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Chat With Luxury Travel Expert Cleo Anderson

Cleo Anderson, a luxury travel expert, and the Principal and Founder of multi-award-winning PR agency The Anderson Group, recently landed her own travel show with LUXE.TV.

In less than a year since its premiere, the talented media personality has already won ‘Broadcast Media Host and Producer of the Year 2023’ for ‘Wanderluxe with Cleo Anderson’ at the Influential Businesswoman Awards.

From carefully sourcing the finest stays in the world – to place inside each impressive Oscar nominee gift bag, to finding unique ways to launch new products for high-end brands – no two days are the same for Cleo, who loves travelling the world and sharing her 5-star experiences.

We recently had a chat with Cleo about luxury travel, her time filming LUXE.TV in Athens, as well as her favourite getaways. Read on to discover more.

Insights Greece - Chat With Luxury Travel Expert Cleo Anderson

What have been some of your career highlights so far?

I feel that anyone who builds something of their own and sustains that over some time has managed to do something that many do not, so for me that is an overarching accomplishment. Lately, there have also been some really exciting highlights, including being hailed a luxury travel expert in Forbes in 2020, which was fantastic. Early on in my PR career, landing the UK contract to do the PR for Monte Carlo SBM’s 150th Anniversary was a career highlight, as they are such a revered brand in the hotel world. Being crowned the Luxury Travel Curator for The Oscar Nominee gift bag has been great, too, but landing my travel show with LUXE.TV – ‘Wanderluxe with Cleo Anderson’ – has been the pinnacle of my career to date and is a dream job – it’s something I have wanted to do for a while.

As owner of an award-winning luxury PR agency, what do you enjoy most about your work?

I love the variety in terms of the types of clients we work with; working with luxury hotels, I will often visit and stay to get a feel for what they have to offer. I have visited a myriad of places like Cambodia, Bali, Turkey, Vietnam, and Monaco on client visits, which has been great. We also work with some gorgeous luxury products; recently we worked with a standout luxury olive oil made in Greece, which we did a fantastic global PR campaign for. Whether it be working on a campaign for gourmet vegan chocolates or a boutique hotel in some remote place, no two days are the same, so it’s never boring.

When did your passion for travel begin?

In the early days, it was a trip I did with a group of friends and my sister – we went to Miami’s South Beach. That was my first transatlantic girl’s trip and that piqued my interest in world travel. Shortly after that, I went to Thailand with another group of friends, and it became a habit to visit new places when I was able. Once I started, I realised that I was born to travel the world.

In the year 2023, how would you define “Luxury Travel”?

People are travelling more than ever after being grounded for so long, and I believe that luxury travel is about the individualised, bespoke travel itinerary. For me, that’s what 2023 travel is all about following the pandemic.

What type of travel experiences do you think people are currently searching for?

I feel that it has given people a new perspective on life, and I think that people are looking to tick off their big bucket list trips. People want to live their lives more fully than before.

What have been a few standout hotels you’ve recently visited?

We work with a company in Germany that converts lighthouses into luxury boutique hotels – one such hotel in the Canary Islands, Spain is Faro Cumplida. That stay was fantastic, and the location is great. Al Sahel by Anantara in Abu Dhabi was also an enjoyable stay; Anantara is one of my favourite hotel brands, and Al Sahel, in particular, is a nature lover’s dream. The dwellings have a ‘glamping’ feel – luxury on the inside, with a gorgeous setting and a much-needed plunge pool for the heat. I have memories of sitting on the patio with my morning coffee and watching the wildlife -deer, peacocks, and more – stroll past me completely unfazed. It was beautiful.

On the Athenian Riviera, Dolce by Wyndham in Vravrona was a pleasant find. It’s a delightful family resort, but many people don’t know that it also has a handful of private villas with your own private butler, private pool and stunning sea views. I stayed there during filming, and we feature the villa on the show. It was a gorgeous stay. I also love the Four Seasons Astir Palace.

One of your most memorable getaways?

I remember a stay at a hotel called Argos in Cappadocia; the location is like nowhere else on earth. The terrain is out of this world, and the landscape is incredible. In the mornings you can watch scores of hot air balloons rise into the sky and I loved going up in a hot air balloon myself one morning, with a champagne and strawberries breakfast laid out once we landed. It is a unique place and a must-see for anyone who loves travel.

Tell us more about your new travel series ‘Wanderluxe With Cleo Anderson’.

It’s a brand-new luxury travel show that premiered on LUXE.TV earlier this year, with 462 million subscribers in 65 countries. Each episode features different ways to enjoy luxury, from exclusive hotels and resorts to unique experiences in each location. The show is available to watch in Greece on Cosmote TV and Vodafone, as well as other channels. The cinematography is beautiful, and it’s a dream to film.

Your first series is based in Athens. Can you share some of your favourite experiences filming in the Greek capital?

We feature several gorgeous places, including a penthouse with Acropolis views. It was beautiful to wake up to that historical view in the morning after filming – I never get tired of it. Walking around Plaka and filming there was stunning; the Greek people were really hospitable and interested in what we were doing, so it was fun. We also enjoyed going out to sea – we wanted to highlight the things that people don’t seem to know about both Greece and Athens; being in Greece is not just about visiting the islands – the Athens Riviera also has a lot to offer and it’s so close to the city centre.

What are a few of your favourite Greek islands?

Visually, Santorini for me is the most elegant and beautiful island. I also enjoyed Mykonos – walks around the island are just lovely. In my teen years, I would visit Skiathos and Rhodes with my sister each year, so I’ve been coming to Greece for some time and know it pretty well. There are always more places to explore, which is what I love about Greece.

What do you always pack with you when travelling?

I always have my laptop so that I can keep up with work – it’s my portable office. A good face and body moisturiser is a must and is always in my bag. My portable speaker by Bose goes everywhere with me, especially if I’m going to be poolside. Vaseline for my lips is essential – the small tins with cocoa butter are perfect. I also switched from sugar to Stevia last year, so I always keep liquid Stevia in my bag for my coffee in the morning. When travelling I also make sure I have a chic bathing suit or two with me – in Athens, I really enjoyed swimming in the sea.

Finally, if you could go anywhere tomorrow, where would it be?

St Barth’s had been on my bucket list for so long and that’s where one of the next episodes was filmed. As I’m half Caribbean, I feel right at home there!

Athens’ New Michelin Star Restaurants for 2022

The MICHELIN Guide Athens 2022 has just been revealed, with one new Two Michelin-star restaurant, two new One Michelin-star restaurants, and plenty more receiving a high distinction in various categories.

“The Greek capital features one new Two Michelin Star restaurant as well as two restaurants receiving a Star for the first time. Two restaurants stand out with their commitment in terms of sustainability and thus receive the Michelin Green Star. Seven new establishments have been referenced, thus bringing the selection to a total of 27 restaurants,” announced the Michelin Guide.

Insights Greece - Athens’ New Michelin Star Restaurants for 2022 — Delta Restaurant

First new entry to the 2022 Michelin Guide with a Two Star edition is Delta, which “stands out with its breathtaking avant-garde esthetics, at the heart of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center. Chefs George Papazacharias and Thanos Feskos, who both boast experience in Northern countries, offer gastronomic suggestions that combine Scandinavian concepts and culinary techniques with local products, with the common theme being environmental sustainability,” says the Michelin Guide team.

Two Newly Awarded Restaurants That Received One Michelin Star

Soil, which is located in the Pangrati district and “offers a charming terrace, harbors the cuisine of Chefs Tasos Mantis and Alexandros Mouridis. The name “Soil” is a clear indication of the philosophy behind the establishment, which aims to be close to its territory, mindful of food sustainability and a fervent supporter of the “Farm to table” approach.”

Along with The Zillers, “without a doubt a highly unique restaurant, since it is located on the rooftop of the Zillers Boutique Hotel, meaning guests can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Acropolis and the Metropolitan Cathedral of the Annunciation. With its flexible offer, one can enjoy a light, casual lunch or a full-fledged gastronomic dinner from Chef Pavlos Kiriakis.”

Retaining their Stars for yet another year are Botrini’s, CTC, Hytra, Pelagos and Varoulko Seaside, which had all already received a MICHELIN Star last year, along with Bib Gourmand recipients Cerdo Negro 1985, Nolan and Oikeîo, which were once again acknowledged for their focus on good value for money.

Four Restaurants Added to the 2022 Selection of the Athens Michelin Guide

Hervé’s, “the culinary offer focuses on a single tasting menu which includes 15 courses and is based on Greek traditions combined with cosmopolitan inspirations from France, Asia, Latin America.”

Linou Soumpasis k sia “stands out through its aesthetics.. it has a casual bistro vibe where you can enjoy simple, authentic Greek cuisine, with a few surprising modern touches and a strong commitment towards using organic products.”

Merceri, “a classic, authentic bistro, serves the cuisine of Maria Dioudi and Melina Chomata…their cuisine, which is modern and features international influences, pays tribute to Greek recipes.”

VERi TABLE, “a French-style bistro where you will be welcomed by a cheerful couple, you will find suggestions that pay tribute to Provençal cuisine… along with the great standards, you will find weekly recommendations as well as made-to-measure menus.”

The MICHELIN Guides are a series of guide books that have been published by the French company Michelin since 1904. The Guide awards up to three Michelin stars for excellence to a select few establishments.

The full selection of the MICHELIN Guide Athens 2022 is available free of charge on the MICHELIN Guide website and app.

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Best Cafes in Plaka

Plaka, built in the shadow of the Acropolis, is an authentic sample of where old-world Athens meets the new.

It’s a place where you will find ancient ruins on almost every corner; as well as a variety of charming cafes serving coffee, drinks and desserts, with the most historic views.

Here, we’ve rounded up our favourites when visiting this beautiful part of the city!

Yiasemi is a picturesque spot that’s become the Instagrammable bistro-café in the neighbourhood thanks to all the jam-packed tables lined along the staircase. You can sit and relax, watching people go by, while also sampling the great vegetarian buffet breakfast that features delightful dishes made using fresh, local produce. A: (Mnisikleous 23)

Café Melina is a retro café dedicated to Greek actress and political activist Melina Merkouri, features plenty of images and decor honouring the late actress. With an indoor and outdoor seating area, the all-day menu includes mezedes, as well as crepes and homemade desserts. A: (Lysiou 22)

Kimolia Art Café, a colourful and unique cafe that’s hidden in the alleyways of Plaka; Kimolia is set in a historic 1925 building, allowing visitors to step back in time with its traditional decor and ambience. A: (Ypereidou 5)

Anafiotika Café, located on the most famous steps of the neighbourhood; is the ideal place for a coffee during a morning stroll or a Greek meze later on in the day. A: (Mnisikleous 24)

Café Plaka is a great place all year round but we love it even more in winter for its fireplace and a wonderful roof terrace where you can sit and enjoy the sunny mornings. Tip: try the pancakes and take photos in front of the pink house. A: (Tripodon 1)

O Glykys is a traditional kafeneio that serves great Greek coffee, tsipouro, and homemade delicacies. Here you will find locals enjoying a game of tavli (backgammon), of course. A: (Geronta 2)

Dioskouroi, located right in the centre of old Athens, this cafe recently received a new design without losing its traditional atmosphere and appeal. It’s a favourite amongst students, locals and tourists alike, who come here for a coffee in the morning and a cocktail or wine during the evening. A: (37-39 Adrianou)

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Grasshoppers: a hot new entry to Athens bar scene

Not your average bar, Grasshoppers near the centre of Athens is a place where all the details have been seen to, and the cocktails are no exception.

By Gina Lionatos

The low down… Grasshoppers is a striking contrast to the all-day cafe across the road (incidentally under the same ownership) in the neighbourhood of Neos Kosmos. Here you’ll find an intriguing space, a thought-provoking cocktail menu designed by mixologist Nikos Sotiropoulos, and a focus on seriously good bar food. Just a stone’s throw away from the Onassis Stegi Cultural Centre, Grasshoppers opened its doors in May 2022 and is already a favourite among Athenians who take their drinks seriously.

Insights Greece - Grasshoppers: a hot new entry to Athens bar scene

Décor/ Ambience: There is something decidedly grown-up about Grasshoppers, despite the associations of youth and inexperience that the name conjures. The use of the signature dark blue hue throughout the space, textural touch points (from the walls to the menus) and sleek interiors make Grasshoppers a bar that could easily be found in Manhattan’s Lower East Side.

Something to drink: The cocktails have been named after the types of couples you might find at a bar (see: Flying Lovers, Fervid, Unbearable). The Vulnerable is a delightful concoction of dry gin, chamomile, peach, almond, citrus and fresh herbs.

Menu: The menu offers classic cold dishes like beef tartare and salmon gravlax as well as sandwiches and cheese plates. All are made to order and prepared next to the bar.

Order my fave dish: The Vitello Tonnato boasts delicately sliced veal, dressed in lemon sauce with tuna, mayonnaise, mustard leaves, smoked eel and capers.

Price range: Bar food ranges from 6-9 € and a cocktail will set you back 10 €.

Perfect for: A night of sipping, chatting and mingling with friends. A great date night option.

Location: Eurudamantos 6, Athens

Opening hours/days: Closed Mondays, Open from 6pm-2am Tuesday-Sunday.

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Athens’ Blossoming Wine Bar Scene

A wonderful variety of wine bars have sprung up all over Athens, giving visitors the opportunity to enjoy a relaxed chat with friends over a glass of good wine, complemented by equally good food.

Notable bottled wine production didn’t start in modern Greece until the 1960s when substantial investments in facilities and technology first took place. Nevertheless, the traditional low demand for bottled wine by Greek consumers kept its quality relatively low. Since the 2000’s remarkable efforts in bottled wine quality improvement by wineries and vine farmers brought about spectacular results.

As a consequence, low domestic demand has since surged and Greeks have begun to consume more and more bottled Greek wine, either as part of their entertainment or as an accompaniment to their food.

So, while fifteen years ago the term wine bar was mostly unknown to the Greek public, nowadays, every remarkable bar and restaurant cluster in Athens has its own place dedicated to wines. Most wine bars in Athens employ knowledgeable staff, feature a large variety of wines, and offer complimentary or even main dishes; with quality (most of the time) ranging from descent to high-end.

Athens has been an attraction for the past few centuries for both Greeks and foreigners alike. Its ancient history and ruins worked as a time travel in its visitors’ imagination.

Modern Athens has changed a lot from the time of its liberation from Ottoman rule when it was already a prominent destination for knowledgeable travellers to the various lands of the Mediterranean Sea.

But up until recently, Athens was still a destination of historical interest only. Tourists used to visit Athens for a few days to see the antiquities before they embarked on their trip to the islands of the Aegean, where they mostly spent their vacation time.

Thanks to the information technology burst, internet proliferation, and the increase of its users and time spent on it, more and more people have discovered that Athens offers more than history and sunshine.

Its Mediterranean climate urges its people to go out and enjoy themselves. This outgoing need has created and sustained a vibrant entertainment scene in the city for the past few decades, which is well-synched with global trends.

Dance clubs, generic and various music genre-oriented bars, concert halls, Greek urban and folk live music halls, Greek, ethnic cuisine, and gourmet restaurants comprise the melting pot of Athenian outdoor entertainment.

Within this lively amusement scenery, wine bars have sprung up in the city like mushrooms filling a gap between nightlife entertainment and the need to have a meal outdoors and socialize. Relaxed evening talks around a bottle of good wine, complemented with equally good snacks and food was an experience that may have been lacking in Athens- but that has now changed.

As luckily, the city’s young wine bar scene has grown; and very well at that. It features many young-gun sommeliers and established restaurateurs whose services offer real added value to the customer.

The wine bars of Athens are redefining the way we Greeks drink wine and offer those already familiar with them a chance to not miss them while far from home. So here’s a list of great wine bars to choose from, for your next visit to the Greek capital!

Oinoscent

Perhaps the most famous wine bar in Athens. Located just a stone’s throw away from Syntagma Square, Oinoscent is a wine bar and restaurant. Its wine list is focused on international vineyards but it also features several Greek labels from selected wineries. The food menu is focused on small, dish varieties that are very tasty. Prices are slightly on the higher end of the spectrum but the quality justifies the premium. Don’t miss the chance to inspect the wine cellar in the basement!

Insights Greece - Athens' Blossoming Wine Bar Scene

Heteroclito

This cozy little wine bar, not far from Syntagma Square, is another great option for getting to know domestic wines. All labels on the list are also available for retail purchase at cellar prices. Their wines combine ideally with carefully selected local varieties of cheese, hams and other delicacies, which are available in its unique space downtown.

Materia Prima

This sophisticated wine bar, a few steps from the new Museum of Contemporary Art in the Koukaki district, is ideal for quiet wine drinks in the evening. It has a detailed wine list and offers troves of interesting wines at reasonable prices. Nevertheless, choosing Materia Prima as a date destination with your significant other might not be recommended as you may find its wine list pretty distracting!

Vintage

Imagine a chic, rustic, warm, atmospheric penthouse apartment decorated in earthly colours with a laid-back feel; now, add a 1200+ bottle wine list and you’ve got Vintage. What is more, are the many choices for those who love meat and cheese, as well as its central location in Athens, since it is very close to Syntagma Square.

Manouka

Perhaps the wine bar with the best view in all of Athens. It’s located on the rooftop of Utopia Hotel and once there, you can enjoy the wine while staring at the Athenian horizon ranging across from the hill of Lycabettus, the Parthenon to the city’s old but still operating sky Observatory and along from Mount Hymettus at the background all the way to the Parliament at the forefront. The 100+ labels focus on Greek vineyards; framed by simple and delicious dishes of the Mediterranean cuisine. What else can one ask for?

Paleo

Heading down to the southern suburbs of the city and specifically to the once industrial zone of Piraeus, lies an exemplary wine bar housed in a stunning converted warehouse. The décor is very original where the shelves filled with empty bottles give the feeling of a wine depository, the chairs are painted with wine landscapes and the tables are made of repurposed wine barrels. The owner is an experienced sommelier and offers his guests a list of 300 labels from the European South accompanied by Mediterranean dishes.

Cava Vegera

Featuring two wine bars across the city (Glyfada and Voula), Cava Vegera is the perfect antidote to the overcrowded city centre scenery. Both bars pay tribute to everyone who truly loves wine, by offering wines and dishes from across the Mediterranean and around the world. Cava Vegera wine bars also feature a wine store, upstairs, where you can find close to 1,000 different wine labels that you can drink in-store for a small corkage fee.

Cheers!

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Acropolis Museum is Celebrating its 13th Birthday Today

To celebrate its 13th birthday today, Monday 20 June 2022, the Acropolis Museum is inviting visitors to its exhibition areas with reduced tickets (5 euro), a live concert and the opening of a wonderful new exhibition.

The Museum will be open from 8 am to 4 pm today with reduced tickets to all exhibition areas, and at 3 pm, visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy music by the Woodwind Quintet of the Athens State Orchestra.

Insights Greece - Acropolis Museum is Celebrating its 13th Birthday Today — Image by the Acropolis Museum

From today until January 8, 2023 the Acropolis Museum will present the exhibition program “Ton Athinithen athlon. Panathenaic amphorae from Toronto, Canada back to their birthplace”, with two exquisite vessels created in Athens over 2,500 years ago. They are Panathenaic amphorae, vessels filled with oil that was given as a prize to the victors of contests held during the festival of the Great Panathenaia. One side is decorated with the figure of Athena Promachos and the other with scenes related to the games for which they were given as prizes.

The two vessels from the Royal Ontario Museum will be exhibited in the Parthenon Gallery, relating to the great temple’s frieze, where Pheidias and his collaborators artfully carved the Panathenaic procession.

This presentation is an event taking place simultaneously with the presentation “From Athens to Toronto: A Greek Masterpiece Revealed” at the Royal Ontario Museum where the Acropolis Kore 670 is on display from March 2022. The event has been organised as part of cultural exchanges between the Acropolis Museum and other great museums abroad, contributing to the enhancement of friendly relations between the people of different countries.

For more details head to The Acropolis Museum

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Pool Your Cinema Returns at the Hotel Grande Bretagne

Athens’ Hotel Grande Bretagne is welcoming guests to experience a unique outdoor summer cinema event in the heart of the city, with their Pool Your Cinema 2022 nights.

Located at the GB Pool Bar area on the 7th floor of the landmark hotel, with amazing and uninterrupted views of Lycabettus Hill, guests are able to catch all-time classic favourites, Hollywood blockbusters, and romantic comedies on the big screen, while savoring the delightful finger food menu, prepared by the hotel’s Executive Chef Asterios Koustoudis.

From mini cheeseburgers and handmade pizza to caramelized popcorn and ice cream, guests can also grab a wine, beer, or cocktail as they watch a film under the stars!

Screenings are taking place over the next few weeks, with films including Dial M for Murder, as well as Take The Money and Run, French Dispatch, and The Full Monty.

Bookings are allowed until one day prior to the film screening and details can be found below.

Price: €50 (includes menu and a glass of wine or beer)

Until: 10 July 2022

Address: Hotel Grande Bretagne, 1 Vasileos Georgiou A, Syntagma

Pool Your Cinema

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New Private Club and Luxury Apartments to Open at Ellinikon

Lamda has just announced a new 70 million euro deal with Greek real estate investment company Orilina Properties for the Ellinikon project, which will include a private club, luxury apartments with sea views, as well as a food court and an entertainment complex.

One of the most emblematic projects within “The Ellinikon” is the revitalisation of the Coastal Zone, encompassing as key elements the creation of the new freely accessible beachfront and a number of architectural landmarks.

In this context, Orilina Properties announced a new strategic partnership with Lamda Development, where Orilina is acquiring from Lamda two prime land plots next to the marina of Agios Kosmas.

The commercial development will consist of a private club with extensive facilities and state-of-the-art restaurants, as well as a wine and spirits retail store and bar by the marina, which will be accessible to the public and is to offer an impressive range of wines from around the world.

The prime residential development will feature exclusive sea view apartment units, which will be branded and serviced by the club, as the apartment buyers will automatically acquire a life club membership and be able to “indulge, unwind and socialise in the vibrant atmosphere of the club,” according to the press statement.

The development of an estimated budget of €70million will conform to the highest green and energy-efficient standards and will be designed by the prominent global architectural firm Kengo Kuma & Associates, who is also designing the Riviera Galleria constructed by Lamda in the neighbouring area, thus ensuring in this prominent position next to the marina of Agios Kosmas, a unified coastal front of high caliber, and an important addition to the architectural landmarks of the area.

This article was first published here

For more Real Estate News & Views on Greece and Europe’s South, head to The Greek Guru

*Image courtesy of Lamdadev

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Drink With the Locals at This Newly Opened Athens Neighbourhood Bar

In a city filled with all-day cafes, Eprepe Bar is a welcome addition to the inner-city neighbourhood of Kypseli.

The low down… Tired of ordering your cocktail, only to have it accompanied by nuts or chips? So too were the group behind this new bar in Kypseli, located on the pedestrian street of Agias Zonis. At Eprepe, zero waste is a key philosophy and you’ll often see the same raw ingredients included in their cocktails and bar food. Seasonality also plays a role from the food and the preparations for their cocktail list right down to their wine cellar.

Décor/ Ambience: The space is modern yet comfortable, with countertops, cushioned high chairs and a side bar that opens almost completely, so that the neighbourhood becomes part of the interior. The feeling is familiar and comfortable, yet has a definite bar vibe to it and a rotation of DJs throughout the week.

Insights Greece - Drink With the Locals at This Newly Opened Athens Neighbourhood Bar

Something to drink: There is a handsome selection of natural wines, and a range of harder-to-find spirits. Classic cocktails like the negroni and dry martini sit alongside signature cocktails like the house spritz made from pet nat wine, bitters and soda.

Menu: The small bites on the menu are perfect for sharing over a glass of natural wine. Bites are all made in-house from scratch and include house-made focaccia, grilled cauliflower served on carrot and ginger puree, and an aromatic chickpea dish served with sesame crackers. All drinks are accompanied by off-menu bites like fried gigantes beans, parmesan cookies and even handmade chocolate truffles.

Order my fave dish: The menu is seasonal, but if you come across the tartaki (small tarts filled with pea cream and topped with asparagus), it’s a must-try. These small morsels are fresh, fragrant and packed with flavour.

Price range: Bar food ranges from 3-7 euro and cocktails average out at 9 euro.

Clientele: Young, hip locals of Kypseli (and surrounding neighbourhoods). Great for catching up with one or two friends or unwinding with an after work drink.

Location: Agias Zonis 1, Athens

Opening hours/days: Closed Mondays. Open from 2 pm-2 am (Sundays 1-8pm).

Main Image by Athinorama

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A Day in Athens’ Cool Neighbourhood of Neos Kosmos

Literally translating to “New World”, the neighbourhood of Neos Kosmos was historically known to be a symbol of new beginnings and a new home for refugees from Asia Minor who fled Turkish expulsion.

Still a haven for the modern-day refugee crises (the public housing estate off Syngrou Avenue now inhabits tenants from the Balkans, Asia and the Middle East), in recent years, the area has seen some changes, namely the addition of a cultural centre, theatre, major hotels and a string of celebrated eateries that now make Neos Kosmos an inner-city suburb of intriguing contradictions.

Whether staying at one of the nearby hotels on Syngrou Avenue or in the centre of Athens, a walk through the neighbourhood of Neos Kosmos wouldn’t be complete without these stops.

Stop 1: Coffee and brunch at Naif

Perched on the busy corner of Leontiou and Evridamantos, Naif is one of those great neighbourhood cafes that is loved by locals (and not only). It has a compact interior with minimal, danish-inspired design, yet its real charm is in the sunny table-lined sidewalk that seems to be filled with patrons day and night. There is a varied menu that includes brunch options like baked eggs, tsoureki French toast and yogurt bowls. The food menu is rounded out with sandwiches, salads, burgers and pizza. The coffee is strong and good, and keeps company with a selection of wines, classic cocktails and local beers.

Stop 2: Onassis Stegi Cultural Centre

Even if you’re not looking for the Onassis Cultural Centre, it’s hard to miss. Tim Etchall’s immense neon light installation “All we have” mounted on the outside of the OSCC has become synonymous with the multidisciplinary art space. The Onassis Cultural Centre has a rotating seasonal program of performances, installations and exhibitions that recognise local and international talent. A 10-minute drive from the historic centre of Athens, the OSCC offers a contemporary take on Greek art and culture that rounds out Athens’ cultural offering.

Insights Greece - A Day in Athens' Cool Neighbourhood of Neos Kosmos — Naif Cafe

Stop 3: Aperitivo hour at Teras

After dinner, stop by hip hangout spot Teras for an early evening cocktail in the quaint 1930s building or under the impressive fig tree that fills the courtyard. Teras is a multidisciplinary space, with a rotating schedule of events like yoga lessons and pop-up bazaars. The one constant at Teras is the ability to enjoy the musical offerings of local Athenian DJs as you sip on your evening spritz.

Stop 3: Take your pick from these noteworthy dinner options

The dining options in Neos Kosmos are not to be overlooked. In fact, you’d be well-advised to book a table in advance of your planned visit.

Since opening in 2019, Fita restaurant has cemented its place in the Athens dining scene as the go-to for fish and seafood close to the city centre. Featuring locally caught fish and seafood, the menu rotates based on the fisherman’s catch and usually includes Fita’s velvet-like taramosalata and a version of their famed spaghetti with bottarga or clams. The thoughtfully created menu, selection of Greek wines and casual neighbourhood sidewalk-dining make Fita a perfect place to dine on a balmy summer’s evening (or any time of the year, for that matter).

Annie Fine Cooking is a relatively new (and exciting) entry to the Neos Kosmos dining scene. Originally from Mani, chef Stavriani Zervakakou designs a seasonal menu based on her market haul that morning. Here, you can relax at the tables and cushioned armchairs laying on the sidewalk of Menaichmos while you watch the open kitchen in full swing.

Hytra Restaurant sits on the top floor of the Onassis Cultural Centre and has developed a culinary identity based on its fusion of traditional Greek gastronomy expressed in a contemporary manner. With a Michelin star under its belt, Hytra offers two separate menus that co-exist within the same space. Hytra and Hytra Apla share a common theme of local ingredients, presented in both a modern (see: Hytra) and traditional (see: Hytra Apla) way.

Stop 4: Drinks at Grasshoppers

Grasshoppers is the new kid on the block in Neos Kosmos, having just opened in May 2022. Located opposite Naif and around the corner from the Onassis Stegi Cultural Centre, Grasshoppers is a bar where all the details have been seen to and the cocktails are no exception. With friendly bar staff, an excellent offering of bar food built for sharing (try the Vitello Tonnato) and a drinks list that will spark exciting discussion, Grasshoppers is the perfect spot to end (or start) your night in Neos Kosmos.

Main Image Courtesy of One Man

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Athens Open Air Cinema Week 2022

There’s nothing like sitting back and taking in a film under the stars at one of Athens’ open-air cinemas; and to celebrate this memorable experience, the Greek Capital’s Open Air Cinema Week begins on Thursday, May 26, 2022.

Located in the city’s urban alleyways, lush gardens, green parks, charming courtyards, and cool terraces (with the Acropolis as a backdrop) the open-air cinema is a summer tradition in Athens; one that both locals and visitors look forward to for many reasons.

Balmy evenings, soda and popcorn in hand, amazing atmosphere, and some of the best films on the big screen- a perfect way to escape the buzzing streets of Athens for a few hours.

And the Open Air Cinema Week, which is part of the brand new Athens City Festival, is set to bring all these things to life on Thursday at Eleftherias Park, right next to the Athens Concert Hall, as well as at the American Embassy, which boasts a gorgeous view of Mount Ymittos.

Both these spots will be the hosting grounds for this much-anticipated event, which will have contemporary Greek cinema as the theme- so visitors can really get a feel of Greece’s current arts and culture scene- right under the stars!

Click here for more info on tickets and dates, as well as the full program of This is Athens City Festival.

Info

Tickets: Free admission

Date: 26 May 2022 – 29 May 2022

Time: TBA

A: Eleftherias Park, Eleftherias Park, Ambelokipi

Athens Athens events Athens festivals Athens Film Festival Athens films Athens open air cinema Athens Open Air Cinema Week Open Air Cinema This is Athens

1st Athens Cocktail Festival & Cocktail Week Ready to Kick Off

The Greek capital is ready to toast the summer season with the 1st Athens Cocktail Festival & Athens Cocktail Week.

By Gina Lionatos

With what is fast becoming the hottest bar scene in Europe, it was only a matter of time before Athens stepped up with its own cocktail festival to open the summer tourist season. With the support of the Municipality of Athens, and as a part of the ‘This is Athens Festival’, the city will move to the rhythm of the largest cocktail festival in Greece.

Insights Greece - 1st Athens Cocktail Festival & Cocktail Week Ready to Kick Off — Athens 1st Cocktail Festival

The first Athens Cocktail Festival kicks off over a cocktail-filled two days at the “Lighthouse” of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre on 20 & 21 May 2022.

After that, the action extends to the city’s bars for all to enjoy. Athens Cocktail Week will run from 22 to 28 May 2022 and will see the best bars in Athens hosting a series of guest nights and special events. All the excitement will culminate on the closing night on May 28, 2022, with a large closing party in the city center.

Information on events is still unfolding, so to stay updated, tune into @athenscocktailfestivalofficial’s social media on Instagram for details.

Pre-sale tickets to Athens Cocktail Festival include two cocktails and are available through viva.gr at https://www.viva.gr/tickets/festival/athens-cocktail-festival/

* All the activities of Athens Cocktail Festival & Athens Cocktail Week, are supported by the Municipality of Athens as well as by AMKE Metron Ariston – Making Responsibility a Trend and operating in light of the Responsible Consumption and green practices.

Athens Athens bars Athens cocktail festival Athens cocktail week Athens cocktails Athens events Athens festival Athens festivals

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Athens Open Air Cinema Week 2022

There’s nothing like sitting back and taking in a film under the stars at one of Athens’ open-air cinemas; and to celebrate this memorable experience, the Greek Capital’s Open Air Cinema Week begins on Thursday, May 26, 2022.

Info

1st Athens Cocktail Festival & Cocktail Week Ready to Kick Off

The Greek capital is ready to toast the summer season with the 1st Athens Cocktail Festival & Athens Cocktail Week.

Your Curated Guide to Greece

Cleo Anderson, a luxury travel expert, and the Principal and Founder of multi-award-winning PR agency The Anderson Group, recently landed her own travel show with LUXE.TV.

The MICHELIN Guide Athens 2022 has just been revealed, with one new Two Michelin-star restaurant, two new One Michelin-star restaurants, and plenty more receiving a high distinction in various categories.

Plaka, built in the shadow of the Acropolis, is an authentic sample of where old-world Athens meets the new.

Not your average bar, Grasshoppers near the centre of Athens is a place where all the details have been seen to, and the cocktails are no exception.

A wonderful variety of wine bars have sprung up all over Athens, giving visitors the opportunity to enjoy a relaxed chat with friends over a glass of good wine, complemented by equally good food.

To celebrate its 13th birthday today, Monday 20 June 2022, the Acropolis Museum is inviting visitors to its exhibition areas with reduced tickets (5 euro), a live concert and the opening of a wonderful new exhibition.

Athens’ Hotel Grande Bretagne is welcoming guests to experience a unique outdoor summer cinema event in the heart of the city, with their Pool Your Cinema 2022 nights.

Lamda has just announced a new 70 million euro deal with Greek real estate investment company Orilina Properties for the Ellinikon project, which will include a private club, luxury apartments with sea views, as well as a food court and an entertainment complex.

In a city filled with all-day cafes, Eprepe Bar is a welcome addition to the inner-city neighbourhood of Kypseli.

Literally translating to “New World”, the neighbourhood of Neos Kosmos was historically known to be a symbol of new beginnings and a new home for refugees from Asia Minor who fled Turkish expulsion.

There’s nothing like sitting back and taking in a film under the stars at one of Athens’ open-air cinemas; and to celebrate this memorable experience, the Greek Capital’s Open Air Cinema Week begins on Thursday, May 26, 2022.

Info

The Greek capital is ready to toast the summer season with the 1st Athens Cocktail Festival & Athens Cocktail Week.

The Athens Guide