TRAVELLING IN GREECE / ATHENS: The city that created the democracy!

Difficult to choose only one designation for the capital of Greece, which is a centre of culture and history, culture and modernity, life and fun, flavours, aromas and sensations. The city which hosted Aristotle, Platon, Socrates, Euripides, Aeschylus, Sophocles, Aristophanes, Pythagoras and Homer ... The city which, even if today is a reception centre for illegal immigrants and gangs, doesn't cease to lose its prestige and dignity. Athens, the Lady of the world, as a good hostess, waiting with open arms to welcome all visitors from every corner of the world.

THE ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES, landmark of the city is the first thing to visit. Starting from the "Sacred Rock", Acropolis, in the heart of the capital, with Propylaia, the Temple of Athena Nike, Parthenon - the epitome of ancient classical art, temple of the goddess Athena, Erechtheion with the Caryatides, the Theatre of Dionysus and Herodes Atticus Theatre. Then, the Roman Forum, the centre of politics, commerce, philosophy, religion, arts and sport, from the 6th century BC, with the Stoa Vasileios, the Temple of Hephaestus and Tholos. After, the Roman Forum and the Tower of the Winds - the octagonal tower with personifications of winds on each side. Still, Kallimarmaro or Panathenaic Stadium and the Temple of Olympian Zeus, which was the largest temple in Greece during the Hellenistic and Roman times.

THE ATTRACTIONS of the city are equally important, pioneered by Syntagma Square, which also hosts the Greek parliament, the National Gardens, the picturesque neighborhoods Plaka, Monastiraki, Thissio, Psyrri, Gazi - with its numerous café-bar and the famous "Technopolis ". Even, from one hand Exarchia - an infamous area which hides real big surprises for anyone interested to discover - and from the other hand Kolonaki - the haunt of Athens' enfant gateaux. Then, Piraeus - the biggest port of Greece, with the famous Pasalimani, the beautiful neighbourhoods and the Stadium of Peace and Friendship. Aso, Lycabettus, the hill in the centre of the capital that provides a panoramic view of the city, the Olympic stadium and, finally, the Hill Filopappos, offered for a few hours of relaxation.

THE MUSEUMS numerous and highly significant, offering full knowledge of the history and culture of Greece. Most notable is the New Acropolis Museum - which opened its doors to the public in 2009 and houses more than 4,000 objects of great archaeological importance, the National Archaeological Museum - with a large Cycladic and Mycenaean collection, the Museum of Cycladic Art, Benaki Museum - which houses among other, paintings of the famous painter El Greco and Thessally Treasures, the Byzantine Museum, the National Gallery, the Museum of War etc.

THE ENTERTAINMENT in Greece never stops, thus Athens offers many options for every taste. So one can choose any of the hundreds of bars and clubs in the city, or if he prefers something more traditional, he can have fun in the famous "bouzoukia", watching some of the greatest Greek singers, attend a theatrical performance - perhaps an open theatre during the summer months, go to a concert or cinema, or even choose one of the famous Ouzo - Taverns and taste some of the traditional dishes of Greek cuisine. For younger fans of adrenaline, what better than the Allou Fan Park, the largest theme park in the country.

THE GREEK CUISINE is famous worldwide for its delicious flavours and it would be almost "blasphemy" not to honour it in an excursions in Athens. The most traditional dishes worth trying are the Mousakas, Greek salad, Gyros, Souvlaki, Pastitsio, Fasolada, Tzatziki and naturally the Greek feta.

THE MARKET for those wishing to do "Shopping Therapy" is located in the heart of the capital. Ermou Street is full of clothing - footwear, cosmetics, gifts, accessories and any other store you can imagine. A little further north are the Shopping Centres "The Mall" and "Golden Hall". And for the more wealthy visitors, the market of Kolonaki is the most chic choice.

CLOSE TO ATHENS are located for anyone who wants to go to a trip, Delphi - the navel of the Earth, Arachova - the perfect winter destination - and the islands Salamina, Aegina, Agistri, the beautiful Hydra, Spetses, Poros and Andros.

TIPS & USEFUL

1. Tickets: Book in time your air tickets, direct. International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos, through www.pamediakopes.gr or gr.skyscanner.com and take advantage of low prices. Low cost companies fly from various foreign destinations to Thessaloniki, Volos, Crete, Corfu, Kefalonia, Kos, Patras and Rhodes. Between the towns of Greece the movement can be made in several low cost ways like buses (KTEL), trains (TRAINOSE) and boats, between the islands and the various ports of the country.

2. To and from the airport: The best option is the Metro or the buses X93 (Kifisos - Athens International Airport Express), X95 (Syntagma - Athens International Airport Express) and CH97 (Station Daphne - Athens International Airport Express).

3. Accommodation: You can find a budget hotel room on Google. You can even consult www.booking.com!

4. Transportation: In Athens you can move with a single ticket with all means of transport such as the metro, city buses, night buses, tram, trolley, Electric or Interurban. You can even catch a taxi (expensive for very long distances and Airport Eleftherios Venizelos).

5. Discounts: Almost everywhere accept student identity cards and unemployed cards. Ask!

6. Currency: The official currency is Euro. For visitors with a foreign currency there are 2 options. Or would you put money into your account and you can withdraw from any ATM in Athens in EURO or  have in an account a small amount and make a withdrawal from the ATM at the airport just to buy a ticket or a transportation card, and then change currency at some currency stores in the centre which benefits too. DO NOT change currency at the airport, no interest at all.

7. Safety: Beware of Omonia Square, Attiki Square, Theatre Square, America and Koliatsou Square, Victoria Square and Agios Panteleimonas, especially during night-time. IN NO EVENT SHALL I avoid them. Just be careful! Athens is considered of the most secure cities in Europe and if you don't provoke there is no fear.
8. Sightseeing: There are free daily tours of the city centre. The tour guides are all professionals and offer a comprehensive view of the city. If you are completely satisfied, you can provide (optional) the amount you think fits, if not, there's no problem. LINK: http://www.athensfreewalkingtour.com/

... by Odysseas Karamitros!

TRAVELING IN GREECE / Thassos: The picturesque island!

Next to Thessaloniki and just a breath away from the beautiful Kavala, Thassos, a green dot in the Aegean Sea, is ready to welcome all visitors from Greece and abroad and offer them generously a low cost but also high quality's hospitality. With its blue waters and its evergreen pine forests can be easily identified as one of the most beautiful islands not only in Greece but worldwide. Creeks, wild cliffs and hidden caves promise unforgettable memories.

THASSOS or Limenas, the capital and main port of the island. Ideal for night rides, walks, fun at a small amusement park, beautiful taverns and any kind of market (due to the fact that many stores such as electronic, electrical, major supermarkets and banks are gathered in this area of ​​the island). Still, at Limenas somebody can admire the debris of the ancient city of Thassos and the ancient theatre. Should also visit the old harbour with its highly Greek elements.

THE VILLAGES that worth a visit are, from Limenas to the right, Panagia - the village with the quaint shops and the narrow streets, Skala Potamias with the waterfront eateries, the beach bar and the harbor, the cosmopolitan Potos with the restaurants, the shops and the nightlife, Theologos - a picturesque cobblestone village (ideal place to eat goat meat), Limenaria - also famous for its nightlife, Maries with its waterfalls and the natural beauty, Skala Marion with the small port, Skala Kallirachis with the palm trees in the side of the harbour and Skala Prinou - which is the second port.

THE BEACHES of the island that worth a visit are, from Limenas to the right, Saliara Beach - a beach with white pebbles and clear blue water that one should definitely visit, the Golden Beach, the Paradise Beach - where due to the huge waves has been characterized by many as Hawaii, Psili Ammos with the cold water and finally the beach with the 50 steps before Skala Marion. From Skala Marion until Limenas the beaches are not that good.

GKIOLA or otherwise Baptismal is the famous natural swimming pool in a rocky coast of the largest island in the northern Aegean. The road to Gkiola is rough but a dip there will certainly reward your efforts. With direction from Astris to Archangel Monastery after passing the hotel Aeria immediately turn right to the Bungalows "SIRINES" and follow the dirt road. After the big slope and the even greater uphill park your car at the natural "parking" and from there follow the path downhill towards the sea on foot. Do not forget to wear sneakers as the path is very difficult.

THE FOOD is quite good in the various taverns of the island and relatively inexpensive. Avoid the tourist places because you will pay a lot without even dismissal fresh seafood.

THE ENTERTAINMENT offered varies depending on tastes. So one can choose to drink a cocktail at one of the bars and clubs of Potos, Limenaria or Skala Potamias, a beautiful tavern with live Greek music on any of the ports of the island or attend some concert or theatrical performance at the ancient theatre of Thassos, in Limenas.

USEFUL & TIPS

1. Transportation to the island: Ferry Boats depart every hour or less from Kavala to Prinos (4.70 €), or from Keramoti to Limenas (3 €). Tip: Before your trip buy bread, crisps or biscuits because the seagulls following the boat are ... hungry!

2. Transportation in the island: The ring road of the island is 98 kilometers in total. The bus routes are not very frequent and the last bus stops by area at around 16.30 so it is useful to travel either by car or to rent one there. Even cheaper is to rent a quad bike or a motorbike. DO NOT rent bikes if you're not English :-) or at worst ATHLETES.

3. Accommodation: The rooms to rent cost less than hotels. In Potamia there are "Studios & flats for rent by NIKI" where prices for a triple room start from 25 euros.

4. Beaches: If you want an advice, start a tour around the island from Limenas to the right and then stop for a swim at any beach you like!

 

... by Odysseas Karamitros!

TRAVELING IN GREECE / LESVOS: A plane-tree leaf in the Aegean Sea!

Lesvos, or Mytilini, if you prefer, the third largest Greek island (after Crete and Evia), so serene, with its beautiful villages, the magnificent beaches, the narrow streets, the beautiful market and the picturesque harbour is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and special destinations. And if you feel that in summer this island is magical, you can not even imagine how it is in winter. Personally I am in many ways very close to Lesvos, since a piece of my mind and soul is permanently there, and after the eighth in order visit there, I decided to write about the magic of this island as I experience it every time I visit it.

MYTILENE, the island's capital. A beautiful city with a very traditional style. Above the port area, the market and the castle are the most impressive parts of Mytilene. From the port you can admire the front of the amphitheatrically built town, in the market you can visit the church of St. therapists, to make shopping or even to walk from one side to the other, watching the windows of the stores and finally, the castle or in the park next to it you can pass a few moments of relaxation, admire the panoramic city and experience the many years of the island’s history.

THE VILLAGES scattered around the map, each distinguished by its unique beauty and bold tradition that the inhabitants tend to hold. Molyvos (or Mithymna) to the north of the island, thanks to the architecture of buildings as well as its geographical position gives the impression that you are in Riviera of Italy, amphitheatrically built with colourful houses and the castle at the top, is one of the most beautiful areas of Lesvos. A little further south to Molyvos, Petra (in Greek means Rock), which took its name from the huge rock which is situated in the village centre and hosts on the top the temple of Virgin Mary Glykophilousa (Loving Kindness). Near Petra, at an altitude of 150m., Mantamados, the village of pottery, with its famous monastery of the Archangel Michael and the delicious donuts. To the west of the island, Sigri, a beautiful village with a port, with huge waves crashing on the rocks outside the harbour and the endless natural beauty, hospitality and the natural history museum dedicated to the Petrified Forest, located just further east, where the lava and volcanic ash encounter the deep blue Aegean Sea, is the larger of the two major petrified forests in the world (the other is the petrified forest national Park in Arizona). And then, do not miss to visit Eressos, where takes place every summer the International Women’s Festival (Lesvos’ Lesbian Festival), Kalloni, which produces the famous pickled sardines of Kalloni, Plomari, which made ​​the world famous ouzo Plomari, Agiasos, perhaps my favourite village in Lesvos, built to high altitude, with narrow streets and shops, with people packed in summer but beautiful in winter, with the famous "Café Theophilus" and the Virgin Mary of Agiasos. 

THE BEACHES that worth to be visited are numerous, with most basic the beach of Vatera, which is the longest beach in the Balkans, especially cold and deep, with large waves, the incomparable beauty Tarti, one of the lesser known beaches of the island and with a landscape really true nature, a quiet bay with a rock in the centre and two taverns exactly where the waves pop, Golden Sands, the pebbled beaches of Skala and Skala Mystegnon, Scala of New Kydonies, Scala Skamias, Petra and Anaxos, with sandy beaches, attract bathers, while privacy and seclusion offers the graphical Tsichranta, a few miles west, Eftalou and Evreiaki beach, and in Plomari, Agios Isidoros, Melina, Drota and Ammoudeli.

OTHER AREAS of the island worth visiting is Gera with Perama, Papados, Paleokipos and Skopelos, as well as Polichnitos.

THE MARKET of the city offers a wide variety of products both clothing and footwear, and food and souvenirs. In the centre of the city, the church of St. Therapontas, built by the famous architect Argiris Adalis, dominates the area and impresses with its construction. Cross the city centre and head to the famous castle.

AYVALIK, the town in the coast of Turkey, ideal for a daily excursion by boat departing from the port of Mytilene. It takes just an hour and you can travel with a passport or only with the new ID card and the price is very low. Ayvalik has one of the largest markets of Turkey, from where visitors can buy branded products in very low prices. If you're going to, make sure you have a medium-sized suitcase together and enough money to refresh your wardrobe.

ENTERTAINMENT in Lesvos is not like to the other islands of the Aegean Sea. The most coffee-bars are at the port of Mytilene and are open until the early morning hours. Often, great artists perform concerts or live in music halls of the island, especially in Iera club, Gera Bay. In summer many theatres tour in the city of Mytilene.

TIPS AND USEFUL

1. Tickets: Book in time your airline tickets through pamediakopes.gr or gr.skyscanner.com and take advantage of the low prices. Otherwise access to the island you can have with a shipping company from Athens, Thessaloniki or Kavala. LINKS: www.pamediakopes.gr, www.gr.skyscanner.com
2. Accomodation: You can find a budget hotel or a room by calling the corresponding accommodation, which you can found easily with a search on Google. You might also consult booking.com!
3. Food: Enjoy traditional cuisine in one of the quaint seaside tavernas on the island.
4. Transportation: The Intercity Bus network is quite good compared to other islands, especially during the morning hours. However I suggest for your convenience to rent a car and enjoy the island. PAY ATTENTION ... Driving in Mytilene is a dangerous sport.
5. Advice: Climb the narrow alleys of Molivos up to the castle at the top, navigate to the area and finally enjoy an outdoor hot or cold beverage in the harbour area with your love… Trust me!

To my dearest one!

…by Odysseas Karamitros!