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From humble origins Mykonos has built itself up to be the pineacle of Aegean cosmopitanism…

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Sourec: travel.gr

Hospitality enterprises in Greece posted a 62.6 percent increase in their turnover last year, totaling more than 8.573 billion euros, significantly up from 5.272 billion euros in 2021, the Hellenic Statistical Authority announced on Friday.

Specific businesses on the Ionian Island of Cephalonia posted the biggest increase in turnover, at 108 percent, while businesses in the Lasithi prefecture of Crete posted the lowest increase (28.6 percent).

Restaurants and various types of eateries recorded a 41.5-percent increase in turnover last year, totaling 7.882 billion euros, up from 5.571 billion euros in 2021. The Ionian Island of Zakynthos posted the biggest percentage increase (81.4 percent), while ones in the Achaia prefecture of western Greece the lowest hike (28.3 percent).

Both sectors’ accumulated turnover exceeded 16.45 billion euros in 2022, up by 51.8 percent from the previous year.

Source: in.gr

The rise in the cost of living was prevalent across the globe in 2022. Therefore, the results of the annual survey of the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) which compares the cost of living in different cities around the world (Worldwide Cost of Living), are unsurprising.

The general conclusion of the research is that the average increase in the cost of living for 2022, compared to the previous year, is 8.1%.

“The war in Ukraine, Western sanctions against Russia, and China’s zero-Covid policies have created problems in the supply chain, which combined with rising interest rates and changes in currency rates have led to a rise in the cost of living across the world,” says the head of research at the EIU, Upasana Dutt, in a statement after the announcement of the results.

She adds that “this influence is clear, as the average price rise in the 172 cities we studied in our research is the largest in the 20 years we have had digital data. The increase in fuel has been significant (as it was last year) but also food, utilities, and other household goods are becoming more and more expensive for city dwellers.”

In a year with a high cost of living, which are the most expensive cities to live in?

The 10 most expensive cities in the world for the Economist Intelligence Unit:

1- New York and Singapore

3- Tel Aviv

4- Hong Kong and Los Angeles

6- Zurich

7- Geneva

8- San Francisco

9- Paris

10- Copenhagen

Source: en.protothema.gr

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis had a private meeting and working dinner with the US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, on Monday at the Maximos Mansion.
During the talks, according to sources, a comprehensive overview of Greek-American relations was made. Their excellent level was confirmed in view of the start of the 4th round of the Greece-US strategic dialogue, on Tuesday, and their further deepening was agreed.
The prime minister and Blinken exchanged views on international, European and regional issues, with a focus on developments in Ukraine. The US Secretary of State expressed to the prime minister his appreciation for the unconditional support provided by Greece to Ukraine from the very beginning and underlined the role of Greece as a pillar of stability and security in the wider region.
The situation in the Eastern Mediterranean and the devastating earthquakes in Turkey were also discussed. Blinken thanked the prime minister for the immediate assistance provided by Greece to Turkey at this difficult time.
Also, Mitsotakis and Blinken agreed on the importance of security and stability in the Eastern Mediterranean at a critical geopolitical juncture. The prime minister underlined that the stable position of Greece and the guiding principle of its policy was and remains the peaceful resolution of disputes and good neighborly relations based on international law. 

Source: amna.gr

Growth in Greece is forecast to remain above the eurozone and EU average in 2022, 2023, and 2024, according to the European Commission’s winter economic forecasts released today.

Specifically, for Greece, the Commission forecasts growth of 5.5% in 2022, 1.2% in 2023, and 2.2% in 2024. For the Eurozone, the Commission forecasts growth of 3.5% in 2022, 0.9% in 2023, and 1.5% in 2024 compared to EU growth of 3.5% in 2022, 0.8% in 2023, and 1.6% in 2024.

The Commission’s forecasts for the growth of the Greek economy are revised slightly downwards for 2022 compared to those of November (6% was the forecast for 2022) and revised slightly upwards for 2023 and 2024 ( 1% and 2% were the forecast respectively).

Regarding inflation, the Commission estimates that in Greece it was 9.3% in 2022 and predicts that it will decrease to 4.5% in 2023 and 2.4% in 2024. For the Eurozone, the Commission estimates that inflation stood at 8.4% in 2022 and is forecast to fall to 5.6% in 2023 and 2.5% in 2024. In the EU inflation stood at 9.2% in 2022 and is forecast to fall to 6 .4% in 2023 and to 2.8% in 2024.

“The Greek economy registered stable growth in the first half of 2022, but rising inflation affected growth in the second half of the year,” the Commission emphasises in its report on Greece. However, it notes that the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) has provided significant support to the economy, and government measures have reduced the impact of energy prices on business input costs and real household disposable income. “Overall, real GDP growth is expected to reach 5.5% in 2022,” the Commission predicts.

Source: en.protothema.gr

The Ministry of Tourism will immediately invite interest for the execution of infrastructure projects related to tourism and the sustainability of key destinations within the next three to four weeks, Minister Vassilis Kikilias says in an interview with Kathimerini.

They concern projects in ports and marinas, jetties and moorings, but also the infrastructure at ski resorts, on mountain trails, waste management, sewage and parking lots.

This is a significant part of the 39 projects selected as vital to relieve tourism-burdened destinations such as Athens and Santorini, but also other areas whose development has rendered the existing infrastructure obsolete.

He also expresses moderate optimism that 2023 will evolve into a record year for tourism, which will significantly surpass the performance of 2019 – a performance matched last year, despite the fact that the first months of 2022 were affected by the pandemic and the war in Ukraine.

On the crucial question of his long-term strategy for tourism, Kikilias answers clearly: “I want more tourists, but I also want visitors with greater added value for the economy all year round and across the country’s 13 regions.”

Source: ekathimerini.com

It is with great pleasure that we present the first of our Platinum Sponsors for the 2023 MYBA Charter Show, Begüm Yachting. Begüm Yachting will be sponsoring the “Captains’ Safety Briefing & Welcome Dinner”, with both events scheduled to be held on Sunday April 23 within the world-class facilities of Marina Port Vell. Begüm Yachting is the largest superyacht and charter agent located all along the Turkish Coast. With 25 years of experience under their belt, they provide  the highest level of professional yacht agency & charter services. They also own a shipyard, provision supply and transfer companies, yacht charter & brokerage department, as well as various luxury sea limousines and sea planes for tour and transfer organisations. To learn more about the very wide range of services that they can offer, please visit begumyachting.com   We are delighted to welcome back Begüm Yachting as a sponsor and look forward to a close and fruitful collaboration. 

With kind regards, Judith Estrella – Chair of the MYBA Charter Show PanelMYBA The Worldwide Yachting Association

MCS WEBSITE: mybashow.com
PUBLIC WEBSITE: myba-association.com E-CONTRACTS: myba-econtract.com/en/subscribe.cfm

A Warm Welcome To Begum Yachting

Source: azimouthio-yachting-info.com

The 3rd Digital Modern Shipping Conference, titled “Maritime 4.0: The Future of Shipping is Digital,” takes place online Wednesday from 10 a.m.

For more, log on to digitalshipping.gr.

Source: ekathimerini.com

The Greek economy is expected to grow by 1.2% this year and by an improved 2.2% in 2024 after a leap of 5.5% in 2022, the European Commission estimates.

“Greece’s economy recorded solid growth in the first half of 2022, but rising inflation took its toll on growth in the second half of the year,” the Commission said in its Winter 2023 Economic Forecast, published on Monday.

Inflation is also seen easing from 9.3% in 2022 to 4.5% this year and 2.4% in 2024, the report said, noting that “government measures cushioned the impact of energy prices on businesses’ input costs and households’ real disposable incomes.”

However, it said, “food price inflation is expected to prove more persistent, given the lagged pass-through of high energy costs on food production.”

The Recovery and Resilience Plan (RRP), meanwhile, “is projected to remain the main driver of investment growth, partly offsetting weakening corporate investment due to the tightening of financing conditions,” while “with the external environment slowly improving as of the second half of 2023, exports are set to pick up pace in 2024.” 

Receipts from international tourism are also forecast to increase in 2023 and 2024, according to the Commission, though there are downside risks “related to the potential impact of geopolitical tensions.”

Source: ekathimerini.com

Greece emerged as the seventh most sought-after country for family vacations in 2023, according to a study published by the Family Vacation Guide, which calculated online searches for family vacations in 2021 and 2022 as well as corresponding posts on Instagram.

Greece attracted 1,887 monthly searches on the internet in 2021 and 5,932 in 2022, while posts about the country on Instagram with a hashtag, as a family vacation destination, amounted to 92.

Spain is set to be the top country for family vacations in 2023, having received a fantastic Family Vacation Popularity Score of 9.03! Spain is one of the most sought-after countries for family vacations, with an average of 5,730 searches each month in 2022. 

RELATED TOPICS: Greece, Greek tourism news, Tourism in Greece, Greek islands, Hotels in Greece, Travel to Greece, Greek destinations, Greek travel market, Greek tourism statistics, Greek tourism report

Photo Source: pixabay.com

Source: tornosnews.gr

A 330-square-foot production facility is coming to the waterfront in Brooklyn’s Red Hook neighborhood, and it’s bringing with it a gorgeous, sprawling park, according to a press release.

Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG) are the ones behind the project, and are the same ones designing Wildflower Studios, the seven-story movie studio coming to Astoria.

Envisioned as a “vertical village,” the project is an expansion of Samson Stages’ movie and TV operations.

The structure consists of eight stages stacked on top of each other with green terraces spaced throughout. It will also feature an intimate, unique space for the public and building’s users on the waterfront.

In addition, the $400 million project will also include a cafe and public park, and will overall create hundreds of jobs as well as re-invent the area.

“This project is truly transformational, and I am excited to…begin construction on the brand new soundstages and studios. The new addition will create jobs, will give the neighborhood a new waterfront park, and will continue to make New York the center of TV and film production,” said Sam Geiger, Co-Founder and CEO of Samson Stages.

The development will be located at 744 Clinton Street, the current site of Sunshine Lighting.

Source: secretnyc.co

Greece supports the idea of organizing a donor conference in Brussels to collect more aid for the victims of the devastating earthquakes that struck Turkey and Syria, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said on Thursday.

“Let me repeat that Greece will stand by the two peoples, as it has already done by providing immediate assistance to locate survivors in the ruins, but also by providing humanitarian aid, in order to support the hundreds of thousands, possibly millions, of people who will be left homeless over the next period,” he said arriving at the European Council meeting in Brussels.

“We will also be at the forefront [of efforts] for a donor conference here in Brussels, so that additional financial resources can be found to help rebuild the affected areas,” he added.

Mitsotakis also said the EUCO meeting would welcome Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and provide once again the opportunity to reiterate “our unequivocal support for Ukraine’s struggle to defend its territorial integrity.”

“The support of the EU, the entire European family, for this effort is a given, to enable the Ukrainian people and the Ukrainian government to negotiate a fair peace with the Russian invader, but on terms that [the Ukrainian government] itself sets,” he said.

Source: ekathimerini.com

Statement by the Prime Minister upon his arrival at the ΕΘ Summit.

Greece will stand by Turkey and Syria was the message sent by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis when he attended the European Council in Brussels, which is taking place today and tomorrow.

The prime minister again expressed his grief on behalf of the entire Greek people for the tragic losses, and reiterated that Greece will stand by the two peoples.

Kyriakos Mitsotakis focused particularly on the issue of illegal immigration, stressing that there are strong increasing trends.

As Greece has said, it will continue to fight so the EU does more to protect its external borders. Kyriakos Mitsotakis also said that Athens claims additional European resources in order to have all the means at its disposal, while he also emphasized the importance of obstacles such as the fence on the Evros border.

The prime minister called on the EU to speed up return policies for those without asylum to return to their countries of origin.

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Referring to Ukraine, he emphasized that at today’s Summit the leaders will welcome Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and express their full support to Kyiv. “The support of the European family must be taken for granted,” he stressed and went on to say that Ukraine must be able to negotiate a just peace with the Russian aggressor on the terms it will set.

Source: in.gr

Mykonos Real Estate solutions for rentals and sales. Explore our curated portfolio of the most luxurious villas in the cosmopolitan island! Rent a luxury villa in Mykonos for vacations or find an elegant house for sale. Detailed descriptions and information about the properties and their amenities and distances from popular locations and attractions on the island. Find your ideal location with a cycladic white and blue villa offering view to the aegean sea or a house close to Mykonos Town.

We assure you that, no matter what you wish for, you will find it here. For example, are you looking for a villa close to the beach? Dreaming of taking a dip in your own private infinity pool? Seeking for a secluded hideout to spend your vacation in absolute privacy? Just choose one of the categories, to assist you with your request.
If you still need help, however, do not hesitate to contact us.

We take great pride in our many years of experience on the island of Mykonos and we will be more than happy to find you the perfect stay. Therefore, just let us know what you are looking for and we will do our best to satisfy your wishes with a villa in Mykonos tailored to your specific needs and budget. Mykonos island is waiting for you! – “Mykonos Villas Florios“

Watch video here.

This tiny 5 km long island was once considered the most sacred place in the known world and though uninhabited today, it is easy to imagine the ancient societies that thrived here. There are ruins of temples, houses, an amphitheatre, elaborate mosaics, and, of course, the venerated Avenue of the Lions. Climb the dusty, windswept path to the top of Mount Kynthos and admire the views of the surrounding islands that circle Delos, the true heart of the Cyclades.

The Agora of the Competaliasts

Built around 150 BC, the Competaliasts were members of Roman guilds, mostly freemen and slaves from Sicily who worked for Italian merchants. Right next to the harbour, the bases of many monuments dedicated to Hermes can be found in the main market of the ancient city. There is a distinctive main square with shops and an open-air market.

The ancient theatre of Delos/ Photo: Shutterstock

Ancient Theatre

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Once housing 5,500 people, the construction of the Ancient Theatre began in 314 BC and was completed some 60 years later. The 26 rows of seats are well preserved, and the chosen location of the theatre lay within the elegant residential quarter, home to Roman bankers and Egyptian and Phoenician traders. The sophistication of the houses here paint a lively picture of domestic life in Hellenistic Greece. Rooms were grouped around a central courtyard with marvellous mosaic floors of panthers, snakes, birds and Dionysos visible. Precious rainwater was channelled into cisterns below and the well paved main street hosts the impressive House of Cleopatra, the House of Masks, the House of the Dolphins, and the striking House of the Trident.

Avenue of the Lions/Photo: Shutterstock

Avenue of the Lions

One of the most evocative and distinctive sights on Delos, the 50 metre long Avenue of the Lions is home to five lions, faithful guardians of the Sacred Lake. Once home to at least nine and maybe up to sixteen lions, the avenue was erected and dedicated to Apollo by the people of Naxos around 600 BC. The lions with open mouths are snarling and growling, guarding the sanctuaries and inspiring fear and reverence in the worshippers.

Gymnasium

A square courtyard houses the gymnasium where teenagers scratched their names and those of their beloved into the soft rock. Next door is the stadium built in 274 BC where the Delian games where enacted every four years. East of the stadium and by the sea is the remains of a synagogue built by Phoenician Jews in the 2nd century BC.

Mount Kynthos/Photo: Bernard Gagnon/Wikipedia Creative Commons

Mount Kynthos

A rough path leads up from the base of Mount Kynthos, the highest point on the island, climbing 113 m to the top. On the slopes are the remains of shrines including temples dedicated to Egyptian gods and the Sanctuary of the Syrian gods built in 100 BC. The summit is completely unshaded and usually buffeted by the wind but the reward for the climb is awe inspiring views of Mykonos, Naxos, Paros, Syros and neighbouring islets. Take in the horizons and remember; this was the very centre of the ancient world.

The Sacred Lake

Visitors to ancient Delos landed not in the Sacred Harbour, yet to be constructed, but in the bay of Skardana instead. The route of entry first passed by the Sacred Lake with swans and palm trees and on under the watchful gaze of the lions to the Temple of Leto, and then further to the Sanctuaries of Artemis and Apollo. A stone wall marks the periphery of the now vanished lake, fed by the river Inopos until 1925 when the stagnant waters were drained after an outbreak of malaria. A lone palm stands in the middle of the lake, a poignant reminder of the legend of Leto.

Parts of the sanctuary of Apollo/ Photo: Shutterstock

The Sanctuary of Apollo

Three separate temples were built here, flanked by altars, statues and monuments. The Great Temple of Apollo was began in 476 BC with 6 columns on each short side and 13 on the longer. Inside was a statue of Apollo, while adjacent are the Oikos of the Naxians, the first superstructure in the world made of marble, and a massive pediment once housed the Colossus of the Naxians, a 9 m tall dedication to the god sadly broken into many pieces with the left hand in the Delos Archaeological Museum and a part of a foot in the British Museum.

The iconic mosaic in the House of Dionysus/ Photo: Shutterstock

The Sanctuary of Dionysos

Erected around 300 BC by Karystos, a winner of a theatrical competition, are several monuments decorated with phalluses, emblematic of the orgiastic festivities that took place on the island.

The Rapture of Orithyia by Boreas/ Photo: Shutterstock

Marble statue of Artemis/Photo: Wikipedia Creative Commons

The Archaeological Museum of Delos

One of the most important museums in Greece, it presents findings of over a century of excavations by the French School of Archaeology. The most important sculptures cover a period from Archaic to Roman times and the Delos mosaics are the most significant discoveries of their kind in Greece from the 2nd-early 1st century BC. Nine rooms contain ancient pottery collections, figurines and astonishing frescoes and mosaics. The original lions are found here, while reproductions guard the avenue today. Important korous are displayed alongside an arresting statue of Boreas kidnapping Oreithya.

Temporarily closed there are plans to build a state of the art museum that the site deserves. Opening hours of the archaeological site: 08:30-15:00. It is forbidden to spend the night on Delos. (Tel. Archaeological museum: 22890 22259)

Boats run from the old port of Mykonos four times a day in summer and take half an hour. Expect to pay around 22€ for the boat and 12€ to enter the island site. Visitors to Delos are given a map outlining three self guided tours that take between ninety minutes and five hours. Guided tours are also available from 60€, and they can provide valuable insight into the fascinating history of Delos. There are no facilities on Delos so take refreshments, water and sunscreen. (Tel.: 22890 28603, www.delostours.gr)

https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m16!1m12!1m3!1d23935.177663154187!2d25.264194265165884!3d37.394449233780975!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!2m1!1sdelos%20ruins!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sgr!4v1675672217189!5m2!1sen!2sgr

Source: travel.gr

Greece’s booming tourism is reaching visitors from around the world, so much so that it’s a top 10 destination for long-haul travelers whose flights are more than six hours long.

That was found in the Long-Haul Travel Barometer January-April 2023 released this week by the European Travel Commission (ETC) in collaboration with Eurail BV.

They included travelers from Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, the United States, and Japan, those willing to take flights that with connections could take up to almost 24 hours to reach Greece and visit.

The study, which looks at travel intention in six overseas markets in the first four months, showed Greece ranks 4th most popular holiday destination for Canadian travelers, 5th for Australians, 6th for Japanese tourists, 7th for American and Brazilian travelers, and 8th for Chinese holidaymakers.

The desire for overseas travel in 2023 increased in major travel markets compared to 2022, the study found, with more than 60 percent of potential travelers in Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, and the US planning to travel overseas.

Source: tornosnews.gr

Let’s be honest…Valentine’s Day is a lot of pressure! Whether you’re looking for something to do for the big day, digging into a romanic restaurant list to find the perfect vibe, or even taking yourself on a solo date, there’s so many ways to celebrate the 14th here in NYC. Love is truly in air!

With any holiday here in the city, means special food deals! Lots of NYC restaurants are offering unique prix-fixe menus, V-Day inspired cocktails, and a whole lot more. If you’re still in search of Valentine’s Day dinner ideas, we have some reservation recommendations for you right here!

1. The Ivy Room, Midtown

The Ivy Room, which is the Royalton Rooftop’s newly opened piano bar is offering both live piano music and table side martinis this Valentine’s Day! For $75, guests are welcome to indulge in a 3-course pre-fixe menu with standout items including Pan Roasted Quail, Mushroom Risotto, Dry Aged NY Strip, Chocolate Mousse Tart and more. Plus, in addition to the specialty menu, The Ivy Room is offering couples a taste of their new cocktail cart, perfect to sip along to while they listen to live pianist, Alejandra Williams-Maneri. Make reservations here.

Where: 420 Park Ave S

2. Baar Baar, East Village

This East Village spot will be serving a 3-course prix-fixe menu for $70 per person (which includes surprise bites as well as sides). There will also be an optional wine pairing available for $40 per person, live music entertainment, and two speciality cocktails for Valentine’s Day priced at $19 a piece. They’re even hosting two Matchmaking Mixers events in February to meet new people and enjoy food and cocktails! Follow their Instagram for more info.

Where: 13 E 1st St

3. Benoit, Midtown

This French bistro (complete with their stunning lush red booths) are serving a 5 course prix-fixe menu for lovers and friends for $130 per person. In addition to the tasting menu, you’re able to pair your meal with two optional tiers of wine pairing experiences, $110 or $150 per person. Check out the full menu here.

Where: 60 W 55th St

4. l’abeille, Tribeca

For $250 per person, you can enjoy a 7 course tasting menu at this Michelin-starred French restaurant with Japanese influence in Tribeca. Its cozy and chic dining room is not only romantic, but their Valentine’s Day special is incredible. Food options include seasonal fare like roasted Spanish mackerel with smoked potato and caramelized onion and American wagyu beef tenderloin with foie gras and black truffle, while their fondant au chocolat cake waits for dessert. Plus, their curated wine list is one of the best around. Make your reservation here.

Where: 412 Greenwich St

5. Musket Room, NoLita

For Valentine’s Day this year, The Musket Room will be featuring a luxurious seasonal 7-course tasting menu from Executive Chef Mary Attea. Along with decadent supplements like Foie Gras Terrine with Prunes, Armagnac, Pistachio and a Blanket of Black Truffle; Kristal Caviar Service with Creme Fraiche, Egg Confit and Japanese Milk Bread; and Oysters on the half-shell with Pearls of Trout Roe & Yuzu, they’ll also have a classic Chocolate Soufflé for 2 served with Grand Marnier Ice Cream for dessert.

It’s $125 per person for the dinner, and they’ll also have hand-crafted aphrodisiac bonbon boxes available for purchase too! Make your reservation here.

Where: 265 Elizabeth St

6. Zaytinya, NoMad

Available throughout Valentine’s Day weekend (2/10 – 2/14), stop at Zaytinya for a five course, $125 per person meal, consisting of shareable mezze culminating with a decadent Chocolate Rose, a molten Valrhona chocolate cake served with rose ice cream and spiced berry purée. There’s an optional wine pairing for an additional $45 as well.

Plus, they have other specials like Caviar Service “José’s Way” (potato chips, whipped crème fraîche, one ounce of Kaviari Ossetra) and a Hibiscus Vermouth (specialty cocktail with Greek vermouth infused with hibiscus blossoms served with edible flower) if you don’t want the full meal. Make a reservation here.

Where: 1185 Broadway

7. Il Monello, Midtown East

Get ready to slurp down homemade pasta reminiscent of “Lady and the Tramp,” this Valentine’s Day! Whether you’re with a significant other or celebrating Galentine’s Day with your besties, their long spaghetti will be served, as well as their heart shaped ravioli, and festive raspberry martinis! Full menu and make your reservations here.

Where: 337 E 49th St

8. Tavern on the Green, Central Park

Choose between a 5 course prix-fixe menu ($175 per person) or a 3 course prix-fixe menu ($150 per person) at Tavern on the Green this Valentine’s Day! It includes all sorts of seafood, salad, cheese, and desserts that will make you feel full and happy! They also have a fantastic wine list that you can pair with your romantic meal. Check out the full menu here.

Where: 67th Street & Central Park West

9. Soho Diner, SoHo

Grab your sweetheart and check out Soho Diner, where a special dinner for two is the menu highlight. It includes Grilled Lobster, chimichurri drawn butter, lime aioli, french fries & watercress and a Sweetheart’s Sundae with strawberry patch ice cream, dark hot chocolate, overwhipped cream, dehydrated strawberry chips & crunchy pistachio for dessert! This menu is available all Valentine’s Day weekend! (2/10 – 2/14). Full menu and reservations here.

Where: 320 W Broadway

10. Holiday Bar, West Village

For Valentine’s Day, This trendy new restaurant will be offering a delicious special menu for Valentine’s Day, featuring a Chilled Shellfish Platter, including Green Lip Mussels in Escabeche, Littleneck Clams with Jeow and Oysters with Ponzu, Grilled Live Scallops in the shell with its roe and dressed with Cafe de Paris sauce, and Dry Aged Grimaud Farms Duck for two. Make your reservation here.

Where: 10 Downing St

11. CASA TuLuM, Seaport

How about a couples retreat to Tulum? This recently opened spot in Seaport is serving a five-course tasting menu priced at $150 per person. Menu highlights include a complimentary glass of champagne, Happiness is Guac & Chips, CASA TuLuM is Calling – Let’s Go (angel hair spaghetti, salsa verde, Chipilo cream fresh, and cotija cheese), This Place is a Real Beach (choice of Robalo Rosado, wild sea bass, pink mole pine nuts, and mezcal, or Proteina, grilled ribeye with malbec-chili ancho reduction, and asparagus), and a whole lot more.

If you’re looking for some delicious Mexican/seafood crossover, check this spot out. Menu and reservations here.

Where: 229 Front St

12. Archer & Goat, Harlem

A Harlem gem, Archer & Goat is serving up the flavors of their culinary heritages of Latin America and South Asia for Valentine’s Day. They will be serving their normal menu as always, but they will be introducing a special cocktail, My Darling Betty, combining vodka, passion fruit, creme de cacao, and lime with a dark chocolate rim, dusting of chocolate shavings and a strawberry heart. We suggest grabbing a bite here Valentine’s Day weekend and sticking around for the cocktails.

Where: 187 Malcolm X Blvd

Source: secretnyc.co

M-One villa in #Mykonos features an open plan outdoor area that’s great for dining al-fresco or simply lounging around!

#MVillashttps://mykonian.villas/villa-one/

Who said island holidays should only be spent on the beach? Here we present the best places to visit for excellent shopping or simply hours of discovering beautifully conceptualized and artfully crafted, unique design items to beautify your wardrobe or home.

Clothes, Footwear & Accessories

Luisa at Nammos

The store’s discerning buyers ensure a diverse selection of swimwear to keep up with the daily fashion competition among guests over lunch and on Psarou beach. High-end brands such as Céline, Saint Laurent, Isabel Marant, and Vetements all share space on the shelves.
Address: Psarou, Mykonos
Website: luisaworld.com

Photo: Luisa at Nammos/Facebook

Photo: Luisa at Nammos/Facebook

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Delicate jewelry by Yannis Sergakis, swimwear from Maa Boo, brightly tasseled box bags from Korean The Volon, and hyper-embellished dresses from Indian designer Pia Pauro along with Spanish block-colored espadrilles from Lika Mimika are some of the top-sellers.
Address: Malamatenias & Enopleon Dynameon, Chora
Website: dewmykonos.com

Amnesia

An abundance of beach baskets, jewelry, and every type of leather sandal that Greece is known for within a cave-like white interior. You’ll find the popular local brand, Isapera, as well as a great variety of Ancient Greek sandals and cool customisation options.
Address: 11 Mavrogeni, Chora
Telephone: +30 22890 22782

Photo: Jardin Mykonos/Facebook

Jardin

The Jardin collection features an array of exclusively Greek products. At the center of the display is a table overflowing with woven bags by Ops, while decorative kaftans and shirts grace the surrounding area. The colour scheme of earthy tones is prominent throughout the merchandise, including crochet and leather sandals, plush scarves, and piles of straw sun hats.
Address: 23 Mitropoleos, Chora
Telephone: +30 22890 27451

Art & Home Décor

Rarity

Tap into the island’s vibrant art scene at this exhibition space, showcasing five solo installations and many interesting works by Greek and international contributing artists. A must-visit for art lovers.
Address: 20–22 Kalogera, Chora
Website: raritygallery.com

Photo: Asteria Mosaic Art/Facebook

Asteria Mosaic Art

With a unique collection of antique and contemporary pieces, you can admire the intricate details of this often-overlooked art form. Want to try it yourself? Sign up for a mosaic-making class and bring home your very own masterpiece.
Address: Ag. Vlassis, Mykonos
Phone: +30 22890 27822
Website: https://art-mosaic.gr/

Photo: FreeShop/Facebook

Photo: FreeShop/Facebook

FreeShop

A world of high-end fashion at this unisex store featuring a mix of stylish finds like must-have Balenciaga pieces, ceramic candles from interior designer Marilena Rizou’s brand Souzie Bougie and chunky Italian jewelry from Maria Calderara.
Address: 48 M Andronikou, Chora
Website: https://freeshop.gr/

Bazaar at Scorpios

Handcrafted beach-inspired items curated by Yucatán-based textile brand Caravana and its founder Jacopo Janniello. Rich textures, from suede hammocks to wicker chairs and clothing from Caravana’s own label, as well as jewelry such as Le Pic’s porcupine quill pendants and VK Lillie’s healing stones.
Address: Paraga, Mykonos
Website: www.scorpiosbazaar.com

Source: travel.gr

Ηotels situated in Athens and the Attica region recorded an average occupancy rate of 69.1% in 2022, up from 54% in 2021, but significantly lower compared with an average rate of 77.4% in 2019, the Hoteliers’ Association of Athens and Attica said in a report on Thursday, according to ANA.

Nevertheless, December figures were encouraging, since the average occupancy rate was 7.9% higher compared with 2019.

The report noted that, according to the European Benchmark, average room prices in Athens were lower compared with the city’s competitors, like Istanbul, with revenue per available room at 83.95 euros on average in 2022, up from 82.20 euros in 2019.

This is despite the fact that costs rose because of a rise in the inflation rate. Revenue per available room grew 63.1% in 2022, compared with 2021.

Source: tornosnews.gr

Anish Kapoor, British-Indian sculptor, most known for Chicago’s “Cloud Gate,” a.k.a. “The Bean,” is bringing the mirrored landmark all the way to NYC…well sort of!

NYC is actually home to Kapoor’s brand new version of the mirrored masterpiece located at 56 Leonard Street in Tribeca. Though the Jenga-like skyscraper was completed in 2017, it still lacked its bean component that was initially commissioned for the building specifically. That is until Tuesday’s official unveiling.

According to an email between Performance Structures Inc. (the fabricator) and the Alexico Group (the developer) that was acquired by Tribeca Citizen back in 2018, the methods to construct a seamless finish to the sculpture had never been used before, not even on Chicago’s original Cloud Gate. That, on top of the pandemic and shipping stalls is what led to the structure’s five year delay.

“The path to realising the sculpture has not been easy…Designs for the work were first released in 2008, but fabrication was delayed due to challenges in finding a cost-effective way to join the metal sections of the work while ensuring a flawless finish,” reports a previous press release.https://www.instagram.com/reel/CoGXOTFJVZ1/embed/captioned/?cr=1&v=14&wp=540&rd=https%3A%2F%2Fsecretnyc.co&rp=%2Fanish-kapoor-bean-sculpture-56-leonard-street-nyc%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR0uem6i60f_hvTs92LtobRKtH95C8Aa_GE2ZHDv5RB4vRuS0mibjWEghkU#%7B%22ci%22%3A0%2C%22os%22%3A3040.5%2C%22ls%22%3A2676.7999999523163%2C%22le%22%3A3016.5%7D

Rather than appearing in perfect symmetry like its Chicago counterpart, the Leonard Street sculpture gives the illusion that it’s being squished beneath the weight of the NYC tower.

Furthermore, NYC’s suspension system differs from that of Chicago’s with the installation of tension cables. Therefore, the Leonard Street Bean is able to expand and contract to shifting temperatures and sway in the wind, whereas Chicago’s is unwavering.

The newly completed sculpture is Kapoor’s first permanent public artwork in NYC. It tops out at 19 feet tall, stretching 48 feet long and weighs a whopping 40 tons!

Izak Senbahar, president of Alexico Group, shared in an earlier statement his excitement for the installation, declaring hopes that the structure “will draw arts and culture lovers to its magical seamless surface.”

56 Leonard Street (the corner of Church Street and Leonard Street)

Source: secretnyc.co

Greece was voted as the “Best Tourism Destination for 2023” at the annual Grand Travel Awards (GTA) ceremony held in the Norwegian capital of Oslo, greekcitytimes.com reports.

Running for 25 consecutive years, the GTAs are held by Reis magazine, one of Scandinavia’s leading travel publications, and its website Travel News, which operates in Norway and Sweden, and are considered the most important annual meeting of the local tourism industry.

During the event, Greece was named Best Tourism Destination for 2023 after last year’s distinction of the Greek National Tourism Organization’s (GNTO) Scandinavian branch as Best Foreign Tourist Office.

Pavlos Mourmas, Chief of GNTO’s Scandinavia and Baltic States branch received the award thanking all those who voted for Greece on behalf of GNTO and its Secretary General Dimitris Fragakis.

“What characteristic makes our country attractive to Norwegians? Is it just the sea and the sun, the sandy beaches, the gastronomy, the nature, the culture, and the scattered monuments and archaeological sites that transform the country into an “open-air museum”?”, Mourmas pondered.

He then added that the traditional Greek hospitality was the characteristic behind the country’s popularity and invited all Norwegians to visit the country this year assuring them that “you may come as “guests” but you will return as “friends”.

On the sidelines of the event, Mourmas, along with the Greek Embassy’s Chargé d’Affaires in Oslo Konstantinos Danassis, met with Flyr Airlines Strategic Advisor to the CEO Lasse Sandaker-Nielsen and the company’s Financial Director Brede Huser.

The two parties discussed the extension of the airlines’ route program to Greece, connecting Norway to more Greek destinations.

Source: tornosnews.gr

The Winter Jam is a festival full of winter activities for all ages that takes place in Central Park every year. It’s totally FREE and the perfect event to enjoy NYC during the winter season. And fortunately, this year’s festival is back on after last year’s cancellation.

The epic event is slated to happen this Saturday, February 4, so mark your calendars.

Presented by NYC Parks, Olympic Regional Development Authority, I Love NY, and I Ski NY, a snowfield is blown by Gore Mountain in the morning at Central Park’s Rumsey Playfield, and all day New Yorkers can try their hand at skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and more.

In years past, New Yorkers even got to experience some other fantastically frosty activities such as:

• Sledding
• Curling
• Ice Bowling
• Snowplay
• Dodgeball
• Flag Football
• Puppet Making
• Activities with the New York Public Library
• Bobsled Photo Op
• Snowcat Photo Op

And after all the fun you’ll be having, you can enjoy food and drinks available for purchase onsite to warm you up!

NYC Parks shared on their website that a waiver must be signed for those participating in the following: Sledding, Snowshoeing, Dodgeball, Flag Football, Curling, and Bowling.

Central Park Winter Jam is happening rain or shine so don’t forget to dust off your snow pants and lace up your boots!

Source: secretnyc.co

As one of the most diverse populations in the world, over 200 different languages are spoken in NYC, and though we get passing clips of them each day when walking down the city streets or taking a ride on the subway, imagine being able to hear all these languages together?

Well, Anchorage, Babel in Reverse, a new installation in DUMBO, is making that possible!

In collaboration with the Endangered Language Alliance (ELA), the new installation by artists Joseph Morris and Owen Trueblood works to unite NYers through the power of language.

As visitors pass by, hanging electronic speakers play a babel of recorded voices speaking hundreds of different languages, though when one walks beneath each speaker the babel fades and individual voices and languages can be heard reciting stories, poems, and fables.https://www.instagram.com/p/CnAwGpYOgEZ/embed/captioned/?cr=1&v=14&wp=540&rd=https%3A%2F%2Fsecretnyc.co&rp=%2Fanchorage-babel-in-reverse-nyc%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR3I43L_aTXjZi6-dR0VmIfrzv0pzUXEIk8V1ezIJwTLQjZdt3TdRKONv8o#%7B%22ci%22%3A0%2C%22os%22%3A2418.0999999046326%2C%22ls%22%3A1708.0999999046326%2C%22le%22%3A1716.5999999046326%7D

The installation features hundreds of different voices, including a number of voices speaking endangered languages that NYC is sadly expected to lose within the next generation or two.

For those who either can’t make it or are interested in hearing more, full audio clips of the interviews sourced by the ELA and used in this installation can also be listened to on this interactive language map.

The installation can be seen and heard hanging under the Manhattan Bridge at the DUMBO Archway. It’s open now through April, 3p.m. – 10p.m.

This isn’t the only installation currently piquing the interest of NYers, however.

Anchorage, Babel in Reverse is just one of many public installations currently on view in NYC. Other installations include Madison Square Park’s 18-foot golden statue, the Garment District’s Living Lantern, and Brookfield Place’s colorful iridescent archway.

Source: secretnyc.co

For those who haven’t been jaded by old age nor had to carry the concern of impending wrinkles, you’re in even more luck!

That’s because Broadway’s annual ‘Kids’ Night’ is officially returning to NYC on Tuesday, March 21st.

Kids Night on Broadway (KNOB) has been a beloved yearly tradition started by The Broadway League that immerses young New Yorkers in the city’s rich arts & culture scene at no cost, “[making] Broadway accessible to a new generation of theatergoers.”

Those ages 18 and under (6-18 years old) can attend a Broadway show for free, so long as they are joined by a full-paying adult.https://www.instagram.com/p/Cnw31squPMr/embed/captioned/?cr=1&v=14&wp=540&rd=https%3A%2F%2Fsecretnyc.co&rp=%2Fkids-night-on-broadway-nyc%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR2ZHcX25-S9uRG6Xit-FgthnGASAnOKw6EjtexnMrb24ch_qAIKB29S6g8#%7B%22ci%22%3A0%2C%22os%22%3A2191.899999856949%2C%22ls%22%3A1861.5999999046326%2C%22le%22%3A2167.5999999046326%7D

Not only will participants get to see a FREE show, but a KNOB ticket includes tons of fabulous activities to do prior to the performance. Plus, parking discounts, restaurant discounts and educational programs also come with a ticket.

The program doesn’t just run in NYC, but across numerous cities in the country. Past cities include Memphis, Tennessee, San Diego, California and Appleton, Wisconsin.

“Thanks to this program, 182,747 kids and teens have attended a show for free and we know that will affect their theatergoing habits for the future,” said Charlotte St. Martin, President of The Broadway League in a statement.

Those looking to participate in this year’s event can score their tickets during during the on-sale period here on the program’s website. The sales launch date and participating Broadway shows have yet to be announced.

It’s important to note that tickets are required for all audience members (children 18 and under included). When purchasing tickets, the cost gets marked down by 50% when ordering for one adult and one child.

Head to the Kid’s Night on Broadway website to learn more or check out their Instagram here.

Source: secretnyc.co

Israel supports Greece’s sovereign rights and territorial integrity, the country’s foreign minister, Eli Cohen, said after meeting his Greek counterpart Nikos Dendias in Jerusalem on Tuesday. 

Additionally, he noted that differences should be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy, while expressing his gratitude to Greece for its friendship toward Israel and stating that Dendias’ visit will serve as a strong foundation.

He also underlined that Greece and Israel play a key role for stability and security in the Eastern Mediterranean and referred to the close alliance between the two countries, as well as their solidarity in times of both peace and crisis.

Cohen pointed out that Dendias is the first foreign minister from the European Union to visit the ministry since the new Israeli government was formed, adding that this was no coincidence but a reflection of the strategic relations between Israel and Greece.

Referring to the agenda of their meeting, Cohen said that they discussed bilateral relations and regional cooperation which further enhances and strengthens the bonds between the two countries, including the sectors of energy, security, innovation, and start-ups. He noted that bilateral trade and investments have increased.

Finally, they discussed international developments and the new opportunities emerging after the Abraham Accords. [AMNA]

Source: ekathimerini.com

Direct flights from the United States are expected to bring more than one million travelers and well over one billion euros in revenue to Greece in the coming tourism season, Tourism Minister Vassilis Kikilias said on Friday in an interview with public broadcaster ERT, ANA reports.

“From March 11, Delta’s first flight from New York is coming and 56 flights per week from the USA and Canada have already been announced so far. As winter and spring progress, more flights will be added,” noted  Kikilias.

Concerning the forecasts for the coming tourist season, he pointed out that the picture that exists from the number of pre-bookings is excellent, with the performance of 2023 expected to be better than that of 2022, especially in the first months.

Source: tornosnews.gr

Mykonos offers a nightlife experience that seamlessly blends class and style with endless partying. The island boasts of elegant beach lounges, upscale cocktail bars and world-renowned clubs that feature top DJs, drawing in revelers from across the globe. The beach party destination on the island can be found at Paradise and Super Paradise beaches, known for their lively beach bars. As the night unfolds, party-goers make their way to the bustling town of Mykonos ‘Chora’, where an array of clubs and bars await, catering to a diverse range of preferences and tastes.

Jackie O’ Town Bar:

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Jackie O’ is a popular gay bar located in Mykonos Town, right on the seawall of the old harbor, overlooking the sea. It is a popular sunset-watching spot for everyone and is located just below the famous church of Paraportiani. With the motto “From sunset to sunrise in style,” Jackie O’ offers a hedonistic experience with sunset cocktails, evening drinks and shots, and music to make you dance the night away. The bar is known for its colorful crowd, impressive drag shows are held nightly, making it a must-visit spot in Mykonos.
Address: Town of Mykonos, Phone: +30 22890 77298

JackieO’ /Photo: Facebook

Jackie O’ /Photo: Facebook

Skandinavian Disco Bar:

Skandinavian Bar and Club is a popular spot on the island, known for its lively atmosphere and friendly crowd. The traditional-looking bar offers a menu of saucily named shots and cocktails, and is a popular destination for backpackers. The bar becomes increasingly energetic as the night goes on, with bouncers on duty and a focus on shots, dancing, and socializing. The patio is a popular spot for cigarette breaks. The club side of the venue gets going around midnight, with a variety of cocktails and drinks and great music from famous DJs. Either arrive early for a relaxed evening or later for a more chaotic night.

Address: Georgouli Phone: +30 2289 022669

Galleraki:

Galleraki is a secret treasure situated in the picturesque Little Venice area of Mykonos, perched above the sea with beautiful views. The bar boasts a one-of-a-kind ambiance, with candlelit seating on the balcony, and signature cocktails crafted with fresh fruits. The ‘katerinaki’ cocktail, made with aromatic melon, is a must-try for any cocktail lover. The atmosphere is intimate and cozy, ideal for a romantic evening or a night out with friends. As the evening progresses, the bar transforms into a lively spot with a variety of music, and the champagne cocktails, though costly, are worth the indulgence for the overall experience.

Address: Mykonos Town, Phone: +30 22890 27188

Scarpa:

Scarpa is an iconic spot in Little Venice that has been a fixture for over four decades. It boasts a fantastic atmosphere, complete with breathtaking views and delectable drinks. The bar is famous for its fresh fruit cocktails, notably the Roger Rabbit and the Scarpa, which is infused with Greek flavors. The venue is a popular destination for both sunset drinks and late-night dancing that lasts until dawn. During the day, Scarpa appears to be a serene coffee shop, but as the sun sets, the music picks up and the party continues until early morning, with revelers dancing on the waterfront terrace while taking in the moonlit waters. Many visit for a sunset drink, but the real fun begins after 11pm, with an energetic crowd ready to boogie on down.

Address: Mykonos Town, Phone: +30 22890 23294

Katerina’s Bar/Photo: Facebook

180* Degrees/photo: Facebook

Katerina’s Bar:

Katerina’s is a bar located in one of the charming houses perched above the water in Little Venice., owned by the first female Greek naval captain and her family. It’s a casual spot where visitors can enjoy classic music and a lively atmosphere. The bar also features a seafood restaurant run by the owner’s son. Customers often come to enjoy the waterfront views and sip cocktails while watching the sunset.

Address: Ag. Anargiron 8 Phone: +30 22890 23084

Astra:

Astra offers a curious blend of lounge bar and hip club, starting off as a mellow spot for a drink in the early evenings, but heating up as the night progresses. Located in Mykonos Town with over 30 years of history, Astra has established itself as one of the most enduring and distinguished establishments on the island. The unique atmosphere, designed by world-renowned jeweler Minas, features over 2,500 lights representing stars and constellations, creating a truly unparalleled experience. The venue attracts an eclectic crowd, from celebrities like Keith Richards and Dolce Gabbana.

Address: Tria Pigadia Phone: +30 2289 024767

Alley Cocktail Bar – Mykonos Town:

The specialty handcrafted cocktails on offer are made using only the freshest and most exotic ingredients sourced from around the world, including elixirs, syrups, and infusions made from garden herbs and spices, and fresh-pressed produce. The atmosphere is chilled out and relaxed, making it the perfect spot for people-watching while enjoying a drink. The bartenders are friendly and always happy to go off-menu to create a personally tailored drink just for you. The lounge-style atmosphere is enhanced by the soul and jazz soundtrack that plays in the background, adding to the overall ambiance of the place.

Address: 19 Mitropoleos Street, Phone +30 22890 24288

180* Degrees – Sunset Bar:

With its prime location offering breathtaking views of the town and the Aegean Sea, the bar provides the perfect setting to enjoy a cocktail or glass of wine as the sun sets over the island. The menu features a variety of signature cocktails, Mediterranean delicacies and an extensive selection of international wines and champagnes. The atmosphere is relaxed and chill with soft music played by the resident DJs. Open daily during the season from 5:30 pm to 9:30 pm, it’s the prime spot to unwind and soak in the idyllic Mykonian sunset.

Phone: 695 195 6333

Queen of Mykonos/photo: Facebook

Queen of Mykonos:

Queen of Mykonos is a stylish cocktail bar located steps away from the center of Chora, known for attracting young and fashionable crowd. The bar serves exotic handcrafted cocktails and delicious appetizers, and it’s a great spot to hang out and soak in the cosmopolitan atmosphere of the island. The bar has a lively atmosphere, especially at night, with endless fun guarantee until the early morning hours. The signature cocktails, particularly those involving champagne, are worth the splurge. The bar also features some DJ action later at night, but for many, it’s an evening warm-up spot before heading to one of the big clubs outside the town.

Address: Greece, Enoplon Dinameon Phone: +30 694 283 8187

Lola Bar:

Lola Bar is a lively and unique cabaret spot, located in the heart of Mykonos Town. It caters to an eclectic crowd of both gay and straight patrons, who come to enjoy its diverse music selection, including jazz-cabaret and French chansons, as well as its special cocktails and friendly service. The atmosphere is lively, yet relaxed and the bar boast an elegant, chic style that makes it stand out from other spots on the island. The service is top-notch, and you’ll find that once you’ve visited Lola, you’ll want to return.

Address: Zanni Pitaraki 4 Phone: +30 2289 078391

Source: travel.gr

 10 out of 10! We are thrilled to receive such an outstanding score from Booking.com! A huge thank you to all our wonderful guests for choosing #MVillas. 

Here’s to another year of creating happy memories! 

#TravellerReviewAwards2023

Top-notch service and premium spirits – all with the Pasaji seal of approval. 

Photo by lovely @Mby____ / IG

Cast your gaze to the Aegean Sea and enjoy a tailored stay at our adults-only Coast Suites in Agios Ioannis.

Turnover in November at hotels and restaurants in Greece outdid 2021 results by 22.7 percent to 297,897,541 euros compared to November 2021 and 242,786,627 euros, said the Hellenic Statistical Authority (ELSTAT) on Friday.

More specifically, according to ELSTAT’s monthly report, marking the largest overall increase in turnover in November 2022 compared to the same month in 2021 was the regional unit of Thira (Santorini) while the smallest rise by 6.2 percent was recorded on Rhodes. The regional unit of Achaia marked  the largest decline.

Looking at enterprises active in accommodation, turnover in November 2022 came to 148,460,008 euros, up by 24.8 percent over November 2021, when respective turnover came to 118,978,734 euros.

Source: ELSTAT.

Businesses offering accommodation and F&B (food and beverage) services saw November 2022 turnover reach 149,437,532 euros, up by 20.7 percent in comparison with the same month in 2021 and a respective turnover of 123,807,893 euros.

Commenting on the news, Greek Tourism Minister Vassilis Kikilias welcomed the year-on-year increase, adding that November 2021 turnover also managed to exceed pre-Covid 2019 levels by 9.11 percent demonstrating that the ministry’s strategy to extend the tourism season was paying off.

Source: ELSTAT.

In an interview to local media, Kikilias went on to add that as a revenue-generator, tourism supported the Greek family and economy but also strengthened regional development aimed at attracting younger Greeks back to rural areas where they can now set up tourism-related enterprises.

Source: news.gtp.gr

Flight activity through Greece’s airports surpassed pre-Covid 2019 levels by 0.6 percent, the Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA) said this week.

According to tentative HCAA data, Athens International Airport (AIA), the 24 airports run by the HCAA and the country’s 14 regional airports managed by Fraport Greece handled a total of 529,235 flights in 2022 compared to 526,155 in 2019.

Last year, the airports handled 63.4 million passengers compared to 64.1 million in 2019, still down by 1.1 percent.

More specifically, from May to October 2022, the 24 regional airports run by the HCAA handled a total of  8,857,010 passengers marking a 4.06 percent rise over the same period in 2019 and 8,511,237 passengers. The number of flights through the 24 airports was up by 0.86 percent to 72,937 compared to the same period in 2019 when 72,317 flights were carried out.

The regional airports managed by Fraport Greece handled some 31.2 million passengers in 2022, marking a 79.0 percent increase compared to 2021 and up by 3.5 percent over 2019. The airports, some on popular destinations such as Mykonos, Santorini, and Corfu, contributed to the positive performance of Fraport Group.

Lastly, overall in 2022, AIA welcomed 22.7 million passengers on domestic and international flights, exceeding respective 2021 levels by 84.1 percent but still down on 2019 levels.

Source: news.gtp.gr

Senior executives of leading arab airlines expressed their intention to extend flight season to Mykonos and Santorini this summer during B2B meetings held in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain by Mykonos. Promo, MykonosBest.eu and SantoriniBest.eu project.

The Head of the project, Ambassador Mykonos Promo – HACC New York, Mykonos based and representative of MTC Group, Mr Kostas Skagias and his team had meetings with Mr Fadhel Darwish Hussain, senior sales executive of Saudia, country manager and Mr. Hussain Abbas Ali, sales manager of Gulf Air Mrs Zeina, as well as Mr. Suneer Mohammed Ali, sales manager, Bahrain-commercial of Emirates.

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They discussed last year’s remarkable performance of their flights to Mykonos and Santorini. Thus, they announced that their airlines, Saudia, Gulf Air, and Emirates via FlyDubai intended to extend the flight period from two to four months, from June to September. 

Specifically, Gulf Air and FlyDubai are expected to launch their first flights in June from Bahrein to Mykonos, and Santorini and Saudia will begin flights from Rhyad to Mykonos. 

Mykonos.Promo, MykonosBest.eu and SantoriniBest.eu team held B2B meetings in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia in order to promote its members as well as to further strengthen its presence in the Arab luxury tourism market. A market with great potential, as according to Knight Frank’s annual Wealth Report, Saudi Arabian UHNWI’s increased by 277% in the previous five years, in Dubai they increased by 18% in one year, while in Bahrain they consists 45% of population.

The New York is the next stop for Mykonos.Promo, MykonosBest.eu and SantoriniBest.eu team in order to participate in the most popular travel show in USA, the Travel and Adventure Show, from 28th to 29th of January 2023. 

Source: travel.gr

This past week Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis traveled to Davos to participate in the World Economic Forum.

Aside from a number of key meetings with leading business personalities, Mitsotakis also spoke to Fareed Zakaria in a wide ranging interview that covered Greece’s economic transformation, upcoming elections, and tensions with Turkey.

The overall message was clear: Greece is back, and in a big way. Tom Ellis, the editor-in-chief of Kathimerini English Edition, joins Thanos Davelis with the latest analysis from Athens.

Source: ekathimerini.com

During the afternoon hours of Saturday, January 21, (right around 3:53p.m. EST) the moon will pass between the Earth and the Sun, blocking the moon from view in what’s known as a New Moon.

Since this event will occur only 5 minutes before the Moon reaches its closest point to Earth for this orbit (called perigee), the first supermoon of the year will occur.

A supermoon is a celestial event that describes the moon at its closest proximity to the Earth on its orbit (or reaches “perigee”). This occurrence is more popular during full moons, as these are the ones we can see and cause the moon to appear bigger and brighter than usual. However, when a supermoon occurs during a new moon they’re not visible to the eye unless they’re causing an eclipse.

Thus, since the year’s first supermoon will occur during a New Moon, it unfortunately won’t be visible.

On the other hand, the day of or day after the New Moon marks the start of a new month for many lunisolar calendars–and in this case the first month of the Chinese calendar begins on Sunday, January 22, making this Chinese New Year, the start of the Year of the Rabbit!

So though you won’t need to carve out any time in your calendar to check out this weekend’s supermoon, you can still pack your weekend with tons of exciting Lunar New Year events happening around NYC!

Source: secretnyc.co

President Katerina Sakellaropoulou highlighted the excellent relations and the prospects for even closer cooperation with Germany on the second day of her official visit to that country.

At a meeting with Frank-Walter Steinmeier at his official residence at Bellevue Palace in Berlin, Sakellaropoulou referred to the two countries’ shared vision, which she said was based on the rule of law and repulsing all forms of revisionism.

Steinmeier emphasized the grave responsibility of politicians during the current difficult time and the prospects for the development of even closer and more friendly relations between the two countries.

He expressed his satisfaction at Sakellaropoulou’s first visit to Germany, clarifying that this had been delayed due to the pandemic, while also expressing his certainty that “intensive deliberations” between the two presidents will significantly contribute to further enhancing the already close and friendly bilateral relations.

Sakellaropoulou said her visit to Germany was proof of the excellent level of relations between the two countries and said the meeting would promote a “common perception on a series of major issues concerning the challenges of our times.” [AMNA]

Source: ekathimerini.com

The Minister of Tourism announced the numbers in an interview concerning the opening of a new Hellenic Tourism Organization office in Melbourne

“The regional airports have set a record with 31 million passengers, which shows that our strategy for better tourism throughout Greece has succeeded,” said Tourism Minister Vassilis Kikilias in an interview with the Open TV station, adding that for Athens tourism was this year the main source of funding, boosting citizens’ pockets, restaurants, cafes, museums and commerce.

Mr. Kikilias announced that the Bill that the Ministry of Tourism will bring to Parliament in the coming days provides for the establishment of an Hellenic Tourism Organization-EOT office in Melbourne – a strategic move that will significantly contribute to attracting travelers from Australia. “It is very important for us to add more markets, more dynamics in the country, so that we have travelers and tourists 12 months a year. This is the target, this effort is being aimed at. It is crucial, because as you understand it is on the other side of the planet, it is another continent. It has a significant Greek element – 300,000 Greek-Australians live in Melbourne – and it is a market that has finally opened up after two years of restrictive measures due to the pandemic,” he said.

What do reservations show?

Asked about the coming tourist season, the Minister of Tourism stated that the picture of pre-bookings shows that in 2023 Greece will also have a strong tourist stream, mentioning indicatively that 56 direct flights per week have already been announced from the USA and Canada to “El . Venizelos”, while others will have been added by spring.

Year-round tourism

Regarding tourists visiting Athens and popular destinations even in the heart of winter, he replied that this is a result of the strategy implemented for 12-month tourism and includes a network of initiatives and interventions, such as the EOT campaigns that now take place all 12 months of year, the promotion of the city break and the decision of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis to allocate 20 million euros to airlines in order to carry out flights in the off season.

What Kikilias said about the elections

Regarding the upcoming elections, he said that their date does not affect tourism planning, as the start of the season in early March means that whenever the election is held, Greece will have tourists.

Source: in.gr

The NYC dining scene is forever changing, and although that means losing some classic favorites, it also means gaining some new must-visit spots. This year has been ripe with brand new restaurants and bars, especially offering some truly incredible menus and atmospheres.

Here are some of the best new restaurants in NYC that have opened within the past few months (with a few that are opening up in the coming months) that really stand out.

1. Tán, Midtown East

Take a trip to Tulum and escape to the Iberian Peninsula at this brand new restaurant in Midtown. The seventh opening from world-renowned Chef Sandoval features a modern, seafood-focused menu, as well as coastal Mexican fare with ingredients sourced straight from Mexico. The coastal interior pairs beautifully with their menu highlights, which include Aguachile tán, a crispy potato-chorizo taco with shrimp and aguachile verde, Red Snapper Tikinxic Style, and a traditional Yucatán Pork Belly. Make your reservation here.

Where: 209 E 49th St

2. JOURNEY, Flatiron

This out-of-the-box immersive gastronomy experience is something you have to experience! JOURNEY offers four unique futuristic theatrical dining and cocktail experiences that are very cool. For $175, you can choose between one of their two ticketed experiences, JOURNEY 360 (a communal five-course prix fixe meal with floor-to-ceiling and tabletop 360 projection mapping for up to 20 people) or a smaller experience JOURNEY Odyssey (five-course prix fixe meal at tables accommodating 2-4 people).

Each experience will guide you through a variety of immersions, including under a shipwreck, the side of the Empire State Building, the canals of Venice, and a whole lot more. If you still want to experience a non-ticketed event at a fraction of a cost, you can check out the JOURNEY Salon (a unique bar with tapas offering) or the JOURNEY Epic Cafe (café, bar, and immersive fine dining with a touch of theater). Learn more here.

Where: 27 W 24th St

3. Gab’s, West Village

Opens on January 11, 2023

Founded by chef Gabby Madden who is the figurehead behind other spots like Lola Taverna and Emmett’s on Grove, comes this new West Village spot, Gab’s. This concept is meant to feel as though you’re stepping into Gab’s personal living room, thanks to the large orange banquette and teak floors, the intimate space where guests can enjoy and upscale menu, and of course a fun atmosphere.

The menu itself places emphasis on micro-seasons, and features highlights that feel like personal touches, including the Finocchiona (Gab’s curated charcuterie plate that will change regularly to highlight small producers of artisan charcuterie across the US) and Gab’s Burger (housemade crackly sweet potato buns, chef’s signature dry-aged burger blend (ground in-house) served with melted gouda, guajillo catsup, black garlic mustard). Full menu here.

Where: 76 Carmine St

4. L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele, West Village

Iconic Italian restaurant L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele recently opened their newest NYC flagship and we couldn’t be anymore excited. If you’re a pizza aficionado, you need to check out the Neapolitan pizza, three dining bars, and wine room full of Italian-produced wines. Not only is the house-made pizza as authentic as it is in Naples, you can even watch them make it from your seat, since the layout and kitchen view is wide open! Full menu and reservations available here.

Where: 2 Bank St

5. Caleta, East Village

An ice cream shop by day and bar by night is what you’ll find at Caleta! In collaboration with Bad Habit, you can grab a flavorful ice cream during the day or some savory bites and drinks at night. Check out their menu here and be sure to stop by if you’re in East Village!

Where: 131 Avenue A

6. Jelas, Union Square

Clarified cocktails are the focus at Jelas, a brand new bar that specializes in milk punch cocktails. These concotions are made by combining milk and alcohol, and then clarifying the mixture to remove the solid particles from the milk, either by straining the drink through a cheesecloth or by using a centrifuge. The menu here consists of five rotating milk punch cocktails, including the Vietnamese Coffee (three blends of coffee), the Singapore Sling (clarified milk punch with a fruit forward finish), and the New York Sour (a whiskey sour with red wine foam). Plus, their Southeast Asian decor and small plates are perfect to match.

Where: 17 E 13th St

7. Karen’s Diner, West Village

Opens March 1, 2023

Don’t upset Karen! That’s right…arriving in March is a pop-up concept that plays on the idea of what it means to be a stereotypical “Karen.” You’ll not only find hilariously rude waiters with non-existent manners, but also “kick-ass” grub like Karen-themed burgers (see the Karen’s Got Real Beef or the “I Want to See the Manager” Karen) and drinks too. You’re sure to find some laughs here, and you can even get a free drink if YOUR name is Karen!

Where: TBA

8. White Olive, Midtown

This brand new Mediterrean restaurant with a focus on Greek and Turkish roots is inspired by the travels of brothers and co-founders Michael Karim Sopariwalla and Amin Himani. With executive chef Hasan Karci at the helm, you’ll find all sorts of delicious Mediterrean cuisine including Trenette Truffle, Shrimp Gnocchi, Red Snapper, Lavraki, and a whole lot more! Full menu and reservations here.

Where: 39 W 55th St

9. Roscioli, SoHo

Opens end of January 2023

One of Rome’s hottest destinations is touching down in SoHo at the end of this month, and taking over the dinner party venue that is currently known as Niche Niche. Roscioli will be entering the space, serving their classics like pizza rossa, pizza bianca, cured meats and cheeses, breads, pasta, and a whole lot more. The multi-floor situation will see a Cucina-style deli, restaurant, and wine bar on the ground level while downstairs will be a blended style of the old Niche Niche and the new Roscioli.

Where: 43 MacDougal St

10. Tsuta, DUMBO

This mouth-watering ramen restaurant is no longer a secret in NYC anymore, but their newest location in DUMBO might still be unknown to many! This spot is Michelin-starred and offers about 40 seats inside and 15 outside to dine at. Of course they have loads of options to pick from, but we suggest their Brooklyn only special, a vegetable ramen made with okra, leeks, and lotus.

Where: 22 Old Fulton St

11. Shmackwich, Chelsea

Shmackwich in Olly Olly Market is serving an elevated menu of bodega classics, including an unreal Wagyu Chopped Cheese (pictured above) which is to absolutely die for. While they also serve other hearty NYC classics like the Wetty Waffle Chicken Sandwich and Hot Whiskey Wings, the chopped cheese is the talk of the town. Plus, it’s even been given the stamp of approval by celebrities Tom Sachs and Meals By Cugine. Learn more here.

Where: 601 W 26th St

12. Pure Grit, Barclays Center

Our love for this vegan BBQ spot is well-known, but did you know it’s now available inside one of NYC’s iconic arenas? That’s right! Now while you’re watching the Brooklyn Nets or attending a concert at The Barclays Center, you can stop by Pure Grit for a bite to eat. Try out the house-smoked Jackfruit Nachos piled high with smoked jackfruit, cashew-queso and pickled jalapeños drizzled with its signature Pure Grit BBQ Sauce, or the exclusive Barclays-Center sliders served on cornbread waffles with smoked jackfruit and smoked Impossible cut “brisket.” Learn more here.

Where: Barclays Center

13. The Polar Lounge, DUMBO

Opens January 12, 2023

Get ready to “chill” on Harriet’s Rooftop at 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge this winter! Making it one of our favorite winter rooftop bars, this “glacial landscape” overlooking the Manhattan skyline and Brooklyn Bridge will feature custom seating and tables alongside unique cocktails served in crystal clear ice glasses. Reservations are highly recommended and VIP tables are an option too. You can do that here.

Where: 60 Furman St, Brooklyn, Floor 10

14. K’Far, Williamsburg

This Israeli restaurant, bar & café in the lobby of Williamsburg’s Hoxton Hotel serves all sorts of tasteful goodies including pastries, Jerusalem bagel sandwiches, and other entrees “inspired by the food, energy, and warmth of the kitchens of Tel Aviv and K’Far Saba.” Plus, their interior lined with plants and warm lighting makes this one of the most inviting places to stop in for a bite. Full menu here.

Where: 97 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn

15. Casino, Lower East Side

Everything at Casino is focused on coastal European culture, from the red and white checkerboard floors to the carefully curated menu. With an emphasis on coastal seafood and a divine wine list, the experience will have you wanting to book a trip to the Italian and French Riviera within no time. Full menu here.

Where: 171 East Broadway

16. Nubeluz, NoMad

Looking for your next place to have sky-high cocktails? Well, look no further. José Andrés just opened a mesmerizing “lightbox in the sky” that sits atop The Ritz-Carlton, Nomad. Sip cocktails at this swanky spot and admire the twinkling city lights from 500 feet above. In addition to the dazzling city views, indulge in rich textures and materials that liven the space’s interior from luxe seating to an onyx bar top. Nubeluz also offers two outdoor terraces for guests to enjoy more of the cityscape.

The food menu combines American and Spanish bites, offering everything from the classiest grilled cheese you’ll ever taste to Jamón Ibérico de Bellota Cinco Jotas. If you’re looking to add a little glamour into your night, we definitely recommend checking Nubeluz out. Reservations are required. Learn more here.

Where: 25 West 28th Street, New York (The Top of The Ritz-Carlton, NoMad)

17. Jōji, Midtown

Tucked beneath Manhattan’s One Vanderbilt, this hidden sushi restaurant below street level is offering an omakase experience unlike anywhere else in NYC. With Chef George Ruan (previous Head Sushi Chef at Masa) running the kitchen and Michelin-Starred Chef Daniel Boulud on operations, we’d expect nothing less than greatness. Jōji sets out to bring authentic Japanese traditions to the heart of Manhattan.

Experiences are available at the 10-person counter or separate private dining room that fits up to 8 people. The omakase menu is $375/person and reservations can be made online through Resy. Learn more here.

Where: 1 Vanderbilt Ave, New York

18. 11 Tigers, East Village

Find the 11Tigers lair located on the second floor of building 225 on Avenue B. Self described as a “speakeasy with a Thai heart and a Japanese soul,” 11Tigers marries Thai sum yadong with Japanese izakaya for an unforgettable dining experience.

Treat yourself to their flavorful 11 Tigers Tom Yum Ramen or Crying Tiger Gyoza, but don’t miss out on their inventive cocktail menu. Experience drinks made with yadong, a traditional Thai liqueur that’s often viewed as a “health tonic.” Tons of varieties exist, one of the most popular being 11 Tigers yadong, hence where the speakeasy draws its name from.

Where: 225 Avenue B 2nd Floor, New York

19. Slutty Vegan, Fort Greene

Atlanta’s extremely popular vegan burger joint has traveled north to NYC with its first-ever Brooklyn location. The cheeky spot drew a massive crowd at its grand opening with a line that ran down the block. See what all the hype is about and order yourself one of their “slutty burgers” with a side of “slutty fries” with signature slut dust. Read more here.

Where: 690 Fulton Street, Brooklyn

20. Masalawala & Sons, Park Slope

Age-old techniques meet a colorful new space in Park Slope’s newest Indian restaurant, Masalawala & Sons. The spot comes from the same hospitality group, Unapologetic Foods, behind notorious establishments such as Dhamaka, Adda Indian Canteen and Rowdy Rooster by restaurateur Roni Mazumdar & Chintan Pandya. The menu explores Roni’s favorite family recipes “from the perspective of [Satyen Mazumda, Roni’s father] a 75 year old immigrant.”

Masalawala & Sons even doubles as grocery store. Diners can shop spices, chocolates, and coffee to bring their favorite flavors from the menu home with them. Learn more here.

Where: 365 5th Ave, Brooklyn

21. Highwater Rooftop, FiDi

Enjoy sky-high views from 25 stories above at this new bi-level rooftop that recently opened in FiDi. Whether you’re looking for a perfect spot for after work drinks or an intimate space to take someone special, you definitely want to check this spot out. It’s still a bit under-the-radar so head over before it the secret’s out!

Where: 120 Water St, New York

Written by Claire Leaden, Justine Golata, & Corey Fuller

Source: secretnyc.co

How the royal estates and the summer palace are being revamped

In Tatoi nothing is the same anymore. In the former royal estates, the marks left by the devastating fire in the summer of 2021 are still visible. The fire, which had reached the historic core of the estate, may have left the palace untouched and burned only two of the containers, with various objects from the buildings of the estate, but it altered the natural environment while causing serious damage to 13 peripheral buildings , with the most important to the Directorate, but also those of the Personnel Housing, the Forestry building, Telecommunications, the Guard of the Tombs and the “Sturm Residence” and the Caretaker’s House.

The image that will be seen by the guests who will attend the funeral of the former King Constantine, on Monday, has nothing to do with the former paradise of Tatoi. Although in recent months crews have been systematically working on the cleanup, black, burnt logs remain as a reminder of the ecological disaster caused by the fire a year and a half ago, although the forest has begun to regenerate.

Regarding the restoration of the summer palace and the kitchens, the contractors of the project, ERETVO, ETVO and Nirikos Techniki, is proceeding. The aim is that by the end of 2025, the premises will be open to visitors and function as a museum, where the furniture and objects of the former royal family will be exhibited, while a museological study will also be carried out for the new agricultural building. At the same time, the gardens of the palace will be restored, the conservation and restoration of the artefacts will progress, as well as their recording, documentation and registration, as well as the digitization of the printed archival material that has been found in the premises. For the time being, the contractor who has settled in the area is proceeding with preliminary works inside the building. The restoration of the palace has secured funding of 14.3 million euros (including VAT) from the Recovery Fund.

Studies on regional buildings

As for the burnt buildings still lying exposed to rain and damp as they have lost their roofs, they need immediate protection before they collapse, like other important regional buildings. For some of these there are ready studies for their restoration. Some time ago, the Central Council of Newer Monuments gave a positive opinion on the studies of the new Cow Shed, the Horse Stables and the Refuge, as well as the accessibility study of the restored Forester’s House, which will host the information and visitor information center about the history of the estate. The operations will be carried out with the aim of highlighting their architectural and historical value, preserving their authentic morphological and typological elements.

For the New Cow Sheds, the approved final study foresees its conversion into an exhibition space. The ground floor will host a museum display area for the objects preserved in the building, with separate sections for the display of dairy, oil and wine production. The same building will host the exhibition of the cars found on the estate (Rolls-Royce of the era, MG TD Midget, electric Fiat 500 Boano Spider Elegance and golf vehicles). The project, with a budget of 4,300,000 euros, has secured funding from the Recovery Fund and a completion date of the end of 2025.

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Εστιατόριο στο Ναύπλιο έδιωξε ομόφυλο ζευγάρι επειδή «υπάρχουν παιδιά και ηλικιωμένοι»

ΕΛΛΑΔΑ

Έρχονται αλλαγές στο νόμο για το κάπνισμα

The Horse Stable building will function as a place for children’s creative work and an information center for horses. It is part of the second complex of stables which was erected during the first period of reconstruction of the estate (1873-78) by George I. In its immediate surroundings, the estate’s bell tower is preserved – with the word “Tatoi” and the date “1895” engraved on the bell.

SW view of the Stables

The restoration of the Refuge is underway so that it will host a digital visitor information center. Its basement belongs to the palatial section of the Estate and has two visible entrances. Its construction is placed during the interwar period of reconstruction (1930-1939) at the same time as the underground portico that connects the Summer Palace with the Kitchens. During the December events (1944-45), during the fighting in the wider area of the airport, the residents of the Estate took refuge there.

The restored “Forest Ranger’s House” is now accessible, after the reconstruction of the 850 meter long route from the Lefkas Gate to the building. In the attic of the House there is a digital projection with snapshots from the history of the estate. The Forester House in 1896 is recorded as a stable, supporting the Head Gardener’s House. 

New necessary infrastructure

The studies for the modernization of the infrastructure networks – water supply, fire fighting, irrigation, drainage and sewage treatment, electric power and telecommunications have also been completed and approved by Central Council of Newer Monuments  based on the requirements created by the new uses that will be accommodated in the estate.

Among other things, a connection with the central water main, a new distribution network for all the buildings and facilities of the Estate, construction of a water supply tank, a fire extinguishing network that will cover the entire core of the Estate, with fire hydrants and water jets in selected locations as well as an installation of a self-contained system with gas in spaces where water cannot be used as an extinguishing medium. There will also be undergrounding of the electricity network, a sewage network and sewage treatment plant, a telecommunications network, etc. The infrastructure projects will be financed by the operational program “Transport Infrastructures, Environment and Sustainable Development 2014-2020”.

However, it is noteworthy that the “Tatoi Estate Management Agency” has not yet been established to direct the utilization of the area, which was already foreseen in 2006 in the Presidential Decree for the protection of the mountainous mass of Parnitha and the utilization of Tatoi.

Source: in.gr

For the first time in a while, the economic party is happening in the Mediterranean, and Greece is leading the way ahead of Spain and Portugal.

As The Economist looked into the best and worst economic performers of 2022, Greece found itself at the top of the list, with high growth, narrow inflation breadth, plunging debt-to-GDP ratio and an outperforming stock market.

Prime Minister Mitsotakis tweeted about the results, saying the government’s efforts and reforms were making a real impact. Prianthi Roy joins Thanos Davelis to break down the numbers and explore whether this positive trend will persist in 2023.

Prianthi Roy is the Country Forecast Manager and Europe Analyst at Economist Intelligence (EIU). She oversees long-term forecasts and business environment rankings for 82 countries globally and leads country analysis for Europe, specifically the Nordic countries.

Source: ekathimerini.com

There are restaurants in Chinatown that have been around since the 1920s—like the well-known Nom Wah, a tea parlor that also offers delicious dim sum. Even with competitive eateries opening up in other NYC boroughs, Chinatown still has plenty of delicious spots that are worth visiting. But, like most things in NYC, the choices can absolutely be overwhelming. So we pulled together some spots that are a must-try if you’re eating in the area. Here’s our top 15:

[Bonus spot: there’s a cart at 159 Hester Street called Cheong Fun Noodle that’s been serving amazing rice noodle and steamed noodle rolls for over 30 years.]

1. Buddha Bodai

Situated in the heart of Chinatown since 2004, Buddha Bodai serves up tasty vegetarian meals. Their most popular dishes include triple mushroom pan fried noodles, pan fried turnip cakes, and shrimp dumplings.

Where: 5 Mott St

2. Chikarashi

Offering a contemporary twist on Hawaiian poke, Chikarashi offers a selection of signature bowls that spotlight traditional Japanese ingredients and techniques. Each bowl is designed with intention and care, using the freshest ingredients and featuring delicious house-made sauces.

Where: 227 Canal St

3. Dim Sum Palace

There are a few Dim Sum Palaces around NYC, but the newest Chinatown location that opened last month is the largest in the city! They serve dim sum (as the name suggests), along with seafood stir-fry, shumai and BBQ pork buns, and a whole lot more! The best part though? They’re open until 4 am!

Where: 27 Division St

4. Dimes

The menu at Dimes changes weekly with menu items drawing inspiration from Japanese, South American, and Mediterranean cuisines. Offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner this menu has a large variety of dishes to choose from, all of which look way too good to eat.

Where: 49 Canal St

5. Joe’s Shanghai

Serving Shanghainese cuisine, Joe’s Shanghai restaurant offers signature soup dumplings which have been the favorite of many for over 20 years. Their menu includes many more dishes in addition to their beloved dumplings, all of which are equally as tasty.

Where: 46 Bowery St

6. Nom Wah Tea Parlor

Originally established as a tea parlor and bakery, Nom Wah has become a dim sum staple in NYC. Some of their most popular dishes include fluffy pork buns and crab claws encased in fried shrimp.

Where: 13 Doyers St

7. Xi’an Famous Foods

Part of a local Chinese food chain Xi’an Famous Foods features a menu containing spicy noodles, a plethora of dumplings, and some cumin flavored burgers. The menu isn’t large, but it’s definitely delicious.

Where: 45 Bayard St

8. Jing Fong

For one of the best dim sum experiences you can have in Chinatown you’ll for sure want to check out Jing Fong. Take a seat in their massive dining room which even sports a stage for special events. Once seated dim sum carts will roll all around you with anything you could ever imagine. Some of their most popular menu items include their fried turnip cakes, fried shrimp and chive dumplings, and their chicken buns.

Where: 202 Centre St

9. Dr. Clark

The cuisine of Hokkaido, the northernmost of Japan’s main islands, is known for its sea urchin. And while Hokkaido’s cuisine is Dr. Clark’s specialty, their star ingredient is mutton. Settle down under one of its heated communal blankets and dine under a twirling disco ball while chowing down on one of their many tabletop-grill specialties. See their full menu here.

Where: 104 Bayard St

10. Hwa Yuan Szechuan

Combining a modern experience with traditional Chinese cuisine, some highlights of Hwa Yuan’s menu include the spicy wine chicken and a sweet and sour fish. Many more items can be found here.

Where: 42 E Broadway

11. Alimama

This cafe and dessert shop in Chinatown will have your sweet tooth yelling and your mouth watering! The talk of the town is their Boba Milk Tea Cream Puffs, but they also have Vietnamese coffee, Royal Milk Tea with mini boba, Creme Brulee Mochi Donuts, and so many more tasty treats.

Where: 89A Bayard St

12. Golden Unicorn

Golden Unicorn is another great dim sum option. From pork buns and rice rolls to baked pork pastries and rice noodle rolls each option is delicious. We recommend getting here around 10am on weekends to avoid a long wait.

Where: 18 E Broadway

13. August Gatherings

August Gatherings is an upscale restaurant with menu items like boiled chicken and fish ball soup and roasted duck with dried plum sauce. This restaurant is a great place to go with friends, and also offers private dinner in Omakase style.

Where: 266 Canal Street

14. Deluxe Green Bo

Deluxe Green Bo made our list for the best dumplings in NYC and for good reason! They also have delicious scallion pancakes that are to die for! This spot is cash-only though so keep that in mind if you want to stop by for a quick bite!

Where: 66 Bayard St

15. Wo Hop

If you’re looking for some of the most delicious Chinese food in all of NYC, you have to try Wo Hop. It’s gained some popularity on TikTok and social media in the past few months, and it’s all worth the hype! You can get any Chinese staple you want too (and for a good price), including orange chicken, dumplings, and more. Plus, it’s so intriguing to walk downstairs through the entrance!

Where: 17 Mott St

https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/1/embed?mid=1N5Q5PK44ZgAW5XVesef9VPMUx06BUfk&ehbc=2E312F

Source: secretnyc.co

How the royal estates and the summer palace are being revamped

In Tatoi nothing is the same anymore. In the former royal estates, the marks left by the devastating fire in the summer of 2021 are still visible. The fire, which had reached the historic core of the estate, may have left the palace untouched and burned only two of the containers, with various objects from the buildings of the estate, but it altered the natural environment while causing serious damage to 13 peripheral buildings , with the most important to the Directorate, but also those of the Personnel Housing, the Forestry building, Telecommunications, the Guard of the Tombs and the “Sturm Residence” and the Caretaker’s House.

The image that will be seen by the guests who will attend the funeral of the former King Constantine, on Monday, has nothing to do with the former paradise of Tatoi. Although in recent months crews have been systematically working on the cleanup, black, burnt logs remain as a reminder of the ecological disaster caused by the fire a year and a half ago, although the forest has begun to regenerate.

Regarding the restoration of the summer palace and the kitchens, the contractors of the project, ERETVO, ETVO and Nirikos Techniki, is proceeding. The aim is that by the end of 2025, the premises will be open to visitors and function as a museum, where the furniture and objects of the former royal family will be exhibited, while a museological study will also be carried out for the new agricultural building. At the same time, the gardens of the palace will be restored, the conservation and restoration of the artefacts will progress, as well as their recording, documentation and registration, as well as the digitization of the printed archival material that has been found in the premises. For the time being, the contractor who has settled in the area is proceeding with preliminary works inside the building. The restoration of the palace has secured funding of 14.3 million euros (including VAT) from the Recovery Fund.

Studies on regional buildings

As for the burnt buildings still lying exposed to rain and damp as they have lost their roofs, they need immediate protection before they collapse, like other important regional buildings. For some of these there are ready studies for their restoration. Some time ago, the Central Council of Newer Monuments gave a positive opinion on the studies of the new Cow Shed, the Horse Stables and the Refuge, as well as the accessibility study of the restored Forester’s House, which will host the information and visitor information center about the history of the estate. The operations will be carried out with the aim of highlighting their architectural and historical value, preserving their authentic morphological and typological elements.

For the New Cow Sheds, the approved final study foresees its conversion into an exhibition space. The ground floor will host a museum display area for the objects preserved in the building, with separate sections for the display of dairy, oil and wine production. The same building will host the exhibition of the cars found on the estate (Rolls-Royce of the era, MG TD Midget, electric Fiat 500 Boano Spider Elegance and golf vehicles). The project, with a budget of 4,300,000 euros, has secured funding from the Recovery Fund and a completion date of the end of 2025.

The Horse Stable building will function as a place for children’s creative work and an information center for horses. It is part of the second complex of stables which was erected during the first period of reconstruction of the estate (1873-78) by George I. In its immediate surroundings, the estate’s bell tower is preserved – with the word “Tatoi” and the date “1895” engraved on the bell.

SW view of the Stables

The restoration of the Refuge is underway so that it will host a digital visitor information center. Its basement belongs to the palatial section of the Estate and has two visible entrances. Its construction is placed during the interwar period of reconstruction (1930-1939) at the same time as the underground portico that connects the Summer Palace with the Kitchens. During the December events (1944-45), during the fighting in the wider area of the airport, the residents of the Estate took refuge there.

The restored “Forest Ranger’s House” is now accessible, after the reconstruction of the 850 meter long route from the Lefkas Gate to the building. In the attic of the House there is a digital projection with snapshots from the history of the estate. The Forester House in 1896 is recorded as a stable, supporting the Head Gardener’s House. 

New necessary infrastructure

The studies for the modernization of the infrastructure networks – water supply, fire fighting, irrigation, drainage and sewage treatment, electric power and telecommunications have also been completed and approved by Central Council of Newer Monuments  based on the requirements created by the new uses that will be accommodated in the estate.

Among other things, a connection with the central water main, a new distribution network for all the buildings and facilities of the Estate, construction of a water supply tank, a fire extinguishing network that will cover the entire core of the Estate, with fire hydrants and water jets in selected locations as well as an installation of a self-contained system with gas in spaces where water cannot be used as an extinguishing medium. There will also be undergrounding of the electricity network, a sewage network and sewage treatment plant, a telecommunications network, etc. The infrastructure projects will be financed by the operational program “Transport Infrastructures, Environment and Sustainable Development 2014-2020”.

However, it is noteworthy that the “Tatoi Estate Management Agency” has not yet been established to direct the utilization of the area, which was already foreseen in 2006 in the Presidential Decree for the protection of the mountainous mass of Parnitha and the utilization of Tatoi.

Source: in.gr

The first direct flight from the United States will be by Delta Airlines and will arrive at Athens International Airport on March 11, Tourism Minister Vassilis Kikilias said in an interview on Saturday.

At a television program by national broadcaster ERT, Kikilias said that Delta stopped its direct flights to Athens – traditionally signalling the start of Greece’s tourist season – as late as four days ago, signalling the extension of the tourism season into winter.

“This company stopped its (direct) flights just four days ago, which means that shortly, besides Emirates, American airlines will provide direct flights (to Greece) every month of the year,” the minister said, adding that “it is very important that the extension of the tourism season is not limited to promises but is acted upon.” As he said, a total of 56 flights per week have been declared by the United States and Canada with Athens as their destination, and the number is rising.

The minister also called on the tourism sector to be ready to receive visitors by March 1, and noted that the greatest challenge Greece will face in terms of arrivals is the number of airplane slots at airports. Demand, he explained, will stretch into the night, as flights will be coming from Australia and  China (the latter restricting trips abroad in 2022 due to the pandemic), while talks about flights from the Middle East are also ongoing.  

North Aegean Regional Governor Giorgos Chatzimarkos, also present at the TV program, said that the first direct flight to the region (Rhodes International Airport ‘Diagoras’) will also take place on March 11. The indications for 2023 travel data are so optimistic, he said, that “they almost look too good to be true.”

Source: amna.gr

Signing of a memorandum of cooperation between Hellenic Aerospace Industries and four Universities for the design and industrial production of a new drone

Taking advantage of the consistent course of work and the know-how acquired from the “Archytas” program for the research, development and industrial production of the first Autonomous Multi-Purpose Aerial Vehicle by entities of the wider public sector, the Ministry of Finance is proceeding to finance the design of a second, more complex unmanned aerial vehicle (drone).

In this context, under the supervision of the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of National Defence, the Hellenic Aerospace Industry (HAI) and four Universities of the country – the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, the Democritus University of Thrace, the University of Thessaly and the University of Patras – are proceeding with signing a memorandum of cooperation for the design and industrial production of the new aircraft.

Ink on Thursday

The memorandum of cooperation will be signed on Thursday January 12 at 14.00, at an event at the Ministry of Finance, with the participation of Minister Christos Staikouras and Minister of National Defense Nikos Panagiotopoulos, by the administration of HAI and the rectors’ authorities of the four Universities.

The Ministry of Finance, as the main shareholder of EAB, wishing to contribute to the further development of domestic know-how in innovative sectors, in order to strengthen the competitiveness of the company and the country as a whole, decided to support and finance yet another important program, which is expected to yield multiple benefits for the involved bodies and, more broadly, for the scientific community, the Greek economy and, overall, for Greece.

Source: in.gr

The first phase will be a pilot project

The project to install equipment to provide up to the 5th generation (5G) mobile phone signal in both Metro stations and tunnels begins.

This is a project that in its first phase – until March 2023 – according to Athens track commuting authority STASY information, will be a pilot with the aim of finding the best technical solution, which will then be applied to the entire network.

More specifically, during the pilot phase of the project, it is planned to install different antenna systems at the Alimos station and in the two tunnels of Ag. Dimitrios-Ilioupolis and Ilioupolis-Alimos. These systems will work in parallel and at the same time, making it possible to make measurements and gather data, from the conclusions of which the final technical solution will emerge. In the next phase of the project, the technical solution that will have qualified from the pilot stage, will be implemented -within about three months- in the five stations and the four tunnels of the section of the Agiow Dimitrios-Elliniko network, while the coverage of all stations and tunnels of the metro network with a mobile phone signal will gradually progress.

On the occasion of the launch of the project, the managing director of STASY, Athanasios Kottaras, noted: “Continuous and seamless access to communication services is an urgent need in modern societies. Listening to the needs of the traveling public, STASY is starting work to cover the Metro network with a mobile phone signal, so that passengers will soon be able to communicate uninterruptedly during their journeys. This is a project that demonstrates the commitment of both STASY and the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport to create added value for society through the upgrading of infrastructure and services to passengers, but also a project that will increase the revenue of company”.

The project is implemented within the framework of an agreement signed by STASY with the mobile telephone companies Cosmote and Vantage Towers.

Source: in.gr

A Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) for the financing of the construction of a new drone was signed on Thursday among the Hellenic Aerospace Industry (EAV), the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, the Democritus University of Thrace, the University of Thessaly and the University of Patras.

The signing was attended by Finance Minister Christos Staikouras, the Minister of National Defence Nikos Panagiotopoulos, the head of EAV and the rectory authorities of four Greek universities.

Leading up to the successful signing, the finance ministry had proceeded with the financing of a second, more complex Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), making use of the know-how acquired from the “Archytas” programme for the research, development and industrial production of the first Autonomous Multi-Purpose Aerial Vehicle by entities in the wider public sector.

The new program for the construction of the drone will be launched on Monday, January 16, it was noted.

Praising the potential of the “Archytas” programme, Staikouras said that “the harmonious cooperation with highly specialized officers of the country’s Armed Forces allows us to be more optimistic about the outcome of this new, important and demanding undertaking.”

Panagiotopoulos observed that “we can go faster than neighboring countries (including those who spent more than ten years) in the development of the new product, as long as an organized and coordinated start occurs. There is good infrastructure, talent and contribution of the academic institutions, and I think that with the help of the Armed Forces all good preconditions exist so we can have a final product.”

Sourvce: amna.gr

And we mean everything…

Head to the Polar Lounge on Harriet’s Rooftop at 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge for what may be the coolest bar experience coming to NYC!

Some of you may remember the Minus5 bar that used to be in the New York Hilton Midtown, but sadly the spot has been closed for a few years. Since then NYC has been missing its very own ice bar that has become a popular attraction in cities such as Vegas & beyond. But not any more!https://www.instagram.com/reel/CZiAydQM6wj/embed

Last year, Harriet’s Rooftop debuted Polar Lounge—a bar made entirely of ice—and it was such a success that it’s making a comeback for 2023! New Yorkers can adventure back into an arctic oasis at this pop-bar opening to the public on January 12th. It will only be in town through the end of February so you better make a reservation before your opportunity melts away!

The “glacial landscape” overlooking the Manhattan skyline and Brooklyn Bridge features custom seating and tables carved entirely from ice! Beyond ice seating and tables, try their unique cocktails all served in crystal clear ice glasses.

Sounds a bit chilly don’t you think? Well, fear not because Polar Lounge has teamed up with luxury outerwear brand, Moose Knuckles to provide cozy parkas that will keep guests warm throughout their entire visit. *However, we do recommend you bring your own pair of gloves.

Visitors can choose general admission or VIP Table entry. For general admission, you’ll get access to the standing area and a complimentary cocktail courtesy of Proximo Tequila. For those choosing the VIP Table, entry includes table service backdropped by the glittering skyline, among a complimentary cocktail and caviar amuse-bouche per person. A portion of all sales will go towards the Oceanic Global’s educational programs and industry solutions.

Make your reservation here.

When: Thursday – Sunday (5 p.m. – 10 p.m.)

Where: 60 Furman St, Brooklyn (10th Floor)

Source: secretnyc.co

Constantine, the former and last king of Greece, will be buried as a private citizen in Tatoi, the former summer residence of Greece’s royals and where his parents and ancestors are buried, the government said Wednesday.

A controversial figure in Greek history, Constantine died in hospital late Tuesday night at the age of 82. Greece’s monarchy was definitively abolished in a referendum in 1974, and Constantine spent decades in exile before settling in his home country once more in his waning years.

Decisions on his funeral were announced by the office of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, who chaired a Wednesday morning ministerial meeting to discuss the details. The date and location of the funeral service were not immediately determined and will be decided on in collaboration with the former king’s family, the prime minister’s office said.

The government will be represented at the funeral by the culture minister, while “all protocol procedures will be followed for dignitaries from abroad who will attend the funeral,” the announcement said.

Few people in Greece have any nostalgia for the former royal family, but other European royals, many of whom are related to Constantine, are likely to attend his funeral.

His older sister is Sophia, wife of former King Juan Carlos I of Spain, while the Greek-born Prince Philip, the late husband of Britain’s late Queen Elizabeth II, was an uncle. Constantine was one of the godparents of Prince William, the heir to the British throne.

The family, which had ruled Greece from 1863 apart from a 12-year republican interlude during 1922-1935, was descended from Prince Christian, later Christian IX of Denmark, of the House of Schleswig-Holstein-Sonderburg-Glücksburg branch of the Danish ruling family.

Constantine’s wife, Anne-Marie, is the younger sister of Denmark’s Queen Margrethe. In a statement, the royal palace in Copenhagen said it was “with great sadness” that the queen had learned of Constantine’s death.

“The royal family’s thoughts are currently with H.M. Queen Anne-Marie and the entire Greek family,” the Danish palace said.

An Olympic sailing gold medalist, Constantine was hugely popular when he acceded to the throne in 1964 at the age of 23, but much of that support rapidly waned with his active involvement in the machinations that brought down the elected government of Prime Minister George Papandreou.

The episode involving the defection from the ruling party of several lawmakers destabilized the constitutional order and led to a military coup in 1967. Constantine eventually clashed with the military rulers and was forced into exile.

When the dictatorship collapsed in July 1974, Constantine was eager to return to Greece but was advised against it by veteran politician Constantine Karamanlis, who returned from exile to head a civilian government.

After his triumphal win in November elections, Karamanlis called for a plebiscite on the monarchy. Constantine was not allowed in the country to campaign, but the result was unambiguous and widely accepted: 69.2% voted in favor of a republic.

To his final days, Constantine, while accepting that Greece was now a republic, continued to style himself King of Greece and his children as princes and princesses even though Greece no longer recognized titles of nobility.

For most of his years in exile he lived in London and was said to be especially close to his second cousin, Charles, now King Charles III.

“The eventful course of former King Constantine marked and was marked by turbulent times in the country’s modern history,” Mitsotakis said in a statement. “By wounds that were however healed by the choices, the free conscience and the maturity of our people. But also by his own discreet, it is true, stance throughout the post-dictatorship years.”

Constantine’s death marked the “formal epilogue of a chapter that had definitively closed with the 1974 referendum,” Mitsotakis said, extending his condolences to the former king’s family. History, he said, “will judge the Constantine of public life fairly and strictly. Because the person Constantine is already accompanied by sadness and respect in the face of the loss of life itself.”

While it took Constantine 14 years to return to his country, briefly, to bury his mother, Queen Frederica, in 1981, he multiplied his visits thereafter and, from 2010, made his home in Greece.

There were continued disputes: In 1994, the then socialist government stripped him of his nationality and expropriated what remained of the royal family’s property. Constantine sued at the European Court of Human Rights and was awarded 12 million euros in 2002, a fraction of the 500 million he had sought.

Along with his wife, he is survived by five children, Alexia, Pavlos, Nikolaos, Theodora and Philippos, and nine grandchildren. [AP]

Source: ekathimerini.com

Passenger traffic this year at the Athens airport, which last year handled 22.7 million travelers, is expected to exceed the performance of 2019. That figure was up significantly, by 98.3%, compared to 2021, but still was 11.1% short of 2019.

This year, it could exceed 2019 levels, given that it is unlikely there will be any significant entry requirements as there were in the first few months of 2022, but also because the prospects for the course of tourism this year remain positive, despite uncertainty due to inflation and the war in Ukraine.

Moreover, on a monthly comparison basis, the shortfall in passenger numbers from 2019 is even smaller and is limited to a low single-digit percentage. That is, in December, compared to the same month of 2019, the total number of passengers served by the Eleftherios Venizelos Athens International Airport was only 3% smaller, at 1.6 million. Domestic passengers exceeded the levels of the last month of 2019 by 7.9% (501,200), while international passenger traffic decreased by 7.3%, exceeding 1 million people.

Overall, Athens International Airport’s passenger traffic last month increased by 84.1% compared to December 2021. Domestic passengers increased by 60.3% and international passengers by 98.3% year-on-year, but still lagged compared to 2019 by 4.7% and 13.9% respectively.

In 2022 Greece was one of the four countries – out of a total of 44 states monitored by the European organization for the safety of air navigation (Eurocontrol) – where flights increase from 2019, albeit marginally, by 1%.

The momentum of Greek tourism and Athens includes the launch of new routes by foreign carriers. Notably, Air China is expected on Tuesday to present, in a special event, its plans for the Greek market, having launched the Athens-Shanghai air connection on December 22, a flight that operates once a week. Undoubtedly, the decision of the airline, which along with China Eastern and China Southern makes up the aviation ecosystem of China, has coincided with the explosion of Covid cases there.

Source: ekathimerini.com

NYC is no stranger to ice rinks—especially this time of year! We’ve got tons scattered across the five boroughs, from the famous Rink at Rockefeller Center to the city’s only rooftop ice rink at The William Vale, but the Edge is taking ice skating one step further…or shall we say higher.

Beginning January 10th, New Yorkers will be able to glide across a 1,024-square-foot Glice® rink at Edge. The massive skating rink, known as ‘Sky Skate’ will be located in the indoor section of the Edge’s sky deck. Visitors will be able to skate across the skyline as the enormous glass windows will provide a panoramic view of the entire city.

The synthetic ice is made from zero-energy ecological Glice®, making Sky Skate the perfect activity for any weather!

Skaters can reserve 30-minute intervals on the rink everyday from 10am to 10pm. We recommend going around 4pm-5pm to catch an unparalleled view of the sunset!

Your ticket to Sky Skate includes skate rentals and access to the outdoor sky deck. So after working on your axel and toe loop jump  you’ll be able to cool off outside on the 1,131 foot deck that extends 65 feet out from 30 Hudson Yards. Walk across the glass floor if you dare and see NYC from 100 stories up. Want to go even higher? Climb the skyline steps at Edge and be positioned on the 101st floor!

To make the most out of your visit, don’t forget to stop for a drink and a bite to eat at the luxurious dining experience, Peak.

The 10,000-square-foot restaurant and bar is situated on the 100th floor serving up modern American cuisine. Grab a spot at the 45-seat cocktail bar and sip on drinks like the “Rhubarb Twist” with Champagne, Fresh Rhubarb Cordial or the “Gold Coast,” with Greenhook Ginsmiths Gin, ALB vodka, Lillet and Golden Olive.

Find out more info about your visit to Edge here.

Where: 30 Hudson Yards, New York

When: Beginning January 10th and everyday forward from 10am – 10pm

Source: secretnyc.co

International consultant group Resonance recently released their ranking of the best cities in the world–an annual tradition that our very own city finds itself a part of time and time again. And this year, NYC found itself as #3 on the list!

Though of course in our hearts NYC should’ve been #1, the third spot is still pretty good when you’re looking at 100 different cities all over the world!

Resonance bases their ranking on six core categories–place, programming, prosperity, product, people, and promotion.

Factors such as weather and safety, attractions and nightlife, restaurants, education, income equality, and culture are considered, and only cities of metropolitan areas with populations of more than one million are looked at.

For NYC’s rank at #3, they acknowledge that “after a hellish two years, few places on the planet were as ready to relaunch as NYC.”

The greatest city in America—lauded and crowned in our rankings for the past seven years and in countless others for many more—was a ghastly reminder during the pandemic of the vulnerability of even the colossal and seemingly all-powerful; we saw here what awaited the rest of the country. And the world. As early cases spiked, Gotham became the nation’s nightmarish coronavirus core.

They note that nearly 70 million people visited the city in 2019 and invested $46 billion across its expansive quilt of Sights & Landmarks (putting us at #13 on that global ranking), and NYC has done what it can post-pandemic to bring those people back to the city alongside apprehensive New Yorkers themselves.

According to Chris Heywood, former executive vice president, global communications at NYC & Company, “We’re anticipating being back to 85 percent of 2019 levels within the year. We have benchmarked 2024 to be back to previous record-setting numbers.”

Looks like 2023 is going to be our year!

As for what which cities beat us out? It was none other than London, England, and Paris, France! Though we’re not happy about being beaten out, we do know have friends across the pond in London and Paris who can help show just how wonderful those cities are!!!

Source: secretnyc.co

There were 291 investment projects with a total budget of 10.53 billion euros submitted for financing from the loan arm of the National Recovery and Resilience Plan ‘Greece 2.0’ within 2022, ANA reports.

Of this amount, 4.5 billion euros correspond to loans from the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RFF), 3.51 billion euros was capital from banks and 2.52 billion euros were funds put up by investors.

The investment plans submitted so far are in various stages of the process of receiving funding and concern many different economic sectors, from industry and retail to energy and services.

Source: tornosnews.gr

The largest number of approaches to Piraeus and Thessaloniki have an origin or destination ports of the two neighboring countries.

The ports of Turkey appear to be the best customers of the two largest Greek ports, Piraeus and Thessaloniki, according to the fourth edition of the sectoral study on the Greek Port Industry, GREPORT2022, edited by George K. Vangelas, Thanos A. Pallis and Evi Kladakis.

Looking at the direct connectivity based on the monthly calls of different ports before and after the ships call to the port of Piraeus and Thessaloniki in 2021, some particularly interesting conclusions emerge, among which the largest number of calls to both major Greek ports originate from, or have as a destination the port of a neighboring country, a fact that also shows the connection between Greek and Turkish ports.

Piraeus

In particular, the country’s largest port, Piraeus, connects monthly directly with 73 different ports, from 31 different countries, two more countries than in 2020. 16 countries were European, 9 Asian, 5 African, and one on the other side of the Atlantic. 28% of the calls had an origin or destination in a Turkish port, while Italy ranked second with 14% of the calls. 6% of the monthly approaches came from or had as a next destination in a Greek port.

Egypt and Singapore are included in the top five (6% of approaches). Piraeus is directly connected to some of the main ports – hubs in the global transport networks.

In particular, it is connected (origin – destination) with Singapore with 25 routes per month, Port Klang (Malaysia) with four connections and with the European ports of Rotterdam and Antwerp with 16 and 13 monthly connections respectively. The port with which it maintains more connections is that of Izmir, followed by Singapore, Limassol, Thessaloniki and Ambarli (Turkey).

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Thessaloniki

Looking at port connectivity, Thessaloniki is connected monthly directly to 12 countries and a total of 21 commercial ports. 31% of the approaches to the port of Thessaloniki come from or have a direction to a Turkish port. In second place is Greece with 30% of approaches, followed by Cyprus with 11%.

The top five include Egypt (8%) and Malta 6%. The most frequent port of connection with Thessaloniki is the port of Piraeus, as almost one in three approaches (28%) has a destination or originates from the country’s largest port.

The second most connected port is Limassol, with 9% of approaches coming from, or heading to, the largest port in Cyprus. In third place is Asyaport in Turkey (8% of approaches), while it is worth noting that nine ports in Turkey are connected to the port of Thessaloniki.

Based on the above data, Thessaloniki is a satellite port of key port hubs in the region (Piraeus, Asyaport) from which it is supplied with transit cargo and imports, and which it supplies either with transit cargo and exports.

Source: in.gr

NYC is home to an endless amount of restaurants to try. However, some places go above and beyond just mouthwatering fare to create jaw-dropping environments that tantalize more than your taste.

From dramatic pendants suspended in the air to floor-to-ceiling glass windows, we have put together a collection of the most beautiful restaurants in NYC.

1. Thai Villa, Flatiron

Not only does Thai Villa serve some of the best Thai cuisine you can find in the city, but it’s interior is absolutely show-stopping. From gorgeous hanging lanterns to sparkling, ornate decor, you’ll enjoy the perfect ambiance to pair with your delicious dishes. The space has two levels of dining (both equally as gorgeous) and a backlit bar that invites you to sip on one of their uniquely crafted cocktails. Make your reservation on their website here.

Where: 5 E 19th St, New York

2. One if by Land, Two if by Sea, Greenwich Village

Leave your Sundays open for One if by Land, Two if by Sea’s enchanting jazz brunch. Located in a historical carriage house in the Village, you can’t miss out on dreamy music with a mimosa in hand. The gorgeous venue is bathed in candlelight with a stunning baby grand piano, brick fireplace, and a private garden. Book your reservations today.

Where: 17 Barrow St, New York

3. 1803, Tribeca

Transport to New Orleans at this lively restaurant sure to lift your spirits! With vibrant colors and eye-catching patterns decorating the entire space, you’ll forget you’re even in NYC. 1803 serves up Cajun-Creole cuisine like no one else with their Shrimp & Grits, Gumbo, Niçoise Salad, Jambalaya and more. Perfect for brunch, lunch, and dinner, the space even hosts live jazz. See more on their website here.

Where: 82 Reade St, New York

4. Temple Court, FiDi

Tucked inside the luxurious Beekman Hotel, Temple Court comes from American chef and restauranteur, Tom Colicchio. The entire space is gorgeously wrapped in stained-glass windows. Experience fine dining inside this historic space and make sure to check out the bar room for an after dinner drink! See more here.

Where: 5 Beekman St, New York

5. Lamia’s Fish Market, East Village

Immerse yourself in an underwater oasis at this East Village gem. Find curving booths in blue velvet line the walls and beautiful nautical-themed murals and decor decorate the unassumingly large venue. Indulge in their fish-forward menu that will whisk you away to the breezy oceanside. More details here.

Where: 47 Avenue B, New York

6. Tavern on the Green, Central Park

NYC legend, Tavern on the Green has a reputation for its elegant fare, spectacular location, and of course, its dreamy design. Featuring a beautiful garden and courtyard seating during the warmer months, the interior is just as breathtaking. Bask in the sun with their floor-to-ceiling glass windows and look out onto Central Park.

Where: W 67th St, New York

7. Le Coucou, SoHo

French fare with a gorgeous atmosphere, oui oui! Beyond having one of the most beautiful bars in NYC, Le Coucou honors European gastronomy by bringing a piece of Paris to NYC. Coming from internationally acclaimed Chef Daniel Rose, savor everything on the menu from the Foie gras poché au Sauternes to the Canette a l’Orange. Find out more on their website.

Where: 138 Lafayette St, New York

8. Grand Banks, Tribeca

This floating oyster bar is one of the city’s most unique restaurants with one of the best waterfront dining destinations around. Located on the Tribeca waterfront, Grand Banks seats their guests aboard the historic deck of a wooden fishing boat. From oysters to caviar, you’ll be sure to taste the freshest fruits de mer gathered sustainably from the East & West coasts. *Seasonal hours

Where: Pier 25 Hudson River Park, New York

9. Peak, Hudson Yards

Dine in the sky at Hudson Yards’ restaurant Peak. This fine establishment boasts stunning 360° skyline views that will have your jaw drop to the floor. The 10,000-square-foot restaurant is 101 floors above and a definite must-visit.

Where: 30 Hudson Yards 101st floor, New York

10. River Cafe, DUMBO

You know you’re in for a stunning view when you dine at the River Cafe. Situated right on the East River, admire the glittering skyline and Brooklyn Bridge from your table. The Michelin Star restaurant offers elevated fare from Scallop Ceviche to Wagyu Steak Tartare. For those with a sweet tooth, make sure to try Blandy’s Madeira Dessert Flight and indulge in a variety of petit sweets. See more here.

Where: 1 Water St, Brooklyn

11. Aurora Ristorante, Williamsburg

Aurora Ristorante is a green oasis tucked away in Williamsburg. Enjoy their rustic atmosphere with wood finishings, or dine out in their heated garden and be surrounded by blossoming plants and glittering fairy lights. Make your reservation here.

Where: 70 Grand St, Brooklyn

12. Cathédrale, East Village

Located inside the Moxy East Village, Cathédrale is a French-Mediterranean fusion spot that’s design is as elegant as its food. Be blown away by its dreamy and dimly lit dining room that goes as far back as the eye can see. With seemingly endless ceilings and an outdoor dining terrace, it’s no surprise that this restaurant made it on our list. See more here.

Where: 112 E 11th St, New York

13. Grand Central Oyster Bar, Midtown

This NYC landmark is a gorgeous piece of history that’s been serving from an enormous menu of seafood specialities since 1913. Known as the oldest restaurant in Grand Central, you’ll sit beneath the charming curved ceilings as you choose from 25 types of fish and 30 varieties of oysters. They previously closed down operations at the start of the pandemic but they have been back in business since September 2021.

Where: 89 E 42nd St, New York

14. Buddha-Bar, Tribeca

Also found in major cities like Dubai, London, & Prague, Buddha-Bar opened a NYC location last year. The space is ornately decorated with dramatic pendant lights, custom furnishings and a 16-foot glass-hewn Buddha sculpture that steals the show. The menu features Asian fusion dishes and is helmed by Executive Chef Andrew Riccatelli, Food Network’s Chopped Champion.

Where: 62 Thomas St, New York

15. Le Crocodile, Williamsburg

You can find this airy, neighborhood brasserie inside the Wythe Hotel. The space is inspired by Chef Partners Jake Leiber and Aidan O’Neal “Parisian and New York favorites.” Book a table for brunch, lunch or dinner and admire the chic design from their tiled floors to their charming bar. More details here.

Where: 80 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn

16. Casa Ora, East Williamsburg

Casa Ora is a beautiful gem that’s an immediate breath of fresh air. Step inside to see vibrant works of art cover the wall, blooming greenery at every corner, and glowing candlelight. Diners can enjoy Venezuelan plates for an intimate culinary experience. See more here.

Where: 148 Meserole St, Brooklyn

17. Veranda, SoHo

This trendy spot tucked off of Grand offers four unique spaces, all impeccably designed. From arched wood ceilings, luxuriously plush seating and even a skylight, each space is uniquely curated for a separate experience. You’ll even be able to dine under the stars beneath their restaurants retractable glass roof. Book a table here.

Where: 23 Grand St, New York

18. Fandi Mata, Williamsburg

Go on a blissful escape to to the Mediterranean at Fandi Mata in Williamsburg. Take in the gorgeous space filled with plants and patterns and make sure to snap your photo on their iconic bright blue staircase. Going for “industrial-chic,” this lively spot is a perfect place to take friends or family. More info here.

Where: 74 Bayard St, Brooklyn

19. Kumi New York, Midtown

Coming straight from Vegas, Kumi New York has made permanent residency on 57th Street inside Le Meridien. Their elevated plating is stunning enough, but it doesn’t stop there. Striking colors, mirrors and tiles open up the venue for an atmosphere that’s truly dazzling. See here.

Where: 120 W. 57th Street, New York

20. Bar Cicchetti, Chelsea

Celebrity Chef Fabio Viviani has just opened an exciting new Italian restaurant right here in NYC. Beyond their mouthwatering dishes from grilled octopus to pillowy pizzas, the space is absolutely enthralling with its art deco-inspired design featuring “warm jewel-tones, dark wood, brass and chrome finishes, rich rugs, and velvet texture.” Book here.

Where: 113 W 24th St, New York

Source: secretnyc.co

Confetti aftermath from last night in Times Square.  Happy New Year everyone! 
: instagram.com/mingomatic/

Major projects worth more than 3 billion euros – without taking into account the indirect fiscal benefit of major interventions – have been launched or are on the starting line for 2023 in Attica.

They are expected to further change not only the face of Athens but also the entire region, upgrading areas that had been allowed to become dilapidated as well as raising already developed areas to new levels. Projects such as the government park at the site of the old PYRKAL factory, the double redevelopment of the Panathinaikos and Votanikos stadiums, and the regeneration of Elaionas will shape new spatial dynamics in the urban fabric of the capital, decongesting the center of Athens.

At the same time, major hospitality projects, such as the emergence of the Athens Hilton hotel as a new integrated hospitality destination with extensive supporting entertainment activities, or the development of iconic hotels on the beachfront of the Athens Riviera, such as One & Only Asteria Complex at Glyfada, and two new ultra-luxury hotels in Elliniko under the brand of large prestigious international chains, will be added to the already distinguished large hotels of Athens, upgrading the capital as an international destination and further strengthening the local economy.

For instance, Vouliagmeni, in southern Attica, features developments that meet the strong demand for high-yielding luxury residential properties, with the Athens Riviera leading the transactions. Asteras Vouliagmenis is a magnet for high-value deals, with revenues from the sales of 13 villas on part of the peninsula exceeding €500 million.

In another example, procedures for the Saronida Olympos Golf Project are expected to mature further in 2023. The project provides for the development of a hotel complex, holiday homes and golf course on an area of 6 square kilometers at Saronida, southern Attica, with a budget of €840 million.

None of these projects comes without any major challenges and obstacles. However, their potential is such that these obstacles won’t thwart them, according to the market and their investors who are committed to their implementation.

Source: ekathimerini.com

The Winter Jam is a festival full of winter activities for all ages that takes place in Central Park every year. It’s totally FREE and the perfect event to enjoy NYC during the winter season. And fortunately, this year’s festival is back on after last year’s cancellation.

The epic event is slated to happen on Saturday, February 4, so mark your calendars.

Presented by NYC Parks, Olympic Regional Development Authority, I Love NY, and I Ski NY, a snowfield is blown by Gore Mountain in the morning at Central Park’s Rumsey Playfield, and all day New Yorkers can try their hand at skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and more.

In years past, New Yorkers even got to experience some other fantastically frosty activities such as:

• Sledding
• Curling
• Ice Bowling
• Snowplay
• Dodgeball
• Flag Football
• Puppet Making
• Activities with the New York Public Library
• Bobsled Photo Op
• Snowcat Photo Op

And after all the fun you’ll be having, you can enjoy food and drinks available for purchase onsite to warm you up!

NYC Parks shared on their website that a waiver must be signed for those participating in the following: Sledding, Snowshoeing, Dodgeball, Flag Football, Curling, and Bowling.

The event is happening rain or shine so don’t forget to dust off your snow pants and lace up your boots!

Source: secretnyc.co

 Jerome Kaluta and his Big Band set the mood at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center (snfcc.org) on the southern coast of Athens with an uplifting set of soul and funk, starting at 10.30 p.m. at the Agora venue, followed by a big fireworks display to usher in 2023 with a bang. And that’s not all: The New Year will also be marked with the SNFCC’s annual First Run, while DJ Beppe Loda will get the party started again at the Agora. In the meantime, the ice-skating rink will be open to revelers until 2 a.m. and the dancing fountains will be doing their thing in full ceremonial regalia. All of the events are free of charge.

Source: ekathimerini.com