Greece in the spotlight of the Belgian travel market

High expectations for Greek tourism in 2025 from the Belgian market were recorded during the Greek Tourism Workshop in Antwerp, which concluded on the afternoon of Thursday, October 24, at the Radisson Antwerp Berchem Hotel.

During the event, organized by Tourism Media & Events, an intensive series of Business-to-Business (B2B) meetings took place between Greek tourism enterprises and destinations and leading Belgian tour operators and travel agents.

The workshop was held under the auspices of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Embassy of Greece in Belgium, with the Region of Central Greece as the honored destination.

Sponsors of the event included the Region of Central Macedonia, the Region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, the Region of Crete, the Municipality of Rethymno, the Municipality of Volos, and SKY express.

Aegean Airlines served as the official airline sponsor, while leading travel news outlet tourismtoday.gr acted as the official media partner.

The Greek Tourism Workshops are aimed at tourism businesses and public bodies interested in promoting their services and products, with a focus on alternative tourism, gastronomy tourism, and luxury travel, while simultaneously facilitating the conclusion of commercial agreements.

At the same time, they are addressed to export-oriented companies seeking to establish or expand their presence in key international markets.

The Greek Tourism Workshop was honored by the presence of the Ambassador of Greece to Belgium, Ms. Sofia Grammata, who delivered an opening address.

Following the B2B meetings, destination presentations were delivered by Ms. Marianna Liaskou, Head of the Tourism Department of the Region of Central Greece; Ms. Elisavet Siaridou from the Tourism Promotion and Development Department of the Region of Central Macedonia; Ms. Patty Konstantinidou, member of the Tourism Promotion Team of the Region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace; and Dr. Kyriakos Kotsoglou, Deputy Regional Governor for Tourism and e-Governance of the Region of Crete.

It is noted that the next event by Tourism Media & Events, dedicated to the promotion of Greek luxury tourism, will be held in Chicago on November 21, 2024.

The 2024 program of the Greek Tourism Workshops will conclude on December 4 in Frankfurt, Germany—a market of particular significance for Greek tourism.

 

A vote of confidence for Greece from the Dutch market

With the participation of 73 leading Dutch travel agents and tour operators, the Greek Tourism Workshop concluded successfully in Utrecht, the Netherlands, on Tuesday, October 22, 2024.

Organized by Tourism Media & Events, the workshop took place at the modern Liemès business venue and featured hundreds of Business-to-Business (B2B) meetings between Greek destinations and tourism enterprises and Dutch companies operating in the travel industry.

The event was honored by the presence of Mr. Apostolos Michalopoulos, Head of the Economic and Commercial Affairs Office of the Embassy of Greece in The Hague, who addressed the audience with a welcome speech, highlighting the importance of strengthening tourism ties between the two countries.

Following the B2B meetings, presentations were delivered by Dr. Lavrentios Vasileiadis, Head of the Directorate of Education, Culture, Sports, Tourism, and Employment of the Region of Western Greece — this edition’s honored destination. Presentations continued with Ms. Argyro Papaioannou from the Department of Tourism Promotion and Marketing of the Region of Central Macedonia, Ms. Marianna Liaskou, Head of the Tourism Department of the Region of Central Greece, Ms. Patty Konstantinidou, member of the Tourism Promotion Team of the Region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, and Dr. Kyriakos Kotsoglou, Deputy Regional Governor for Tourism and E-Governance of the Region of Crete.

The event was held under the auspices of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Rural Development and Food, and the Embassy of Greece in The Hague. The main sponsor of the workshop was the Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO), with the Region of Western Greece as the featured destination.

Additional sponsors included the Region of Central Greece, the Region of Central Macedonia, the Region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, the Region of Crete, the Municipality of Rethymno, the Municipality of Volos, and the “Greek Breakfast” initiative of the Hellenic Chamber of Hotels.

Aegean Airlines served as the official airline sponsor, while media sponsorship was provided by Tourismtoday.gr.

It is worth noting that the Greek Tourism Workshops are addressed to tourism businesses and public entities aiming to promote their services and products, especially in the areas of alternative tourism, gastronomy, and luxury travel, while also seeking to establish commercial agreements. At the same time, they are directed at export-oriented enterprises that aim to penetrate or strengthen their presence in key markets.

The next Greek Tourism Workshop by Tourism Media & Events in the Benelux region is scheduled for October 24 in Antwerp, Belgium, followed by the flagship event highlighting Greek luxury tourism in Chicago, on November 21.

The 2024 program of Tourism Media & Events concludes on December 4 in Frankfurt, Germany — a market of strategic significance for Greek tourism.

 

Vote of confidence in Greece from Japan’s tourism industry

With the participation of 67 Japanese travel agents, the Greek Tourism Workshop Tokyo 2024 was successfully concluded in Tokyo on Wednesday, September 25.

This well-established, high-quality promotional event for Greek tourism, organized by Tourism Media & Events, takes place in destinations of direct or long-term interest for Greek tourism.

The event was held at the Hotel Gajoen Tokyo, under the auspices of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Rural Development and Food, while the Region of Central Macedonia was the honored destination.

Sponsors of the Greek Tourism Workshop Tokyo 2024 included Athens International Airport, Enterprise Greece, Fraport Greece, Aegean Airlines, and the “Greek Breakfast” program of the Hellenic Chamber of Hotels (HCH).

The event was honored by the presence and welcoming remarks of Mrs. Marina Spanou, Second Secretary for Economic and Commercial Affairs of the Embassy of Greece in Tokyo, and Mrs. Vicky Chatzivasileiou, Deputy Regional Governor for Tourism of the Region of Central Macedonia, while Mr. Tadashi Shimura attended on behalf of the Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA).

This was followed by a presentation of the honored Region of Central Macedonia by Mr. Leonidas Tsiantis, Head of the Tourism Directorate of the Region, who highlighted in the best possible way both the wider area and its particular focus on the Japanese market.

It is noted that the next events of Tourism Media & Events promoting Greek tourism will take place in Utrecht on October 22, 2024, and in Antwerp on October 24, 2024, as part of the Greek Tourism Roadshow.

This will be followed by the Greek Luxury Tourism Workshop, focusing on the promotion of Greek luxury tourism, in Chicago (USA), on November 21, 2024.

The 2024 program of international outreach events for Greek tourism by Tourism Media & Events will conclude with the Greek Tourism Workshop in Frankfurt, on December 4, 2024.

Corinthia: An enticing destination with a unique history for quality holidays

Corinthia: An enticing destination with a unique history for quality holidays

 

Starting from Ancient Corinth, our tour began in one of the most historic places in Greece.
Visit to Tenea at the Archaeological Service offices for a presentation of excavation findings.

Between the two villages of Chiliomodi and Kleinia lay the important city of Tenea.

According to Pausanias, its first inhabitants were of Trojan origin, captured by the Greeks on Tenedos and brought there as prisoners. Agamemnon allowed them to build homes. Virgil, on the other hand, claimed that both Tenea and Rome were founded by Trojans. According to myth, it is also the place where Polybus raised Oedipus.

The first significant find of the area is the Apollo of Tenea, or otherwise the Kouros of Tenea. The famous statue of the 6th century BC, excavated in 1854. In 2010, two more kouroi were found at a site where an extensive cemetery was revealed, crossed by an ancient road and dating to the 6th, 5th, and 4th centuries BC. Today, the two kouroi are exhibited at the Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth.

In the systematic excavation that began in 2013, led by Dr. Korka, an organized cemetery was identified around the 1984 burial, dating from the 6th to the 3rd century BC.

In 2018, remains of the city’s residential fabric were uncovered for the first time, with rich findings. In an area of 672 sq.m., roofed spaces with door openings were excavated, organized around internal courtyards. The archaeological research also revealed a unique for Corinthia two-chambered above-ground funerary monument dating to the 1st century AD, with its period of use extending to the 4th century AD.

This remarkable archaeological discovery was listed among the major historical and archaeological events of 2018 by the History network website.

Beyond the finds, another factor that makes this excavation unique is the relationships that developed between the local community and the members of the research team, leading to the creation of the “Friends of Ancient Tenea” association. A society that played a crucial role in the success of the entire program.

 

Stephanion Observatory

 

The observatory was founded in 1967 in Stefani, Corinthia, on the “Dragatoura” hill, following the interest of foreign scientists and the active support of local residents.

This observatory (Stephanion Observatory) is the first modern observatory in Greece. Between 1967 and 1973, many rising scientists passed through Stefani, who later became world-renowned astronomers, such as the Dutch Jan van Paradijs, a NASA researcher and one of the top astrophysicists in the world.

The first modern telescope in Greece and one of the largest of its time in Europe, the 30-inch reflecting telescope, was installed on 25.06.1971 in a shelter at the site, charting a new course for the Stephanion Observatory and for Greek astronomy in general.

The Cultural and Educational Association of Stefani, in collaboration with the Astronomy Group of the KEPAK of the Municipality of Corinth, frequently organizes Astronomy nights and parallel events at the Stephanion Observatory.

 
Lunch at the traditional tavern “Velanidia” in Stefani, Corinthia

A gastronomic paradise for food lovers. For those who appreciate good grilled meat, an outing to Stefani, Corinthia, and specifically to the tavern Velanidia, is a unique culinary experience!

Local meats, friendly service, generous portions, homemade bread baked in a stone oven served with local olive oil and oregano, marinated wild boar chops, meatballs in two delicious versions (lamb and ewe), as well as huge juicy beef steaks.

 
Dinner at KAZE

A unique experience of a summer escape from the urban landscape, at the most seaside point of the city.

The new vibe that KAZE brings to the Kalamia beach of Corinth runs through its entire operation and is reflected in the service, design, and menu.

With a design inspired by the natural environment, it welcomes you warmly throughout the day, making it the ideal destination to enjoy refreshing cocktails and selected gastronomic options by the sea.

 

Traditional breakfast in the village of Solomos, Corinthia at “Pietris” Bakery – Tasting of local delicacies

Almost five decades have passed since two self-made men decided to create the first wood-fired oven on the ground floor of their house in Solomos, Corinthia.

Today the third generation, faithful to the technique of bread-making (the sourdough loaf of Solomos), has managed both to preserve the store in Solomos and to expand, developing new activities in Attica and Corinthia.

From 1995 to today, the name Pietris became a “brand name” in the production of bakery and pastry products, continuing the tradition while keeping up with modern technology and organization. Day by day, with much effort and persistence, the family bakery grew into a bakery industry, acquiring its current legal name “Hellenic Bakery” and based in Corinth near the Isthmus.

 

Visit to the Ancient Port of Lechaion

The port of Lechaion was the main harbor – seaport of Ancient Corinth, a marvel of know-how and technology, first imitated by the Carthaginians and later by the Romans. It was named after Leches, son of Peirene and Poseidon. It is located on the Corinthian Gulf and was connected to the city of Corinth with long walls, a total length of 2,300 m. Between the walls lay the famous Lechaion road.

The port, which had two sections, the commercial and the naval station, was entirely artificial. It had three inner harbor basins and three outer ports. The excavated earth was heaped into two mounds, ensuring protection of the inner basins from the strong northern winds, which still exist today.

Along the ports, stone piers, moles, breakwaters, ramps were constructed, with a total length of 7 km, as well as a large number of warehouses and other port facilities for the thousands of tons of goods to and from the colonies of Corinth, and in the southwest a huge number of shipbuilding facilities, where triremes were built on behalf of other city-states, creating the first naval war industry, resembling that of today.

 
“The Lechaion Harbor and Settlement Land” Project

The general goals of the Lechaion Harbor and Settlement Land Project aim to document and preserve the site of Lechaion in order to:

  1. improve our understanding of the chronology of occupation at the port,
  2. document Greek and Roman harbor design on site,
  3. test theories of Roman colonial foundation practices,
  4. better understand the economic structures of diachronic trade in a Mediterranean maritime hub, and
  5. further improve our understanding of the destruction and abandonment of the site to identify environmental and social pressures that outweighed the need and usefulness of occupying one of antiquity’s most strategically located ports.

The excavation is conducted in 4 areas: AREA A, B, C, D.

The excavation of Area A will contribute to refining the chronology and occupation of the site, as most of our older finds (Mycenaean, Geometric, and Proto-Corinthian) come from within and around this building.

In this area, a human skeleton was uncovered, apparently a woman in her 20s. This is remarkable for several reasons. First, it does not appear to be a tomb but rather that she was crushed during the collapse of the building’s roof. Her chest was broken, her left arm raised apparently to her face, and her right arm behind her. So far, the lower part of her body has not been found. From the pelvis down she is missing. If she was indeed crushed by the collapsing roof, this may confirm that an earthquake in the late 5th century AD led to the abandonment of the harbor.

The ongoing excavation is critical and necessary not only because we are excavating a settlement now known to include fortification walls and a large circular building (Mausoleum – Area D, where sarcophagus fragments were found), neighborhoods, roads, and numerous structures, but also because we believe, based on excavation data, that the Roman settlement at the harbor—and not the famous city on the hill, Ancient Corinth—was the first focus of colonial activity. (In Area C, a two-phase Roman basilica is under excavation.

The best-preserved building dates to the Neronian/Flavian period, while the earlier remains are from the Augustan era. The presence of two early Basilicas at Lechaion currently fuels hypotheses about the initial location of the Roman colony’s administration). The harbor of Lechaion was a major hub for travelers, armies, goods, and new ideas circulating through the multicultural Mediterranean system.

The construction of the Diolkos, to facilitate transport between the Corinthian and Saronic Gulfs and thus between the western and eastern Mediterranean, demonstrates an early and profound understanding of the strategic connectivity between land and sea.

 

Project: The Lechaion Harbor and Settlement Land Project

A collaboration of the American School of Classical Studies with the Ephorate of Antiquities of Corinthia, under the direction of Professor George Spyropoulos, Deputy Head of the Ephorate of Antiquities of Corinthia, with co-director Professor Paul D. Scotton of California State University Long Beach. The research involves, among others, Dylan Rogers of Florida State University and former Deputy Director of the American School of Classical Studies, Katherine Harrington of the National Science Foundation, etc.

Sources:
https://lechaion.org/
https://www.archaeological.org/fieldwork/lechaion-harbor-and-settlement-land-project/

 

Transfer to Kalamia Beach, swim at the beach.

Moments of true relaxation in the most idyllic environment.

The large organized beach of Corinth with easy access and parking, where you can swim carefree and safely under the watchful eye of our lifeguard team. Sand and pebbles, shallow waters, and a magical sunset. Just above, many cafés, tavernas, souvlaki shops, and all-day bar-restaurants offer anything you may desire.

Kalamia Beach has been included since 2021 among the awarded Blue Flag beaches. A beach that last year raised the bar very high, aiming for European recognition.

 

Light lunch at Montezuma & wine tasting with award-winning organic wines from Manolakis Winery

In the early 2000s, Dimitris and Thanasis returned to their homeland, Agios Vasileios in Corinthia, and united their dreams. With love for nature, they began cultivating their own organic vineyards. With passion, they created a small winery, and over the years they began to grow their business.

With the vision of highlighting the quality characteristics of the Greek vineyard and creating a distinctive identity for the products of Corinthian land, in 2002 they produced their first organically grown wine.

Today, the Manolakis estate continues to be based on the family’s love for high-quality wines, as well as the ambition to showcase the uniqueness of Corinthian wine.

 

Tour of the Ancient Port of Cenchreae and the point where the Apostle Paul’s journey begins

This was the second harbor – seaport of Ancient Corinth, where innovative methods of harbor construction were also applied. It too had two sections, commercial and military. It was named after Cenchrias, twin brother of Leches, son of Peirene and Poseidon.

This harbor was partly natural, with north and south capes, and partly artificial, with two breakwaters built in extension of the capes—30 m high from the seabed, shaped like a horseshoe—creating a large harbor basin with an entrance 120 m wide. The maximum width of the harbor was 280 m, and the maximum distance from the central mole to the breakwaters at the entrance 210–215 m. On the northeast side, a pier 17 m wide and 106 m long was built, with another opposite of similar width and about 170 m long.

In the area, simultaneous subsidence of the land and rise of the sea occurred, with the result that Roman buildings now lie at sea level, while archaic and classical ones are below it. Extensive archaeological excavations at the harbor have revealed a wealth of information and many finds, the rarest being a series of glass tesserae panels (precursors of today’s stained glass), kept at the Isthmia Museum.

At the harbor, beyond the extensive warehouses, shops, and public buildings, which flourished especially during the Roman era, a temple of Aphrodite, of Isis, and early Christian churches were discovered.

From this harbor, Apostle Paul traveled to Rome during his great missions for the spread of Christianity.

Apostle Paul, one of the most important figures of early Christianity, visited the city of Corinth three times, and his “Letters to the Corinthians” are outstanding examples of Christian discourse. Today, Apostle Paul is the patron saint and protector of the city.

 
Visit to the Thermal Springs of Oraia Eleni with a long history spanning many years

The therapeutic action of its waters was known to the local inhabitants, and it is no coincidence that in summer (as the waters there are very cold) the spring becomes a meeting point for many women (mostly) of different ages, who enjoy their bath or wait in line to sit under a rock. This is because at this spot they experience one of the most beautiful and powerful natural hydromassages. An unforgettable experience.

The water of the thermal spring of the Oraia Eleni Baths gushes from three points at the base of a rock, right next to the sea.

The natural resource “water of the Oraia Eleni Baths” has a temperature of 20.1°C. The spring’s water flow is 100 cubic meters per hour, and the natural resource is classified and identified as hypertonic, chlorinated, sodium-rich, calcium-rich, bicarbonated, strontium-rich, brominated, boron-rich, alkaline, hypothermal mineral water.

The water of the Oraia Eleni springs can be used for balneotherapy and is indicated for diseases of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems, diseases of the peripheral vascular system, as well as dermatological and gynecological conditions. At the same time, the water of the thermal springs is contraindicated for infectious diseases, systemic and malignant diseases, as well as liver and kidney failure.

The Mayor of Corinth stated:

“The hospitality of journalists in the Municipality of Corinth, within the framework of the press trip, is an important initiative for the promotion and development of our region. Through their experiences and publications, we will be able to highlight our rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and the unique tourist opportunities that the Municipality of Corinth offers. Our vision for modern Corinth is to become a destination that combines history with modern infrastructure, offering visitors a complete and unforgettable experience. I am confident that our cooperation with the media will contribute significantly to achieving this goal.”

The Deputy Mayor of Tourism and Education, Mrs. Dimitra Tsouloucha, stated:

“We are excited to have had the opportunity to host distinguished journalists in the Municipality of Corinth. Through this initiative, we aim to showcase the rich culture, history, and natural beauty of our region, strengthening tourist promotion and development for 2024.”.

Ancient Port of Lechaion
Ancient Port of Lechaion
Thermal Springs of Oraia Eleni
Kalamia Beach
“Pietris” Bakery

Western Greece. An “epic experience” for every visitor!

Western Greece. An “epic experience” for every visitor!

 

Starting from the “GRAND ELIS RESORT” in Savalia, Ilia, our tour began with two of the most important destinations of Western Greece, Ilia and Achaia.

In the western part of the Peloponnese, in an oasis of peace and serenity by the sea, in the area of Savalia, overlooking the island of Zakynthos and next to an 85,000 sq.m. pine forest, lies the Grand Elis Hotel Spa Resort, an idyllic five-star luxury hotel for dream holidays in the Peloponnese. A place where the vitality and beauty of nature spark the imagination and awaken the senses.

The brand-new eco-friendly complex, where the blue of the sea and the green of the nearby forest and its gardens dominate, offers luxurious accommodation in line with the highest standards of hospitality.

With 82 luxury rooms and suites, across three buildings, the Grand Elis Hotel Spa Resort guarantees the optimal holiday experience. Natural light and the magnificent views of the sea, the lush gardens and the large pool, the exceptional architecture and modern amenities together create the ideal setting for moments of relaxation and rejuvenation.

Guests can unwind on comfortable luxury loungers by the pool, enjoying the sun and refreshing cocktails for a revitalizing experience. Alternatively, they can enjoy the hotel’s private beach with its renowned golden sand and the crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea, for an equally exciting experience from the early morning hours until sunset.

More at: https://www.grandelishotel.gr/

 

Welcome dinner at the “GRAND ELIS RESORT”.The Gastronomic Identity of Grand Elis is directly linked to local – thematic gastronomy and the products that highlight it.

At Grand Elis you will not simply discover the richness of Greek cuisine, but embark on an unforgettable culinary journey “from the fields of our land to your plate.”

Every dish carries the taste of the local. Wonderful dishes, prepared with exceptional care, invite you to discover the quality of the local products of Ilia’s fertile and abundant land. From local olives cultivated by small producers and the olive oil, to seasonal fruits and vegetables, meat and seafood, and fresh greens.

 

Tour of the Achaia Clauss winery, the oldest winery in Greece
This is a historic winery, founded in 1891. Today its products are produced in state-of-the-art facilities, a few kilometers away from its original site. A true oasis, it passes on its beauty, tradition, and history through time, to the thousands of its visitors and to those who love and care for the preservation of its unique identity.

Achaia Clauss is a page from our region’s history that stubbornly refuses to grow old, retaining all the freshness and aroma of the adventures that unfolded since 1854, when the rebellious young bohemian Gustav Clauss challenged the customs and social status of his time, gradually creating Greece’s oldest Wine Ambassador to the world, leaving indelible marks on the history of winemaking. In 2018 it founded a Wine Club.

 

Visit to the Archaeological Museum of Patras

The Archaeological Museum of Patras is located at the northern entrance of the city and housed in a building constructed in 2008, designed by architect Theofanis Bobotis. It covers a total area of 5,955 sq.m. and includes three large halls for the permanent exhibition, one hall for temporary exhibitions, modern reception and visitor service areas, an auditorium, refreshment facilities, conservation laboratories, storage rooms, and an outdoor area that also serves as a parking lot for visitors’ vehicles.

The museum’s permanent exhibition features finds dating from the 4th millennium BC to the 4th century AD, originating from the city of Patras as well as from areas of southern and western Achaia.

 

Lunch in the Kourouta area, Axilleion Mare Restaurant
In the heart of Kourouta is located the seaside tavern “Axilleion Mare Restaurant.” The locals call it “Dino,” a nickname that has accompanied its owner for many years.

At “Axilleion Mare Restaurant” you will find delicious pot roast and the best homemade meatballs, a variety of traditional cooked dishes, and above all, fresh fish.

 

Kalavryta Ski Center_ Visit to the Helmos Festival 2024
https://festival.kalavritaski.gr/programma/#scedule

The first festival of outdoor activities and music that marks the start of summer, held in the heart of the Helmos-Vouraikos National Park and UNESCO Global Geopark, at the Kalavryta Ski Center.

An event that redefines the horizons of Greek festivals, broadens the scope of mountain sports and recreation centers, and gives the wider public the opportunity to discover the mountains of Greece in an exciting way, filling the participants’ bags with unique moments and powerful emotions.

The Kalavryta Ski Center is the first ski resort to host an event of this scale, providing both economic relief and new perspectives for a municipal enterprise that has been steadily developing in recent years.

One of the primary aims of the event is the harmonization of humans with the natural environment. To achieve this, a series of outdoor activities and parallel events are organized for both children and adults. The vision of the organizers is for Helmos to become “a mountain for everyone,” a home for thousands of campers who have the opportunity to stay in specially designated camping areas, and for three days the foothills of Helmos to become their home.

All this with the sole purpose of showcasing while also protecting the wider area of Helmos, which is part of the Helmos-Vouraikos National Park and UNESCO Global Geopark.

 

Visit to the Holy Monastery of Mega Spilaio

The most extraordinary religious pilgrimage of Orthodoxy in the Peloponnese is the Holy Monastery of Mega Spilaio, which inspires awe as it stands against a steep rock face at an altitude of 940 m. It took its name from the vertical rocky complex of Helmos on which it was built. Today, eight stories high, it rises “clinging” to the rock, impressing even the most indifferent visitor.

The katholikon of the Monastery, carved into the rock, is a cross-in-square church with two narthexes. The main church has frescoes from 1653, remarkable marble inlays on the floor, a carved wooden iconostasis, and more.

The Deputy Regional Governor of Tourism Development of the Region of Western Greece, Mr. Panagiotis Sakellaropoulos, referring to the unique beauties of the destination, stated among other things:

I am truly excited and happy about the organization of this trip, which took place as part of the annual tourism promotion activities of the Region of Western Greece 2024, as it gave us the opportunity to guide our distinguished journalist guests through beautiful places of the Olympic Land.

Our goal was to introduce them to points of interest in our wonderful land, so that our visitors would become partakers of the experience, be sensitized to our places, and pass on their impressions to their readership, television audience, and digital followers.

Within this framework, our esteemed guests toured the historic Achaia Clauss winery, admired the unique exhibits of the Archaeological Museum of Patras with its contemporary architectural aesthetic, and visited the state-of-the-art Kalavryta Ski Center and the Holy Monastery of Mega Spilaio.

This initiative is, for us, a highly effective tool that directly enhances the attraction of more visitors from Greece and abroad, so that others too may enjoy the unique experiences and knowledge gained by our guests during this short visit to the Olympic Land of our hearts!

Cairo: Greece a magnet for luxury tourism

 

With the participation of Egypt’s leading travel agents and tour operators specializing in luxury travel, the Greek Luxury Tourism Workshop organized by Tourism Media & Events concluded successfully on Tuesday, April 23, in Cairo.

The strong attendance of Egyptian professionals clearly demonstrated the heightened interest in the 2024 travel season and confirmed the promising prospects of the Egyptian market for high-income tourism to Greece.

The event took place at the InterContinental Cairo Semiramis Hotel and was held under the auspices of the Hellenic Ministry of Tourism, the Ministry of Rural Development and Food, and the Embassy of Greece in Cairo.

The Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO) served as the main sponsor of the Greek Luxury Tourism Workshop.

The honored Region was Central Macedonia, while EGYPTAIR was the official airline sponsor.

Additional sponsors included the Region of Crete, the “Greek Breakfast” initiative of the Hellenic Chamber of Hotels, the Heraklion Chamber of Commerce, Aegean Airlines, and Mideast Travel Worldwide.

The event was honored by the presence of the Ambassador of Greece to Egypt, Mr. Nikolaos Papageorgiou, who delivered a welcome address, emphasizing the dynamic relationship between the two countries in the luxury tourism sector.

Following the conclusion of the B2B meetings, presentations were delivered by Mr. Leonidas Tsiantis, Head of Planning and Coordination of the Directorate of Tourism of the Region of Central Macedonia; Dr. Kyriakos Kotsoglou, Deputy Regional Governor for Tourism and E-Governance of the Region of Crete; Dr. Andreas Skouloudis, Deputy Mayor of Ierapetra; Ms. Katerina Mousmpe of Mideast Travel Worldwide; and Ms. Lena Stefanoudaki, Business Development Officer of the Heraklion Chamber of Commerce.

The event was also featured on Nile News, Egypt’s prominent news television network.

Focused on Cairo’s luxury travel market, the Greek Luxury Tourism Workshop represented another strategic step by Tourism Media & Events in enhancing Greece’s positioning as a premier destination for high-end tourism.

All Greek tourism professionals who traveled to Cairo expressed their enthusiasm, having completed a large number of appointments. Hundreds of targeted B2B meetings were held, allowing participants to strengthen their networks and build new partnerships with representatives of Egyptian companies active in the luxury travel segment.

 

 

 

 

Greece positioned as a leading luxury destination for Kuwait

With an impressive turnout, the Greek Luxury Tourism Workshop, organized by Tourism Media & Events, concluded on the evening of Tuesday, April 16, in Kuwait City.

Hundreds of targeted meetings were held between Kuwaiti travel agents and Greek participants, reaffirming the strong interest of the Kuwaiti market in Greece as a premier destination for luxury tourism and gastronomy.

The event took place at the prestigious St. Regis Kuwait and was held under the auspices of the Hellenic Ministry of Tourism, the Ministry of Rural Development and Food, and the Embassy of Greece in Kuwait.

The Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO) served as the main sponsor of the Greek Luxury Tourism Workshop, with the Region of Crete being the honored destination.

Additional sponsors included Mideast Travel Worldwide, the “Greek Breakfast” initiative by the Hellenic Chamber of Hotels, and Aegean Airlines.

The event was honored by the presence of the Ambassador of Greece to Kuwait, Mr. Ioannis Plotas, who delivered an official greeting.

Following the conclusion of the B2B sessions, a dedicated presentation of the honored Region of Crete was delivered by Dr. Kyriakos Kotsoglou, Deputy Regional Governor for Tourism and E-Governance. A presentation was also delivered by Ms. Katerina Mousmpe, Managing Director of Mideast Travel Worldwide and official GSA of Kuwait Airways in Greece.

The workshop attracted wide media coverage, with representatives from several major Kuwaiti news outlets in attendance, including TimesKuwait, Alqabas, Aljarida, and others.

It is noted that the next Greek Luxury Tourism Workshop by Tourism Media & Events, dedicated to promoting Greece’s luxury tourism offerings, is scheduled to take place in Cairo on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, at the InterContinental Cairo Semiramis.

High expectations for an increase of Danish tourists to Greece in 2024

High expectations for the 2024 tourism season from the Danish market toward Greece were recorded by the Greek Tourism Workshop in Copenhagen, whose proceedings concluded on the afternoon of Thursday, March 21, 2024.The leading promotional event for Greek tourism and gastronomy, organized by Tourism Media & Events, was held under the auspices of the Ministry of Tourism, the Ministry of Rural Development and Food, and the Embassy of Greece in Copenhagen.

The event, which took place at the Scandic Falkoner Hotel, was attended by prominent Greek tourism enterprises and destinations, as well as key Danish travel agencies and tour operators.

The workshop was honored by the presence of Mr. Takis Papafillippopoulos, Secretary to the Ambassador of Greece in Copenhagen, who addressed the audience with a welcoming speech.

The Region of Crete was the Featured Region of the event, while among the participants were also the Region of Attica, the Region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, the Region of Central Macedonia, the Municipality of Rethymno, the Municipality of Volos, and others.

The Official Airline Sponsor of the event was Aegean Airlines.

Following the B2B meetings, presentations were held by the Deputy Regional Governor of Tourism and Digital Governance of the Region of Crete, Dr. Kyriakos Kotsoglou, by the Head of the Tourism Promotion Department of the Region of Attica, Ms. Maria Pantelous, by Ms. Marianna Skoularika from the Tourism Office of the Regional Unit of Kilkis (Region of Central Macedonia), by Ms. Patty Konstantinidou, member of the Tourism Promotion Team of the Region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, and by the Head of the Tourism Department of the Municipality of Volos, Mr. Georgios Papamakarios.

It is noted that the next events of Tourism Media & Events focused on promoting Greek luxury tourism are the Greek Luxury Tourism Workshops in Kuwait, on April 16, 2024, and in Cairo, on April 23, 2024.

They will be followed by the Greek Tourism Workshops in Tokyo on May 28, 2024, in Utrecht on October 24, 2024, in New York (USA) on November 19, 2024, in Chicago (USA) on November 21, 2024, and in Poland on December 10, 2024.

 

 

New initiative by P.O.T.A.P. with a three-day press tour of leading media in Pieria

New initiative by P.O.T.A.P. with a three-day press tour of leading media in Pieria

Believing that the power of journalism is an important lever for promoting and highlighting the comparative advantages of Pieria, the Pierian Organization for Tourism Development and Promotion (P.O.T.A.P.) invited, hosted, guided, and informed representatives of the country’s leading nationwide media outlets.

On March 8–9–10, 2024, the Organization’s initiative was carried out with a series of on-site visits by journalists to areas and institutional bodies of Pieria that reflect not only the tourism identity but also the broader character of the region.

Based in a hotel unit in Leptokarya, where the first meeting took place, the press representatives were welcomed and briefed on the operational program of the three-day tour by their hosts. The first visit took place on the afternoon of Friday, March 8, 2024, in Litochoro.

At the reception were His Eminence Metropolitan Georgios of Kitros, Katerini and Platamon, and the Deputy Mayor of Dion-Olympos, Sofia Zourzoura.

At the foothills of the mythical Mount Olympus, the tour and briefing began in the Council Chamber of the Municipality of Dion-Olympos and at the Maritime Museum with its great naval tradition, with the evening concluding with a local wine tasting—an experience dedicated to the senses.

The Saturday, March 9, 2024 program included visits to areas in northern Pieria, within the Municipality of Pydna-Kolindros, guided and accompanied by Deputy Mayor Maria Navrozidou. The day began at the archaeological site of Pydna, from where the Apostle Paul set sail on his second missionary journey.

This was followed by visits and tours of the Museum Repository of Makrygialos, with remarkable finds from the cities of Pydna and Methoni dating from the Iron Age to the Hellenistic period, and to a winery and vineyards in Kitros.

Next came an interesting stop in Aiginio, the “city of storks,” for a presentation on the “Stories of the Storks” by the Association of Professionals of Aiginio, followed by a visit to Kolindros to explore the local Folklore Museum, the Holy Monastery of Saint Athanasios, and the churches of Saint Paraskevi and Saint George.

On the third and final day, Sunday, March 10, 2024, the media delegation visited, in the morning, the headquarters of the Olympus Festival Organization, where they were informed about this nationally renowned cultural institution by its president, Mr. Grigoris Papachristos, the Deputy Regional Governor of Pieria, Ms. Sofia Mavridou, and the Deputy Mayor of Katerini, Ms. Elina Diamantopoulou.

The “journalistic tour” of Pieria concluded with visits to Elatochori and its Ski Center in the Pieria mountains, and to the traditional settlement of Palaios Panteleimonas, known as the “balcony” of Olympus, with its remarkable examples of traditional architecture.

Alongside discovering the natural, historical, and archaeological wealth of Pieria, the hosted journalists also met, were briefed, and exchanged views not only with Deputy Regional Governor of Pieria, Sofia Mavridou—who promotes and supports such initiatives—but also with the president of P.O.T.A.P., Giorgos Karalis, members of the Organization’s administration, as well as local government officials and other institutional and productive bodies of the region.

In conclusion, the Pierian Organization for Tourism Development and Promotion (P.O.T.A.P.), guided by extroversion and foresight, put into practice the modern philosophy required today in the field of information and promotion.

The three-day event, titled “Fam Trip” (familiarization trip for journalists), as a means of promoting tourist destinations, will undoubtedly contribute to the further enhancement of Pieria’s tourism, along with the respective economic and other benefits.

The Deputy Regional Governor of Pieria, Ms. Sofia Mavridou, and the President of P.O.T.A.P., Mr. Giorgos Karalis, expressed their satisfaction and gratitude to the press delegation, stating that similar initiatives will continue both within Greece and internationally.

Ancient Port of Lechaion
Ancient Port of Lechaion
Thermal Springs of Oraia Eleni
Kalamia Beach
“Pietris” Bakery

A unique journey to the Municipality of Argos-Mycenae

A unique journey to the Municipality of Argos-Mycenae

A new destination has emerged in recent years in the Peloponnese. It is the Municipality of Argos-Mycenae, which stands as a living museum of both ancient and modern history of the country.

Today Argos blends the old with the new, with large pedestrianized areas, spacious squares, restaurants, and café-bars that stand out. Less than an hour and a half from Athens, it can easily be visited as a day trip.

With Argos as a starting point, one can explore the coastal area from Nea Kios to Kiveri, with their unique fish taverns as well as hidden gastronomic spots serving delicious traditional dishes, such as the tavern Spilia.

But the wider area, beyond the unique archaeological site of Mycenae, also holds a breathtaking monument long forgotten by history that captivates visitors. This is the Pyramid of Elliniko, with its unique magnetic field which, according to the University of Edinburgh, predates the pyramids of Egypt.

Argos, the oldest continuously inhabited city in Europe and in Greece, despite the destructions it has suffered at times from raiders and conquerors, was always rebuilt in the same location. This is confirmed even today by archaeological excavations on construction sites, which continue to reveal traces of life from earlier times.

As the oldest city of Greece, it participates in the Network of the Oldest Cities of Europe and constitutes the largest open-air museum in the country, with numerous and unique finds representing every historical period of the Greeks. It offers visitors a wealth of monuments from prehistoric and historical times, museums, historic churches and rich ecclesiastical relics, the old town, distinctive architectural features, neoclassical buildings, and more.

It should be noted that the Municipality of Argos-Mycenae was established in 2010 under the “Kallikratis” Program. It was created from the merger of six pre-existing municipalities and two communities, which functioned from 01-01-1999 until 31-12-2010, having been established in 1997 under the “Kapodistrias” Plan. These were the Municipality of Argos, the Municipality of Mycenaeans, the Municipality of Koutsopodi, the Municipality of Lerna, the Municipality of Lyrkeia, the Municipality of Nea Kios, the Community of Alea, and the Community of Achladokampos, which were subsequently transformed into Municipal Units. The seat of the expanded Municipality of Argos-Mycenae was designated as Argos, with Mycenae as its historical seat. The boundaries of the Municipality essentially correspond to the boundaries of the former Province of Argos.

Visit to the Byzantine Museum of the city
The Byzantine Museum of Argolis is housed in the western and southwestern wings of the Kapodistrias Barracks, which dominate the center of Argos.

The Barracks complex, a listed historic building, is located in a central part of the city and in close proximity to the neoclassical building of the Municipal Market and the Archaeological Museum of Argos.

Tour of the Ancient Theater/Ancient Agora
On the southeastern slopes of Larisa Hill, the Theater was founded during the Hellenistic period (300–250 BC). With a capacity of about 20,000 spectators, it is one of the largest ancient theaters in Greece. Today its capacity does not exceed 4,000 seats. Throughout its long history, it hosted the musical and dramatic contests of the Nemean Games, as well as competitions in honor of Hera. During Roman times, contests in honor of the emperor are also believed to have been established.

 

Larisa Castle
The history of fortifications on Larisa Hill begins in prehistoric times and extends up to the period of the Greek Revolution of 1821. Following the city of Argos through its long history, from the prehistoric era onward, it always served as a fortified observatory and the last line of defense for the city.

Kefalari
Kefalari is a beautiful village. Its houses are spread over a wide area, built among tall trees and orchards. To the west of the village rises Mount Chaon. The name is most likely derived from the verb “chaino” (to gape), because on the southern slopes of the mountain there is a cave approximately 110 meters deep. This cave was used as a refuge and dwelling by people of the prehistoric period, as shown by traces and findings uncovered by German speleologists in 1970. The cave was also used as a safe shelter during the bombings of April 1941.

Pyramid of Elliniko
The Pyramid of Elliniko (previously known as the Pyramid of Kefalari) is a rare structure which, with its imposing and dynamic form, impresses visitors. It is located on the edge of the village of Elliniko in Argolis, about two kilometers from Kefalari. According to a statement by the academic P. Theocharis, the monument was built in 2720 BC. The dating was placed in the Early Helladic III period using the scientific method of thermoluminescence.

The traveler Pausanias mentions that the monument was a polyandrium (a communal tomb of warriors) of the Kenchreans. Later scholars speculate that it was a funerary monument, or a watchtower, or even an ancient observatory, because along with another pyramid that once stood nearby, it was oriented toward the constellation Sirius. The location of the monument is of strategic importance, as it controlled the land route from Argos to ancient Hysiae and Tegea, as well as the entrance to the Argolic Gulf, and is visible to the naked eye from the ancient cities of Nafplio and Tiryns. For this reason, many believe that the Danaans used the monument as a watchtower, to observe, anticipate, and confront possible enemy attacks (fryktos = burning torch). A comparison of the monument with the ancient walls on Larisa Hill in Argos, the acropolis of Achladokampos (ancient Hysiae), or the Kritirion of ancient Argos (the oldest court in the world) reveals a close relationship among them in terms of craftsmanship and construction date.

Visit to the Archaeological Site of Mycenae
The need for a new archaeological museum to store and display the findings of over a century of excavations at Mycenae became urgent in the early 1980s, when Georgios E. Mylonas, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, chose the site in the northern area of the Acropolis, overcoming objections from local representatives who wished the museum to be built in the nearby settlement.

Tour of the Museum of Mycenae
The Archaeological Museum of Mycenae is located north of the Acropolis of Mycenae, within the accessible archaeological site of the same name. Its exhibits are representative samples of the life and funerary beliefs of the Mycenaeans, as well as of the achievements of Mycenaean civilization, which decisively influenced the creation of Greek civilization in historical times.