Insider 134 July 2017

THE CITY MAGAZINE OF

July 2017 Year 16. Issue 134 €4.50 ISSN 1790-3114

ATHENS

Summer Style

ISLAND INSIDER Spetses, Folegandros, Paros, Crete PEOPLE Michael Ondaatje, Miriam Frank, Canadian Ambassador Mr. Keith Morrill, Athens Mayor Mr. Giorgos Kaminis GREEK FASHION SPECIAL Zeus + Dione, Sophie Deloudi, What to Wear in Patmos! PLUS Great Holiday Reading!

ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT, FOOD & WINE, NIGHTLIFE, SHOPPING, NOVELTIES, MAPS AND MORE

No matter what else may befall us throughout the rest of the year or what challenges still lie ahead - we can always rely on the medicinal power of a Greek summer to restore us to our more carefree, happier selves.

There’s a reason why just about every international A-list star has, at some time or another over the years, sought out Greek shores for their summer escapes. Because unlike other holiday destinations, Greece never goes out of fashion. From Grace Kelly, Leonard Cohen, Ernest Hemmingway and Sophia Loren who all found their bliss in Hydra last century; to the likes of Sofia Vergara and Leonardo di Caprio who have included Mykonos on their summer rota, the magic of a Greek summer is timeless. (Others like Tom Hanks and Sean Connery have even forged permanent emotional bonds with Greece, buying holiday homes that they return to summer after summer.)

Every day of a Greek summer is a celebration of life – and a salve for all manner of spiritual ailments. Some visit

for the energy, the food, the culture, and the mind-blowing beauty. Others, to return to slower, more authentic, more hospitable rhythms.

For author Miriam Frank, who by the age of 12 had fled two wars and lived in three continents, Greece represented sanctuary after many years of homeless wandering. In her wonderfully evocative piece for us this month, Miriam describes the summer, many decades ago, when Greece first claimed her when an old woman clad in black invited her into her humble home for a Greek coffee, untroubled by the complete absence of a common language. To me, this is the very essence of a Greek summer: filled with the exuberance of life, human warmth and inclusivity.

This month, we also feature another acclaimed writer with an itinerant childhood. The Booker prize winning author of The English Patient, Michael Ondaatje, was in Athens briefly this month and found time to chat with Insider. Just like Greece, this monumentally-talented Canadian, born in Sri Lanka, has also built a formidable reputation for not playing by the rules. Meanwhile, as our own John Carr writes on page 50, the headlines may still deliver daily doses of woe about the troika, terrorism and taxes. But no matter what, we’ll always have summertime, when the living is easy.

Kalo Kalokairi!

Sudha Nair-Iliades

Publisher

Photos

Sudha Nair - Iliades

Christos Tolis, Kostas Mpekas, Lisa Furuland Kotsianis, Fokia Kitsou, Panos Rizopoulos

Editor in Chief Amanda Dardanis

Editors Fashion: Michail-Alexander Passos, French: Anita Robert

Client Relations Krysta Foteinopoulou

Graphic Design Fokia Kitsou

Accounts Dimosthenis Therianos Social Media Caroline Pateras

Contributors in this Issue Anna Roins, John Carr, Cristina Butler, Graham Wood, Miriam Frank, Lisa Furuland Kotsianis, Melissa Diamond, Peter Poulos, Mike Sweet

Founder Steve Pantazopoulos

Legal Counsel Christos Christopoulos

Prepress and Printing Grafima

Subscriptions

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Amanda Dardanis

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

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

John Carr

Born in North Staffordshire, John Carr has a BA in history and MA in sociology from Leicester University. He has worked in Greece as a correspondent for the Associated Press, Wall Street Journal Europe, The Times of London and Vatican Radio and as broadcaster, writer and actor since 1978. He has published several books including, The America Capsule (2005),Your Eyes Fourteen (2007), On Spartan Wings (2012), Sparta’s Kings (2012), The Defence and Fall of Greece 1940-41 (2013), RHNS Averof (2014) and the hugely popular Greekisms for Dummies (2016)

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

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

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

Michail-Alexander Passos

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

Cristina Butler

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

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

Anna Roins Anna Roins is a lawyer and a freelance journalist who writes articles on social and community issues. She is also a regular contributor to AUTHORLINK, assigned to conduct interviews with bestselling global authors.

Graham Wood Born and raised in the northeast of England, Greece has been home to Graham since 2004 when he covered the Olympics as a freelance journalist. He covers the Greek sports scene, but has also contributed features on travel and the environment to publications such as the Athens News and Kathimerini as well as wire services such as Reuters

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Spotlight on Spetses

32 ART & CULTURE

Athens & Epidaurus Festival

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Impressions of Greece

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The Rebel Scribe

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We bring you the must-see moments yet to unfold at this year’s Festival – from the mainstream to the avant garde.

Athens & Epidaurus Festival

Author Miriam Frank, who fled two wars by the age of 12, writes evocatively on Greece, the country she has found sanctuary in.

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Award-winning writer Michael Ondaatje – author of The English Patient - goes wherever the story takes him and doesn’t play by the rules, discovers Amanda Dardanis.

The Rebel Scribe

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DIPLOMACY

The New Diversity

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The Great Defender of Athens

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As Canada celebrates its 150th anniversary of Confederation, Sudha Nair-Iliades talks to the Ambassador to Canada, Mr Keith Morrill, about his country’s enviable model of social harmony.

Anita Robert catches up with Giorgos Kaminis, the Mayor of Athens, and encounters a progressive civic leader on a mission to make our capital attractive again.

TRAVEL – MY ISLAND AFFAIR

Spotlight on Spetses

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The Freedom of Folegandros

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Paros Moments

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Swedish entrepreneur and photographer Lisa Furuland Kotsianis shares her favourite summer snapshots of elegant Spetses, the “Monaco of Greece”.

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Melissa Diamond writes about the unchanging beauty and hospitality of Folegandros and the precious gift it has given her family.

Part-time Parian Peter Poulos opens up his Paros address book to help you get the best from this cosmopolitan Cycladic gem.

Siren of the Seas

44 Venetian Odyssey

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Mike Sweet immerses himself in some ancient Cretan legacies while staying in a thoroughly modern oasis.

Venetian Odyssey

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GREEK FASHION SPECIAL!

What to Wear in Patmos

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Insider’s fashion editor Michail-Alexander Passos gives a masterclass in pulling off the Patmos Look on this famously fashion-forward island.

Greek at the Seams

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Insider meets up with Mareva Grabowski and Dimitra Kolotoura - the dynamic duo behind one of the fashionista’s favourite Greek labels, Zeus + Δione.

Siren of the Seas

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Greek Chic

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Art and high-functionality collide in the sophisticated swimwear creations of Greek designer Sophia Deloudi, discovers Michail-Alexander Passos.

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Cristina Butler curates a list of her favourite Greek stylists to elevate your summer wardrobe.

CITY LIFE

Time for a Sea Change?

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Green Tea & Sympathy

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Sections Arts & Events

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Art & Culture

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Fast Lane

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Socials 14 Travel 32 Fashion 40 Kaleidoscope

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Sailing in Greece should be as lucrative a tourist offering as skiing in the Alps, argues Graham Wood.

Greeks have always got by, especially when the going gets tough … just don’t ask them to turn up on time, says John Carr.

Time for a Sea Change?

BOOKS

Courage under Fire

Anna Roins reviews the haunting new tale by acclaimed American novelist Anita Shreve.

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Cover image: Shutterstock

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arts&events Music

July 12 TECHNOPOLIS LP After the storming success of “Lost on You” and “Other People”, Greece has embraced American artist LP as one of their own. See her when she returns to Athens for another electric live concert experience where she’s sure to conquer the crowd with her unique timbre voice and singular aura.100 Pireos Avenue, Gazi, tel: 210.369.2337, www.technopolis-athens.com

August 1-9 VARIOUS GREEK ISLANDS 7th Saronic Chamber Music Festival An enthralling summer for music lovers as the Saronic Chamber Music Festival returns with intimate concerts in six stunning locations, mostly on the islands: Galatas, Spetses, Hydra, Poros, Kythira, and, for the first time, at the Methana volcano at the Open Amphitheater of Kameni Chora. The Leondari Ensemble will be joined by world-class musicians playing great works of Bach, Mozart, Brahms, Schumann, Beethoven and Debussy. A highlight will be performances of Bach’s ‘Goldberg Variations’ in an arrangement for string trio by the great Russian violinist, Dmitry Sitkovetsky.

Galatas - Spetses - Hydra - Poros – Kythira – Methana.

For more information visit www.saronicfestival.com.

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

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

Tae Kwon Do Olympic Stadium, Faliro, www.stadia.gr

September 8-9

Sport

October 6-8

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SPETSES HARBOUR Spetses Mini-Marathon Join in the excitement and buzz of one of Spetses’ most popular annual sporting events as 6,000+ participants join just as many visitors for a series of running events (5K, 10K and 25K); and swimming races (3K and 5K). There are a number of kids’ athletics events also. Each course and event is planned to highlight the Saronic Gulf island’s remarkable natural, cultural and architectural beauty.

For more information, visit www.spetsesmarathon.com

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arts&events Festivals

August 7-13

BENAKI MUSEUM Athens Photo Festival

ANCIENT THEATRE OF PYTHAGORION Samos Young Artists Festival Connect musical contradictions and contrasts in the beautiful ancient theatre of Pythagorion with the return of the Samos Young Artists Festival, hosted by the Schwarz Foundation. You’ll hear classical Music and Jazz, Opera, Folklore and music of the world. Experience famous established musicians alongside fresh young talents on a week-long memorable musical journey. For information on tickets and programme, email info@samosfestival.com or visit www.samosfestival.com Ancient Theatre of Pythagorion, Pythagorion, Samos, www.samosfestival.com

Until July 31

View the winning images selected for this year’s Athens Photo Festival from a world-wide scout of the finest photography moments submitted by emerging and established artists and photographers everywhere.

Earlier this year, APF2017 put out the call for a wide variety of works, ranging from fine art to documentary and photojournalism, photobased installations and multimedia works. Athens Photo Festival is the leading international festival of photography in Southeastern Europe.

Under the title ‘Still Searching,’ Athens Photo Festival celebrates its 30 years anniversary, and continues its tradition of exploring the social impact of the ever-changing visual culture.

Koumpari 1, tel: 210.921.1751, www.photofestival.gr

Exhibitions

July 22-October 1 P&M KYDONIEOS FOUNDATION OF ANDROS Freedom Zone Admire the sculptural marvels of the late George Lappas as part of the third chapter of an ongoing art tetralogy concerned with environmental nature and reflections on the allegorical nature of the “self”, to be staged at this historic gallery space in Andros Chora.

Like Lappas, each of the other chosen painters and sculptors also distinguish themselves through their talent, expressive multi-level language and the versatile way in which they handle their materials.

P&M. Kydonieos Foundation of Andros, Andros Chora.

Citronne Gallery Poros Afrodite Liti - Glafkes

Until October 31

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

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

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arts&events Until July 16 ONASSIS CULTURAL CENTRE Tomorrows Artists, architects and designers weave stories about the cities of tomorrow, presenting both utopian and dystopian scenarios about what may lie ahead of us, in a thought-provoking 3-month exhibition staged by the Onassis Cultural Centre and aimed at encouraging a critical engagement with seminal changes already happening today.

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

Until July 16

Until September 3

BOUZIANI MUSEUM Brigitte Polemis: #iFollow

MUSEUM OF CYCLADIC ART Divine Dialogues: Cy Twombly

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

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

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

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

BENAKI MUSEUM Charmed Lives in Greece

Until September 10

A fascinating retrospective of the life and work of three vital artists of the 20th century, who were united by their love of Greece. The exhibition ‘Ghika, Craxton, Leigh Fermor: Charmed lives in Greece’, presents the friendship of artists Nikos Hatzikyriakos-Ghika (1906-1994) and John Craxton (1922-2009) and the writer Patrick Leigh Fermor (1915-2011), from the early years of their acquaintance in the mid-1940s to the end of their lives. Through the display of works of art, extracts from texts, photographs, letters, manuscripts and publications, follow their relationship and their artistic and literary careers, with their love of Greece always a common denominator.

Main Building, Koumpari 1, Kolonaki. Tel: 210.367.1000, www.benaki.gr

Until September 17

Until September 30

BENAKI MUSEUM Liquid Antiquity

PROJECT SPACE HYDRA Kara Walker

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

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

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

The provocative Afro-American artist Kara Walker presents FIGA at the DESTE Foundation’s “Project Space”, a former slaughterhouse on the island of Hydra.

Often humorous, Kara Walker’s work explores the tensions and power plays of race and gender relations.

Walker engages in historical narratives, particularly the experience of African Americans in the South American anti-American, and the ways in which these stories have been suppressed, distorted and falsified. Free admission. Gallery is open every day except Tuesday.

Epar.Od. Mandrakiou-Molou, tel: 210.275.8490, www.deste.gr/hydra/

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Special Promotion

Memories of Greece…

O

ur favourite go-to shop for stylish and quirky Greek keepsakes, Anamnesia, has now opened in two new locations, Plaka and Zakynthos.

With their playful spin on classic Greek staples such as Greek salads and souvlaki, donkeys and squid, Anamnesia’s delightful range of tableware, kitchen essentials and gifts are the perfect way to preserve the pleasures of your Hellenic holiday.

Joining the existing stores at Athens International Airport and in Mykonos, the two new branches also carry charming and exclusive destination-specific designs. In Anamnesia Zakynthos, for instance, you can capture the essence of two of the island’s most memorable sights, the Caretta-Caretta loggerhead sea turtle and world-famous Navagio Beach. We advise you to buy at least two of everything though because you’ll be wanting to keep these practical yet clever gifts all to yourself.

Mykonos Matoyiannia, Mykonos, Tel: 228.907.9171 Zakynthos 21 21st Maiou St, Zante, Τel: 269.504.5999 Plaka 99 Andrianou St, Plaka, Athens, Tel: 214.687.0704 Airport Athens International Airport, Departures Level, Tel: 210.353.3104 insider athens | 11

We bring you a round-up of the most compelling and must-see moments yet to unfold at this year’s Athens & Epidaurus Festival – from the mainstream to the avant-garde.

What to See at the Athens Festival

Theatre

Letter to a Man / Based on Nijinsky’s diaries Robert Wilson – Mikhail Baryshnikov Celebrated artists Robert Wilson and Mikhail Baryshnikov join forces to step inside the shattered mind of one of the greatest dancers in history, Vaslav Nijinsky. Based on the iconic dancer’s diaries, a bona fide work of art which chronicles his descent into madness, this solo piece tackles the artist’s tormented sexuality and spirituality, as well as his tempestuous relationship with Sergei Diaghilev, the founder of Ballets Russes, to whom the letter of the title is addressed.

WHERE: Onassis Cultural Centre, Main Stage WHEN: July 10 and 13 at 9pm TICKET INFO: Regular 35-65€, Students 25€ Disabled 15€, Unemployed 20€

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Prometheus Bound, The Suppliants / Aeschylus Olivier Py Provocative actor, poet and director, and poet Olivier Py attempts to give meaning to the present by re-interpreting two major plays of the Western canon: Aeschylus’ Prometheus Bound and The Suppliants.

Directed and translated into French by Olivier Py, this two-part, minimalist production with a cast of three premiered last summer at the Festival d’Avignon. Aeschylus’ views resonate throughout the performance: the law cannot be the answer to everything.

In French, with Greek and English subtitles WHERE: Little Theatre of Ancient Epidaurus WHEN: August 4 and 5 at 9.30pm TICKET INFO: Regular 20-25€, Students 10€ Disabled 5€, Unemployed 5€

Dance

Sweet Fever Pere Faura Catalan choreographer Pere Faura incorporates aspects of pop culture in his work and reimagines them in a distinctly theatrical form.

Sweet Fever, which forms part of the Sweet Suites trilogy, is a choreographic loop based on the iconic “Night Fever” dance from the legendary film Saturday Night Fever. The artist re-interprets and re-invests with meaning an iconic choreography in what is a ritualistic, ecstatic trip which ironizes our constant search for pleasure.

WHERE: BIOS WHEN: July 16 and 17 at 9.00pm TICKET INFO: Regular 15€, Students 10€ Disabled 5€, Unemployed 5€

Art & Culture

Unwanted Dorothée Munyaneza – Compagnie Kadidi The Rwanda-born, France-based dancer, choreographer, singer, and performer Dorothée Munyaneza was only twelve at the time of the 1994 Rwandan genocide. Drawing on the horrific experiences of war, Munyaneza created a performance that pays tribute to all those Rwandan women who suffered atrocities, their bodies violated, humiliated, and objectified. The performance combines dancing, sound material consisting of testimonies under the guidance of electronic composer Alain Mahé, a two-person choir comprised of Holland Andrews and Munyaneza herself. Recommended for ages 16 and up WHERE: Little Theatre of Ancient Epidaurus WHEN: August 4 and 5 2017 at 9.30pm TICKET INFO: Regular 20-25€, Students 10€ Disabled 5€, Unemployed 5€

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Affairs of the Art Insider’s opening night party at Art-Athina 2017 once more saw the bold and beautiful come out to play – from diplomats and captains of industry to fashion designers, hoteliers and art-addicts. We found much to toast: in particular, the new generation of Greek “renaissance artists” who are creating such thrilling and thought-provoking works in challenging times. Special thanks to our sponsors: Boutari Wines, Pernod-Ricard and La Choclatiere for spoiling us on the night!

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1. Leopoldine and Philippa Theofanopoulos, 2. Georges Papalexis of Zolotas with Insider’s publisher Sudha Nair-Iliades, 3. Artist Pavlos Samios with his wife, curator Maria Xanthakou, Anna Maria Athanasopoulos-Frances and Sophia Hiniadou Cambanis, Special Advisor on Cultural Affairs to the President of the Hellenic Republic 4. Art Athina’s newly-appointed Artistic Director Stamatia Dimitrakopoulou, Artistic Advisor Xenia Kalpaktsoglou, Minister of Culture Lydia Koniordou and President of the Panhellenic Association of Art Galleries, Gianna Grammatopoulou, 5. US Consul Abby Aronson with her husband, photographer Paul Cohn, 6. Meg Cope of Zaccys London with Cristina Butler, 7. Amalia Sotiropoulou and Alexandros Kassandrinos, 8. Artist Kostis Georgiou with his wife Flora and daughter Korina Georgiou, 9. Nikolas Foteinopoulos, Krysta Foteinopoulou and Niki Kapopoulou 10. Mary Theodorou with the Algerian Ambassador Noureddine Bardad-Daidj, 11. Insider editor Amanda Dardanis with Kerry Petropoulos, Caroline Pateras and Lisa Furuland Kotsianis, CEO of a global baby brand.

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Walk in the footsteps of an Archeologist…

Who better to illuminate the riveting exhibits at the Acropolis Museum than an archeologist? Until the end of October, you can now take advantage of one-hour guided evening walks through the museum’s exhibition galleries, led by an archeologist, in English. It’s a wonderful way to enhance your understanding and appreciation of this worldclass venue, especially if you are hosting first-time visitors to our capital over the summer. The tours take place every Friday at 6pm and are included in the normal 5 euro entrance price. You can register for them at the information desk located at the entrance of the museum.

The meeting point for your archeological host will be the glass floor on the ground level.

For more information, phone the museum on 210.900.0900 or visit the website, www.theacropolismuseum.gr

Artful Andros Visitors to stylish Andros this summer have the added enticement of seeing one of the year’s artistic highlights, Freedom Zone, which pays tribute to the sculptural marvels of the late George Lappas. The exhibition is the third chapter of an ongoing tetralogy concerned with environmental nature and reflections on the allegorical nature of the “self”. You can see it at the historic art space P. & M. Kydonieos Foundation in Andros Chora between July 22 and October 1, daily except Tuesday.

Like the prematurely lost George Lappas, each of the other chosen painters and sculptors also distinguish themselves through their talent, expressive multi-level language and the versatile way in which they handle their materials. The participating artists are: Nikos Angelidis, Chrysa Voudouroglou, Petros Vrellis, Giorgos Giparakis, Irene Kana, Elli Koutsoukelli, Constantine Massos, Eleni Parmakeli, Varvara Spyroulis, Antonis Staveris, Ilias Tsakmakis.

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Starry Starry Night!

Nothing defines a Greek summer quite as poetically as open-air cinemas do. Until the end of September, the capital is transformed into one big open-air movie spectacular as the Athens Outdoor Film Festival returns once more. Now a summer institution, you can see iconic screenings for free, alongside less mainstream film screenings, live concerts and other interactive events, in some of the capital’s prettiest parks, squares and pedestrianized pockets.

Here are three highlights that we definitely recommend you whip out the popcorn for (both for the movie and the venue): Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior (1981), Mel Gibson’s cult post-Apocalyptic western screens Thursday, July 20 at 21.30 at the Lycabettus Theatre, Lycabettus Hill, followed by a dj set party; See Judy Davis and Peggy Ashcroft in 1984’s brilliant A Passage to India. The classic adaption of E.M. Forster’s novel on the yawning gap between Colonial East and West screens Wednesday, August 23 at 21.00 at the National Archeological Museum; and finally, 1985’s avant-garde Kiss of the Spider Woman, which earned William Hurt a golden statue for his portrayal of an imprisoned gay man in Latin America, screens Friday, August 25 at 21.00 in the Dionysiou Areopagitou Pedestrian Precinct (opposite the Acropolis Museum).

For more programme information, visit www.cinemag.gr/aoaff/

Agora Bistro, SNFCC

Now you can dine at SNFCC! Saturdays are Child’s Play at SNFCC in July Are your little treasures bored of the beach already and parked permanently in front of Netflix? The Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre is hosting special free physical activities for kids every Saturday afternoon in July to help get them off the sofa. From 6.30-8pm, children between the ages of 4-9 can join in the merry revival of some of the classic games we used to enjoy and that never fail to excite!

They’ll play contemporary versions of hopscotch, tug of war, hoops and sack races, and other perennial favourites. Parents, too, will be able to recall childhood memories and perhaps be tempted join in the fun. Then, between 7-9pm, you can introduce your child to the joy and benefits of yoga at free outdoor workshops. You may well be giving them a gift for life. Yoga for children is a fun way for kids to develop important skills, in an environment where competition is absent. From a very young age, children deal with pressure at school, and with the stress of success in sports and extracurricular activities. Yoga can be an extremely effective tool to help them ease the pressure.

The yoga lessons takes place without judgment and the perfect execution of each yoga pose by the children is not the goal. In an environment of encouragement, they will develop their motor, cognitive, emotional and social skills. Through an approach that is childcentered and utilizes play, children learn to control their bodies, their breath, their thoughts and how to relax, while also improving their flexibility and confidence.

The classes are suitable for children aged between 4-12. To find our more about both events, visit www.snfcc.org.

Since it opened to much fanfare last year, the only thing holding back the marvelous Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre, in our opinion, has been the lack of proper eat-in establishments.

It’s been a lovely experience picnicking out on the Great Lawn – along with the great buffet of family entertainment that’s always on offer. But we’d be lying if we said we weren’t thrilled to hear that two new food and beverage concepts (where you can dine-in or take-out) have now arrived at SNFCC. There’s the bright and breezy indoor Agora Bistro, specializing in creative summer salads and super tempting desserts, and the chilled and cheerful Canal Café, where you can sit by the water and choose from a fabulous range of imaginative and healthy choices. The ones that caught our eye were: the roasted vegetable briam with brown rice, rocket and pine nut; lemony orzo pasta with marinated shrimps, roasted peppers and feta; chickpeas with roasted peppers, parsley, basil, and orange dressing; cold cucumber soup with mint; and farmer’s bread with avocado, fresh chicken and hummus. The Canal Café is powered by the same folk who brought us Kolonaki’s popular IT restaurant on Skoufa, a stylish eat-in restaurant with a strong accent on wholesome, high-quality nutritious meals, served in an eco-friendly modern setting.

P.S. IT also now has a take-away and delivery branch in Pangrati – IT on the Go – where the food concept is designed by Andreas Lagos, the same chef who also created IT’s initial restaurant philosophy.

Canal Café, SNFCC

IT, Pangrati

Future Perfect?

We’re captivated by this Spage Age design that recently sprung forth on the ancient soil of a remote Peloponnesian village in Messinia.

The 1,600 square foot Villa Ypsilon, designed by London firm LASSA, and architects Teo Sarantoglu Lali and Dora Sveijd, has gained worldwide attention thanks to its ground-breaking form and design, which allows its owners to scale its hull-shaped roof to enjoy views over the nearby mountains and coastline of the stunning Peloponnese peninsula. The domed summer house, which only took seven months to construct, is comprised of a three-pronged concrete shell which frames three courtyards at ground level - all of them catching the sun at different times of day. Impressive? Certainly. Homely?

The jury’s still out on that one. But one thing’s for sure: Hoarders definitely need not apply.

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The author in Kastro, Serifos

Impressions of Greece Born during the Spanish Civil War, author Miriam Frank was five years old when she boarded the famous Serpia Pinto in 1941, unaware that she and her mother Kate were escaping the round-ups, separations and extermination camps of Nazi Germany. By the age of 12, Miriam had fled two wars and lived in three continents and now divides her time between London and Greece. Here, she writes eloquently for Insider about the mark that Greece has left on her, after her early encounters, leading her to find sanctuary on the serene island of Serifos.

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Miriam, aged 4, in FoÍçy, France, where she and her mother hid from invading Germans in 1940.

Miriam, left, on her second birthday, March 1938, Barcelona

Memoir

After my many years of homeless wandering, I felt fully “at home” here.

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fter a lifetime of moves across countries, oceans and continents that began in my early childhood in war-torn Europe, I vividly remember my first view of Greece. I was twenty-six, and had returned to Europe in search of my roots after my growing-up years in Mexico and medical studies in New Zealand.

The ancient Greeks and their history, which formed the cradle of European civilisation with their introduction of democracy and the value of the individual, had always attracted me, even from the opposite end of the earth, and my expectations were richly rewarded. When I first arrived in Athens, I was overawed by the mighty, marble columns of the Parthenon that alternated with light and air, and the captivating human grace and beauty of the caryatids that looked down from their perch on the Acropolis. I felt transported through time as I wandered through the hillside remains of Agamemnon’s fortress in Mycenae, and surveyed the great amphitheatre in Epidaurus. In Delphi, the cool fresh mountain forests, oracular shrines and temples were all bathed in a magical effusion of honeyed light. And in a small coastal village in the Peloponnese, an old woman all covered in black invited me, clad in my bikini, into her humble home for a Greek coffee and a most basic exchange about each other’s lives through gestures and much laughing.

As different as our backgrounds, languages, customs and lives were, we readily connected with common insights and a mutual understanding. The past and present seemed to come together with the warmth and generosity and the sense of trust I experienced from the Greek people I came across, everywhere I went, true to their old tradition of “welcoming the foreigner”. After my many years of homeless wander-

ing, I felt fully “at home” here.

I visited the island of Hydra: a profusion of pretty white houses up the steep narrow streets interspersed with bougainvillea, vines, jasmine and other flowering creepers. Mykonos was a symphony of whites: arches, steps, paths, ledges and domes, all whitewashed to a snow-like chalkiness, the many layers of lime rounding off their edges giving them an organic look. In the changing lights and shadows I began to discover tinges of violet, pink, cerulean, lime-green and other shades in the whites all around me. Then, a dazzling white against a brilliant cobalt sea. The beach out of town, past a barren landscape of olive trees and lacy white dovecotes, each a different pattern from the next, was a long stretch of golden sand with a simple taverna, which served delicious fish soup. I joined evenings of Greek dancing in the port town, graceful, repetitive footwork, hands held high, around a circle, to the captivating, windy music, which lets one know that the Orient starts here.

On St George’s Day, the local people sat at an interminably long trestle table covered with food and drink that stretched from inside the church to far beyond it out in the open air, and they squeezed tighter together on the bench to make room for me, inviting me to join them in their celebrations in the interior of the island. They talked and laughed and enjoyed the feast and shared everything without fuss or ceremony, undeterred by a stranger in their midst and the absence of a common language. The exuberance of life, human warmth and inclusivity here, drew me close to them and to the country. There was a sense of déjà-vu about my encounter with Greece, a deep feeling of harmony and ease with my surroundings and the people, which fitted with their fundamental contribution to civilisation.

I settled in London where I worked in a teaching hospital and married an artist and started a family. But Greece remained in my heart and, when the time came, I returned in search of my white house on a Cycladic island. I found it in the stark, wild beauty of Serifos.

Many years had passed, and Greece had gone through difficult times.

With the intractable conflicts in the neighbouring Middle East and the resulting spillover of desperate refugees, on top of Greece’s increasingly difficult economic situation, it faces colossal challenges. Yet, even through this, there is a sense of its historic tradition of our common humanity.

In Serifos I have made life-long friendships, and – when I am not swimming in its sparkling blue waters or exploring every corner of the island – I spend my time reading and learning more about the history of this part of the world which blends East with West, and writing about my own life across the years and this wondrous and complicated world, with so much beauty and so much that is terrible, both at the same time. And Greece, in the midst of it, with its strong sense for the humane.

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Miriam Frank’s autobiography, “My Innocent Absence: Tales from a Nomadic Life” is available in English by Arcadia Books and in Greek by Kapon Editions.

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The Rebel Scribe 20 | insider athens

Interview The award-winning author of “The English Patient”, Michael Ondaatje, talks to Amanda Dardanis about the influences which shaped his unconventional “Cubist” works, taking a stand over Charlie Hebdo, and why he believes in breaking all the rules …

“I

tend not to believe that stuff,” Canada’s most celebrated male author Michael Ondaatje waves his hand dismissively over an industrial-sized frappe, as we seek refuge in the air-conditioned lobby of the Royal Olympic Hotel this steamy June morning.

We’re talking about the giddy superlatives that season most critical reviews of this blue-eyed, Sri Lankan-born writer and poet’s unconventional oeuvre (the most famous being his 1992 novel “The English Patient”, for which he won the Booker prize, and which of course, went on to become an Oscar-winning film).

A literary treasure who can’t stop making one-of-a-kind books. A risk-taking writer whose artistry and aesthetic have influenced an entire generation of writers. Ondaatje conjures images that pull strangers into the vivid rooms of his imagination...

And on it goes. It’s just a sampling of the high praise that’s followed Ondaatje during his prize-littered career. Aside from the Booker, he’s also received the Companion of the Order of Canada (one of the country’s highest honours), and countless other distinctions around the world.

Ondaatje has authored four collections of poetry including The Collected Works of Billy the Kid (his breakthrough work of 1970) and The Cinnamon Peeler ; while his fictional titles include In the Skin of a Lion, Anil’s Ghost, Divisadero, and The Cat’s Table. His non-fiction works include The Conversations: Walter Murch and the Art of Editing Film, which merges the 73-year-old’s love of literature with his passion for filmmaking.

Ondaatje’s books are a contagious blend of history, myth and memoir, while his name is often mentioned in the same breath as that other Canadian literary supremo, Margaret Atwood.

As a writer, Ondaatje goes wherever the story takes him; untroubled by form - or the fact that it may often take him half a decade to get there. He describes his work as “Cubist”, set apart from the linear. There’s an intriguing duality too in both his writing and public utterances – a tangling of his Eastern origins with his Western education (Ondaatje left Sri Lanka, then Ceylon, for England as a young boy, then later attended university in Canada). A devotee of quintessentially English poets like Robert Browning, Ondaatje carried one of Browning’s quotes around in his wallet for years until he lost it. It read: “What we do when we write represents the last of our childhood.” And yet, his own best works are firmly rooted in the narrative traditions of the East.

Previously, Ondaatje, who now lives in Toronto with his writer wife Linda Spalding, has tackled themes as diverse

as the New Orleans jazz scene at the turn of the century, the Sri Lankan civil war, and the first immigrant settlers in 1940s Toronto.

He’s here in Athens for a few days to promote the Greek release of his 2011 novel, “The Cat’s Table”, a book that relates the coming-of-age journey of an 11-year-old boy who spends three weeks on a boat traveling unaccompanied from the island state of Ceylon to England in 1954 to meet his mother. It’s a formative experience that Ondaatje has adapted to fiction from his own early life. Somewhat tellingly, he describes the story as “a little more innocent”, than some of his other books.

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You’re an accomplished poet, award-winning author and film-maker. You would have made a great Renaissance Man! Are there any other artistic talents that we should be aware of?

Well, I was also a sculptor in my youth. No, no. I’m only joking. I never wanted to be a sculptor, but I did always want to be a piano player. In particular, to play Fats Waller. And I’ve always threatened that I’ll stop writing one day and learn how to play the piano – but I’ve never done it. I’d also like to be an illustrator on historic novels like Robert Louis Stevenson’s “Kidnapped”.

I find the world much less chronological then most novelists pretend it is

You famously reject the “typical western narrative” in your novels. How do you consider that the conventional story structure straitjackets the novelist’s creations?

Well, I’m a big reader of all kinds of western narratives but after a while, you recognise the pattern of the dancesteps a little too much. If you know what’s going to happen, then why keep reading, you know…I find the world much less chronological then most novelists pretend it is. How the plot derives and emerges and ends doesn’t necessarily go from A-Z. How did your life change after The English Patient?

Not as much as it could have done. I just carried on writing.

I wasn’t out partying in L.A. for months at a time. As a writer, you can still retain your anonymity to an extent. What was nice was that these famous actors (Ralph Fiennes, William Dafoe et al) were out there doing the publicity for me. I’d liked to have hired them for the rest of my life!

Was there any one person in your youth who first awakened you to words, in a “Dead Poet’s Society” kind of way?

Absolutely. When I came to Canada, I had a great English teacher at University and he was fantastic and a real ham.

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The English Patient (1996)

He’d read a poem by Robert Browning and the bell would go off and he’d leave the room with these grand flourishes. He wanted to be a dramatic poet like Browning. I wasn’t very good at school and there were people like him who had faith in me whose memory remains very special to me.

In 2015, you were among the group of high-profile authors who boycotted the PEN American Center Literary awards, over their decision to award a Charlie Hebdo tribute. Why did you believe it was so important to make that statement?

Well there were other writers such as my good friend, the Australian author Peter Carey, who were much angrier about it than me. There were 5 or 6 of us who decided simply not to go to the event… and that was taken as this big about face. It’s a very complicated thing and one doesn’t want to simplify it. What happened to the staff at Charlie Hebdo was horrific. But PEN is a very political organisation and also a very conservative one – or has been in the past. I felt they were celebrating a magazine that a lot of people believed was very racist. To honour someone like Chelsea Manning would have been much more valid in my opinion – and that’s not to say anything disrespectful about the death of these guys.

And have you read Homer and the Classics?

Absolutely. They’re very important to me.

Was it a challenge writing in the voice of a youth in “The Cat’s Table” while actually being in your, how shall we say, “autumn years”?

Not necessarily. I enjoyed writing from the point of view of a youth.

Because what’s interesting to me is that on one level they are very perceptive about how people behave towards each other. But at the same time, they don’t know a damn about what’s really going on. Sexually or politically. He doesn’t understand what’s really going on but on another level he understands completely and is very focused on human nature.

Has seeing reports of unchaperoned refugee minors undertaking treacherous crossings here in Greece sparked any personal associations?

My book was written before all of this started to happen. But this whole idea of home and how people move from one country to another is very essential to me. Not just the boy of this story – and the other social “misfits” who sit with him around the Cat’s Table on the boat each night - but all immigrants everywhere.

You’re clearly someone who responds to the call of history - all of your major works, including “The English Patient”, have been set in the past. Any desire to tackle a contemporary novel one day?

I’m sure I will someday. But I’m not sure yet what it would be!

Your childhood and adolescence was cleaved between Sri Lanka, England and Canada and you have described yourself as “a mongrel of place, race, cultures and genres”. Has this theme of a fractured childhood bled into your work?

Oh, utterly. The main legacy is that I have a sense of the world as a whole as opposed to just the one point of view.

Many Canadian writers previously suffered cultural cringe and avoided setting stories in Toronto, believing the city didn’t offer enough grit. Yet your brilliant 1987 novel “In the Skin of a Lion” has been hailed as “the greatest prose poem ever written to Toronto”.

Well, it’s okay now, but it took awhile. For a long time in Canada going back 20-30 years, no one wrote books set there. You could write a book about Delhi; but you couldn’t write a book about Toronto. At first, if you proposed such a thing, people would say “What are you doing?!”

E-reader or paperback?

Paperback. And what’s really interesting about how we are returning to more authentic experiences now is that many publishers won’t do abridged audio books anymore. Some of them are even reinstating the whole original text. I think the public wants it. They’re fed up with getting the twenty minute version of “The Waves” (Virginia Woolf’s experimental 1931 novel).

Are there any literary works set in Greece that have captured your attention?

Three of my favourite contemporary novels about Greece include a book of poems written by the late American poet Jack Gilbert; Rachel Cusk’s “Outline” (a novella about a woman teaching a writing course in Greece who acts like a cipher for the lives of the people she encounters there); and Alison Oswald’s Memorial (a poetic reworking of Homer’s Iliad centred around the live of 200 soldiers).

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In the Cat’s Table you write: “In Sri Lanka, a well-told lie is worth a thousand facts.” And you once described being raised in Ceylon’s oral tradition of “tall stories, gossip, arguments and lies at dinner.”

Do you think there might be a cultural parallel there with Greece and our own fondness for rhetoric, drama and exaggeration?

Perhaps that’s true! There’s a great Irish poet I once read who described some mighty battle going on between two farmers in a field.

In his poem he compared them to Ancient Greece and wrote about how “all of the Trojan War was just a row”.

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THE NEW DIVERSITY

As Canada celebrates its 150th anniversary of Confederation and its 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations with Greece, it sets the standard as a multicultural, diverse and inclusive nation. At a time when other countries grapple with nationalist forces and anti-immigrant sentiment, Canada has been a model of social harmony. The secret of this nation’s enviable success? Throwing out the old understanding of diversity, the Ambassador to Canada, Mr Keith Morrill, tells Sudha Nair-Iliades.

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Diplomacy

At its 150th Confederation milestone, Canada has established itself as the most inclusive, progressive, multicultural country in the world, a champion of human rights, campaigner of third gender issues, advocate of indigenous cultures and as a nation where diversity is woven into the fabric of Canadian society. It must give you immense pride to represent a country that presents a positive counterpoint to the polarizing, divisive politics that plague the world today.

I think any Canadian will be proud of Canada and as Ambassador I’m very proud to serve Canada. Maybe it’s a very Canadian comment - but we do not have a magic formula or the one answer on why diversity works in Canada. Canada is a country which is built on accepting differences.

150 years of confederation brought together very disparate people, two official languages, a huge country with very different interests from different parts of the world, a history of immigration, a much longer history of aboriginal peoples and a federal structure. All these things lead you to a place where you accept that differences are alright and you learn to work with them and not to try to create an ideal that everyone has to fit into. I think that’s an explanation as to why Canada works. Inclusion is a choice and it is a lot of hard work. Federalism is hard work. It is often much easier to just dictate how things should be.

Many people find Canadian news boring – there are often long articles on the Canadian health system - but these are the issues that we believe should be talked about. We have to talk about the reality, we have to talk about the challenges facing people. We believe that we have a responsibility - to ourselves and to the world - to show that inclusive diversity is a strength, and a force that can vanquish intolerance.

MIGRATION Which brings us to our next question. Since your arrival here, Greece has served as the main point of entry for thousands of refugees and migrants. What is the way forward for Europe to resolve this complex, humanitarian crisis?

Canada is a country of immigration. One of the great things about being ambassador here is that one in every three people I meet have family connections in Canada. So we have a starting point which is advantageous to us - that we are accepting of the idea that a person could be born in a different country and could be integrated into society and become a minister or a member of cabinet or indeed, the Governor-General. Europe is still working towards that.

Europe is by definition a multi-national structure and not a nation-state. The logic of that is what Europe is working through right now. Member states control some aspects of European life and the European Union works together to address some other aspects. Given that Europe has to address some of these issues as Europe and not as nationstates alone, Europe will have to find a collective solution; but part of that is being accepting of differences, of being aware that the right approach, and the most effective and

efficient approach, is to use the talents and skill sets of the immigrants.

One of the questions for Europe is: Is it addressing this as a refugee issue (meaning people who are coming to seek shelter)?

Or is it addressing it as an immigration issue (meaning people coming here to work and live)? Europe must address this sooner or later, because the responses and the approaches will differ accordingly. There is a lot of debate and hard work still to be done.

These are times of great challenges and it is in these times that great things are done. Perhaps what the average European sees are only the problems and the friction - not the amazing work being done in finding a lasting solution.

Canada is a country which is built on accepting differences

ECONOMY AND TRADE What have been some key highlights marking 75 years of Canada-Greece diplomatic relations? There’s been new bilateral momentum in recent years with the ratification of a Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement and the Youth Mobility Agreement. With 300,000 Canadians of Greek descent living in Canada and 25,000 Greek Canadians living here (80% of whom are dual nationals), there has always been a lot of goodwill with very fertile exchanges between the two countries.

We have historically encouraged Greek students to come and study in Canada. One aspect is maintaining the relationship of those who have chosen to study in Canada because of family connections. Then there are those who don’t have a connection to Canada and there we want to be as open as possible. We are aware that Greece has its challenges in terms of youth employment. The International Experience Canada Programme based on a youth mobility agreement between Canada and Greece allows youth from Greece to go to Canada, work for a year, establish contacts and either return to Greece or cultivate new opportunities to establish themselves in Canada. It’s an excellent programme that we would like to maintain.

Anything that leads to stronger ties between our youth is a good long-term investment.

With significant milestones achieved in double taxation between Greece and Canada and the negotiation of a Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) with the EU, do you foresee a significant boost in trade between Greece and Canada, despite the current economic climate?

With Greece’s economic challenges and capital controls, trade is reasonably limited but, on the other hand, trade is overwhelmingly in Greece’s favour. We import a great deal from Greece both in goods and services. Greeks have

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shown that they can compete in Canada and CETA will present a great deal of opportunities for Greeks in non-traditional areas of growth such as financial services, information services, high-tech Government services contracting etc. The Ontario and Quebec liquor control boards are the first and second largest importers of liquor in the world and exports of Greek wines have been soaring.

Canadians love Greek products. The interim application of CETA will come through in the next few weeks and it will open markets and cut tariffs to zero. Canada is a trade dependent country, committed to trade, and we believe in treaties and agreements to promote open trade. We are very conscious that the EU are very important partners.

What are major Canadian investments in Greece?

Canada is among the biggest investors in Greece. I will be attending a meeting of the Greek Federation of Industry and the keynote speaker is Prem Watsa, who has invested extensively in Greece, and is extremely optimistic about Greece. Whether it is El Dorado in mining or the Public Service Pension fund investing in the Athens International Airport or Fairfax investing in other areas, Canadians seem to have a strong faith that the Greek economy presents opportunities and that money can be made - and that is what investors are interested in.

Greece needs foreign investments and it has enormous potential but investors need to know that they are welcome and they want a sense of predictability and security. I think as long as investors like Prem Watsa get that sense, then Greece is a great place to invest.

CULTURAL ALLIANCES Culturally, Greece has always enjoyed hosting some of Canada’s biggest names - from the late Leonard Cohen and world-famous author Michael Ondaatje … and more recently, the Cirque du Soleil and artists like Alain Lefevre who have promoted Brand Canada in their own fashion. Any more cultural highlights to look forward to?

We hosted the first-ever Canadian Film Week earlier this year in February to launch the celebrations for Canada 150 and for the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Canada and Greece, and we were pleased to have had several Canadian filmmakers attend.

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I’ve just come back from a conference in Thessaloniki celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Canada-Greece Joint Archaeological Excavation Mission in ancient Argilos, a project that runs under the auspices of the Canadian Institute in Greece. Michael Ondaatje will be in Athens on June 21 for the launch of the Greek translation of his book “The Cat’s Table”. The Canada Council for the Arts supports the translation of books by Canadian writers into a third language. This is a program that has provided valuable support to Greek publishers for the translation and promotion of Canadian literature to Greek readers. In August, we will exhibit works by three Canadian contemporary artists from Western Canada at the Cultural Foundation of Tinos. We launched an annual Canadian artist’s residency programme at the Vorres Museum, which is now in its third year. The Friends of Leonard Cohen in Hydra have just organized a three-day tribute with a documentary screening and a concert with his music on the quay. And on July 13, Ryerson University from Toronto - that has one of Canada’s best theatre faculties - will be doing a special production dedicated to Leonard Cohen under the auspices of the Municipality of Hydra and the Canadian Embassy. And, as every year, Canada will be participating at the annual film festivals in Athens and Thessaloniki as well as Animasyros with a focus on Canadian animation production.

PERSONAL TIES Your personal connection to Greece?

Greece is a beautiful country with warm people and you feel blessed to know that while it is -30 in Ottawa, you can be on your terrace sipping ouzo. Having said that, there are parts of Greece that remind me of the coast in Vancouver. We will be holidaying this summer in Chania.

What would you like your legacy here to be?

That sounds very grand. I’d suggest that Canada-Greece relations can run very well without my help, but I’d hope that there is communication and that the ‘sometimes boring’ but important work of diplomacy goes on.

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Mosaico House

Greece’s refugee story may have cooled in the media of late. But they still need our help. The German NGO Help-Hilfe reminded us of this last month with the opening of Mosaico House, a bright new shelter for refugee women and children in Kerameikos.

Diplomatic envoys and representatives from UNHCR and Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) were among the lively crowd who spilled onto the pavement on Wednesday, June 21, to welcome the new site to the community. The premises accommodates up to 32 refugee women and children, regardless of national origin, whether they remain in Greece or are relocated to a third country. The building has been completely rehabilitated and includes a separate floor for community activities such as language classes, recreational activities and information sessions.

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1. The German NGO, HELP-Hilfe zu Selbshilfe e.V., through its local office in Athens and with funding from the German Foreign Office announced the opening of a new guest house, Mosaico House, that will accommodate vulnerable refugee women and children on June 21, 2. Philippe Leclerc, UNHCR Representative for Greece and Steve Pantazopoulos, Country Director, Help, 3. Ioannis Tallios and Konstantinos Raftopoulos, architects, 4. Ivana Bozjak with Ira Kaliampetsos, 5, 6, 7. The new premises, located in the Kerameikos area of Athens has been fully rehabilitated for its current purpose and also includes a separate floor for communal activities such as language classes, recreational activities and information sessions, 8. Andreas Kehrbach and Till Gerards from the German Embassy in Athens, 9. Guests at the launch reception of Mosaico House, 10. Diona Lampiri from the Municipality of Athens with Victoria Christensen Lopez and Iera Propnotenyde from Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF), 11. Richard Dullnigg of the Austrian Embassy

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The Great Defender of Athens Giorgos Kaminis, the Mayor of Athens, receives us one afternoon in June at Kotzia Square in the heart of the city-centre. Just below his office windows, an Anglo-Pakistani artist exhibits a traditional wedding tent as part of the contemporary art meeting Documenta 14, in which tourists, Athenians in need, refugees and students meet each day to share a free meal. This initiative reflects the mayor’s holistic philosophy: that of social sharing, citizen engagement, art and innovation. Anita Robert catches up with this progressive civic leader.

In 2016, in recognition of your refugee policy, you won second prize in the “World’s Most Remarkable Mayor of the Year” award run by the prestigious City Mayors Foundation. What exactly was this policy about?

During the summer of 2015, thousands of refugees gathered around the Pedion tou Areos and Victoria Square. Every day, new people arrived. It was necessary to find a solution, to set an example to the other cities of Greece. We then decided to open a camp in Eleonas, which had to be enlarged twice. It was not easy, because this camp is in a poor part of town, and it was necessary to persuade people to accept this new situation. Then, with the help of the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), we set up an apartment housing programme for refugees awaiting relocation to another country. Now, 278 apartments house 2646 people, mostly families.

Lastly, in order to ensure a better coordination between all the actors of this humanitarian crisis, we are about to open (in September) a coordination center on Maizonos street in the Metaxourgeio district.

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Placed under the responsibility of the Municipality of Athens, this centre is created thanks to private donations, notably from the Stavros Niarchos Foundation. I do not conceal the fact that integration will be difficult. We did a survey recently with the refugees. Eighty percent of them do not want to stay in Greece. There is the language barrier, the economic crisis, and of course, the desire to re-unite with other members of their family who are elsewhere in Europe.

Which achievement are you most proud of?

Our social action. Since my arrival at the Athens City Hall in January 2011, I have been constantly fighting to protect those who are not the most popular. The gay parade, for example. We have supported this initiative from the beginning, and we are proud that it was held in Syntagma Square this year for the first time. We provide direct support, in the form of accommodation, clothing, food, to 26,000 people in Athens. We inaugurated in June a new social housing facility that will house 30 single-parent families.

Three for the Road…

Interview

Office of the Mayor of Athens

When we are in crisis we tend to become introverted and self-absorbed.

Athens has to do the opposite to stay in the race.

Your favourite place in Athens?

I love walking around Avyssinia square in the heart of the flea market. It is an enclosed square, surrounded by excellent restaurants and antique shops.

Athens in three words?

Hope. Work. International. When we are in crisis we tend to become introverted and self-absorbed. Athens has to do the opposite to stay in the race.

The question you are most often asked?

«How can you still be there?!” I do not belong to any political party. What makes me stay is the passion for my city and my job.

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You are known to be a defender of civil society and you have put in place a form of governance that allows a true participation of citizens in the management of the city.

Yes, it is the “Syn Athina” project, which was awarded by the Bloomberg Foundation two years ago, from a selection of 150 European cities. An ancient proverb says: “Syn Athina kai chira kini.” The Athenian citizen must do something for his city and not expect everything from it. We have created a web platform where citizens can share their ideas, exchange experiences, work hand-in-hand with the Municipality of Athens to implement innovative projects. To that end, we have created the post of deputy mayor for civil society.

In the field of social innovation, Athens is very advanced compared to other cities and we are currently in the spotlight as co-hosts of the prestigious Documenta 14 contemporary art gala. At the press conference, you said that this event was “as important for Athens as the Olympic Games”. What did you mean?

With the current crisis, many young Greeks had gone to study in the artistic fields abroad. Documenta 14 gave them a port unity to come back to create here in Athens. This is one of the reasons why the Documenta 14 organizers chose to move the event to Athens, before it returned to its usual place, Kassel in Germany. We are very proud of this because Athens is a very active, dynamic city in the cultural field. There are approximately 200 theatres, which are full every night. We must live up to the expectations of the Documenta audience, and show that artistic creation here is deep and solid.

Documenta 14, Food for Thought at Kotzia Square

What other major projects are in the works for Athens?

We want Athens to become a tourist destination in itself, not just a transit point with a stop at the Acropolis before heading for the islands. For the past three years, we have been actively pursuing this policy, which is beginning to bear fruit. More and more tourists come throughout the year, for a duration of more than 2 days.

The campaign we are conducting with the Athens International Airport and Aegean Airlines, “One city-never ending stories” shows a dynamic and contemporary city. It’s a totally digital campaign.

At the cultural level, Athens won the UNESCO bid to be the world’s book capital in 2018. The former managing director of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation’s cultural center, Yannis Trohopoulos, will direct this operation, which promises to be a high-profile, high-visibility event. In addition, we have begun to transform the centre of Athens into a pedestrian zone, with landscaping. It is difficult to enforce legality in the public space in Athens, when everyone is parked where he wants, makes the noise he wants, yet we want to do what it takes to make Athens a contemporary European city.

What do you think is the biggest challenge for Athens today?

To make the centre of Athens attractive again and bring young couples and the middle class back there. For years, the centre of Athens was neglected. The districts of Kypseli, Patissia and Agios Panteleimonas have become difficult for families to live there and this should change.

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My Island Affair

The iconic Poseidonion Grand Hotel,

Spotlight on Spetses Swedish entrepreneur and photographer Lisa Furuland Kotsianis shares her favourite summer snapshots of elegant Spetses, the Argo-Saronic treasure that’s often called “The Monaco of Greece”.

Orloff Tavern

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When did your romance with the island of Spetses begin?

We met a mere five years ago. But it was love at first sight.

How many times have you been back since?

We spend every summer, all summer, in the area. We have a house on the Peloponnesian mainland in Porto Heli, just across the bay from Spetses. We have delightful views of this gem of an island from our house. Spetses is very much part of our summer playground.

What’s the best way to get there?

Either you come by road from Athens, like we do, which is a 3 hour very scenic drive. Then, you catch a water taxi from the port of Kosta. It’s less than a 10-minute ride to cross the bay. Alternatively, you can get on a ferry from Piraeus (Athens). It’s only a 2.5 hour journey.

How is it different from other Greek islands?

Grand’s Verandah. For its cosmopolitan atmosphere (and celebrity spotting potential).

Your favourite beach or swimming spot?

No activity on Spetses compares to a trip out in a boat. Charter one and spend the day at sea. You will get to swim in the most amazing secluded coves all around the island, such as Zogeria, a stunning natural run of sandy bays with natural shade and shallow waters perfect for wading.

Where should we go for an always fabulous dining experience?

We find ourselves incredibly happy and at peace in this area which we have made ours and call our second home..

This small island has managed to be a key player in modern Greek history. The heroine Laskarina Bouboulina played a vital role in Greece’s war for independence, and Bouboulina built and commanded her own warships and took part in numerous naval battles. Her statue still defiantly looks out to sea from its position in front of the impressive Poseidonion Grand Hotel, a truly grand landmark built in 1914 – and at the heart of the Spetses social whirl.

The epitome of la belle époque’s timeless elegance, the Poseidonion has always attracted high-profile Athenians and a discerning international crowd.

There are also various exciting events organised throughout the year; Spetses Classic Car Race, the Tweed Run, the Spetses Classic Yacht Regatta which gives the island a ‘happening’ vibe. Not to mention satisfying my boys’ weakness for fine cars!

Every year, on the second week of September, the island also puts on one of its biggest shows, the Armata Festival, commemorating the famed battle in 1822, where 100 local ships took on 1000 Ottoman ships and triumphed. The Ottomans were ultimately forced to retreat after their Admiral’s flagship was torched. Many visitors comes to Spetses for this annual event that is celebrated with fireworks and the burning of a large wooden model of the Ottoman ship out in the bay.

Your favourite time of year to go there?

Any time from May to September.

Describe your perfect day in Spetses …

Best spot for a sunset cocktail?

“

In one sentence, how would you describe the vibe or mood of your island?

Classical island allure and elegance.

terrace before dinner. Or we pop over for a lazy Sunday lunch at one of the lovely seafront restaurants in the old harbour, and then stroll along the seafront back to Dapia (the new harbour), looking at all the beautiful neoclassical buildings and old sea captain’s mansions that line this gorgeous stretch, whilst being overtaken by horse carriages.

We often come out to play at night. We descend on the island for drinks, dinner and shopping in the evening. We make sure to get there before sunset, though, for a sundowner on Poseidonion Grand’s Verandah

It’s hard to beat the truly romantic allure of the Orloff tavern, situated only meters away from the shoreline, in a building from 1802, and overlooking the old harbour.

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

A drink on Grand’s Verandah, some shopping in the beautiful winding cobbled streets, a meal at one of the waterfront fish taverns, and a walk – or a carriage ride – between Dapia and the old harbour, with the clip-clop of beasts’ hooves serving as the everyday soundtrack.

If your island was a celebrity or other famous person, who would it be?

Someone with grace, integrity and style, someone like Audrey Hepburn.

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

Simply the seemingly endless, dazzling summers where the world – or more precisely, the prefecture of Argolida and the Saronic Islands, are your oyster. We find ourselves incredibly happy and at peace in this area which we have made ours and call our second home. The cornerstones of our quadrilateral area of summer bliss are: Porto Heli - with the amazing Amanzoe resort closeby, Ermioni - with its beautiful views and great little restaurants, Hydra - the fantastic timewarped charm of an isle with mariners’ mansions amphitheatrically arrayed around the harbour where extravagant yachts rub shoulders during peak season, and last but not least…Spetses. Is it gravity or attraction that keeps pulling me back? Needless to say, it’s the latter.

info Lisa Furuland Kotsianis is the founder and CEO of global baby sleep pod brands Sleepyhead® and DockATot®.

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My Island Affair

“

The beauty of Folegandros is that not much changes. .

Melissa Diamond

Chora from above

The Freedom of Folegandros Greek-American Fitness Trainer Melissa Diamond cherishes Friendly Folegandros for many reasons – its tranquility, its hospitality, but most of all, for the precious gift of freedom that this timeless Cycladic treasure bestows on her two young children.

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Travel

Panagia Church

My love affair with Folegandros began …

When I first travelled there six years ago to visit friends and experience the unique way that Greek Easter is celebrated. I immediately felt as though I’d stepped back in time to a Greece reminiscent of the 70s.

Greek Easter Folegandros-style was unusual in that it lasts for three days after Sunday and transpires into a procession and tour of the whole island. The icon visits those who choose to open their doors and welcome not only the blessing of the priest, but all of the people following behind! We’ve never missed an Easter on hospitable Folegandros – or a summer holiday for that matter – ever since.

Has it changed much over the years?

The beauty of Folegandros is that not much changes. There has been a quiet expansion of the main town (Chora) with some new shops, but the island itself and its residents have maintained a magical balance of offering visitors much to see and do without interfering with the inherent raw beauty. Even in summer, beaches are not consumed by sunbeds and umbrellas.

How is Folegandros different from other islands?

Having travelled to many Greek islands large and small, Folegandros differs in that the pace leaves you feeling calm. Stress and anxiety falls away as the island provides so many majestic views and timeless ways to fill your day, like meandering paths which lead to crystal blue waters, walks through Chora and its stunning Kastro. You can’t help but breathe deeply and say “WOW”. Thanks to its size and contours, Folegandros is an island that’s made to be explored by foot.

What’s the best way to get there?

High Speed Ferries (5 hours) and the Slower Car Ferry (9 hours) leave from Piraeus regularly during summer. Many choose flights to neighboring Santorini or Naxos and then use local ferry services to connect to Folegandros. Of course there is always the heliport!

In a word, how would you describe the vibe or mood of your island?

Soothing.

Your favourite time of year to go there?

If you are a fan of nature and hiking, then visit late April and May for the wild flower explosion of color. Beach fans will be happy all summer. The season extends through October and most visitors enjoy this laidback period.

Describe your perfect day there?

Start the day by lingering over breakfast in Chora before venturing up

Ampeli Beach

to the Church of Panagia for views to the whole island and its neighbors. The direction of the wind will determine which beach to go to for snorkeling around the coves. Make a stop at the bakery and stock up on local specials such as “karpouzenia” and “kalasouna”. By evening, it’s time to head back to Chora and walk through the Kastro and catch the always amazing sunset at Bar Rakentia. The perfect end to the day is a spot of night shopping and a true Italian Gelato at O Theios (The Uncle), the only of its kind on the island.

Your favourite beach or swimming spot?

Ambeli is exactly what a small island beach should be and also home to the only source of local vegetation on this rocky outcrop. It’s more of a swimming spot as opposed to our family favorite beach Agali where we love taking the caique over to Agios Nikolas beach.

Where should we go for an always fabulous dining experience?

Although Chora is where most eating options are, not to be missed is Irene’s in Ano Meria (the only other village). Open all year round for the locals as a kafenion, Irene and her grandaughter will feed you the real matsata: which is the Folegrandros home-made pasta, along with other daily home-made dishes. The view from Papalagi Seafood restaurant in Agios Nikolas beach is also not to be missed ...chilled wine and tuna carpaccio makes it bliss.

Where should we stay?

Accomodation on Folegandros ranges from an upstanding and popular camp ground (Camping Livadi) to mid-range rooms like Aria and extends to some fantastic higher end hotels such as the Anemi. Booking for mid-July through to end of August is very difficult. People often book 6 months in advance. Recently many villa owners have opened their doors in August and can be found on air bnb.

Do you have a favourite special memory on Folegandros

Three years ago, when my husband and I opened our shop, Folegandros T-Shirts, our children (then 7 and 9 years old) were on the loose and spent most nights running through the town with local children and foreigners alike, playing hide-and-go-seek or catch. One customer remarked how there was nowhere else nowadays where children could roam as safely and freely as they seemed to do here in Folegandros. I told her that I had been uneasy myself at first, until I was reassured by “the Yiayia mafia”. Behind each door rests an elder who is keenly watching the goings on around town and notes all the whos, wheres and whats. Folegandros is giving my children the chance to experience the same safe freedom that I had while spending my summers in Greece in the 70s.

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My Island Affair

Naoussa

Paros Moments Peter Poulos

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Part-time Parian Peter Poulos opens up his Paros address book to help you get the best from this cosmopolitan Cycladic gem.

Travel

My love affair with the island of Paros began when?

In 1984

How many times have you been back since?

Every summer since and for the last few years too many times to count.

Dixty. Late afternoon drink at Fotis in Naoussa on the little harbor. Nap followed by dinner at Marios on the Old Harbor followed by a drink (or ten) at Agosta. All of this with my partner Mark, our dog Stavros and our Parian parea.

Best spot for a sunset cocktail?

Fotis in Naoussa.

Has it changed much over the years? (If so, how?)

Of course it’s changed more people, more buildings, much better food and better roads. Thankfully the people haven’t changed, still as hospitable and friendly as ever.

Your favourite beach or swimming spot? (and why?)

How is my island so different from other islands?

Where should we go for an always fabulous dining experience?

Paros grows much of its own food and produces its own wine so Parians have a deep connection and respect for the land and nature.

What’s the best way to get there?

You can fly but I like taking the boat. I welcome the downtime the boat offers and like cruising on the Aegean. All part of the experience of travelling to a Greek island in my opinion.

In a word, how would you describe the vibe or mood of your island?

Hospitable.

Your favourite time of year to go there?

I like Paros during Greek Easter when the place is covered in wild flowers. On Good Friday I like to travel around to all the island churches and see the different decorated epitafios (Christ’s tomb).

“

Parians have a deep connection and respect for the land and nature

Epitafios

Describe your perfect day there?

Morning walk around the Piperi peninsula with a quick swim at the little beach. Head to little Santa Maria beach for sunbathing and long swims.

Apres beach lunch at To

Little Santa Maria Beach, the unorganized side. Protected from the wind and the most crystal clear waters.

I have four recommendations. Marios in Naoussa, hands down the best restaurant on the island. To Dixty for lunch at Little Santa Maria Beach, Little Green Rocket in Paroikia when you want a change from Greek food and The Aegean Deli in Paroikia for honest, delicious Aegean fare.

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

Visit the church of Ekatontapyliani in Paroikia and then go shopping at Yria.

If your island was a celebrity or other famous person, who would it be?

Princess Tatiana and Prince Nikolaos of Greece: beauty, brains and heart.

Do you have a favourite special memory or moment on your island?

Paros is my happy place so many of my life’s favorite moments have taken place there like my 30th, 40th and 50th birthdays. Some other list toppers are visits from my sister Maria and her husband David, my best friends Vince, Tom and Sandy and my partner Mark. I have to say that finding our dog Stavros at Santa Maria Beach was a life changer as well.

Finally, can you bear to share one true Insider secret with us about your island?

Hike to the Paros lighthouse from Monasteri Beach on an overcast day.

Yria

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Venetian Odyssey Mike Sweet heads to Crete to explore the alleyways of La Canea, some ancient legacies and a truly serene hotel Serenissima Boutique Hotel

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Venetian society redefined Hellenistic expression - not least through the influence of the Italian Renaissance - is its most vital legacy. The artistic and literary revival that was the Renaissance was unparalleled in the Greek world, and in Crete, saw the creation of the Cretan School of Painting, which reached its pinnacle in the work of El Greco. Even more significantly, the uniting of Italian and Byzantine forms meant a distinctive literature using the local idiom emerged, culminating with the early 17th-century romances Erotokritos and Erophili - the most important and influential medieval Greek literature ever produced.

Walk like a Venetian

T

he dynasties who etched their existence on Crete left an indelible mark, not just in the built environment, but the culture of Greece itself, and nowhere is that felt more powerfully than in Chania. Of all those who ruled this most popular of Cretan cities, it was the Venetians whose presence remains most potent in the physical city we see today.

The Venetians called it La Canea when they arrived in the early 13th century, to create an outpost of the Serenissima (most serene) Republic of Venice, and it was the Venetians who over the following 400 years, constructed the town’s massive fortifications, most of which remain intact.

But just who were these Catholic Cretans and what do we know about them?

During their rule between 1215 and 1645, despite waves of settlement over more than 400 years, remarkably, the Venetians never amounted to more than about 10,000 individuals in the whole of Crete, concentrated in the main towns of Chania, Rethymno and Heraklion.

They were a small minority in a mostly Orthodox Cretan population that by 1500, had reached some 200,000.

As all Crete’s occupiers have found, it was not an easy relationship.

During the first two centuries of Venetian rule, fierce revolts by the Orthodox population against the Catholic Venetians were frequent.

Fourteen revolts took place between 1207 and the last major uprising, the Revolt of St. Titus in the 1360s, which united Greeks and the Venetian coloni against Venice’s direct control.

Despite this resistance, Chania and Crete prospered under the Venetians, economically and culturally; and their cultural impact - how

Serenissima Restaurant

To follow in the footsteps of the Venetians in Chania, Toponas is perhaps the most evocative quarter of Chania to begin your journey. Directly west and south of the port - hemmed in between the massive west wall, the seafront and the Old Town’s main street Chalidon - Toponas is a maze of alleyways, each with a story to tell. Theotokopoulou - the main street which runs north to south through Toponas - is the perfect start a journey of Venetian exploration. At its northern end lies the Venetian church of the San Salvatore and one of the main ancient gates of the city. Heading south, Angelo Street on the left, with its examples of early 17th century, residential architecture, leads directly to the harbour and Firkas fortress.

Construction of the fortress began in 1610 and was completed only a few years before the fall of the city to the Turks in 1645.

The site has added significance: on December 1, 1913, the Greek flag was raised here for the first time in the ceremony

Travel

Chania

Superior suite

There are scores of hotel options to choose from in the Old Town, but for the more discerning guest who wishes to immerse themselves in the walled city, Serenissima Boutique Hotel delivers a sophisticated five-star experience that is hard to match.

Housed in a former Venetian mansion dating from 1550, the building was bequethed to its present owner Stamatis Gkirtis by his grandfather. Mr Zkirtis began a loving renovation of the property in the early 2000s and opened its doors as a hotel in 2014.

As a member of the Yades Greek Historic Hotels Group, which celebrates Greece’s cultural heritage by uniting hotels of exceptional historical significance, like the 18 other properties in the Yades Collection, Serenissima’s ethos is all about providing its guests not only luxurious comfort and the highest

standards of customer service, but also a precious insight into the history and culture of Chania and its environs.

Hidden away on Skoufon Street (an olive stone’s throw from Tamam restaurant) Serenissima is a refuge of calm, comprising seven beautifully appointed rooms (including three breathtaking superior suites with generous balconies) designed in a warm minimalist style.

Coco-mat king mattresses and Molton Brown bath goodies give a hint at the attention to detail that is the mark of this refined establishment.

Complimenting the delicious accommodation, the hotel’s fine-dining restaurant, under the stewardship of chef Iosif Petrof, offers a menu that combines the finesse of French cuisine with the freshest Cretan ingredients.

Good taste? Serenissima has it in spades. If you’re after serenity, luxury and relaxation in Chania’s Old Town, this is a place to savour.

Getting there

Luxurious history

that marked Crete’s unification with Greece. Heading east along the waterfront, past the domed Yali Tzami mosque which dominates the approach to the port’s eastern basin, keep walking, and you’ll pass the Megalo Arsenali. Constructed by the Venetians to construct and repair their galleys, today the building hosts the Centre of Mediterranean Architecture. Beyond are seven smaller arsenals that provide a further insight of the harbour’s operations during Venetian rule. To complete your walk head out along the mole to Chania’s iconic lighthouse, built by the Venetians around 1600, and rebuilt by the Egyptians in the mid-19th century.

Aegean Airlines operates four services daily from Athens to Chania. Ryanair also flies to Chania.

Mike Sweet is a Corresponding Member of the Society of Cretan Historical Studies and was a guest of Serenissima Boutique Hotel and Yades Greek Historic Hotels. Mike travelled from Athens to Chania with the assistance of Aegean Airlines Skytrax ‘Best Regional Airline 2016’ The author of this article is indebted to Heraklion-based historians Michele Buonsanti and Alberta Galla for use of their research provided in their book Candia Veneziana - Venetian Itineraries through Crete published by Mystis.

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Agora

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a P in

y ousl m a f rhis aste on t m ) r a e tt s t ma os give a h t s or as dal f ander P n a s lex (or ard ail-A h w r c i o f M foot ditor g e n n o io wr fash . the s t ’ r u e k p Loo t to Insid s n ? a o d tm an ’t w e isl ff the Pa Don l b a o ion fash n pulling si clas

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Sophie Deloudi Olive Poncho Dress, 150 €

Elena Karavasili-Striped Amara Tote, 360 €

BlancNatural Straw Cloche, 62€

Most Chic-Bronze Lotus Flatforms, 138 €

Zeus & Dione-Hera Silk Dress, 365 €

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Kallisti - Fishnet Stretch Side Tie Bikini, 180 €

The Line Project - Draped Belted Dress, 115 €

The Penguin King Euclid Assymetrical Pyramid Necklace 30 €

Kallisti - Fishnet Stretch High-Waisted Bikini, 190 €

Most Chic-Black Nubuck Dalia Slippers, 164 €

Ilias Lalaounis Gold Python Cuff Bracelet 2690€

Nassos Ntotsikas to. ock ss code (Back Side) Knot Knit Dress rs fl o re t i d as n ed nd’s sland h 166€ shio the isla i a a e f hol nd d king rs a eful an d the w pac e ts t o s n i an ht c A-l eac mea ere d lig o the nd p pristine h time h a n w a t r t ie e ac tion wea s qu s ar own t be oca hing Beache All tha swim sities d s! t he l t e e k k d . el an The Motly Goat s li ces ed. dal ls li d fe icat oca iece l the ne nd san umhe l hist ashione riate p l s a p T a f Stripped Circular Dress, 102 € & o g e y ba bri ry s rop of ld-f carr tote is ve poilt, o her-app rs. To for a e rest Silk Print Tote Bag, 46 € lish me e s y h t t t o n n a o s c n u r e n a w di fo rs an find late st in arm isito ear, w w ses for inve ile v after y hey can ny and e h o f t w o t d, ar dres ’ll need harm a trade slan , ye orce ton ou oly i turning cable f diates n h o e a n re, y ra itio Ven xpli sho s , it’s d up re s e s o d o n k i n p a n atm ite en ree Its to a tery, P ners es. ge S he G and s ipow Herita scap To t ojourn ding y h d n s m n o la s ld sp ek in Gre Wor rtile mer ives, re eeped -a infe y drew l t , a l S r r u i o f the Ch orit lse. auti s in auth re e s be whe from it ligious t palace re ce buil pea and its who s e t t n rou cha mer tian

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the Seams

Greek at

The fashionista’s favourite Greek label, Zeus +Δione, debuted six years ago. Founders Mareva Grabowski and Dimitra Kolotoura had a vision that was both entrepreneurial and philanthropic: the duo wanted to create a brand that ‘would give life back’ to struggling Greek villages who survived on crafts, in particular, Soufli, one of Greece’s endangered silk heartlands. Now, the company employs twenty people and collaborates with more than 70 craftspeople from all over Greece, including a feltmaker! Michail-Alexander Passos hears their inspiring success story.

Tell us about your beginnings …

The idea of Zeus+Δione came as a romantic reaction towards the negative environment and financial turmoil that our country was going through. We felt the need to stand against the perception that Greeks are lazy and unproductive. We travelled all around the country and we identified people, factories and workshops whom we could cooperate with. Our specifications were very strict and everything was about top quality. From the beginning - we had a clear vision and a specific mission, to revive and redefine the Greek craftsmanship, forgotten techniques and translate our creations into everyday fashion pieces.

addressed to an internationally selected audience. Named after the parents of the ancient Greek Goddess of love, beauty and eternal youth, the brand is characterized by a unique interpretation of myth and tradition. Moreover, the Greek letter, Delta Δ, is a predominant undertone of the brand, alluding to spirituality, harmony and creativity.

What does the Zeus+Δione brand stand for?

Zeus+Δione is a luxury fashion & lifestyle brand that uses the Greek heritage and tradition as an inspiration to produce high-end products

Everything you do is produced here. Are buyers sensitive to this?

“Made in Greece” is much more than just a label for us. When we describe something as Made in Greece, it gains a big value. It means

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How important are the components/materials used? What constitutes luxury, when it comes to clothes?

Luxury in clothes means uniqueness, aesthetics and quality. In Zeus+Δione we use the finest silk for our collections and the best quality of materials when it comes to our accessories.

Fashion

“

The light, the architecture, the stones and the sea are in the DNA of our brand.

that it comes with a great history in creativity and craftsmanship and we want to unfold this notion to the world. At first, buyers were taken by surprise but eventually the product itself proved that what we were describing, was also the case!

How is your label received internationally?

Foreigners seem to like our collections and they fall in love with the story behind our brand. Moreover, Greece is related to the absolute summer destination, therefore, our label represents the total summer-luxury-fashion brand and our feedback is always positive!

With the crisis, do you believe that Athens has now become a creative hub?

Every crisis brings opportunities. Looking back in history, the greatest creations were made under a lot of pressure and pain. Creations are a way of expressing feelings and thoughts.

The positive outcome of the financial turmoil was that we all started looking internally for raw materials, production workshops and workforce. As with most communities, Greeks and Athenians have found their own way of overcoming the economic downfall through creativity and this will appear as a positive opportunity in the future.

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

Dimitra Kolotoura and Mareva Grabowski

Teamwork! Working together with people who share the same attributes is the main ingredient for success! Then Dedication – Passion – and Authenticity follow. Three terms that keep us strong for the good and the bad turns in our industry. We are very passionate about what we do, we are dedicated on a full time basis and we know our values.

Will the Greek-heritage-influence be visible in your next collection too? If yes, what does it translate to, in the clothes?

The light, the architecture, the stones and the sea are in the DNA of our brand. All our collections are inspired by something Greek. It can be found in the details of our clothes, the name of a collection and the story behind a collection.

Finally, a restaurant or bar in Athens you’d highly recommend is…

There is no place or view like the restaurant on top of Grande Bretagne Hotel. The food is amazing and the view is breathtaking as you can enjoy your dinner overlooking the lights of the city and the Acropolis.

info www.zeusndione.com

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Siren of

What induced you to make a career out of swimwear design?

It was a wish I had since I was 17 years old. Back then, during the glorious decade of the 1980s, Princess Stephanie of Monaco designed a collection of swimwear and swimsuits. As soon as I laid my eyes on it, I knew that this was my dream. It’s also probably due to my love for the summer and the sea. Or because I was astonished when I saw top model Elle MacPherson in a swimsuit in French Elle magazine for the first time when I was young. Or none of the above…

What are your current fascinations and how do they feed into your work?

The thing that captures and inspires me always is art, in any form.

Painting, sculpture, photography, cinema. You just see something and automatically it affects you, it brings out emotions. You may not even realize why, there is no explanation. It just inspires you, and you want to transfer this feeling to your work.

How would you describe your last collection?

Feminine, soft, harmonious, friendly, with nothing trying to impose an impression. A color palette of pastels and prints inspired by the Cubist era and specifically by the French painter Francis Picabia.

How have your collections evolved over time?

There is no specific order or process in capturing a concept or inspiration. It could start with a fabric or print that I see and like; it could be a piece of art, as happened in this year’s collection; or it could be an internal need for change of vision for a next collection. When I work on a collection for almost a year, the need for something different for the next year is very intense. I may not change my style a lot but I will certainly change the color palette and the aura of the final result.

Repetition tires me. When I am done with the concept, the rest of the process includes mostly practical details: I will have to find and design

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Art and function are co-conspirators in the stunning creations of Sophie Deloudi. One of Greece’s leading swimwear designers, with a strong international presence, Sophie’s collections are the result of an exceptionally elegant but also easyto-wear design concept, discovers Insider’s fashion editor Michail-Alexander Passos.

Fashion

“

the Seas

The thing that captures and inspires me always is art, in any form

the prints we will use, the patterns, then create the samples, etc.

Do swimwear designers need to follow trends to the same degree?

Of course I am affected a lot by what’s happening in fashion. And I follow these trends as long as they can be adapted to my aesthetics. I will not do something just because it is a trend. Moreover, fashion is so open that there is no strict trend that limits you.

What is your favourite piece from your newest collection and why?

I really love one-piece creations and I think that these are the pieces that stand out in my collections. It is the piece in which you can mostly express your creativity; one-piece swimwear reflects the personality of the designer better.

Where do you see your career evolving next?

I think that it is going step by step the way it should. I don’t know exactly where this route leads, but I do know that a certain, unknown, wisdom points in a direction only when we are ready.

What key pieces every woman should have in her summer wardrobe?

Sunscreen lotion and sunglasses – nothing else is obligatory.

Which is your favourite swimming pool in Athens?

I prefer going to the sea. We live in one of the few countries in the world whose capital is only 20 km away from the sea. So, why choose a swimming pool?

info

For stockists of Sophie Deloudi swimwear, visit www.sophiedeloudi.gr/stockists/

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Greek

Chic

Cristina Butler has curated a list of the best Greek stylists to enhance your summer wardrobe.

For tunics and kaftans vintage, bohemian and ethnic that can be worn for all occasions, look to ChristianZen couture.

The milliner Katarina Karoussos draws hats with chic and classical lines that convey timeless glamour.

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Fashion

Labros Semeli finds inspiration in the forms of nature to create jewels that undulate softly, giving the illusion of movement.

Eleanna Katsira uses traditional Greek materials such as leather, canvas, ropes to make accessories both practical and design.

The earth-inspired hues of Eleni Chatzigeorgiou’s ethnic bags and handmade sandals will ensure you always put the right foot forward in the sartorial stakes.

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Adventure

e fo Tim ra Sea e

ang

Ch

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Greece is a world-renowned tourist destination for sailing holidays, yet it’s not the hub for professional racing sailing that its climate and location warrants.

Graham Wood talks to Akis Tsarouchis, a passionate sailing guru who is trying to remedy all that. access to facilities, organized marinas, service points, etc, as well as their close proximity to one another. Greece has beautiful destinations and is a unique place for sailing but is only really now developing the infrastructure needed to accommodate big regattas. Yes, major events have taken place here in the past, but we cannot be considered a hub.

Not yet at least.”

So location is, in effect, a barrier to Greece’s development in many ways.

“That’s right,” Tsarouchis agrees. “The long travel time of yachts from the current Mediterranean ‘hubs’, along with the lack of infrastructure, are the main barriers. On top of that, the economic climate prevents sponsors from being keen to support such attempts thus leaving yacht clubs to struggle to raise the funding needed.”

While time will tell if Tsarouchis and his fellow seamen at the Piraeus Sailing Club can have a major effect of the current status quo.

What is certain is the effort and innovation they are bringing to the table with the Sailing Spot arm of the club.

As well as time on the water, Sailing Spot, which was set up in March, offers a unique digital experience using 360 cameras, VR, smartphones and smartwatches in a cooperation with Samsung so that students get the most out of their training and progress much faster and with less effort. Additionally, students have access to other activities such as yoga, fitness, skiing and seminars.

Adds Tsarouchis: “Our target audience is mainly for the professional adult, people who see sailing as a sporting and recreational activity where they find peace and fun away from their busy everyday office lives with like-minded individuals – anyone can join, regardless of prior sailing experience; we’re here to teach everything needed so that anyone can start enjoying sailing.”

What was it the famous sailor Webb Chiles, the first American to sail solo around Cape Horn, said? “A sailor is an artist whose medium is the wind.” Now if that’s not romantic enough to get you excited about joining the sailing revolution then I don’t know what is.

“

O

n the face of it, Greece should be the European epicenter for professional sailing. It’s got everything.

A perfect climate, ideal wind conditions, beautiful locations, and plenty of sea. Unfortunately, apart from all those factors, which have actually made it a much-loved hub for sailing holidays, Greece still comes up short when it comes to catering for the world’s professional racing sailors.

Why? Put simply, the international sailing community tend to associate Greece with relaxation rather than regattas.

Tsarouchis, one of Piraeus Sailing Club’s prominent sailing coaches and among Greece’s most experienced yachtsmen, is trying to change that. Spearheading the club’s newest initiative, Sailing Spot, which is a club for adults to learn the trade of match racing, Tsarouchis recently organized two high profile events, the Skiathos Palace Cup (18-21 May) and the Aegina Challenge (22-23 April). A total of 15 teams from all over Greece competed for the Skiathos title at Koukounaries bay, one of Greece’s most epic beaches. A month before that, it was the Aegina harbour offering a unique tier for spectators. Both went down exceptionally well, especially among the local communities, and the momentum is building.

“With events like these, the aim is to develop sailing in parts of Greece away from its capital and promote a sport that for a country like Greece, should be the equivalent to skiing for an alpine country,” Tsarouchis tells Insider.

“Efforts like these, apart from developing the sport of sailing, help in generating a new touristic product and highlight parts of Greece as destinations for yachting activities. What we want is to provide a training platform for adults seeing sailing more as a sport rather than just for vacations, and that’s why the Piraeus Sailing Club has launched this new division, Sailing Spot, which does exactly that: trains adults, at any level, to be able to compete in such events.”

Indeed, for all its popularity for the vacationing sailing jetset, there still remains an absence of large professional regattas. And therein lies the problem for Tsarouchis.

“To attract interest you must be able to host major events, meaning large-scale regattas with all leading crews and yachts participating,” he says. “Most of those type of yachts reside in specific places in the Mediterranean such as Palma, Sardinia and the French Riviera. Why? Because of easy

For a country like Greece, (sailing) should be the equivalent to skiing for an alpine country

info For more info, visit www.iop.gr/sailingspot

insider athens | 49

This isn’t England, m ate. Peo ple have a di fferent v iew of time h ere.

Green tea and Sympathy GREEK STYLE Greeks. They have an in-built fatalism, a completely different concept of time ‌ and they will always get by, no matter the sorry state of things, argues John Carr.

50 | insider athens

Humour

Minutes later an old man shuffled up and took a chair. He was plainly dressed in old trousers and a much-washed shirt, but the shirt looked clean. He had a white hat on his head. Seated, he doffed his hat and wiped the sweat off his forehead. He looked about him expressionlessly for a few moments, but his face lit up at the sight of Jim Tzimos. “How are you today, Kyrie Kosta?” Jim said, bounding up to prepare him a meze.

Kyrios Kosta gave a rasping, sarcastic laugh. He, too, had watched the morning news. But he could laugh about it. He made a circular motion with his hand, the timeless Greek gesture that combines subtle ridicule with worldly-wise fatalism.

“See?” Jim said. “The Greeks will always get by.” Whether by keeping their money under the bed or figuring out endless permutations in an unregistered economy, they will stubbornly resist being turned into helpless Euro-pawns on the globalized elite chessboard, and eventually survive.

I am reminded of a true story once told me by someone in the shipping business. A visiting British businessman was in a taxi on his way to an important meeting in Piraeus when the cab hit a massive traffic jam somewhere in the labyrinthine port area. The meeting was for eleven o’clock. With the taxi stuck, the minute and second hands on the passenger’s watch climbed relentlessly, along with his blood pressure. The cabbie noticed his discomfiture and turned around. He could speak English, and may have been a Greek-Australian.

“

I

f you’re looking for something, or someone, to make the inside of your head a slightly brighter and happier place in these parlous times, Jim Tzimos is your guy. If you’ve just switched off the terrifying evening news on Greek television and you’ve come to the awful conclusion that by next year we’ll be eating out of rubbish bins, call on Jim Tzimos. He’ll set you to rights.

To disperse the dark cloud of Helleno-pessimism one morning recently, I strolled into central Halandri to find him at his kafeneion.

He’s the proprietor of a modest little nook just off the main square. And an honest-to-goodness kafeneion it is – no mock-French upholstery, no pretentious mock-Italian name, no overpriced stale sandwiches or rubbery crepes. Just basic iron chairs and tables with mountain village rugs for cushions, and Jim Tzimos himself pouring ouzos and brewing Greek coffee in his tiny kitchen space.

I pulled out a chair under a stunted fig tree. Jim sauntered out, smiling under his long curly jet-black hair and through his hipster beard (I keep wondering when that fad will fade and shaving gear salesmen will be able to make a living again). In one hand he had his tobacco tin and ciggy papers and smartphone, and in the other a round tray with a smart-looking pot of green tea on it. He knows what I’ll have before I ask for it.

“Have you seen the news this morning?” I groaned. “More pension cuts, tax hikes, the Troika striding in and out of the Hilton like they own the country, politicians who truckle to them like servants, narcissist

In times of disaster the Greek spirit shows itself at its most courageous and energetic journalists who think they own the country, striking metro drivers who think they own the country, safe-busting gangs who think they own the country... I mean, like, what’s gonna happen?”

I was getting into my peroration when Jim Tzimos lifted a languid hand. He rolled a cig and rocked back in his chair. “What’s gonna happen?” he echoed, blowing out a cloud of smoke. “Nothing, that’s what.”

Tearing open a small plastic tube of honey and squeezing it carefully into my green tea, I looked up at him. Was it the Halandri air, or what?

What did he mean, nothing’s going to happen? Jim gestured languidly into the pedestrianized little opening in front of us. The sunshine was brilliant. Birds sang merrily in the trees. You could half-shut your eyes and imagine you were on an island somewhere. Two women in their early twenties walked by with shopping bags. Their skin-tight designer jeans and waisted spring jackets proclaimed to all and sundry that they had enough leisure to spend time in the gym. Their peroxide blonde coiffes were flawless.

“Do they look like people who are suffering economically?” Jim said.

“Sure they do,” I said. “Why, look at those gaping holes in their jeans.”

Jim put his hand over his eyes, shook his head and chuckled. Maybe he took me seriously.

But he had a point. Recently I came across a comment by Sir Steven Runciman, the great Byzantinist and mediaevalist. In the third volume of his exhaustive (and exhausting) The Crusades, he writes: “In times of disaster the Greek spirit shows itself at its most courageous and energetic.”

“What time’s your appointment, mate?” he said.

“Eleven o’clock, and now it’s five to eleven. I’ll never make it!’”

The cabbie smiled through the rear-view mirror.

“Is this your first time in Greece?’”

“Yes. But what has that got--?”

“This isn’t England, mate. People have a different view of time here.

You’ll make your appointment, don’t worry.”

“What, at half past eleven, or even twelve? That’s too late.”

“No it isn’t. Let me tell you, mate, nobody in a Greek office expects people to turn up at the stated hour. If you do, they consider you a pushover. You’ve got to make ‘em wait. They’ll respect you more. Half an hour – an hour – who’s counting? Whenever we get there, we get there. And if whoever you’re meeting really needs to see you, they’ll see you no matter what. Right?”

The British businessman had his misgivings, but in the circumstances could do nothing. But he did have a weird feeling that his systolic blood pressure had relaxed somewhat. He got to his destination at eleven-thirty on the dot, apologizing profusely, and – get this – had to wait twenty more minutes before the shipping executive could see him. But the job got done – and without the tyranny of the clock.

Sitting in the sun with Jim Tzimos in Halandri, clocks don’t count.

And neither, oddly, does the television news. “It’s gonna be okay, man, it’s gonna be okay. Another prasino tsai? This one’s on me.”

insider athens | 51

Book Nook

Courage under Fire

Anita Shreve

The acclaimed American novelist Anita Shreve delights again with this haunting and dexterous tale of a life destroyed by Nature’s fury and then rebuilt, says Anna Roins.

T

he Stars Are Fire is an instant New York Times bestseller and the 18th novel of masterful, Anita Shreve, awarded for her literary page-turners.

It’s a story about self-discovery and love, within the secret spaces of relationships. The setting is Maine, 1947, when a series of wildfires burned for ten days, and a quarter of a million acres, nine towns and millionaire-row mansions, were burned to the ground. You might think that a story set in the forefront of catastrophic wildfires might be too hot to handle over summer, but the writing is so cool, so understated, that it’s almost like going for a dip.

Shreve’s main character, Grace Holland, is five months pregnant with a sense of foreboding about her stifling marriage. When the fires start, her difficult husband, Gene, a WWII veteran, joins the volunteer firefighters. Grace and her two toddlers are left alone in the fictional town of Hunts Beach. When her house goes up in flames, Grace races to the water’s edge with her best friend, Rosie and the children. They cover themselves up with wet blankets and burrow themselves deep into the chilly sand. The next morning, they are met with devastation their lives changed forever. Homeless, penniless, and their husbands missing, they are forced to put one foot in front of the other to survive.

Grace’s life as she knows it has been destroyed, but it also offers

52 | insider athens

the hope of a fresh start. She moves her family into her deceased mother-in-law’s grand old home (featured in a few of Shreve’s books) and finds work as a secretary at a doctor’s office. A handsome young pianist rents one of her rooms, filling the house with Brahms Second Piano Concerto and for the first time, Grace, with a sense of fulfilment, like light glinting through ashes. Then the unthinkable happens, and Grace's courage is tested again. The question of whether she will prevail or submit is what keeps the reader cheering on.

Shreve unfolds her story using simple words in the present tense, constrained yet bursting with cadence and feeling. It’s like a still-life picture book that looks commonplace at first glance, then extraordinary upon closer inspection. The dexterity she exhibits at exposing her characters’ inner facets makes them come to life.

The account of the fires is alarming, and the portrait of a bad marriage is bleak in The Stars Are Fire, yet her protagonist rises to the challenge like a phoenix from the flames with her kindness and fortitude. This book leaves the reader with an unexpected sense of hope.

info The Stars Are Fire by Anita Shreve, (Knopf) is available at Public.

Insider guide restaurant index by type

refer to corresponding area for more information and contact details

AMERICAN

TGI FRIDAY’S The Burger Joint The Burger Joint

Kolonaki Glyfada Psychico

BAR - RESTAURANTS

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

BEER RESTAURANTS

Silly Wizards

Ag. Paraskevi

CHINESE

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

FISH

Ai Nikolas CAPTAIN JOHN’S

Syngrou Piraeus

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

FRENCH

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

GOURMET

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

GREEK

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

OLIVE GARDEN Monastiraki Pallas Athena Monastiraki PSOMI & ALATI Halandri RAKOKAZANO Halandri PROSOPA Gazi Rena tis Ftelias Psychico THIO TRAGI Petralona TO KOUTI Monastiraki YANTES Exarhia YDRIA Plaka

GRILL

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

INDIAN

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

Syngrou Syngrou Syntagma Thissio Glyfada Kifissia Gazi

INTERNATIONAL

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

ITALIAN

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

Tuttitalia VEZENE Vespa Rosa VINCENZO

Kolonaki Hilton Pangrati Glyfada

JAPANESE

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

KOREAN

Dosirak

Syntagma

KOSHER

Gostijo

Psyrri

LEBANESE

FALAFELLAS NARGILE SUZANNA

Psyrri Kifissia Faliro

MEDITERRANEAN

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

AMIGOS Glyfada DOS HERMANOS Kifissia EL TACO BUENO Halandri GREXICO MEXICAN STREET FOOD Monastiraki Taqueria Maya Syntagma

MEZEDES AND OUZO

MULTI ETHNIC

Altamira

Psychico Omonia Kolonaki Thissio Kolonaki Plaka

Kolonaki

Marousi Kifissia Plaka

PERSIAN

ANAHITA

Halandri

PUB RESTAURANTS

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

Piraeus Glyfada Thissio

ROOFTOP DINING

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

SOUVLAKIA AND KEBAB

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

SCANDINAVIAN

SAFKA

Kerameikos

SPANISH

JAMON PINTXOS BAR Glyfada LA GABINOTECA Kifissia SALERO Exarhia

TAVERNAS

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

THAI

ANDAMAN BLUE BAMBOO ROUAN THAI ROYAL THAI TAMARIND

Petralona Petralona Piraeus Kifissia Metaxourgeio

TURKISH

Mutfak

MEXICAN

Antaios ATHINAIKON CINCO KIRKI OUZADIKO SCHOLARHEIO

Altamira BUBA LA PANTERA NEGRA

VEGETARIAN

Avocado MAMMA TIERRA NICE N EASY TO VAZAKI yi

WINE BARS

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

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

insider athens | 53

To advertise, contact ads@insider-magazine.gr

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

Atrium

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

Indian Chef

Athanasiou Diakou 22, Tel: 210.923.3585

Indian Haveli Syngrou Ave. 12, Tel: 210.924.4522

Mani Mani

Falirou 10, Tel: 210.921.8180 Peloponnesian specialities with Mediterranean touches

SENSE Fine Dining Restaurant

EAT Chez Violette

Kallidromiou 69, Tel: 210.384.5974

Fabrica de Vino

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

Valtetsiou 51, Tel: 210.381.3358, Spanish and mediterranean cuisine in the heart of Exarhia

Yantes

Valtetsiou 44, Tel: 210.330.1369 Modern Greek cuisine prepared with organic ingredients.

DRINK

Ginger Ale

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

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

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

Kolovos

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

Silly Wizards

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

Da Vinci

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

Nama

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

Nanninela

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

Νisson Gi

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

54 | insider athens

Warehouse

Mavromihali 41Tel: 215.540.8002

EAT

Faliro

Ag.Paraskevi

EAT

Sense Fine Dining Restaurant

Salero

Bouillabaisse

The Big Kahuna

Salaminos 42, Tel: 210.524.4100 Exotic street food

Butcher’s Shop

Persefonis 19, Tel: 210.341.3440 Traditional psistaria serving grilled meat dishes

Kohenoor

Triptolemou 41, Tel: 210.345.5762 Indian authentic specialties in a neat setting

Prosopa

Meg. Vasiliou 52 & Konstantinoupoleos 4 Tel: 210.341.3433, Delicious dishes in a warm atmosphere right beside the train tracks. A popular gay haunt.

Thalatta

Vitonos 5, Tel: 210.346.4204 Fresh seafood creations

Zisimopoulou 28, Tel: 210.942 5203

DRINK

Da Bruno

Bars, Clubs & Lounges

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

DruiD Afroditis 57, Tel: 210.984.8151

Il Tinello

Knossou 54, Tel: 210.982.8462 Real Italian home cookin

Kitchen Bar

Poseidonos 3, Tel: 210.981.2004 Comfort food overlooking the sea

Suzanna

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

DRINK Zinc

EAT

“Flisvos” Marina, Tel: 210.985.3183 Cocktails whith music

PIXI

Evmolpidon 11, Tel: 210.342.3751 Get in to the groove

Plastiko

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

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

Tapas Bar

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

EAT

Glyfada

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

Korai Sq 5Tel: 213.037.0700 Strictly for carnivores!

Gazi

Acropolis Museum Restaurant

Steak-I

Exarhia

Acropolis

EAT

Bakeries & Patisseries Paul

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

Bios

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

Hoxton Bar

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

Gazarte

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

Gasoline

Restaurants All Senses Gastronomy

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

Aperitivo

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

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

Chef Yiannis Baxevanis brings Miamiinspired opulence to Glyfada

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

Drop the Fork

MoMix

Giouvetsakia

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

Lazaraki 10 & Dousmani 14, Tel: 210.968.0040 Ithomis 20 and Moreos, Tel: 210.964.8081 Organic mageirefta food

Hama

YI RECOMMENDS Summer Antioxidant smoothie with strawberry and chia seeds.

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

Holy Spirit

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

Il Salotto

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

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

Inbi

Lazaraki 26, Tel: 210.894.4982 Sushi fusion

Indi-Go

Konstantinoupoleos 15, Tel: 210.968. 0643

Jamon Pintxos Bar Keep Woking

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

La Casa Di Giorgino

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

Mimaya

Markou Botsari 8,Tel: 210.894.4850 Creative Mediterranean cuisine.

Molly Malone’s

Yannitsopoulou 8, Tel: 210.894.4247 Irish pub serving probably the best Irish Stew in Athens

Mutfak

Laodikis 38, Tel: 210.894.9060 Politiki Kouzina in a romantic setting

Nikolas tis schinousas

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

Spiti

Vinarte

Tartare

Cafes

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

The Burger Joint

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

Vincenzo

Giannitsopoulou 1, Tel: 210.894.1310 Value for money Italian specialities with a Southern Italian touch

Yi

Grigoriou Lampraki 69, Tel: 210.964.8512

CreperieS

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

Chocolat

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

EAT

Halandri

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

30 something

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

Anahita

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

the AlB acio To Paramythi Nomi Italian Restaurantteam moves Kyprou 9, Laodikis 47, to Tel: 210.894.1361 Tel: 210.898.6015 Glyfad Creperie in a fairy-tale setting a Terrific Italian fare at great prices

Apsendi

Pere Ubu

Bo Botrini’s

Kyprou 74, Tel: 211.215.8737 Fab burgers, great cocktails, right next to the sprawling UBU organic store

Sardelaki

Foivis 15, Tel: 211.402.1195 Sardines and seafood in a casual setting.

Sale Bianco da Salvotoro

Markou Botsari 10A, Tel: 210.898.6301, Authentic Italian food in an inviting atmosphere

Soleto

Laodikis 33, Tel: 210.968.0460

Su Casa

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

DRINK

Bars, Clubs & Lounges Balux

Posidonos 58, Tel: 210.898.3577 Waterfront lounging

Bourbon

Daskaroli 67, Tel: 210.964.7600 American style bar with rock, blues, soul music and live events

Capri Bay

Grigoriou Lambraki 2, Tel: 210.894.9995 Excellent cocktails in a Moroccan style garden

Mikro

Laodikis 33-35, Tel: 210.894.1031 Minimal decor with well-known Greek DJs

Kifissias 250-254 & Serron Tel: 210.671.7890, Refined cuisine and cocktails in stylish urban atmosphere Vasileos Georgiou B 24b, Tel: 210.685.7323 Athens’ best table by far

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

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

Saipan

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

Psomi & Alati

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

Rakokazano

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

Τo Vazaki - juice bar

Aristotelous 33, Tel: 210.680.0067

Chapeau

Wine Not

Sokratous 4, Tel: 210.684.5300, Une cuisine primée

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

Chefi’s

DRINK

Perikleous 31, Tel: 210.681.5774 Refined cuisine with international flavours and regular wine tastings

El Taco Bueno

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

Hide & Seek

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

Spiti Cocktail Bar

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

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EAT

Hilton

Oozora

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

Vassilenas

O Tzitzikas Ki O Mermigas

Vrassida 13, Tel: 210.721.0501 Exquisite Greek specialties

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

Byzantino

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

Paul

Levidou 4, Tel: 210.808.4288 French boulangerie

Rakkan

Cookoovaya

CTC

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

Leilimlei

Baltinon 2 , Tel: 211.700.9383

Milos

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

Vezene

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

Vlassis

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

DRINK Galaxy Bar

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

Kerameikos

EAT Aleria

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

Athiri

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

DRINK CV Bar

Konstantinoupoleos 108 Tel: 210.345.1744

Nixon

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

EAT 21 Restaurant

Kolokotroni 21, Tel: 210.623.352, Highly recommended.

Refined al-fresco dining with excellent service

Artisanal

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

Berdema

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

Blue Pine

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

Buba

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

Cash

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

Funky Gourmet

Common Secret

Polly Maggoo

Dos Hermanos

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

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

Seychelles

Keramikou 49, Tel: 211.183.4789

Tamarind

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

56 | insider athens

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

Vassilenas

Kifissia

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

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

Elaias Gi

Dexamenis & Olimpionikon 4, Tel: 210.620.0005 The authenticity of Greek cuisine with stunning views of the city

Gefsis Me Onomasia Proelefsis Kifissias 317, Tel: 210.800.1402 Divine food from all over the world

Golden Phoenix

Harilaou Trikoupi & Gortinias Tel: 210.801.3588, Chinese classic popular for the brunch buffet

Gourounakia Kifissias

Kifissias 289, Tel: 210.801.1093 Delicious salads, appetizers, souvlakia & grilled platters

Il Salumaio di Atene

Panagitsas 3, Tel: 210.623.3934 Specially-prepared Italian meals

Jaipur Palace

Kifissias 222, Tel: 210.808.8318 Indian cuisine and fine wines

Kastelorizo

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

Kokkino Psaraki

Evagelistrias 36, Tel: 210.620.1572 Seafood taverna

Kool Life

Royal Thai

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

Semiramis Restaurant

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

Suba

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

Telemachos Barbeque Club

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

The Dalliance House

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

The Wilbury  

Kifisias 238, Tel: 210.808.9454

Tomoe

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

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

DRINK

La Gabinoteca

Patr. Maximou 1 Tel: 210.623.3550

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

Margherita

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

Nargile

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

Nolita

Semiramis Hotel Harilaou. Trikoupi 48, Tel: 210.623.1181

Nui

Gortinias 11, Tel: 210.801.3553 Gourmet mutli-Asian restaurant

ESCOBA Dyo 48

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

Mento CafĂŠ

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

Vinifera

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

Food & Wine Cellier

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

Bakeries & Patisseries Cake

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

Fresh

Kriezotou 12, Tel: 210.364.2948 Desserts and cakes

Restaurants Altamira

Tsakalof 36A, Tel: 210.361.4695 Flavours of multiethnic cuisine

Cafe Boheme

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

Capanna

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

Cinco

Skoufa 52, Tel: 210.364.3603 Great cocktails and specialty tapas

Codice Blu

Kalamaki Kolonaki

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

Kiku

L’Abreuvoir

Showroom

Xenokratous 51, Tel: 210.722.9106 Fine French cuisine

La Pierrade

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

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

Simul

La Suite Lounge

Lachitos 5, Tel: 210.723.7575 Original French cuisine

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

Malconi’s

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

Mayor

Filikis Eterias, Sq 19 Tel: 210.364.8156

Nice n Easy

Ipsilantou 63, Tel: 210.722.4737

Spiros & Vasilis

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

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

Freud Oriental

Ratka

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

Papadakis

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

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

Authentic Japanese experience

TGI Friday’s

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

Skoufaki

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

T5

Tsakalof 5, Tel: 210.362.1776

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

Tuttitalia

Ten

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

Cafés

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

Da Capo

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

Yoko Sushi & Bento

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

Peros

Yoleni’s

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

Zurbaran,

Tea

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

To Tsai

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

DRINK Bars, Clubs & Lounges

EAT

56

Agani

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

City

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

London str 72

ToRestaurant IT Tsai

Rosebud

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

Tutti a Tavola

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

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

Suba Restaurant

Nikkei

Orizontes Lycavyttou

Mai Tai

Loukianou 36, Tel: 213.026.3656 Fashionable gastro pub

Omirou 60 & Skoufa, Tel.: 210.361.7201 Gourmet cafe-restaurant with organic products and jazz music Leventi 3, Tel: 210.723.9366 Peruvian aromas and flavours in Kolonaki!

To Tsai

Stinking Bishops

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

Filippou

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

Scala Vinoteca

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

Ouzadiko

IT restaurant

Aristipou 34, Tel: 210.723.4102 Authentic Italian trattoria

Dimokritou 12, Tel: 210.364.7033 Fresh, beautifully presented sushi

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

Xenokratous 21 Tel: 210.729.9595 Creative fusion cuisine

Sale e Pepe

Maroussi

Kolonaki

EAT

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

Kifissias 22, Tel: 210.277.7065 Delectable, inspired Greek cuisine

Altamira

Perikleous 28, Tel: 210.612.8841 Multiethnic cuisine in funky environment

Aneton

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

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Mauzac

Alamanas 1, Tel: 210.619.9902 Clean lines and a beautiful garden make this café, bar, restaurant a must

Pausa

Ag. Konstantinou 46 & Ifestou 3 Tel: 210.617.9290 Italian cuisine accompanied by a selection of Greek & Italian wines

Prytaneion

Kifissias Ave, Tel: 210.683.8083 Generous portions of Mediterranean fare

Wagamama

Kifissias 37A, Tel: 210.683.6844 Fresh, nutritious Asian fusion food in a sleek yet simple setting

Whispers of wine

Ag. Konstantinou 48, Tel: 210.617.9051, Gourmet food with rich wine list and vintage decor

Mavili Sq

EAT 48 Urban Garden

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

Fuga

Vas.Sofias & Kokkali 1, Tel: 210.724.2979 Italian inspired menu by chef Andrea Berton at the Athens Concert Hall

Ginger

Dorileou 10-12, Tel: 210.645.1169 Original dishes and innovative combinations in an elegant atmosphere

St’Astra

Alexadras 10, Tel: 210.889.4500 For an unforgettable roof-top dining experience

To Parko Eleftherias

Next to Megaron Mousikis, Tel: 210.722.3784 Classic recipes and nice atmopshere in a lush green park

DRINK Balthazar

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

Baraonda

Tsoha 43, Tel: 210.644.4308 Gourmet cuisine and funky beats

Briki

Dorileou 6, Tel: 210.654.2380 Trendy hole-in-the-wall hangout

EAT

Souvlaki Bar

Adrianou 7 & Thisiou 15, Tel: 210.515.0550

Stou Meïdani

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

Thanassis

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

To Kouti

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

DRINK 360 Cocktail Bar

Ifestou 2, Tel: 210.321.0006

A for Athens

Bairaktaris

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

Café Avissinia

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

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

Couleur Locale

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

Loukoumi Bar

Cosa Nostra

Six Dogs

Grexico Mexican Street

Spollati

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

Food

Fokionos 4, Tel: 210.331.5540 Tantalising Mexican flavours

Melilotos

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

Savvas

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

Sigalas-Bairaktaris

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

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

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

Taf

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

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

Omonia

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

EAT Athinaikon

Themistokleous 2, Tel: 210.383.8485 A traditional Greek ouzeri

58 | insider athens

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

Mama Tierra

Akadimias 84, Tel: 211.411.4420

Olive Garden

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

Pallas Athena

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

Trata

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

CAFes Cosa Nostra

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

EAT Fatsio

Efroniou 5, Tel: 210.721.7421 Greek food & political gossip

Mavro Provato

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

Spondi

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

Tortuga

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

Trapezaria

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

Trata o Stelios

Mokka

Tailor Made

Fuga

Ideal Restaurant

Pangrati

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

Monastiraki

Dal Professore

Duck Soup

Panepistimiou 39 Tel: 210.323.3916

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

Vespa Rosa

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

DRINK LIVE BARS Abaroriza

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

Half Note Jazz Club

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

Petralona

EAT Andaman

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

Blue Bamboo

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

Thio Tragi

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

DRINK Kurios Hou

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

Piraeus

EAT 1920

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

Captain John’s

Ak. Koumoundourou 16A, Tel: 210.417.7589 Traditional seafood

Dourambeis

Ak. Protopsalti 29, Tel: 210.412.2092 Classic fish taverna

Jimmy and The Fish

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

Hams and Clams

Akti Themistokleous 36, Tel: 210.418.6683

Keg ‘n’ Crew

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

Kollias

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

Papaioannou

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

Rouan Thai

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

Tony Bonano

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

Electra

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

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

Antaios

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

Barabicu

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

La Pantera Negra

25 Martiou 28, Tel: 210.674.3874

Vosporos

Scholarheio

Bluefield Burger

Zefyros

Ydria

The Burger Joint

Zorbas

DRINK

China’s Fantasy

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

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

DRINK Istioploikos

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

Katafigio

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

Mary Pickford

Varoulko Seaside, Akti Koumoundourou 52, Tel: 210.412.3308

EAT 2 Mazi

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

7 Food Sins

Filomousou Eterias Sq. 1 Tel: 210.701.1108

Brettos

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

Daphne’s Restaurant 7 Food Sins

Varoulko

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

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

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

Bars, Clubs & Lounges

Kambouroglou 32, Tel: 210.674.9889 Chinese cuisine

Noël

Dioskouroi

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

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

Dourampeis Oyster

The Clumsies

Andrianiou 37, Tel: 210.671.0100 Delectable seafood and frech oysters

Throubi

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

Toy Cafe

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

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

Fish Co. Platters

Gaspar Food and Mood

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

Hachiko Sushi

Warehouse CO2

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

Iperidou 1, Tel: 210.324.7048

EAT

Psychico

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

Plaka

Superfly

310 Street

Leof. Kifisias 304,Tel: 211.411.2211

Krithamos

La Piazzetta

28is Oktovriou 4, Tel: 210.675.3732

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

Ombra

Albion

Piperia

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

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

insider athens | 59

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Polly Maggoo

DRINK

P.s.Pecora

Bars, Clubs & Lounges

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

Rena tis Ftelias

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

Pasaji

Plaza Lounges

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

Booze Cooperativa

Geona’s

Cinque Wine & Deli

Sushimou

GB Roof Garden

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

Indian Kitchen

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

Black Duck

Agatharhou 15,Tel: 215.501.7853

Cantina Social

Kudu

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

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

Dude

Diporto

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

Falafellas

Aiolou 51,Tel: 210.323.9809 Gourmet ethnic street food

Gostijo

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

Epiros Tavern

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

Kouzina Cine-Psirri

EAT

Syntagma

Psyrri

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

EAT

Amandine Bagels & Gourmandises

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

Avocado

Apollonos 6, Tel: 210.323.7720

Ioannis

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

Kiki’s de Grece

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

Koi

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

Los Loros

Black Duck Multiplarte

Makalo

Christou Lada, 9 Tel: 210.323.4760

By The Glass

Souri 2, Tel: 210.323.2560 Charming wine bar with character

City Bistro

Museum of Greek Gastronomy

Dosirak

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

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

Nikis 30, Tel: 210.323.7878 Vegetarian restaurant

Sari 40, Tel: 210.321.5534 Mediterranean fare & eclectic music

Leokoriou 7, Tel: 210.331.2950 Mediterranean/French cuisine

Panepistiomiou 10, Tel: 210.722.4824 A true French patisserie

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

Ochre & Brown

Paul

Beer Time

DRINK Davaki 1 & 28is Oktovriou, Tel: 210.675.5571

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

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

Feedέλ Urban Gastronomy

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

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

New Taste

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

Nolan

Voulis 31-33, Tel:210.324.3545

Noodle Bar

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

O Tzitzikas ki o Mermigas

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

The concierge of the Grande Bretagne Hotel recommends EAT

New Mama Fuga, Athens Concert Hall Gardens Classic Varoulko Seaside Akti Koumoundourou 52, Piraeus Alternative Cafe Avissinia Kynetou 7, Monastiraki

60 | insider athens

DRINK

New Che Cocina y Barra Sudamericana Karaiskou 151, Piraeus Classic Brettos Bar Kydathineon 41, Plaka Alternative TAF / the Art Foundation Normanou 5, Monastiraki

DO

New Maria Callas, The myth lives on Theocharakis Foundation Classic Ghika – Craxton – Leigh Fermor, Charmed lives in Greece - Benaki Museum Alternative ‘Park your Cinema’ - Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (SNFCC)

Taqueria Maya

The Parliament

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

Tudor Hall Restaurant & Lounge

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

Wild in the City

Stoa Bolani, Voulis 7,Tel: 210.331.5776

DRINK Bars, Clubs & Lounges 42 Bar

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

Kolokotroni 9

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

Ampariza

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

Alexander’s

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

DRINK

Baba Au Rum

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

Bars, Clubs & Lounges Cava Faidon

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

Barreldier

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

Cava Vegera

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

Barley Cargo

NJV Athens Plaza, Syntagma Square, Tel: 210.335.2400, Magnificent cocktails and live jazz in an intimate atmosphere

Heteroclito

Fokionos 2, Tel: 210.323.9406 A true wine destination with focus on Greek vineyards

Syngrou

Explorer’s Lounge

EAT Ai Nikolas

Syngrou Ave. 156, Tel: 210.923.2918 Original seafood dishes, fresh ingredients and simple elegant interior

Avenue

Metropolitan Hotel, Syngrou Ave 385, Tel: 210.947.100, French bistrot inspired by Michel Roux

Kalua

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

Café Zoe

Low Profile

Voulis 7, Tel: 213.035.2144 Impressive selection of single malts

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

Madras House of Tea

Hytra

Mama Roux

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

Moriarty,

Christou Lada 1, Tel: 213.040.6763

Oinoscent

Voulis 45-47, Tel: 210.322.9374, Trendy winebar

The Clumsies

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

The Gin Joint

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

The Seven Jokers

Voulis 7, Tel: 210.321.9225

The Trap

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

CAFES Kaya

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

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

Kollias

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

Première

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

EAT

Thissio

Voulis 7, Tel: 210.324.2777

Indian Masala

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

Kirki

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

Kuzina

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

The James Joyce

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

DRINK The Sowl

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

Underdog

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

EAT Coconuts

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

Drakoulis Meat Open Project

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

Dulcis in Fundo

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

Koi

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

Naiades

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

Ballaro Italian Restaurant & Deli

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

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

EAT

Vouliagmeni

Drunk Sinatra

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

Nelly’s Gastro Pub

Avenue

Voula

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

Ithaki

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

Lutetia Bistro

Sunday

brunch

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

Malabar

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

Matsuhisa Athens

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

Moorings

Marina Vouliagmeni, Tel: 210.967.0659

Mythos of the Sea

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

Rafale

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

Sardelaki

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

Waffle House

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

DRINK En Plo

Posidonos 4, Tel: 210.967.1770 Cocktails overlooking Vouliagmeni Bay

Island

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

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Bookstores

Compendium

Alikarnassou 8, Athens Tel: 210.383.2139, 210.322.1248

Ιanos

Stadiou 24, Athens Tel: 210.321.7917, 231.022.1113

Lea Books

Sina 60, Kolonaki Tel: 211.012.0547

Lexikopoleio

Stasinou 13, Tel: 210.723.1201

Ouranio Toxo

Perikleous 41,Ag.Paraskevi Tel: 211.184.6771

Polyglot

Akadimias 84, Tel: 210.330.0455

Public

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

Tel: 210.338.7150

WHSmith Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos.

Tel: 210.353.1080

Deli

Arapian

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

Bahar

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

Cava Anthidis

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

Kostarelos

Cellier

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

Kostarelos

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

Kylix

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

Marks & Spencer Food

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

Miran

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

Provence

Posidonos 80, Tel: 210.898.1435 Gourmet French delicatessen

Salamat

Korinthias 24, Athens Tel: 210.779.6766

Sorpresa Italiana

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

Stefanidis Finest Foods

Dimitrios Sq 13, Tel: 210.808.2191 Excellent European delicatessen

Varsos

Kassaveti 5, Kifissia Tel: 210.801.2472 Milk products & patisserie

Jewellery

Solonos 77, Kolonaki Tel: 210.362.9703

Wine Garage

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

Athens Metro Mall

Dept Stores

Le livre ouvert

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

Attica

Apriati

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

Elena Votsi

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

Fanourakis

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

Folli Follie

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

Omega

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

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

Van Cleef & Arpels

Golden Hall

Bulgari

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

McArthurGlen

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

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

Cartier

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

Petit Bateau

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

The Mall Athens

Attica

62 | insider athens

Andrea Papandreou 35 Tel: 210.630.0000 Shops, cinemas and food

Chopard

GB Spa

Ilias Lalaounis

Panepistimiou 6, Tel: 210.361.1371 Fabulous gold designs by famous Greek jeweller

Kessaris

Panepistimiou 7, Tel: 210.323.2919 Wide range of luxury brand timepieces

Marathianakis

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

Pentheroudakis

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

Zolotas

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

Anamnesia

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

Acropolis Museum Shop

15 Dionysiou Areopagitou, Tel: 210.900.0911

Benaki Museum Shop

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

Forget me not

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

Greece is for Lovers

Valtetsiou 50 - 52, Kolonaki Tel: 210.924.5064 www.greeceisforlovers.com Tongue-in-cheek souvenirs for the discerning traveller

It's all, oh so souvenir to me!

Concierge Athens, Ay.Theklas 8, Psirri, Tel: 213.036.9266 More than 50 Greek designers' unique, new imaginative and unexpected ideas that re-define the souvenir www.ohsosouvenir.com

Kori

Mitropoleos 13, Monastiraki Tel: 210.323.3534 Traditional & contemporary jewellery

Museum of Cycladic Art Shop Neophytou Douka 4, Kolonaki Tel: 210.722.8321-3

Ananea Spa

Life Gallery Hotel 103 Thisseos Ave., Ekali, Tel: 211.106.7400

GB Spa at Hotel Grande Bretagne Vasileos Georgiou 1, Syntagma Sq, Tel: 210.333.0799

Hiltonia Spa

Vas.Sofias 46, Tel: 210.728.1000

I-Spa

InterContinental Athenaeum Athens Syngrou Avenue 89-93, Tel: 210.920.6000

Olive Tree Spa

Hatzigianni Mexi 4, Hilton Tel: 210 724.4425

Orloff Spa Astir Beach Apollonos 40, Vouliagmeni Tel: 210.896.0028

Vintage

Stadiou 2 & Vas. Georgiou Tel: 210.325.0555 Legendary time pieces and jewellery.

Souvenirs

Chopard

Spas

Zolotas

Amerikaniki Agora

Athinas 30, Monastiraki 1st-2nd Floor Tel: 210 3217876

Bohbo

Ippokratous 40 & Didotou, Exarhia Tel: 210.338.9202

Gouadeloupi

Protogenous 12, Psyrri, Tel: 697.852.3933

Like Yesterday’s

Protogenous 16, Monastiraki Tel: 216.700.4810 Vintage clothes mainly from the United States

Mofu

Sarri 28, Psyrri, Tel: 210.331.1922 Vintage and contemporary style home décor and furniture

Paliosintheies

Protogenous 8, Psyrri, Tel: 210.656.0574 Vintage home décor and furniture

Preloved

Ipitou 5, Syntagma Second-hand clothing collected from the cities of Paris and Berlin

Retrosexual Vintage Shop

Aghias Eirinis 3, Monastiraki Tel: 210.545.1553 Great collection of merchandise ranging from the ‘20s to the ‘90s.

Sofita

Iraklidon 35, Thissio Tel: 210.346.9904

Yesterday's Bread

Anamnesia

Retrosexual

Kallidromiou 87-89, Tel: 210.881.1233 Imported second-hand clothes; individuality guaranteed

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Badminton Theatre Goudi, Athens, Tel: 211.101.0020 Gialino Music Theatre Sygrou 143, N. Smyrni, Athens Tel: 210.9316.101-4 Pallas Theatre Voukourestiou 5, Athens, Tel: 210.321.3100

Acropolis is open daily and entrance, includes archaeological sites. Tel: 210.321.0219 Ancient Agora was the heart of ancient Athens - the focus of political, commercial, administrative and social life for centuries.

Byzantine Churches many churches dating from the 11th and 12th centuries are found around the city. Noteworthy examples include: Agios Eleftherios, next to the cathedral on Mitropoleos Street; Kapnikarea, halfway down Ermou Street from Syntagma; Agi Apostoli, Agora area south of Stoa of Attalos; and Agia Triada (Russian Orthodox church) on Filellinon Street.

Churches are open to the public on Sundays and holidays, also usually for daily prayers 7am-1pm and 4-6:30pm.

Dress soberly when visiting.

Technopolis (Gazi) a 19th century gas factory turned major cultural centre for performing arts and installation works.

Pireos 100 & Ermou, Gazi.

Tel: 210.346.1589.

Hadrian’s Arch a Roman arch that markedthe boundary of ancient Athens and the new city. Located at the corner of

Hellenic Cosmos Foundation of the Hellenic world Pireos 254, Tavros. Tel: 212.254.0000. hellenic-cosmos.gr Frissiras Vlassis Museum of Contemporary European Art Monis Asteriou 3-7, Plaka, Tel: 210.323.4678 frissirasmuseum.com Goulandris Foundation Museum of Cycladic Art Neofytou Douka 4, Athens .

Tel: 210.722.8321, cycladic.gr Herakleidon Herakleidon 16, Thissio, Tel: 210.346.1981 Apostolou Pavlou 37, Thissio Tel: 211.012.6486, herakleidon-art.gr Ilias Lalaounis Jewellery Museum Karyatidon & Kallisperi 12, Makrygianni, Acropolis. Tel: 210.922.7260, lalaounis.com Jewish Museum Nikis 39, Plaka.

Tel: 210.322.5582. jewishmuseum.gr Kerameikos Museum Ermou 148, Monastiraki, Tel: 210.346.3552.

National Archaeological Museum Patission 44, Athens, Tel: 210.821.7724 National Gallery and Alexandros Soutsos Museum Vas. Konstantinou 50, Athens.

Tel: 210.723.5857, 210.723.5937 Numismatic Museum Panepistimiou 12, Athens.

Tel: 210.363.5953, nma.gr The Acropolis Museum Dionysiou Areopagitou Street, Acropolis.

Tel: 210.924.1043, theacropolismuseum.gr The National Art Gallery and Alexander Soutzos Museum Michalakopoulou 1 - Vas. Constantinou 1, Athens, Tel: 210.723.5857

Agora Museum Located in the Stoa of Attalos, Athens. Tel: 210.321.0185.

Atelier Spyros Vassiliou Webster 5A, Athens.

Tel: 210.923.1502, spyrosvassiliou.org Athens University History Museum Tholou 5, Plaka, Tel: 210.368.9502, history-museum.uoa.gr Benaki Museum Koumbari 1 & Vas. Sofias Avenue, Athens Tel: 210.367.1000, benaki.gr Benaki Museum of Islamic Arts Dipylou 12, Kerameikos.

Tel: 210.325.1311, benaki.gr Benaki Museum, Pireos Pireos 138 & Andronikou, Gazi Tel: 210.345.3111, benaki.gr Byzantine Museum Vas. Sofias 22, Kolonaki, Tel: 210.721.1027

Allou Fun Park Kifissou & Petrou Ralli, Ag. Ioannis Rentis, Tel: 210.425.6999, allou.gr Children’s Museum Kydathinaeon 14, Plaka, Tel: 210.331.2995.

Goulandris Museum of Natural History Levidou 13, Kifissia.

Tel: 210.801.5870, gnhm.gr Greek Folk Art Museum Daily Karaghiozis puppet shows!

Kydathinaeon 17, Plaka, Tel: 210.322.9031 Museum of Children’s Art Kodrou 9, Plaka, Tel: 210.331.2621 childrensartmuseum.gr Summit The Wall Sport Climbing Center Ag. Athanasiou 12, Pallini, Tel: 210.603.0093, summit.gr Westin Kids Club Apollonos 40, Vouliagmeni, Tel: 210.890.2000 www.westinathens.com/en/westin_kids_club/

Just for kids

Sites Theatres

Galleries

A. Antonopoulou Art Aristofanous 20, Psyrri Tel: 210.321.4994 Artzone 42 42 Vas. Konstantinou, Athens, Tel: 210 725 9549 Astrolavos Dexameni Xanthippou 11, Kolonaki Tel: 210.729.4342 Astrolavos ArtLife Irodotou 11, Kolonaki Tel: 210.722.1200 Athens Art Gallery Glykonos 4, Dexameni Sq., Athens, Tel: 210 721 3938 Bernier/Eliades Gallery Eptachalkou 11, Thissio, Tel: 210.341.3935 (The) Breeder Gallery Iasonas 45, Metaxurgeio, Tel: 210.331.7527 Ekfrasi Gallery Valaoritou 9a, Tel: 210.360.7598 Eleni Marneri Galerie Lebessi 5-7& Porinou 16, Acropolis Tel: 210.8619.488 EMST National Museum of Contemporary Art Kallirrois Av. & Amvr. Frantzi street Athens, Tel: 210.924.2111- 3 Gagosian Gallery Merlin 3, Athens, Tel: 210.364.0215 K-Art Gallery Sina 54, Athens, Tel: 211.401.3877 Kalfayan Gallery Haritos 11, Kolonaki, Tel: 210.721.7679 Kapopoulos Fine Arts Varis - Koropiou Av. 94, Koropi Kourd Gallery Kassiani 2-4, Athens, Tel: 210.642.6573 Skoufa Gallery Skoufa 4, Kolonaki, Tel: 210.360.3541 Stavros Mihaliaras Art 260 Kifissias & Diligianni, Kifissia Tel: 210.623.0928 Thanassis Frisssiras Gallery Kriezotou 7, Athens, Tel: 210.364.0288 The Eynard Mansion Aghiou Konstantinou 20 & Menandrou, Athens, Tel: 210.322.1335 Titanium Yiayiannos Vas. Konstantinou 44, Pangrati, Tel: 210.729.7644 Xippas Gallery Sofokleous 53D, Athens, Tel: 210.331.9333 Zoumboulakis Gallery Kolonaki Square 20, Kolonaki Tel: 210.360.8278, Kriezotou 6, Syntagma, Tel: 210.363.4454

Vas. Olgas and Amalias Avenues.

Lykavittos Hill is the highest point in Athens. Take the teleferique from the top of Ploutarchou St. Odeon of Herod Atticus built in 161 AD, this is where the Athens Festival takes place. Accessible for €1.50 and open daily from 8:30am.

Panathenian Stadium Kalimarmaro”was the site of the first modern Olympics in 1896. Located at Vassileos Konstantinou and Agras, across from the National Garden. Pnyx Hill here, for the first time in history, every citizen could vote, giving Pnyx the name the “birthplace of democracy”. Close by is the beautiful Old Observatory. Presidential Palace formerly the Royal Palace, this building is used by the President of Greece to host dignitaries. Irodou Attikou Street. Stoa of Attalos shopping arcade built in the 2nd century BC and totally reconstructed in the 1950s. Tues-Sun 8:30am-3pm.

Admission to the Agora and museum €3.50. Adrianou 24. Tel: 210.321.0185 Syntagma(Constitution Square) is the heart of the city and the best spot for new visitors to orient themselves. The Evzones, dressed in traditional uniforms, guard the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in front of the Parliament. The changing-of-the-guard ceremony takes place every hour. Temple of Olympian Zeus once the largest temple in ancient Greece, its ruins lie just behind Hadrian’s Arch. Mon-Sun 8am-7:30pm. €2.00. Vas. Olgas and Amalias Avenues, Tel: 210.922.6330. Theatre of Dionysus built in the 5th century BC is where the plays of Aristophanes, Euripides, Aeschylus and Sophocles were first performed. Tower of Winds the octagonal tower, representing the eight directions of the wind, was built in the 1st century BC by the Syrian astronomer Andronicus.

Mon-Sun 8am-7pm. Just east of the Ancient Agora. Tel: 210.324.5220.

Museums

ASSOCIATION OF GUIDES Tel: 210.322.9705

Athinais Cultural Centre formerly a silk factory, this space has been converted into a large cultural centre. astorias 34-36, Votanikos. Tel: 210.348.0000.

B&M Theocharakis Foundation for the Fine Arts & Music Vas. Sofias 9 & Merlin 1, Athens Tel: 210.361.1206 Ileana Tounta Contemporary Art Centre 48 Armatolon-Klephton st. Athens, Tel: 210.643.9466 Megaron Mousikis (The Athens Concert Hall) live concerts, operas and other performances. Vas. Sofias Ave. & Kokkali. Tel: 210.728.2333 Michael Cacoyannis Foundation Piraeus 206, Tavros, Tel: 210.341.8550 Onassis Cultural Centre Syngrou 107-109, Athens, Tel: 213.017.8000 Stavros Niarchos Foundation Vasilissis Sofias Ave. 86A The Art Foundation Normanou 5, Athens, Tel: 210.323.8757

Cultural venues

ORGANISED TOURS

ARION RESORT & SPA

ATHENS HILTON

COCO-MAT HOTEL NAFSIKA

DIVANI PALACE ACROPOLIS

The legendary beauty resort is part of Starwood Hotels and Resorts. Breathtaking views of the Saronic Gulf, elegant and sophisticated décor in all 123 rooms and suites, private swimming pools and beaches, spa and gourmet restaurants.

Apollonos 40, Vouliagmeni.

Tel: 210.890.2000

506 renovated rooms, two pools, convention facilities, business center, four restaurants, two bars and spa. The rooftop Galaxy Bar and Restaurant has gorgeous city views.

Vas. Sofias 46, Ilisia Tel: 210.728.1000

Located in Kifissia, the hotel offers an unforgettable experience thanks to COCOMAT‘s unique sleep systems in its 22 guest rooms, power breakfast, bike rids and herb garden.

Pellis 6, Kifissia. Tel: 210.801.8027

Located at the base of the Acropolis and close to Plaka. Pool with bar, roof garden restaurant with Acropolis view.

Parthenonos 19-25 Makrigianni, Acropolis.

Tel: 210.928.0100

ATHENAEUM INTERCONTINENTAL ATHENS

COCO-MAT HOTEL

Crowne plaza

GRANDE BRETAGNE

543 rooms with renovated Deluxe rooms and suites. Dedicated business centre facilities and 3.500 m2 of extensive & flexible meeting space. New I-Spa and renovated gym. Award winning restaurants.

Syngrou 89-93, Neos Kosmos.

Tel: 210.920.6000

COCO-MAT Hotel Athens is an understated luxury, design hotel that sits in the heart of Kolonaki and offers relaxing sleep, delicious homemade breakfast and selected services for its esteemed guests. 36 Patriarchou Ioakeim str.

Tel: 210.723.0000

Newly renovated, at a very convenient location attracts both business and leisure travellers. Amenities include restaurant, bar, rooftop swimming pool, conference and business facilities, garage parking.

Michalakopoulou 50, Athens.

Tel: 210.727.8000

This city landmark is part of Starwood Hotels and Resorts. All 265 rooms and 56 suites are decorated with original artwork and antiques.

Reception areas, ballrooms, roof garden with Acropolis view. Luxury spa, indoor and outdoor pools.

Syntagma Sq. Tel: 210.333.0000

ATHENIAN CALLIRHOE HOTEL

CIVITEL ATTIK

DIVANI APOLLON PALACE & SPA

Holiday Inn Attica Avenue

66 state-of the-art rooms, 15 executive rooms and 3 suites. The acclaimed Etrusco Restaurant serves top quality Mediterranean cuisine.

Kallirois 32 & Petmeza, Neos Kosmos.

Tel: 210.921.5353

A tranquil first-class business, sports and family hotel set in the leafy green suburb of Maroussi, with a swimming pool, conference facilities and spacious restaurant with terrace.

Eptalofou 13 – 15, Maroussi. Τel: 210.610.1000

Located seaside with a magnificent view of the Saronic Gulf. All rooms with balconies and sea views. Indoor and outdoor pools, boutiques, beauty parlor, business centre and spa.

Ag. Nikolaou 10 & Iliou, Kavouri Vouliagmeni. Tel: 210.891.1100

New five-star property on Attica Avenue linking Athens with the international airport.

State-of-the art conference facilities, restaurant, two bars, pool and fitness center.

40.2 km Attica Road, between exits 17 & 18, Spata. Tel: 210.668.9000

ATHENS ELECTRA PALACE HOTEL

CIVITEL OLYMPIC

DIVANI CARAVEL

Holiday Suites

Located in historic Plaka beneath the Acropolis. Facilities include bar, restaurant, spa area with indoor swimming pool, business centre, garden and underground parking.

N. Nikodimou 18-20, Plaka.

Tel: 210.337.0000

Right across the Olympic Stadium, its Superior Rooms and Junior Suites are fitted with modern amenities, from free minibar to free wifi internet access and interactive tv.

Kifissias 2A & Pantanassis, Maroussi.

Tel: 210.680.1900

Situated close to major tourist attractions with, rooftop restaurant and swimming pool.

Vas. Alexandrou 2, Kesariani.

Tel: 210.720.7000

Elegant, all-suite hotel offering high standard accommodation. Each suite provides guests with a separate living room and kitchenette.

Arnis 4, Ilissia.

Tel: 210.727.8000

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KEFALARI SUITES

METROPOLITAN

RADISSON BLU

THEOXENIA PALACE HOTEL

Turn-of-the-century hotel in Kifissia, part of YES! Hotels.Themed suites with modern facilities.

Pentelis 1, Kifissia.

Tel: 210.623.3333

Overlooking the Acropolis and the Saronic Gulf, the Metropolitan Hotel combines warm hospitality and urban luxury.

Syngrou Ave 385, Paleo Faliro Tel: 210.947.1000, metrpolitan@chandris.gr

Set across from the lush groves of Pedion tou Areos park, this contemporary hotel is a 4-minute walk from Victoria metro station and 2.9 km from the Acropolis.

Alexandras Avenue 10, Athens Tel: 210.889.4500

In an elegant neoclassical building, this hotel has a restaurant, gym, sauna and outdoor pool. Business centre, internet & conference facilities.

Filadelfeos 2, Kifissia.

Tel: 210.623.3622

KING GEORGE

NEW

SEMIRAMIS

THE MARGI

Situated in the heart of the city, it’s 102 guest rooms and suites are elegantly furnished and natural wood floors. Meeting & Conference spaces, restaurants with panoramic views.

Vas. Georgiou A’ 3. Syntagma Sq. Tel: 210.322.2210

Designed by the Campana brothers, NEW, the latest venture of YES! Hotels has 79 luxury rooms, including 18 Studios and 6 Junior Suites. NEW Taste, is the Hotel’s innovative restaurant concept.

Filellinon 16, Syntagma.

Tel: 210.3273000

YES! Hotel designed by Karim Rashid. 51 luxury rooms, 4 suites and 6 poolside bungalows. Ultra-trendy bar-restaurant.

Harilaou Trikoupi 48, Kefalari-Kifissia.

Tel: 210.628.4400

Boutique hotel with 90 spacious rooms and suites and great views to the sea and pine forests. Baku Restaurant offers a unique dining experience while Malabar and the Lobby lounge are perfect for a glass of champagne.

Close to the lake, beach and tennis courts.

Litous 11, Vouliagmeni. Tel: 210.892.9000

LIFE GALLERY

NJV athens plaza

SOFITEL ATHENS AIRPORT

THE WESTIN ATHENS

Modern architecture finds its expression in a minimalist designed building with discreet swimming pools, Zen gardens and ethnic elements. The hotel offers 29 spacious, luxury rooms, including 3 art studios and 2 suites and a spa and fitness centre.

Thiseos Avenue 103, Ekali. Tel: 211.106.7400

Boutique-style hotel with 182 rooms including 23 suites with breathtaking views of the Acropolis, ideally located in the heart of the business and shopping district within walking distance of Plaka. 2, Vas.Georgiou A’ St, Syntagma Sq. Tel: 210 3352400

Airport hotel. Executive floor, business center and conference facilities. Two bars and two restaurants. Health club and covered swimming pool.

Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport, Spata. Tel: 210.354.4000

Part of the Astir Palace Complex with 162 guest rooms and suites and views of the Saronic Gulf. Sea view lounges, trendy bars, fusion and Mediterranean cuisine restaurants and private gazebos by an Olympic-sized pool.

Apollonos 40, Vouliagmeni. Tel: 210.890.2000

MELIÁ ATHENS

NOVOTEL

ST. GEORGE LYCABETTUS HOTEL

ATHENS WAS

Located in the heart of Athens with 136 luxury rooms, spacious dining areas, a modern health club and views of historic monuments.

Chalkokondili 14 & 28th Octovriou, Acropolis.

Tel: 210.332.0100

Located in the center of Athens. Two Bars/ Restaurants at outdoor Rooftop Pool & lobby area, play area, gym, free indoor parking, free Wi-Fi and panoramic view from the Roof Garden.

4-6 Michail Voda Street, Vathis Square.

Tel: 210.820.0700

Located in the upper part of Kolonaki, not far from the Lycabettus (Lykavittos) funicular railway. Excellent restaurant, Le Grand Balcon. Rooftop swimming pool.

Kleomenous 2, Dexamenis Square, Kolonaki.

Tel: 210.741.6000

Urban adventure, daring design, original architecture, energetic social hub and stylish comfort, AthensWas’ 21 rooms all feature verandas to take in a truly authentic Athenian experience.

Dionysiou Areopagitou 5, Tel:210.725.4871

66 | insider athens

TwentyOne

A member of YES! Hotels. Modern design and simple architectural charm. 16 ergonomically designed rooms and 5 loft suites.

“21” Bar Restaurant for indoor and outdoor dining.

Kolokotroni 21, Kifissia Tel: 210.623.3521

Herodion

A five minute walk to Plaka. 90 guest rooms, meeting facilities and a lovely atrium bar-coffee shop.

Rovertou Galli 4, Makrigianni.

Tel: 210.923.6832

A CATEGORY AVA HOTEL & SUITES

HOTEL ELECTRA

Luxurious apartments and suites in Plaka. Magnificent views of the Acropolis, Hadrian’s Arch and Zeus Temple. Short walk to Syntagma.

Lysikratous 9-11, Plaka.

Tel: 210.325.9000

Within walking distance from all archaeological sites, business and commercial districts. Includes bar, restaurant, lobby and meeting areas.

Ermou 5, Syntagma Sq. Tel: 210.337.8000

amarilia hotel

PERISCOPE HOTEL

An excellent choice for business and leisure travellers. 100 renovated rooms and suites with great sea views, meeting and banqueting facilities, outdoor swimming pool.

Ag. Nikolaou 13 Vouliagmeni.

Tel: 210.899.0391

17 rooms, 4 junior suites and a super-lux penthouse suite. Part of YES! Hotels.

Haritos 22, Kolonaki.

Tel: 210.729.7200

Fresh Hotel

Philippos

Situated in the heart of old Athens within walking distance of the Plaka. Enjoy the Orange Bar, rooftop restaurant and pool.

Sophocleous 26 & Klisthenous, Omonoia.

Tel: 210.524.8511

Recently refurbished, all 50 rooms are wellappointed and comfortable. Good value for money.

Mitseon 3, Acropolis.

Tel: 210.922.3611-4

COSTA NAVARINO

SANTORINI

The Westin Resort Costa Navarino

MYSTIQUE

Inspired by old Messinian mansions, its 445 deluxe rooms, suites, 123 with private infinity pools, offer access to an extensive common pool areas, and reflect Westin’s soothing aesthetic.

Navarino Dunes Costa Navarino, Pilos Messinia, Tel: 27230.95000

Mystique is an 18 villa hotel, designed by Frank Le Fevbre.

Mystique, Oia. Tel. 22860.71114

The Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort

The Tsitouras Collection Hotel

289 exquisitely appointed rooms and 32 suites with individual infinity pools.

Traditional Greek design with contemporary touches.

Navarino Dunes Costa Navarino, Pilos Messinia, Tel: 27230.96000

Art and hospitality are graciously combined in the unique backdrop of a dramatic landscape.

Firostefani, Santorini Tel: 22860.23747

evia

VEDEMA

THERMAE SYLLA wellness hotel

Voted one of the ten best spas in the world, it has 101 rooms, 7 Suites and 1 presidential suite with an incredible sea view. 2 restaurants offer traditional Mediterranean cuisine Posidonos 2, Edipsos, Evia. Tel: 22260.60100

Vedema has 45 rooms converted from a 100 year old neo-classical captain’s house and a private swiming pool for all the suites.

Vedema, Megalohori.

Tel: 22860.81796

PATMOS

SANTO MARIS Oia Luxury Suites and Spa

Patmos Aktis Suites & Spa

A 5-star luxury hotel situated only a few steps from Grikos beach. Considered possibly the best located hotel in Patmos.

Patmos, Grikos Bay. Tel: 22470.32800

Santo Maris offers exquisite comfort in its 42 suites, 2 sprawling villas, 4 swimming pools, spa and gourmet restaurant in one of the world’s best-loved destinations.

Oia, Santorini, Tel: 22866.00630

insider athens | 67

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OTE video conference service

7.30am-10pm. Patission 85.

Tel: 210.883.8578, 210.822.0399

Commercial Office spaces Regus

Tel: 210.727.9000

Global Business Services Tel: 210.876.4876 Kifissias Ave. 90, Maroussi

COURIER SERVICES ACS

Asklipiou 25, Kryoneri Tel: 210.819.0000

DHL Tel: 210.989.0000 Express City S. Trikoupi 71, Athens Tel: 210.821.9959

Geniki Taxydromiki

Kifissou 14, Renti, Tel: 210.485.1100

Speedex

Seneka 24, 15klm Athinon-Lamias, Kifissia Tel: 801.110.0011

UPS

Driving School Highway

Amfitheas and Ag. Triados 30, 175 64 P. Faliro, Tel: 210.988.8098, 699.772.2777

Vlachos Bros

25th Martiou 20, Peristeri; Xenofodos 17, Peristeri; Afroditis 39, Ilion Tel: 210.574.4895, 210.576.9190

Relocation Agencies Allied Pickfords

Mourouzi 7, Athens, Tel: 210.610.4494

Athens Relocation Centre Zakynthou 10, Glyfada Tel: 210.965.0697

Attica Movers

Syngrou Ave. 19, Neos Kosmos, Tel: 210 922 7221

Celebrity International Movers Kapodistriou Ave. 102, Nea Ionia Tel: 210 272 0106

Corporate Relocations Athens Ag. Saranta 32, Nea Erithrea Tel: 210.800.3510

Orphee Beinoglou

27th km Old National Road Athens-Korinth Location Elefsinia, Elefsina Tel: 210.946.6100

Octopus Relocation Services

Ygeias 7, Marina Zeas, Tel: 210.459.9530

4klm Peanias-Markopoulou Av., Koropi Tel: 210.998.4000

TRANSLATIONS / INTERPRETING

Driving Schools in English

Global Business Services Kifisias 90, Maroussi, Tel: 210.876.4876

Trochokinisi Driving School

IBS - International Business Services

28th Oktovriou 126, Ambelokipi, Thessaloniki Tel: 2310.729.092

Michalakopoulou 29, Kaissariani Tel: 210.724.5541

MISSED THESE GREAT ISSUES?

Travel Agencies Travel Plan

Christou Lada 3, Athens Tel: 210.333.300, www.travelplan.gr

Amphitrion

Kyprou 46 & Ploutarhou, Dafni Tel: 210.900.6000, www.amphitrionholidays.gr

TravelPlanet24

Karagiorgi Servias 4, Syntagma Tel: 211 107 9684, www.travelplanet24.com

Mid-east Travel

Vas Sofias 105-107, Ampelokipoi Tel: Tel: 211.211.8888, www.mideast.gr

French Institute

Embassies Cultural Institutes

Business services

AUDIOVISUAL

Tel: 210.721.3039

BULGARIA Stratigou Kallari 33A, P. Psychico. Tel: 210.674.8105

CANADA Eth. Antistaseos 48, Halandri Tel: 210.727.3400

CHILE

Rigilis 12, Athens, Tel: 210.729.2647

CHINA Krinon 2A, P. Psychico, Tel: 210.672.3282

CROATIA Tzavella 4, N. Psychico, Tel: 210.677.7033

CUBA Sofokleous 5, Filothei, Tel: 210.685.5550

CYPRUS Xenofontos 2A, Athens, Tel: 210.373.4800

Hellenic American Union

DENMARK Mourouzi 10, Athens,

Massalias 22, 10680 Athens, Tel: 210.368.0900

British Council

P. Psychico. Tel: 210.671.9701 Tel: 210.725.6440

EGYPT Vas. Sofias 3, Syntagma, Tel: 210.361.8612

Kolonaki Square 17 106 73 Athens Tel: 210.369.2333

ESTONIA Messoghion 2-4, Ampelokipoi,

Instituto Cervantes

Tel: 210.725.5860

Mitropoleos 23, 105 57 Athens, Tel: 210.363.4117

Goethe Institut

Omirou 14-16, 100 33 Athens, Tel: 210.366.1000

Onassis Cultural Centre

Syngrou Ave. 107-109, 117 45 Athens, Tel: 213.017.8000

Instituto Italiano di Cultura Patission (28 Oktovriou) 47 Tel: 210.369.2333, 210.524.2646

ALBANIA Vekiareli 7, Filothei, Vas. Constantinou 14, Athens Tel: 210.756.4191-2

ARGENTINA

Vas. Sophias 59, Athens Tel: 210.724.4158

ARMENIA

Tel: 210.747.5660

FINLAND Hatziyianni Mexi 5, Athens, FRANCE Vas. Sofias 7, Syntagma, Tel: 210.339.1000

FYROM Papadiamanti 4, P. Psychico.

Tel: 210.674.9585

GEORGIA Ag. Dimitriou 24,

P. Psychico. Tel: 210.674.2186

GERMANY Karaoli & Dimitriou 3, Athens, Tel: 210.728.5111

HUNGARY Karneadou 25, Kolonaki Tel: 210.725.6800

INDIA Kleanthous 3, Mets, Tel: 210.721.6481 INDONESIA Marathonodromon 99, P. Psychico, Tel: 210.674.2345

IRAN Stratigou Kallari 16, Patisia, Tel: 210.674.1436

IRAQ Mazaraki 4, Psychico, Tel: 210.677.8276

IRELAND Vas. Konstantinou 7, Mets, Tel: 210.723.2405

ISRAEL Marathonodromon 1,

K. Palaiologou 95, Athens, Tel: 210.683.1130, 210.683.1145

P. Psychico, Tel: 210.670.5500

AUSTRALIA

JAPAN Ethnikis Antistaseos 46, Halandri.

ITALY Sekeri 2, Kolonaki, Tel: 210.361.7260

Kifisias & Alexandras, Ampelokipoi, Tel: 210.870.4000

Tel: 210.670.9900

AUSTRIA Vas. Sofias Av. 4,

Tel: 210.674.4161

Athens, Tel: 210.725.7270

AZERBAIJAN

Skoufa 10, Athens, Tel: 210.363.2721

68 | insider athens

BRAZIL Vassilis Sofias 23, Athens

CZECH REPUBLIC G. Seferi 6,

ALGERIA

send us an e-mail at: subscriptions@insider-magazine.gr or give us a call at: 210.729.8634

Hatzikosta 3, Athens, Tel: 210.641.0788

Sina 31, 10680 Athens Tel: 210.339.8600

Tel: 210.687.6200

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BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

BANGLADESH

JORDAN Papadiamanti 21. P. Psychico.

KAZAKHSTAN Imittou 122, Papagou Tel: 210.654.7765

KOREA Messoghion 2-4, Athens.

Tel: 210.698.4080

Marathonodromon 119, Palaio Psychiko Tel: 210.672.0250

KUWAIT Marathonodromon 27,

BELGIUM

LEBANON 6, 25th Martiou, P. Psychico,

Sekeri 3, Kolonaki, Tel: 210.360.0314

P. Psychico, Tel: 210.674.3593 Tel: 210.675.5873

LITHUANIA Vas. Sophias 49, Kolonaki

TURKEY Vas. Georgiou B’ 8, Athens,

Goudi. Tel: 210.772.6000 & 1535

LATVIA Vas. Konstantinou 38, Athens

UKRAINE Stephanou Delta 4, Filothei, Tel:

Private Hospitals

LUXEMBOURG Vas. Sofias 23A & Neofi-

UAE Kifissias Av. 290 & N. Paritsi 2,

Advanced Medical Services, Symmetria Building

MALTA

UK

MEXICO Filikis Etaireias Sq. 14, Kolonaki,

USA

MOLDAVIA Georgiou Bacu 20, Filothei.

URUGUAY

MOROCCO Marathonodromon 5,

VATICAN

NETHERLANDS Vas Konstantinou 5-7,

VENEZUELA Marathonodromon 19,

NIGERIA Streit 17, Filothei Tel: 210.802.1188 NORWAY Hatziyianni Mexi 5, Athens

VIETNAM Yakinthon 50, Psychico,

tou Vamva 2, SyntagmaTel: 210.725.6400 V. Sofias 96, Athens, Tel: 210.778.5138 Tel: 210.729.4780

Tel: 210.699.0660

P. Psychico. Tel: 210.674.4210 Mets, Tel: 210.725.4900

Tel: 210.724.6173

PAKISTAN Loukianou 6, Evaggelismos, Tel: 210.729.0122

PALESTINE Giassemion 13,

P. Psychico. Tel.: 210.672.6061-3

PANAMA Praxitelous 192 & II Merarchias,

Piraeus, Tel: 210.428.6441

PERU

Semitelou 2, Athens, Tel: 210.779.2761

PHILIPPINES Antheon 26, P. Psychico.

Tel: 210.672.1837

POLAND Chrysanthemon 22, P. Psychico. Tel: 210.679.7700

PORTUGAL Vas. Sofias 23, Kolonaki Tel: 210.729.0096 / 210.723.6784

QATAR Perikleous 2 & Kifissias Av. 212, N. Psychico, Tel: 210.725.5031 ROMANIA Emm. Benaki 7,

P. Psychico. Tel: 210.672.8875

RUSSIA Nikiforos Lytra 28,

P. Psychico. Tel: 210.672.5235

SAUDI ARABIA Palaiologhou 2 & Agias

Annis, Halandri, Tel: 210.671.6911

SERBIA Vas. Sophias 106, Athens, Tel: 210.777.4344

SINGAPORE Aigialias 17, Paradissos Amaroussiou. Tel: 210.684.5072 SLOVAK REPUBLIC G. Seferi 4, P. Psychico. Tel: 210.677.1980

SLOVENIA Kifissias Av. 280 & Dimokra-

tias 1, N. Psychico, Tel: 210.672.0090-091

SOUTH AFRICA

Kifissias 60, Maroussi. Tel: 210.610.6645

SPAIN Dionysiou Areopagitou 21, Plaka, Tel: 210.921.3123

SWEDEN Vas. Konstantinou 7, Athens, Tel: 210.726.6100

SWITZERLAND Iasiou 2, Evaggelismos, Tel: 210.723.0364-6

TAIWAN Marathonodromon 57, Psychico, Tel: 210.677.5122 Representative office THAILAND Marathorodromon 25 &

Kyprou, P. Psychico, Tel: 210.674.9065

210.680.0230

Tel: .210.677.0220

Ploutarchou 1, Athens, Tel: 210.727.2600 Vas. Sofias 91, Athens, Tel: 210.721.2951 Menandrou 1, Kifissia, Tel: 210.361.3549 Mavili 2, P. Psychico, Tel: 210.674.3598

P. Psychico. Tel: 210.672.9169

Tel. 210.612.8733, 210.675.3080.

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

Emergencies

Tel. 210.729.4483

Tel: 210.726.3000

Ambulance Tel: 166 Doctors SOS Tel: 1016.

They will issue an invoice to claim reimbursement from your insurer.

Ipirou 1, Athens.

Duty Pharmacies

Call 1434, Also check newspapers for listings.

Emergency Hospitals Tel: 1434

Fire Brigade Tel: 199 Forest Fire Tel: 191 Poison Hotline Tel: 210.779.3777

Police Tel: 100 Tourist Police Tel: 171 Coast Guard Tel:108 Air Police Tel: 210.964.2000

ROAD ASSISTANCE ELPA Tel: 10400 Emergency Service Tel: 104 Express Service Tel: 154 Hellas Service Tel: 1057 Interamerican Tel: 1158

PAEDON AGLAIA KYRIAKOU HOSPITAL Livadias 3 and Thivon,

Ethnikis Antistaseos 66, Halandri.

Tel: 210.677.3573 www.symmetria.gr

CENTRAL CLINIC OF ATHENS

Asklipiou St. 31, Athens, Emergency number 1169 or Tel: 210.367.4000 www.centralclinic.gr

EUROCLINIC

Diagnostic, surgical and treatment centre.

Athanasiadou 9, Athens, (near Mavili Sq.), Tel: 210.641.6600

EURODENTICA

Specialized dental care Patision 150, Athens, Tel: 210.866.3367-8 Alamanas 3, Maroussi, Athens, Tel: 210.619.5760-1, El. Venizelou 162, Kallithea, Athens, Tel: 210.956.5365

YGEIA

Kifissias & E. Stavrou 4, Maroussi, Tel: 210.686.7000, www.ygeia.gr

IATRIKO KENTRO (ATHENS MEDICAL CENTER)

Areos 36, P. Faliro.

Tel: 210.989.2100-20. Distomou 5-7, Maroussi. Tel: 210.619.8100

METROPOLITAN HOSPITAL

Ethnarou Makariou 9 & El. Venizelou, N. Faliro. Tel: 210.480.9000 www.metropolitan-hospital.gr

IASO

Kifissias 37-39, Maroussi.

Tel: 210.618.4000

MITERA

Kifissias & E. Stavrou 6, Maroussi.

Tel: 210.686.9000

public Hospitals ASKLEPIEION HOSPITAL

Vas. Pavlou 1, Voula. Tel: 210.895.8301-4

EVANGELISMOS

Ypsilantou 45-47, Kolonaki, Tel: 210.720.1000

KAT HOSPITAL

Nikis 2, Kifissia, Tel: 210.628.0000 Specialized trauma unit.

TZANNEIO

Afentouli & Tzani, Pireaus, Tel: 210.451.9411-9

Paediatric Hospitals

PHYSICIANS

EUROCLINIC PAEDON

Ioannis Bitzos, MD

Health

Tel: 210.729.4356

Antheon 2, P. Psychico, Tel: 210.671.7590

Lemessou 39-41 & Aharnon 209, Kato Patissia, Tel: 210.869.1900

PAEDON AGIA SOFIA HOSPITAL Mikras Asias and Thivon, Goudi. Tel: 210.746.7000

(ENGLISH SPEAKING) Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Harilaou Trikoupi 62, Kifissia, Tel: 210.808.0682

heart & vascular centrE E.N. Deliargyris, MD FACC FSCAI Interventional cardiologist. Southern Athens.

Vakchou 2 & Vas. Kostantinou, Tel: 210.897.6276, www.heartline.gr

Lia D. Papathanakou

Dermatologist – Venerologist Adult / Pediatric Dermatology Patriarchou Ioakim 44, Kolonaki Tel: 210.729.4502, 6974355942.

Newspapers & Magazines

English media

TUNISIA

Tel: 210.674.2120

Athens Insider, the bi-monthly magazine for Greece in English

The International New York Times

carries the English version of

Kathimerini

Radio Athens International Radio 104,4

Good Morning Athens at 10am, English programs at 11am, music programs on weekdays at 9pm, weekends at 1pm.

Peiraios 100, Athens, Tel: 210.341.1610

GREEK LANGUAGE

Schools

LIBYA Vyronos 13, P. Psychico,

The Athens Center

48 Archimidous Street, Mets, Athens 11636, Greece Tel: 210.701.5242

CELT Athens

77 Academias Street, 106 78 Athens, Greece, Tel: 210.330.1455

Greek House

Dragoumi 7, 145 61 Kifissia, Tel: 210.808.5186

Hellenic American Union

22 Massalias str., 106 80 Athens, Tel: 210.368.0900

Omilo Greek Language And Culture Panagi Tsaldari 13 (4th floor), 15122 Maroussi, Tel: 210.612.2706

International SCHOOLS St Catherine's British Embassy School

Sofoklis Venizelou 77, Lykovrissi Tel: 210.282.9750

St. Lawrence College Anemon St, Koropi, Tel: 210.891.7000

A.J. Kanellopoulos, MD

American Community Schools of Athens

Dimitris Linos, MD FACS

Byron College

Eye Surgeon, Tsoha 17, Athens, Tel: 210.747.2777 General Surgeon, Kifissias 227, Kifissia, Tel: 210.612.5001-2

Aghias Paraskevis Ave. 129, Halandri, Tel: 210.639.3200 Filolaou 7, Gerakas, Tel: 210.604.7722

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New tel: 138, Tel. (defective): 129 OTE customer service: 134 International call information (English, French & German): 169 www.ote.gr

Road Assistance ELPA: 104

Public Power Corporation (DEI)

www.ika.gr

Greek Manpower Employment Organization (OAED)

www.oaed.gr, Tel: 210 99 89 000

Public Services

Paramythia

Cycladon 11, Glyka Nera, Tel: 210.600.3196

Play and Learn

Kassaveti 22, Kifissia, Tel: 210.801.1428

German kindergartens

Administration Information Center (paperwork assistance) on weekdays 8am-3pm (KEP): Tel: 177, ww.kep.gov.gr

O mikros Antonis

Tel: 148, www.hnms.gr

Scuola maternal italiana de Atene

Water Supply & Sewage (EYDAP)

Citizen’s Rights Ombudsman:

Il Mulino magico

Mitsaki 18, Ano Patissia, Tel: 210.202.0274 Troados 23, Ag Paraskevi, Tel: 210.600.3148

German School in Athens

Dimokritou 6 & Germanikis Scholis Athinon Maroussi, Tel: 210 6199260-5

Greek German School

25 Martiou & Vernardou, Vrylissia Tel: 210.682.0566

International School of Athens Xenias and Artemidos, Kifissia, Tel: 210.623.3888

Lycée Franco-Hellénique Eugène Delacroix

Chlois & Trikalon, Ag. Paraskevi Tel: 211.300.9121

Scuola Statale Italiana

Odos Mitsaki 18, Ano Patissia Tel: 210.228.2720

St Catherine's British Embassy School

Sofoklis Venizelou 77, Lykovrissi Tel: 210.282.9750

St. Lawrence College

Anemon St, Koropi, Tel: 210.891.7000

Universities University of Indianapolis

Ipitou 9, Athens, Tel: 210.323.6647

DEREE

Gravias 6, Aghia Paraskevi, Tel: 210.600.9800

ALBA Graduate Business School Athinas Ave. & Areos 2A, Vouliagmeni Tel: 210.896.4531

English kindergartens

International Kindergartens

Aghias Ioulianis, Pallini, Tel: 210.607.1700

The Cottage Kindergarten Psaron 74, Halandri Tel: 210.682.7629

Early Learning

Rizountos 53, Elliniko Tel: 210.961.8763

Hopscotch International Kindergarten Ag. Triandos 93, Vari Tel: 210.965.3985

Learning Steps

Ath. Diakou 81 & Ydras 5, Kifissia, Tel: 210.620.5818

Melina’s Kindergarten

Harilaou Trikoupi 16, Kifissia Tel: 210.801.2719

Stephanou Delta, P. Psychico Tel: 210.679.8100

Benakeios Library

Anthimou Gazi 2, Athens Tel: 210.367.1027

British Council Library Kolonaki Sq. 17, Kolonaki Tel: 210.363.3211/5

French Institute Library

Prince Allen The English Nursery School Lysimahou 8, Vari Tel: 210.965.6800

French kindergartens Au petit bonheur 50 Iraklitou, Glyfada, Tel: 210 9658 207

Mary Poppins

Spartis 36 & Harilaou Trikoupi, Kifissia Tel: 210 80 11 570 4, Kodrou, Filothei, Tel: 210.677.3803

Tel: 210.929.0200

MASTERCARD

Tel: 00.800.1188.703.03

VISA

Tel: 00.800.1163.803.04 Post offices operate weekdays 8am-2pm. The main post offices in Athens are located at SYNTAGMA SQUARE and OMONIA SQUARE at Aeolou 100 and open weekdays 7:30am-8pm, Sat 7:30am-2pm, and Sun 9am1:30pm.

Country Code: 30 City Code: 210 international calls first dial 00,

then the country code.

To call from a Public pay- phone buy a phone card at the kiosks.

Prepaid mobile phone cards (SIM cards) are available for €5 at kiosks, post offices, mini markets and mobile phone company stores.

German Archaeological Institute Library Pheidiou 1, Athens Tel: 210.362.0270

Goethe Institute Library Hellenic American Union Greek Library

Lakonias 4-6, Voula Tel: 210.895.9654

DINERS CLUB

31 Sina St, Athens Tel: 210.362.4301

Peter Pan

Business College of Athens

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Athens College Library

Omirou 14-16, Athens Tel: 210.360.8111

Vougliameni, Tel: 210.967.1970

Les Alouettes

Tatoiou 2 & Othonos 77, Kifissia Tel: 210.808.8008

Souedias 54, Athens Tel: 210.723.6313

Peek-a-boo PreSchool

American University of Athens Kifisias & Sochou 4, Neo Psichiko, Tel: 210.725.9301

Libraires

American School of Classical Studies Blegen

Campion School

Tel: 210.324.4975

Italian kindergartens

Weather Attica,

5 Hatziyiannis Mexis (near the Hilton Hotel), Tel: 210 72 89 640

AMERICAN EXPRESS

Barbayiannis, Pallini, Tel: 210.603.2527

In case of power failure: Tel: 210.523.9939 www.dei.gr

In case of water cut: Tel: 1202, www.eydap.gr

LOST OR STOLEN CREDIT CARDS

Money

Social Security & Health insurance (IKA)

Phone Post

Telephone & Internet Services (OTE)

Masalias 22 (7th floor), Athens Tel: 210.362.9886

Italian Archeological Institute Library Parthenonos 14-16, Acropolis Tel: 210921.4024

Italian Institut Library Patision 47, Omonia

National Library

Tzavella 25, Syntagma, Tel: 210.382.0657

Nordic Library

7 Kavalotti St, Makrigianni Tel: 210.924.9210, 210.924.9211

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tram

Tel: 210.998.0222

AAA Royal Prestige Tel: 210.988.3221

From the Port of Piraeus

Alitalia Tel: 210.998.8888 American

Convecta Travel Agency & Limousine Services

Tram itineraries are only from Syntagma to S.E.F (in Neo Faliro) and from Syntagma to Asklipio Voulas. From Monday to Thursday, trams operate from 5.am until midnight and non-stop from Friday morning to Sunday midnight. www.tramsa.gr

Air Taxis (Helicopter and

Limousines Kacaya

TAXIS

Tel: 210.361.3373

plane charters) Tel: 210.938.4149

British Airways Tel: 210.353.0453 Continental Tel: 210.353.4312 Cyprus Airways Tel: 210.353.4100 Easy Jet Tel: 211.198.0013 El Al Tel: 210.934.1500-1 Emirates Tel: 210.933.3400 Etihad Tel: 210.324.1010 Iberia www.iberia.com/gr Lufthansa Tel: 210.617.5200 Olympic Airways Tel: 801.801.0101 Qatar Airways Tel: 210.950.8700 Singapore Tel: 210.994.2567 Swiss / Crossair Tel: 210.617.5320 Tunisair Tel: 210.969.6496 Turkish Tel: 210.988.5700

Airport

Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport Spata. Tel: 210.353.0000, 210.353.1000. www.aia.gr

24 HOUR VIP TRANSPORT SERVICE

WSW Skycap Services at Athens Airport provides Meet & Greet, Baggage Hauling and Transport Service.

Tel: 210.353.0100 www.skycap.gr For info about the public bus lines please check our section public transport

Car rental

Ada Rent-a-Car

Astra Limousine Service

Tel: 210.922.0333/807.9996

Tel: 210.322.5090 Tel: 210.323.4120

Combined tickets for metro, buses and trolleys (€1,40) are available from metro stations and central ticket booths, valid within 90 mins of validation for all public transport - except the airport service, which costs 8€.

EXPRESS BUS from/to airport

X93 Kifisos Intercity Bus Station - Athens Airport Express.

Direct Connection to the intercity bus (KTEL) terminals KIFISOS and LIOSION X95 Syntagma – Athens Airport Express.

Direct Connection to Syntagma Square at Athens city center.

X96 Peiraias – Athens Airport Express.

Direct Connection to Piraeus central passenger port terminals.

X97 Dafni Metro Station – Athens Airport Express.

Direct Connection to DAFNI metro station.

Tickets available at the Arrivals Hall; validate on board. Fare is €6 One-way travel time estimates**: X93 (65’ min), X95 (70’ min), X96 (90’ min), X97 (70’ min).

For further information dial 185 or visit www.oasa.gr, www.ametro. gr. For info on trains visit www.proastiakos.gr

Arena Tel: 210.894.6883,

HELLENIC RAILWAYS ORGANIsATION

Auto Union

Karolou 1. Tel: 210.529.7002, www.ose.gr

Tel: 210.322.0087 210.614.7400

Tel: 210.602.0162

Avis Tel: 210.322.4951 Budget Tel: 210.921.4771-3 Europcar Tel: 210.924.8810-8

Hertz Tel: 210.998.2000 Michael Stamou Luxury

Rentals

Tel: 210.922.2442/43

Sixt Rent-a-Car Tel: 210.570.6895, 210.922.0171

ATHENS METRO Line 1 (Piraeus-Kifissia) 5am-midnight, Line 2 (Anthoupoli-Elliniko) 5.30ammidnight, Line 3 (Aghia Marina-Doukissis Plakentias) 5.30am-midnight Line 3 (Aghia Marina-Airport) 5.30am22.52pm and 06.30am-23.30pm.

The last itinerary is 2 hours later on Friday and Saturday night than it is during the week. www.ametro.gr

Taxis from the airport have a flat rate of €35 to Central Athens. Between midnight and 5am double tariff applies.

Note: If you suspect that you have been overcharged, you can call the tourist police 0n 171

INTERCITY BUSES Terminal 1: Buses for Igoumenitsa,

Ioannina, Kavala, Loutraki, Patra, the Peloponese, and Thessaloniki. Kifissou 100, Tel: 210.512.4910-1, www.ktel.org

Terminal 2: Buses for Delphi, Evia,

Galaxidi, Karpenisi, Katerini, Lamia, Livadia, Thiva and Volos. Liosion 260.

For KTEL itineraries all over Greece call 14505

RADIO TAXI Enotita Tel: 210.645.9000 Ermis Tel: 210.411.5200 Ikarus Tel: 210.515.2800 Kifissia Tel: 210.801.4000 Piraeus Tel: 210.418.2333 Radio Taxi Glyfada

Northern and Eastern Aegean Islands: Gates A & B Chios, Ikaria, Lesvos, Samos, Dodecanese Islands: Gate E Kalymnos, Kos Leros, Patmos, Rhodes, Saronic Gulf Islands: Gates G & E Aegina, Hydra, Poros, Spetses, Crete: Gate A Aghios Nikolaos, Chania, Iraklio, Kastelli (Kissamos), Rethymno, Cycladic Islands: Gates B, G & D Astipalea, Folegandros, Kimolos, Kithnos, Milos, Serifos, Sifnos: Gate B Amorgos, Donoussa, Ios, Iraklia, Koufonissi, Mykonos, Santorini, Schinoussa, Syros, Tinos: Gates G&D Naxos, Paros: Gate Gtt

Superfast Ferries Daily departures, Greece - Italy: from Patras and Igoumenitsa to Ancona and Bari Head office: 23-125 Syngrou Avenue & 3 Torva Street 11745 Athens. Tel:210.891.9000 Reservations: Athens: 210.891.9130 Thessaloniki: 2310.560.700, www. superfast.com

Hellenic Seaways 210 41 99 000 www.hellenicseaways.gr

Anek Lines www.anek.gr Domestic lines: 210 41 97 420 International lines: 210 41 97 430 Minoan Lines www.minoan.gr Tel: 801 11 75 000

Tel: 210.960.5600

There is a booking fee of €2 added to the meter, and a €3,40 + VAT for a pre-arranged meeting. For PET taxis there is an extra charge of €5.

YACHT CHARTERS A1 Yacht Trade Consortium

Akti Themistokleous 8, Marina Zeas, Piraeus. Tel: 210.458.7100

Ghiolman Yachts

Seaports

Tel: 210.965.2300-22

Public transport

Air Malta

Ferries

LIMOUSINES

Airlines

Aegean Tel: 801.11.20000 Air France KLM

Sea ports Lavrio Tel: 22920.27711, 22920.22089 Piraeus Tel: 210.422.6000-4 Rafina Tel: 22940.22300, 22940.28888

Ferries

Ferries run year-round. For information on seasonal schedules contact a travel agent or call the Port Police on 210.422.6000

Filellinon 7, Syntagma. Tel: 210.323.3696

Northstar

Poseidonos 9 & Achilleos, P. Faliro. Tel: 210.988.4000

PGA

Shipping Posidonos 61, P. Faliro.

Tel: 210.985.9400

Seahorse Alkyonidon 83 (Marina), Voula. Tel: 210.895.2212

Seascape Poseidonos Ave. 29,

Alimos.

Tel/Fax: 210.985.8301

Valef Yachts Pl. Chatzikonstanti 2, Piraeus. Tel:210.451.2010 Vernicos Yachts Posidonos 11, Kalamaki. Tel: 210.985.0122-8

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What does a Greek summer mean to you?

To us, it’s a cooling breeze on a sun-kissed island, a chorus line of cicadas, carefree boat rides and the soundtrack of rackets on the beach.

Leaping off rocky cliffs with friends, enjoying singular sunsets and cinema under the stars. A game of backgammon under the shade of an ancient oak with ice cubes clinking in a glass of cloudy ouzo. Bright explosions of bougainvillea against whitewashed walls. Grilled octopus with a drizzle of olive oil at a barefoot tavern. Watermelon and feta, and of course, the ubiquitous frappe. And framing it all, Greece’s epic light and her majestic kaleidoscopic seas.

There’s a reason why the whole world wants to be in Greece in summertime. Every single day feels like a celebration of life!

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