Eleni Sent Me : Finest Travel Recommendations

La Selini…Paros footsteps to Hospitality

Eleni — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 10:57:21 +0000

A beautiful quiet get away

Welcome!

Quiet inviting comfort...

La Selini is a small quaint little Greek Holiday Home away from Home…17 Rooms and Studios to be exact which are literally footsteps to the beach in Parikia Paros. There are many hotelsRooms, Studios on this Island and the competiveness for each free spirited traveller’s attention is extremely fierce. As you step off the boat, you are flashed by countless little board signs and each representative proclaims that you will get the best price. let the haggling begin! That may be true…but what the traveller does not know is that with that price there is the risk that their experience and level of customer service will be minimal and may even be non existent. When hotels take your vacation money without giving you the experience of hospitality and appreciation, a beautiful trip becomes deposited with a film of resentment that reminds you to never return and never ever recommend that particular hotel. At La selini you are never in danger of that film. The only experience you will have is of being taken care of with an open heart by Canadian hotel owner Louann Askin. She truly wants to provide you with more value than you expected for your stay at La Selini. Louann strives to give you the best experience possible and if you dont believe me, check Trip Advisor, La Selini has been ranked number 1 out of 45 specialty hotels in Paros. To earn that accolade guests which Louann affectionately calls “clients” have written about their stays at La Selini and all have one thread woven throughout them…deep appreciation and gratitude for being taken care of. I can understand why Louann calls her guests clients, they are first and foremost guests but the word client is Louann’s agreement that she will provide you with the best service possible and if you are not having that, will strive to see where she can transform that and that will translate into continual development and upgrading of her customer service skills. The hotel is also available to be booked completely for large groups, family reunions, weddings, business or just groups of friends wanting to travel together. Recently there was a group of 10 young women staying at the hotel from the city of Korinth and as they left, each hugged Louann warmly before leaving and thanked her personally. Hospitality and Greek spirit shine from La Selini with a Canadian wink that will make you smile and feel honored everytime you choose to stay in this little hotel. It’s welcoming heart and Louann’s amazing customer service skills will help you to find the footsteps to the quiet beauty of Paros and have you whispering thank you for sending me Eleni…

For booking information and further enquiries contact me at elenisentmetours@gmail.com

La Selini website is: www.LaSelini.com

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La Selini…Paros footsteps to Hospitality

Kosmima Jewelery Journey

Eleni — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 17:12:31 +0000

In 2004 during the Olympics in Greece I discovered Kosmima Jewelery and an appreciation for symbolic pieces of Jewelery. I never have bought a piece of jewelery since then that did not hold some kind of symbolic meaning for me. My children have chosen pieces and every piece’s origin is carefully committed to my memory after a very thorough explanation by my dear friend Antonis Liontakis, an experienced Gemologist who takes his time to express each jewelery item’s significance. For example, my favorite pieces are by Gerochristos who Antonis introduced me to. Beautiful intricate handcrafted earrings, bracelets, rings, pendants and crosses. Each of my sisters, personal friends and my beautiful daughter Elina have received individual crosses that reflect their beautiful spirits. Many Journeys and many memories embedded in the gift of Kosmima Jewelery. This artist Gerohristos, is creative and was first inspired by his religion and this prompted him to create tessellated Byzantine icons and other objects using wood, glass, and stone. Their essence sprang to fruition and his strong artistic nature vividly captured the experience of centuries of Byzantine art from the Constantine and Helen Era. Read more about this fascinating artist and his family’s history at Kosmima’s official website www.artkosmima.gr These jewels are made of 925 Silver and 750 Gold and decorated with semiprecious stones like Tourmalines, Garnets, mother of pearls, rubies, aquamarine, turquoise and pearls. There are over 2000 designs and all the jewels are sealed with the official codes of the Greek State. Harmony and exquisite quality are two of the most important trademarks that Gerohristos jewelery possesses. Their mission is for their jewelery to bring beauty, peace and tranquility to people’s lives. They are sold all over Greece and in many European countries, Australia and the USA. Together with his business partner Matina Sakka they will help you to select distinct pieces from their store that will seal your journey’s end with a jewelery memory destined to become an heirloom piece whether it is a small bracelet or a strong statement piece as my incredible sister Athena would advocate for. Visit their store and you will understand why Eleni Sent You and if you can’t make it then visit their site and select from their selection and they will ship your jewlery worldwide. The site is very well designed and you are able to see the details and workmanship from all angles so there are no surprises. Everything is guaranteed and Antonis and Matina stand by their creations so that you are always left feeling completely taken care with their service and their support in providing you with clear answers about the quality and artists.

When ordering make sure that you mention Eleni Sent You and you will receive a discounted quote to thank you for your consideration and selection. A perfect and easy way to find the gift for the one that you give to out of love, appreciation, adoration or just simply because you honor who they are…

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Kosmima Jewelery Journey

Attalos Hotel an Athenian Classic

Eleni — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 13:15:30 +0000

Every year I have come to Athens from Canada, the Attalos Hotel is like visiting family. It is a family run business that is reminiscent of classic Athens. It is an older hotel in the Monastiraki district on the once famous Athinas Street. It is a little doorway that protrudes with pride on a street bustling with a myriad of quaint little stores intertwined with Kiosks and home hardwares. The Attalos has the integrity of it’s name and family which has sustained it, developed it and has made it a well loved popular little hotel in Athens. It is always filled to the brim with International visitors and Tour groups. It is no surprise because it has built it’s reputation all on it’s own merit. There is a rooftop Terrace coffee and bar where you can unwind after a day of exploring Athens and really just breathe and fully be present to the wonder of the beautifully lit Parthenon on the Acropolis. Some rooms also have balconies where you can also see the Parthenon from. Included is a simple but very delicious Breakfast served Buffet style with a variety of breakfast items that are fresh and constantly supervised to ensure that guests are not left scrambling with the last remains of the breakfast rush. There is an Internet lounge that is a blend of contemporary lime furniture splashes with a backdrop wall mural of the Attalos Roof top. It is funky and a stark contrast to the simple, very clean but heartwarming rooms. Now factor in well trained friendly, knowledgeable staff that really do care that you have a great experience and who contribute with a rare generosity and you will not regret staying in this charming, loveable hotel centrally located by the Metro and Monastiraki shops and restaurants. Whether you are here to explore Athens for a day or a couple of weeks and you want to feel at home, taken care of, and appreciated then the Attalos Hotel is the perfect place to be and when your friends ask where you stayed in Athens you can tell them Eleni Sent You to the Attalos Hotel and they can come too! After staying at the Attalos Hotel, the hospitality makes you want to return every single time.

: The Attalos Hotel

For bookings and further enquiries please email me at elenisentmetours@gmail.com.

This is an article from Eleni Sent Me : Finest Travel Recommendations.

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Attalos Hotel an Athenian Classic

Peaceful Tranquility rooted in Ancient Paros

Eleni — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 09:43:35 +0000

Across the Delion Sanctuary there lies a cluster of homes overlooking the Port of Paros with a view that literally takes your breath away and as you finally inhale, the beauty of the Ancient landscape humbles your senses and the silence swirls around your being creating the most delicious tranquility for you to bask in. Imagine living in a place like that… Well you can! This beautiful property belongs to Bryan Muthwill and it is situated on craggy, mountainous point with the Delion Sanctuary right above it. It is known that Ancient Greeks built their structures on sacred places that lay on energy fields whose magnetic qualities helped to bring them closer to the Gods…Anyways…This Villa lies on a vast property lovingly tended to by Bryan whose sheer determination and loving faith will support his fledgling trees and plants to continue to bloom and grow in the aridness and inflexibility of the earth. Stonework, shaped into arches, cascading steps that lead to the roof…which I highly recommend to view the stars at night, has you in awe of the simplicity of the sugarcube like house as it’s molded spaces reflect the fluid lines of the ocean and sky. Spacious, comfortable for a couple, family or a group of friends the home is graced with a beautiful pool that you can cling to the edge and watch the sunset dance across the horizon. It is available for rent on the beautiful island of Paros and after spending time in this Villa you will be so relaxed and filled with gratitude and you definitely will be saying Eleni Sent Me….

Email elenisentmtours@gmail.com for further enquiries, availability and booking.

This is an article from Eleni Sent Me : Finest Travel Recommendations.

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Peaceful Tranquility rooted in Ancient Paros

PAROS…Central Market Street Parikia

Eleni — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 19:36:02 +0000

It is very quiet and as I walk down the winding little streets of the Central street I am captivated by a purple little shop…of course! purple is my favorite color. It is a small shop that has silver jewelery, popular art and handmade gifts. I am mesmerized by the little goat bells strung underneath an arch in the store like a string of Christmas lights proclaiming good luck and health. There are many unique pieces here and I am drawn to some chunky necklaces made of “white silver” or “German silver” They have unusual designs crafted with ancient symbols that highlight contemporary and outstanding strength in a character setting. My sister would say that some of these pieces are statement pieces. Cuff bracelets and these strong necklaces are items that are not your usual tourist purchase. Anastasios, the owner is very knowledgable and also very honest about his merchandise. There are items from Turkey, beautiful handcrafted bowls and I like the way he does not hesitate to tell me of their true origin rather than making up something…which can happen if someone wants to badly sell you something. My necklace is a pretty arrangement of flouria…coins that meet together and create a flow showing off their abundance… I like the strength and ancient feel. My recommendation… make sure that you search out the lilac doorway and come in to find your gift, or lucky token, or your statement piece and you will never forget Paros…because a piece of it will be with you from this shop. Say Hello to Anastasios and tell him Eleni Sent You!

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PAROS…Central Market Street Parikia

I have an Idea…Cafe Bar Restaurant

Eleni — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 19:31:03 +0000

I have an idea! What an interesting name for a cafe bar. This little Cafe Bar is also an Internet Cafe and it has provided me with an instant office when I was in a time crunch. It is a central meeting place across from the Ekatopiliani church which means on Hundred doors. The staff here are very friendly, Laura from England and Niko are hospitable serving guests with their infectious smiles and easy demeanour. Relaxing with friends, a chaste little hideaway for lovestruck couples and yet comfortable for families needing a pretty atmosphere to connect and breathe after a hectic day at the beach. Being a coffee lover, of course I recommend their Frappe which is balanced, not too strong and not too watery with the right blend of milk. I just had this fruit salad extravaganza of layered fresh fruit swirled with a hint of honey all sitting on a mound of yogurt thick enough to cut with a knife…This was a good Idea and if you want to experience a good Idea make sure you tell them that Eleni sent you!

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I have an Idea…Cafe Bar Restaurant

Yiannoulis Taverna a little hidden gem…

Eleni — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 12:56:11 +0000

Rushing today, trying to scan and capture Paro’s charm…Imagine, I almost walked by in my mission by this sweet small tavern. What made me stop was that it was filled with Greek people and tourists eating homemade dishes that smelled exactly like my Mothers’s cooking. Yiorgos the owner asked me if my name was Yannoulis, the name of the Taveto rn. He is charming and invited me in for an Ouzo. I am not a drinker but he was so insistent that I thought he may become insulted! When a Greek offers to “Kerasi you” you have to accept because in the acceptance he or she gains a personal acknowledgement and joy that can not be translated in english. It is a heart opening to welcome you and no matter what the surroundings are there is a compelling and heartwarming feeling that sticks to you. So here I am eating homemade savory sousoukakia (oblong meatballs stuffed with herbs and smothered in freshmade tomato sauce and of course my beloved Horta (Greens) drizzled with olive oil. And I have succumbed to a few sips of Ouzo which to tell you the truth sitting under this little tucked away terrace at the back of the Tavern I have embraced. They are the tingle that unite the flavours of the simplicity of traditional foods served with Xapa…happiness and zest. What more could you want? and the prices are reasonable, so if you are in Paros and want a simple meal with pathos…passion served with lots of heart and smiles, come on by and tell them Eleni Sent You!

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Yiannoulis Taverna a little hidden gem…

Remezzo Cafe Bar

Eleni — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 11:47:22 +0000

Walking along the portside of Paros you will find many quaint, ordinary, extraordinary and eclectic restaurants, and many little seaside Cafe Bars. And of course you the tourist are the star! As you strut along this seemingly endless strip you may become overwhelmed. However there is one little new Cafe Bar that will surprise you. Especially if you are Canadian! Remezzo Bar owned by Murray Woodroffe from Toronto. A retirement dream led him to be courageous and entrepenurial in trekking to Paros to open up Remezzo Bar. The bright setting sun emblazoned with the starkness of our beautiful Maple Leaf makes you want to sing the National Anthem as soon as you see his sign, beautifully designed by an equally passionate Irish artist who is beautifying Paros with his artwork. Passion and vision infused with Canadian politeness and hospitality is what has Murray pursue his vision. Along with the amazing Irma, he single handley runs his bar and although he has limited Greek, communication can seem frustrating but Murray takes it in stride, listening and trying to accommodate requests while noting what he will do next time. On August 15th patrons waited with graciousness as Murray grazed each table taking orders, and people smiled at his eagerness to serve them as fast as he possibly could. Every Tuesday Remezzo serves food at dinner prepared lovingly by Irma who is a creative and talented cook. I honestly thought I was in Malaysia as I savoured each bite of her Malaysian Chicken Malaca dinner which for 9 euros included a glass of white wine, Thai rice, and a light exotic salad with thinly sliced cabbage, carrots, mixed with raisins and topped with sprinkle of Cardamom. Truly an experience that made me eat so slowly because each flavour beckoned to be appreciated and I could not refuse…after that Murray graced us with an ekpliksi… surprise a stunning strawberry Granita floating daintily in wine sprinkled with fresh mint signaled the end of my meal with a lyrical dance of coolness that cleansed and thanked my palate for engaging in Remezzo’s food experience…I would say…Do whatever it takes and free up your Tuesday before you leave Paros to visit Murray, enjoy Canadian hospitality merged with Greek filotimo and make sure you tell him that Eleni Sent You!

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Remezzo Cafe Bar

Republic Cafe-Bar Paroikia Paros Greece

Eleni — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 10:35:34 +0000

Having a Frappe at a beautiful seaside Cafe Bar…Republic. Smooth creamy Frappe harmonizes with the contemporary and lush lounge like outdoor setting. It is a pretty place to have a coffee, drink, light meal or snack. Sit in the outdoor lounge or idle your time away relaxing by the seaside across the Cafe. The scenery and refreshing breeze will have you smile and say I am glad Eleni Sent Me!

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Republic Cafe-Bar Paroikia Paros Greece

Weeds and Roots

Eleni — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 06:38:25 +0000

Sometimes when all we see are weeds we forget that hidden amongst them are precious roots that are not dormant. Greece may appear to the world ridden with weeds but all I feel and see are the roots that have sustained this Ancient civilization in every moment and every travel experience I have here. This summer marks a year to the date of my accident in Santorini. It has been a challenging year and I feel like Greece having ridden a roller coaster of turmoil and yet here I am again in entirely different circumstances and ready to be part of a world I love and adore, my Greek world. This is a time of rebuilding for Greece and there can be no growth without first seeing which parts…the weeds that have strangled the country’s soul are finally acknowledged. The uprooting is vast and it will take a long time. Below the surface it is the roots the world does not see that endure and will continue to sustain it’s people. Time heals and spirit rebuilds. If you are travelling this summer in Greece, remember weeds grow everywhere and wherever you may venture look past them to see the roots and I promise you will see the true spirit of Greece. Tell it that Eleni sent you… I am looking forward to writing daily as long as I can seek out consistent internet connection!
Kalo Taxithi Travellers!

Greek Day 2010

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Weeds and Roots