Insider 112 - November/December 2013

THE CITY MAGAZINE OF

November & December 2013 Year 12. Issue 112 €4.50 ISSN 1790-3114

insider athens

| November & December 2013

ATHENS

The Luxury issue Luxury Think Tank / The lustre of South Sea pearls / Cigar Talk / Festive spirit Gold inspirations / DIY exclusivity / Around Greece in 222 stays Interviews with: Rt.Hon.Michaëlle Jean, Dean Karnazes, Alexis Pantazis and Emilios Markou of Hellas Direct PLUS: ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT, FOOD & WINE, NIGHTLIFE, SHOPPING, NOVELTIES, MAPS AND MORE

Is it a luxury to talk about luxury? Is it even appropriate to do so or does it smack of Marie-Antoinette like haughtiness? Or is it all the more pertinent at a time like this? So here we are, with an issue devoted to luxury on the eve of a conference on the Business of Luxury, discussing what this six–letter word might mean to us as individuals and to Greece as an economy.

Sudha Nair-Iliades

publisher’s note This issue is packed with little hidden gems from the luxury market: Paspaley Pearls, the international Australian brand started by a Kastelorizian a few decades ago and Pentheroudakis, a family-run boutique that has been creating exquisite hand-crafted jewellery. Six personalities from different segments within the luxury industry – private aviation, jewellery, high-end accessories, cosmetics and hospitality – get together to discuss the need to address a few fundamental issues at the policy level, but also to synergise and seek solutions at the industry level. Proving that exclusivity is still an aspiration, Salon de Bricolage, a select club draws interest and members. While, for Jacoline Vinke who has stayed in more hotels across Greece than most, luxury is to feel welcome, no matter what the setting!

Luxury also means bucking the trend as a few amazing personalities interviewed in this issue have proved: The Rt.Hon. Michaëlle Jean, the former Governor General of Canada who broke several glass ceilings over the course of her career, Dean Karnazes, the ultra-marathoner of Greek descent and two maverick entrepreneurs who defied logic to set up an online insurance business in Greece.

So, whatever your take on Luxury, do enjoy reading this issue and hope you can join us at the Business of Luxury Conference on November 21.

Kales yiortes!

Sudha Nair-Iliades Publisher - Editor Sudha Nair - Iliades

Contributors in this Issue

Art Director Eliza Mouzenidou

Eleni Kefalopoulou,

Marketing and Public Relations Executive Maria Stergiou Photos Kostas Bekas Christos Drazos Julia Klimi Web Design www.studiozip.com

Patia Iordanidou, Maria Stergiou, Michael Sweet Founder Steve Pantazopoulos

Distribution Hellenic Distribution Agency Subscriptions *A thens Insider published in English in Greece € 30, Abroad € 60 *B onjour Athènes published in French in Greece € 20, Abroad € 40 * Both magazines in Greece € 50, Abroad € 90 Also published in Chinese & Russian

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Email: info@insider-magazine.gr Reproduction in whole or in part, by any means whatsoever, is forbidden except with the express written permission of the publisher.

info@insider-magazine.gr www.insider-magazine.gr www.bonjour-athenes.com

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insider athens | November & December 2013 1

contributors Kostas Bekas

Kostas Bekas was born and raised in Athens and has been capturing Athens’ rich social and diplomatic life for the past twenty years. A regular contributor to Athens Insider and Bonjour Athènes, Kostas has been the official photographer to several multinationals and embassies.

Maria studied Marketing and Communication at Athens University of Economics and Business and then moved to Barcelona where she studied and worked in the events industry. On her return to Greece she worked in the marketing departments of multinationals in the hospitality and advertising sector. She speaks English, Spanish and French and has a passion for flamenco dance.

Patia Iordanidou

Journalist and Beauty Editor Patia Iordanidou has worked for various print and online publications such as Vogue Hellas, House & Garden, Athinorama and elculture.gr. She writes on many subjects, including fashion, beauty, nightlife, restaurants and travel. After completing her Bachelor’s degree in German studies in Athens, she went on to a Masters in Communication and Media at the Universities of Kassel, Germany and Florence, Italy. She speaks several languages and is fascinated by both culture and fashion.

A documentary producer for BBC Television in the 90s, Michael worked in broadcasting in South Asia before establishing his TV production business in Australia. He lived in Athens for almost four years before moving back to Melbourne and has continued contributing to Athens Insider and for the English language edition of Australia’s largest circulation Greek newspaper, Neos Kosmos. Michael combines his writing with producing independent documentary films.

Eleni Kefalopoulou

Maria Stergiou

Michael Sweet

Eleni Kefalopoulou was born in Thessaloniki and studied drama and civil engineering. Working as an actress and translator for TV and cinema, she loves travelling, wine-tasting and discovering secrets of regional cuisines. She has followed many wine seminars in Greece and enjoys discovering the fruits of small wineries, both in Greece and further afield.

Eliza Mouzenidou was born and raised in Athens. She studied Technology of Graphic Arts and graduated with the highest GPA amongst her colleagues. For the last six years she has been working as a graphic designer for prestigious publications, designing the corporate identity for art fairs and five star hotels. Her true passion is photography and during her free time she enjoys playing tennis.

2 insider athens | November & December 2013

Eliza Mouzenidou

contents

18 22 26

Features

Departments

A woman on a mission 18 Michaëlle Jean, the 27th Governor General and Commander in Chief of Canada and UNESCO Special Envoy for Haiti shares her vision on inter-cultural diversity 18 Premium policy-makers 20 Alexis Pantazis and Emilios Markou of Hellas Direct, the broker-free, online insurance company, urge Greeks to rethink insurance An exclusive DIY project Salon de Bricolage, a select club for uncommon people with common interests

22

South Sea Odyssey 24 Marilynne Paspaley talks about her family’s journey from Kastelorizo to Australia, jewellery brand Paspaley Pearls and her high-end hospitality venture Inspirations in gold 26 Manos Pentheroudakis on the eve of the 65th anniversary of his eponymous jewellery house

Business of Luxury 28 Six personalities from the luxury sector share their insights on the luxury market in Greece Holy Smoke!

34 The author of a definitive guide on cigars, Christos Zambounis dwells on his favourite subject at Alexander’s Bar at the GB The Grand Dame of festivity 36 Eleni Kefalopoulou decants the mysteries of champagne Around Greece in 222 stays Travel-writer Jacoline Vinke takes us on a tour of Greece in 222 stays

38

Arts 6 Fast Lane 14 In the spotlight 16 Interview 18 Business 20 Luxury 24 Lunch date 28 Agora 32 Close encounters 34 Celebration 36

The man who knows no limits 46 Dean Karnazes, the Greek-American ultra-marathoner who defies all human odds runs at the Navarino Challenge

Travel 38

Athenian eats A round-up of the city’s new restaurants

Restaurants 48

48

Beauty 42 Sports 46

Kaleidoscope 72

28 36 38 42 48 Find us on:

Cover picture: shutterstock

4 insider athens | November & December 2013

and at www.insider-publications.com

Join us in celebrating the most magical time of the year in Athens The multi-awarded Hotel Grande Bretagne invites you to experience luxury and tradition during Christmas and New Year’s Eve. With mythical views, indigenous sights and unique flavors, it gracefully embraces the native spirit of Athens. Explore our exclusive events in our festive brochure, reserve your stay with our special accommodation offer and offer your beloved ones a memorable gift.

Visit the renowned landmark Hotel Grande Bretagne and live a unique experience through a collection of luxury accommodation services and indulging moments. Experience an unsurpassed cultural journey while enjoying the glittering views of Athens, during the most festive time of the year.

Happy holidays and a prosperous 2014!

For more information, visit grandebretagne.gr or call 210 33 30 000

From December 10th 2013, visit the landmark Hotel Grande Bretagne and its dedicated Christmas Desk for exclusive gift ideas and Christmas or New Year’s Eve bookings & reservations.

Arts & events

On the town For location details see listings on page 65

01

02

147 2224 2528 2728 november december

november

november

november

Zoumboulakis Galleries

Onassis Cultural Center

Television Control Centre

Megaron

Solo Exhibition Zan-Tac 01 Large and small dimensional works in acrylic and charcoal dominate the colourful and jocular world of Nikos Lagos.

The drawings give way to a dense cloud of crowded words and letters which covers recurrent patterns. Lagos’ works refer to the contemporary chaos and the resulting mental confusion we experience. At the same time however they aspire to introduce humor and joy through their cartoon impression.

Kolonaki Square 20 www.zoumboulakis.gr

James Thiérrée Tabac Rouge 02 James Thiérrée shares his singular artistic universe with the audience through a strange reconstruction of the human condition; conjuring up marvellous images on stage, he provides an antidote to trying times. The originator of a theatrical genre which combines circus, burlesque, dance, music and spectacular sets, the productions Thiérrée creates are much-anticipated cultural events. As charismatic as ever on stage, Thiérrée directs another production of exceptional visual power which will leave his fans, young and old, lost for words.

Syngrou 107 - 109 www.sgt.gr

“Oedipus at Colonus,”

by Scarface Ensemble The Scarface Ensemble comes for the first time to Greece to present the last play of the great tragedian Sophocles where king Oedipus undergoes a transformation from an abject beggar, banished from his city because of his sins, into a figure of immense power, capable of extending divine blessings. The play is staged in French.

Tickets: 6 -12€ Kyprou 91A & Sikinou, Kypseli http://polychorosket.gr

China Disabled People’s Performing Art Troupe: “My Dream” With credentials from around the world, the troupe comes to offer a spectacle deeply touching and essentially entertaining. Exceptional artists, with disarming ability to overcome difficulties, transmit their magic in a unique way and send a message of optimism and vigour. Young artists who are mute, communicate with harmonious and lively movements, others who do not see, unfurl their own world with wonderful songs and spectacular dances and others with physical disabilities, express their confidence in life, with movement and melody.

Vas. Sofias & Kokkali www.megaron.gr

6 insider athens | November & December 2013

Arts & events

On the town For location details see listings on page 65

03

04

05

2730 30 until

november

november

march

Cycladic Museum Figures loved and idealised.

Illustrating poems by 03 C.P.Cavafy Celebrating Cavafy’s anniversary, the Cycladic Museum puts on an exhibition that showcases 67 ancient works from 11 Greek museums and Ephorates, which frame 27 selected poems. The ‘illustration’ of poems includes sculptures, copper utensils, clay figurines and pottery, coins, funerary portraits, tombstones, icons and church utensils of postByzantine period.

Neophytou Douka 4 www.cycladic.gr

Ileana Tounta Contemporary Art Center Contemporary Treasures 04 Greek and foreign artists deal with the concept of ephemeral luxury and issues of material culture in an era of constant doubt. The participating artists share the same concerns about the nature of the artwork, the transmission of an idea through an object and its aesthetic value or non- value.

The exhibition combines works that merge the past with the future in a new spatial situation.

Armatolon-Klefton 48, Athens www.art-tounta.gr

8 insider athens | November & December 2013

30

until

november

El.marneri galerie The Street of Commerce 05 The well known artist Christina Morali presents her latest work: “The street of commerce”, in which she tries to apply simple forms of commerce to her ceramic sculptures. Sacks, boxes and packs in different shapes and sizes, all reminding us of commercial transactions from another era. Inspired by Papadopoulos Biscuits, one of the oldest Greek companies, she creates a collection of limited edition pieces, driven by the nostalgia of the company’s old posters, advertisements and packaging from the 1930s.

Lebessi 5-7 & Porinou 16, Akropoli www.elenimarneri.com

1

until

d ecember

Former Athens Stock Exchange 4th Athens Biennale 2013 Agora This year’s Biennale will set out to explore creative alternatives to a state of bankruptcy.

Titled AGORA, the exhibition proposed by AB4 will be realized in an emblematic building by a nameless and ephemeral group of artists, curators, theorists and practitioners in creative industries. What matters most to those who participate is a shared sense of responsibility and an urge to co-produce meaning.

Sofokleous 8-10, Athens www.athensbiennale.org

Arts & events

On the town For location details see listings on page 65

06

07

58

until

8

d ecember

december

1923 255 december

december

january

Pallas Theater

B&M Theocharakis Foundation

Megaron

Badminton Theater

Snow White and 7 Dwarfs 06 The festive atmosphere comes alive with National Opera of Kiev’s ballet based on the charming tale of the Grimm Brothers’ Snow White and the 7 Dwarfs presented for the first time in Greece. Three decades ago, the Russian choreographer Genrikh Mayorov was inspired by the famous fairy tale and created a choreography based on the original music of Polish composer Bogdan Pavlovsky.

Tickets: 10-58€ Voukourestiou 5, Athens www.ellthea.gr

C.P.Cavafy: “Painted”.

40 Contemporary Greek Artists For the celebration of Cavafy’s 150 year anniversary, exceptional works of art by distinguished artists such as Yiannis Tsarouchis, Basil Theocharakis, Alekos Fassianos, Michalis Makroulakis, Kostas Varotsos and Yiannis Metzikoff will be on display at the foundation.

Imaginative paintings and sculptures, immediately related to Cavafy’s poetic realm, reveal a universe where writing and image coexist.

Tickets: 4-6€ Vas. Sofias 9 & Merlin 1 ww.thf.gr

Christmas with Sylvie Guillem 07 The leading dancer in the world, prima ballerina of the Paris Opera and the Covent Garden, the muse of Maurice Bejart, Kenneth McMillan and William Forsythe returns with 3 unique performances. The Great Diva dances in “Margarita and Armand, Etudes” along with the famous Tokyo Ballet and 95 dancers. As a key instigator of modern dance, Sylvie Guillem along with Akram Khan, will give us the explosive interpretation in the masterpiece Sacred Monsters.

Finally, Tokyo Ballet will present the Sleeping Beauty, the ever-lasting “tale for young and older children”.

Vas. Sofias & Kokkali www.megaron.gr

St. Petersburg Ice Ballet, The Nutcracker Experience the magic of Christmas with the famous ballet of St. Petersburg which comes to Badminton Theater to give us generous doses of beauty, grace, colour and innocence, unraveling on ice the world famous and endearing Christmas tale, The Nutcracker. It is one of the most beloved compositions by Pyotr IlyichTchaikovsky, one of the first global successes of the St. Petersburg Ballet and a classical piece for the world’s most famous dance troupes.

Olympic Properties, Goudi www.badmintontheater.gr

10 insider athens | November & December 2013

Join in the festive ambience at Arion, A Luxury Resort Collection and Spa at Astir Palace Resort and celebrate the holiday season with your dear ones.

Festive Indulgences:

Festive Rates

Christmas Eve dinner at the Grill room restaurant. Price per person €74 (excluding drinks) / €35 for children up to 12 years old. Live music with piano and singer from 20.00

• Grand deluxe garden/marina view from €145 • Grand deluxe sea view from €155 • Daily Buffet Breakfast at Alia Brasserie restaurant, with fascinating sea views • Discounted daily access fee to Arion Spa facilities • Complimentary late check-out at 16.00pm, upon availability • 50% off the second room for families

Christmas Day in Alexander Ballroom Price per person €68 (excluding drinks) / children 50% discount up to 12 years old.

Buffet lunch with live music band, open 13:00-17:00. Lots of surprises from Santa and the Kids Club team

New Year’s Eve in the ALEXANDER BALLROOM Price per person €95 (excluding drinks) | Children €45 (up to 12 years old). Live music band, from 21:00

New Year’s Day breakfast at ALIA BRASSERIE Festive buffet, 05:30-1:00. Price per person €38

New Year’s Day lunch in a festive atmosphere at the ALEXANDER BALLROOM Welcome glass of champagne. Buffet lunch with live music band, open from 1:00pm-5.00pm.

Price per person €68 (excluding drinks) / children 50% discount up to 12 years old Arion, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Astir Palace Resort 40, Apollonos St. Vouliagmeni For information and bookings please call: (30) 210.8902000 or e-mail: Astir.Reservations@starwoodhotels.com For online reservations, visit: arionresortathens.com, astir-palace.com

Make your reservations until December 9th, 2013 and get a 15% discount on your stays from December 20, 2012 to January 8, 2013!

Arts & events

On the town For location details see listings on page 65

08

09

14

until

january

26

until

january

until

february

until

july

Onassis Cultural Center

Cycladic Museum

Hellenic Cosmos

Benaki Museum

Christian Boltanski Εyes 08 Christian Boltanski defends throughout his artistic life, the right to freedom, which corresponds to every human being, regardless of rac,e religion or social class. In the exhibition Eyes, Boltanski isolates and enlarges the eyes of the Athenians drawing his material from actual photographs from identity cards.

Syngrou 107 - 109 www.sgt.gr

Martin Kippenberger: A Cry for Freedom 09 The exhibition will present over 60 works including paintings, sculptures, hotel drawings and photographs of this prolific German artist. He navigated the uncharted waters of unknown territories of freedom, a dangerous operation for which he paid dearly with his untimely death at the age of 44. The exhibition attempts to follow his voyage, the story of a man dedicated to the pursuit of freedom against all the restraints of orthodoxy and to elucidate the multifaceted ways by which he always broke the rules Neophytou Douka 4 www.cycladic.gr

Exhibition on Leonardo Da Vinci The exhibition has traveled through over 20 cities worldwide and provides a comprehensive insight into the landmarks of the life and works of this amazing historical figure.

Within the exhibition there are over 40 3D interactive models of his inventions and machines complemented by multimedia installations with 55 simulations. The visitors will also have the opportunity to admire 23 digital copies of Da Vinci’s most famous artistic creations, such as “The Mona Lisa”, “The Last Supper” and “Lady with an Ermine”.

Pireos 254, Tavros www.hellenic-cosmos.gr

Yannis Tsarouchis: Illustration of an autobiography.

The exhibition presents the history of Yannis Tsarouchis’ paintings, re-creating the environment in which he lived and investigating the manner in which he was influenced throughout his artistic progress. The theme “Illustrating an autobiography” will be shown in two parts, each of which will last a full year. Viewers will begin with Yannis Tsarouchis’s childhood in Piraeus, Athens and Kifissia, and will traverse the artist’screative era through his works, his acquaintances, his intimates, his collaborators and his teachers.

Tickets: 2,5- 5€ Pireos 138 www.benaki.gr

12 insider athens | November & December 2013

Private parties Στο Explorers Bar ή στην Προεδρική Σουίτα με finger food και Open Bar από 50€ /το άτομο

Catering με γεύση γιορτής Γαλοπούλα φρέσκια με παραδοσιακή γέμιση και πατάτες φούρνου. Δώρο το γλυκό!

ΛΑΜΠΕΡΕΣ ΓΙΟΡΤΕΣ ΣΤΑ ΦΩΤΑ ΤΗΣ ΠΟΛΗΣ

τιμή 110€

Παραμονή Χριστουγέννων και Πρωτοχρονιάς Πλούσιος μπουφές τιμή 67€*/το άτομο Ζωντανή Μουσική Περιλαμβάνει ένα μπουκάλι κρασί Housewine στα 2 άτομα *για παιδιά κάτω των 12 ετών, μισή τιμή! Ώρες : από 21.30

Ανήμερα Χριστούγεννα και Πρωτοχρονιά Οικογενειακό brunch με γιορτινή ατμόσφαιρα τιμή Μπουφέ 60€*/το άτομο Περιλαμβάνει ένα μπουκάλι κρασί Housewine στα 2 άτομα *για παιδιά κάτω των 12 ετών, μισή τιμή! Ώρες : από 13.00 έως 16.30

Find us on:

πλ. Συντάγματος, Aθήνα Πληροφορίες κρατήσεων στα τηλ. 210 3352400 και στο email: info@njvathensplaza.gr www.njvathensplaza.gr

Fast Lane A glimpse of Indonesia

The largest archipelago in the world, Indonesia is a fascinating destination, and has long been a favourite choice for Greek tourists. From the tranquility of Bali to the luxuriant rain forests of Sumatra and Kalimantan, the snow-capped peaks of West Papua to the divers’ coral paradise of Bunaken and Sulawesi, or the surfer’s paradise in Nias and the unique temples of Borobudur and Prambanan, Indonesia offers it all: adventure, relaxation and a plethora of cultural experiences. At a Presentation of Indonesia organized by the Indonesian Embassy in Athens and Versus Travel on 30 October, two 13-day packages, Crossing Java and

Shopaholics Unite!

Stores in Athens will stay open for seven Sundays a year starting 1 November until the New Year and will stay open throughout all Sundays in the year in Pallini (which includes the McArthur Glen Outlet and Smart Park complexes).

Zolotas goes digital Zolotas introduces its new online store and promises its customers, both in Greece and abroad, a unique online shopping experience. Shoppers can pick from Zolotas’ timeless collections, seasonal gifts and charms as well as special wedding collections, wherever and whenever they choose. With quick and safe delivery guaranteed, here is one way to give in to your festive impulses with just a click. What’s more, each purchase can be sent as a gift with a personalized card.

Husbands and suitors, take note! www.zolotas.gr

Philoxenia: The art of Greek hospitality The largest tourism exhibition in the country, Philoxenia showcases new trends in Greek tourism from 21 to 24 November at the Thessaloniki International Exhibition Center. With over 100 Hosted Buyers from 33 countries around the world participating, Philoxenia is the most important meeting point of creative businesses and institutions related to tourism, which not only informs about new trends in the industry but also showcases the wealth of Greek destinations. www.helexpo.gr/philoxenia

14 insider athens | November & December 2013

Bali by Road and Train and Indonesia Panorama were presented to an enthusiastic audience. The first package covers Jakarta, the city of temples, Yogyakarta, exotic Surabaya, the Bromo volcano and then Bali, from its more well-known southern part to the northern beach of Lovina. The second package starts from Jakarta, then Yogyakarta, with the breath taking temples of Borobudur and Prambanan, Java, Surabaya, Bali - the Island of Gods, followed by Sulawesi and Rantepao, the land of Torajas, the tribe with it’s unique burial customs!

For more information, www.indonesia.gr

A Roof with a view The impressive multipurpose room on Civitel Olympic’s rooftop offers an ideal setting for hosting corporate events and private parties with a stunning view of the Olympic Stadium and of Northern Athens. Located in the business district of Maroussi and spread over 300 sq. metres, with room for 290 guests for a cocktail reception, the Roof Garden can be accessed practically all year round from spring to early winter. www.civitel.eu

Kouzina, Chicago 1 2

3

4

Events &

1

The National Hellenic Museum in Chicago hosted it’s 6th annual Kouzina food and wine tasting event on September 19. Guests celebrated the flavours of Greece with 14 top chefs who prepared Greek inspired dishes accompanied by premium Greek wines.

Kouzina is held under the Aegis of the Hellenic Ministry of Rural Development and Food and its sponsors included Gaea, Fage USA, Grecian Delight and GNTO. Seen here: 1. Aris Kefalogiannis, CEO of Gaea with John Theoharis, President of the Greektown Chamber of Commerce and Peter Parthenis, CEO of Grecian Delight 2. Costas Drossos at the Gaea stand 3. Kouzina Chef Chair John Gatsos 4. Sofia Soloman and Carrie Davenport from the Rogers Collection featuring Biolea olive oil 5. Grigoria Kamaterou, director of the GNTO in the US and Canada 6. A view of the bar.

5

6

People

The Hellenic Initiative, NYC

600 guests, including President Bill Clinton and Prime Minister Samaras were present at the The Hellenic Initiative’s Inaugural Banquet in New York on October 3 that raised more than $1.9 million to support recovery and renewal in Greece, one of the most successful fundraising events ever within the Greek Diaspora. George Stephanopoulos was the Master of Ceremonies. 1. The event honoured three distinguished individuals for their many contributions to the people of

16 insider athens | November & December 2013

2

Greece: (from r to l) Muhtar Kent, CEO and Chairman of The CocaCola Company, Andrew N. Liveris, CEO and Chairman of The Dow Chemical Company and Andreas Dracopoulos, Co-CEO of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation, with Prime Minister Antonis Samaras and George Logothetis of the Libra Group. 2. Jeremy Downward of Alpheus Advisors and chair of the advisory committee of anchor investors of THI with Sudha Nair-Iliades, Publisher of Insider Publications.

In the spotlight 1

Air France celebrated its 80th birthday in style on 24 October at CityLink.

1. With the whole building bathed in the colours of the airline, the General Manager of Air France KLM in Greece, Yann Gilbert thanked partners for their support. 2. Seen here with Tourism Minister Ms. Olga Kefalogiannis and the French Ambassador Jean-Loup Kuhn-Delforge.

Air France turns 80 2

Tribute to Roussos

JFK on NatGeo National Geographic Channel airs a special film on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of JFK’s assassination, Killing Kennedy on 17 November at 9 pm. The film will be telecast in 171 countries and in 48 different languages. At the preview screening of the film on 14 November at the Athens College Auditorium, the ambience was ‘60s America. Theodoris Koutsouyiannopoulos flanked by Vangelis Georgiades and Nadia Demiri of Fox International Channels, Greece.

Legendary singer-songwriter Demis Roussos was honoured by the French Ambassador Jean-Loup Kuhn-Delforge on 30 September with a ‘Chevalier de l’Ordre de la Légion d’honneur’ for his outstanding contribution to music and French-Greek ties. Having entertained audiences internationallly for well over 50 years, initially as part of groups such as Aphrodite’s child and later with his solo career, Roussos now splits his time between France and Greece. Seen here in picture, holding a copy of Bonjour Athenes, with Nelly Muller.

Canadian art

1 The Vorres Museum hosts an exhibition of works created by women artists from Canada’s rural/non-metropolitan northern regions The Lure of the Local: Women Artists in the Canadian Land(scape).

1. The exhibition was inaugurated on November 5 by the Rt. Hon-

2

3

ourable Michaëlle Jean and Ion Vorres. 2. The Canadian Ambassador Robert Peck speaking to one of the artists. 3. Curator Dr. Caterina Pizanias, seen here with the artists, delivering the welcome address.

insider athens | November & December 2013 17

Stateswoman extraordinaire

Rt. Honourable Michaëlle Jean Photo credits: Kostas Bekas

The Rt. Honourable Michaëlle Jean is a lady of many accomplishments.

Born in Haiti, she went on to become the 27th Governor General and Commander in Chief of Canada for a five-year term from 2005, and is currently the UNESCO Special Envoy for Haiti and the Chancellor of the University of Ottawa. An ardent Hellenophile, she converses with Sudha Nair-Iliades on the eve of her lecture on inter-cultural diversity at the Megaron on 4 November.

F

or a head of state, Michaëlle Jean exudes an air of easy accessibility, speaking to people on a first-name basis within seconds of being introduced to them. I had met her briefly in 2009 on her state visit to Greece and twice on her more recent visit here and it is that empathy with which she interacts with people, showing genuine concern for their stories that strikes one first. She speaks at length on her incredible personal journey as an 11-year old refugee from Haiti to Canada to her ascent to the highest office in the land - and on a few issues she holds dear: cultural diversity, education, Haiti, its special ties to Greece and Francophonie.

18 insider athens | November & December 2013

On her personal journey: “I was born in Haiti under the dictatorship of François Duvalier and witnessed first-hand what political repression meant: the violence, disappearances and the public executions. My father was arrested and tortured and his best friend died in his arms. Like so many Haitian families, we had to flee. We arrived in Canada in ’68 when I was 11.

As it happens so often to families in exile, my parents soon divorced and my mother had to raise us single-handedly.

For me she was a role model; a woman of great courage and determination, of amazing ideas and convictions. As a teacher, she organized literacy campaigns for illiterate

Diplomacy

TCDL

women in the factory where she worked, teaching them during lunch breaks. She later worked at a hospital, and put herself through school to train as a nurse in psychiatry.

Women’s empowerment: So my mother taught me that it’s never over. Nothing is impossible.

That’s how I was educated. In a country of a brutal dictatorship, you have the responsibility to act. Indifference should never be an option.

That’s what my mother taught me and it stayed with me in everything I did in Canada.

Very soon, by the age of 17, I started working with amazing feminist women who were very inspirational to me. I worked for 11 years and I became one of the women who founded a network of emergency shelters for women victims of violence and their children. The network was about raising awareness about violence against women and supporting them in their decision to start a new life. From Quebec, where we started, we helped other provinces in Canada do the same. For me that has been a school, an amazing learning experience. It made me the citizen I am today, I learned how to listen, how to go from words to actions, how to realize that we can all have an impact. So being a social activist and a feminist meant a lot in my life.

Journalism: It was the end of Duvalier’s regime and the first free elections in the country were to be held after decades. I was then living in the Greek neighbourhood in Montreal and we often had heated debates in Greek tavernas. We shared a lot of things in common because Greece and Haiti have an important historic bond - Haiti was the first State in the world to recognize the Hellenic Republic.

I went back to Haiti in 1986 and a friend encouraged me to report on the incredible enthusiasm for the restoration of democracy in Haiti.

An Egyptian film maker, Tahani Rached, read my articles and asked me to be part of a documentary film to report on the election in Haiti.

It ended in bloodshed because the militia didn’t want democracy.

People were massacred as they were in line to vote. Our team was attacked by the militia while we were filming.

When we went back to Canada, it was a big story. CBC and Radio Canada were really impressed with my work. So that is how I started in journalism. But for me, journalism was a civic responsibility, a duty to enable people to make informed choices. Being the only black woman in the newsroom, I realized early on that just by being on the screen, it would open doors and minds and give hope to minorities. My mere presence could project that change in breaking walls of prejudice, perceptions and mentalities. So for 18 years, I worked and became a very respected journalist.

On being appointed as Canada’s Head of State: When the position of Governor General came up, I accepted the position for the same reason. Because I knew that it was a way to open doors wider. I was never part of a political party though I was socially committed. I accepted the appointment and I remember asking the Prime Minister (Paul Martin): “Do you realize what this will mean – for a black woman who arrived here as a refugee to become the Governor General of Canada?” He replied, “Not only will it resonate with Canadians, it will send a powerful signal across the world”… and

Rt. Honourable Michaëlle Jean with Canadian Ambassador Robert Peck

that is what happened. The day of my appointment we were overwhelmed by people saying: ‘Oh my goodness, look at Canada. She wasn’t born here, she came with her family as a political refugee, she is a black woman, a feminist. So it sent an amazing signal of what is possible in Canada. This is about celebrating our diversity, defining citizenship as something open to everybody. And I have to say that Canada contains the world, it is a land of huge diversity. We do have issues of exclusion, racism and marginalization in Canada but we are always looking for solutions; this is our mentality in Canada.

On education: From my family and the Haitian experience, it was clear that education is the key to freedom, not just to success. For those of us who come from the experience of slavery, education is the revolution that freed us. From the first constitution of Haiti, education was the first aspiration. As slaves, our ancestors were deprived of everything, dispossessed of their integrity and dignity, of all possibilities. So to free ourselves we had to fight against illiteracy and ignorance. It is about investing in knowledge, skills, capacities.

I understand that one step to overcome the crisis Greece is confronting is to invest in education. And as the Chancellor for the University of Ottawa, I’m particularly happy that together with the Stavros Niarchos Foundation, we have created scholarship programmes for Greek students who can study in French or English, at the University of Ottawa, the biggest bi-lingual campus in the world. We are also building partnerships with Greek Universities to enable Greek students to come and study in Canada, but with the commitment to go back to Greece and contribute to the future of Greece.

Greece: Each time I’m back in this country that I so love, always bathed in light, a country that has given so much, I feel very welcome. The crisis is not just a Greek one, but a global one and it is not just an economic crisis, but a crisis of values. I hope Greece will show us the way again, as it has in the past, as a beacon for humanity.

insider athens | November & December 2013 19

Alexis Pantazis

Emilios Markou

Premium policy-makers When Alexis Pantazis and Emilios Markou decided to give it all up - cushy jobs at Goldman Sachs in London - to come to Greece while other investors were fleeing, one had to attribute it to an impulse of daredevilry that bordered on madness.

Hoping to break clichéd perceptions, Hellas Direct, the broker-free, online insurance company co-founded by the duo in 2011, urges Greeks to ‘rethink insurance’ and to change the Greek insurance market, one policy at a time.

T

hink of men in the insurance business. Now visualize them again.

Meet the most unlikely duo of Alexis Pantazis and Emilios Markou. Attired in casuals and resolutely tie-less, their scrutinizing analysis of the Greek business landscape peppered with brilliant analogies and mordant humour, qualifies them as copywriters or talk-show hosts – anything, but insurance-men.

So how did they end up setting up an online insurance company in Greece? Both Alexis and Emilios schooled together in Cyprus but with Emilios being six years older, they never really ‘bonded’. Fast forward to London in 2005, both of them are now working for Goldman Sachs and lunch together often. They’d both invested in start-ups and seriously toyed with the idea of setting up a Greek café for University students. Alexis fills in, “We had even checked out a few places in and around Neal’s Yard in London on Saturday mornings. On the back of those site-scouting and brainstorming sessions, it made sense to look at this part of the world and what one could do in terms of entrepre-

20 insider athens | November & December 2013

neurship. Quite frankly, I felt closer to being an insurance man than a coffee shop owner.”

So what was to be the London caffeine lover’s loss turned out to be the Greek car owner’s gain. Emilios continues, “We were mulling in terms of what business models we could import to Greece. We knew the US crisis would spill its way to Greece. We knew there were no pure direct-to-consumer insurance companies around. And we knew that car insurance was the only insurance bound by law in Greece. So we focused on importing a model that worked. By mid-2009 we had both left our jobs and started working on a business plan to build a next-generation car insurance company.”

The duo quickly learnt that Greece had its own little quirks. Alexis offers by way of explanation, “There were a whole lot of things that hadn’t been considered: There was no e-commerce, no easy internet access and the general perception towards a bunch of 35-40 year olds trying to set up an insurance company, was at best, suspicious.”

“

Business

”

The phrase ‘Rethink Insurance’ captures the essence of why we exist as a company.

A few rapid-fire questions: How do you break the ground rules in such a conservative sector?

Our view was that there was no point looking at Greece’s past. We just had to follow the model adopted by other companies in Western Europe. We had to challenge all assumptions and revisit the way things were being done. We started with a blank piece of paper and wanted to redefine what customer service really meant. The phrase ‘Rethink Insurance’ captures the essence of why we exist as a company.

For a highly uninsured market like Greece, what are the opportunities for Hellas Direct?

The potential is huge. Greece may never reach the insurance potential of other European countries as Greeks have never fully trusted their mafia-style insurance sector that has consistently overcharged and underserved them. The average German buys 9 insurance products, the average Greek buys 1.5 to 2 products. Even with comparable economies such as Cyprus and Israel, 90% of the market buys the ‘fully comprehensive’ package in car insurance compared to an abysmally low 6% in Greece.

Why? Because there is no trust in the insurance sector here.

Is online insurance a logical follow-up to internet banking? Have you had resistance from technology-averse consumers?

There was no reluctance at all. The consumer here is the same guy as anywhere else, but he simply didn’t have the tools. Typically here, companies take their offline procedures and put it on an online platform. It doesn’t work that way. You need rock-star service too.

We believe that the insurance industry here will go through radical transformation and traditional players who do not adapt to change will be forced out of business. As you said, technology has already changed the way we bank and with cloud computing, insurance companies would be able to better analyze risk and offer fairer pricing to

“

RCD

ers and understand their needs.

How easy was it to attract investors in 2011, when Greece was a capital-flight zone ?

We are lucky to have an impressive group of Greek and international investors supporting us, people who understand the dynamics of the market. Among them are British venture capitalist Jon Moulton, the (retiring) Chairman of Goldman Sachs Asset Management Jim O’Neill and the Leventis and Jacovides families here. Raising capital was not easy and doing so, during the most uncertain period in Greece’s history with bail-outs and threats of referendum, was certainly less so.

We met over 300 investors in a dozen countries – one, on Christmas Eve in Israel (cancelling out planned family celebrations), and had a conference call with another from the maternity hospital, minutes after Emilios’ first baby was born! We’re equally proud of our strategic partnership with Munich Re, one of the world’s largest reinsurers with a premium income of €50bn. Munich Re shares our risk, essentially guaranteeing that our clients get paid in time and in full.

And how has the consumer-experience panned out so far? Have you met your targets?

We didn’t expect to squash the big names overnight but we’re lucky to be around when the Greek consumer is re-evaluating all relationships and is open to change. We have been overwhelmed by the level of support we have received and the expat community has been particularly welcoming to us. Being one of the few, if not the only, insurance sites available in English, we are able to cater to foreigners living in Greece.

So what does the future hold for the insurance market in Greece?

With bad conduct and in the absence of any regulation whatsoever, the insurance industry here has been plagued with malpractices. The consumer has had to foot the bill for this, through obscene commissions (more than 25%), company closures and claims refusals. We hope some of these excesses will get purged and that the regulator

We are quick: it takes our average customer around 4 minutes to purchase a policy, with the contract delivered directly to their inbox. We speak in plain language with no fine print to comb through. Our site is easily navigable and we are fully online.

consumers. We are obviously big believers in innovation and we’ve started using social media in our underwriting processes.

What are the advantages compared to other insurers in the market?

A few basic things: Price, service, trust, plus transparency and speed.

We draw the analogy of a Greek insurance consumer with someone who has been burnt before in a relationship. You need to build trust, show that you’re credible. But the reason they’ll buy is that they hear we give kick-ass service. We are quick: it takes our average customer around 4 minutes to purchase a policy, with the contract delivered directly to their inbox. We speak in plain language with no fine print to comb through. Our site is easily navigable and we are fully online. We use no middlemen, eliminating all commissions and hidden costs. We deal directly with our clients. We have extremely competitive rates for safe drivers. Still, what we would identify as our long-term competitive advantage is that we are humble enough to listen to our custom-

”

will take on the challenge of cleaning up the industry. As Greek consumers begin to demand efficiency, we hope they will pick Hellas Direct for our professionalism, high quality of service and competitive prices.

A few goals you’d like to achieve and a few changes you’d like to see implemented?

Our hopes: That there will be more companies like us; that we can bring interesting returns to our investors; that we become the Amazon of Greece; that we become the best place to work for, attracting the best talent.

Changes: To make Athens a centre of entrepreneurship as Mayor Bloomberg has done in New York, when he provided free internet access and free wifi. And to allow direct recruitment on campus! For now, we’re happy to change the insurance system. We’ll consider changing the education system later!

insider athens | November & December 2013 21

An exclusive DIY project

Society

When art-collector, restaurateur and entrepreneur Chrysanthos Panas puts his mind to something, it is, by definition, an elegant idea whose time has come. As with his other immensely successful ventures, Salon de Bricolage, a select club in Kolonaki promises to be the meeting-point for uncommon people with common interests.

C

hrysanthos Panas is a man of many talents and certainly one who has exquisite taste. So when he decided to create a club, he envisaged an establishment for people from the arts and letters, from industry, the media, diplomacy, design and fashion to come together to share their passion for good food and wine around an evening of culture.

Welcome to Salon de Bricolage, a club dedicated to its own independent universe. “It is a whole philosophy unto itself,” explains Panas. “The club was founded upon the idea of people who are seemingly different in their interests but share a common wish to entertain themselves in a valued manner, interacting.” And why the unusual name for the club? Almost expecting to be asked the question several times over, Panas offers by way of explanation, “The name indicates the club’s attitude which urges its members to be active, participate in events and adopt a DIY style.”

New members must be approved by a designated committee to join the Salon de Bricolage and may be accompanied by three friends upon entry. Its current membership is comprised of personalities from different fields who seek and appreciate superior quality, sophistication and understated glamour.

Panas elaborates, “The club constitutes a collective effort to promote art, gastronomy and wellbeing. Thus, besides entertaining themselves in the hip area of Kolonaki, members

22 insider athens | November & December 2013

can also attend various happenings organized by the Salon de Bricolage, exclusively for its guests. From gastronomy seminars and premium wine and spirits tastings to exhibitions and live performances, club members are offered a rich calendar of events and private parties throughout the year.”

Done in minimalist neutral shades with striking bursts of colour, the club houses two restaurants: one on the ground floor serving brasserie style food and another on the first floor, Premier Etage, with Asian-fusion cuisine. A bar / gallery on the ground floor provides an ideal setting to nurse a drink with friends and business partners while the first floor has a common ‘salon’ with a card table by a cozy fireplace and a rich library stacked with interesting reads: a private little oasis to unwind and entertain in the heart of the city. An interesting new addition is the possibility for members and their guests to avail of four well-appointed studios, just above the club.

Reflecting its cosmopolitan character, Salon de Bricolage is affiliated to some of the most sought-after clubs including The Arts Club and The Hospital Club in London and The Brody House in Budapest.

Salon de Bricolage offers a discounted annual fee for diplomats at 500€, instead of the standard fee of 1000€. www.salondebricolage.gr

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South Sea Odyssey Nick Paspaley Senior and his crew in the 1940s.

Photo courtesy Paspaley.

Paspaley Pearls, one of the great jewellery brands, began with a Kastelorizon’s journey to Australia. Marilynne Paspaley talks about her family’s story, her venture into luxury hospitality, and the eternal lure of Pinctada Maxima.

O

n a balmy evening in Melbourne, Paspaley Pearl’s bespoke retail outlet at the ‘Paris end’ of Collins Street is buzzing. Aproned waiters weave through the crowd deftly with trays of Veuve Cliquot as the evening’s guest presenter - Marilynne Paspaley - who knows a thing or two about giving a performance - is about to begin.

The youngest daughter of legendary Greek pearling pioneer Nicholas Paspaley is about to share her insights, not just into one of the greatest ever Greek Australian business stories, but what created, and sustains to this day, the success of the Paspaley brand.

Nicholas Paspaley carved out a livelihood in northern Australia that has become one of the great Greek diaspora stories; the young migrant pioneer from Kastelorizo who went in search of the most beautiful wild pearls in the world - and who later grew those pearls in the pristine waters off northern Australia.

Marilynne still has the same fascination for the pearls that shone so brightly for her father. “It’s called the Pinctada Maxima and it’s absolutely magnificent,” she says, proudly holding up an example of the large iridescent shell for all to see. “For two years you have no idea how the pearl is growing inside shell. It’s only at harvest time, when you actually take that pearl out of its shell, that you see whether it’s been worth it. It’s a little bit like having children,” she adds, to hoots of laughter.

“The pearl is the only gem that is made by a living creature. Every other gem is made by decay, by time, by pressure.”

“That’s one of the reasons why we find them mesmerising. That is why when you are looking for something you might like, one will speak to you. Not all of them, but one.” Unlike most tellings of her father’s story, Marilynne’s includes an acknowledgement of the role played by her mother Vivienne in the Paspaley legend - a part Marilynne says she only fully appreciated years later. “My father had an extraordinary vision, but even his own family thought he was a bit of a dreamer,” she says. “They thought it was impossible, a wild fantasy.

My mother came from a comfortable background in Sydney.She was the most tremendous support. Every evening, she made sure that eve-

24 insider athens | November & December 2013

rything was just perfect for when he came home, so that he always had a sense of what he had achieved”.

Stylish, elegant and full of energy, it was Vivienne Paspaley who enticed the celebrated Sydney architect Harry Seidler to build a new home for the family in Darwin in 1958.

Marilynne’s childhood was spent in that house. She has long expressed her admiration for the isolated tropical town that nurtured her family’s business. “Growing up in Darwin gave me strengths, values and beliefs that I carry with me today in everything I do, no matter where in the world I am. School was a melting pot - Australian, Chinese, Greek, Italian, Dutch and Aborigine. No private schools here - everyone in together. Proximity broke down prejudices. Working together built respect.”

After her father’s death in 1984, Paspaley Pearls was run by her brother Nicholas, now Executive Chairman, and sister Roslynne Bracher.

For twenty years from 1987 Marilynne was Executive Director of Paspaley’s retail arm and oversaw the expansion of sales in Australia to new heights.

A former professional actor, she mixed her thespian calling with her business duties for a time, until juggling the responsibilities of a young family in the early 1990s made competing careers impossible.

The acting skills weren’t lost, merely reapplied. “Retail requires honesty and integrity, as does acting,” she says. “You always give a better performance if its grounded in something real.”

Today she’s still a director and shareholder but has no executive role in the Paspaley Group of Companies - the seven business units that continue to propel Paspaley’s commercial growth. In 2009 the torch was handed to a third generation, when Nicholas Paspaley Junior’s son James became the Group’s Executive Director, with cousins Peter and Michael Bracher, also Executive Directors, overseeing worldwide wholesale distribution.

For the past six years Marilynne’s had other fish to fry. Having been honoured with an Order Of Australia in 2008 for her contribution to the marketing and promotion of pearls and Australian designed jewelry, she’s ventured out to develop luxury hotels. Carrying on the connection to the source of her family’s fortune - Pinctada Hotels and

Luxury

Marilynne Paspaley at McAlpine House in Broome, Western Australia. Photo: John Clutterbuck.

Paspaley diver in the 1940s.

Photo courtesy Paspaley.

Resorts (all of which so far, are located in the north of Western Australia) is perhaps Marilynne’s boldest venture yet. Her move into luxury hospitality began in 2007 with the acquisition of a development in the diamond mining town of Kununurra in the east Kimberley.

Simultaneously Marilynne began the construction of Pinctada Cable Beach Resort and Spa in Broome - the first hotel to have been built in Broome in 20 years. The deliciously exclusive 8-room luxury retreat McAlpine House - also in Broome - is the third property under the Pinctada brand. “The Kimberley is an extraordinary region and I felt it was worthy of a style of hospitality that complemented the nature and uniqueness of the destination,” she says. Her hotels have already won numerous awards.

The move to high-end hospitality is another profound expression of the Paspaley spirit.

“It’s very hard to be still,” says Marilynne, “it’s very hard not to create.” She describes her new role in resort management as “all consuming”, but as a self-confessed workaholic that doesn’t worry her in the slightest. It’s grit that creates a pearl, and that’s something Marilynne Paspaley’s not short of.

Nicholas Paspaley MBE, the Pearling Patriarch In 1919, at age 4, Nicholas Paspalis left the island of Kastellorizo with his family, to Australia where they settled in a tiny town on the northern coast of Western Australia.

The Paspalis were among the few Europeans in the area - along with its traditional Aboriginal inhabitants and Japanese pearl divers.

Nicholas’ father Theodosis bought a share in a pearl lugger, but within five years had died, leaving sons Nicholas and Michael, and sister Mary, to pursue their father’s fledgling interest in pearling.

By 19 years of age Nicholas was the master of his own lugger, his crew diving for natural pearls and the shell of the Pinctada Maxima pearl oyster that supplied much of the then insatiable global demand for mother-of-pearl - used in buttons and fashion accessories.

Always looking for greater opportunity, the family moved to Port Hedland and then Broome. But a combination of the worldwide depres-

Pearl luggers in northern Australia in the 1940s. Photo courtesy Paspaley.

sion of the early 1930s and the war would change Australia’s traditional pearling industry forever.

At the outbreak of WW II, the Australian government impounded all pearling luggers in northern Australia, fearing they could be used by the Japanese in an invasion. The industry that had been reliant both on Japanese divers and Japanese investment would never be the same again. In 1944 Nicholas married Vivienne Lavinia Barry in Sydney, and two years later established the Paspaley Pearling Company. There he increased his fleet to five ships and became the town’s leading pearling master.

The advent of mass-produced plastic buttons by the late 1950s finally put an end to the mother-of-pearl market. As the sea change swept through the pearling industry worldwide, Nick Paspaley turned his attention to the culturing of pearls.

He established the first cultured pearl farm in Australia. Employing Japanese pearl farming methods used to grow the Akoya pearl, the results were at first discouraging, but through exhaustive tests and research over many seasons, Paspaley and his team began to hone the art and science of culturing Australia’s unique South Sea pearls.

Conditions in northern Australia required a different approach; the delicate silver and gold-lipped pearl-oyster Pinctada Maxima - the largest pearl-oyster in the world - needed to be treated with utmost care for it to grow its exquisite, lustrous pearl.

Paspaley’s systems of pearl husbandry involved creating pristine seeding conditions identical to the natural environment, and limiting the oysters’ time out of water, achieving higher survival rates and ever larger, more beautiful pearls.

In the 1970s Nick Paspaley Jr, joined the family business and introduced ever more innovative farming and distribution techniques.

Today the Paspaley Group of companies manages 20 pearl farms along a 2,500 km stretch of coastline in northern and western Australia. It operates nine retail stores and a wholesale arm supplies independent retailers and jewellery brands around the world.

In 1982 Nicholas Paspaley Sr was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire for his services to the pearling industry, business and the community. Two years later he died at the age of 71.

insider athens | November & December 2013 25

Inspirations in

gold

T

he Pentheroudakis boutique has been on Voukourestiou since 1948 when Charalambos Pentheroudakis decided to give up a lucrative position with the Bank of Greece to enter the unchartered territory of jewellery making. There was just one other store on the street, a perfume boutique – a far cry from today’s Voukourestiou Street where big-name designer brands jostle with each other for commercial space in this elegant, pedestrianized alley. Keen on exposing Greek women to the latest trends in jewellery in Europe, (especially as they had been cut off from fashion trends during WWII and Greece’s lengthy Civil War), Charalambos Pentheroudakis took on didactic trips to Basel, Paris and Milan, absorbing the aesthetics of the time, to come back and reproduce his inspirations in Greek gold.

Known for their timeless pieces that exude contemporary style but with a whiff of old glamour, Pentheroudakis’ appeal has endured over the years - its distinctive rings, drop earrings, necklaces and bracelets are still a draw after more than sixty years.

Taking on his father’s lofty legacy in the late ‘70s, Manos Pentheroudakis, who, incidentally like his father studied Finance and worked with Merrill Lynch in Milan, quit the anxiety of the trading floor to embrace the beautiful world of handcrafting jewellery. “I always knew I’d follow my heart into jewellery. I had

26 insider athens | November & December 2013

Luxury

Manos Pentheroudakis in conversation with Athens Insider on the eve of the 65th anniversary of the eponymous Greek jewellery house. even declared it in my high-school graduation yearbook!

Suave and classy, Manos Pentheroudakis is a soft-spoken jeweller who lets his creations do all the talking. And they are indeed conversation-pieces. From goldleaf bracelets to cubic rings, “the driving principle has always been to create an object of beauty through a combination of precision craftsmanship and inspiration from classical Greek design,” says Pentheroudakis. And while most of the designing is done in-house today, he elaborates, “renowned designers like Maurizio Sclafani, Giodoro and the immensely talented Badou have all lent their unique signature to Pentheroudakis’ creations over the years.”

How would one describe a typical wearer of Pentheroudakis jewellery? “Ladies who are elegant and have exquisitely good taste. Our pieces aren’t expensive and aren’t inlaid with precious stones, but are designed for those who like understated sophistication,” he observes.

Carrying on the mantle of the family’s tradition, his children Alexia and Haris, have taken on the roles of designing, interacting with clients and of launching a website for online sales.

Asked what luxury means to him, Pentheroudakis replies, “It is what we ultimately want from life; to cherish a small thing, to enjoy every happy moment.”

Pentheroudakis, 19 Voukourestiou. www.pentheroudakis.gr

insider athens | November & December 2013 27

Business of Six personalities from the luxury sector – Tim Ananiadis of the Starwood Group of Hotels, Constantin Tzembelicos of K2Smart Jets, George Papalexis of Zolotas, Areti Darma of

W

e are at the recently refursbished Tudor Hall restaurant at the Hotel King George – the setting exudes an air of understated elegance and the warmth of a glorious sunny October afternoon reminds one why we fell in love with this country in the first place. With the sun catching specks off the ancient marble columns of the Acropolis, the moment seems to capture the essence of luxury, an experience to be cherished. As if on cue, breaking that indulgent reverie, are the persistent cries of demonstrators below, bringing us crashing down to the ground realities of promoting luxury in the Greek environment.

Smiling indulgently at the scene enfolding at Syntagma square, Areti Darma, PR Manager at Louis Vuitton, observes, “This is the Greek paradox we have to deal with.” With the merger of the Kifissia store with the Athens store and with the upcoming closure of the Cyprus scheduled for end-December, Darma states that the strategy at Louis Vuitton has been to consolidate business across three stores in Greece; the flagship store on Voukourestiou and the stores in Thessaloniki and Mykonos. Darma believes that luxury shopping has little to do with consumerism and a lot to do with good taste. “By buying something luxurious, customers are displaying not just their wealth but their refinement. That is why luxury cannot be sold as consumerism but as discernment.” Building on that principle, Darma insists that at luxury stores like Louis Vuitton, the goal is not just the purchase but the sales experience once a shopper walks into the boutique. “We focus a lot on our clientele and keep our loyal customers satisfied to make them feel really comfortable and unique. For us, building relationships is the key point of our strategy.”

28 insider athens | November & December 2013

Lunch Date

Louis Vuitton, Larry Sakellariou of Shiseido and Danae Salepoula, producer of the Business of Luxury Conference on November 21, share their insights on the luxury market in Greece with Sudha Nair-Iliades Tim Ananiadis, who oversees both the Hotel Grande Bretagne and the Hotel King George, as the General Manager for Starwood Hotels in Greece, has had to bear the brunt of raucous demonstrations firsthand. Trying to sell a luxury experience while megaphones screech in the background has not been an easy challenge, but Ananiadis insists that even guests who stayed at the hotel at the worst of the crisis “enjoyed a unique experience.”

He continues,“A luxury experience is something that simply makes a guest feel good or special. Luxury in a hotel goes beyond the physical presence and amenities and extends to the all important levels of service. Luxury is the total package. It has to make the guest believe that it’s what he deserves. It is when needs and desires are anticipated and fulfilled even before being realized to the extent that they become a requirement.” But the crisis has taken its toll on the luxury market in Greece. Ananiadis observes that for a country that loved the good things in life, luxury has now become a dirty word and Athenians fear a ‘moral backlash’ for being seen in luxury settings, buying exclusive brands. Still, he believes there is room for Greece to become a Luxury Destination, not as a country as a whole, but certainly in small, boutique, unique segments, providing unforgettable settings, service and experience.

Greek-Canadian Constantine Tzembelicos of K2 SmartJets might seem to operate a business perched several feet above ground reality, but he is intrigued at the attitude Greeks have towards luxury. “In the US, luxury is aspirational, a well-deserved indulgence.” “In the business aviation sector,” he elaborates, “a jet is a productive business tool, not an extravagance. Time is the greatest luxury. In today’s non-stop world, every second counts. When planning time away, anything that can help to get us where we’re going quickly and easily is incredibly valuable. This is evident in the increasing popularity of private aviation to just up and leave when you want. What’s more luxurious than that?”

Tzembelicos is optimistic; he has seen his high potential clientele grow steadily, as Greece becomes more known for having the capacity to offer personalized transportation. So convinced is he of the growth prospects in this sector that he plans to launch sea-planes in spring 2014.

George Papalexis, the young CEO at the helm of one of Greece’s most recognizable heritage brands, Zolotas, believes that luxury, by definition, must radiate light (luxe). It has to be the best of whatever it represents. It’s a word that raises people’s expectations. You pay for recognition, but probably the most important thing it represents is delivery on the promise of the brand’s name.” Especially in the intri-

insider athens | November & December 2013 29

cate business of jewellery-making, luxury is defined by attention to detail and meticulous workmanship, but also by who its ambassadors are.” Zolotas’ creations have adorned the necks and slender limbs of celebrities like Liz Taylor and Jackie O in the ‘60s to Catherine Deneuve and Queen Noor in recent times. Having said that, Papalexis believes that the definition of luxury has changed from exclusion to “elegance without arrogance” and concurs that ‘accessible luxury’ is the new buzzword. It is an apt one, especially during the crisis when consumers have moved away from conspicuous consumption towards consumption with a consciousness.

The world of beauty and cosmetics exudes luxury as few sectors do.

Bright red lips and long, curled-up eyelashes have been images of desirable glamour for centuries and brands such as Shiseido have capitalized on 140 years of cutting-edge skincare and colour technology to create beauty products and fragrances for men and women. Larry Sakellariou, CEO of Shiseido in Greece believes that Greece has all the potential to become a luxury cosmetics shopping destination. The Canary Islands has a lot less to offer in terms of sights and natural beauty, but has smartly marketed itself as a mecca for cosmetics shoppers. Sakellariou continues, “I agree with Areti Darma that the key to luxury sales is customer service and loyalty programmes. And often, all it takes is a smile.” For Sakellariou, in a crisis “the challenge lies in making every customer a brand ambassador.”

Danae Salepoula exudes her natural optimism when she declares that in order for the future of Greek luxury brands to be secure, they have to be extrovert and focus on true, authentic values”. She adds, “As a country, Greece has all the makings of a luxury destination.”In a more cacophonous, relentlessly always-on world, people will look for sanctuary. We will continue to look for experiences that are surprising, exotic and above all authentic.” Greece, beyond its sun, sea and beauty, has something unique to offer: the Greek’s innate ability to enjoy and share small pleasures; gastronomy, for instance, is such a solid pillar to work on.” She continues, “Luxury reflects what we are trying to escape. In a world that grows more complex we will put more value on the absolute luxury of good taste, elegant simplicity, heritage and creativity: Greek values that we should all share and cherish.”

30 insider athens | November & December 2013

So does Greece have the makings of a luxury destination?

Areti Darmas: We need a change in mind-set. Last summer Louis Vuitton organized a high-profile publicity event with international journalists on a Greek island and our key focus was not only to present the country but also to support the local economy. We came across a few difficulties but when Greeks are united, no one can beat them.

Tim Ananiadis: You cannot market all of Greece as a luxury destination. But there are luxury destinations within Greece. We don’t need to create new luxury destinations, just protect and take care of the brands we already have. The problem with a luxury destination is that you need to have the infrastructure to follow your luxury destination.

Consantin Tzembelicos: I agree. The experience is not just the destination. You need to take care of all the steps along the way, as they are part of the experience too. In my business, we offer the promise of ‘letting you fly wherever, whenever’ but when during summer some popular island airports shut down at 3 in the afternoon, there is little we can do!

George Papalexis: The key lies in creating synergies with other luxury partners who share similar values and in creating an intuitive association of Greece with the ‘good life’.

Larry Sakellariou: I think Greece has all the potential to market itself better. What is needed is a bit of direction and consistent strategy to see it through.

Danae Saleopoula: I think Greeks have an innate sense of filoxenia and appreciation of luxury. What could be more luxurious than this – glorious sunshine on a winter day, exquisite food and wine and good company, talking about the bright side of good things in life.

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insider athens | November & December 2013 31

Agora

New bicycle

by Hermès, available upon request

for her Zolotas Charm 2014, available at Zolotas store and at www.zolotas.gr

Hermès Hats in Corduroy and Deerskin, available at Hermès

Louis Vuitton Plastron Ziggy necklace, available at Louis Vuitton

Swarovski Louise Bangle, available at attica and at Swarovski Boutique

Cerruti umbrella, available at Ritzi

Gifts galore!

for him

Chopard Superfast Cufflinks available at Chopard

Insider picks an eclectic selection of groovy gifts guaranteed to elicit smiling faces Baccorosa Vino Spumante, available at Cellier

for the house

Omega SE198 Seamaster AT 15000 gauss available at Omega

Maestria Krups Rosso, available at Nespresso Boutiques and at www.nespresso.gr

Tommy Hilfiger Lesley Scarf, available at attica

Fancy glass set, available at Zara Home

32 insider athens | November & December 2013

• attica attica CityLink, Panepistimiou 9, Athens, Tel: 211 1802600 attica Golden Hall, Kifissias 37A, Maroussi, Tel: 211 1814000 • Cellier Kriezotou 1d, Syntagma, Tel: 210.361.0040, Kifisias 369, Kifissia, Tel: 210.801.8756 • Chopard Stadiou 2 & Vas. Georgiou, Tel: 210.325.0555• Hermès Voukourestiou 1, Athens, Tel: 210 3233715 • Louis Vuitton Voukourestiou 19, Athens, Tel: 210 3613938 • Nespresso Boutiques Patriarchou Ioakeim 13-15, Kolonaki, Kifissias 168, Neo Psichiko, Levidou 11, Kifisia • Notos Galleries Stadiou & Aiolou, Tel: 210 3245811 • Omega Voukourestiou 2, Tel: 210.322.7682• Ritzi 17 Kanari & 1 Solonos, Kolonaki, Tel: 210 3390180 • Swarovski Boutique Ermou 18, Athens, Tel: 210 3249645 • Zara Home Stadiou 32, Athens, Tel: 210 3223210, Golden Hall, Kifissias 37A, Maroussi, Tel: 210 6844306, Metaxa 36, Glyfada, Tel: 210 8945150 • Zolotas Panepistimiou 10, Tel: 210 3601272

Cigar lounge at Alexander’s Bar, Grande Bretagne

Holy smoke!

Publisher Christos Zambounis, always cuts a flamboyant figure, with a cigar wedged between his lips, as he navigates his way through Athenian soirées. The author of a definitive guide on cigars, Zambounis dwells on his favourite subject at one of the few sanctuaries for cigar afficionados in the city: Alexander’s Bar at the Grande Bretagne.

C Christos Zambounis Photo Credits: Kostas Bekas

34 insider athens | November & December 2013

hristos Zambounis strides past the bar, lined with a choice selection of the finest single malts and cognacs, acknowledging Marios, the bartender on duty while lighting up his cigar with a long match. It is just past six in the evening, so Zambounis forgoes the offer of a McCallan and settles for tonic water with lemon.

Blowing smoke rings into the rarefied air of the GB courtyard, he settles in for a snapshot interview on his world of cigars.

Close encounters

How and when did you first smoke a cigar?

I have never smoked a cigarette in my life but I smoked my first cigar when I was 20, in New York. I’m eternally grateful to my friend and despise him in equal measure for having introduced me to cigars and ruining me financially!

From the thighs of a Cuban virgin to the lips of a capitalist pig was how Castro described cigars – what is your description?

That is an absolute myth from Bizet’s Carmen that cigars were rolled on the thighs of Cuban women. It was on my visit to Cuba to write my book and to research on Havana cigars that I discovered that Cuban cigars were rolled on the desk of each torcedor and not on their thighs, as widely believed! I’d describe a cigar with the words of a fanatic smoker, Rudyard Kipling, “A woman is only a woman, but a good cigar is a smoke.”

What is it about a cigar that is so special and different from an ordinary smoke?

It is like Catherine Deneuve in Les parapluies de Cherbourg; like Brigitte Bardot in Jean Luc Godard’s Les Mépris; like Scarlet Johansson in Match Point!

to source it from abroad (very likely from a basement in the UK), by 1999, there were more stores in Athens you could buy cigars than milk for your baby! Everyone from roadside kiosks to supermarkets stocked them.

How are cigar smokers perceived?

It is funny that since the era of the silent cinema, cigars have been associated with crude and fat capitalists. This is a paradoxical perception as there are bad people who do not smoke cigars and good ones who do. Cigars, like good wine, are unique products that are exclusively hand-crafted and target those who love indulgence. You may skip three hamburgers and smoke a cigar and derive ten-fold satisfaction.

What accompanies a cigar best?

A good cigar is best accompanied with single malts, and of course, with cognac. It is also good after a coffee or with rum but it definitely should not be paired with white spirits like vodka, ouzo and tsipouro.

Tell us a bit about your definitive guide to cigars.

I read a dialogue between Marx and Engels. Marx wrote, “I wonder if the money we earn from our book Das Kapital will cover my costs for the cigars I smoked while writing the book…” It applies to me too! My book, Havana Cigars, was published in 2000 by Fereniki and is the only book of its kind in Greek.

Have you ever smoked a Greek cigar?

Of course! I used to write a column on cigars in Status (magazine).

That was at a time when there were For a while Greeks believed that ‘true democracy was a state no Greeks without cigars dangling when we could all smoke cigars, drive Porsche Cayennes and off their lips! The first production from Elassona (near Larissa) sent have villas in Mykonos.’ Cigars here were more expensive than me their cigars for degustation. in Switzerland! Now only the true aficionados remain.

How were they? I’ll be honest. The climatic conditions in Cuba, its terroir cannot be touched by even How would you describe the Cigar Lounge at Alexander’s Bar at neighbouring Dominican Republic, so Larissa was a far cry. It was an Grande Bretagne? ambitious initiative and it made sense as Greece has a strong tradition The GB has always been a destination where we could find cigars of in tobacco. In any case, I’m not sure they have continued with it. But good quality and Alexander’s Bar has an undeniably refined décor to it was an accessible smoke, priced at 3 to 4 euros instead of around enjoy a smoke. A warmly hued interior with tables out in the open, it 20 euros for a Cuban cigar. While those of us who smoked cigars had is a sanctuary, a refuge in the heart of Athens.

insider athens | November & December 2013 35

The Grand Dame of

festivity Eleni Kefalopoulou decants the mysteries of the noblest of wines and its ascent to its exalted position as the toast of choice for special occasions

W

hat unites Formula 1, Winston Churchill, Mark Twain, James Bond, U2 and the Cannes Film Festival? Champagne of course, the most noble and luxurious drink in the world. This is the only wine which, already for centuries, is synonymous with celebration, luxury and power.

The story begins in the 17th century in the picturesque area of Champagne, in northern France, when a light rose, almost sparkling, wine from Pinot Noir grapes was first produced. The new wine was soon embraced by the aristocracy in London. Later, Dom Perignon, a Benedictine monk, discovered that a second fermentation in the bottle can result in a permanent sparkling wine. But his biggest contribution to the production of champagne was the selection of the best matching varieties, the choice of blends and the improvement of grape cultivation. It was his idea to use bottles made of thick glass, that can stand the pressure and he was the first to produce white wine out of red varieties.

Until the 19th century the production of champagne amounted to just a few thousands bottles. The commercial success came later, in the middle of the 19th century, when the oenologist of Veuve Clicquot, with the support of the restless Madame Cliquot, improved the champenoise method. The triumph of this method was later adopted by the estates of Krug, Bollinger, Roederer and Deutz.

“Too much is bad, only too much champagne is good”

Today, champagne is produced by the same traditional method. After the first fermentation in big tanks, the champagne maker creates the blend. Three grape varieties can be used: Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay. Harvests from different years can be mixed only in undated bottles of champagne. The wine is bottled with some added sugar and the bottles are stored head down and twisted every day so that the yeast sediment gathers near the neck of the bottle. Then the bottle is frozen and the sediment shoots out. After that the bottle is filled with a mixture of the initial wine and sugar.

But champagne is not unique only because of its long lasting, expensive production method. Champagne makers must respect at least 35 rules during the cultivation of grapes including the size of vines, the distance between them, harvesting by hand, specific days of harvesting, etc. For this reason, only wines produced in the region of Champagne, following this specific process, can claim the name “champagne”, the rest is just sparkling wine.

“Too much is bad, only too much champagne is good” Mark Twain used to say and he

36 insider athens | November & December 2013

Celebration

6

was not the only admirer of the charming bubbles. The Russian Tzars It matches perfectly with shellfish and seafood, poultry and game with used to drink Cristal by Roereder, Napoleon’s favourite was Jacques- light sauces, and with soft cheeses like the Swiss Gruyere. Strong son and Winston Churchill preferred a glass of Pol Roger. What Churchill told his soldiers The bottle should open with a soft plop like “the sigh of before leaving for the French front was very a naughty Duchess.” The simple rule is: the bigger the revealing: “Gentlemen, it’s not only for France we are fighting for, it’s also for Champagne.” bang, the less the pleasure of drinking.

In fact, the German occupation had stopped all French exports to the UK, including that of champagne – the spirit of tastes of caviar, smoked cheese and fish need a vintage champagne, joy and festivity. while foie gras and Asian cuisine go well with a demi-sec champagne.

Champagne is the ideal companion of fruits, like strawberries, fine Champagne in style sweets and sorbets.

It is the acidity that determines champagne’s quality, as well as the size of the bubbles. The bubbles should be small, emerging slowly one after another, creating fine rows of strings. This shows that the fermentation process was slow and the maturing in the bottle was perfect.

Serving champagne in a flute glass is not only an aesthetic requirement. This glass also helps the emerging of the bubbles and keeps the aromas on the surface.

The glass should be filled a little more than the half so that there is enough space to reveal the aromas of the champagne.

The right serving temperature is 6-9o C. The bottle should be kept in the refrigerator 3-4 hours before uncorking it, but not more and never in the freezing department because the taste might get funny.

The bottle should open with a soft plop like “the sigh of a naughty Duchess.” The simple rule is: the bigger the bang, the less the pleasure of drinking.

Depending on the amount of added sugar a champagne can be extra brut, brut, extra dry, sec and demi-sec.

Champagne can be served as an aperitif, but it can also be the main wine during a dinner.

Champagne is a unique and precious wine that demands our respect.

Choose any of the following champagnes, that you can easily find in Greek cellars and let yourself feel like a movie star. May the bubbles be with you.

Taittinger Brut. Straw-like colour, fine bubbles and fruits aromas, especially peach, vanilla and white flowers. Harmonious in the mouthwith hints of honey.

Louis Roederer Brut premiere. Pale yellow colour, persistent bubbles and aromas of fruits, almonds and baked bread.

Krug Brut Grand Cuvee NV. This extraordinary champagne combines ten different harvests and 47 wines from 25 villages. Excellent aromas of brioche, nuts and coffee.

Deutz Brut classic. Shining yellow colour and vivid bubbles. This champagne is very active, fresh and reveals complex aromas.

Jacquesson Grand Vin 1996. A full-bodied champagne, from the House that was Napoleon’s favourite, with fine bubbles and the most wonderful aromas of honey and roses.

Bollinger Extra Brut. An excellent champagne from the House that still uses barrels for fermentation. Well balanced, rich but with a fresh touch, with aromas of biscuit, fruit, honey and ginger.

insider athens | November & December 2013 37

Around Greece

Photo credit

mi s: Julia Kli

in 222 stays Travel-writer Jacoline Vinke has had the laborious assignment of lounging by pools, relaxing in hammams, savouring meals and then noting it all down in her definitive guide to 222 quaint little hotels in Greece. She recovers from the exertion of it all to recommend her favourite boutique hotels for the festive season.

Jacoline, you have been an ambassador for small, family-run hotels in the far corners of Greece since your first book, Great Small Hotels in Greece, was published in 2002. Have you noticed a huge change in the quality and number of little, charming hotels since?

Yes, both in terms of quantity and of quality. It’s almost 15 years since I first got the idea of writing about small hotels in Greece and made a list of places with charm I could think of. No more than ten or so. After some years of research and travelling, I managed to come up with a total of 113 for my first book, but I wasn’t as selective as I am now. For the latest book, which includes 222 beautiful little places to stay, I travelled to almost every corner of the country, and I’ve been amazed how the quality has gone up. I am always so impressed by the creativity that has been poured into many hotels. Every time I think I’ve seen it all, I discover yet another place that completely awes me.

What is it that you look for in a hotel?

I don’t have rules. It’s simple. I look for places I like and that I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend to friends.

The choices are personal and totally subjective. Something has to impress me. A historic building that has been beautifully restored, creative ‘interior design’, comfortable bedrooms that do not make you feel like you’re staying in a hotel, a breathtaking location, warm, nice owners, a fantastic breakfast, a décor with ‘personal touches’, you name it. Usually it is a combination. I’m not looking for perfection, but nothing should be seriously wrong. A beautiful hotel where you get a welcome without smiles, and you feel like a customer rather than a guest? An impressive old building, but atrociously done inside? Not for me.

Could you help us discover a couple of obscure destinations that have not yet appeared on the tourist’s radar?

I don’t think there is any obscure destination in this beautiful country! But there is always something new to discover. ‘My’ hotels often help putting small islands, remote areas or unknown traditional villages on the map, and this is how I also have discovered quite a few hidden corners in Greece. Of course I have hotels on islands like Corfu, Mykonos, Santorini and Rhodes in the book, but the majority of places included are not so much on the beaten tourist track.

Two recommendations for the festive season?

Only two? I am sure that you would have a wonderful time in any of the places from my book that stay open in the winter. But if you want to a combination of history, beauty, luxury and, why not, a spa, the two that immediately come to my mind are Imaret and Kinsterna.

The book “Jacoline’s Small Hotels in Greece” is available at Papasotiriou bookstores.

Visit: www.smallhotelsingreece.com or www.facebook.com/SmallHotelsinGreece or order the book at www.papasotiriou.gr/product/jacolines-small-hotels-in-greece

38 insider athens | November & December 2013

Travel j9

This must be one of Greece’s most fascinating hotels: a place full of history, a haven of easy-going luxury and rural tourism raised to a whole new level. Set on a hillside covered with olive groves and vineyards, and with distant views to the medieval castle rock of Monemvasia, this fortified manor house dates back to the 13th century and its architecture reveals strong Byzantine, Ottoman and Venetian influences. Immaculately restored by a team of engineers (including owner Antonis Sgardelis), architects and designers, its historical character is celebrated in every detail, and jazzed up by some striking modern design elements. Spring water snakes through the property from its source, through the building, into the partially covered old cistern in the central terrace, and on towards a long L-shaped pool surrounded by fruit trees. With three-dimensional lace stencilling on the walls, each one of the 27 rooms and suites impresses in its own way. In the oldest parts of the property, cosy “Byzantine” rooms have dome-shaped ceilings; one has an original Ottoman fireplace and another an old dungeon! I had a top-floor suite with far-reaching vistas, an incredibly comfortable bed and a luxurious marble bathroom. I was treated with genuine friendliness and served fantastic food with organic vegetables harvested from the hotel’s gardens, virgin oil pressed from its olives, and wine from the Kinsterna vineyards. I felt totally spoiled – and that was without even trying the top-notch spa!

Kinsterna

Open: All year, except for a short period during the winter. Accommodation: 27 rooms and suites Also: outdoor swimming pool, terraces, spa, massage, hammam, rural activities. Room rates: From €139 per night, with breakfast. Directions: From Monemvasia follow signs for Neapolis then, after about 4 km, for Agios Stefanos.

1.5 km further on, turn right at the sign for Kinsterna Hotel & Spa. Ag. Stefanos, Monemvasia, 23070 Lakonia, Tel. 27320-66300, www.kinsternahotel.gr

Words do not do justice to the beauty of this converted seminary where in the early 19th century boys studied the Koran. Built by the Egyptian Pasha Mohamed Ali in 1817 (it was a gift to his birth town), the holy school operated up to the early 20th century. Later it became a shelter for Greek refugees from Asia Minor, but it fell into disrepair. Now impressively restored, it has regained its former glory.

A tour of the hotel will lead you through peaceful inner courtyards, one with an immensely high pine tree overgrown with wisteria flanking a pool and two other courtyards with herb gardens, long archways leading past the old cells, a high-domed reading room, an elegant sitting room, an old food storage room, the hammam, and a cistern where you can swim by candlelight. Bedrooms are in the converted old cells and have dome-shaped ceilings, subdued lighting, elegant furniture, a delicately oriental decoration and sensuous bathrooms, and give a profound feeling of comfort. Service, while smooth and efficient, is ever so discreet and the luxury aspect, while omni-present, is of the unobtrusive, nearly invisible kind. Outside, the historical district and the castle of Kavala are on one side, and the commercial port is on the other. I felt no desire to go and explore. I was captured by the tranquillity and subtle oriental spiritualism permeating the Imaret.

Imaret

Imaret Photo credits: Christos Drazos

Open: Normally all year. Accommodation: 26 double rooms and suites Also: Candle-lit indoor pool, hammam, massage.

Room rates: From €340 per night, breakfast not incl. Directions: From Kavala, follow the port. towards the Kastro.

6 Theodorou Poulidou, 65110 Kavala, Tel. 2510-620151, www.imaret.gr

Kinsterna Photo credits: Julia Klimi

insider athens | November & December 2013 39

Live the experience

The Life Gallery.

A getaway for the senses.

A break within the city.

A Life experience. bluegr LIFE GALLERY athens

40 insider athens | November & December 2013

An ideal getaway for the festive season, The Life Gallery’s unique character is reflected in little gestures and grand artworks.

Michelin-starred chef Lefteris Lazarou puts a celebratory spin on his cuisine at the kool life restaurant with a festive menu with wonders caught from the depths of the Aegean and the richness of the Greek terroir.

To unwind, the Ananea Spa by Orloff offers a complete aquatic circuit with jacuzzi, hammam and sauna. The beautiful mosaic-walled and led-lighted hamam accommodates up to six persons for an unforgettable Oriental ritual of deep cleansing.

GlamGlow Youthmud Tinglexfoliate Treatment for a radiant and glowing skin.

Available at Sephora.

Korres Vintage Red Collection includes super-sized Twist Lipsticks and limited edition nail colours. Available at Korres.

Lancôme Eau de Parfum La Vie est Belle L’Edition Noel blends the nobility of iris, essence of Sambac jasmine and orange blossom and the depth of patchouli. The neck of the bottle is decorated with six pearly grey organza wings, symbols of freedom and happiness. Available at Notos Galleries and Hondos Center.

Givenchy Ondulations D’Or Christmas and limited edition eyeshadow of black and gold fuse gives sparkle to your look. Available at Notos Galleries.

Festive fantasies As the countdown to the holiday season begins, get ready to treat yourself and dear ones with Insider’s choice of beauty essentials

Sally Hansen Salon Manicure Sequin Overcoat for festive nights. Available at Sephora from December 2013.

42 insider athens | November & December 2013

La Petite Robe Noire Collector’s Limited Xmas Edition EDP designed

by Kuntzel+Deygas and inspired by their new film for Guerlain.

Beauty Hypoallergenic and delicately perfumed L’Occitane Bonne Mere Soap TrioChristmas set. Available at L’ Occitane store.

MAC Stroke of Midnight Face Palette.

Available at MAC stores.

Benefit limited ‘Countdown to love’ set contains 24 different beauty products, from primer to lip gloss, for the 24 days till Christmas. Available at Sephora.

L’Oreal Professionnel Mythic Oil Le Parfum for your hair (and body too).

Available exclusively at hair salons.

YSL Mascara Volume Effets Faux Cils for impressive eyelashes.

Viktor&Rolf share the magic of Christmas with a sparkling new limited edition of Flowerbomb wrapped up with a beautiful bow. Available at attica.

20% Off! Cut this coupon & avail of 20% off on all exclusive brands at Sephora’s stores in Greece.

This Roger & Gallet Rose Imaginaire Christmas set includes an Eau de Toilette, a shower gel and a body lotion. Available at drugstores.

• attica: CityLink Panepistimiou 9, 211 1802600, Kifissias Ave 37A, Maroussi, 211 1814000 • Hondos Center: Omonia Square 4, 210 5282800, Pentelis Ave 4, Halandri, 210 6851166-7 • Korres: Ermou 4 & Nikis, Syntagma, 210 3210054 • L’Occitane: Solonos 25, Kolonaki, 210 3613882, The Mall Athens, 210 6300044 • M.A.C.: Ermou 44 & Evangelistrias, 210 3258260 • Notosgalleries: Stadiou & Aiolou, 210 3245811 • Sephora: Ermou 24, 210 3313167, A. Metaxa 33-35, Glyfada, 210 8943378

insider athens | November & December 2013 43

REVENGE 3

Programming Highlights November & December

PREMIERE: Thursday 19/12 @ 21.50

NEW SEASONS

©ABC Studios

GREY’S ANATOMY 10

Created by Mike Kelley, ‘Revenge’ stars 2012 Golden Globe nominee for Outstanding Lead Actress in a TV Drama, Madeleine Stowe (Victoria Grayson) and Emily Van Camp (Emily Thorne).

Emily Thorne is a woman with just one endgame - REVENGE. Victoria Grayson is the glamorous matriarch of the Grayson family and reigning Queen of the Hamptons. In the third season premiere, Emily Thorne’s course of revenge is renewed while the return of Victoria Grayson’s son brings changes and complications to the all-powerful family.

PREMIERE: Wednesday 27/11 @ 21:00 One of the most successful series in US television history returns for its 10th chapter. The medical drama follows the personal and professional lives of doctors Meredith Grey (Ellen Pompeo), Christina Yang(Sandra Oh), and Derek Shepard (Patrick Dempsey) at Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital in Seattle. Produced by Shonda Rhimes (Scandal, Private Practice), Betsy Beers, and Mark Gordon, ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ has won a number of awards including twentyfive Primetime Emmy nominations and ten Golden Globe nominations since its first season premiered. This season is to celebrate the 200th overall episode of the series.

GLEE 4

©ABC Studios

NEW SERIES

PREMIERE: Tuesday 5/11 @ 21.50

ANTHONY BOURDAIN: THE LAYOVER

Created and executively produced by Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk, ‘Glee’ is a musical comedy that follows a hopeful teacher who attempts to save McKinley High’s glee club from obscurity while helping a group of talented kids realize their true star potential. Starring Jane Lynch as Sue Sylvester, Lea Michele as Rachel Barry, and Matthew Morrison as Will Schuester, ‘Glee’ is a 35-time Emmy Award nominee and sixtime winner across all categories.

PREMIERE: Thursday 14/11 and every Wednesday and Thursday @ 18.30

MASTERCHEF 4 PREMIERE: Monday 18/11 and every Monday and Tuesday @ 18.30 The much anticipated ‘Masterchef 4’ season is finally here and the competition is guaranteed to be fierce! Only a handful will get the chance to prove themselves to three of the biggest names in the culinary world: Gordon Ramsay, Graham Elliot and Joe Bastianich.

And only one will win $250,000, author their own cookbook and be crowned America’s next MasterChef.

CASTLE 6

Chef, author, and television persona Anthony Bourdain follows the success of his series “No Reservations” with a new high octane travel and cooking series, ‘The Layover’. Viewers get a ringside seat as Bourdain hunts for local intelligence and explores the essential “must see” places, people and foods in locations throughout the US, Asia and Europe.

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL PROGRAMMING

JAMIE’S BEST EVER CHRISTMAS PREMIERE: Thursday 19/12 @ 18.30 In the two part series, Jamie’s Best Ever Christmas, Jamie’s girls, Poppy and Daisy, take over from their Dad as they bring together some of their favourite recipes. Episode one sets you up for a stress-free Christmas Day while episode two focuses on delicious festive food options like jerk ham and clementine jelly, along with lovely ideas for using up all those inevitable leftovers.

PREMIERE: Wednesday 11/12 @ 21.50

Christmas Programming Block

Richard Castle (Nathan Filion) - mystery novelist and divorced father and bright and aggressive NYPD Detective Kate Beckett (Stana Katic), investigate strange homicides in New York, combining Castle’s writer intuition and Beckett’s creative detective work. After multiple seasons of “will they” or “won’t they”, Castle and Beckett finally give into their feelings towards each other. In the Season 6 Premiere of “Castle,” Castle and Beckett will deal with the consequences of their decisions against the backdrop of a high-stakes investigation.

Thursday 24/12 @ 21.00 Wednesday 25/12 @ 08.10 & 13.45

44 insider athens | November & December 2013

A potpourri of some of the best Christmas and holiday themed episodes from your favorite series! Characters from ‘Glee’, ‘Castle’, ‘New Girl’, ‘Happy Endings’, ‘Modern Family’, ‘The Neighbors’, ‘Jamie’s Best Ever Christmas’ will ‘deck the halls with boughs of holly’ and give you a non-stop three hour Christmas themed holiday overdose full of fun, laughter, mystery, and music!

NEW SERIES December fox PREMIERE: Thursday 12/12 @ 21.30

NEW SEASONS

©TCFTD

AMERICAN HORROR STORY: COVEN PREMIERE: Sunday 17/11 @ 23.30

Joss Whedon, the creative genius behind “Marvel’s The Avengers,” one of the highest grossing films of all time, and of the iconic television series “Buffy The Vampire Slayer,” creates “Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.,” a dynamic, action-packed onehour drama that brings back Agent Phil Coulson (Clark Gregg) to lead a team of highly skilled S.H.I.E.L.D. (Strategic Homeland Intervention Enforcement and Logistics Division) agents to investigate extra-normal and super human people and events worldwide. In the premiere episode, “Pilot,” the group’s first assignment together as a team finds them trying to track down an ordinary man who has gained extraordinary powers that could have devastating consequences!

The third chapter of the Emmy Award winning series, ‘American Horror Story: Coven’, kicks off with its season premiere on Sunday, November 17, 2013! Joining the already star studded cast will be Hollywood favorites Kathy Bates, Emma Roberts, Gabourey Sidibe, Angela Bassett, Patti LuPone and Grey Damon! Vindicating fan speculation, the horror series’ latest go-round will revolve around witches with Bates and Jessica Lange playing key roles.

WHITE COLLAR 4 PREMIERE: Friday 15/11 @ 21.30 with two back to back fresh episodes.

‘White Collar’ is a police procedural comedy/drama about the unlikely partnership between a con artist Neal Caffrey (Matt Bomer) and an FBI agent Peter(Tim Dekay). The cast is completed by Willie Garson as Mozzie, an old friend of Caffrey’s who occasionally aids the FBI in their investigations; Tiffani Amber Thiesen as Elizabeth Burke, Peter’s ever-faithful wife.

The fourth season kicks off where last season’s cliffhanger ended: with Neal Caffrey (Bomer) on the lam! ©ABC Studios

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL

HOMELAND 3 MARATHON ©TCFTD

ELEMENTARY 2 PREMIERE: Tuesday 10/12 @ 21.30 ‘Elementary’ stars Jonny Lee Miller as detective Sherlock Holmes and Lucy Liu as Dr. Joan Watson in a modern-day drama about a crime-solving duo that cracks the NYPD’s most impossible cases. In the second season premiere episode, Holmes and Watson travel to London to help track down an old mentor and investigate an unsolved mystery. Meanwhile Mycroft Holmes (Rhys Ifans), Sherlock’s estranged brother, reunites with Sherlock and reveals some secrets of his own!

Programming Highlights November & December

MARVEL’S AGENTS OF S.H.I.E.L.D.

MARATHON: Tuesday 24/12 @ 21.30 with 6 episodes back-to-back Wednesday 25/12 @ 21.30 with 6 episodes back-to-back On Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, fresh off the season finale of ‘Homeland 3’ with a marathon. Widely regarded as one of the best TV series of all time, Season 3 opens during the aftermath of the horrific terror attack that decimated the U.S. intelligence apparatus, and prompted a global manhunt for the world’s most wanted terrorist – Nick Brody (Damian Lewis).

As Carrie (Claire Danes) and Saul (Mandy Patinkin) begin to pick up the pieces of their shattered professional and personal lives, they are swept up in the political and media firestorm surrounding the terror attack.

insider athens | November & December 2013 45

The man who knows

no limits

Photo credits: NewSports.eu

Dean Karnazes, the Greek-American ultra-marathoner who defies all human odds runs for the first-time at the Navarino Challenge.

46 insider athens | November & December 2013

Sports Dean, you’re an athlete that puts on a ‘shock and awe’ production every time you run. How and when did you take to running marathons and ultra-marathons?

I first ran a marathon when I was just 14-years old, much to the amazement of onlookers. But then I stopped running completely. I didn’t start running again until my 30th birthday, when I found myself in a nightclub with some friends - doing what you do on your 30th

0Fξ

the other hand is ceaseless. I have learned how to tap into the eternal reserves of the human spirit.

You’ve often been compared to Greek hero Pheidippides, the original marathon-runner who simply refused to give up. How special was it for you to come down to Greece and run in the first ever Navarino Challenge in your native Arcadia?

It was a spiritual experience. Never have I felt so natural as I did when running in my ancestral homeland. Everything felt perfect in a mystical actually modified Emilio Zatopek’s quote when way that I cannot possibly put into words. It was the perfect moment for me, and something I will wrote: “If you want to run a race, run 100 metres, never forget.

I I if you want to live an experience, run a marathon, if you want to talk to God, run an ultra.” birthday (i.e., drinking heavily) - when I felt this primitive urge to leave. “What?” they questioned, “It’s only 11 o’clock; let’s have another shot of Tequila.” Instead, I walked out of the nightclub and ran 30-miles to celebrate my 30th birthday. I ran straight through the night and it was the first time I’d run in over a decade. It almost killed me, but I kept going.

Emilio Zatopek said, “If you want to run a race, run the 100 metres, if you want to live an experience, run the marathon.”

With probably the most outstanding collection of experiences and record-breaking runs any athlete could dream of, which was the most poignant … and which one was the most physically challenging?

I actually modified Emilio Zatopek’s quote when I wrote: “If you want to run a race, run 100 metres, if you want to live an experience, run a marathon, if you want to talk to God, run an ultra.”

The ultra-marathon is the ultimate distance. As for the most physically challenging, I would have to say competing in the Atacama Desert race was probably the toughest. The race is 250 kilometers long and it takes place in the driest place on the planet. Competitors are required to carry all of their necessary provisions for the 6-day duration. Temperatures crest 100 degrees Fahrenheit during the day, and are below freezing at night. I ended up winning the race, but I don’t say that. I say that I, “survived the fastest.” Because in those remote and extreme conditions it was more about survival than anything else. Although I have raced and competed on all 7 Continents of earth, in some of the most gruelling ultramarathons on the planet, by far my most poignant moment was running a 10 kilometer race with my daughter, Alexandria, on her tenth birthday. Nothing will ever surpass that moment.

How do you push your physical and mental limits to the extreme defying logic and human physiological thresholds?

Half of what I do is physical, but the most import part is mental. I train and condition my body rigorously for the physical challenges I face, but the human body can only carry you so far. The human psyche on

What prompted you to set up your foundation Karno Kids that is dedicated to fighting childhood obesity?

Having two children of my own, I know how challenging it can be to raise healthy and active kids these days. More than a third of all children in the developed world are either overweight of obese. This is a grave tragedy to me as these kids represent the future. Karno Kids is dedicated to stemming the scourge of “globesity” and reversing the trend of inactivity and unhealthy eating.

Do you follow the Mediterranean diet?

I follow a traditional Mediterranean of our forefathers. The modern Mediterranean diet can be somewhat unhealthy, but the traditional Mediterranean diet is simple and pure.

The qualities that you embody the most - endurance and discipline - are what young Greeks need in these crisis-ridden times. How do

Never have I felt so natural as I did when running in my ancestral homeland. you hope to inspire a generation of young Greeks that have lost direction and hope?

Being an athlete I have learned that adversity and hardship can make you stronger. It saddens me to see the suffering the Greek people are going through, but I believe Greece will emerge stronger and better adapted for a brighter future. You can’t control everything, but one thing you can control is the amount of exercise you do and the types of foods you eat. Take control of your body and out your health first and you will have a wealth beyond anything money can buy.

With the Navarino Challenge, do you hope to promote Greece as an e-sport destination?

Greece is the ideal location for active sports tourism, and the Navarino Challenge proved this point. I have already promoted this fact broadly here in America and I look forward to an even grander and more spectacular event in 2014. Come and join me!

insider athens | November & December 2013 47

Restaurants

Athenian eats A review of two new, one recent and one veteran restaurant in the city

Kona Kai An institution that has been offering Athenians a repertoire of fine Polynesian tastes, a fusion of Asian cuisine and “Japanese Teppanyaki” for 30 years, Kona Kai at the Athens Ledra Marriott has done what few restaurants have achieved: sustained its quality and clientele for three decades. A meeting point for celebrities, politicians, industrialists and lovers of Asian cuisine, Kona Kai, with its exotic totems and cascading waterfalls, transports Athenians to a world far, far away with its visual and gustative treats. Acknowledging the support from its loyal patrons, on it’s 30th anniversary, Kona Kai offers winter-long discounts and special menus featuring old time classic delicacies and new exotic cocktails.

Athens Ledra Marriott Hotel, Syngrou 115, Tel: 210 9300000

new Barin A new Russian restaurant comes to town in Elliniko, a stone’s throw from the old international airport.

The restaurant space is split into parts – a formal restaurant that is open from Thursday to Sunday and an informal bar & bistro that has an adjoining courtyard (complete with a genuine Dakota aircraft) which is open from Tuesday noon to Sunday. The cuisine is traditional Russian fare with a modern, lighter touch.

The bistro serves Russian snacks throughout the day and has live music (mainly jazz) on Friday and Saturday evenings. Barin comes equipped with its own micro-brewery, so guests can sample authentic house-brewed beer to accompany meals and raise a glass to shout Za zdorovje in unison!

33rd Street Elliniko 13, Tel: 210.963.5416

48 insider athens | November & December 2013

Restaurants

new F+W Olivier Campanha’s exquisite wine gourmet restaurant in Kolonaki (with Yiannis Markis) opens out onto a verdant courtyard and promises to be the new gourmet pit-stop for those seeking an edge to their meals. Having worked at some of the most sought-after restaurants in London and Paris, including the three Michelin starred Sketch and La Tour d’Argent, Chef Olivier Campanha comes with an enviable pedigree. He however avoids the pitfalls of overplaying on the chemistry to produce a truly ethereal meal, subtle in flavours and generous in portions. Done up in neutral shades of gray, the green theme continues indoors with a floor-to-ceiling vertical garden, lending the restaurant a truly airy, open feel. Insider recommends the ‘sea in two ways’ salad for starters and braised lamb with artichokes for mains.

Xenokratous 49, Kolonaki, 210.721.1146.

Mavro Provato A quaint little bistro on a leafy street in Pangrati, Mavro Provato (Black Sheep) spills onto the pavement to accommodate around ten tables.

Brushstrokes of classy black dominate while earthy tones of wood lend it a warm, engaging atmosphere. The food here is simple, yet creative.

With an accent on local products and authentic produce, the menu is full of wholesome Greek mageirefta cuisine, tweaked to give it a bit of edge. Chef Nick Mentis combines traditional flavours with an innovative twist to recreate a succulent pork papillote, redolent with the aromas of rosemary and thyme. Insider also recommends the chicken burger, light and flavoured just-so.

Arrianou 31, Pangrati, Tel: 210.722.3466

50 insider athens | November & December 2013

the ii

Business of Luxury

REGISTER NOW Thursday 21 November 2013, Hotel Grande Bretagne, Athens

CONFERENCE

www.businessofluxury.gr

Understanding & Engaging the new Luxury Consumer Τhe unique luxury business conference in Greece, on the strategy, positioning and promotion of luxury products and services.

The conference will address 10 main topics:

1.

The dynamics of the luxury products and services market globally The new global balance of power in view of the evolution of emerging markets The luxury consumer’s profile, his/her habits and preferences, as well as the way he/she perceives luxury and deals with it How the online and social media boom, along with their strong effect on communications methods affect sales of luxury brands and services?

Which sales and promotion strategies do luxury brands and services opt for, based on new eco-social trends?

The use of the “affordable luxury” concept as a response to the economic crisis The economic crisis’ effects on the consumer’s behavioral patterns and buying habits How is the local luxury market developing, what is the positioning of imported luxury brands and the strategy of “top international brands” with a presence in Greece The evolution of Greek luxury brands and their future prospects in Greece and abroad Greece’s prospects and potential as a top international luxury destination

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

The conference will present selected best practices of Greek leading luxury companies with an international profile.

SPEAKERS • Dimitri Katsachnias, Partner and Strategic Director, Air Paris • Rodi Kratsa, MEP, European Parliament Vice-President (2007-2012), Patron, Delian League Initiative

• Corinna Sundermeier, Founder, Managing Director & Master Trainer/ Coach, GIOIA Training – Global Luxury Retail Training & Coaching • Fabrice Lombardo, CEO & Founder, GEREJE Corporate Finance

• Annia Spiliopoulos – Eliades, Founding Partner, Quintessentially & Managing Partner, Algean Group

• Yannis Tseklenis, Designer • Georges Papalexis, CEO, Zolotas • George Drakopoulos, Director General, SETE • Barbara Avdis, Chairman of the Board, Historic Hotels of Europe & Founder and Managing Director, Yades Greek Historic Hotels

• Katerina Katopis, Director, Dolphin Capital Partners • Panos Sarantopoulos, CEO, House of METAXA • George Vernicos, Secretary General, SETE • Marianne Le Clère-Papalexis, Chairman, DELIAN LEAGUE INITIATIVE & ZOLOTAS

• Alkistis Sidiropoulou, Marketing Manager, LA PRAIRIE • Anna Karadimitriou, Head of Ad Hoc & Online Research, FOCUS BARI • Gina Roupaka, Brand Consultant, Partner, LynxEye • George Kolliopoulos, Founder, SPEIRON (lambda ultra premium olive oil) • Mareva Grabowski, Co-Founder & creative director, ZEUS+∆ΙΟΝΕ • Oliana Spyridopoulou, Founder, STARBAGS online shopping platform • Constantinos Tseklenis, Director–Producer-New Media Creator

Sponsor

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CONTENT & SPONSORSHIPS: Danae Salepoula, tel.: 210 6617 777 (dir.115), e-mail: dsalepoula@boussias.com CONTENT: Katerina Vallogianni, tel.: 210 6617 777 (dir.105), e-mail: kv@boussias.com SPONSORSHIPS & REGISTRATIONS: Vassilis Koutsavlis, tel.: 210 6617 777 (dir. 129), e-mail: vkoutsavlis@boussias.com

Insider guide refer to corresponding area for more information and contact details

restaurant index by type AMERICAN JACKSON HALL Kolonaki TGI FRIDAY’S Kolonaki

ASIAN Golden Phoenix Halandri NUI Kifissia Wagamama Maroussi

BAR - RESTAURANTS Apsendi Halandri BACARO Omonia BALTHAZAR Mavili Sq BARAONDA Mavili Sq CASH Kifissia CINCO Kolonaki Eclipse Kolonaki FRAME Kolonaki GINGER Mavili Sq ISLAND Vouliagmeni KITCHEN BAR Faliro & Halandri MAMACAS Gazi NIXON Kerameikos OSTERMAN Syntagma PARKO ELEFTHERIAS Mavili Sq SEMIRAMIS RESTAURANT Kifissia SHOWROOM Kolonaki

FISH RESTAURANTS Ai Nikolas Syngrou CAPTAIN JOHN’S Piraeus ITHAKI Vouliagmeni JIMMY AND THE FISH Piraeus KASTELORIZO Kifissia Kollias Syngrou LA PECHE Glyfada MILOS Hilton MYTHOS OF THE SEA Vouliagmeni PAPADAKIS Kolonaki PLOUS PODILATOU Piraeus Psaroma Halandri THALATTA Gazi TO 25ARAKI Glyfada VAROULKO Kerameikos ZEFYROS Piraeus

FISH TAVERNAS Almyra Halandri DOURAMBEIS Piraeus Ichthyes Kifissia KOLLIAS Piraeus MAISTRALI Vouliagmeni PSARAKI Vouliagmeni TRATA O STELIOS Pangrati VASSILENAS Piraeus

FRENCH L’ABREUVOIR Kolonaki LE PETIT SOMMELIER Faliro MONO RESTAURANT Plaka SPONDI Pangrati TARTARE Glyfada VARDIS Kifissia

GOURMET AVENUE Syngrou Bo Botrini’s Halandri KUZINA Thissio Eclipse Kolonaki Fuga Mavili Sq Funky Gourmet Kerameikos GALAZIA HYTRA Vouliagmeni

HYTRA Syngrou KOOL LIFE Kifissia P-Box Kolonaki Polly Magoo Metaxurgeio PremiEre Syngrou

GREEK 2 MAZI Plaka ALERIA Kerameikos ATHIRI Kerameikos Berdema Kifissia CUCINA POVERA Pangrati DAKOS Kolonaki DIPORTO Psyrri ELAIS GI Kifissia ELIAS KOUKOUTSI Voula FASOLI Exarhia IDEAL Omonia KARAVITIS Pangrati KAVOURAS Exarhia MANI MANI Acropolis MELILOTOS, Monastiraki PLATANOS Plaka PSOMI & ALATI Halandri RAKOKAZANO Halandri PROSOPA Gazi TO KOUTI Monastiraki YANTES Exarhia YDRIA Plaka

GRILL Meat Me Kifissia Meat Square Glyfada & Halandri Meatropoleos 3 Syntagma Telemachos Barbeque Club Kifissia

INDIAN BOLLYWOOD Gazi Indian Kitchen Syntagma Indian Masala Thissio ISKANDAR Alimos JAIPUR PALACE Kifissia KOHENOOR Gazi

INTERNATIONAL Ache Glyfada Gefsis Me Onomasia Proelefsis Kifissia

ITALIAN 30 SOMETHING Halandri AGLIO OLIO Acropolis ACQUA AZZURA Kifissia AL BACIO Vouliagmeni AL FRESCO Vouliagmeni AL MILANESE Kolonaki ALTRO Kolonaki BOSCHETTO Kolonaki CANTUCCIO Psyrri CAPANNA Psyrri DA BRUNO Faliro DA VINCI Ag. Paraskevi DVLCIS IN FVNDO Voula GENOVESE Voula LA CASA DI GIORGINO Gyfada IL SEGRETO Voula Il Tinello Faliro IL TRAMONTO Vouliagmeni MAGIAMO BY MEAT SQUARE Kifissia

Mauzac Maroussi Matilde Pizza Bar Gazi Nanninela Ag. Paraskevi Pausa Maroussi Piazza Mela Kifissia, di Antonio Halandri SALE E PEPE Kolonaki SCALA VINOTECA Kolonaki TONY BONANO Piraeus VEZENE Hilton VINCENZO Glyfada

MEZEDES AND OUZO ATHINAIKON Omonia KIRKI Thissio OUZADIKO Kolonaki SCHOLARHEIO Plaka

MULTI ETHNIC Altamira Kolonaki

PERSIAN ANAHITA Halandri

POLYNESIAN

JAPANESE DOSIRAK Syntagma FAR EAST Syntagma FREUD ORIENTAL Kolonaki FURIN KAZAN Syntagma GOLDEN PHOENIX Kifissia INBI Kolonaki KIKU Kolonaki MATSUHISA ATHENS Vouliagmeni NOODLE BAR Syntagma SHOGUN Kifissia Square Sushi Kolonaki

LEBANESE BEIRUT Glyfada NARA NARA Psyrri NARGILE Kifissia

Alatsi Hilton Apla Kifissia BAKU Vouliagmeni BEREKET Glyfada BRACHERA Monastiraki BYZANTINE RESTAURANT Hilton CAFE AVYSSINIAS Monastiraki CAFE BOHEME Kolonaki Common Secret Kifissia DAPHNE’S RESTAURANT Plaka DORIS Monastiraki FATSIO Pangrati GB CORNER Syntagma HYTRA Plaka IDEAL RESTAURANT Omonia KITRINO PODILATO Gazi KOUZINA CINE-PSIRRI Psyrri MAGEMENOS AVLOS Pangrati MALABAR Vouliagmeni Mauzac Kifissia MEIDANIS Monastiraki NICE N EASY Kolonaki OCHRE & BROWN Psyrri Olio by Portofino Ag. Paraskevi PARLIAMENT Syntagma PRYTANEION Kolonaki PSARAKI Vouliagmeni RATKA Kolonaki TA KIOUPIA Kolonaki TO KOUTI Monastiraki ZEPHYROS Piraeus ZORBAS Piraeus AMIGOS Glyfada DOS HERMANOS Kifissia EL TACO BUENO Maroussi Santa Fe Halandri

PUB RESTAURANTS BAYERN BIERHAUS MICROBREWERY Glyfada MOLLY MALONE’S Glyfada

RETRO Aneton Maroussi

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

SOUVLAKIA AND KEBAB

MEDITERRANEAN

MEXICAN

KONA KAI Syngrou

BUTCHER’S SHOP Gazi DREAM GRILL Voula Gourounakia Kifissias Kifissia KALAMAKI KOLONAKI Kolonaki NAIADES Voula SAVVAS Monastiraki SCHARA Vouliagmeni SIGALAS-BAIRAKTARIS Monastiraki Souvlaki Bar Thissio THANASSIS Monastiraki Tike Kifissia

SCANDINAVIAN SAFKA Kerameikos

SPANISH JAMON PINTXOS BAR Glyfada SALERO Exarhia

TAVERNAS FILIPOU Kolonaki LOUIZIDIS Vouliagmeni O Tzitzikas Ki O Mermigas Kifissia, Syntagma SKOUFIAS Exarhia VLASSIS Hilton

THAI ROYAL THAI Kifissia TAMARIND Metaxurgeio

VEGETARIAN Avocado Syntagma

WINE BARS FABRICA DE VINO Exarhia HETEROCLITO Syntagma L’Enoteca Halandri OINOSCENT Syntagma Whispers of wine Maroussi

insider athens | November & December 2013 53

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Marie Chantal Boutique

Free Shop

Rere Papa

Spefsippou 11, Tel: 210.722.2029 Old-fashioned chic for little princes and princesses

Voukourestiou 50Tel: 210.364.1308 A haven of hip, carrying labels from Balenciaga to Martin Margiela to Marlene Birger

Skoufa 62, Tel: 210.364.4300 Distinctive creations by two young Greek women and other international imports

Giorgio Armani

Thalassa Collection

Koumbari 8, Tel: 210.361.3603 Suit- and dress-maker to the stars

Patriarchou Ioakim 30-32 Tel: 210.725.8525 Original silk designs for scarves, ties, shawls & blouses

Mouyer Kanari 8, Tel: 210.361.7714 Good-quality orthopaedic shoes as well as funkier styles

Vlassis Holevas Anagnostopoulou 19, Tel: 210.361.6167 Elegant fashion with a contemporary twist

Exarhia Syllektiko Paleopolio Asklipiou 41, Tel: 210.364.1718 Antiques of all sorts and restoration services

Flowers Fleria Patriarchou Ioakim 35, Tel: 210.722.9697

Vinyl Microstore Didotou 34, Tel: 210.361.4544 New vinyls & cds; also reissues from the 60s & more

Yesterday's Bread

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

Kolonaki Antiques Kilim Hali Valaoritou 9, Tel: 210.363.7056 www.kilimhali.gr Antique carpets from around the world

Beauty &Cosmetics Apivita Solonos 26, Tel: 210.364.0560 Shop natural Greek cosmetics, get a prescription cream made up and have a quick massage

Harnn Shop

Bespoke Athens

Fashion

Hugo Boss

Cava Anthidis

Atelier Loukia

Amerikis 19, Tel: 210.360.0516 Smart separates for a work wardrobe

Ypsilantou 13-15, Tel: 210.725.1050 Comprehensive wine and liquor wholesalers

Kanari 24, Tel: 210.362.7334 Fairytale dresses in lace and embroidery from Greece's doyenne designer

Bespoke Athens Anagnostopoulou 15-17 Tel: 210.364.5518, Made-to-measure suits and shirts from top international tailors

Carouzos Kanari 12, Tel: 210.362.7123 Designer items from Prada, Brioni, Donna Karan, Fendi and other top-flight brands

Coach Tsakalof 28, Tel: 210.362.5669 Leather totes and luggage in easy American style

Deux Hommes Kanari 18, Tel: 210.361.4155 Greece's design ambassadors create structural separates and heavenly bridal gowns. www.deuxhommes.gr

Irakleitou 15, Tel: 210.364.5428 Beautifully packaged skincare and homespa products

Dior Boutique

Children

DKNY

Bambineria Kanari 5, Tel: 210.339.2597 Designer togs for tots

Frattina Kanari 21, Tel: 210.360.4481 Casual clothing and gifts for kids

Jack in the Box Haritos 13, Tel: 210.725.8735 Beautiful wooden toys and more

Food & Wine

Voukourestiou 18-20, Tel: 210 361.3014 High-end designer fashion

Kalogirou Patriarchou Ioakim 4, Tel: 210.335.6401 Fetish footwear from Prada, Tod's & Casadei

Kylix

Lacoste

Wine Garage

Solonos 5, Tel: 210.361.8030 French take on American sportswear

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

Karneadou 20, Tel: 210.724.5143 Quality picks from the world’s best vineyards; including Greek labels

Lanvin Iraklitou 9, Tel: 210.360.8315 Alber Elbaz's gloriously chic take on the classic French couture house

Gadgets

Linea Piu

Octopus

Sekeri 6, Tel: 210 360.6125 Collections from exclusive fashion houses including Chanel, Galliano, Lagerfeld and Sonia Rykiel

Solonos 15, Tel: 210.363 6677 Quirky designs with a sense of humour

Skoufa 15, Tel: 210.363.5600 Designer emporium stocked with Chloe, Roberto Cavalli, Ralph Lauren, Missoni & more

Marc by Marc Jacobs

Benaki Museum Gift Shop Vas. Sofias & Koumbari Tel: 210.367.1045 Artefacts and jewellery inspired by the museum’s exhibits

Xanthou 3, Tel: 210.363.6030 Budget knick-knacks and must-have casuals from America's fashion hero

Observatory Attitudes

Elina Lebessi

Solonos 9, Tel: 210.364.6910 The ultimate fashion store www.attitudes.gr

Iraklitou 13, Tel: 210.363.1731 Ethereal frocks, pretty tea-dresses and accessories from around the world

Paul & Shark Anagnostopoulou 6, Tel: 210.339.2334 Casual yachting styles

Ermenegildo Zegna

Preview

Skoufa 18, Tel: 210.361.3700 Home of fine fabrics and handsome tailor-finished suits

Patriarchou Ioakim 19, Tel: 210.722.4731 High fashion designer shoes

Solonos 8, Tel: 210.360.3775 Classic American sportswear

Gifts

Luisa

Ilias Lalaounis museum

Central Athens

Insider guide Shop

insider athens | November & December 2013 55

Insider guide Shop

Liana Vourakis

Oxette

Pindarou 42, Tel. 2103617705

Skoufa 37, Tel: 210.339.0547 Trendy, affordable jewellery

Home

Ozzi Skoufa 30, Tel: 210.364.2139 Greek silver fashion jewellery

Christofle

Van Cleef & Arpels

Koumbari 5, Tel: 210.362.0483 Classis silver and crystal ideal for wedding gifts

Voucourestiou 1, Tel: 210.331.0319 The jeweller of the international jetset

La Fenetre Irodotou 21, Tel: 210.723.5029 Elegant objects and sophisticated gifts for the house, mostly from France

Parousiasi Patriarchou Ioakim 33, Tel: 210.723.7656, A range of international brands in crystal, china and other eye-catching homeware accessories

Monastiraki Antiques Darousos Normanou 7, Tel: 210.331.1638 Small antique shop in the heart of the flea market

Paleovivliopolio Hiotakis

Jewellery

Normanou 7, Tel: 210.324.7835 Historic bookshop houses rare & old books

Apriati

Food & Wine

Pindarou 29, Tel: 210.360.7878 Smartly designed necklaces, bracelets and rings

Arapian

Elena Votsi Xanthou 7, Tel: 210.360.0936 Conversation-starting pieces in gold and stone

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

Evripidou 41, Tel: 210.321.7238 Old-style butcher shop offers interesting sausages, pasturma & smoked meats

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

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

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

Pangrati

Liana Vourakis

Korres

Anagnostopoulou 26-8 Tel: 210.362.2564 For unique baptism and wedding gifts, start here

Ivikou 8 & Eratosthenous Tel: 210.722.2774 Natural Greek products made using Mediterranean herbs

BEAUTY & COSMETICS

56 insider athens | November & December 2013

Plaka

Syntagma

Antique stores

Accessories

Maritinos Pandrosou 50, Tel: 210.321.2414 Specializes in 19th Century folk art, embroidery & furniture

Food & wine

Bag Stories Panepistimiou 41, Tel: 210.323.7405 Luggage & travel bags by Tumi, Porsche Design, Rimowa & Delsey

Antiques Antiqua

Mesogaia Nikis 52, Tel: 210.322.9146 Packaged & fresh speciality foods

Vassilis Amalias 2-4, Tel: 210.323.2220 One of the oldest antique stores in Athens

Gifts

Beauty & Cosmetics

Amorgos Kodrou 3, Tel: 210.324.3836 Hand-carved & painted furniture

Psyrri Fashion Christoforos Kotentos Sachtouri 3, Tel: 210.325.5434 Glamorous & unique designs

Fresh Line Ermou 30, Tel: 210.324.6500 Fresh organic cosmetics from Greece

MAC Ermou 44, Tel: 210.325.8260 International cosmetic brand for women who like to play with colour

Books Eleftheroudakis

Home

Panepistimiou 17, Tel: 210.325.8440 The largest foreign language bookstore in Greece

Notoshome

Department Stores

Kratinou 5, Tel: 210.374.3000 Home dĂŠcor superstore

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

Fokas Stadiou 41, Tel: 210.325.7770 Clothes, shoes and accessories for men, women & children

Stock House & Travel Ermou 45, Tel: 210.324.7732 Outlet store featuring brands from Parousiasi, Cook Shop & Bag Stories

Fashion - Men’s Pagoni Akadimias 61, Tel: 210.363.9277 Selling ties and cufflinks since 1933

Shop Flowers

Jewellery

Dromoloulouda

Apriati

Voulis 15, Tel: 210.323.2321 Specializing in arrangements with wild flowers, many indigenous to Greece

Pentelis 9 & Mitropoleos, Tel: 210.322.9020 Smartly designed necklaces, bracelets and rings

Bulgari

Food & Wine

Voukourestiou 8, Tel: 210.324.7118 Opulent designs in jewellery, watches & accessories

Aristokratikon

Cartier

Cellier

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

Chopard

Kriezotou 1, Tel: 210.361.0040 Speciality wine shop

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

Gadgets

Folli Follie

Public Syntagma Square, Tel: 210.324.6210, Five floors of gaming, gadgets & books

Gifts Argalios Filellinon 7, Tel: 210.322.2659 Hand-woven fabrics & souvenirs since 1940

Graf Von Faber-Castell Boutique Panepistimiou 41, Tel: 210.321.8564 Traditional hand-held writing utensils

Kori Mitropoleos 13, Tel: 210.323.3534 Traditional & contemporary jewellery

Psarros 1917 Stadiou 3, Tel: 210.322.0908 Executive gifts and smoking accessories

Home Baccarat

Ermou 18, Tel: 210.323.0739 Trendy & affordable jewellery & accessories

Shoes

Gofas

Ermou 63, Tel: 210.322.7590 Pick up a pair of Manolo’s at half price!

Stadiou 3, Tel: 210.331.7540 High-end timepieces

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

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

Marathianakis Voukourestiou 21, Tel: 210.362.7118 Old-world shop known for its original & elegant designs

Omega Omega, the brand of James Bond and Nicole Kidman, has its own elegant boutique on Voukourestiou showcasing the brand’s collections Voukourestiou 2, Tel: 210.322.7682

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

Voukourestiou 21, Tel: 210.362.2863 Fine crystal from the venerable French luxury house

Zolotas Panepistimiou 10, Tel: 210.360.1272 Designs inspired by the antique & classical periods as well as contemporary collections by designers like Paloma Picasso www.zolotas.gr

Spiliopoulos

Vassilis Zoulias Old Athens Akadimias 4, Tel: 210.361.4762 Handmade shoes and handbags inspired by films of the 50s & 60s

Southern Athens

Karageorgi Servas 9, Tel: 210.322.0546 Handmade chocolates

Northern Athens

To advertise, contact ads@insider-magazine.gr

Glyfada

Kifissia Fashion 21 Kifissia Kifissias 265, Tel: 210.801.3594 Extreme sport paraphernelia

Vassilis Zoulias Argyropoulou 1-3, Tel: 210.801.7023 Unique designs reminiscent of times past

Food & Wine Aristokratikon Argyropoulou 8, Tel: 210.801.6533 Decadent handmade chocolates

Bakaliko Ola Ta Kala Kifissias 238-240, Mela Shopping Centre, Tel: 210.808.9908 Quality Greek delicacies

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

Stefanidis Finest Foods

Fashion Enny di Monaco Laodikis 41, Tel: 210.894.0153 Carefully selected designs by various international designers

Obervatory Attitudes A. Panagouli 17, Tel: 210.894.2113 The ultimate fashion store www.attitudes.gr

Dimitrios Square 13, Tel: 210.808.2191 Excellent European delicatessen

Varsos Kassaveti 5, Tel: 210.801.2472 Milk products & patisserie

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

The Mall Athens

Jewellery ZerTeo Metaxa 24-26, Tel: 210.894.6682 Unique jewellery designs

Andrea Papandreou 35 Tel: 210.630.0000 Shops, cinemas and food

Food & Wine Provence Posidonos 80, Tel: 210.898.1435 Gourmet French delicatessen

insider athens | November & December 2013 57

Central Athens

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

Asimenia Bakery Beles 1 and Androutsou Tel: 210.924.7655 Raisin bread, almond shortbread, yummy cookies & tasty loaves

Mani Mani Falirou 10. Tel: 210.921.8180 Peloponnesian specialities with Mediterranean touches

Yantes

DRINK

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

Bars, Clubs & Lounges

DRINK Circus Bar Navarinou 11, Tel: 210.361.5255 Attracts a hip and happening crowd in a cozy space

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

Vox Arahovas 56 & Themistokleous Tel: 210.383.5811, One of the oldest summer cinemas in Athens is a picturesque place for a retro-tinged drink

Gazi EAT

Exarhia

Bollywood Gazi

EAT

Elasidon 29 & Konstantinoupoleos 44, Tel: 210.345.0041 Indian cuisine in an industrial setting

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

Fasoli Emanouil Benaki 45, Tel: 210.330.0010 A great meal in an uplifting environment

Kavouras Themistokleous 64, Tel: 210.381.0202 Dine while enjoying live Rebetika music

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

Skoufias Lontou 4, Tel: 210.382.8206 Exceptional entrees you are unlikely to find elsewhere

Butcher’s Shop Persefonis 19, Tel: 210.341.3440 Traditional psistaria serving grilled meat dishes

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

Mamacas Persefonis 41, Tel: 210.346.4984 Modern taverna located in an old barrel warehouse offering traditional Greek fare

Almaz Triptolemou 12, Tel: 210.347.4763 Lounge in a modern atmosphere while listening to music from around the world

Dirty Ginger Triptolemou 46, Tel: 210.342.3809 Excellent cocktails, meat dishes and “hot” finger food

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

Gasoline

Mani Mani

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

Plastiko Sofroniou 12A, Tel: 210.341.3729 Excellent cocktails, reasonable prices, summer mood

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

Villa Mercedes Andronikou & Tzaferi 11 Tel: 210.342.2380 Mega club ideal for all-night dancing

Hilton EAT Alatsi

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

Kerameikos

Vrassida 13, Tel: 210.721.0501 Exquisite Cretan specialties

EAT

Matilde Pizza Bar

Byzantine Restaurant

Aleria

Konstantinoupoleos 44, Tel: 210 3411878 Authentic Italian cuisine in a cozy setting

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

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

Kitrino Podilato

Milos

Athiri

Keramikou 116, Tel: 210.346.5830 Mediterranean cuisine in a modern industrial atmosphere

Athens Hilton Vas. Sofias 46, Tel: 210.724.4400 Simply prepared local flavours.

Guaranteed value for money

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

Prosopa

Awarded Toque d’Or in 2013

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

Vezene

Funky Gourmet Voted one of top 10 Paramythias 13

Vrasida 11, Tel: 210723002 Modern bistrot serving seafood & cured beef

and Salaminos, Tel: 210 524 2727 Haute cuisine in art deco interior

Vlassis

Safka

Thalatta

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

Vitonos 5, Tel: 210.346.4204 Fresh seafood creations

58 insider athens | November & December 2013

restaurants in Europe Regular

win

e Megalou Alexandrou 80-82, degusta tions Tel: 210 524 3340S candinavian cuisine

Eat & Drink Varoulko

Degustation menu at just 40 €

Cinco

Pireos 80, Tel: 210.522.8400 Seafood prepared by Michelin star-winning chef Lefteris Lazarou

Skoufa 52, Tel: 210.364.360 Stylish, lively tapas bar with great cocktails

Kolonaki

Eclipse (Bar restaurant)

EAT Bakeries & Patisseries Cake

Alopekis 21, Tel: 210 364 1545 Fabulous cocktails and creative Mediterranean cuisine by Yiannis Baxevannis Xenokratous 49, Tel: 210.721.1146 Gourmet food by Oliver Campanha

Filipou

Fresh

Frame

Restaurants Al Milanese Xenokratous 49, Tel: 210.729.4111 Authentic Italian cuisine for the discerning

Altamira Tsakalof 36A, Tel: 210.361.4695 Flavours of multiethnic cuisine

Altro Haritos 39, Tel: 210.724.2717 Tiny funky restaurant that specializes in Italian food

Boschetto Evangelismos Park, Tel: 210.721.0893 Italian food in a lush central setting

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

For Creative Cuisine

F+W new

Irodotou 15, Tel: 210.721.2253 For real American homemade cheesecake, brownies and more Kriezotou 12, Tel: 210.364.2948/ Loukianou 21, Tel: 210.729.3453 Desserts and cakes

To advertise, contact ads@insider-magazine.gr

Xenokratous 19, Tel: 210.721.6390 Home-cooked Greek taverna dishes St George Lycabettus Hotel Dinokratous, Tel: 210.721.4368 Exotic cuisine in the heart of Athens

Freud Oriental Xenokratous 21, Tel: 210.729.9595 Sushi in a cool setting

Inbi Iraklitou 21, Tel: 210.339.2090 Sushi fusion

Jackson Hall Milioni 4, Tel: 210.361.6098 Gourmet burgers with all the fixings

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

Kiku Dimokritou 12, Tel: 210.364.7033 Fresh, beautifully presented sushi

L'Abreuvoir Xenokratous 51, Tel: 210.722.9106 Fine French cuisine

Le Grand Balcon St George Lycabettus Hotel, Kleomenous 2, Tel: 210.729.0711 Gourmet Greek cuisine

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

P-BOX

City

Haritos 24, Periscope hotel Tel: 210 7298556, Simple ingredients, special flavours in a setting designed

by Theodore Zoumboulakis

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

Prytaneion Milioni 7, Tel: 210.364.3353 Generous portions of Mediterranean fare

London str 72

new

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

Mai Tai

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

Sale e Pepe Aristipou 34, Tel: 210.723.4102 Authentic Italian trattoria

Scala Vinoteca

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

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

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

Skoufaki

Showroom

Ten

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

Ploutarhou 10, Tel: 210.321.7836 One of the most popular hot spots in town

Square Sushi Deinokratous 65, Tel: 210.725.5236 High-quality sushi & other Japanese favourites

Ta Kioupia Dinokratous & An Polemou 22 Tel: 210.740.0150 Superb set menu of Greek and Continental classics with refined touches

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

Cafés Da Capo Tsakalof 1, Tel: 210.243.3902 Long-established people-watching hangout

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

TGI Friday’s

Tea

Kolokotroni 35, Kefalari sq.

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

To Tsai

Ouzadiko

DRINK

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

Mavili Sq

Bars, Clubs & Lounges

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

Papadakis

Aleria

www.lachocolatiere.gr

Milos Garden

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

Central Kolonaki Square, Tel: 210.724.5938 The place to see & be seen while sipping on coffee or cocktails

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

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

insider athens | November & December 2013 59

Insider guide Eat & Drink Baraonda

Karavitis

Tsoha 43, Tel: 210.644.4308 Gourmet cuisine and funky beats

Arktinou & Pausaniou Tel: 210.721.5155 Classic Greek cuisine in a dining room lined with wine casks

Briki Dorileou 6, Mavili sq.

Tel: 210.654.2380 Trendy hole-in-the-wall hangout

Magemenos Avlos Amynta 4, Tel: 210.722.3195 Mediterranean fare, welcoming decor & generous servings

Flower Dorileou 2, Mavili sq.

Tel: 210.643.2111, Fun, funky and affordable watering hole

Spondi

EAT Fuga Vas.Sofias & Kokkali 1, Tel: 210 724 2979 Italian inspired menu by chef Andrea Berton at the Athens Concert Hall

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

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

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

Metaxurgeio EAT Archeon Gefsis Kodratou 22, Tel: 210.523.9661 Ancient Greek cuisine makes a unique comeback after 25 centuries

Polly Maggoo Leonidou 80 & Salaminos, Tel: 210 524 1120 Gourmet cuisine in a post-modern and industrial setting.

New hot spot for the trendy

Tamarind Thai Kitchen, Address: Kerameikou 51, Tel: 210.522.5945

Monastiraki EAT Bairaktaris

2M

ichelin stars Pyrronos 5, Tel: 210.756.4021 A mix of European & more exotic flavours. Voted one of the best in Athens Trata o Stelios Eclipse

Fuga

Café Avyssinias

Loukoumi Bar

Kynetou 7, Tel: 210.321.7407 Spcializing in regional dishes & live music on weekends

Plateia Avissinias 3, An all day hang-out with good music, cool atmosphere and great views

Doris

Six Dogs

Praxitelous 30, Tel: 210.323.2671 Hearty stews & pasta dishes at reasonable prices

Avramiotou 6-8, Tel: 210.321.0510 A day&night cultural entertainment center and bar with a vivid 600m2 back-garden.

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

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

Savvas

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

Omonia

Mitropoleos 86, Tel: 210.321.9919 Gyros & Middle Eastern dishes like pastourmali

EAT

Sigalas-Bairaktaris

Themistokleous 2, Tel: 210.383.8485 A traditional Greek ouzeri

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

Souvlaki Bar Adrianou 7 & Thisiou 15, Tel: 210 5150550

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

Athinaikon

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

Trata

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

DRINK

Brachera

Ifestou 2, Tel: 21.321.0006

Avissynias 3, Tel: 210.321.7202 Traditional Greek recipes with a European twist overlooking the Acropolis & Observatory

A for Athens

360 Cocktail Bar

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

60 insider athens | November & December 2013

DRINK - LIVE BARS Half Note Jazz Club Trivonianou 17, Tel: 210.921.3310 A jazz club with great history, hosting important names from the international music scene.

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

Plaka EAT 2 Mazi Nikis 48, Tel: 210.322.2839 Creative gourmet dishes that change monthly

Daphne’s Restaurant

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

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

Pangrati

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

EAT

Mono Resturant

Cucina Povera

Venizelou Paleologou 4, Tel: 210.322.6711 Unpretentious gourmet cuisine

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

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

Evforionos 13 & Eratosthenous Tel: 210.756.6008, Greek cuisine with a menu that changes daily

Fatsio Efroniou 5, Tel: 210.721.7421 Greek food & political gossip

Electra

Platanos Diogenous 4, Tel: 210.322.0666 One of the few remaining tavernas preserving 1940s Athens

Eat & Drink

To advertise, contact ads@insider-magazine.gr

Scholarheio

Ochre & Brown

Far East

Kalua

Tripodon 14, Tel: 210.324.1605 A traditional tray taverna with old fashioned decor & prices

Leokoriou 7, Tel: 210.331.2950 Mediterranean/French cuisine

Stadiou 7, Tel: 210.323.4996 A mix of Asian cuisines in elegant surroundings

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

Ydria

DRINK

Furin Kazan

Oinoscent

Bars, Clubs & Lounges Try the Cantina Social Po lis h beers Leokoriou 8,

Apollonos 2, Tel: 210.322.9170 A Japanese favourite of expats & Athenians alike

Voulis 44A Syntagma. tastings Tel: 210.322.9374 Trendy winebar

GB Corner

Syngrou

Adrianou 68 & Eolou, Tel: 210.325.1619 Taditional Greek cuisine

Tel: 210.325.1668 Tiny standing bar, ideal for socializing.

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

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

Cantuccio

Soul

Indian Kitchen

Lepeniotou & Ivis 1 Tel: 210.323.3670 Authentic Italian cuisine in a friendly environment

Evripidou 65, Tel: 210.331.0907 Show off your groovy disco moves

Apollonos 6, Tel: 210 3237720

Psyrri

Dude

EAT

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

Gostijo Aisopou 10 street, Tel: 210 32 33 825Kosher menu and mediterranean “repertoire”

Kouzina Cine-Psirri Sari 44, Tel: 210.321.5534 Mediterranean fare & eclectic music

Nara Nara Karaiskaki 26, Tel: 210.331.2091 Lebanese food & dancing

Syntagma EAT Avocado Nikis 30, Tel: 210 3237878 Vegetarian restaurant

Cellier Le Bistrot Panepistimiou 10, Tel: 210.363.8525 Excellent dishes accompany the extensive list of international wines

Dosirak Voulis 31-33, Tel: 210.323.3330 Japanese & Korean cuisine in the heart of Athens

EAT AiNikolas

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

Meatropoleos 3 Mitropoleos 3, Tel: 210 3241805 Modern greek grill restaurant

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

Osterman Mediterranean dishes, promising cocktail list in a setting where minimalism meets retro Agias Eirinis Sq, Tel: 210.324.3331

Parliament Vas. Georgiou A & Stadiou Tel: 210.335.2400 International cuisine with Mediterranean accents

Paul Panepistiomiou 10, Tel: 210.722.4824 A true French patisserie

Tzitzikas and Mermigas

Club

Eat

The concierge of the Grande Bretagne Hotel in Syntagma Square recommends: New: Tudor Hall Restaurant & Lounge, King George, Athens

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

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

Café Zoe Athenaeum InterContinental, Syngrou Ave 89-93 Tel: 210 920 6655 Casual dining and terrific buffets for lunch and on Sundays

Hytra

Michelin star chef

Onassis Cultural Center Syngrou Ave 107-109, Tel: 2177071118, 2103316767 Creative gourmet Greek cuisine by Nikos Karathanos with stunning views

Kollias Syngrou Ave. 303, Tel: 210 940 8620 Excellent seafood in a pleasant Mediterranean atmosphere

Kona Kai

Celebrates 30 years

Athens Ledra Marriott, Syngrou Ave. 115, Tel: 210 930 0000 Polynesian, Teppanyaki and Sushi cuisine in an original luxury setting

Peacock

Bars, Clubs & Lounges

Première

Boutique

Alternative: Funky Gourmet, Kerameikos, Athens

Explorer’s Lounge

Alternative: Cinco, Kolonaki, Athens

Avenue

Hotel Hera, Falirou 9, Tel: 210 923 6682 Traditional food with breathtaking Acropolis views

Filellinon 15, Tel: 210.323.1315 Popular Athenian night spot

Classic: By the Glass, Athens

Syngrou Ave. 156, Tel: 210 923 2918 Original seafood dishes, fresh ingredients and simple elegant interior

DRINK

Classic: Vlassis Restaurant, Ilissia, Athens

New: Rakkan, Kifissia, Athens

Frequent wine

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

Athenaeum InterContinental, Syngrou Ave 89-93, Tel: 210 920 6981 Gourmet cuisine with splendid views

Thissio EAT

Heteroclito

Indian Masala

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

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

insider athens | November & December 2013 61

Insider guide Eat & Drink Kirki

Zorbas

Apostoplou Pavlou 31 Tel: 210.346.6960 Ideal for a lunch break

Ak. Koumoundourou 14, Tel: 210.411.1163 Unique flavours of the Mediterranean

Kuzina

Southern Athens

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

Piraeus EAT Ak. Koumoundourou 16A, Tel: 210.417.7589 Traditional seafood

Baku, The Margi

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 Captain John's

Il Τramonto

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

Zinc “Flisvos” Marina, Tel: 210.985.3183 Cocktails whith music

Zythos Eleftherias 45, Tel: 210.985.0478 Reminiscent of an Irish pub with several beers to choose from

Sale Bianco

EAT

Glyfada

Tartare

Ak. Mikrolimanou, Tel: 210.413.4084.

Excellent seafood; try the astakomakaronada

Da Bruno

EAT

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

Amigos

Kollias

Il Tinello

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

Knossou 54, Tel: 210.982.8462 Real Italian home cooking

Dourambeis Ak. Protopsalti 29, Tel: 210.412.2092 Classic fish taverna

Faliro

Jimmy and The Fish

Tony Bonano

Iskandar Amphitheas 6 & Poseidonos, Tel: 210.988.6474 Authentic Indian cuisine

Panagouli 52, Tel: 210.968.0320 Quality French cuisine

Vincenzo Kyprou 65A, Tel: 210.898.3167 Mexican flavours in a friendly setting

Barin

new

Russian

cuisin

e 33rd Street Elliniko 13, Tel: 210.963.5416 The fist dedicated Russian restaurant in Athens Chr. Nezer 19, Tel: 210.894.4439 Authentic German cuisine

Kitchen Bar

Vassilenas

Zaimi 6, Tel: 210.984.2344 French cuisine & excellent wine list

Poseidonos 3, Tel: 210.981.2004 Comfort food overlooking the sea

Le Petit Sommelier

DRINK

Zefyros

Big Apple South

Ak. Koumoundourou 48, Tel: 210.417.5152 Fresh seafood on the quay

Posidonos 1, Tel: 210.948.5190 Casual cocktails in a modern atmosphere

Beirut Beirut, Panagouli 52 & Faidras Tel: 210.894.3169 Lebanese cuisine & entertainment

Bereket Mikras Asias & Lefkosias 36 Tel: 210.960.9337 Traditional dishes from Asia Minor

Jamon Pintxos Bar Laodikis 33-35, Tel: 2108946089 Basque “pinchos” in a cozy, cheerful atmosphere

To 25araki M. Botsari 8, Tel: 210.894.4112 Fresh seafood at reasonable prices

DRINK Bars, Clubs & Lounges 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

Liberty Fivis 17, Tel : 210.894.3856 A 20’s themed bar with excellent cocktail list

Cafes

Lefkosias 42A, Tel: 210.963.85770 Authentic Italian pizza made in a traditional wood-burning oven

Chocolat

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

Mushroom new

Matsuhisa

Balux

La Casa Di Giorgino

Molly Malone's

62 insider athens | November & December 2013

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

Bayern Bierhaus Microbrewery

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

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

Markou Botsari 10, Tel: 210.898.6301 Authentic Italian cuisine with an interesting wine list

Labraki & Ag. Nikolaou 48, Tel: 210.960.3943 Menu with emphasis on mushrooms with cosy, wood decor.

Try the cocktail with mushrooms

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

Cosi Zisimopoulou 12, Tel: 210.894.5746 One of the first cafes to inspireGlyfada's coffee culture

Nest Café Bar Lazaraki 45, Tel: 210.898.6035 An all-day hangout for locals & visitors

Bo Botrini’s

Seiza

Ithaki

Lazaraki 45, Tel: 210.968.0545 Cafe with a unique style & hip design

Apollonos 28, Tel: 210.896.3747 Beautiful sea view, fresh seafood & great service

Voula

Louizidis

EAT

Ermou 2, Tel: 210.896.0591 Traditional Greek taverna popular with the locals

Dream Grill

Malabar

V. Pavlou 78, Tel: 210.895.5110 Traditional recipes & authentic taste

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

Elias Koukoutsi

Live music Vasileos Pavlou 99, Th ursday-Saturda y Tel: 210.899.5480 A modern “rakadiko” serving Greek dishes.

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

Il Segreto Bizaniou 3, Tel: 210.965.9526 Authentic Italian set on a beautiful terrace

Vouliagmeni EAT Baku Margi Hotel, Litous 11, Tel: 210.967.0924 Delicious variations of Mediterranean food

Al Bacio

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

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

Matsuhisa Athens Astir Palace, Apollonos 40, Tel: 210.896.0510 Celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa serves up sushi favourites with a LatinAmerican flair

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

Psaraki Posidonos 15, Tel: 210.896.2432 Seafood served in an informal setting

Schara Posidonos 15, Tel: 210.896.2432 Grills with frills in a friendly setting at reasonable prices

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

DRINK

Posidonos 17, Tel: 210.896.0400 Trattoria serving traditional Italian dishes & pizza

En Plo

Il Tramonto

27th klm Athinon-Souniou Tel: 210.965.3563-4 Award-winning cuisine & an unmatched location with views of the Saronic Gulf

Astir Palace, Apollonos 40, Tel: 210.8901794 Creative Italian cuisine with mindblowing views of the Saronic Gulf

Posidonos 4, Tel: 210.967.1770 Cocktails overlooking Vouliagmeni Bay

Island

To advertise, contact ads@insider-magazine.gr Sofa Bar

1920

The Westin Hotel, Apollonos 40, Tel: 210.890.1709 Modern lounge bar serving up delectable cocktails

Ag. Paraskevi 110, Tel: 210.681.3029 Accent on meat in an elegant setting

Northern Athens

Eat & Drink

Ag. Paraskevi

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

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

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

Olio by Portofino Ag. Ioannou 63, Tel: 210.639.1666, Mediterranean flavours in a chic interior

Santa Fe Ag. Georgiou 30’B, Tel: 210.685.9690 Mexican food in traditional setting

Step by step new

Socratous 4, Tel: 213.027.6376 Refined tastes in cool, quirky aesthetics

Wine Not

new

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

Kifissia EAT

Halandri

Acqua Azzurra

EAT

Panagitsas 3, Tel: 210.623.3934 Specially-prepared Italian meals

30 something

Apla

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

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

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

Bo Botrini’s Vasileos Georgiou B 24b, Halandri, Tel: 210.685.7323 Athens' best table by far

Almyra Filikis Eterias 39, Tel: 210.681.9109 Refined seafood and magical summer garden

Kitchen Bar K. Varnali 6, Tel: 210.689.2015 Delightful gastronomic tour in a relaxing atmosphere

135 Charilaou Trikoupi Tel: 210.620.3102 Chrysanthos Karamolegos creates refined Mediterranean dishes

Berdema Vas Amalias 20, Tel: 210.801.3853 Traditional dishes from Greece & Asia Minor

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

Common Secret Kifissias 324, Tel: 210.623.3810 Coffee and light Mediterranean meals in a pleasant setting

Dos Hermanos Kyriazi 24, Tel: 210.808.7906 Excellent Mexican food & super margaritas

Elaias Gi

Ethnikis Antistaseos 9-11, Tel: 210.683.1300, Juicy steaks in pleasant family environment

Dexamenis & Olimpionikon 4, Tel: 210.62.00.005 The authenticity of Greek cuisine with stunning views of the city

Saipan

Gefsis Me Onomasia Proelefsis

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

Kifissias 317, Tel: 210.800.1402 Divine food from all over the world

Meat Square

insider athens | November & December 2013 63

5

Insider guide Eat & Drink Aneton

Kifissias 238, Mela Shopping Centre Tel: 210.623.6596, Classic & traditional Italian dishes

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

Prytaneion

El Taco Bueno

Kolokotroni 37, Tel: 210.808.9160 Generous portions of Mediterranean fare

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

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

Salumaio di Atene

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

Ichthyes Evagelistrias 36, Tel: 210.620.1572 Seafood taverna

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

Kool Life Life Gallery, Thiseos 103, Tel: 211.106.7400 Lefteris Lazarou's cuisine in a cool restaurant cum deli

Mangiamo by Meat Square Ave. 5, Drossia. Tel: 210.800.4700 Open from Mondays to Friday from 3 pm to midnight and on weekends from 1pm to midnight

Meat Me HarilaouTrikoupi 92, Tel: 210.623.2358 Simple yet discerning cuisine in a funky Greek taverna

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

Nui Gortinias 11, Tel: 210.801.3553 Gourmet mutli-Asian restaurant

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

Semiramis Restaurant

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

Oinopathia

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

Aghias Paraskevis 79 & Diogenous Tel: 210.685.5375, Great selection of wines with Greek and international cuisine

Shogun

Pausa

Philadelpheos 2, Tel: 210.623.3622 Promises authentic Japanese cuisine for the truly discerning

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

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

Tike Harilaou Trikoupi 27, Tel: 210.808.4418 Watch chefs prepare Turkish kebabs and other treats before your eyes

Vardis Deligianni 66, Pentelikon Hotel Tel: 210.623.0650-6, Cornerstone of French cuisine in Greece

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

Chateau Ag. Dimitriou 9, Tel: 210.801.5830 The cool sets preferred bar with baroque décor and refined cuisine

Dyo 48 Kifisias 248, Tel: 210.623.0870 New hang out oasis with retro ambience

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

Vinifera

Altamira Perikleous 28, Tel: 210 612 8841 Multiethnic cuisine in funky environment

64 insider athens | November & December 2013

Olive Tree Spa Chatzigiani Mexi 4, Tel: 210.724.4425

Syntagma GB Spa Syntagma Square, Tel: 210.333.0799 Awardwinning spa featuring treatments by E’SPA, Valmont & Algoane

Holmes Place Stadiou 4 & Voukourestiou Tel: 210.325.9400, Fully equipped health club with excellent array of classes

The Palace Spa

Ag. Asomaton 17 & Melidoni 1 Tel: 210.323.1073

Deligianni 50 & Georganta Tel: 210.801.8384, Massive club for dancing & sipping on signature cocktails

EAT

Hilton, Vas. Sofias 46, Tel: 210.728.1801 Indoor and outdoor pools

Hammam baths

Boudoir

Maroussi

Hiltonia Health & Wellness Club

Thissio

DRINK

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

Hilton

Syntagma Square, Tel: 210.374.3590 Ideal for rejuvenation after a long flight or a hectic bout of shopping

Urban Yoga Center

Southern Athens

Golden Phoenix

Panagitsas 3, Tel: 210.623.3934 Authentic Italian food & fabulous desserts

Mauzac

Central Athens

Piazza Mela

Royal Thai

Kool Life

Chill

Glyfada Touch & Go Quick relief by expert masseurs Dousmani 15, Tel: 210.894.4734

Voula Urban Yoga Center Leukados, 10 Tel: 213.025.3946, 6977040841 Release from urban stress

Vouliagmeni Arion Spa Astir Complex, Apollonos 40 Tel: 210.890.2000

Divani Apollon Palace & Spa Ag. Nikolaou 10, Tel: 210.891.1100

see & do Art galleries

A. Antonopoulou Art Aristofanous 20, Psirri Tel: 210.321.4994 Artzone 42 42 Vas. Konstantinou, Agalma Troyman, 11635 Athens, Tel: 210 725 9549 Astrolavos Dexameni Xanthippou 11, Kolonaki Tel: 210.729.4342 Astrolavos ArtLife Irodotou 11, Kolonaki Tel: 210.722.1200 Athens Art Gallery Glykonos 4, Dexameni Sq., 106 75 Athens, Tel: 210 721 3938 Badminton Theatre Olympiaka Akinita, Goudi 157 73, Athens, Tel: 211 101 0020 Bernier/Eliades Gallery Eptachalkou 11, Thisseio, Tel: 210.341.3935 Beyond Art Gallery Haritos 10, Kolonaki, Tel: 210.721.9744 B&M Theoharakis Foundation for the Fine Arts & Music Vas. Sofias 9 & Merlin 1, Athens Tel: 210.361.1206 (The) Breeder Gallery Iasonas 45, Metaxourgio, Tel: 210.331.7527 Ekfrasi Gallery Valaoritou 9a, 10671 Athens, Greece Tel: 210 360 7598 El.marneri galerie Lebessi 5-7& Porinou 16, Akropoli Tel: 210.8619.488 EMST National Museum of Contemporary Art Vas. Georgiou B 17 - 19 & Rigilis Str. Athens 10675, Tel: 210 9242 111-3 Fizz Gallery Valaoritou 9c, Athens 10671 Greece, Tel: 210 360 7598 Gagosian Gallery Merlin 3, Athens 10671, Tel: 210 364 0215 Gallery 7 Zalokosta 7, Syntagma, Tel: 210.361.2050 Gialino Music Theatre Sigrou 143, N. Smirni, Athens Tel: 210.9316.101-4 Herakleidon Herakleidon 16, Thissio, Tel: 210.346.1981 Ileana Tounta Contemporary Art Centre 48 Armatolon-Klephton st.

11471 Athens, Tel: 210.643.9466 Jill Yakas Spartis 16, Kifissia. Tel: 210.801.2773 www.yakas.com K-Art Gallery Sina 54, 106 72, Athens, Greece Tel: 211.401.3877 Kalfayan Gallery Haritos 11, Kolonaki, Tel: 210.721.7679 Kourd Gallery Kassiani 2-4, Tel: 210.642.6573 ww.gallerykourd.gr

Acropolis is open daily and entrance, includes archaeological sites. Tel: 201.321.0219 Ancient Agora was the heart of ancient Athens - the focus of political, commercial, administrative and social life for centuries.

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

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 marked the boundary of ancient Athens and the new city. Located at the corner of Vas. Olgas and Amalias Avenues.

Agora Museum Located in the Stoa of Attalos.

Tel: 210.321.0185.

Atelier Spyros Vassiliou Webster 5A, Athens.

Tel: 210.923.1502 www.spyrosvassiliou.org Athens University History Museum Tholou 5, Plaka, Tel: 210.368.9502 www.history-museum.uoa.gr Benaki Museum Koumbari 1 & Vas. Sofias Avenue Tel: 210.367.1000, www.benaki.gr Benaki Museum of Islamic Arts Dipylou 12, Kerameikos. Tel: 210.325.1311 www.benaki.gr

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

Hellenic Cosmos Foundation of the Hellenic world Pireos 254, Tavros. Tel: 212.254.0000. www.hellenic-cosmos.gr Frissiras Vlassis Museum of Contemporary European Art Monis Asteriou 3-7, Plaka, Tel: 210.323.4678 www.frissirasmuseum.com Goulandris Foundation Museum of Cycladic Art Neofytou Douka 4, Tel: 210.722.8321 www.cycladic.gr Herakleidon Herakleidon 16, Thissio.

Tel: 210-346.1981. www.herakleidon-art.gr Ilias Lalaounis Jewellery Museum Karyatidon & Kallisperi 12, Makrygianni.

Tel: 210.922.7260. www.lalaounis.com Jewish Museum Nikis 39, Plaka. Tel: 210.322.5582. www.jewishmuseum.gr Keramikos Museum Ermou 148, Monastiraki, Tel: 210.346.3552.

Maria Callas Museum Technopolis, Pireos 100, Gazi, Tel: 210.346.1589 National Archaeological Museum Patission 44, Athens, Tel: 210.821.7724 National Gallery and Alexandros Soutsos Museum Vas. Konstantinou 50.

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

Tel: 210.363.5953. www.nma.gr The Acropolis Museum Dionysiou Areopagitou Street Tel: 210.924.1043, www.theacropolismuseum.gr

Just for kids

Tel: 210.322.9705

Lykavittos Hill is the highest point in Athens. Take the teleferique from the top of Ploutarchou St. Megaron Mousikis (The Athens Concert Hall) live concerts, operas and other performances. Vas. Sofias Ave. & Kokkali.

Tel: 210.728.2333 Odeon of Herod Atticus built in 161 AD, this is where the Athens Festival takes place. Accessible for €1.50 and open daily from 8:30am.

Panathenian Stadium “Kalimarmaro”was the site of the first modern Olympics in 1896. Located at Vassileos Konstantinou and Agras, across from the National Garden.

Pnyx Hill here, for the first time in history, every citizen could vote, giving Pnyx the name the “birthplace of democracy”.

Close by is the beautiful Old Observatory.

Presidential Palace formerly the Royal Palace, this building is used by the President of Greece to host dignitaries.

Irodou Attikou Street.

Stoa of Attalos shopping arcade built in the 2nd century BC and totally reconstructed in the 1950s. Tues-Sun 8:30am3pm. 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 changingof-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

Pallas Theatre Skoufa 77 & Staikou 2, Kolonaki Athens, Tel: 210 364 0783 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, Tel: 210. 364.0288 The Art Foundation (TAF) Normanou 5, Monastiraki, Tel: 210.323.8757 The Eynard Mansion Aghiou Konstantinou 20 & Menandrou, Athens 104 31, Tel: 210 322 1335 The National Art Gallery and Alexander Soutzos Museum Michalakopoulou 1 - Vas. Constantinou 1, 115 28 Athens, Tel: 210-7235857 Titanium Yiayiannos Vas. Konstantinou 44, Pangrati, Tel: 210.729.7644 Tsatsis Project/ Artforum 12 Mitropoleos st. & Venizelou PC 54624 Thessaloniki, Tel: 231 025 7552 Xippas Gallery Sofokleous 53D, 105 52 Athens, Greece, Tel: 210 331 9333 Zoumboulakis Gallery Kolonaki Square 20, Kolonaki Tel: 210.360.8278 Zoumboulakis Gallery Graphics & Editions Kriezotou 6, Syntagma, Tel: 210.363.4454

Attractions & Sites

ORGANISED TOURS

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

Goulandris Museum of Natural History Levidou 13, Kifissia.

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

Kydathinaeon 17, Plaka, Tel: 210.322.9031 Museum of Children’s Art Kodrou 9, Plaka, Tel: 210.331.22621 www.childrensartmuseum.gr

Summit The Wall Sport Climbing Center Ag. Athanasiou 12, Pallini, Tel: 210.603.0093, www.summit.gr Westin Kids Club Apollonos 40, Vouliagmeni, Tel: 210.890.2000 http://www.westinathens.com/en/westin_kids_club/

insider athens | November & December 2013 65

partner hotels ARION RESORT & SPA

ATHENS LEDRA MARRIOTT HOTEL

DIVANI APOLLON PALACE & SPA

Holiday Suites

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

314 deluxe guest rooms, 18 suites. Rooftop swimming pool and bar, health club, Kona Kai Polynesian - Tepanyiaki Restaurant and sports bar. Syngrou 115. Tel: 210.930.0000

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

Elegant, all-suite hotel offering high standard accommodation. Each suite provides guests with a separate living room and kitchenette.

Arnis 4. Tel: 210.727.8000

CIVITEL ATTIK

DIVANI CARAVEL

KEFALARI SUITES

ATHENAEUM INTERCONTINENTAL ATHENS

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. Tel: 210.920.6000

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

Situated close to major tourist attractions with, rooftop restaurant and swimming pool.

Vas. Alexandrou 2, Tel: 210.720.7000

Turn-of-the-century hotel in Kifissia, part of YES! Hotels.Themed suites with modern facilities. Pentelis 1, Kifissia. Tel: 210.623.3333

CIVITEL OLYMPIC

DIVANI PALACE ACROPOLIS

KING GEORGE

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

Located at the base of the Acropolis and close to Plaka. Pool with bar, roof garden restaurant with Acropolis view. Parthenonos 19-25.

Makrigianni. Tel: 210.928.0100

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

ATHENIAN CALLIRHOE HOTEL

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

Kallirois 32 & Petmeza. Tel: 210.921.5353

GRANDE BRETAGNE

LIFE GALLERY

COCO-MAT HOTEL NAFSIKA

ATHENS ELECTRA PALACE HOTEL

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

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

Pellis 6, Tel: 210.801.8027

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

Crowne plaza

Holiday Inn Attica Avenue

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. Tel: 210.727.8000

New five-star property on Attica Avenue linking Athens with the international airport. Stateof-the art conference facilities, restaurant, two bars, pool and fitness center. 40.2 km Attica Road, between exits 17 & 18.

Tel: 210.668.9000

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 MELIÁ ATHENS

ATHENS HILTON

508 renovated rooms, two pools, banquet rooms restaurants, convention facilities, business centre & spa. The rooftop Galaxy bar has gorgeous city views. Vas. Sofias 46. Tel: 210.728.1000

66 insider athens | November & December 2013

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.

Tel: 210.332.0100

partner hotels METROPOLITAN

SEMIRAMIS

THE WESTIN ATHENS

Beautifully renovated property with views of the sea and the Acropolis. Ten minutes from central Athens, the port of Piraeus and main exhibition centers. Syngrou 385. Tel: 210.947.1000

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

NEW

SOFITEL ATHENS AIRPORT

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

Fresh Hotel

Situated in the heart of old Athens within walking distance of the Plaka. Enjoy the Orange Bar, rooftop restaurant and pool. Sophocleous 26 & Klisthenous. Tel: 210.524.8511 Herodion

TITANIA HOTEL

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 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 NJV athens plaza

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 ST. GEORGE LYCABETTUS HOTEL

HOTEL ELECTRA

Located in the heart of the historical and commercial center. The recently refurbished suites and rooms combine style with comfort. Awarded Gourmet Restaurant “Olive Garden”, underground garage, fitness center.

Panepistimiou 52 , Tel: 210.332600 TwentyOne

Within walking distance from all archaeological sites, business and commercial districts.

Includes bar, restaurant, lobby and meeting areas. Ermou 5, Syntagma. Tel: 210.337.8000 PERISCOPE HOTEL

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, Athens Tel: 210 3352400

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 THEOXENIA PALACE HOTEL

NOVOTEL

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

Philippos

A CATEGORY Recently refurbished, all 50 rooms are wellappointed and comfortable. Good value for money. Mitseon 3, Akropolis. Tel: 210.922.3611-4

AVA HOTEL & SUITES

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 Mikhail Voda Street Tel: 210.820.0700

17 rooms, 4 junior suites and a super-lux penthouse suite. Part of YES! Hotels. Haritos 22, Kolonaki. Tel: 210.729.7200

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 THE MARGI

Royal Olympic

COSTA NAVARINO The Westin Resort Costa Navarino

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 amarilia hotel

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.

Messinia, Tel: 27230.95000 The Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort

Near the Acropolis Museum. 265 rooms and 45 unique Panorama Suites, overlooking the Temple of Zeus and the Acropolis. Pool, business center, convention and banquet facilities.

Roof Garden Restaurant/Bar “Ioannis”. 28-34, Ath. Diakou Str., Tel: 210.928.8400

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

An excellent choice for business and leisure travellers. 100 renovated rooms and suites with great sea views, meeting and banqueting facilities, outdoor swimming pool. Ag. Nikolaou 13 Vouliagmeni. Tel. 210 8990391

289 exquisitely appointed rooms and 32 suites with individual infinity pools. Traditional Greek design with contemporary touches. Messinia, Tel: 27230.96000

insider athens | November & December 2013 67

AUDIOVISUAL OTE video conference service 7.30am-10pm.

Patission 85. Tel: 210.883.8578, 210.822.0399 TCS M. Antipa 20 & 2 Prometheus, Tel: 210.976.7086

COMPUTER & CELL-PHONE RENTAL TrimTel Mobile Communications Michalakopoulou 41, Tel: 210.729.1964

Commercial Office spaces Regus Tel: 210 727 9000 Global Business Services Tel: 210-8764 876 Kifissias Ave. 90, Maroussi

COURIER SERVICES ACS Tel: 210.819.0000 DHL Tel: 210.989.0000 Express City Tel: 210.821.9959 Geniki Taxydromiki Tel: 210.485.1100 Interattika Tel: 210.540.5400 Speedex Tel: 801.11.000.11 UPS Tel: 210.998.4000

Driving Schools in English Denis Kasimatis - Driving School Zografou, Papagou, Ilissia, Psychiko, Cholargos and Goudi - Tel: 210 778 3157 210 779 6981 Trochokinisi Driving School 28th Oktovriou 126, Ambelokipi, Athens Tel: 231 072 9092 Driving School Highway Amfitheas and Ag. Triados 30, 175 64 Paleo Faliro - Tel: 210 988 8098 / 6997 722 777 Vlachos Bros 25th Martiou 11, Peristeri; Xenofodos 17, Peristeri; Afroditis 39, Ilion Tel: 210 574 4895 / 210 576 9190

Relocation Agencies Allied Pickfords Tel: 210 610 4494 Mourouzi 7, Athens Athens Relocation Centre Tel: 210 96 50 697, Zakynthou 10, Attica Movers Tel: 210 922 7221 19, Syngrou Ave Celebrity International Movers 102, Kapodistriou Ave, Tel: 210 272 0106 Corporate Relocations Athens Tel: 210 800 3510, Ag. Saranta 32 Nea Erithrea Orphee Beinoglou Tel: 210 9466100 27th km Old National Road Athens-Korinth Location Elefsinia, GR-19200 Elefsina Omega Transport Thesi Kyrilos, 19300 Aspropyrgos Tel: 210 947 5500 Octopus Relocation Services Ygeias 7, Marina Zeas, Tel: 210 4599530

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68 insider athens | November & December 2013

TRANSLATIONS / INTERPRETING Executive services, translation & interpreting All EU and Balkan languages - legal, technical and medical documents. Athens Tower B. Tel:Â 210.778.3698 www.executiveservices.gr Global Business Services Kifisias 90, Maroussi. Tel: 210.876.4876 IBS - International Business Services Michalakopoulou 29, Tel: 210.724.5541

Travel Agencies Travel Plan Tel: 210 333 3300 www.travelplan.gr Amphitrion Tel: 210 900 6000 Meg Alexandrou 7 & Karaiskaki, www.amphitrionholidays.gr TravelPlanet24 Tel: 211 107 9684 241, Syngrou Ave. & 2, Alikarnassou 171 22 Nea Smyrni, Athens www.travelplanet24.com Mid-east Travel Tel: 211 211 8888 Vas Sofias 105-107 / www.mideast.gr

Embassies Cultural Institutes

Business services

useful information

French Institute Sina 31, 10680 Athens Tel: 210 339 8600 Hellenic American Union Massalias 22, 10680 Athens, Tel: 210 368 0900 British Council 17 Kolonaki Square 17 106 73 Athens Tel: 210 369 2333 Instituto Cervantes Mitropoleos 23, 105 57 Athens Tel: 210 3634117 Goethe Institut Omirou 14-16, 100 33 Athens Tel: 210 3661000 Onassis Cultural Centre Syngrou Ave. 107-109, 117 45 Athens, Tel: 213 017 8000 Instituto Italiano di Cultura Patission [28 Oktovriou] 47 Tel: 210 369 2333, 210 524 2646 ALBANIA Vekiareli 7, Filothei, Tel: 210.687.6200 ALGERIA Vas. Constantinou 14 Tel: 210.756.4191-2 ARGENTINA Vas. Sophias 59. Tel: 210.724.4158 ARMENIA K. Palaiologou 95, Tel: 210.683.1130, 210.683.1145 AUSTRALIA Kifisias & Alexandras, Tel: 210.870.4000 AUSTRIA Vas. Sofias Avenue 4, Tel: 210.725.7270

AZERBAiJAN Skoufa 10.

Tel: 210.363.2721 BELGIUM Sekeri 3, Tel: 210.360.0314 BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA Hatzikosta 3. Tel: 210.641.0788 BRAZIL Filikis Etaireias Sq. 14.

Tel: 210.721.3039 BULGARIA Stratigou Kallari 33A, P. Psychiko. Tel: 210.674.8105 CANADA Ioanni Gennadiou 4.

Tel: 210.727.3400 CHILE Kifisias 317A Tel: 210.807.1020 CHINA Krinon 2A, P. Psychiko.

Tel: 210.672.3282 CROATIA Tzavella 4, N. Psychiko.

Tel: 210.677.7033 CUBA Sofokleous 5, Filothei.

Tel: 210.685.5550 CYPRUS Xenofontos 2A. Tel: 210.373.4800 CZECH REPUBLIC G. Seferi 6, P. Psychiko. Tel: 210.671.9701 DENMARK Mourouzi 10.

Tel: 210.725.6440 EGYPT Vas. Sofias 3. Tel: 210.361.8612 ESTONIA Messoghion 2-4.

Tel: 210.747.5660 FINLAND Hatziyianni Mexi 5.

Tel: 210.725.5860 FRANCE Vas. Sofias 7. Tel: 210.339.1000 FYROM Papadiamanti 4, P. Psychiko.

Tel: 210.674.9585 GEORGIA Ag. Dimitriou 24, P. Psychiko. Tel: 210.674.2186 GERMANY Karaoli & Dimitriou 3.

Tel: 210.728.5111 HUNGARY Karneadou 25.

Tel: 210.725.6800 INDIA Kleanthous 3. Tel: 210.721.6481 INDONESIA Marathonodromon 99, P. Psychiko. Tel: 210.674.2345 IRAN Stratigou Kallari 16.

Tel: 210.674.1436 IRELAND Vas. Konstantinou 7.

Tel: 210.723.2405 ISRAEL Marathonodromon 1, P. Psychiko. Tel: 210.670.5500 ITALY Sekeri 2. Tel: 210.361.7260 JAPAN Ethnikis Antistaseos 46, Halandri.

Tel: 210.670.9900 JORDAN Papadiamanti 21. P. Psychiko.

Tel: 210.674.4161 Kazakhstan Imittou 122, Papagou Tel: 210.654.7765 KOREA Messoghion 2-4, Athens.

Tel: 210.698.4080 KUWAIT Perikleous 2, P. Psychiko. Tel: 210.674.3593

Ambulance Tel: 166 Doctors SOS Tel: 1016.

They will issue an invoice to claim reimbursement from your insurer.

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 Coastguard Tel:108 Air Police Tel: 210.964.2000

EUROCLINIC PAEDON Lemessou 39-41 & Aharnon 209, Kato Patissia, Tel: 210.869.1900 PAEDON AGIA SOFIA HOSPITAL Mikras Asias and Thivon, Goudi. Tel: 210.746.7000 PAEDON AGLAIA KYRIAKOU HOSPITAL Livadias 3 and Thivon, Goudi. Tel: 210.772.6000 & 1535

Private Hospitals Advanced Medical Services, Symmetria Building Ethnikis Antistaseos 66, Halandri.

Tel: 210.677.3573 www.symmetria.gr CENTRAL CLINIC OF ATHENS Asklipiou St. 31. Emergency number 1169 or Tel: 210.367.4000 www.centralclinic.gr EUROCLINIC diagnostic, surgical and treatment centre. Athanasiadou 9. (near Mavili Sq.). Tel: 210.641.6600 EURODENTICA Specialized dental care Patision 150, Tel: 210. 866.3367-8 Alamanas 3, Maroussi. Tel: 210.619.5760-1 El. Venizelou 162, Kallithea.

Tel: 210.956.5365 HYGEIA 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 ROAD ASSISTANCE ELPA Tel: 10400 Emergency Service Tel: 104 Express Service Tel: 154 Hellas Service Tel: 1057 Interamerican Tel: 168 Tourist Information Tel: 174

ASKLEPIEION HOSPITAL Vas. Pavlou 1, Voula. Tel: 210.895.8301-4 EVANGELISMOS Ypsilantou 45-47, Kolonaki. Tel: 210.720.1000 KAT HOSPITAL specialized trauma unit. Nikis 2, Kifissia.

Tel: 210.628.0000

TZANNEIO Afentouli & Tzani, Pireaus.

Tel: 210.451.9411-9

PHYSICIANS (ENGLISH SPEAKING) Ioannis Bitzos, MD Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Harilaou Trikoupi 62 Kifissia. Tel: 210.808.0682 A.J. Kanellopoulos, MD Eye Surgeon, Mesogeion 2, Athens Tower B’ Tel: 210.747.2777 Dimitris Linos, MD FACS General Surgeon, Kifissias 227, Kifissia.

Tel: 210.612.5001-2 heart & vascular centrE E.N. Deliargyris, MD FACC FSCAI Interventional cardiologist. Southern Athens. Vakchou 2 & Vas. Kostantinou Tel:210.897.6276. www.heartline.gr

English media

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

Paediatric Hospitals

Newspapers The International Herald Tribune carries the English version of Kathimerini Athens Insider, the bi-monthly magazine for Greece

Radio Athens International Radio 104,4 Good Morning Athens at 10am, english programs at 11am, music programs on weekdays at 9pm, weekends at 1pm

Schools

Greek Language

SWITZERLAND Iasiou 2, Tel: 210.723.0364-6 TAIWAN Marathonodromon 57, Tel: 210.677.5122 Representative office THAILAND Marathorodromon 25 & Kyprou, P. Psychiko. Tel: 210.674.9065 TUNISIA Antheon 2, P. Psychiko, Tel: 210.671.7590 TURKEY Vas. Georgiou B’ 8, Tel: 210.726.3000 UKRAINE Stephanou Delta 4, Filothei, Tel: 210.680.0230 UNITED KINGDOM Ploutarchou 1.

Tel: 210.727.2600 UNITED STATES Vas. Sofias 91.

Tel: 210.721.2951 URUGUAY Menandrou 1, Kifissia Tel: 210.361.3549 VATICAN Mavili 2, P. Psychiko.

Tel: 210.674.3598 VENEZUELA Marathonodromon 19, P. Psychiko. Tel: 210.672.9169 VIETNAM Yakinthon 50, Psychiko. Tel. 210.612.8733, 210.675.3080.

Emergencies

LEBANON 6, 25th Martiou, P. Psychiko.

Tel: 210.675.5873 LIBYA Vyronos 13, P. Psychiko.

Tel: 210.674.2120 LITHUANIA Vas. Sophias 49.

Tel: 210.729.4356 LATVIA Vas. Konstantinou 38.

Tel. 210.729.4483 LUXEMBOURG Vas. Sofias 23A & Neofitou Vamva 2.Tel: 210.725.6400 MALTA V. Sofias 96.Tel: 210.778.5138 MEXICO Filikis Etaireias Sq. 14.

Tel: 210.729.4780 MOLDAVIA Georgiou Bacu 20, Filothei.

Tel: 210.699.0660 MOROCCO Marathonodromon 5, P. Psychiko. Tel: 210.674.4210 NETHERLANDS Vas Konstantinou 5-7.

Tel: 210.725.4900 NIGERIA Dolianis 65, Maroussi.

Tel: 210.802.1188 NORWAY Vas. Sofias 23.

Tel: 210.724.6173 PAKISTAN Loukianou 6.

Tel: 210.729.0122 PALESTINE Giassemion 13, P. Psychiko. Tel.: 210.672.6061-3 PANAMA Praxitelous 192 & II Merarchias, Piraeus. Tel: 210.428.6441 PERU Semitelou 2. Tel: 210.779.2761 PHILIPPINES Antheon 26, P. Psychiko.

Tel: 210.672.1837 POLAND Chrysanthemon 22, P. Psychiko. Tel: 210.679.7700 PORTUGAL Vas. Sofias 23.

Tel: 210.729.0096 / 210.723.6784 QATAR Rigillis 16A Tel: 210.725.5031 ROMANIA Emm. Benaki 7, P. Psychiko. Tel: 210.672.8875 RUSSIA Nikiforos Lytra 28, P. Psychiko. Tel: 210.672.5235 SAUDIA ARABIA Palaiologhou 2 & Agias Annis Tel: 210.671.6911 SERBIA Vas. Sophias 106, Tel: 210.777.4344 SINGAPORE Aigialias 17, Paradissos Amaroussiou. Tel: 210.684.5072 SLOVAK REPUBLIC G. Seferi 4, P. Psychiko. Tel: 210.677.1980 SLOVENIA Mavili 10, Tel: 210.672.0090-091 SOUTH AFRICA Kifissias 60, Maroussi.

Tel: 210.610.6645 SPAIN Dionysiou Areopagitou 21, Tel: 210.921.3123 SWEDEN Vas. Konstantinou 7, Tel: 210.726.6100

Health

useful information

The Athens Center 48 Archimidous Street, Mets, Athens 11636, Greece 210 7015-242 CELT Athens 77 Academias Street, 106 78 Athens, Greece, Tel: 210 3301455 Greek House Dragoumi 7, 145 61 Kifissia, Tel: 210 808 5186 Hellenic American Union 22 Massalias str., 106 80 Athens, Tel: 210368.0900 Omilo Greek Language And Culture Panagi Tsaldari 13 (4th floor), 15122 Maroussi, Tel: 210 6122706

insider athens | November & December 2013 69

useful information

Public Power Corporation (DEI) In case of power failure: Tel: 210, 523 9939 www.dei.gr

Weather Attica, Tel: 148, www.hnms.gr

Water Supply & Sewage (EYDAP) In case of water cut: Tel: 1202, www.eydap.gr

Citizen’s Rights Ombudsman: 5 Hatziyiannis Mexis (near the Hilton Hotel), Tel: 210 72 89 640

Universities University of Indianapolis Ipitou 9, Athens, Tel: 210 323 6647 DEREE Gravias 6, Aghia Paraskevi, Tel: 210 600 9800

ALBA Graduate Business School Athinas Ave. & Areos 2A, Vouliagmeni Tel: 210 896 4531 American University of Athens Kifisias & Sochou 4, Neo Psichiko, Tel: 210 725 9301 Business College of Athens Tatoiou 2 & Othonos 77, Kifissia Tel: 210 808 8008

International Kindergartens

International Schools

St Catherine's British Embassy School Sofoklis Venizelou 77, Lykovrissi Tel: 210 282 9750 St. Lawrence College Anemon St, Koropi Tel: 210 891 7000 American Community Schools of Athens Aghias Paraskevis Ave. 129, Halandri, Tel: 210 639 3200 Campion School Aghias Ioulianis, Pallini Tel: 210 607 1700 Byron College Filolaou 7, Gerakas Tel: 210 604 7722 International School of Athens Xenias and Artemidos, Kifissia, Tel: 210 623 3888 Lycée Franco-Hellénique Eugène Delacroix Chlois & Trikalon, Ag. Paraskevi Tel: 211 300 9121 Scuola Statale Italiana Odos Mitsaki 18, Ano Patissia Tel: 210 228 2720 German School in Athens Homatianou & Ziridi, Maroussi Tel: 210 619 9261 Greek German School 25 Martiou & Vernardou, Vrylissia Tel: 210 682 0566

70 insider athens | November & December 2013

English kindergartens The Cottage Kindergarten Psaron 74, Halandri Tel: 210 682 7629 Early Learning Rizountos 53, Elliniko Tel: 210 961 8763 Hopscotch International Kindergarten Ag. Triandos 93, Vari Tel: 210 965 3985 Kifissia Montessori School Ellinikon Stratou 5, Kifissia Tel: 210 620 7481 Melina’s Kindergarten Harilaou Trikoupi 16, Kifissia Tel: 210 801 2719 Peek-a-boo PreSchool Vougliameni Tel: 210 967 1970 Peter Pan Lakonias 4-6, Voula Tel: 210 895 9654 Prince Allen The English Nursery School Lysimahou 8, Vari Tel: 210 965 6800

Money

Public Services Administration Information Center (paperwork assistance) on weekdays 8am-3pm (KEP): Tel: 177, ww.kep.gov.gr

National Library Tzavella 25, Tel: 210 382 0657 Benakeios Library Anthimou Gazi 2, Tel: 210 322 71 Nordic Library 7 Kavalotti St, Tel: 210 9249210 and 210 9249211

LOST OR STOLEN CREDIT CARDS

Post offices operate weekdays 8am-2pm. The main post offices in Athens are located at SYNTAGMA SQUARE and OMONIA SQUARE at Aeolou 100 and open weekdays 7:30am-8pm, Sat 7:30am-2pm, and Sun 9am-1:30pm.

German kindergartens O mikros Antonis Barbayiannis, Pallini, Tel: 210 603 2527

Italian kindergartens Scuola maternal italiana de Atene Mitsaki 18, Ano Patissia, Tel: 210 202 0274 Il Mulino magico Troados 23, Ag Paraskevi, Tel: 210 600 3148 British Council Library Kolonaki Sq. 17 Tel: 210 363 3211/5 American Library Masalias 22 (4th floor) Tel: 210 363 8114 American School of Classical Studies Blegen Souedias 54, Tel: 210 723 6313 Athens College Library Stephanou Delta, P. Psychiko Tel: 210 671 4628 Hellenic American Union Greek Library 22 Masalias St (7th floor), Tel: 210 362 9886 French Institute Library 31 Sina St, Tel: 210 362 4301 German Archaeological Institute Library Pheidiou 1, Tel: 210 362 0270 Goethe Institute Library Omirou 14-16, Tel: 210 360 8111 Italian Institut Library Patision 47, Tel: 210 522 9294 EU Library Vas. Sophias 2, Tel: 210 724 3982

AMERICAN EXPRESS Tel: 210.326.2626 DINERS CLUB Tel: 210.929.0200 EUROCARD Tel: 210.950.3673 MASTERCARD Tel: 00800.1188.70303, VISA Tel: 00.800.1163.803.04

Country Code: 30 City Code: 210 international calls first dial 00, then the country code.

To call from a Public pay- phone buy a phone card at the kiosks.

Prepaid mobile phone cards (SIM cards) are available for €5 at kiosks, post offices, mini markets and mobile phone company stores.

Phone

Greek Manpower Employment Organization (OAED) www.oaed.gr, Tel: 210 99 89 000

Au petit bonheur 50 Iraklitou, Glyfada, Tel: 210 9658 207 Les Alouettes Spartis 36 & Harilaou Trikoupi, Kifissia Tel: 210 80 11 570 L’Air des Contes 11, Cycladon, Glyka Nera, Tel : 210 600 3196 Le Castelet 18 Gortinias, Kifissia, Tel: 210 808 7760 Mary Poppins 4, Kodrou, Filothei, Tel: 210 677 3803 Play and Learn Kassaveti 22, Kifissia, Tel: 210 801 1428

Libraires

Road Assistance ELPA: 104

Social Security & Health insurance (IKA) www.ika.gr

Post

French kindergartens Telephone & Internet Services (OTE) New tel: 138, Tel. (defective): 129 OTE customer service: 134 International call information (English, French & German): 169 www.ote.gr

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Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport, Spata.

Tel: 210.353.0000, 210.353.1000. www.aia.gr.

24 HOUR VIP TRANSPORT SERVICE

Car rental

WSW Skycap Services at Athens Airport provides Meet & Greet, Baggage Hauling and Transport Service.

Tel: 210.353.0100 www.skycap.gr For info about the public bus lines please check our section Getting Around Ada Rent-a-Car Tel: 210.322.0087 Arena Tel: 210.894.6883, 210.614.7400 Auto Union Tel: 210.922.1211/1213 Avis Tel: 210.322.4951 Budget Tel: 210.921.4771-3 Europcar Tel: 210.924.8810-8 Hertz Tel: 210.998.2000 Michael Stamou Luxury Rentals Tel: 210.922.2442/43 Sixt Rent-a-Car Tel: 210.570.6895, 210.922.0171

LIMOUSINES AAA Royal Prestige Tel: 210.988.3221 Astra Limousine Service Tel: 210.922.0333/807.9996 Convecta Travel Agency & Limousine Services Tel: 210.322.5090 Limousines Kakaya Tel: 210.323.4120

Public transport

Airport

Airlines

Aegean Tel: 801.11.20000 Air France KLM Tel: 210.998.0222 Air Malta Tel: 210.965.2300-22 Alitalia Tel: 210.998.8888 American Tel: 210.361.3373 Air Taxis (Helicopter and plane charters) Tel: 210.938.4149 British Airways Tel: 801.11.56000 BMI Tel: 210.960.0942 Continental Tel: 210.353.4312 Cyprus Airways Tel: 210.353.4100 Delta Tel: 210.331.1673-6 Easy Jet Tel: 210.353.0300 El Al Tel: 210.934.1500-1 Emirates Tel: 210.933.3400 Etihad Tel: 210.960.56.08 Iberia Tel: 210.353.6004 Lufthansa Tel: 210.617.5200 Olympic Airways Tel: 210.966.6666 Qatar Airways Tel: 210.950.8700 Swiss / Crossair Tel: 210.617.5320 Tunisair Tel: 210 3220104-5 Turkish Tel: 210.353.7280-2

Combined tickets for metro, buses and trolleys (€1,40) are available from metro stations and central ticket booths, valid within 90 mins of validation for all public transport - except the airport service, which costs 8€.

EXPRESS BUS from/to airport

X93 Kifisos Intercity Bus Station - Athens Airport Express.

Direct Connection to the intercity bus (KTEL) terminals KIFISOS and LIOSION X95 Syntagma – Athens Airport Express.

Direct Connection to Syntagma Square at Athens city center.

X96 Peiraias – Athens Airport Express.

Direct Connection to Piraeus central passenger port terminals.

X97 Dafni Metro Station – Athens Airport Express.

Direct Connection to DAFNI metro station. Tickets available at the Arrivals Hall; validate on board. Fare is €5 One-way travel time estimates**: X93 (65’ min), X95 (70’ min), X96 (90’ min), X97 (70’ min).

For further information dial 185 or visit www.oasa.gr, www.ametro.gr. For info on trains visit www.proastiakos.gr

HELLENIC RAILWAYS ORGANIsATION Karolou 1. Tel: 210.529.7002, www.ose.gr

ATHENS METRO Line 1 (Piraeus-Kifissia) 5am-midnight, Line 2 (Agios Antonios-Agios Dimitrios) 5.30am-midnight, Line 3 (Egaleo-

Doukissis Plakentias) 5.30am-midnight Line 3 (Egaleo-Airport) 5.30am-22.52pm and 06.30am-23.30pm.

The last itinerary is 2 hours later on Friday and Saturday night than it is during the week. www.ametro.gr

tram Tram itineraries are only from Syntagma to S.E.F (in Neo Faliro) and from Syntagma to Asklipio Voulas. From Monday to Thursday, trams operate from 5.am until midnight and non-stop from Friday morning to Sunday midnight. www.tramsa.gr

TAXIS from the airport cost about €20 to Syntagma Square, €25 to Piraeus, depending on traffic. Between midnight and 5am double tariff applies.

Note: If you suspect that you have been overcharged, you can call the tourist police 0n 171

INTERCITY BUSES Terminal 1: Buses for Igoumenitsa, Ioannina, Kavala, Loutraki, Patra, the Peloponese, and Thessaloniki. Kifissou 100Tel: 210.512.4910-1, www.ktel.org Terminal 2: Buses for Delphi, Evia, Galaxidi, Karpenisi, Katerini, Lamia, Livadia, Thiva and Volos. Liosion 260.

For KTEL itineraries all over Greece call 14505

RADIO TAXI Enotita Tel: 210.645.9000 Ermis Tel: 210.411.5200 Ikarus Tel: 210.515.2800 Kifissia Tel: 210.801.4000 Piraeus Tel: 210.418.2333 Radio Taxi Glyfada Tel: 210.960.5600 There is a booking fee of €2 added to the meter, and a €3,40 + VAT for a pre-arranged meeting. For PET taxis there is an extra charge of €5.

Sea ports Lavrio Tel: 22920.27711, 22920.22089 Piraeus Tel: 210.422.6000-4 Rafina Tel: 22940.22300, 22940.28888

Sea ports & Ferries

getting around Ferries Ferries run year-round. For information on seasonal schedules contact a travel agent or call the Port Police on 210.422.6000 From the Port of Piraeus Northern and Eastern Aegean Islands: Gates A & B Chios, Ikaria, Lesvos, Samos, Dodecanese Islands: Gate E Kalymnos, Kos Leros, Patmos, Rhodes, Saronic Gulf Islands:

Gates G & E

Aegina, Hydra, Poros, Spetses, Crete: Gate A Aghios Nikolaos, Chania, Iraklio, Kastelli (Kissamos), Rethymno, Cycladic Islands:

Gates B, G & D

Astipalea, Folegandros, Kimolos, Kithnos, Milos, Serifos, Sifnos: Gate B Amorgos, Donoussa, Ios, Iraklia, Koufonissi, Mykonos, Santorini, Schinoussa, Syros, Tinos: Gates G&D Naxos, Paros: Gate G

Superfast Ferries Daily departures, Greece - Italy: from Patras and Igoumenitsa to Ancona and Bari Head office: 23-125 Syngrou Avenue & 3 Torva Street 11745 Athens.

Tel:210.891.9000 Reservations: Athens: 210.891.9130 Thessaloniki: 2310.560.700, www.superfast.com Hellenic Seaways 210 41 99 000 www.hellenicseaways.gr, Anek Lines www.anek.gr Domestic lines: 210 41 97 420 International lines: 210 41 97 430 Minoan Lines www.minoan.gr Tel:801 11 75 000

YACHT CHARTERS A1 Yacht Trade Consortium Akti Themistokleous 8, Marina Zeas, Piraeus. Tel: 210.458.7100 Ghiolman Yachts Filellinon 7, Syntagma. Tel: 210.323.0330 Nava Yachts Loudovikou Sq. 6, Piraeus.

Tel: 210.417.7728 Northstar Poseidonos 54, 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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Athens celebrates its indomitable spirit Athenians thronged under a warm November sun to cheer a record 30,000 participants at the 31st Athens Classic Marathon on November 10. More than a tough race of 42,195m, the marathon is a sporting event; a bridge that unifies legend with history; it showcases the strength of human will; it is emblematic of friendship and solidarity. This year’s marathon was won by Yego Hillary Kipkogei in 2:13.50. Proving that age is no barrier, (6) legendary composer Mikis Theodorakis joins the run (file picture) and (7) Athens Insider friend Vangelis Makris is all smiles after finishing his 10k race.

72 insider athens | November & December 2013

www.omegawatches.com

IN THEIR OWN LITTLE WORLDS The tiny precision components in our mechanical movements dance to the rhythm of our lives – and they have been with us on some of mankind’s greatest adventures.

ATHENS • 2 Voukourestiou Str. • +30 210 32 27 682 Opening hours: Mon-Wed-Sat: 09:00-17:00, Tue-Thu-Fri: 09:00-20:30