose resort ware: An ethical luxury womenswear brand that aims to elevate the female form through elegant and luxurious fabrics. With an emphasis on sustainability, all garments are made with eco-friendly materials, according to the highest quality standards by local artisans. Kose’s characteristically bold prints lie at the core of the brand’s identity.

_ instagram: @kose_resort www.koseresort.com

“My goal is to translate classic Greek elements into modern fashion lingo”.

BEAUTY

Oil: Superfood for skin With extra virgin olive oil you can make these homemade recipes for perfect skin and beautiful hair. Apart from being an emollient, moisturizing agent, Greek olive oil is also an excellent antiseptic agent that fights the bacteria.

Greek olive oil is the protagonist of the Mediterranean diet, however it deserves a place in your beauty routine. What does olive oil offer to your skin?

Polyphenols: Powerful antioxidants that offer effec-

Ηydration of hands

tive protection against photoaging and free radicals. Omega-3 fatty acids: They nourish the skin and give it elasticity and durability. Vitamin A: Stimulates cell regeneration, prevents wrinkles and smoothens existing. Vitamin E: It has a strong antioxidant effect, prevents aging, protects from harmful sunlight and gives softness to the skin. Vitamin K: Protects against aging and fights dark circles under your eyes. Squalene: Moisturizing substance that is also found in the natural sebum of the skin. Neutralizes free radical roots and protects the skin from UV. Minerals and trace elements: Strengthen the defense of the skin and scalp.

Moisturize your dry and dehydrated hands and nails with a natural treatment, which strengthens them by protecting from future damage. • 7 tbsp olive oil • 7 tbsp calendula oil • 10 drops of lavender essential oil Pour the ingredients into a spray bottle and shake well. Spray your hands and gently massage.

Foot Scrub We know just the trick for super soft and non-cracked heels. • 1/4 cup olive oil • 1/4 cup fresh coffee grounds • 1/4 cup salt • 1/2 banana Mix olive oil, fresh coffee grounds and salt in a bowl and apply to your feet. Gently place the crashed banana on top of the first layer and wait for up to 10 minutes. Time to scrub away! Repeat a few times a week and your feet will be smooth and island-ready.

Makeup Remover Prepare your own homemade olive oil makeup remover, using Greek olive oil. Here’s how: • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil • 2 tbsp rose water • 2 tbsp filtered water Simply combine the ingredients in a bottle or a small jar and use a cotton pad to apply. Be gentle around the eyes and you’ll be makeup-free and refreshed in no time.

STYLE

LOOKSERI EVA FRAGOU ADDRESSES DYNAMIC, CONFIDENT WOMEN WHO DO NOT SET LIMITS ON THEIR DESIRES

rowing up in Greece, Eva Fragou was surrounded by all shades of blue – and this made a lasting impression on her aesthetic. Her love of water sports took her around the globe – and these travels made her realize that the only outfit she ever needs is a swimming costume. “I was chasing the waves, and practically living on the beach 24/7”, she declares. A fashion-forward, style aficionado, Eva was quick to identify a gap in the market: “There were no surf-style swimsuits in Greece, so I set out to create the just perfect bikini: One that is stylish, sexy and functional but also ethically manufactured”, she explains. What started as a hobby, flourished into a successful business. Deriving its name from a playful pun, the Lookseri brand features a hand-curated collection of luxury beachwear with trademark minimal, tropical and ethnic motifs. Seamlessly fusing detailed tailoring, custom prints and fine Italian recycled fabrics, Eva’s creations showcase the female body at its finest. Whether worn by Hailey Baldwin Bieber or the girl next door, the Lookseri items look good and feel even better. _ www.lookseri.com

Inspired by the beach lifestyle and culture, the Lookseri creations aim to empower their wearers

BEAUTY «Rodon» is a sweet aroma and, at the same time, intense. It has, as a base, the rose, but it also leaves you with a light wine feeling.

Have you ever wondered how the first perfume smells in antiquity? The first fragrance, the Rose of Aphrodite (or «Rodon»), inspired by the imposing figure and insurmountable charm of the Goddess that became synonymous with eternal beauty, gave a unique sensory revival of the ancient world to the Archaeological Museum and its visitors. Based on fractions of information provided by Linear B tablets used for record keeping during the Mycenaean Period in relation to the ingredients ordered for the palace’s perfumers, the journey in the universe of experimental archaeology led to the first of the scents, the seductive Rose of Aphrodite. Inspired by the majestic image and captivating allure of the Goddess that became a symbol of eternal beauty, the scent was revived remaining loyal to the ingredients and methods of ancient perfumers and presented to the public.

The Rose and the lab Rose, an aromatic oil of prehistoric times that was re-made by the company Korres, travels us for the first time in the past through… smell. The Korres lab looked into sources that spread through centuries; Linear B tablets, recipes found in the works of Dioscorides and information on ingredients and methods from writings of Theophrastus, as well as later studies. Wild olive oil from Crete, cyperus from Amorgos island -a widespread weed with aromatic root that thrives close to aquatic ecosystems-, coriander fruit, sage leaves, wool and wine from grapes of the Peloponnese; these are the ingredients that were mixed through stypsis, filtering and colouring to create Sage and Coriander ancient scents in what proved to be a challenging process, largely dependent on experimentation, yet a magical journey of a lifetime.

Τhe Rose of Aphrodite

Rose, Coriander and Sage – one dimensional, primordial fragrances that stand in their golden niches in the museum’s exhibition space, pour the magic of the ancient world into today, as it was revived in a contemporary lab, with the original raw ingredients; staying as close as possible to the methods of perfumers of antiquity, unveiling an unknown chemistry of natural ingredients to today’s scientists and re-confirming the timeless appeal and value of the concept of Beauty in any of its countless aspects.

Did you know that the scent of antiquity is in the National Archaeological Museum?

STYLE

CHICARD THE FIRM’S YOUNGER ARTISTIC DIRECTOR, TONIA TSAMI, BRINGS A RENEWED ELEGANCE TO THE HOUSE

esigned and produced in Athens, Greece, this family-run brand is addressed to active and sophisticated women of every age and shape. Striving for a refined, yet youthful, look that works both in business meetings and the mocktails that follow, Chicard celebrates femininity in all its manifestations. Committed to evolving its style according to the zeitgeist of the 2020s, Chicard has now placed the new generation on the helmet. The firm’s younger artistic director, Tonia Tsami, who succeeded her mother, Anna Sfakianaki, in running the label, brings a renewed elegance to the house. “We create garments that are renowned for their versatile and empowering style and comfort that is fashion-aware. A Chicard woman is endearing and has gravitas», declares Tonia, who has brought the label to the media›s attention making it less of a common secret for Athenians. «If you don›t recognise our clothes by looking at them, you will know it’s us when you feel them”, she adds as they are known for paying meticulous attention to textures, quality and comfort.

_ Instagram: @chicard_official www.chicard.gr

Medical tourism: Sun, sea, therapy

HEALTH —

Greece is one of the most important destinations for what is called «medical tourism», where specialized doctors provide health services to people who are not residents of Greece. — BY FILIA MITROMARA

WHY CHOOSE GREECE AS A MEDICAL TOURISM DESTINATION?

reece is one of the most popular tourist destinations world-wide. The country’s unique characteristics, history, culture, natural beauty, thousands of islands, rare biodiversity, mild climate, Mediterranean gastronomy, its infrastructure and potential for attracting many new forms of tourism enable it to meet the requirements of Medical Tourism.

Best recovery In addition to an excellent climate, which favors rehabilitation and recovery, it also has excellent facilities with several international certifications, specialized medical and nursing staff, quality of services provided, excellent hotel potential and competitive prices in medical operations, while still being a safe country.

What is medical tourism? Medical tourism is about prevention, maintenance, treatment and recovery of health with modern medical or natural methods. It includes traditional spa tourism (or thermalism) and wellness tourism. Medical tourism refers mainly to medical tourists by choice: the patient decides to travel to receive a particular medical service, motivated by factors such as the cost of the service, its quality or even the opportunity to combine medical care with leisure. Spa tourism aims to prevent, maintain and restore physical and mental health, as well as well-being through the use of natural thermal baths. Wellness tourism combines holidays with services to prevent, maintain or improve health through programs of total rejuvenation and relaxation on a physical, mental and emotional level.

Favorable legislation In addition, in some categories of medical services, Greece has a comparative advantage, both due to its specialization and favorable legislation, as is the case with in vitro fertilization. No more waiting list Due to the fact that there are no waiting lists in the country. Low costs therapies There may be high costs in other countries, and the therapies are not covered by insurance funds. For example, the cost for an IVF in Greece amounts half of

There are complete packages for patients abroad, who want to come to Greece to have an operation. The packages include the medical part, the accommodation, the transport and everything else that the patient and his companion may need.

bit of «privacy», that is, the patient does not want to be seen by friends and acquaintances, then they feel a bit safe to do it in another country.

the relative IVF in other European countries and the cost in America. Private doctors and clinics in Greece have the latest equipment for medical tests and treatments, while therapy costs are much more economical than other European countries.

Easily accessible Greece stands as the ideal medical tourism destination worldwide. Furthermore, is a place at the crossroad between East and West which makes it easily accessible. It is no coincidence that a large crowd of people from all over the world come to Greece and receive medical services.

Excellent doctors, success stories The basis of attracting medical tourism in Greece is the high scientific level, which is translated in high success rates. The level of service quality of private hospitals in Greece is very high for two reasons: 1) there is an intense competition between all private hospitals and 2) Greece, as a member of EU, has to follow strict standards, guidelines and regulations in order to provide high level services in the healthcare system. Greek doctors and generally health professionals are well educated and highly experienced. Most of them have studied abroad, in universities in the USA or Europe, and participate in international conferences in order to be updated with the latest medical developments. This means that health professionals are fluent in English and other languages.

SOME TRENDS IN MEDICAL TOURISM

There is a variety of tourist trends that are based on more general changes in consumer behaviour, like the need for healthy and organic food & drinks, sustainability, personalised services by rising any demand for digitalisation and the use of technology. • «Healthy» hotels • Authentic experiences • Wellness Cruises • Wellness at airports (massage chairs, spas, fitness) • Back to nature / Outdoor activities • Wellness Escapes • Wellness villages / wellness real estate

Privacy When it comes to cosmetic surgeries, where there is a

One of the Largest Primary and Secondary Healthcare Networks in Greece Euromedica Group provides its services through an extensive medical network, consisting of General & Maternity Clinics, Diagnostic Centers, Assisted Reproduction Unit (IVF) and Rehabilitation Center in major Greek cities.

ALEXANDROUPOLI

Diagnostic Center THESSALONIKI

KOZANI

General Clinic

2 General Clinics, 7 Diagnostic Centers, 1 Maternity Clinic, 1 Assisted Reproduction Unit, 1 Medical Rehabilitation Center KATERINI

Diagnostic Center

LARISSA

2 Diagnostic Centers

ATHENS

10 Diagnostic Centers 1 General Clinic

RHODES

General Clinic

RETHYMNON CRETE

Diagnostic Center

HERACLION CRETE

Maternity Clinic Diagnostic Center

357-359 Mesogeion Ave. • email: info@euromedica.gr • Call Center: +30 210 36 86 600

www.euromedica.gr

Rhodes Euromedica General Clinic of Dodecanese, located within a short distance from the town of Rhodes, combines highly-sophisticated medical facilities with modern class residential ones. The clinic is staffed with experienced and well-trained medical personnel providing quality services with empathy.

The clinic co-operates with the majority of Travel Insurances

EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT 24/7 operation across the island

DIAGNOSTICS DEPARTMENT • Radiology Lab (X-Rays, CT & MRI scan, Sonograms) • Microbiology Lab (Hematology, Biochemistry, Molecular)

AVAILABLE DEPARTMENTS

• ICU • Dialysis • Obstetrics - Gynecology • NICU • Orthopedics • Urology • Surgical • Plastic Surgery

COVID-19 TESTS

• PCR • Rapid • Antigen

5th Klm Rhodes – Lindos Av. • email: info@euromedica-rhodes.gr • Call Center: +30 22410 45000

INTERNATIONAL PATIENTS DEPARTMENT

email: int@euromedica-rhodes.gr • Call Center: +30 22410 45280

www.euromedica-rhodes.gr

WELLNESS

HEALTH IS THE NEW BEAUTIFUL THERE IS NO SECRET BEHIND SYMMETRIA’S SUCCESS STORY: DR NIKOLAOS METAXOTOS, MD, PhD, UNFOLDS HIS PHILOSOPHY AND VISION.

er ventures that fall in line with his passion for placing health and beauty in the spotlight. “Our motto is: “Minimum Intervention, Maximum Effect ” – an operational model whereby optimum results are achieved through alternative and less invasive options. We focus on providing a holistic approach that deals with one’s individual needs and place emphasis on treatments that quickly, efficiently and painlessly correct the signs of ageing”, Dr Metaxotos stresses. “Gravity, a drop in hormone activity, age and local fat deposits are bound to leave their marks on the face and body. Technological developments and modern methods enable us to intervene in a bloodless, painless, incision-free manner, without the fear of any complications that may occur in the operating room, with the extra bonus of not needing any recovery time”, he adds. SYMMETRIA has expanded in the Middle East and plans to further extend to new locations very soon. At the same time, it maintains a strong presence in London, Zurich, Antibes and Barcelona through its collaboration with distinguished plastic surgeons. A health and beauty hub whose scope is to create unique, tailor-made experiences for each customer, SYMMETRIA brings together bespoke services and cutting-edge technologies. The Same Day Beauty Boost protocol gives you the opportunity to address all your needs with a tailor-made programme of a series of minimally invasive rejuvenation and anti-ageing facial treatments, that are carried out in just one session. The initial consultation can be carried out online through 3D simulation. SYMMETRIA also offers concierge services and exclusive rates at lavish hotels such as Divani Apollon Palace & Thalasso.

ocused on minimum intervention procedures that enhance the ageing face and body, Dr Nikolaos Metaxotos, MD, PhD, is one of the most sought-after international plastic surgeons. His story began with the birth of SYMMETRIA, a multi-awarded health and beauty centre, but his vision was greater than that. Motivation, persistence and all the right collaborations led to the international recognition that SYMMETRIA enjoys to date, as well as an array of oth-

_ Dr Nikolaos Metaxotos, MD, PhD Plastic Surgeon www.symmetria.com

AVAILABLE SOON IN QATAR

Anatoli Pataridou has, in fact, been the first doctor in Greece to perform a transoral endoscopic operation with the advanced DaVinciS robotic surgery system, to successfully remove a tumour from the larynx of a 65-yearold woman, at the state of the art Hygeia Hospital. Indeed recent leaps in modern medicine yield outstanding benefits for the contemporary patient. Without forgetting the foundations of her philosophy, Anatoli Pataridou is one to wholeheartedly embrace trail-blazing medical advances: “ Recent developments in the field of Otolaryngology, offer the possibility for a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation and targeted surgery, which is much safer, radical and non-traumatic. This allows the patient to have faster recovery, fewer complications and a much more timely return to their daily activities”, she stresses. Endoscopes undoubtedly brought a revolution to Otolaryngology, both at the diagnostic and surgical levels, paving the way for minimally invasive surgery (MIS). The advantage of MIS over classic open-surgery methods is that the target organ and the surrounding healthy tissue are affected to the least possible extent. Head and neck surgery in particular has seen great progress recently, thanks to the application of modern endoscopic techniques. Requiring no external incisions, endoscopic surgery of the nose and paranasal sinuses constitutes a much more desirable treatment for diseases and/or conditions such as sinusitis, nasal polyps, benign (and even some malignant) tumours, and cases of the deviated nasal septum. “More specifically, we are talking about endoscopic surgery of the nose and sinuses, endoscopic larynx-pharyngeal surgery with laser and transoral space robotic TORS surgery. These have to a great extent replaced antiquated open-surgery methods, which often lead to amputation”, Dr Pataridou explains. Sporting cutting edge facilities, her practice offers comprehensive medical check-ups for any type of ENT problem. In particular, the doctor performs hearing and vertigo tests, endoscopic examinations of the nose-pharynx-larynx and voice examinations with stroboscopy. Examinations for dysphagia and swallowing disorders, as well as salivary glands and olfactory testing, are available as well–in fact, whatever examinations are required to come to a well-rounded diagnosis that’s key to devising a bespoke strategy for the treatment. Specialising in the areas of dysphagia, endoscopic nasopharyngeal surgery, larynx and space robotic surgery, Dr Pataridou offers innovative, customised solutions with the patient at the epicentre.

HEALTH

HIPPOCRATIC PRINCIPLES MEET ROBOTIC SCIENCE COMBINING EMPATHY AND HEARTFELT CARING WITH EXPERIENCE AND EXPERTISE, DR ANATOLI PATARIDOU FOCUSES ON PROVIDING COMPREHENSIVE DIAGNOSES THAT LEAD TO INDIVIDUALISED, CUTTING EDGE TREATMENTS FOR ALL KINDS OF OTORHINOLARYNGOLOGICAL PROBLEMS AND CONDITIONS.

ver since she was a child, Anatoli Pataridou felt an acute need to comfort her fellow human beings. Markedly influenced by her grandmother – a refugee from Asia Minor with no formal qualifications, yet in possession of a deeply intuitive understanding of the human condition – she was introduced to the principles of Hippocratic medicine from an early age. These timeless values have followed her throughout the course of her life. Based on the belief that body and mind are one, hers is a holistic approach to all medical ailments – with utter customization being key to their solution. “Although I am a surgeon I want to emphasise that the patient’s painstakingly detailed and thorough history, is the cornerstone for a complete diagnosis. Apart from experience and specialisation, a doctor also needs empathy in order to be able to penetrate the patient’s problem thereby offering them the best available treatment”, Dr Pataridou emphasises. Guided by a strong therapeutic instinct and a heartfelt interest in her patients, she has secured a considerable number of victories during the 27 years of her career.

_ Anatoli Pataridou ENT, Head & Neck Surgeon Children & Adults, Scientific Associate of Hygeia-Mitera Hospital www.pataridou.gr

The detailed study of infertility, the improvement of the knowledge on the subject, the diagnostic examinations and the development of the techniques of assisted reproduction have as a result the treatment of the problem in a percentage of 35%-45%.

What causes poor fertility? According to the statistics, more than 90 million couples face fertility hurdles , with 85% of them never seeking help to their problems.

Infertility refers to the inability of a couple to have a child and can affect both men and women. The causes of occurrence in each sex are different.

In women: Several underlying diseases may be responsible. The most common reasons why you may have difficulty conceiving are: unexplained infertility, some thyroid disease, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, fallopian tubes, endometriosis, uterine abnormalities, premature ovarian failure, medication.

In men: Many issues can cause infertility and the causes are not always obvious. For example: hypogonadism (insufficient testosterone is produced), testicular problems, erectile dysfunction, ejaculatory disorders such as recurrent ejaculation, etc., varicose veins, environmental effects: elevated testicular temperature, toxicity, exposure to toxins and drug use, medication, frequency of sexual intercourse, stress.

Technical details of infertility Infertility can be diagnosed through hormonal diagnostic tests, as well as by a gynecologist and urologist-andrologist. A couple is judged to be infertile if they have not been pregnant after regular contact for 1 year. The cause for the 40% of the cases lies on the man, another 40% to the woman, while there is a 20% percentage of unexplained infertility (when despite the detailed control no obvious cause is found). Routine examinations for both spouses include a sperm count and hysterosalpingography. Depending on the course of treatment, more specialized tests, such as karyotype, thrombophilia test, hysteroscopy and laparoscopy, may be needed.

Therapies and treatment

HEALTH

INFERTILITY TODAY

Different methods are used to treat this malfunction, depending on the incident. There are three main categories of fertility treatments: • drugs that aid in fertility • surgical procedures • assisted reproduction • The most common are in vitro fertilization, microfertilization and intrauterine insemination.

90 million couples have fertility problem worldwide, 85% of these couples (77 million) never seek help for the problems they face. 13 millions of these couples seeking medical help, less than 42% will eventually begin treatment. 6% have the medical help they need!

HEALTH

IVF IN GREECE: FRIENDLY, SAFE AND HIGHLY SUCCESSFUL OFFERING CUTTING EDGE THERAPIES, TOP-CLASS FACILITIES AND STELLAR CARE AT A FRACTION OF THE COST, GREECE IS BECOMING A GO-TO DESTINATION FOR INTERNATIONAL INFERTILE PATIENTS EAGER TO START A FAMILY.

At Gennima IVF, we offer tailored, straight-forward and stress-free IVF treatments “Our philosophy at Gennima IVF is that every woman, every couple, every baby is unique. So, our approach is to offer tailored, straight-forward and stress-free IVF treatments”, he adds. Gennima IVF is a licensed IVF clinic and cryobank, staffed by a talented and enthusiastic team of fertility experts, embryologists and IVF coordinators with a 100% positive attitude. “Our embryology lab is equipped with a state-of-the-art Embryoscope+ incubator system for culturing high-quality embryos. Also, we use Artificial Intelligence for grading embryos and selecting the best ones for the highest possible success rates. That’s how 7 out of 10 couples have a positive pregnancy test after their first treatment with us (all ages, at least 6 eggs). The success rate is 80% when transferring blastocysts and even higher for egg donation patients”, Dr Mantoudis stresses.“In 2021, despite Covid-19, we were so happy to offer IVF treatments to patients from all over the world: Italy, France, UK, HongKong, Belgium, Germany, Cyprus, Egypt, Dubai, Canada, Botswana. Don’t be afraid to travel to Greece for your IVF, and you might very well come back home pregnant with your miracle baby!”, he exclaims.

nfertility affects millions of people worldwide – and has an impact on their families and communities. Fortunately, with modern medical breakthroughs, there are many safe and effective therapies that significantly improve your chances of having a baby. And what would be greater than combining your long- sought goal with a spot of sundrenched holidays? This is where Greece enters: “IVF is a way to boost your fertility. This treatment is suitable for patients with PCOS and endometriosis. Also, for women in their 40s, with lower ovarian reserve or recurrent miscarriages. Last but not least, it is also suitable for male infertility and fallopian tube conditions. Our country is very popular for IVF treatments because all fertility treatments are allowed, including IVF, ICSI, egg freezing, egg, sperm and embryo donation, preimplantation genetic testing and surrogacy. Costs are considerably lower compared to other European countries while success rates are high and the medical staff are well trained and experienced. Also, Greece is always a great place to visit!” explains Dr Evripidis Mantoudis, head fertility expert of Gennima IVF, a pioneering fertility centre in Athens.

_ Dr Evripidis Mantoudis FRCOG Head fertility expert, Gennima IVF Athens, Greece www.gennima.com

HEALTH

Greece, a major station of in vitro fertilization worldwide If everything is ultimately judged by the result, in vitro fertilization should rightly be considered one of the most successful medical methods of recent decades. It was 1973 when the first child was born by artificial insemination in England until today that 5% of births worldwide result from some method of assisted reproduction show the progress that has been made during these years in this field. In Greece, 12,000 to 14,000 cycles are performed annually and one in 20 children -according to the latest data- was born after a successful procedure of artificial insemination. Infertile couples from all over the world choose Greece to realize their dream.

Greece has a lot to offer as a destination for IVF treatment. Here’s why.

Combine your IVF treatment with a city break in Athens! Greece is always a great idea and Athens is a beautiful destination all year round: a sunny metropolis that offers a vast variety of activities, museums, theaters, archaeological sites, day trips, long walks, shopping and gastronomy. A destination for IVF treatment • A beautiful climate and stunning scenery make it possible to take a relaxing break whilst having a treatment. • Very low-cost of IVF treatment compared to the UK • and USA. • The laws on donor anonymity mean that there is next to no waiting lists for donor egg treatment. • The age limit for treatment is 50 years. • Greece is a well-trodden path for IVF treatment so there is lots of online chat about what to expect. • Strict laws on the number of embryos allowed to be transferred mean that your wellbeing and your child’s are considered paramount. • Many low budget airlines fly to Athens making travel easy and cheap.

“Infertility is no longer an unsurpassable obstacle”. als, first and foremost.”, Dr George Lainas asserts. He is the Scientific Director of Eugonia, a certified Assisted Reproduction Unit in Greece, and a Clinical research team with international recognition. “It is our principle that all women have the right to motherhood if they wish so. Infertility is no longer an unsurpassable obstacle. What is required is detailed couple’s counselling, individualized treatment and the use of the latest scientific methods of assisted reproduction technology”, Dr Lainas states. “We believe in developing personal relationships with every couple who seeks our help. Psychological support is very important during this fragile time. We take into account the couple’s personal circumstances and by using mild interventions we help nature run its course”. With pregnancy rates that reach 88%, Eugonia is one of the most successful IVF units worldwide, using research and innovation to optimize patient care. “For instance, one of the main issues during fertility treatment has been ovarian hyperstimulation. Our pioneering scientific and clinical work has led to the elimination of this complication, making the entire process far safer”, Dr Lainas explains. “Another major step forward has been the creation of the so-called ‘modified natural cycle’ whereby only a very short regiment of medication is used to help couples have a baby. These two key achievements have showcased our work in the European community. Our main principle is to treat each patient with respect, act with integrity, and put patients first.”

HEALTH

A SUCCESS STORY OFFERING CLINICAL AND SCIENTIFIC EXCELLENCE, PERSONALISED IVF TREATMENTS AND THE MOST UP-TO-DATE TECHNOLOGIES AND TECHNIQUES, EUGONIA MAXIMIZES YOUR CHANCES OF STARTING A FAMILY.

_ Dr George Lainas, MD PHD, Consultant Reproductive Gynaecologist, Scientific Director of Eugonia IVF Clinic www.eugonia.com.gr

n light of our stressed lifestyles, infertility nowadays plagues more women and men than ever. The good news is that there is usually a solution: Cutting edge advances in In Vitro Fertilization, ensure that there is indeed a happy ending – rosy-cheeked baby, and all. With an unbeatable mix of year-round sunny weather, top leisure infrastructures, high-quality medical care, lower costs and favourable legislation, Greece is attracting fertility patients from all over the planet. “It is also the personal contact and the sense of trust inspired by professionals who never lose their humanity here: their warm smile and their approach to patients as individu-

HEALTH Many patients come to Greece after learning that they would have to wait for months to undergo a similar surgery in their country.

because people are becoming more sedentary and eating more as a result of the coronavirus isolation. People who are still stuck at home are sitting for much too long, practicing bad posture, overeating and not exercising in a way to improve spine health. Stretching and resistance training that focuses on core strengthening is ideal for the “core muscles” that make up the abdomen and lower back. According to researches, sitting for more than five hours really increases the risk of lower back pain. Too much sitting also increases the risk of obesity, diabetes and heart disease. But from the standpoint of lower back pain, people are now spending more time sitting and they’re not getting up like they would in the workplace and taking few steps around the workstation or walking around the office.

Keep your spine healthy

BENEFITS OF SURGERY IN GREECE

Save money - You can make significant savings compared to your country costs Save time - You can beat national health care system waiting lists Excellent quality - Greek surgeons are world’s best Effective and seamless post-surgery treatment program Treat yourself and your family member You can even turn your trip into a holiday

Pandemic pushes lower back and neck problems to new levels! Try to get more aware of posture and exercise and weight management, and whatever else can do for improving spine health.

The top risk factors for back pain AGING: The spine over the years can produce conditions, such as disc degeneration and spinal stenosis, that cause neck and back pain. GENETICS: Certain types of spinal disorders have a genetic component, including degenerative disc disease. OCCUPATIONAL HAZARDS: Any job that requires repetitive bending and lifting has a high risk of back injury, such as construction workers. SEDENTARY LIFESTYLE: Lack of regular exercise increases risks for occurrence of lower back pain. EXCESS WEIGHT: Being overweight increases stress on the lower back.

Long before the pandemic, back pain was the second-most common cause of a visit to the doctor after the common cold. Issues with the cervical (neck) and lumbar spine also represented the top disabling health condition among adults 60 years of age and older. More than 2 years into the COVID-19 pandemic, and its related homebased isolation, back and neck pain are on the rise. That’s

raditional spine surgery was associated with a long and painful recovery. Yet modern medical breakthroughs in endoscopic and minimally invasive surgical techniques offer pain relief faster and more effectively than ever before. “Minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS) treats the whole spectrum of spinal conditions – and is, indeed, a game-changer for suffering patients”, Dr Georgios Vastardis, states. MISS is implemented with small incisions of the skin (~1cm) and the use of micro-endoscopic techniques under visual magnification. “This prevents bleeding while minimizes the destruction of adjoining tissues, achieving an optimum surgical result”, Dr Vastardis explains. Among the latest cutting edge techniques are: Epidural, intrathecal infusion (Block), the exclusion of the posterior joints (Facet Joints) and the infusions in the sympathetic nerves. These can treat chronic or acute spinal or leg pain caused by the nerve roots, under intraoperative fluoroscopy imaging and local anaesthesia. • Thermal or chemical reduction of the nucleus of the intervertebral disc (discoplasty). • Endoscopic spine surgery for the pathologies of the intervertebral disc or for stenotic disorders of the spinal canal or the foramens. • Removal of the traumatic disc hernia & annuloplasty –cauterization of the disc annulus with radiofrequency or laser fibres, so as to minimize post-operative pain and complications. • Rhizotomy, which treats lower back pain caused by arthritis or inflammation of the posterior joints of the spine, cauterizing the medial branch of the sensory nerves that are responsible for the perception of low back pain, with radiofrequency or laser fibres. • Relieving the pressure with fenestration or hemilaminectomy of the spine in cases such as the central stenosis of the spine. • Foraminoplasty: the decompression of the nervous structure in lateral-foraminal stenosis. • Endoscopic assisted spinal fusion. The wedge vertebral fractures of the spine, which are caused by some injury or an automatic mechanism due to strain of the spinal column and some related pathology, such as osteoporosis are treated by kyphoplasty –a method of internal reduction and stabilisation of the fractures percutaneously. Dr. Georgios Vastardis, MD, PhD, at the Endoscopic & Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Clinic is being appointed as a Center of Excellence for Full Endoscopic Spine Surgery. “With MISS the patient usually leaves the hospital the same day, a few hours after the surgery, returning to their usual activities as soon as possible”, Dr Vastardis asserts. And this makes a world of difference.

HEALTH

DON’T M.I.S.S. A THING! SPINAL CONDITIONS AND INJURIES ARE NO LONGER DEBILITATING. THE LATEST APPROACHES AND TECHNIQUES ENSURE THAT PATIENTS ARE RETURNING TO THEIR REGULAR LIFE ACTIVITIES, ALMOST IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE SURGERY

Georgios Vastardis MD, PhD, Spine Surgeon Head of Endoscopic & Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery Clinic (M.I.S.S.) facebook, youtube, linkedin: Endospinehellas www.endospinehellas.gr

HEALTH The nose plays the role of an important filter for the body and if it does not work properly, it affects our daily performance and well-being. Apart from the well-known nasal congestion, which one can get used to because it has no measure of comparison, as he breathes like this all his life, the consequences are many, he often feels tired, snores, dizzy, has a headache, frequent dry cough, ear problems and other annoying symptoms.

Deviated septum: Why do people avoid surgery?

The deviated septum is even blamed for panic attacks due to lack of air. The final solution of the problem is the operation which has now become a routine, with 100% success in each case, according to the specialist surgeons. The diaphragm is the dividing wall between the two nostrils and consists of a bony and a cartilaginous part. Nasal septal scoliosis, perhaps the most common septal deformity, can affect one or both. When the diaphragm is sharply crooked, there is increased resistance to air entry and this causes difficulty in nasal breathing and people breathe through the mouth.

How the operation is done, how it changes our life for the better but also what to watch out for.

External deformity of the nose can also affect proper breathing. Thus, when it affects the anatomical structures of the nasal valve and the bony part of the septum, the deformity must also be corrected with functional rhinoplasty, which ensures an excellent result aesthetically and respiratory. The nose becomes both symmetrical and functional. With endoscopic surgery, all the anatomical areas that are damaged can be corrected, which are not so well visible with other methods. At the same time, the known niches can be operated, either with cauterization or with conchoplasty.

Then why do so many people avoid surgery? Unfortunately, the operation for the deviated septum is very misunderstood, because not all the anatomical points of the septum are corrected. So, if the operation is not done endo- scopically, then the complete restoration of the deviated septum may not be done. Another reason is that in the lower nasal cavities, when they are hypertrophic, it is necessary to do conchoplasty and not just cauterization, because in 8-10 months the niches will swell again. Finally, people are often concerned that they will need hospitalization, that they will have swelling, bruising and pain, while these, with the new endoscopic techniques they are a myth.

A deviated septum can lead to other complications. These include sleep apnea, snoring, congestion, difficulty in breathing, infections, or nosebleeds.

ISSUE № 03

SUMMER 2022

Delta Restaurant, Athens

Taste

AU T H E N T IC G A S T RO NOM IC D E S T I NAT IO N . These are the secrets that compose Greek gastronomy. Quality fresh ingredients, flavours, traditional recipes, local cuisine, fine use of aromas and simplicity! Add warm spirit and embracing hospitality and you have a taste of Greece!

Why Fakes and Fasolada are considered Superfoods of the World?

FOOD —

Lentils for iron and protein, beans for healthy strong heart, fava beans for good memory, chickpeas for osteoporosis, green beans for good eyesight.

egumes have historically been found in the diet of people since ancient times and are one of the main types of food in Greek cuisine. They are located on the second level of the Mediterranean food pyramid and their consumption is recommended 2-3 times a week. Fakes (lentils), Fasolada (beans), Revithia (chickpeas), Gigantes (Lima beans), Fava (split peas) and many more traditional Greek dishes are tasty comfort foods all year round, and are super good for us, providing an excellent source of protein, fibre and iron, as well as other essential minerals. Beans, lentils, chickpeas and split peas, form the very foundation of the Greek diet and have done so since ancient times. Over the centuries, Greek households have prepared them in a variety of ways and have been the perfect way to feed large families on islands and villages all around the country.

BENEFITS OF LEGUMES

• High in B-group vitamins, iron, calcium, phosphorous, zinc and magnesium • Good source of iron and folate, which is essential for women of child-bearing age • Good source of antioxidants • Low in saturated fat • As they are full of fibre, they fill us up, assisting in cholesterol control and promoting a healthy bowel. • A source of carbohydrates for long-lasting energy! • A great source of plant-based protein. • Full of vitamins and minerals, including B-vitamins, iron, zinc, calcium, and magnesium. • Inexpensive and easy to make!

Poor man’s meat Even though Fasolada and Fakes are also referred to as the «poor man’s meat» as they are an inexpensive source of protein, they are in fact as rich in proteins as you can get, as they provide your body with some of the most important vitamins it needs to function well. Legumes are also high in dietary fibre, which helps to keep bowels healthy, they are also a source of carbohydrate and have a low GI, which means they are broken down more slowly so you feel fuller for longer. This

Mediterranean Diet The Mediterranean Diet is, proven by numerous studies, a balanced and healthy dietary pattern beneficial to health and the prevention of chronic diseases. The Mediterranean diet significantly strengthens the immune system and contributes significantly to the treatment of infections. Legumes are also highly valued by the much-discussed Mediterranean diet, which is now recommended by scientists around the world.

TIP! The iron contained in foods of plant origin is low bioavailability (non-heme iron), it is absorbed in a small percentage by the body. To increase its absorption, it is good to combine sources of plant iron (legumes in this case) with sources of vitamin C, such as citrus fruits (lemon, orange, tangerine, etc.), colorful peppers, tomatoes, etc.

So, opting for a plate of Fakes or Fasolada instead of a steak, two or three times a week promotes healthy cholesterol levels and helps protect against heart disease.

makes them a particularly good food for preventing and managing diabetes. The healthy benefits of legumes The reason why doctors and dietitians worldwide recommend eating legumes regularly is that they truly are an ideal meat substitute, and whereas meat is also a source of cholesterol and saturated fat, legumes are a cholesterol-free food that contains virtually no saturated fat. So, opting for a plate of Fakes or Fasolada instead of a steak, two or three times a week promotes healthy cholesterol levels and helps protect against heart disease. Regulation of blood sugar Due to its low glycemic index, legumes are a good choice for regulating blood sugar. They can also be consumed without fear in the right amount and frequency by people with diabetes.

Cardioprotective action The combination of fiber and high content of folic acid with the simultaneous low content of saturated fats in legumes, makes them a food with strong cardioprotective action.

Good bowel function The fiber contained in legumes, both soluble and insoluble, helps the proper functioning of the intestine and prevents constipation.

Anti-cancer action Legumes are an integral part of the Mediterranean diet, which seems to reduce the risk of cancer. Also, new studies have proven the association of bean consumption with the incidence of colon cancer, but we still do not have clear results for this association.

COOKING TIPS

Always add salt and tomato towards the end of cooking. The salt, if added from the beginning, peels and opens the legumes, while the tomato, because it is a little acidic, hardens them. After soaking, discard the legumes that float in the water, because they may be hollow or over-ripened.

The right combinations of legumes If we want to make the most of the nutritional value of legumes, it would be good to apply the right combination in our diet. So, it would be good to combine legumes with foods that contain sulfur amino acids, such as rice and nuts to increase the biological value of legume proteins. Also, to increase the absorption of iron contained in legumes from the body, it would be good to combine them with good sources of vitamin C such as lemon and raw peppers.

Legumes need 10-15 hours of soaking, with the exception of lentils, which do not need more than 1-2 hours. Add the olive oil at the end of cooking, to avoid the deterioration of fatty acids. To be well-cooked, you should always get legumes of this year’s harvest and do not mix different batches in the same food.

The Best Greek Superfoods

FOOD —

Miraculous foods with a Greek aroma, the best superfoods from Greece. — BY FILIA MITROMARA

reece, according to the data presented at an event at the Thessaloniki branch of the Hellenic Society of Environment and Culture, is still the «paradise of European plants». Although the country’s soils account for 6% of the Mediterranean, it hosts 26% of the Mediterranean flora. It occupies together with the neighboring Balkan countries 50% of the plant diversity of Europe (6,700 species and subspecies).

But what are the main superfoods that come from the Greek land? Clinical dietitians - nutritionists Asteria Stamataki and Konstantinos Xenos, from the Hellenic Nutrition Institute, wrote the book «Meet the Greek Superfoods» which is available from Dioptra publications and presents the unknown magical properties of Greek food. Olive oil A tree that has been valued since antiquity and is considered the symbol of life and peace. Rich in vitamin E and antioxidants and with a large percentage of monounsaturated fatty acids, olive oil is the most famous Greek nutrition. Protects against heart disease, heart attack, stroke, breast and colon cancer, and eradicates Helicobacter pylori that causes stomach ulcers. Its consumption is associated, among other things, with the good health of the cardiovascular system. But because a tablespoon provides 120 calories, our food should not «swim» in it.

Such are the vegetables variety in Greece that the country has 5 species of oregano and another 10 that smell and are used such as oregano, 10 species and subspecies of mint, more than 30 species - subspecies of thyme, 4 sage and at least 10 different types of Greek tea, 5 of which are endemic and 4 of which are threatened with extinction due to over-collection. Carob, caper, kritamo, Chios mastic, fennel, mountain thyme, sage, mountain tea, diktamos, Kozani saffron, marjoram, rudi, krana, rose hips (fruits of the wild rose) can be characterized as superfoods.

Carob It is also called «the cocoa of the ancient Greeks», while it was also used as a unit of measurement of the weight of gold, due to the constant weight of the carob seeds. The carat, which is the unit of measurement of gold, got its name from the ancient Greek name of the carob tree, which was «keration». Ιt is a rich source of calcium as it contains twice the amount of milk, while it does not contain oxalic acid, which prevents the assimilation of calcium in the body. It is considered a preventive factor of osteoporosis, while it is also suitable

Typically, Dittany of Crete, fennel, marjoram, Chios mastic, honeysuckle, medicinal sage, and mountain tea are herbal medicines with their use approved by the European Medicines Commission. Carob flour has ten times more beneficial sugars than any other vegetable. Fennel, which we do not prefer in Greece, contains more potassium than broccoli, which is considered a superfood, while lettuce in front of honeysuckle «pales» in calcium and potassium content.

erosclerotic plaques and arteriosclerosis, helping to maintain the health of the cardiovascular system. They reduce triglycerides and improve blood sugar levels and cholesterol profile, thus protecting against heart disease and diabetes. Like almonds, however, they provide 160 calories per 28 grams, so it is required sparingly in their consumption.

for those who are intolerant to gluten. Thanks to the pectin and lignin it contains, it helps digestion and the proper functioning of the intestine. At the same time, it helps the reduction of the levels of total cholesterol, as well as those of «bad» (LDL) cholesterol, while carob honey has a soothing effect against cough. Kapari The Mediterranean rose as mentioned, has few calories and is a bomb of antioxidants and is one of the best “protective agents” of our body. It is a rich source of calcium, potassium, magnesium, sodium and zinc, while it has minimal calories. Capers can also relieve pain and protect the liver, and research has shown that it strengthens the immune system, stimulates blood circulation and stimulates the body’s respiratory function. Quercetin is one of the elements contained in capers and has anti-allergic, antimicrobial, antihypertensive, analgesic, anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties together!

Sage Its official botanical name is in fact Salvia officinalis, which is partly derived from the Latin verb salvare, meaning “save,” and alludes to its therapeutic properties. The ancient Greeks used its fresh leaves to treat wounds and snake bites, and as a drink to enhance female fertility. As a beverage, sage-infused “Greek tea,” as the French call it, or “Greek sprout” for the Chinese, remains popular to this day, either on its own or combined with other aromatic herbs. Sage is also associated with some less scientific benefits. In Syros, for example, they say it exorcises any gossip. You will often find little bunches of it hanging outside homes. A beneficial herb, sage has anti-catarrhal properties (for asthma, bronchitis and coughs), as well as anti-fungal and anti-infective action (for flu, gingivitis and insect bites). It is an effective antispasmodic (in cases of dysmenorrhea) and healing agent. Its broader effects include stimulating the nervous system, improving memory and boosting blood circulation, while

Peanuts of Αegina They provide plenty of vitamins B1 and B6, valuable trace elements such as copper and manganese, beneficial fats and antioxidants. Rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, B vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber, Aegina pistachios are worthy of Greek superfoods. They reduce cholesterol and the appearance of ath-

STYLE

MIA PAPA MIA PAPAEFTHIMIOU-MILCIC IS A CITIZEN OF THE WORLD –AND THIS COSMOPOLITAN OUTLOOK IS EMBEDDED IN HER DESIGNS.

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There is no official definition for the concept of superfood. However, when we describe a food as a superfood, we mean a food that is rich in nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, trace elements and a large number of substances with strong antioxidant activity and this food has a beneficial effect in the body.

its antioxidants act against free radicals.

through Aristeas, son of Apollo. There are references to cheese products in the scripts of Aristotle and in the comedies of Aristophanes, while Homer famously referred to them in the Odyssey as well, citing the cheese made from goat’s and sheep’s milk by the giant Cyclops Polyphemus, eventually blinded by Odysseus. Could this cheese have been anthotyro? It is quite possible. Soft, white and rind-less, anthotyro is made in most regions of Greece from whey (left over from making other types of cheese) and sheep’s or goat’s milk, or a combination of the two. Lightly salted, it combines a pleasant flavor with high nutritional value, providing all of the substances that dairy products offer (protein, calcium, potassium, phosphorus), but with less fat, and at just 200 calories/100g. Compare that to 470 calories/100g for graviera cheese, 420 calories/100g for kefalotyri cheese, and 350 calories/100g for feta cheese. Anthotyro is served as a side dish with meals and used in savory pies and salads or as a spread on bread. It pairs deliciously with fresh fruit and nuts, and makes an excellent dessert when topped with honey.

Moustalevria In bygone times, homemakers made full use of everything the Greek soil yielded up. This is how moustalevria, a dessert that dates back to antiquity, was born; during the Byzantine period, it was called moustopita and was made with flour and boiled grape must. That is more or less the recipe that survives today, though it is now embellished with nuts and cinnamon. Moustalevria is a highly nutritious food, thanks to the main ingredient – grape must – which provides a large quantity of antioxidants. With the addition of walnuts, almonds, cinnamon and sesame seeds, it is enriched even further, not only in flavor but also in nutrients. Sesame seeds are rich in amino acids, minerals, trace elements and calcium. Cinnamon balances glucose levels in the blood, while walnuts and almonds provide valuable omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants and phytosterols. What’s more, this dessert is relatively low in fat. Diktamo Continuing with the drinks. Dittany is an herb that has been recognized as an important medicinal plant since ancient times. According to mythology, Aeneas was so deeply wounded by an arrow that he could not get out in any way. Then, his mother, goddess Aphrodite, took a dittany from Crete and put it on his wound, as a result of which the arrow was expelled and the wound was immediately healed. Studies have shown that it has antimicrobial and antioxidant activity. Contains over 40 nutrients and relieves cough associated with colds, mild gastrointestinal disorders, minor skin inflammations and bruises. It is digestive and is used to fight headaches and toothaches.

Messolongi avgotaracho (bottarga) Avgotaracho (bottarga) – also known as “Greek caviar” – is made from the eggs of the gray mullet fish (kefalos, or bafas, in Greek), and ranks among the best Greek delicacies. Avgotaracho is a protected designation of origin (PDO) product, and is produced in the area of the lagoons of Messolongi-Etoliko (the “beauteous lake,” as Homer referred to it), Kleisova and Bouka. The most common way of preserving it is by dipping and encasing it in a coat of natural beeswax, which prevents contact with the air and lets it keep for several months. Both the ancient Greeks and the Byzantines – who called it oiotarikhon – regarded it as a fine delicacy. Avgotaracho is of great nutritional value, as it is a potent source of protein, vitamins, iron, calcium, selenium and zinc, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, which are

Anthotyro According to Greek mythology, knowledge of cheesemaking was gifted to humans by the Olympian gods

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has been used since ancient times until today. The proof that our planet still works, honey is a unique palette of flavors and smells from each region that is produced. It has antimicrobial, anti-cancer properties and contains a large percentage of antioxidants, the darker it is, the more powerful the antioxidant it is. It is also considered an ally in the treatment of skin diseases. Barley rusks The ancient name for rusks was dipyritis artos, or «twice-baked bread.” Rusks have been a staple of the Greek diet for millennia before refrigeration or preservatives, as a way of keeping bread for as long as possible was needed. Rusks, particularly those made with barley (which does better in the Greek climate than wheat), are a good source of vitamin B complex, selenium, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, silicon (to help rebuild and protect bones), chromium (for better control of glucose levels in diabetics) and dietary fiber (especially beta-glucan, linked to lower cholesterol). They also aid in better intestinal and liver function and help reduce cellulitis. What’s more, barley contains less gluten than wheat. So, try barley rusks instead of your breakfast toast (or even forego commercial breakfast cereals, with their hidden sugars, for boiled barley, honey and cold milk). And remember that, because their low moisture content eliminates the risk of microbial spoilage, rusks don’t contain any preservatives, either. Trahana According to gastronomic history, modern-day trahana has evolved from a porridge-like mixture of milk and wheat eaten by the ancient Greeks and Romans. The noted gourmet and recipe collector Apicius (1st c. AD) refers to this food substance as tractae. In Byzantium, it was popular as tragos or traganos. In the past, it was a practical method for using up leftover milk and was critical to a family’s survival – trahana could be stored for more than a year in a cool place. Trahana is made with milk that has soured, to which wheat is added. The wheat can range from coarse to fine – Cretan xinohontros, for example, uses coarse wheat. Trahana is rich in carbohydrates and is also a source of fiber, which aids intestinal health. The lactobacilli in the sour milk have a beneficial effect on the digestive tract, too. Trahana contains protein, magnesium, iron, phosphorus and calcium in a form which the body can easily absorb. It also has carotenoids, such as lutein, a powerful antioxidant that works to prevent the harmful effects of free radicals, thus helping to maintain eye, skin and heart health. Trahana can be made into a thin or thick soup which is low in calories (100 calories/100g). It can be added to savory pie fillings or used in stuffed vegetables or

vital to our bodies and linked to good cardiovascular health. It is served cut into very thin slices (after first having been kept at room temperature for at least an hour, in order for it to soften) or grated on top of bread or even in salads, risotto or pasta dishes, to which it offers its delicate flavor. It can be accompanied by a glass of tsipouro (a pomace beverage). Thyme honey The history of apiculture, or beekeeping, in Greece goes back thousands of years. Excavations at Phaistos uncovered ceramic beehives from the Minoan era (3400 BC). Hippocrates recommended honey to all his patients; eaten with bread, it was the main food for Pythagoras and his followers. Frequently, the libations to the gods included honey with grape imbibe and milk, while ambrosia, the food of the immortals, was said to contain royal jelly. In classical times, desserts with honey were very popular, including honey pies called melitoutta, and plakountes, which also had sesame seeds and spices. One of the most important medicines of nature that

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STYLE

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he has a solid academic background in Physics, but her deep-seated love of fashion eventually won. After interning at one of the biggest couture houses in South Africa for Peter Pondisio, Loukia Kyriakou returned to Cyprus where she opened her own studio – LKC couture, with custom-made pieces for clients both in Cyprus and abroad. Having secured the title of the “Best New Designer” at the Athens Xclusive Designers Week in 2013, Loukia has been also producing collections for the more affordable, Underground label that is based in Athens. LKC Bridal is moreover a big part of her brand and is now in full effect with unusual details and sheer fabrics being the trademarks of her creations. “A woman is born with style. Style can not be taught. Women with style are strong confident women”, she asserts. That’s why her designs are always showstopping. “I strongly believe that our garments make women feel sexy, confident and very feminine. When they are wearing our pieces they are noticed even more because they feel very good in what they are wearing”, she stresses. “I love women. And I love that clothing can make someone feel empowered and really strong”, she adds.

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The inclusion of superfoods in a balanced dietary regimen, strengthens our body, stimulates us, shields our health and gives flavor and aroma to our diet.

grape-leaf dolmades instead of rice.

Rich in protein (20 percent) and carbohydrates (65 percent), the local fava is an excellent source of vitamin B1, iron, copper, phosphorus, potassium and magnesium. Its high fiber content helps maintain normal levels of glucose and cholesterol in the blood, promotes the proper function of the digestive system and helps prevent cancer of the large intestine. And it has just 85 calories/100g. The fava is served in pureed form with lemon juice, oregano and olive oil, and sometimes with chopped onion and capers or with tomatoes and olives. You might also see it in salads, made into patties or even served with seafood such as octopus or anchovies.

Raisins Raisins are among the most ancient of agricultural products of Greece, having been cultivated since Homeric times. Corinthian raisins are small and with relatively little flesh, but offer an impressive wealth of nutritional ingredients, antioxidant elements and other trace elements, which can fortify and safeguard our bodies against illnesses. In antiquity, doctors recommended them as a cure for almost anything – from food poisoning to old age! In the late 19th century, Greek raisins accounted for 80 percent of the country’s total exports. Raisins have numerous health benefits: They provide energy; they help fight iron deficiency anemia; they work as an antioxidant; they contribute to the lowering of cholesterol and blood pressure; and their dietary fibers (which outnumber those found in most fruits) facilitate bowel function. Furthermore, raisins retain their beneficial properties even if exposed to high temperatures – that is, when used in cooking or pastry making. They can be eaten on their own as a snack (two tablespoons a day cover a third of the average person’s fruit and vegetable needs), or they can lend their distinctive taste to a variety of main dishes and desserts.

Mastic from Chios The mastic tree was particularly popular to the ancient Greeks: its shoots were pickled and eaten as appetizers, while its “tears,” the well-known mastic resin, were chewed to clean the teeth and freshen the breath. These tears were also used to flavor grape imbibe. The tree, Pistacia lentiscus, is only systematically cultivated in Greece on the island of Chios, and only on the southern part do the conditions allow for the production of mastic. Prescriptions based on mastic can be found in medical texts dating from late antiquity, when it was already considered beneficial. Present studies have confirmed this. Its antioxidant extracts prevent atherosclerotic plaque from forming on artery walls. Its polyphenols reduce high glucose and cholesterol levels in the blood. Regular use of mastic limits the formation of dental plaque. It helps prevent and treat diseases of the digestive system. It‘s an all-purpose substance: a powerful anti-inflammatory, an analgesic, a cough suppressant, an appetite stimulant, an astringent and a diuretic. Today, mastic has many uses: as a flavoring for meat and fish, chewing gum, ice cream, sweets and cookies. It’s even used in cosmetics. The resin can be found in a variety of other forms: powders, crystals, mastic water or as an essential oil.

Santorini fava Traces of stored crops and seeds found at Akrotiri indicate that a local species of vetchling, Lathyrus clymenum, was being cultivated on Santorini more than 3,500 years ago. Pedanius Dioscorides, a famous 1st c. AD physician and botanist, distinguished the plant that provides the specific local fava (yellow split pea) from its relatives in other regions. The particularities of Santorini’s soil, the climatic conditions and, strangely enough, the lack of water combine to create a unique product with a velvety texture and sweet flavor.

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Everyone knows about the beneficial properties of «liquid gold», olive oil, but how many know about the powerful antioxidant action of capari?

Krana One of the favorite superfoods that remind you of spring and summer every time you taste them. They create in their minds the image of the girl with the big hat who will sit on the terrace of the village church and will gaze at the endless blue of the sea. They contain more antioxidants than any other fruit and thus protect against all diseases. They are also a wonderful source of vitamin C and potassium. Many people confuse them with cranberries. Their slightly acidic taste can become sweeter if you leave them overnight at room temperature. But nothing compares to collecting them at that time and after washing them a little in the cold spring water to enjoy them.

Kozani crocus …or saffron, is probably the result of efforts to tame the wild Crocus cartwrightianus in ancient Greece, as the plant appears frequently in Crete’s Minoan-era frescoes and pottery, as well as in a fresco from the prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri in Santorini depicting a woman collecting the flowers. Saffron was widely used in medicine – the ancient Greeks drank it in a tisane to cure sleeplessness and hangovers. Today, Kozani’s saffron is one of the most expensive spices in the world (it takes more than 150,000 flowers to produce one kilogram of it) and is very sought-after for its subtle aroma and flavor, its properties as a coloring agent and its health benefits. Saffron contains vitamins A, C and B complex, as well as iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium and lycopene, which is known to help prevent cancer. It has powerful antioxidant and anti-aging properties, as its carotenoids protect cells from free radicals. It is good for the digestive tract, boosts the metabolism and improves memory and overall brain function. In addition, it helps fight anxiety and acts as a mood elevator. A mere pinch is enough to give food a rich yellow color, a subtle tang and plenty of aroma. It goes particularly well with rice, pasta, white meat and fish; it is used in salads and soups; and it is also used in sweets. It can be found in powder or thread form and as a tea.

Pasteli According to Linear B tablets, the Mycenaeans showed great interest in precious “sa-sa-ma,” judging by its frequent appearance on lists. This word refers to sesame, that aromatic seed that was already well in use during that period, not only in cooking, but also in medicine – it was used to help heal burns, rashes and various skin conditions, as well as to deal with toothaches and coughs. Sesame – which, like today, was used to garnish bread – as well as poppy and flax seeds, were all widely used around 600 BC, as revealed by the Spartan poet Alcman, who made reference to them. Herodotus (5th century BC) was the first to mention the word “sesamis” – a sweet made from honey and sesame, which was usually offered at weddings. This could be thought of as an “ancestor” of today’s pasteli (a sesame seed and honey confection), which is made in many parts of Greece. Kalamata pasteli is famous, as is that from Rhodes, which is called melekouni. Pasteli is an exceptional source of energy and has great nutritional value, making it an ideal snack. Sesame seeds contain five times the amount of calcium found in full-fat sheep’s milk, and twice the iron found in spinach. They also have antioxidant properties and contribute significantly to lowering blood pressure.

Stamnagathi These greens are a variety of wild chicory (Cichorium spinosum), and have a bitter flavor. They are a key element of Cretan cuisine. The Greek name originates from an old habit the Cretans had of placing these greens over the mouths of water jars to keep bugs out. The stamnagathi plant is a source of dietary fiber, antioxidants, iron, calcium, potassium and vitamins A, C and E, and beta-carotene. It is an excellent tonic and diuretic; it helps to detoxify the liver and has slightly cathartic properties. The ancient Greeks considered it a remedy. The greens can be eaten raw with a lemon

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or vinegar and olive oil dressing, boiled on their own, or cooked together with lamb or goat. They can also be pickled after parboiling.

GREEK SUPERFOODS IN YOUR DIET

How can you incorporate them into your daily routine? Superfoods can be included in the daily diet either as a supplement (pill or capsule with the oil or powder of the food) or as a fresh or dried food.

Traditional yogurt Yogurt has always held a special place on the Greek table, although it’s also widely consumed throughout the southeastern Mediterranean. The ancient Greeks called it oxygala, and they had a particular liking for it. French explorer Pierre Belon (1517-1564) wrote: “The Greeks and Turks have oxygala, a type of sour milk which they carry in fabric bags hanging off the side of their animals. Though it is quite watery, it stays in the bag without spilling.” There’s been a lot of milk under the bridge since then. Today, as the food industry strives to offer products with long shelf lives, most yogurt is processed at temperatures high enough to prevent the growth of unwanted microorganisms. However, this means that beneficial live bacteria are also eliminated and yogurt loses a large part of its nutritional value. Traditional Greek yogurt, the one with the skin on the surface, is made from cow’s or sheep’s milk and contains bacteria which have a positive effect on the entire

Breakfast: Tranditional yogurt with 1 tbsp. krana Snack: 2 tbsp. Corinthian raisin + 10 pcs Aegina pistachios Lunch: Risotto with Kozani safran and vegetables + salad with 1 tbsp. sea buckthorn and olive oil. Snack: Smoothie with pomegranate or 1 pasteli bar. Dinner: Green salad with olive oil, anthotyro and olive oils. In the day: Chios mastic instead of chewing gum. Beverage: Mountain tea with 1 tbsp. thyme honey.

digestive tract. These bacteria include Lactobaccilus, which has been shown to have cancer-fighting properties. Yogurt also helps digestion, provides the same nutrients as milk (protein, carbohydrates, fats, calcium, phosphorus, vitamin B complex and more), and can often be consumed by those who are lactose-intolerant. It is, indeed, an all-round superfood! Oregano The ancient Greeks held it to be a symbol of joy and made wedding crowns out of it. But they also knew of its therapeutic value and used it as a drink to treat poisoning, diarrhea and colic, or externally to relieve skin inflammation. Arcadia and Tenedos are famous for their oregano. Cretan traditional medicine called for oregano leaves fried in olive oil to make a poultice for back pain, and oregano oil offered relief for toothache. Oregano grows practically everywhere in Greece. Fresh or dried, it adds beneficial properties along with its characteristic fragrance to many dishes. Rich in vitamin C, it also contains calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, potassium, copper, boron, manganese and vitamin A. The essential oil of Greek oregano is considered the best in the world, as recent studies have shown it to have the highest content in carvacrol and thymol, both of which have powerful antioxidant and cancer-fighting properties. It has antibiotic and antiseptic properties as well. Oregano can relieve intestinal upsets and abdominal pain; it exhibits stimulatory, sudorific and anti-asthmatic effects; it is used to treat flu, colds, gingivitis and sore throat (in a gargling solution). Amazingly, oregano demonstrates 42 times greater antioxidant action than apples, 30 times greater than potatoes and 12 times greater than oranges.

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ISSUE № 03

SUMMER 2022

Pallas Chania, Crete

Travel

D R E A M . DI S C OV E R . E X PE R I E NC E . Greece is one of those countries that you’ll never get bored of visiting. With thousands of little islands and the gorgeous mainland, it’s a place that just gets better on every trip.

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INVESTMENT

houghtfully guided investments in Greece can significantly improve one’s way of doing business and enhance their future prospects, as well. Yet this can only be achieved with the help of a trustworthy, dedicated local expert. This is where Mertiri Legal Advisors (MLA), enters. A leading Greek law office, based in Athens, Greece, MLA has gained international acclaim for both its stellar reputation within the market and the broad spectrum covered by its practice. With over 10 years of experience, MLA provides high-quality legal services in the fields of Business, Corporate, Commercial, Property and Immigration law.

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More specifically, the firm’s fields of expertise include: • Investment immigration and especially: - Greek Golden Visa Residence Program - Establishment of businesses in Greece and residence program for entrepreneurs and their families - Digital nomads • Business law • Commercial law • Corporate law • Property law • Telecommunication law • Shipping law • Intellectual property law • Inheritance law, with a specialization in international inheritance matters • Civil law • Enforcement of foreign judgements in Greece • Data protection law • Tourism law • Legal opinions on Greek law matters “We are known for our in-depth understanding of our clients´ businesses – and this enables us to deliver the quality of advice and service they expect. Our practice areas are led by prominent legal practitioners, who uniquely combine a commitment to problem-solving with an international outlook and an in-depth knowledge of the local and global markets. We always work collaboratively, around the clock and around the world – always ready, always on – to respond to the needs of our clients and craft powerful solutions for them. Our aim is to help clients address and anticipate challenges across vast and rapidly changing landscapes. And we approach every representation with an equal commitment to first understanding, and then efficiently and effectively advancing, the interests of our clients and arriving at the best results”, Ms Mertiri, emphasizes.

co-founder and Managing Partner of MLA. “We’re always looking ahead, identifying new opportunities and business drivers. We‘re always anticipating and prepared. We practice global law to produce local action. Our aim is to build connections between Greece and the rest of the world”, she stresses. Consisting of a set of motivated and forward-thinking professionals, who are fluent in several languages, including English, Greek, Russian, French, Italian and Albanian, the firm’s legal team is wellversed in international transactions: “Our mission is to assist both international private and corporate clients in their transactions in Greece, and especially in their research of investment opportunities, with due diligence verifications of potential investments, thereby ensuring the smooth completion and operation of their transactions and businesses in Greece”, Suzanna Mertiri, declares. In collaboration with an elite troupe of professionals across a diverse range of fields, including accountants, auditors, engineers, notaries, realtors, as well as a trusted network of legal professionals abroad, MLA is best equipped to provide a wide range of services to their clientele, in the most efficient, timely and cost-effective way.

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Mykonos: Α model of travel experience

TRAVEL —

Make a suitcase for the island that is more famous than Greece itself. — BY FILIA MITROMARA

Day Excursion to Delos Lovers of history and the sun will surely love a day trip onto the nearby island of Delos. UNESCO has recognized Delos as a part of world heritage and the island is one of the most important archaeological sites in the Aegean region.

t is the most famous Greek island in the world, it has the best facilities almost all over Greece, it has beautiful sandy beaches, super organized and some of the best restaurants in the country. The reputation of the island goes beyond the borders of the country and makes it a destination for the international jet set. Mykonos, however, is not just that. It is the island that skillfully balances between luxury and simple everyday life.

Ancient ruins, Delos For the ancient Greeks, Delos was the center of pilgrimage and worship. Various deities were worshiped on the island, but mainly the god Apollo and the twin sister of the goddess Artemis as mythology wanted Delos as their birthplace. Do not miss the unique opportunity to visit this unique archeological site. You can arrange a day trip on the island of Delos.

Mykonos is a model of travel experience. And it is constantly changing, improving. It is a big hug, a little salty, but with a very sweet aftertaste. A global village with excellent services, almost everywhere now, from the cafe on the ring road, the ultra-colorful greengrocery, the gas stations, where the courtesy abounds, the shop workers, the cleaning people, the waiters, the concierges, the people in hospitality, the ordinary inhabitants of winter-summer. It is the island where more and more people drink espresso without straw, where the heating-cooling in swimming pools and baths has started to work with environmental awareness, where desalination is intensified, where the quality of food is flooded with aromas of Cyclades and Greece.

The Windmills of Mykonos Long before Instagram and the hashtags, Mykonos had already decided in advance what is its most photographed and iconic point: the Mills (or, more correctly, the Lower Mills between Alefkandra and Neochori) are located right next to the sea, with a view to the sea. Originally built by the Venetians in the 16th century to grind wheat, the windmills of Mykonos are the trademark of the island. Regardless of whether you visit Mykonos for a day or a month, the windmills are probably the most famous attraction of the island. Do not forget to have a camera with you, as you will have the opportunity to admire the picturesque buildings of Mykonos.

What to see in Mykonos Mykonos is a place with a rich history and many beauties. During your stay on the island of winds, seize the opportunity to visit one of the many interesting archeological and historical sites, as well as to admire up close the special traditional Cycladic architecture of the island, but also the beautiful sites of the island.

The «Little Venice» in Mykonos Town The Town or Capital of Mykonos is the ideal place to get

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USEFUL TELEPHONES Mykonos Health Center: 2289360000 KTEL Mykonos: 2289026797 Mykonos Port Authority: 2289022218 Mykonos Police: 22890 22716 Tourist Police: 2289022482 & 22890 22716 Municipality of Mykonos: 2289022201

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The Lighthouse of Armenistis One of the things you will see during your vacation in Mykonos, the historic lighthouse could not be missed. It was built in 1891 and offers one of the most wonderful views on the island. In fact, the island of Tinos seems to be so close that the view will give you the illusion that you can touch the island with your hands. You will also be able to admire the various ferries that come and go on the island as well as the wonderful landscape that surrounds the lighthouse. The Museum of Naval History of the Aegean It opened its doors to the public in 1985 and the Museum of Naval History of the Aegean is the ideal place for those who want to learn about the naval history of the island. We suggest you visit the Museum in a beautiful summer afternoon to admire one of its best exhibits - the living historical restoration of the Armenistis Lighthouse. Where to swim Agios Stefanos: Sandy beach, easily accessible and organized. Wonderful view of the small islands of Delos and Rhenia. Comfortable parking. Korfos: Ideal for those who love windsurfing and just 2.5 km from Chora. Psarou: Celebrity profile beach with clear blue waters and fine light sand. If you want high quality facilities at the beach bars, you will find them here. Restaurants, taverns and shops nearby. It has a diving school and a water sports center. Paradise: Busy beach with all the necessary amenities and loud parties. It has a diving school and a water sports center. Ftelia: North beach with wonderful waters. In recent years, it has attracted windsurf and kitesurf lovers. Prehistoric settlements of a Neolithic settlement have been located between the rocks that separate it in two. Super Paradise: Famous for its beach parties and allday fun mood. Large, beautiful and organized, it mainly attracts the attention of younger ages. It has a diving school and a water sports center. Elia: Popular beach but with a lower profile. It has easy access and options to restaurants and water sports, from water skiing to water parachuting and jet skiing.

lost in its labyrinthine picturesque alleys. The beautiful white buildings, the gardens with colorful flowers are one of the attractions of Mykonos that offer images that will excite your eyesight. Almost every alley leads to the sea where you will find various seaside cafes and bars. There you will find the wellknown little Venice. Looking at the photo you will easily understand why it is so characterized. Do not forget to watch the wonderful sunset while sipping on your drink. The Archaeological Museum of Mykonos Built in 1902, the museum houses many exhibits in the area. It is located in Chora and is considered one of the important cultural attractions for the residents and the visitors of the island.

Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos: At this huge modern aquarium, you can see 2,500 marine species from the underwater world of the Mediterranean, swimming around in 1.7 million liters of seawater.

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DISCOVER A UNIQUE LUXURY HIDEAWAY IN ORNOS, THE HIDDEN TREASURE OF MYKONOS.

KENSHŌ ORNOS IS A FIVE-STAR HOTEL INVITING YOU TO AN EXCLUSIVE VACATION EXPERIENCE.

W W W . K E N S H O M Y K O N O S . C O M

Kalo Livadi: One of the largest beaches on the island in length and width. Organized and with crystal clear waters. Kalafatis: Large beach with coarse sand and tamarisk trees and very popular to water sports lovers. Good recommandation for food in the surrounding taverns. Shack: One of the most beautiful beaches on the island. Small but with strong beach bar, camping and wonderful views of Cape Drapano. Agrari: Nice beach with wonderful waters. The route is a bit difficult but you will be compensated. Suitable for extremely relaxing dives without noise. Ai-Giannis: If you do not like busy beaches, this is the right one. Organized, with many dining options in the surrounding taverns, it overlooks the canal between Mykonos and Delos. Kapari: Right next to the beach of Ai Giannis but more secluded. It is preferred by the people of Mykonos and those who want to have a swim without loud crowds.

Ornos: One of the most famous beaches on the island that has it all. If you like diving, here you will find the relevant school. Ideal for families. Platis Gialos: It is preferred by families, although you will find it at any age. Organized with very frequent transport. Merchia: One of the most remote beaches of the island and ideal for those who want isolation. If you love diving, here you will find interesting seabed. It is 14 km from Chora and the road is inaccessible. You approach it only through your own means. Megali Ammos: One step away from Chora, it is ideal for those who do not like to travel long distnce. Organized and suitable for wind and kite surfing. What are you going to do • If you are a fan of diving then visit the nearby rocky islets of Tragonisi, Prasonissia and Octopus. • In Ftelia, Megali Ammos and Korfos you can do windsurfing and kitesurfing while Elia, Psarrou, Paradise and Super Paradise are offered for various other water sports. • Those of you who love to explore, then take out a compass for Platys Gialos. Near the beach, in the area of Lino, there are the ruins of an ancient tower 10 m in diameter with traces of a fortified enclosure and two early Christian churches next door. • Also nearby, in the area of the Byzantine church of Kouzis, there is the ancient well of Giannaros, an underground tank made of granite with a staircase that takes you to the water. There is also the possibility to discover the island by horse riding or cycling. • For those of you who love Instagram, make a stop at Houlakia. The beach is named after the prehistoric pebbles that rise in and out of the sea, so you will not be able to swim. But you will get the most perfect photos. • Generally Mykonos is changing, developing and progressing, with awareness but also excessive effort, since the people of Mykonos are one of the most hardworking people. But also with respect, business perfection, professional training and elegance to the «guest» entrepreneurs on the island.

INFO

If you are planning to make a purchase - invest, invest in art. That’s what Minas Jewelry is all about. From the 70’s until today, he has stood out by forming a special aesthetic with the micro-sculpture in his jewelry, directly influenced by Mykonos. You will find them in his famous store opposite Agia Kiriaki, but also inside Jackie ‘O’’s store in Super Paradise. Yes, they are also worn by men.

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STYLE

MINAS A LEGENDARY SIGNATURE THE EMBLEMATIC LEGACY OF STUDIO MINAS' INSPIRER, HIS UNIQUE DESIGN APPROACH AND PRECIOUS CREATIONS CONTINUES THROUGH PAINSTAKING EFFORTS OF MINAS’ TWO SONS.

The Delos ring

The gold 430 classic bracelet

The Iconic gold choker

The gold right hand cuff

tudio Minas was established in Athens in 1981, following a decade of creative exploration and iconic work in New York City. Bearing its creator’s first name, this multi-awarded brand has travelled around the world, winning the admiration of mortals, royalty and rock stars – like Keith Richards who was the designer’s longtime crony. This emblematic legacy has recently continued through the painstaking efforts of Minas’ two sons. “This is a pair of incredibly large shoes to fill in”, explains Prometheus, who just like his predecessor oversees design and production to safeguard the brand’s autonomy and freedom. “It can be overwhelming at times, but every time I find myself stuck, I remember my father’s words: Harmony pre-exists in all of us, you just need to find it”. Growing up in a house where creativity flowed daily, he was inspired to channel his reality through his work. In his world view style is a combination of clean lines and less noise. “There is an incredible amount of thought behind each and every piece. This is why I

take great pride whenever I see people wearing our designs”, he states. His favourite piece is “the one that comes next. The excitement of the “new” and its process is always thrilling to me”, he remarks. Heading a design house that has remained as current and influential as it was more than 40 years ago – when its archetypally fluid creations first appeared across the US, Prometheus sees no bounds to their undertakings. “Our new endeavour is in the field of furniture; we are looking to enrich our collection”, he declares. Inaugurated by a man whose talent found myriad forms of expression, the Minas brand continues to flourish with the new generation at the helm. With their calming simplicity and characteristic curved lines, these eye-pleasing, yet functional creations can be found at the brand’s flagship stores in Athens and Mykonos. _ www.minas-designs.com

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warded makeup artist, beautician and entrepreneur, Despina Gavala has taken upon herself to make the world more beautiful. She studied Literature and Pedagogics at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, but her real passion prevailed. “Make-up artistry has always been my great love,” she says. “Even as far back as my teenage years, I would buy huge quantities of various make-up products and I always felt enchanted by the skill I had, transforming myself and others.” To celebrate her university graduation, she went to Mykonos with friends and was amazed by the island. “It was love at first sight,” she remembers. “So, I decided to stay there and find a job. I started working in a renowned hair salon and my employer half-jokingly urged me to enroll in a beautician school.” Ever since,

WELLNESS

BEAUTYWORLD DESPINA GAVALA HAS CREATED A BEAUTY KINGDOM IN MYKONOS, AND HAS AN ADVICE TO EVERYONE: LOVE AND PAMPER YOURSELF.

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Beautyworld offers premium services, from hair and makeup to advanced aesthetic treatments.

Despina Gavala has dedicated herself to learning everything in her field, constantly updating her knowledge and skills over the past 20 years. In 2003, she opened her own salon on the island, Beautyworld. Her latest endeavor is a collaboration with the exclusive SantAnna Beach Resort in Mykonos. Its uber-trendy, luxurious premises at Paraga house the most advanced and innovative beauty and wellness treatments on the island. Boasting a multifaceted, holistic approach, Beautyworld offers a comprehensive array of premium services, ranging from hair and makeup to advanced, result-driven beauty therapies. Special attention has been paid to ensure privacy and discretion, for a thoroughly indulgent experience. To complement this all-star pampering session, a unique selection of designer clothing, swimwear, collectible jewelry, and watches is also available at the Beautyworld Nail & Hair Spas. It is no wonder then that they have become the stomping ground of celebrities and A-listers like the Kardashian sisters, Naomi Campbell and Lindsay Lohan. Yet, these high-tech temples of beauty are not privy to the world’s famous. “Anyone – a hard-working businesswoman, an executive, a mother, a multitasker – has the right to freshen up her appearance and refuel herself with confidence,” claims Despina Gavala. “Charm certainly comes from within. The process of transformation from an ugly duckling to a swan begins with the right kind of mood. We are just facilitating the emergence of this disposition.”

Keeping up to date with the latest trends, the Beautyworld experts are dedicated to uncovering the best and most beautiful version of one’s self. Urging their visitors to “love themselves,” their aim is to ensure that time spent in their cocooned world is the most cherished part of a client’s day. _ www.beautyworldbydg.gr

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Santorini hides treasures waiting to be discovered

TRAVEL —

Arguably Greece’s most beautiful island, Santorini is a mix of towering cliffs, inky waters and whitewashed villages.

The sunset in Oia is unmatched by anyone It is the place that has been advertised more than any other on the island. Picturesque as it goes, but with thousands of tourists, mostly Chinese, who applaud it ecstatically every time the sun goes down. In Imerovigli, shortly after Fira, on the road to Oia, the sunset from there is just as impressive and less crowded. You will probably enjoy it more.

ramatic, stunning, romantic. Whatever adjectives you put next to the island of Santorini are not enough to describe it to the absolute degree. Full of contrasts, but also with an unparalleled style, it welcomes millions of visitors every summer from all over the world. If you look a little better, you will understand that Santorini has much more to offer you besides the sunset you have seen in countless postcards.

Firostefani: The «eyebrow» of the caldera You can reach Firostefani from Fira, following the «eyebrow» of the caldera and covering a distance of about 10 minutes on foot. Firostefani, which has always been the favorite stop of every visitor to the island, owes its name to the fact that it «crowns» Fira. The view of the caldera is simply unbeatable, with the cliff being so steep that many times your heart will beat louder. In Firostefani, you will find several remarkable recommendations for food, restaurants and taverns at a chill out ambience.

The «Volcanoes» The island is known for its Volcano. It consists of several smaller islands, such as Palia and Nea Kameni, which all together once formed the island of Strongyli. Its central part was blown up in 1613 BC. and formed what we now call the caldera of Santorini. So, we are talking about an island that has a huge history. The most famous event of the island is the «Volcanoes» that are organized every August. It is the representation of the eruption of the volcano with thousands of fireworks illuminating the sky, creating a fantastic spectacle!

Akrotiri: Τhe most important archaeological discovery It is the most important archaeological discovery of the Eastern Mediterranean. Akrotiri (means cape) is a picturesque village in the southwestern part of the island, about 10 km from Fira. The most important attraction in Akrotiri is the prehistoric settlement, which was first inhabited around 4500 BC. and came to light after the systematic excavations that began in 1967. Last year, the most visited archeological site was upgraded and acquired a new bioclimatic shelter, attracting thousands of visitors. Do not miss the opportunity

The heart of Santorini beats in Fira The capital of the island is the place where you will spend most of your afternoons. You will find yourself wandering in its narrow streets, you will buy local products, you will eat, drink and take the best photos overlooking the Aegean Sea. To enjoy your vacation in Fira to the fullest, you can climb the 588 steps from the Old Port. An alternative is the cable car (tel. +30 22860 22977, +30 22860 23045), which runs daily every 20 minutes, from 07:00 to 22:20.

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USEFUL TELEPHONES IN SANTORINI Municipality of Thira 2286022231 Health Center 2286022237 Port Authority 2286022239 Police 2286022649 Airport 2286028400 TAXI 2286022555 BUS 2286025404 Information Office 2286025940

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Do not ride a donkey. This nice animal may be a symbol for Santorini, but in recent years the locals have used it to an incredible unpleasant way in order to make money. We do not need to bother them anymore.

to visit one of the most important «historical relics» of Greece (and not only Santorini).

get there of course, you need a short walk, so put the sneakers in your bag.

Pyrgos: The most beautiful village of Santorini Village-jewel, a pole of attraction for thousands of visitors every year, who seek tranquility, natural beauty and quality in everything. Pyrgos, which is approximately 10-minute drive from Fira, is definitely the most beloved village on the island. In 1800 it was the capital of Santorini, while today it manages, through the impressive architecture, the curves and the beautiful alleys, the whitewashed alleys and the infinite churches with the «painted» domes, to keep the glamor of the past unchanged.

On the white beach the scenery changes. Here things are different. This beach is more reminiscent of Milos and not of Santorini, due to its lunar landscape. It is accessible only by sea and is considered one of the most beautiful places on the island.

The beaches where you will take a dive The main color shades of the beaches of Santorini, then, are three. Black, white and red!

The foods you should try Probably the most gastronomic island of the Aegean Sea with a series of excellent local products but also restaurants that highlight and give another dimension to the products and the Greek cuisine. So, your experience on the island will be complete only by tasting the cuisine of some of the distinguished and award-winning chefs of the island, who passionately cook and give soul to local products. Santorini is famous for its traditional dishes. You will definitely try fava beans, tomato meatballs, of which the locals are proud, but also their local salad with plenty of capari.

Santorini has «hidden» hot springs Okay, they may not be exactly «hidden» if we consider that the whole island is a volcanic rock, but they are certainly not famous, such as of Iceland’s. You will feel them when you swim in warmer waters, from the change of color - the intense blue becomes dark brown.

Black sand dominates. In most of the beaches of the island you will find black sand, which has naturally come from the volcano. Perissa, Perivolos, Kamari, Monolithos, look more or less alike. The first two are the most famous on the island, with Perivolos being a hangout for young people. There you will find many beach bars, sunbeds, music and parties from morning to night. On the contrary, in Kamari and Monolithos you will see several families and small children.

Stay in a cave The architecture of Santorini is unique. The caves, the houses that the locals dug on the rock to protect themselves from the winds, are unique in their kind.

The red beach is breathtaking. This is a really impressive setting. A huge red rock and orange sand full of sunbeds. It is worth visiting at least once. To

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Walking on the Volcano of Santorini. If you want to do something different from the usual, you can book a tour on the island of Nea Kameni opposite and look closer to the crater that once destroyed the civilization of the island.

mainly for the manufacture of construction materials. The Suez Canal, for example, was built on the soil of Santorini!

In modern Santorini, great architects turned them into wonderful living spaces. It is worth even for one night to feel their claustrophobic feeling, the characteristic smell of the rock, the immediacy they have with the Caldera…

Do not limit yourself to Fira and Oia Santorini has wonderful villages and is worth a road trip to the mountains and the many unknown inland villages: Emporio which is the largest village and has an impressive medieval Kastelli, the cave settlement of Vothonas 3.3 km from Fira, the neighboring living Mesaria village which was the center of industrial development in Santorini in the 19th century, Karterados south of Fira which during the 19th century was one of the largest captain villages of the island, the small village of Vourvoulos in the northeast, Exo Gonia in the south which is built on a slope, the adjacent Diocese of Gonia with the famous church of Panagia Episkopi, the traditional Megalochori near Fira with its magnificent architecture and of course the medieval village of Pyrgos that dominates the slope of Profitis Ilias and overlooks the whole of Santorini. The first capital of the island until 1800 is a castle that retains the characteristics of the Venetian Empire, dotted with churches while mansions and village houses are in harmonious coexistence.

Some believe that Atlantis is located around Santorini Santorini is one of the 200 places on the planet, which various theories associate the island with the mythical Lost Atlantis. There are many who believe that the mythical ruins of Atlantis are buried at the bottom of the sea, around Santorini and that the popular island was once the mythical site that researchers are looking for. The stories of the two destinations, however, are similar: Santorini was destroyed by a series of eruptions thousands of years ago and Atlantis is supposed to have sunk when its inhabitants angered the Gods. The effects of the tsunami still exist thousands of years ago Visitors to Santorini can still see in various parts of the island the consequences of the tsunami that once passed near Crete and created what we now call the caldera of Santorini. Scientists, in fact, recently discovered a bottom layer 20 meters below sea level, with pebbles and rocks with mollusks and other organisms, which tend in the same direction. Thus, they prove that strong currents of water pass quickly over the area.

TIP! Do not forget to go down the 214 steps that separate Oia from the picturesque Ammoudi, where you will enjoy guaranteed fresh fish.

What product does Santorini produce? The main exportable product of the island is… the soil. About 2 million tons of soil are exported every year,

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Exploring new destinations

TRAVEL —

From glorious beaches to mystical ruins. Find out why Crete is one of the best destinations for a summer holiday.

nique landscape, unsurpassed culture, special people. The reason for Crete, which is famous for many, but also for its uniquely beautiful beaches. Every area in Crete has something different to offer to travelers. Wherever you go, you will have the opportunity to admire unique landscapes, to get in touch with Cretan nature, tradition and culture, to live amazing experiences, to try well-cooked food with excellent raw materials but also the famous local products. You will see the Cretan villagers dressed in their special black clothes, enjoying their coffee early in the morning or in the afternoon at the cafes in the picturesque squares of the villages, giving the feeling that time may not have passed here. See charming archeological sites, crystal clear green seas, stony beaches and palm trees! Above all you will come in contact with famous Cretan hospitality and you will hear «mantinades» (traditional centuries-old poems).

Chania is also a perfect resting place for many trip destinations. Arriving at the old port of Chania you think you are traveling in space-time. The influences of Ottoman rule and Venetian rule are obvious, giving an air of another era and strongly highlighting the multiculturalism of the city! Take a tour of the villages of Vammos. From Chania you will head southeast to the Municipality of Vammos. From the main village of Vammos, you will drive east to the village of Kefala, from there north you will reach Kokkino Chorio and you will return back from another route, to Gavalochori. These charming villages - with their characteristic architecture - are a fusion of the past centuries. The inhabitants will welcome you and take care of you - with homemade sweets and treats like «skaltsounia». Visit the Folklore Museum in Gavalochori and admire «Kopaneli», as this is the original birthplace of this artistic fabric technique. Enjoy the wonderful view of northern Crete and the White Mountains, meet locals in the main squares and breathe the fresh air from the mountains that surround you and become the traditional of Kteros. In the villages you will also find special traditional taverns to enjoy fresh local specialties.

The most important advice If you do not get on the island in your own car, you should definitely rent one. There are many rental companies and all kinds of cars for all tastes and budgets. However, you should rent a reliable car as a road trip will lead you to, among other places, mountainous areas and impassable roads.

A visit to Heraklion is must! If gorgeous views, Greek mythology, and history pique your interest, consider paying a visit to Heraklion. You can easily spend a morning or afternoon strolling

Start from Chania If you choose to arrive in Chania first except for the days that you (definitely) will need in the beautiful city,

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Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos: At this huge modern aquarium, you can see 2,500 marine species from the underwater world of the Mediterranean, swimming around in 1.7 million liters of seawater.

around the Old Town, seeing the sites and soaking up the atmosphere. Heraklion grew up around the sea, and still today, the old town focuses on the harbor. You have the opportunity to take a walk on the beach and in the city center to the famous lions and see the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, which is well worth a visit. It has been renovated and opened all its wings in 2015 and houses old and new collections of ancient objects. The large collections of samples of Minoan works of art are perhaps the most representative samples of Minoan civilization and are one of the best and most complete collections in the world!

thur Evans began excavating and restoring one of the largest and most famous palaces and centers of Minoan civilization. Evans continued the excavations until 1931 and since then they continue in the wider area of Knossos. There isn’t much left of Phaestos, but the stone foundations are largely intact and allow you to picture the layout of this ancient Minoan palace. A grand staircase rises up to a long courtyard, and there are many subterranean storage vaults to stimulate your speculation. From the periphery of the site, the panoramic views across the plain are splendid and you can also catch a balmy bit of sea breeze.

Knossos and Phaestos You may not find the labyrinth and the Minotaur but you will find the ruins of the historic palace that after about 3,000 years from the flourishing and destruction of the Minoan civilization, Knossos was located in 1878 by the Minos Summer. Thus, in 1900, Sir Ar-

The old town of Rethymnon Rethymnon is the best-preserved Renaissance city in Greece. Wander its cobbled streets and the Fortezza. In the city you will find excellent food in the taverns while those who wish will continue to go to the beach with the intense night life!

TRAVELLERS’ CHOICE AWARDS Their annual lists of the top destinations for 2022 were announced TripAdvisor Travelers Choice Awards. More important is the distinction of Crete, which was found in second place in the list of the most popular destinations in Europe for the current year, while in the corresponding world list, the largest island of our country «landed» in fifth place.

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Three different mountain groups cross across the center of the island, some soaring up to 8000 feet. The result is beautiful mountaintop views, dramatic gorges, and fertile valleys.

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Life experience in the Samaria Gorge The passage of this gorge is considered a life experience, as it is the most famous gorge in Greece and probably in the whole of Europe! You should definitely go properly equipped, as this is a rugged 14 km route, where you will enjoy the lush vegetation gradually giving way to a wild landscape of special beauty. You will feel awe facing the narrowest point of the gorge, the Iron Gates, while you must make a stop in the abandoned village of Samaria. At the end of the -reasonably arduous- route the clear blue waters of Agia Roumeli are a liberating view and a good choice for a little coolness while diving in their arms!

CRETE IS A BEACH!

Different beaches, but all special and unique with landscapes that transfer you to exotic places. Some with dunes, others with pink sand, with a background of castles, with a cedar forest reaching to the water, beaches accessible only from the sea, in the shadow of rocks hundreds of meters. Frangokastelo is a beach against the backdrop of a castle. The waters are extremely shallow, making the beach ideal for children. Glyka near: A truly stunning beach that stretches under an absolutely imposing landscape, with cliffs that rise up to 500 meters above the coast. The crystal clear and icy waters. Kerdodassos: An amazing beach that is rightly characterized as an earthly paradise.

Gretan Gastronomy The most important products of the Cretan land are olives and olive oil, grapes, citrus and generally fruit, tsikoudia, dairy, apaki, sour sausages, breads and nuts, thyme honey, stamnagathi, wild herbs and vegetables, sultanas, carobs, herbs and herbs. The Cretan diet today is known all over the world. It has attracted the interest of the scientific community since 1948, when the Rockefeller Foundation conducted research in Crete on the diet that would be the model of Mediterranean Cuisine, which in 2012 was recognized by UNESCO as Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Crete is a botanical paradise with over 1700 species of plants, of which 159 are endemic. Cretan cuisine uses herbs and especially oregano, thyme, rosemary, mint, cumin and fennel, while Cretans love to brew malotira (mountain tea), erontas (dittany), sage, marjoram and chamomile. Mizithra, xinomyzithra (but also other soft cheeses) accompany the fresh fruit. Staka it is used in many Cretan dishes and it tastes unique and stakobutyro has a strong, special aroma. Of the dozens of recipes of the island, the most typical dishes of Cretan cuisine are: in salads and vegetables zaros (rusk, tomato, oil, oregano), artichokes, broad beans, askolymbros, stamnagathia. Also, the Cretans make their own pasta (such as sioufika spaghetti, mangiri).

Elafonissi: A few meters beyond the usually quiet Kedrodassos is the popular Elafonissi. Turquoise waters, pink sand and incredible landscape with the strong dose of exoticism. Gramvousa: With the castle built by the Venetians, is a peninsula to the west of which stretches the enchanting beach of Balos, one of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean, awarded as one of the best in the world by TripAdvisor. Very fine white and red sand, shallow waters and at some point a lagoon with clear turquoise waters. Falassarna: Crystal water and an endless sandy beach. The white and red color of the sand as well as the view of the imposing mountains that surround it make the landscape unique. Vai Palm Forest: Τhe most famous beach of eastern Crete with the only palm forest in Europe, Vai. The scenery refers to a tropical coast. Agia Fotia: About 12 km east of Ierapetra is the cosmopolitan beach of Agia Fotia. This is a bay well protected from the winds, with many pines and olive trees on the beach, clear-blue waters and sandy beach. Kommos: It is only 5-minute drive from Matala. There was once the port of Phaistos, built in 2000 BC. Sandy beach with gray sand, undoubtedly one of the largest and cleanest in Crete.

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Mani: unique beauty and rich history

TRAVEL —

The Mani region of Greece is going to ensure you have the most awesome travel experience ever. It’s a haven of natural beauty and tranquility.

n recent years, Mani has risen to the preferences of travelers from around the world. A destination ideal for all seasons invites anxious explorers to travel to Laconian Mani and take a trip back in time, to towers, battles and unspoiled nature.

It may not be famous for its vast beaches or feverish nightlife, but it has imposing landscapes, famous caves, gorges and architecture, historical monuments, opportunities for alternative tourism and secluded destinations, and combines excellent mountain and sea, seeing at the same time, bays the Laconic (Prosilia Mani) and the Messinian (Aposkiaderi). Many attractions for the visitor Smashing routes, coastal and mountainous, rich history, tradition and flavors. Villages built of stone with impressive tower houses, such as the preserved Vathia, Ano Verga, Limeni, Skoutari, Gerolimenas, Mountanistika, Haria, Koita, Drymos, Mina, Nomia, Saidona, Istia, Lagia, Kardamili, and picturesque towns, such as Oitylos, Areopolis and Gythio. Beautiful coves and beaches, with sand or pebbles, crystal clear waters and rich marine life that includes sea turtles, seals and dolphins. Impressive natural monuments, such as the Cave of Diros, Cape Tainaro, where the Gate of Hell in antiquity, the «Pyramid» of Taygetos and the coast Shelter with the labyrinthine underground cave.

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Taste olive oil, honey, sourdough bread, rusks, sphela, mizithra, siglino, lalagia, salted quail, diples, kourabiedes, xilopites, trachana, lupina, local herbs and spices, capers, salt flower.

The towers of Mani A total of 800 towers, 96 traditional settlements, 1,000 Byzantine churches and hundreds of small and large caves-shelters have been recorded! Unfortunately, the arbitrary construction is present here as well, although efforts are being made to preserve the natural setting and the special architectural character of the area. It is no coincidence that Western Europeans are increasingly interested, mainly in land, real estate, and even permanent settlement in Mani.

Stoupa - Agios Nikolaos, horseback riding in Areopolis, watersports in Limeni, cave diving in Drakos, trekking and mountain climbing. Relaxation centers, massage, spa, meditation, yoga, etc., such as Spirit of Life and Zen Rocks in West Mani are in recent demand. If, again, you want to party at night, Stoupa is the best destination. Where to stay Plenty of traditional and newly built hostels and bungalows at different prices, depending on the location, the season and the services offered. Many room reservations are now made via airbnb. You rent the whole tower!

Alternative activities Sailing in Gythio, scuba diving and mountain biking in Kardamili, hiking or cycling on the special route

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WELCOME TO KYNISKA EXPE RIENCE! Explore the hidden wonders of Peloponnese and discover a world filled with antitheses, an uncharted land where time stands still…

18, L arnakos Str., Alimos, 174 55 Athens, Greece Tel: +30 210 9842155 Email: sales@kyniskahotels.com w w w.kyniskahotels.com

Natural pools: The deep blue

TRAVEL —

Breathtaking images a breath from the sea, under imposing waterfalls, among limestone rocks.

Fonissa Waterfalls, Kythira A utopian destination that truly enchants its visitors in a unique way. One such place on the island is the waterfalls of Fonissa or Neraida, which for many, as common as it sounds, is the earthly paradise of Kythera. Ιn the western part of the island, in the beautiful and green village of Mylopotamos with the characteristic paved square, you can find this idyllic and enchanting landscape: waterfalls 20 meters high with bright waters that fall hermetically and form a natural lake about 3 meters deep. Big trees, which for the more adventurous as its waters are quite cold, is an ideal choice for refreshing longboats. Τhe unique and magical beauty that one sees once one is here creates the impression that only airy creatures can live here, like fairies. That is why the location has been given the name of Fairy Waterfalls. Just beyond the waterfalls are the abandoned watermills of the village, as well as other ponds that complete the fairytale setting.

he natural pools of the country, which have been formed over the years under imposing waterfalls, among limestone rocks, even a breath from the sea.

Giola, Thassos On the green island of Thassos, international media have described it as an «earthly paradise», the visitor has to discover beautiful beaches with the green reaching almost to the waters of the Aegean. However, what will forever be etched in his memory is the wild landscape that he will see as soon as he approaches Giola, the natural pool of the island. A real little miracle, which is interpreted by the inhabitants of Thassos as a gift. In the southeastern part of the island, near Astrida, the natural pool that has been created in a rock, with the crystal clear waters and the stony bottom a breath from the blue of the Aegean, leaves the visitor literally speechless. Giola was formed over the centuries with the waves of the sea and the rocks that surround it to be in fact its creators. At a depth of three meters, its waters are warmer than those of the sea that embrace its outer side and which are located 8 meters below undertaking the “supply” of the pool with its waves. In fact, according to the legend, Giola’s natural pool was created by Zeus in order for Aphrodite to enjoy her bath in it. That is why you will hear many call her the «tear of Aphrodite». Yet another myth claims that it was Jupiter’s eye to watch her.

Gala, Ano Koufonisia The white pebble gives its color to the waters of the Aegean and turns the scenery on Gala beach (gala means milk, from there its name inspired) in Koufonisia into a real dream. A small crater in the sea creates this unique natural landscape, which causes awe and admiration to anyone who manages to get here. To reach this wonderful natural pool you have to come on foot from Pori and walk about five minutes. The path leads to the edge of the rock, around which you will

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Gala, Ano Koufonisia

Fonissa Waterfalls

Sarakiniko, Milos

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According to Greek mythology, Zeus once wanted to create a natural pool, in which the goddess Aphrodite would bathe. This is how he created Giola in Thassos, one of the most photographed places in Greece.

descend to the small beach. The most daring, if the water is calm, you can dive under the rock and get out of the outside of the pool in the Aegean waters. You can also explore the Xylombati caves and the Devil’s Eye.

by beautiful rocks, where you can spread your towels. Plus the fact that its waters are crystal clear. Vathres, Samothrace If one element characterizes Samothrace, it is none other than the metaphysical green of its mountainous beauty. A rather strong advantage, which makes it not an exclusively summer destination, like most islands in our country. On the island of mystery and rare beauty, the pedestals are the ones that impress the visitors, which in fact for most are a synonym of Samothrace. The successive natural ponds that are formed in the rocks with the crystal clear, deep green waters attract like other sirens the visitors of the island, to enchant them with their incomparable aesthetic natural beauty. The most famous of all is that of Fonia, the most famous gorge of Samothrace. To reach it one has to walk for about half an hour, however the landscape he will face with the huge waterfall forming at the end an impressive, crystal river pool will really reward him with more.

Polylimnio, Messinia A landscape of incredible natural beauty, which gives the idea that it has sprung from a painting. Polylimnio of Messinia is an earthly paradise, with gurgling running waters, ponds and waterfalls that impresses. In fact, there are many who call the area the «blue lake» of Messinia. At a distance of about half an hour from Kalamata, this “miracle” of nature is located, with its wonderful images, colors and sounds that remain indelibly in the memory. The waters meet on many levels, while passing through the gorge of Polylimni. The lakes here are a unique habitat, where one can observe butterflies, lepidoptera, insectivorous birds, as well as small fish, freshwater crabs, amphibians and reptiles. Sarakiniko, Milos It is one of the most impressive beaches in the whole country. On the island that counts more than 70 amazing beaches (all one and one), then, the undisputed protagonist is Sarakiniko. Its special lunar landscape - its fame makes the rounds of the world and gathers every year on the island countless tourists who come to discover it up close - is due to the interesting rock formations of limestone rocks and is located in the northern part of the island, at a distance of 10 ′ by car from Adamas, the port of Milos. Characteristic are the caves created by the penetration of rocks in the waters of the Aegean as well as the small natural pools in places. In Sarakiniko there is a small sandy beach for beach lovers, while in most of the place it is flooded

Kolimbithres, Papigo The natural pools in the limestone pits in Papigo, created by the waters of the Rogovo stream, are one of the most impressive places in the famous village of Ioannina. Also known as Kolimbithres, during the summer they are suitable even for diving, at least for the most daring. Nevertheless, in all seasons of the year, the famous Kolimbithres and the natural landscape around them enchant the visitor, with the dense vegetation, the waterfalls, the rocks and the successive “pools” to create a scene of unique beauty, taken from fairy tales. The stream of Rogovo starts from Lapatos, the western peak of Tymfi, and passes through the traditional settlements of Mikro and Megalo Papigo.

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Unknown Museums in Athens you should visit

TRAVEL —

The hidden places that narrate from the beginning important points of the great history of Greece.

ou have taken your walks in the Archaeological Museum, you have guided tourist friends in our pride, the Acropolis Museum, you have drunk coffee in the courtyard of the Greek Mint Museum (Nοmismatic Museum), which was once the house of Henry Schliemann. Time to get to know the smaller - but no less interesting - unknown museums of Athens. For lovers of history, but also for those who are eagerly trying to discover the hidden treasures in any corner of the world, no matter where they travel, museums will always be a main destination, able to tell the reality of another world, several times older and other times more modern than the one in which we live.

collection of more than 600 Greek musical instruments, dating from the 18th century to the present, is the work and research of the musicologist Fivos Anoyanakis, collected over 40 years from Greece and Asia Minor. Half of Anoyanakis’ original collection is on public display at the three floors of the museum. The displayed instruments have been selected for their ethnological, musicological and aesthetic value and are exhibited in groups based on genre (membranophones, aerophones, chordophones, idiophones). Entrance is free of charge. Ilias Lalaounis Jewellery Museum 12 Kallisperi st, Athens www.lalaounis-jewelrymuseum.gr

Museum of Greek Folk Musical Instruments 1 Diogenous st, Athens www.athensmuseums.net

The Ilias Lalaounis Jewelry Museum (ILJM) is the first museum devoted to the art of Jewelry in Greece and one of three of its kind in the world. It is a not-for-profit cultural organisation that acts as an international center for the study and promotion of decorative and traditional crafts with an emphasis on Jewelry. The perfect museum for those who prefer their history lessons to sparkle. In a handsome building that once served as the workshop of Ilias Lalaounis, Greek jeweller to the stars, this museum tells the story of adornment through the ages. The glittering collections are based on motifs and artefacts from the Stone Age, the Minoan civilisation and Byzantium, all the way to the 20th century. The most eye-catching items are the massive gold pieces, almost like armour, displayed on life-sized mannequins: huge circular plates dripping with gold discs, and a thick serpent twined from neck to breast. But it’s in the foyer that you’ll find this museum’s rarest showing: a fully func-

The Museum of Greek Folk Musical Instruments (MELMOKE) is a not so well-known museum in Athens, but it is an interesting alternative, especially for those who are interested in music and/or ethnography or for those who want to learn something different. MELMOKE comprises the collection of about 1200 Greek popular musical instruments dating from the 18th century to the present day, the fruit of a half century of research and study by the musicologist Fivos Anoyanakis. “MELMOKE” was established and functions since June 1991 as public entity supported by the Greek Ministry of Culture. Also it is a museum and a Research Center for Ethnomusicology established in 1991 and housed in the Lassanis Mansion in Plaka, a lovely neoclassical building dating back to 1942. The

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Bath House of the Winds

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tioning artists’ studio, where resident goldsmiths and silversmiths follow traditional techniques, including Lalaounis’ trademark practices of hand-hammering, hand-weaving, filigree ‘embroidery’ and granulation.

divided into antique, veteran, vintage, classic and contemporary. Everything from horseless carriages and a Model T Ford (the first ‘real’ car) to a fleet of flame-red Ferraris. There’s also a small section devoted to models from the little-known and short-lived Greek car industry. Petrolheads of all ages will love it.

Bath House of the Winds 8 Kirristou st, Athens

Athens City Museum 5-7 Paparigopoulou St, Athens athenscitymuseum.gr

One of the few remnants of Athens’ Ottoman period, this 17th-century hammam (Turkish bath) is also the only intact public bath building in the city – though it unfortunately no longer functions as such. As a museum, though, it’s quite attractive and atmospheric, with music, sound and a few projections conjuring its glory days as you stroll through the various rooms. The tour is led by a digital app that immerses you in the sounds and rituals of this once bustling bath-house. You’ll hear the merry chat, laughter and live music that once played in the galleried changing rooms, as bathers stripped off to towels and clogs. Follow in their footsteps into the snug tepidarium, where warm temperatures gently prepared pores for the beauty treatments ahead in the caldarium - a steamy chamber heated by underground cisterns (still visible in places). Here, attendants would rub, scrub, exfoliate, sluice, shave and apply henna to bathers. Though the tradition of communal bathing has been recorded since the 5th century BC in Athens, this particular hammam was first mentioned in 1677 as the Hammam of Abid Efendi. In the late 19th century, separate quarters for men and women were added. The bath-house functioned until 1956, then lay empty for three decades before it was restored and reopened as a museum.

The Athens City Museum is found in two interconnected buildings, with paintings, engravings, sculptures, furniture and important documents of a wealthy middle-class Athenian household in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The neoclassical house at No.7 belonged to Stamatios Dekozis-Vouros (1792-1881), a wealthy banker from Chios island, but it is known as the Old Palace as it became the residence of the first royal couple, King Otto and Queen Amalia (1836-1843), when the capital of Greece moved to Athens. The so-called New Building at No.5 preserves the memories and history of the Dekozis-Vouros family. Founded in 1834, it is one of the oldest museums in Greece and boasts a collection of more than 500,000 exhibits related to the history of money since the 14th c. BC. It also exhibits medals as well as a significant number of Byzantine and medieval coins. Before you jump in though, you may want to take a moment to look at the bigger picture: the beautiful, 19th-c. mansion designed by Ernst Ziller as a residence for his friend Heinrich Schliemann, the man often heralded as the “father of archaeology” for his discoveries at Mycenae and Troy.

Hellenic Motor Museum Ioulianou 33 -35 & C’ Septemvriou 74-78, Athens www.hellenicmotormuseum.gr Hellenic Motor Museum occupies 4.000 sqm. in a unique building in terms of architecture and design. Its exhibitions are dedicated to the evolution of the car and display more than 110 cars from the 19th and the 20th century. It is located in the heart of Athens, just a few minutes away from the National Archaeological Museum. Not renowned for its automotive tradition, Greece might seem an odd place for a motor museum. But there are many super-car collectors in Greece, many of them ship-owners with a penchant for sleek, fast-moving machines. One such magnate is Theodore Haragionis, whose car collection got so out of control that he created a museum to house it. Parked on three levels is a rotating display from his 300-strong collection,

Hellenic Motor Museum

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ISSUE № 03

SUMMER 2022

Vourakis Jewellers, Athens

Design

D E S IG N L OV E S G R E E C E . Architecture emanates or even co-shapes the values of an era. It thus affects the space, the way but also the time we live. Modern designers are inspired by Greek culture and create imaginative objects.

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“In my office in Exarchia I always put music, something I do not do in my office in Mykonos, there I can see it.”

includes studies on the island of Mykonos. Its architecture is emotionally intertwined with the place and the natural environment of the island. It refuses to be imposed on the space as the main concern is to create a coupling between functionality and elegance in order to house the daily moments of the owners.

Nature, pure lines and stones Key features of its architectural compositions are the stone, which by its nature, as hard and absolute tends to come in harmony with the loving wood and the rocks, which borrows them from the natural environment to place them strategically in places outside and interiors, as well as be led by them to the composition of installation and integration of the building. At the same time, the pure lines, the cube-shaped whitewashed houses, the red of cadmium in the interiors and the nobility of the Aegean white create a beautiful and special shelter.

Dimitris Mantikas: Mykonian landscape The materials from Mykonos are the physical embodiment of a love affair, with all the turmoil and excitement that pathos usually brings along with it.

Myconian lover His love for the Mykonos island is evident from the works he created throughout his career and they represent his special style and technique. His source of inspiration was the constant movement and dynamics of the island that can channel new conceptions and inspirations in his mind. He mentions characteristically in the documentary edited by Christos N. Karakasis for Kouinta Production: “In my office in Exarchia I always put music, something I do not do in my office in Mykonos, there I can see it.” Undoubtedly, Mykonos attracted his talent and he was left to surrender, to freely use the aura of the island, to carve it, to design it and to build it, in an effort not to go beyond the natural line of creation and to become her companion.

Dimitris Mantikas is an architect who has built more than 200 houses in Myconos since 1981, is left to the inspiration brought in by the strong Meltemi wind whipping the hillside. He ponders upon the challenges of the deteriorating ground and the clusters of rocks that need to be preserved. He has to take everything into account: the strong winds, the ever-changing course of the sun, the durability of his designs, the environmental impact of the structure and, of course, the view from the finished edifice. Architect Dimitris Mantikas was born in Istanbul in 1951. He holds a diploma from the French Government (D.P.L.G) and studied at the Ecole Nationale Superieure d’Architecture (U.P.1) in Paris. His professional career is composed, among others, of the originality and authenticity of the constructions, his participation in international architectural competitions and his thirty-year work, which mainly

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STYLE

SOPHIA VICTORATOU ART LOVER SOPHIA VICTORATOU DRAWS INSPIRATION FROM MUSIC AND NATURE TO DESIGN SHOW-STOPPING, ALBEIT UTTERLY WEARABLE, SHOES FOR CONTEMPORARY GODDESSES.

ophia Victoratou has experimented with painting on shoes since she was little. She studied architecture, fashion design, and styling, but shoe design won: “This was the only way I could freely express myself,” she says. Inspired by all things positive, Sophia’s creations make bold statements. “Shoes are capable of transforming even the dullest outfit. Make the right choice, and you get more confidence. Which is what counts.” Apart from striking and unique they are comfortable too. “I am partial to high heels, so I pay special attention to reinforcement. We don’t want the wearer to suffer!” After all, Sophia’s brand addresses dynamic women who are not afraid to stand out. “Like Julia Roberts, who I’d love to see in my shoes,” she concludes. Considering that they have already traveled to the US, it is a possibility. _ www.sophiavictoratou.com

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Greek design: Take a piece of Greece with you

DESIGN —

Greece, widely known for its ancient art and culture, is increasingly becoming a hub for creative and award-winning international talents in contemporary design. — BY FILIA MITROMARA

seum of Cycladic Art commenting that the history of the Greek nation remains a huge influence, but the young creators are ready to reinterpret the episodes of Greek mythology to create new illustrations. In the Shop of the Museum of Cycladic Art one can find faithful copies of Cycladic figurines but also creations of young Greek artists with a characteristic creative way and signature.

ods, ancient columns, copies of temples, faithful copies of antiquities... Memorabilia that the visitors of the country took with them on their return - and their aesthetics - were unchanged for decades. Now a new generation of creators is changing their face.

How can a Greek creator of useful and decorative objects create something in relation to the culture and the dominant culture of the country, overcoming the huge shadow and at the same time the direct reflection of the faithful reference to antiquity and current life. To transcend the reef of folklore and the typical depiction of the glorious past, the answer is given in practice by the creative Greek designers.

These expressive talents seek to create a beauty with durability, responsibility towards the environment and work as much as they can with the recycling of materials. The case of Spyros Kizis created by Locul Design is also special, referring extensively to the chair he created under the title Artichair, using as a raw material wild artichoke that he turned into a kind of «ecological plastic».

For a long time, dominated by an overwhelming cultural heritage, Greek creation began to take off as new talents are freed from the greatness and weight of Greek antiquity, but without being deprived of it, without turning their backs on it. Items that we mainly find in specialty stores or museum shops. The case of the «Sophia» brand is typical. There is a reference to busts of gods, columns, in bright and even neon colors, objects made by hand, which can be found today in the shops of the Louvre Museum or in the British Museum. The creator of «Sophia», Alexandra Alevra, started her business in 2014, in the midst of the dire financial crisis.

The article points out that many of these young creators travel a lot. It refers to the case of the architect Myrsini Alexandridis who lives between Stockholm and Athens and to the constant reports she has from her homeland, namely the Greek islands, in her creations. Reference is also made to Forget Me Not, which has been created in the shadow of the Acropolis, where it was the first house of Theodoros Kolokotronis. Stergios Fotiadis of We design studio refers to the great weight and importance of the handicraft tradition in Greece, opening a discussion on the difference

Tina Daskalantonaki, curator of the Shop of the Mu-

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Items that we find in museum shops, items that tourists love to buy to bring with them as memorabilia from Greece. There is a much larger and wider field of designers who create beyond this territory.

between the professions of craftsman and artist. On the outskirts of Athens, tourists find the studios of the creators who use mainly marble, clay, textiles and the brass pendants by Ioanna Koulouris of Meet the Cat. Padatif, which are actually small pieces of handicrafts like the ones our grandmothers made for the tablecloths they laid on the Sunday family tables.

market. Among their most impressive designs are four decorative figurines out of white matt ceramic, inspired by and created for the New Acropolis Museum. Spyros Drakos created his own sophisticated, yet simple label, The Simple Life Project: Wood Stories. Always keeping the functionality of the object in mind when he designs, he delivers high-quality individual and refined wooden constructions, tailored to meet quotidian needs.

Vast Design, by brothers Vasilis and Stathis Petropoulos successfully joined the contemporary design market and promotes its product collections worldwide. Decorative and utilitarian ceramics, porcelain and furniture are only some of their creations, always inspired and based on simplicity, function and aesthetics. Vast Design stands out for the imaginative toy design, as well as its illustration services for the children’s book

Crafts and design as arts are developing in Greece in recent years at a very fast pace, although often in the country itself they are not aware of their rapid development - many do not even know the names and elements.

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DESIGN —

Ceramic Art: The new zen

Why did the «New York Times» write that it is the «new yoga»?

ou will have seen it on Instagram or a friend will have told you: Ceramic art is gaining ground as a hobby. Not only because it resembles meditation and gives space to our creativity, but also it restores our relationship with touch, soil and fire, away from screens.

With its inception lost in the prehistoric times, it thrived during the Greek antiquity in an inspired verve of shapes, colours, figures. Storage-jars, amphoras, kraters, jugs, and lekythoi reflect the everyday habits and the traditions of the society that produced them and they give evidence about that society, as pottery accounts for the most numerous objects of the same category found in any archaeological excavation.

When you put your hands to clay, the natural inclination to form, shape, and ultimately create something from the fine-grained soil is inescapable. Ceramics are perhaps the most ubiquitous of all art forms to have emerged from human history. The art of ceramics has endured for eons, with a rich legacy of thousands of years of creation and know-how, passed down from generation to generation.

In the modern era, new morphologic and technical features have been added to making ceramics. Earthenware

Ceramics (derived from «Keramos», Greek for «potter’s clay») is one of the most ancient industries going back thousands of years. Even though there is a long history of ceramic art in almost all developed cultures, it particularly thrived during Greek antiquity in an inspired verve of shapes, colors, and figures. In fact, many art critics consider Greek pottery to represent the zenith of ceramic art; but despite the aesthetic achievements of many outstanding Greek ceramicists, the plastic art of pottery in Classical Antiquity was never as widely respected as fine art.

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The relationship between hands and clay is the basis of the ceramic art form. Ceramics—in the form of bricks, tiles, vessels, and sculptures—have endured for millennia, and the medium continues to be explored today.

jars have helped storing the harvest, while pitchers and flasks have contained liquids, and cooking-pots and dishes have been used as tableware. The forms have been rather simple, but the decorative touch– an exclusive task of the craftsmen’ wives- has sealed the crafted items with grace and sensitivity. Ornamental patterns such as stripes, coils, lines, flowers, leaves, fish, birds, and ship lift the humble clay up on a level of sheer folk art.

never ceased to drive the hands, the imagination and the artistry of the clay modellers. In recent years, there has been an explosion of interest in ceramics - whether it is Brad Pitt practicing with his friend Leonardo DiCaprio in the studio of the former, or just for all of us who have found a new means of expression. Today, pottery workshops are springing up in the neighborhoods of Athens, while art spaces dedicated to the promotion of ceramics are also opening. Why? Because ceramics is a healing art. The soul heals. The mind calms down during these 3-4 hours that a lesson can last. It offers great satisfaction to make something of your own, with your own hands, it has magical aspects.

The more recent days of glory of the Greek ceramic art have been spent in the mainland (Macedonia, Peloponnese, Thrace, Attica) and on several islands (Thasos, Lesvos, Samos, Crete, Skyros, Aegina, Rhodes, Sifnos). The age-old tradition and the inherited knowledge have

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Amazing Greek hotels in neoclassical buildings

DESIGN —

Discover classy Greek hotels in neoclassical buildings and get ready to be taken away by timeless elegance.

f you walk around Athens, you will discover beautiful buildings that have their history, neoclassical architecture and many of which have now been renovated, acquired new uses, allowing us to enjoy them again in new places that have retained a sweet, nostalgic and manorial character. There is always something about hotels in neoclassical buildings. The majestic facade, the big staircase, the high ceilings and the wooden floors bring in an aura of the past, the glory of a bygone era. Besides the unmatched elegance and grace, these buildings create a sense that the layers of history and the people’s stories live through the walls. Modern-day hotels, however, have long surpassed this tradition and are now hosted in both edgy minimalistic or industrial buildings with great design -and they look amazing too! However, the old fashioned glam never gets actually “old”, thus some of the classiest and most luxurious hotels around the world are nested in beautifully renovated neoclassical buildings. The city lights put the charm, the architecture the finesse and the modern technology, and thus the following hotels emerge that aspire to welcome the visitors of the capital very soon. The Zillers Athens Hotel | Athens A neoclassical building in Plaka thoughtfully reno-

The Zillers Athens Hotel

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vated into a boutique hotel, the Zillers has ten guest rooms and a rooftop restaurant and bar. The building was designed by Ernst Ziller, a German architect whose work can be seen all around Greece, notably at Athens National Theatre, Presidential Mansion, and the Goulandris Museum of Cycladic Art. The original high ceilings, wood floors, and wrought iron-balconies have been retained and refreshed with a modern minimalist decor. The contemporary Greek menu might include shrimp with buffalo milk couscous or sea bass in a dill and lime foam, plus innovative desserts like Greek coffee mousse with olive oil jelly. Location is also faultless, overlooking the Athens Cathedral, and a five-minute walk from Monastiraki or Syntagma Square. Mira Me | Athens Located in a 1925 building in the heart of the city, Mira Me combines a warm atmosphere with a stunning view to the Acropolis. Once a typical Athenian 1925 house with its store on the ground floor, the building has been declared a landmark. The idea was to create an urban boutique hotel with dining areas that serve guests and outsiders, to express the lively character of this unique neighborhood and to bridge tradition with the urban, modern spirit. And it all came through, with the wooden French herringbone floors, rosettes on the ceilings, elegant lamps and marble bathrooms. A classy and fresh new entry to the Greek hotels in neoclassical buildings!

Kyria Boutique House

Monsieur Didot | Athens Located in an impressive neoclassical residence between the chic Kolonaki and the bohemian Exarchia, Monsieur Didot combines classic elegance with cool hospitality. The imposing building, once home of Firmin Didot, a pioneer in typewriting history, dates

back to 1880. It was beautifully restored, keeping its urban character with an ode to the vintage Athens in its design and decor. High, hand-painted ceilings, vintage mosaics and tiny balconies make for the classic and elegant bit, while the brass details and edgy deco items set the modern time-frame.

Monsieur Didot

Kyria Boutique House | Athens An 1863-Athenian historical building situated in a few meters far from Acropolis Eastern Entrance and Dionysiou Areopagitou pedestrian. Once the home of Aliki and Giovanni – star-crossed lovers circa 1900 who married in the residence’s courtyard – the beauty of this enduring love can still be felt within the hotel, like a blooming rose growing through the centuries. With a roof garden facing the Acropolis, classic and elegant rooms that hint at its past with many small vintage details, and only one minute far from the Acropolis Metro, this is an ideal hotel to stay. It is definitely one of the most popular neighborhoods to stay in Acropolis.

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Aristide Hotel | Syros Run by a nomadic family of three, Aristide Hotel brings a fresh, eco-friendly and artsy breeze to the original concept of “neoclassical building aura”. The neoclassical mansion in the historical centre of Hermoupolis was actually one of the last neoclassical houses to be built in Greece! Filled with vibrant colours, fancy furniture and artworks, this nine-room hotel feels more like a home. The property has a garden, a rooftop bar with sea view, an indoors bar but also an art gallery and an artists’ studio! Marpessa Hotel | Central Greece Marpessa Hotel is an elegant boutique hotel that captures your heart with its atmosphere and authenticity but also with its eclectic decoration. It is housed in a mansion, once home to a rich tobacco merchant, which was built in about 1920 in Agrinio. The current owners, in their attempt to preserve it, decided to convert it into a hotel. All authentic decorative elements were rescued and the building was extended. Among the hotel’s highlights are the hand-picked mid-century furniture and design classics and the eye-candy lobby that looks and feels like the living room of a chic apartment.

Marpessa Hotel

The Bold Type | Patras Patras’ first dip in 5-star luxury hospitality came through an impressive building, built in 1800. The inspiration for the name of the hotel comes from the bold character of the building which captivates the visitor in a glance -the exact goal of the house’s first owner, a big raisin trader in the 1800s. The hotel is developed on 4 floors, has a total of 10 beautifully decorated rooms and suites and an impressive garden at the back. From the roof of the building, you can see important sights of Patras. 1900 Hotel | Symi A neoclassical mansion that traces its history as far as the 19th century and one of Symi’s trademark colourful buildings is the home of the islands’ new, luxurious hotel called 1900. A beautiful seafront house with profuse history, known as the Mastoridis Mansion, was impeccably restored and decorated to give guests the opportunity to relive a modern version of its history. With four elegant suites soaked in history and unobstructed views of the colourful life of the harbour, this dreamy hotel is the real deal.

The Bold Type

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Racconto – whose name means fairy tale – is perfect for loved up couples.

DESIGN

RACCONTO BOUTIQUE DESIGN HOTEL: THE DESTINATION OF YOUR DREAMS CREATED BY SOFIA VLASSI, THIS BIJOUX ESTABLISHMENT, IN PARGA, HAS WELLBEING AND SUSTAINABILITY AUTHENTICALLY AT ITS CORE.

with years of experience in the high-end hospitality industry, this bijoux establishment consists of three gorgeous suites with a private garden and eight sizeable, light-filled deluxe rooms – all with streamlined furniture, eye-catching details, ambient lighting and an atmosphere that does not overwhelm, yet somehow magically, verges on the sultry. Lined with sun loungers, the pool area is polished perfection. The adjoining restaurant serves an exceptional breakfast with homemade and regional delicacies that showcase the wealth of Greece’s local produce – while the bar’s signature concoctions attest to the staff’s pledge to up the ante. There is also a meditation space for zen lovers and mindfulness seekers; while the hotel’s indulgent offerings include therapeutic massages and beauty treatments amid virgin nature, and outdoor yoga retreats. With a view of tailoring guests’ stays to their needs and whims, Racconto’s seasoned team moreover designs personalised itineraries packed with authentic experiences: From a sunset sailing cruise to a guided private tour to the area’s attractions, nothing is too much, or too much trouble. _ www.racconto-hotel.com

acconto is a hidden gem for those in the know. Designed to look and feel both chilled out and well-groomed, it draws those seeking a romantic escape – with ultra- attractive surrounds, all the trappings of eco-conscious luxury and pampering services. A slick and stylish luxury boutique hotel with a distinctly grown-up feel, Racconto – whose name means fairy tale in Italian – is perfect for loved up couples. Perched atop a verdant hill, just 900 meters from the centre of the scenic port of Parga, it’s also spectacularly positioned for catching Epirus’ famous sunset, and a great base for exploring nearby beaches, which are some of the Ionian’s best. Created by Sofia Vlassi, a trendsetting entrepreneur

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DESIGN

aria Vafiadis is an established thought-leader within the hospitality design world, admired for her roll call of award-winning projects, sought out by discerning property owners and respected for the value she brings to all her work. She is as confident in imagining large, imposing spaces as she is in creating cosy niches; whether designing the boldly contemporary or within the classical genre, she draws on location and cultural heritage to create something unique. An architect by training and an interior designer by choice, she combines visionary use of space with design that reaches out beyond trend, that is commercially astute, innovative and delightfully surprising. Maria established MKV Design in London in 2000 after an early career which had taken her from Athens to Milan and onto the UK. Since then, she has cultivated a business which has worked across Europe, in the Middle East and Africa. “We have been privileged to lead the interior architecture and design of such projects as Costa Navarino, Grand Hyatt Athens, Athens Capital Centre Hotel, Mykonos Grand Hotel & Resort and Blue Palace in Crete. Elsewhere in Europe, we were the interior architects and

UNIQUE PROJECTS, VISIONARY PERCEPTION AN ARCHITECT BY TRAINING AND AN INTERIOR DESIGNER BY CHOICE, MARIA VAFIADIS COMBINES VISIONARY USE OF SPACE WITH BEYOND TREND DESIGN.

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designers on the recreation of Burgenstock Resort in Switzerland, the Sheraton Grand in London and, most recently, Matild Palace in Budapest. We have also completed a number of luxury private residences”, she asserts. “Each of our projects is unique. However, what they do have in common is my determination to deliver on the aesthetic, experiential and, in the case of hotels, the commercial levels. In designing for true luxury, you always have to consider what will differentiate one grand hotel or home from another; the environment should be able to support the user in every way possible. When it comes to hospitality projects, we go beyond brand, while remaining mindful of it. We always take location and the cultural context first in creating a design narrative that is tailored to the property. If someone in Crete wants exactly the same hotel as they have seen in Croatia, we wouldn’t be the right firm for them. If, however, they would like a design team who understands how to extract the best out of very large spaces as well as tiny niches, has a long track record of working harmoniously with heritage to create a modern experience, who is equally at home with the grandiose as with the simple and understands the commercial imperatives of hotel operations and guest expectations, then I believe they should choose MKV Design”, she stresses. The last couple of years have been challenging for the hospitality sector. On the upside, this has put more em-

phasis on good design. “We now all thirst to be surrounded by beautiful and well-considered environments. I think Covid has also accelerated certain pre-pandemic trends – wellbeing, responsibility towards our planet and travel with a social conscience. Interior designers can look forward to responding to these issues innovatively, creating a new legacy for the future”, Maria concludes. _ Maria Vafiadis Founder and Managing Director www.mkvdesign.com

We prefer not to compromise on our values because they deliver best value for the client, longevity and very special experience for guests.

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DESIGN

ounded in 2008, Maria Sfyraki & Associates is a multidisciplinary architectural practice committed to promoting a more sustainable, efficient, social and cost-effective future. With an extensive experience in a broad range of building types in the private and public sectors, the practice specialises in energy consulting in new constructions and major renovations. Its work unfolds in a variety of fields, from residential to commercial and hospitality complexes, with in-house management of all creative stages of development, from concept design to implementation, construction, and delivery. “Our motto is “listen”. We strive to listen to our customer’s dreams and visions. We are approaching every single site gently, trying to capture its whisper. One of the great beauties of architecture is that each time it is like life starting all over again. That’s our way of making architecture. It is spatial poetry”, Ms. Sfyraki stresses. “Ours is a team affair with many equal players. We aim to curate unique and immersive experiences through Architecture, Interior

INNOVATIVE ARCHITECTURE ARCHITECTURE IS AN ART, THE INTEREST OF WHICH IS NOT LIMITED TO THE PRODUCED MORPHOLOGY, BUT TO ITS POTENTIAL TO BE THE BACKGROUND OF A WAY OF LIFE

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“Our motto is “listen”. We strive to listen to our customer’s dreams and visions.”

image. Our approach however is to resurface those characteristics that had made the hotel top in its time, to codify and evaluate them – as an archaeologist. Then it is extremely creative, to “reform” the ones we’ve decided to keep, give them another role and “re-compose” them in line with the new requirements”, Ms. Sfyraki asserts.

and Hardscape Design taking into account the range of spatial qualities within every project”, she adds. Every project is sculpted by collaborative processes: The firm works with artists for the birth of unique installations, and with local artificers and specialized partners to meet all implementation needs. “Teamwork makes a project sustainable in its essence. We always start from the land that will welcome our project: the orientation, the microclimate, the local vegetation, and the cultural characteristics are the starting matrix of our architectural design. The design of each project stems from a thorough conceptual investigation. Clean lines, top-quality materials and small details work together to create a unified space that carries a powerful scenographic sensation. She emphasizes a sensation that defines each project and has come to be the firm’s signature “.

With environmental design at the cornerstone of its philosophy, the firm creates crafted architectural experiences that are informed by dialogue and tradition, enriched by materiality and inspired by sustainable contemporary life. “Architecture is not about the “architect” at all. It is a social act, and we are responsible for making it a sustainable one. Architecture is not a laboratory preparation nor a striking picture of visualization. Architecture exists in everyday life. So let her go back to where she started. Earth”, Ms. Sfyraki concludes.

The firm is particularly interested in projects involving holistic renovations of existing iconic hotel units that, on the one hand, require to be highly competitive and, on the other, must be certified according to the latest energy standards. “In such projects, the easy solution is to completely erase the dowry of the past and just focus on the desired new

Maria Sfyraki & Associates 20, Pavlou Mela st. Lykovrisi 14123, Athens +30 210 2818157 +30 697 2660709 www.sfyraki.com

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guide our thought process are balance in volumes, proportion in geometry, perspective in views, creativity in materials, wisdom in functionality, and greatness in aesthetics”, Christos asserts. “If we were to choose one word for our signature style, like classic or modern, we would proclaim “contemporary”. Our aim is to produce high-quality architectural forms that broaden the mind and expand the potential of the design practice through singular approaches. Every client is unique and poses a new and interesting challenge for us to create a correspondingly and befittingly unique result”, he adds. “Any project that lights up “the fear of the unknown” inside every architect’s mind and heart, poses a formidable challenge – until the moment of salvation when shapes and lines start to speak for themselves, thereby beginning to form a clearer picture”, he emphasizes. For him, architecture is an expression of values: “We are not hired to make pretty homes or win design awards, we are hired to solve life problems” he stresses. “Fancy architecture that produces expensive results is definitely not the future. Parametric design planning of vainglorious shapes and volumes is also not the future. “Sustainability” in architecture has to be a new value that addresses the negative environmental and social impacts of buildings by utilizing design methods, materials, energy and development spaces that aren’t detrimental to the surrounding ecosystem or communities. Future Architecture should let nature in. It should definitely continue to be a “pleasure”, but also not to forget how to be a shelter”, Christos concludes.

DESIGN

SUSTAINABLE ARCHITECTURE THAT BROADENS THE MIND

graduate of the prestigious National Technical University of Athens (NTUA), Christos Follides has been tackling challenging architectural projects since 1999. With a solid experience in both planning and construction, his office undertakes the design of residential and commercial premises, hospitality establishments and renovations, covering the entire range of architectural services, from the initial idea through to the final detailed construction plan and up to furniture design. “We love to create as artists and to implement as scientists. Keywords that always

Christos G. Follides Architectural Engineer NTUA 2-4, Mesogeion Ave, Athens Tower, email: info@follidesarch.com www.follidesarch.com

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P H O T O S : M Y R T O I AT R O P O U L O U

CHRISTOS FOLLIDES AND HIS TEAM LOVE TO CREATE AS ARTISTS AND IMPLEMENT AS SCIENTISTS, TO BE ABLE TO SOLVE LIFE PROBLEMS.

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LAST WORD

The purpose of the «mati», a schematic representation of an eye, is to remove the jealous look. According to tradition, anyone who offers diffuse praise risks giving the recipient the «evil eye», which can lead to illness or misfortune, even if the donor’s intentions are pure. Children are especially prone to the evil eye, both because they are young and innocent and because they are magnets of praise. How can you deal with it? Someone may spit (or pretend to spit) on your newborn for good luck or «xematiasei» if a more serious case of the evil eye occurs. Most gift shops have at least one version and are often found in souvenir shops. Their striking colors reflect the characteristic blue and white touches of the island architecture of the Aegean and offer visitors a tangible reminder of the blue seas and skies of Greece that can be transferred to a keychain or hung on the wall behind the house.

Mati The Evil Eye - An Ancient Greek Belief

Browsing through the tourist shops you will realize that there are many amulets and jewelry on offer that depict a blue eye. The concept of the evil eye – «kako mati» is found in classical times in Ancient Greece.

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