Unique Greek Christmas Gifts

Bring a touch of Greek charm to your loved ones this Christmas with our hand-picked selection of gifts.

The clock is ticking but you still have a little more time before Santa beats you to it—and to help, we’ve put together the absolute best treats for all tastes, ages and interests.

These made-in-Greece brands create unique items we love giving and receiving – and no doubt you will also find the perfect piece (or two) here for family, friends, or yourself! 

For everyone…

11 Modern Muses

Greek brand 11 Morden Muses has beautiful minimal calendars, scented candles and art prints that you will fall in love with. Perfect for gifting this season, their new planner aspires to keep your creative fire alive throughout the new year and will help you stay organised and grateful for each new day. 

11modernmuses.com

Naked Summers

Visual artist Christina Mandilari paints with a special technique on both fabrics and ceramics, which remind us of warm, carefree, “naked” summers. Mandilar’s gorgeous creations include plates, painted vases, woven pillows, paintings and posters. Ideal gifts for those who can never get enough of the wonderful Greek summer.

nakedsummers.com

Rhoeco

Is there anything better than enjoying a warm, strong tea by the fire at Christmas? Whatever image this short description created for you comes to life through the notes of Rhoeco’s Christmas blend tea, a small business that produces beverages inspired by Greek nature. And what’s even more ideal is that they come beautifully packaged in pots that can be reused. 

rhoeco.com

Contrust Collective

Even though this concept store is small, there is lots to see. Owned and operated by a group of five local designers and artisans, it features lovely neutral ceramics, jewellery, and bags made of cork, leather, and canvas. It’s the prints, though, that truly catch the eye here; some of them are prints or sort of pop-up books featuring Greek cities that are vividly coloured and abstract.

contrustcollective.gr

For foodies

Politeia

Savour delicious, nutritious dishes and enjoy a healthy diet, the Mediterranean way! An easy-to-follow, step-by-step guide is the perfect gift for those wishing to cook traditional, delicious and nutritious dishes that have stood the test of time. The Art of Greek Cooking has a recipe to satisfy everyone. You can discover this and plenty more cookbook choices in English at the famous bookstore Politeia, at the centre of Athens. 

politeia.gr

Olive Wood Land Shop

Buying kitchen accessories made of authentic olive wood is a quality and timeless choice. You can either visit this unique store in the historic centre of Athens in Monastiraki, just a few hundred meters from the Acropolis, which specialises in creating products from the olive wood, of your choice, or head to their online shop. 

olivewoodlandshop.gr

For kids…

Wandering Workshop

If you are looking for original stylish wooden toys that can stimulate children’s imagination and enhance their creativity then look no further than the online store Wandering Workshop. “Our toys wander carefreely between the earth, sea and sky, inviting children to invent the play,” say the creators’ Hose Navaro and Athina Doukaki.

thewanderingworkshop.com

Greek Games 

Discover the magic word of Greek games-literally, with a series of games, posters, card posts, t-shirts and more fun items. These products entertain children (adults as well) and at the same time, provide knowledge of Greek mythology and history, with an artistic twist. It’s the lovechild of Effie Karagouni and Christos Papachristou, two creators with a passion and respect for the arts, museums, the history of Greece and above all, with deep love and caring for children and their education.

mygreekgames.com

Grizo & Prasino: Organic Tea Experts

Grizo & Prasino is a family, all-things-tea-related business run by husband and wife Kostas and Aggeliki, from their botanical farm in Thrace. The seed for this idea was planted almost a decade ago and the couple took its first steps towards making it happen right after their wedding day! We recently had a chat with the duo to discover their story.

Tell me more about yourself and your company Grizo & Prasino!

In 2012, Kostas and I got married and we spent the money that our family and friends gave us for the wedding to buy the equipment for our first business (similar to Grizo & Prasino) called ‘Drogi Biological Herbs’.

As an agriculture engineer, Kostas had a personal interest in herbs and aromatic plants since 2008- I have vivid memories of his enthusiasm each time he would taste a new herb. I also had a bee in my bonnet for their medicinal properties and read every book under the sun about them. At the same time, we run our separate businesses, I, as a lawyer and Kostas, as an Organic Farming consultant. It was these jobs that would fuel the bank and allow us to make our hobby happen and turn it into a business. In 2016, things changed with the arrival of our baby. Our time was limited so we decided to turn into business coaching to get more information about running a business and how this hobby of ours could potentially turn into our full-time income source.

In 2017, after a serious health issue, I decided to leave my career in law and so Grizo & Prasino was born at the end of the same year. Since then many things have changed – the way we work, the time we dedicated to the farm, and even our original goals! We grow as our business grows and we learn from our mistakes. Thankfully we make plenty of them!

How did it feel when you had your first sale?

I cannot remember much about our first sale however what I do remember is that by the time our website went live in December 2017, we were exhausted! We had spent so much time building our branding strategy, setting up the website and clearly communicating who we are, our vision and values; that when we started receiving positive feedback from our friends and loved ones we felt pride, happiness and an impatience to see where this would lead us.

Where in Rodopi do you go foraging?

Wild foraging at a commercial level could be harmful to nature so we have our own farm where we cultivate the herbs we use. We steer away from practices that would potentially damage the environment and our customers. Take as an example the case of Malotira in Crete, the famous Cretan tea that is nearly extinct due to over-foraging. Then, there is always the matter of quality consistency. With wild foraging you cannot control certain parameters such as the rainfall and the conditions of the top and sub-soil, that affect the taste, flavour and therapeutical properties of the herbs.

What do you love more about this job?

We both followed our dream, quit our day jobs and turned our hobby into our business, working every day on something that we both love. It wasn’t an easy task but our love for botanology and herbs gives us the strength to keep going. There is an innumerable number of products that could be based on herbs and I am not even sure if one life is enough to learn all about them and apply them to our products. Grizo & Prasino allows us to be creative, to constantly think of new ideas and make them happen. It is also a job that brings us closer to nature as we spend plenty of time on the farm. But beyond everything else, it is a job that allows us to produce commodities that helps others and makes their life better. We don’t just sell stuff, we believe in their magic, too!

How has your life changed since Grizo and Prasino?

I am not going to bore you with the details but, as I mentioned, I used to be a lawyer so you could say that life has changed massively ever since. I no longer chase deadlines nor do I have to support cases I am not agreeing with. I am not visiting the farm as frequently as Kostas does but when I do it does me good and I it lifts my spirit. As for Kostas, even though he is an agriculture engineer and working as a consultant for all those years, he too found himself getting out of the office more than he used to. If you knew Kostas in real life, you would see that the outdoors suit him more than the office. He loves agroecology and trying new practices for our farm. Some of those practices look outdated but they are far from it! He is always on the hunt for new practices and techniques that are applied on other farms in Greece and abroad. It is a very creative process and come to think of it, creating a farm is like painting on a larger scale, isn’t it?

What are your top places around Komotini to reconnect with nature?

We love the little village of Pandroso and the beach of Molyvoti (also known as Kursumlu). Those are the first places that come to mind when we need to get some fresh air and enjoy the great outdoors. Rodopi is full of interesting places to visit and it is truly amazing how there are still so many pristine and unspoiled spots to explore.

Last but not least, what are your favourite Grizo and Prasino tea flavours and
which flavour one must definitely try?

My preferences vary with the change of seasons. Around this time of the year, I like to drink the “exhale” (sage, pergamot and juniper root), but before that, I frantically drank “mantarili” (mandarin, honeysuckle and chamomile). However, the flavour that I love and keep going back to again and again is the “xana & xana” (rosemary, althaea and louiza) with no sugar, please. Kostas’s favourite is the “orange tzitzimenta” (mint, ginger and orange) and he believes it’s the best of our creations! I guess he is a mint kind of guy as he also likes “pu & pu” (mint, sage and calendula) no sugar for him either.

Images by Anna Paraskevidou- art traces ©

 

Best Greek Wines for Your Easter Table

Easter is nearly upon us once again and as with any holiday it sets new conundrums for wine pairing. It seems that no sooner has the dust of the busy Christmas and New Year period settled, we are again arranging for our Easter festivities and deciding on menus and most importantly, wine lists; just how are we going to pair these for our celebratory table? 

During childhood, Christmas is easily everyone’s favorite season. And why not, there’s Santa Claus and gifts; traditional desserts, reindeer, and snowmen. But as one grows older and wiser, it dawns on every Christian that Easter is indeed the core event of the Christian experience.

The very foundation of Christianity revolves around the Holy Week (which starts on the Sunday preceding Easter). Unlike Christmas, which has become more about offering gifts than commemorating the humble incarnation of Christ, Easter still retains the very essence of the faith. After the 40-day period of Lent, which includes abstinence — from meat, fish, dairy, alcohol, and smoking — and days of fasting and prayer, Easter is celebrated with a feast.

Insights Greece - Best Greek Wines for Your Easter Table
Santorini of Argyros Estate

Lent fasting ends on Holy Saturday with the Resurrection where we all gather at home to crack each other’s red-dyed egg and enjoy a dish of the hearty, viscous and sweet-smelling magiritsa, which is a Greek traditional soup whose main characteristics are the aromas of fennel, dill and the sour taste, that match respectively to a glass of wine with good acidity and rich aromas.

Personally, I would choose an Assyrtiko from the beautiful island of Santorini, which affords some of the best and most notable versions of the grape. The “Santorini” of Argyros Estate with its full body and “aggressive” acidity, will penetrate the greasiness of the dish, refreshing the mouth and balancing at the same time the lemonish character of the soup. Alternatively, the “Santorini” of Sigalas Estate or the “34” of Karamolegos Winery will fit with our magiritsa ideally. 

The lunch table on Easter Sunday consists mainly of lamb or goat cooked in the oven or grilled and kokoretsi. Kokoretsi consists of lamb or goat organ meats like intestines, lungs, liver and sweetbreads. All the above dishes call for wines with a rich body, intense acidity to break down the fattiness of the meat and noticeable tannins to bind to the protein.

Insights Greece - Best Greek Wines for Your Easter Table
Chateau Julia Agiorgitiko from Domaine Costa Lazaridi

“Chateau Julia Agiorgitiko” from Domaine Costa Lazaridi is a rich and elegant wine. There is cassis, sour cherry, chocolate, baking spices, and cedar on the nose. The palate is straight-up fruit with a sleek balance between flavor and feel. It is a carefully crafted medium-bodied wine with a long finish. It will match perfectly with the kokoretsi dishes.

The main dish of the Easter menu meal is the lamb of course either roasted in an oven or grilled on a charcoal barbecue. Lamb meat is juicy, fatty and spicy. The wine of choice to accompany it should be exuberant and full of aromas of fruits and spices, in order to match the intensity of the meat, as well as the spicy character of the entire dish. That would be a wine with intense tannins for spiciness and good acidity to balance its greasiness. The choices of Greek labels are countless and concern the personal taste of each one. From the red varieties, I would choose Xinomavro and Syrah while from white, nothing else than Assyrtiko. 

Insights Greece - Best Greek Wines for Your Easter Table
Diaporos of Kir Yianni Estate


A beautiful blend of 87% Xinomavro and 13% Syrah makes a very nice lamb pairing, no matter how you have chosen to cook it. “Diaporos” of Kir Yianni Estate is a classic example of the Naousa region, which is known for reds dominated by Xinomavro. This medium-bodied wine reveals a bright red fruit bouquet alongside flinty minerality and chewy, gripping tannin structure reflecting a profile similar to Italy’s Nebbiolo-based wines. Syrah adds some spicy notes. It cuts through the fattiness of the lamb, and the result of the combination is impressive and slightly rustic, highlighting the best of both.

Insights Greece - Best Greek Wines for Your Easter Table
Nykteri from Hatzidakis Winery


If there is a white wine that pairs beautifully with lamb, it’s Assyrtiko. Assyrtiko’s traditional place of origin is Santorini, but vilifications are found all over Greece. This white grape has searing acidity that cuts through the high-fat savor of lamb. It also has plenty of lemon flavors to match the lamb roast with lemon potatoes. A full-bodied Assyrtiko, like those aged in oak barrels, is the best choice. “Nykteri” from Hatzidakis winery is an oaky full-bodied, creamy version of Assyrtiko expressing more elements of lemon custard, fresh pineapple, crème brûlée, and some baking spice. A complex wine that will pair nicely with our roast lamb.

Insights Greece - Best Greek Wines for Your Easter Table
Muscat of Rio Patras from Parparousis Winery


Although the Easter table includes intense dishes in terms of flavor and fat, there is always room on it for a variety of desserts, mainly syrupy ones. One of my favorite sweet Greek wines is the “Muscat of Rio Patras” of the Parparousis winery. It has aromas of apricot, bergamot, lime, orange peel, honey and elegant notes of lily and jasmine. Concentrated and complex, in the mouth, but without tiring as it has enough acidity that gives it balance and elegance. It will fit ideally with cheese platters but also with sweets that contain syrup or are based on pastry, cream and fruits.

I leave you with my best wishes for a HAPPY EASTER HOLIDAY.

For more wonderful wine explorations, follow George on Instagram @george.winestories

Our Favourite New Greek Beauty Brand

Nemertes combine the principles of self-care, holistic wellness, eco-conscience and the purest natural ingredients. Here are the reasons why they’re our favourite new Greek beauty brand and my tried and tested account of some of their feel-good products. 

The Greek company collaborates with award-winning producers from around the country to source the best raw materials each region or farmer can provide, such as organic extra virgin olive oil from Crete, the Peloponnese and Western Greece as one of the base ingredients in their face and body care ranges. Their products also contain many valuable and skin-loving oils such as argan oil, wheat germ oil, castor oil, coconut oil, avocado oil, shea butter, and cocoa butter, and are enriched with essential oils, herbs, and other ingredients with healing properties used since antiquity. 

The brand sees its luxurious products as a means to an end, and it’s not just about looking good: “Your physical health, mental euphoria, and a positive attitude to life are the most vital qualities we seek to offer! Our products represent something deeper than just beauty and health; they stand for self-love and everyday evolution. Our goal is to help each person develop the confidence to realize any self-improvement goal and inspire them to contribute meaningfully to society.”

Being environmentally friendly is another key priority for the company, so they use alternative energy sources to supply their production unit. Their product core ingredients extraction is being granted without the use of chemical solvent and their products are packaged in recyclable packaging Meanwhile they’re setting up a new service through which collaborating artists will create art on the packages of used products that customers will be asked to return, turning them into decorative objects.

Nemertes products are sold online via their eshop as well as in luxury Spas, 5-Star hotels (for which they’ve created a Welcome Gift Kit for guests) and high-end clothes boutiques. In the near future, the brand plans to create a children’s product series in collaboration with parenting and mental health consultants. “We will be creating a holistic package including practical advice on the physical care of babies, their dietary habits and also their spiritual and mental wellbeing.” Soon they will also be launching a new Exclusive series that will be based on award-winning organic wild oil and will contain gold leaves.

Tried & Tested Products

I had the pleasure of trying the following products-

Moisturizing body oil (Mandarin) & Moisturizing body oil (Sweet Fig)
These indulgent oils – the mandarin cheering and invigorating and the fig sensual and relaxing – smell incredible, like the real thing. I used a few drops of either oil in my bath, or as a perfume on my chest, neck and behind my ears, because the aroma of each is both therapeutic and lasts a long time. They leave the skin feeling soft and plump.

Insights Greece - Our Favourite New Greek Beauty Brand

Face oil

Nemertes Face Oil is 100% Organic and offers a unique formula designed to maximize the results of your overall skincare regime. Containing Wild Rose oil, Rose Essential Oil and Evening Primrose oil, the formula is rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Rose Essential Oil has properties that moisturize dry skin and anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties to treat redness and inflammation. Evening Primrose oil is packed with crucial Omega-6 Fatty Acids and strong antioxidant properties that help prevent the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. Although rich, it doesn’t leave an oily residue on the skin and it smells amazing! I found that it made my skin feel plumper and look more glowy, rosy and alive.

Bath & Shower Mandarin

Like the mandarin oil, this shower gel has a vibrant, mood-boosting and natural smell of mandarin that stays on the skin after you’ve dried off. It feels soothing and refreshing at once. 

Natural Greek Products Celebrating the Sacred Honeybee

As a big fan of bee products and bees, I was thrilled to discover this organic Greek brand, created by scientists Giorgos Athanasiadis and Chara Mangana on the island of Evia. I interviewed the couple to learn all about their vision and life, and tried some of their products, sharing my experience here.

Insights Greece - Natural Greek Products Celebrating the Sacred Honeybee
Giorgos and Chara

Having finished their studies in natural sciences, environmental physics and art, the visionary duo behind the Bee Naturelles beauty, healing and edible product range decided to leave Athens and relocate to Evia island. “We were enamoured by its nature and biodiversity and eager to discover its secrets. We both believe that the sacred honeybee is the connection integrating nature and human beings. Since we had both spent a lot of our childhood years living in natural habitats where honeybees always fascinated us, we wanted to celebrate them. We believe, and there’s a lot of evidence showing, that honeybees are the regenerating force behind nature and humanity,” they say. 

Biotechnologist and Tutor Chara Mangana and her partner Giorgos Athanasiadis, an Organic Apiarist, Physicist and Tutor are organic producers with expertise in bee science, natural sciences and remedies, such us beeswax cosmetics (the so-called “Apiceuticals”) who are passionate about bee products and natural ethics and determined to spread knowledge and awareness on this topic. They are partners in life and live year-round with their two sons in Evia. “We’ve been in the bee-siness for a decade now, lovingly creating products in which we combine unprocessed natural ingredients, such as organic beekeeping products, plant and herbal extracts, and essential oils produced with methods that are truly gentle and respectful to nature. The Bee Naturelles mission is to help prevent diseases and enhance your quality of life and overall health, by delivering our multi-awarded (more than 28 awards of quality and taste worldwide!) and highly reputed for their health benefits organic and natural products to the world!”

“Bees are the natural fertilizing power that gives life to everything, literally! They have been declared the most important living beings on this planet by the Earthwatch Institute, because of their pollination activity and so more. Bee products and bee medicine science provide everyday-life solutions to a huge spectrum of skin, body and mental problems. We, as bee ambassadors and Bee Naturalles as a brand, envision that every household should be using bee edible and cosmetic products for its everyday routine solutions and, by that the individual will actively help to the sustainability, regeneration and ethical contribution to and of mother nature and the honey bee!”

Tried & Tested Bee Naturelles Products Review

FACE CREAM FIRMING & RESTORING for mature skin 

This yellow cream has a rich but lightweight texture and although initially (for only a couple of minutes) it leaves a shiny residue on the skin it is then completely absorbed and feels like it’s activating the skin’s circulation, making it rosy and bright. This bestselling 24-hour firming facial cream is enriched with propolis, cistus and helichrysum essential oils to provide rich hydration, healing and restoration to tired, dry, or mature skin. I’ve been using it mainly as a night cream to leave it to do its magic while I sleep, and on particularly cold mornings to protect my skin from icy winds.

BEESWAX OINTMENT CALENDULA & CHAMOMILE 

Made with pure beeswax with skin-soothing and regenerative calendula and chamomile oils, this ‘Keralifi’, an ointment used traditionally in Greece for millennia and known to have immediate skin-healing properties, is especially recommended for baby skincare, dry and sensitive skin, mild skin irritations and rashes. I used it on my son’s upper lip and nose, which became red and cracked when he had a cold, and literally saw the skin heal considerably within hours of my first application.

BODY CREAM MYISIS INTENSIVE CARE

A rich body cream designed to deliver deep nutrition to the skin and has a strong aroma of relaxing, meditative sandalwood, one of the seven essential oils used in it. It’s suitable for all skin types, especially for dry skin. Using this as I step straight out of the shower and my skin is still a little damp, a little goes a long way and the feeling of hydration and aromatic comfort is lovely.

ORGANIC PROPOLIS TINCTURE

Propolis helps stimulate the immune system, while also being high in antioxidants, antiseptic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and healing properties. It’s also recommended for countering lethargy, brain fog, healing gums and perimenopausal/menopausal symptoms. I have been taking 15 drops in a glass of water (the medicinal taste is a little pronounced but pleasant enough) daily and I have been feeling more energised and clear-headed.

NATURAL SOAP ROSE & GERANIUM SOAP 

I’ve really been enjoying switching my shower gel for this creamy soap with a lovely aroma of rose and geranium essential oils that offers a sense of well-being and relaxation. The soothing oils don’t just smell good, they offer the skin moisture. For my face, I’ve been trying the NATURAL SOAP BAMBOO CHARCOAL & SHEA BUTTER in which the essential oils of antibacterial and soothing lavender, invigorating bergamot, mood-lifting patchouli and detoxifying bamboo charcoal with hydrating shea butter leaves my skin soft and nourished. 

Eugenia Chandris’ Magic Cabinet Filled With Greek Treasures

With a love for her homeland, Eugenia Chandris, an executive in the hospitality industry, writer and co-founder of Huffington Greece, has created an innovative platform experience “A Magic Cabinet”, featuring a world of contemporary Greek treasures.

Imagine you had a magic cabinet filled with a recollection of childhood summers in Greece. All those little things that remind you of beautiful moments and entrancing scents, happy places and loved ones you spent time with. You could just open this painted cabinet and be transported to a sensory wonderland; reliving your carefree childhood and remembering the dreams you once had.

Every object in the Magic Cabinet has been carefully selected, tested and researched by Eugenia Chandris herself; and each piece is accompanied by a lovely description compiled from interviews with the producers who reveal how and where Mrs. Chandris discovered them. IN+SIGHTS GREECE caught up with Mrs. Chandris, to chat about the Magic Cabinet, which leads people to a world of eclectic and unique Greek items, and allows people from around the globe to make their own personal magic cabinet- filled with wonders from Greece.

How would you describe who you are today, in a nutshell?

I don’t fit into a nutshell but if I have to condense it, I’m an energetic and restless person who is inspired by new projects, I love to work and create and I am a person who is deeply in love with Greece, with its light, its sea, its ancient soul.

What drew you to create the Magic Cabinet?

The desire to fuse a commercial e-shop with an editorial platform, to be able to sell premium Greek items but also to elaborate on the story of their heritage.

If you opened the door of the Magic Cabinet and there was a place behind it, which would it be?

Actually, I have often thought about that. The cabinet would open up onto a delightfully green and lush garden, warm and bathed in the sunshine; where people could fly through the air of their inspiration and be able to live out what they dream of. There would be kindness and positive thinking. It would be a wonderful place.

Tell us about some of the most unique places you have discovered treasures for the Magic Cabinet.

I discovered Verikokos’ marble atelier inside the castle of Naxos, stumbling down a narrow street after I had been running outside in the sunshine. I couldn’t see my way. I discovered Lord Amber, Meli Baba, and Onoiamata in a rather dismal whole food supermarket in Thessaloniki, taken there by a guy who finds producers for me. Nikos Vladikas ambushed me in one of the aisles, thrusting his tsipouro at me saying “This is the finest”. He is right. I made my decisions by meeting producers at fairs, then during Covid, online. Not strange but surely magical.

What do you love most about your work?

It is always fresh and interesting; I get bored easily. With this site I never am.

Describe to us your usual daily routine. 

I make sure I sleep for eight hours, as I feel sleep is essential for good skin cell repair and for the soul. I exercise six days a week, again this is important to me. In the office, I brainstorm with my wonderful team, write the texts, look at the business side of what we are doing and spend time in the stock room, studying the mix of what we offer.

Lately, there is a preference for “made in Greece” products. How did that come about? Is the soil “fertile” for that?

Yes, the time has been right for a while now. Greece should be featured so much more than this. A Magic Cabinet is trying to change that.

Tell us about recent changes in your industry.

I also work in the hospitality industry at the hotels my family is involved in –The Athens Marriot, The Met Thessaloniki, and the Chios Chandris. Covid has dramatically changed the way hospitality operates and it’s also affected online shopping, so I would say that event has changed most. Hotels are recovering and online has strengthened.

One thing that doesn’t change, is human contact. Hospitality is all about that and even though we are an e-shop, we are very excited about our pop-up events and our corporate business where we address our clients directly. 

If Greece were a feeling, which would it be?

Unadulterated joy, soaring inspiration.

What can we expect from the Magic Cabinet in the near future? 

With an emphasis on design, objects for the home, new Greek creators, A Magic Cabinet will always open up to something exciting, and it will always be rare and valuable, in a “soul” sense. Through the Magic Cabinet you can also create your own custom-made hampers, selecting from a range of unique Greek products or pick one of the already mixed hampers like “I feel like mezze in a shot”, “I feel like a sample of Greece”, “I feel like breakfast in bed”, “I feel like veranda cocktails” among others.

amagiccabinet

Your Greek Christmas Gift Guide

Christmas is around the corner and it’s time to discover the cornucopia of amazing Greek gifts you can find online to send to your loved ones near and far.

Here we have selected the best stores and products that scream “have a happy Christmas and blissful New Year!” From cosmetics and jewellery to home décor items, foods and traditional games like tavli, you’ll find everything at these eclectic stores that showcase some of the most sophisticated varieties of Greek products.

Choose from an exciting selection:

Inspired by holidays on the Aegean, The Nomad Edit offers thoughtfully collected pieces that have us dreaming of summer vacations. Each piece invites us to the Mediterranean; colorful markets, days leisurely spent seaside and sunset dinners alfresco. An online experience that lets you take a slice of the Mediterranean home with you.

Greek Cargo brings you authentic and carefully crafted pieces, sourced for their creativity by local and overseas Greek artisans. Experience the love of Greece with unique and quality made fashion, jewellery, homewares and exclusive products including lush candles and cute kids wear that are designed by Greek Cargo.

Some of our other favourite online stores that feature a range of amazing Greek items that are shipped worldwide: Made In Greece, The Greek Source and Forget Me Not. 

Hellenic Aesthetic is America’s first Greek fashion retailer offering a selection of Greece-based designers, whose thoughtfully made products reflect the beauty and vitality of Greek culture. Their aim is to make Greek-made products more accessible globally while promoting Greek craftsmanship, travel and culture.

Trending item:

Slippers are a big fashion item this winter, with lockdown life reminding us how essential home comfort is! Slippers are now even being worn outdoors but regardless of whether you want to keep your PJ look private or not, the Wooppers by Chryssa Adrakta are handcrafted, 100% woollen slippers with a breathable insulation that makes for are a super comfy choice.

…And then there are the foot-hugging, feel-good traditional Greek slippers, which apart from being extremely warm because they are made with pure wool, add a touch of Hellenic playfulness with their folksy designs and pompoms.

Komboloi

Designed to calm the mind and in some cultures used for meditation and prayer (mala beans in India and the rosary beads in the Roman Catholic religion), the komboloi comes in endless varieties. From giant komboloi that can be used as beautiful decorative items for a table to smaller renditions to carry in one’s pocket, with tassels in different colours and sizes, there’s something very calming about playing with beads. The semi-precious stones or other materials like seeds or wood are thought to go beyond a matter of aesthetic tastes and offer different qualities depending on the stone. Amber is the most famous type of bead for anxiety-relief, while amethyst is said to help create peace of mind and quartz crystal to help focus.

Food & Drink

There’s no greater pleasure than having a taste of home arrive in a beautiful box or basket to enjoy completely for yourself or share with loved ones. Elenianna has put together some lovely hampers to choose from, such as this Touch Of Greece Wicker Gift Basket overflowing with gourmet goodies.

Taste of Greece is another online store selling artfully presented, high-quality Greek food products, such as this Christmas Star hamper bringing traditional smells and flavours into your home.

Serious foodies may want to splash out on the Grecian Masterchef Gourmet Hamper by The Greek Purveyor, a box filled with a jaw-dropping array of high-end products that can be used to create Greece-inspired culinary magic.

Museum Shops

Athens’ most famous museums are always a reliable place to seek out original, creative and elegant gifts made by Greek designers.

The Theocharakis Foundation, which hosts permanent and periodic art exhibitions, concerts, talks and gatherings, presents items in its shop that reflect its cultural spirit. We love their sculptural pieces such as Elia, Karavaki and the Lovers.

Cycladic Art Museum
You’ll also find a wide and inspiring selection of things – from décor items to jewellery and artworks, from abstract and modern to classical and antiquity-inspired, at the Cycladic Museum shop. We like the very unique Cycladic figurine Xmas tree decoration.

Benaki Museum
At the Benaki Museum store you’ll find an incredible variety of art, utilitarian items, decorative pieces, jewellery and more made by Greek designers in commemoration of Greece’s 200 Years since the War of Independence. There are also more Christmassy items to choose from, such as their three-dimensional Christmas tree balls made out of material and hand painted balls, ceramic pomegranates inspired by famous Greek artists and handmade origami decorations.

 

Main Image by Greek Cargo 

5 Greek Skincare Brands You Should Know About

During the last few years, our attention has shifted to natural skincare products -made in Greece- using the purest elements that mother earth has to offer.

Whether you live in Greece or you visit the country for a holiday, embracing the “shop local” philosophy is the perfect reason to clean up your top shelf and make room for these under-the-radar Greek eco-friendly skincare brands.

Euthalia

Yiayia Euthalia learned from a very young age how to use the beneficial herbs of her island, Skopelos, and to include them in her daily routine. She created her own recipes for soap and waxes, which gave inspiration to her granddaughter (who also inherited her name) to launch Euthalia Natural Cosmetic Values in 2012. Τhe Greek word “euthalia” describes a state of flourishing or thriving.  

The key ingredient of Euthalia is the extra virgin olive oil combined with essential oils and extracts of aromatic and medicinal plants- creating beneficial compositions for the body and soul. 100% natural, Euthalia cosmetics, pay tribute to the eternal power of nature and to the traditional values and virtues of Greek culture.

MIELĒV

Marialena Baklatzi spent her childhood in the colourful, enchanting rose garden kept by her family. While the women of the house produced rose water extracts for personal use, Marialena observed, recorded, and slowly developed her love for nature and the treasures it has to offer.

She began to produce creams for her personal use and after three years of extensive research and development, in cooperation with an excellent team of internationally renowned scientists and dermatologists, MIELĒV from dream became a reality in 2020, launching her company in Athens. MIELĒV is derived from the French verb “Je m ‘élève” which means “to elevate me”. A range of natural and organic skincare lines, with ingredients that heal the skin, satisfy the senses, and offer immediate, visible results. 

Tzimas Cosmetics

In 1957, a family of chemists-cosmetologists, John, George and Lila Tzimas dedicated time to the research and production of Greek skincare, beauty and wellness products, that cover the needs of face, body, and hair. “Every skin is different and has unique needs”. With this belief, the company began producing personalized products and services.

The treatment line offers solutions for hydration, cleansing, freshening, anti-aging, regeneration, firming and sun protection for all skin types. The composition of Tzimas cosmetics consists of ingredients of natural origin, herbal extracts, mainly from the Mediterranean flora, Greek extra virgin oil and other vegetable oils, amino acids and bioactive peptides, algae extracts and other elements of marine origin, vitamins and essential oils.

Nemertes

The production of Greek cosmetic company Nemertes, is based on pure, virgin olive oil of superior quality and blends of precious oils, herbs and healing materials from the Greek land, creating personal care and wellbeing products respecting people and the environment.

Nemertes is a mythological figure mentioned in the Iliad. Daughter of Nereus and Oceanida Dorida, granddaughter of the Ocean, nymph of the sea and one of the fifty Nereids. She represents philanthropy and people who follow and achieve their goals. They combine the precious legacy of Greek tradition with the most modern scientific methods and high aesthetics- passionately creating what a contemporary person needs today; physical health, mental euphoria and a positive attitude to life! Their products are produced in small quantities to ensure excellent quality and full control capability.

Bee Naturalles

After completing their studies in science, environment, and art, George and Chara decided to leave the city and settle in Evia. They set up their workshop there in order to combine tradition with nature. They managed to “enclose nature” into their products. Bee Naturalles was founded in 2013 and their products’ 100% natural composition encloses the beneficial and healing power of nature.

Bee Naturalles products are mixtures of natural raw materials, such as organic bee products, herbal extracts and essential oils, with only natural preservatives. Their production is “dictated” by nature, according to its own rhythms and seasonal alternations.

Greek Organic Cosmetics That Made my Summer!

Over the last decade, Greek cosmetics companies have seriously upped their game and are now creating products that can easily compete with some of the world’s best brands.

High-quality cosmetics made with pure, innovative, natural, and sweet-smelling ingredients make me very happy. They don’t just make me feel and look better, they help reverse problems, offer deep nurturing, and prevent future issues. As with almost everything by now, I like to shop local, not only for environmental reasons but also to support the many charismatic producers around the country. 

This summer I stocked up on sophisticated products to use on my one-month island holiday as well as the city, choosing from three of the country’s top natural/organic brands: Eolia Cosmetics, Dos Cosmetics, and BioSelect. Here are the tried and tested products that have added beauty, joy, feel-good textures, and aromas – not to mention noticeably impressive results – to my summer:

Eolia Cosmetics 

GOLD STAR!
Eolia Lip Balm with St John’s Wort Oil
The only lip balm I’ve ever used that has a light texture and immediately and ongoingly soothes my lips. The sweet smell of St John’s Wort herb with honey, propolis & beeswax reminds me of the delicious aromatic wafts that come from island fields that have been sitting under the sun. 

GOLD STAR!
Greek Sun-kissed Bronzer
This dry oil bronzer with Argan oil, vitamin E oil, and olive oil for deep moisturisation & nourishment has added daily nourishment and glamour to my arms, chest, legs, thighs and even hair. It’s perfect for adding a glow any time of day and helps to prolong your suntan while soothing the skin from sun exposure.

Pomegranate & Aloe Vera body butter
A mix of fruits and herbs from Laconia, plus St John’s wort oil, natural beeswax, and honey that smells soothingly sweet and fruity and has a rich, nutritive texture. A bedside buddy that I used regularly on my hands, legs, and feet before sleep. 

Instant Lift Serum
Lifting active pearls combine hyaluronic acid molecules with natural bio-saccharides that form a three-dimensional grid of instant tightening and are proven to provide deep and lasting hydration, improve skin appearance, reduce blemishes, smoothen wrinkles and give a bright, youthful, restful look. This gel dries quickly and revives the skin, making it perfect for application before makeup on evenings when I’m heading out.

GOLD STAR!
After Sun
This incredibly cooling cream-gel with aloe, Greek yogurt, cucumber, and vitamin E instantly soothes away any kind of redness, dryness, or irritation that can result from overexposure to the sun (guilty as charged!). Even better when kept in the refrigerator.

DOS Cosmetics 
A 100% natural glitter oil was my other secret weapon in creating post-beach glow!

GOLD STAR!
Tanning Oil
This tanning oil only has a 3SPF, with oils that accelerate the natural tan while protecting the skin from premature aging. It contains antioxidants that bind free radicals while maintaining the elasticity and moisture of the skin. The best part is the delightfully exotic aroma that Dos describes as a Californian-Caribbean-Greek blend!

GOLD STAR!
Sunscreen 50+ SPF | UVA UVB Light Serum
This face sunscreen was my daily face serum, which I applied pre-sun and again at the beach after several hours. With 50SPF it protects from UVA / UVB rays while preventing dark spots and hyperpigmentation through its powerful antioxidant action. 

 

BIOSELECT Naturals 

Face Tonic Lotion
This gentle skin toner with dictamelia, hibiscus, aloe (which soothes, softens and revitalizes) and green tea, which protects from oxidative damage was part of my morning skincare routine. It helped wipe away any greasiness from the night and tighten my pores.

Nourishing Body Butter
A rich, natural buttery cream, which provides intensive hydration to your skin also has dictamelia, which protects from oxidative damage as well as shea butter, which is rich in vitamin E and aloe, so it offered my sun-kissed body a deep nourishing action.

 


GOLD STAR!
Hair & Body Fragrance Mist Piña Colada
Several people asked me what fragranced I was wearing whenever I liberally spritzed this cheering stuff on myself. With exotic coconut and monoi de tiare oils and a light hint of pineapple, it both revived and soothed me. 


Body Sugar Scrub – Exfoliate & Polish – Piña Colada
I used this delicious organic sugar scrub with coconut oil, organic olive oil, orange essential oil & monoi de tiare oil in the shower every four to five days to scrub off dead cells and enjoy a smooth, silky result.

Bring Greek Summer Into Your Life in a Few Easy Steps!

Like Greek sunshine, Greek-style makes life brighter. There’s nothing like the elegance and summery joyousness of designs inspired by traditional and classical Greek symbols, colours, shapes, and textures to enrich your home and personal style. 

Here, IN+SIGHTS GREECE has made an expert selection of the best accessories, items, and homewares that spell Greek Summer like nothing else and can be bought online with one click.

Home Décor

The use of ceramics for practical and decorative purposes dates back to antiquity, and a trip to the Archaeological Museum will travel your mind to designs regaling elaborate stories or featuring incredible creative designs. Kerameio.gr presents a wonderful variety of ceramics to use, decorate and even wear. 

The Cycladic Art Museum shop features numerous ceramic objects that can be used for serving food or decoration. For ceramics, we especially like the bold Greek blue and white summer colours of designs by Paola Navone. 

 At the Benaki Museum shop you’ll find elegant candle holders inspired by ancient Athenian columns created by WAKS, ceramic sous verre by Eleni Kanellopoulou and several items celebrating the Bicentennary of the Greek War of Independence of 1821 by Elena Votsi, who designed the Olympic medals in 2004, including ceramic plates, cups and other items. Also by Elena Votsi are cushions with the Greek flags and the evil eye. 

Accessories

Maybe dressing Greek-style from head to toe is a little extreme but adding playful and stylish Greek accessories for the beach can be fun. 

We Design have used the fishmonger’s paper, traditionally for wrapping fish, to make an apron, bag and pareo. They have also made several Greek-themed items that one can construct, like the 3D Olive Tree.

Postfolk have taken a traditional ‘kendima’ design and turned it into an original beach towel named Eudaimonia through digital embroidery and hand-finished stitching. 

Ancient Kallos have designed a one-piece and a bikini swimsuit featuring the traditional Akrokeramo design. 

Cyclades have designed several beautiful cashmere and silk-blend scarves that can be worn day or night, featuring Greek-style colours and designs.

At Musitsa you’ll find a range of straw bags, including ones to ward away the evil eye.

Footwear:

Greek sandals have always been a la mode – from ancient times to the 60s when they had a fashion renaissance the likes of Aristotle Onassis, The Beatles and Elizabeth Taylor wore them to today, when designers like Pantelis Melissinos, whose father Stavros immortalized them with his craftsmanship, continues today to hand-craft a grand variety of styles. We like both the classic designs and his playful and artsy ones. 

Insights Greece - Bring Greek Summer Into Your Life in a Few Easy Steps!Vibi Venezia For Aigion’s shoes made with vintage material designed by Yiannis Tsarouchis can be found at the Cycladic Art Museum shop.

Ancient Greek Sandals offer an incredible selection, but we can’t go to the beach without their Ikaria design in Jelly. 

Ergon Mykonos’ espadrilles are a VIP favourite, and we can’t choose which design we like the most! Espadrilles and more espadrilles that are 100% cotton, hand-crafted, and uniquely Greek. 

Jewellery

TWY – Contemporary Sculptural Jewelry is wearable art that is hand-crafted 99.9% silver and guarantees you’ll shine in the sun with modern, Greek-themed necklaces, rings, and bracelets. 

These handmade bracelets by B612 at the Benaki Museum are completely unique, combining hand-woven fabrics with silver and gold.

Best Greek Summer Beauty Products for Glowing Skin

Golden, tanned and glowing are some of the adjectives thrown around when contemplating the appearance of Greeks in summer. 

With endless days that turn into nights spent at idyllic beaches in great company, savouring delicious cuisine and enjoying the best cocktails, make like the Greeks and be sure you have the following Greek beauty products and tools to get you through your summer days in the sun.

Insights Greece - Best Greek Summer Beauty Products for Glowing Skin

Carroten 

Carroten, the word that has become synonymous with Greek summer as the cult beach product for over 30 years. Using carrot for its exceptional antioxidant properties and the ability to amplify tanning as a source of its inspiration, it went on to expand its range with products to satisfy the needs of every skin type. Choose from a selection of 42 unique safe, dermatologically tested products. IG’s pick? The original, timeless Carroten oil for intense tanning, with the unique combination of rich tanning oils. This will give a fast and wonderful natural tan while nourishing and moisturising your skin.  

SPF 

Don’t be fooled by the shades of bronze on the sun-kissed bodies strewn on those sun loungers, SPF is always a must, and the one that Greeks turn to for is Carroten Wet Skin, the transparent sunscreen spray boasting SPF30 ease of application on wet or dry skin, and offering enhanced protection thanks to the advanced AQUASKIN technology. It also leaves no white residue. SPF is not just for your skin – don’t forget your tresses!  Protect your hair against the sun’s rays by spritzing it with Apivita Sunscreen Hair Oil for Protection and Hydration. Featuring a cocktail of oils (organic olive oil, abyssal oil, grape and jojoba oil) and carrot extract, it will protect and maintain the shine, colour and health of your hair under the sun. The intoxicating summery aroma will have you turning heads. 

After-sun care 

Give your thirsty skin and hair a cool drink after your day in the sun with refreshing after-sun products. Slather your body with Carroten’s After Sun Cool Gel, with organic Aloe, which helps soothe the skin and the process of cell regeneration. It is enriched with Panthenol and is deeply hydrating for up to 24 hours. Just as important is the non-stick texture and immediate absorption. Then apply an Express Beauty Apivita Face Mask with prickly pear to soothe and hydrate your face.  Prickly pear is a favourite summer fruit of the rural areas of the Mediterranean and immediately moisturizes and soothes the skin – perfect for use after sun exposure. 

A mini beauty fridge filled with Apivita masks 

Apivita needs no introduction as a brand that has innovated skincare for decades, and when it ran a competition to win a mini beauty fridge filled with its collection of face masks on its Instagram feed fans and followers went wild. The perfect way to store all your skincare and cosmetics on your travels, this cute, portable storage solution will keep your products cool, extend their shelf life, and add some pizzazz to your hotel bathroom.

 

Insights Greece - Best Greek Summer Beauty Products for Glowing Skin

5 Greek Candle Companies You Should Know About

Quarantine is keeping us home a lot more these days, so we found the perfect solution to make it cozier than ever.

Obsessing over Pinterest’s interior design and hygge philosophy is here to stay, so are cozy home goods, like scented candles. While you are alone, enjoying your abode and giving yourself a moment of quiet (with a glass of your favourite drink in hand) lighting your favourite scented candle is a “self-care must”. Don’t think twice, life is short, burn that candle and travel through its aromas. And to help you, we’ve rounded up 5 Greek candle companies that will enrich your aromatherapy candle collection while you are at it. 

Waks

Evie and Yiannis launched Waks in 2005, with a simple intention; to create beautiful candles to complement our mood and our spaces no matter the season, inspired by their daily life in Greece and the places they have visited. “We wanted to fill the gap that existed in the market for branded scented candles with what we considered the right quality, packaging, and price. There were no Greek companies with the same concept back then,” says Evie. 

Waks candles are filled with natural wax and set with 100% cotton wick. They are hand-poured in their production in Athens. There are so many scents available, such as pink sugar, fresh linen, ouzo, saltwater, jasmine, gardenia, sandalwood, sweet vanilla, and olive while and the holders are made of marble, wood, or mirror and can be kept forever and used as pot plants, stationery holders, even to store kitchen spices.     `           `           

If we had to choose only one Waks candle: The basil that reminds us of our summer gardens. 

Waks Candles

Insights Greece - 5 Greek Candle Companies You Should Know About
Waks Candles

Choé

Insights Greece - 5 Greek Candle Companies You Should Know About

Created in a historical Greek village in Corfu, CHOÉ candles are inspired by Ancient Greek culture, Mediterranean nature, and childhood memories. With names like Iris, Aetheria, Nefeli, Aura, Nectar, Ambrosia, it’s obvious why the brand is called CHOÉ, a word that refers to an offering made by the ancient Greeks to the Gods of the underworld, the Muses, the Nymphs, and to their ancestors. Today it’s an offering of harmony to our own senses. 

CHOÉ uses natural materials such as wood, fabric, glass, and bronze, while all product lines are hand-poured and handcrafted. Furthermore, every single CHOÉ candle is made only after your request guaranteeing freshness and proper care.

If we had to choose only one scented Choé candle: Melia Classic, inspired by nymph and Goddess Melia in a black and white vessel that reminds us of a piece of art; beeswax, fig and olive trees carried through the millenniums.

Choe Candles 

Helessence

Inspired by the timeless beauty of the Greek natural landscape, Helessence is a Greek brand of handmade candles from 100% vegetable soy wax and generously scented with unique combinations of aromatic and essential oils. 

Insights Greece - 5 Greek Candle Companies You Should Know AboutHelessence creates five unique collections, each with its own aesthetic and aromatic style. ESSENCE collection consists of mono-aromatic options from 100% pure essential oils of endemic plants of Greece with names like Iasmos, Thymos, Krokos, Kedros. The GRAECIA ALBA collection offers 15 options for several aromatic combinations. GRAECIA FUGA travels us to our favourite Greek destinations with its range of scented candles. MAISON DELUXE is the most gourmet scented collection of all. And finally, ELEMENTS is a premium line inspired by the elements of nature; Earth, Fire, Water, Air, and Ether dance together in an eternal cycle of creation. 

If we had to choose only one Helessence candle: PYR concrete candle, meaning “fire”. Essential oils of cinnamon, black pepper, and frankincense in a handmade pot made from recycled cement and sea sand. 

Helessense

Melicera

The taste of bees in jars! Melicera was born at the beginning of 2018 in Trikala by Jiota Nizami but not by chance. Her father and beekeeper Mr. John Nizamis planted the roots in 1985. Jiota had a long professional career in the field of Medical Lab in Switzerland before she made the decision to return to her motherland in order to create natural scented candles with 100% beeswax from her family’s hives. The scents are bourbon, citrus, French lavender, sandalwood, apple, and cinnamon in black, white, or a mix of orange honey and the burgundy of cognac vessel. 

Besides candles they produce honey under the name 4ANEMOI, which means four winds and owes its name to the four cardinal directions, since the beehives relocate every season, from North to South and from East to West, to give the delicate tastes of every region in Greece. 

If we had to choose only one Melicera candle: The NYMPH, inspired by the female beauty, freedom, and power, with the discreet and authentic aroma of pure beeswax. 

Melicera Candles

Insights Greece - 5 Greek Candle Companies You Should Know About
Melicera Candles

Nimbus Candles

After 20 years of making candles for friends and family, two young Greeks who lived abroad created Nimbus candles in 2009. An eco-friendly contemporary soy candle-making company with a vision for quality and aesthetics. Soy candles, poured by hand and put into luxurious glass jars or tumblers or metal containers, represent a serious eco-friendly alternative with multiple advantages over paraffin wax, which is a by-product from crude oil refinement and natural cotton wicks without metal thread of zinc or lead.

There is a wide range selection of scents, including cotton flower, jasmine, lavender, lotus, sandalwood rose, cucumber and melon, French vanilla, wild fig, baby powder, amber, and ylang, white musk, and bamboo among others. 

If we had to choose only one Nimbus candle: The Spa scent that invokes feelings of a relaxing day at the spa. Fresh marine and citrus accords are blended with just a hint of flowers and musk. 

Nimbus Candle