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Home »News Catch up with whats been happening in Lindos NEWSLETTER ISSUE 10 FEBRUARY 2010Well it's been an eventful and exciting month and every day we get closer to hot sunny days and balmy nights in Lindos. We hope that you had a romantic Valentine's weekend and if you're still looking for love, then why not start an affair with Lindos - guaranteed to be hot and keep you coming back for more!
Last weekend was one of merriment, fun and laughter as adults and children turned out in spectacular fancy dress for Carnival celebrations in every town and village across Rhodes. In Greece the Carnival started in Ancient times, believed to be as a worship to Dionysos, the God of Food and Wine. In the Orthodox tradition, Carnival is known as Apokries and is the preparation period before Lent. Apokries literally means 'from meat' and the Latin 'Carne Vale' has the same etymology, literally saying goodbye to meat.The day after the Sunday carnival parades is known as 'Clean Monday', or 'Kathara Deftera', which marks the start of Lent and is a bank holiday in Greece. No meat, fish, eggs, dairy products or oil are eaten, although fish from the sea without a backbone (octopus and shellfish) are allowed. It is traditionally a day for kite-flying, family picnics,music, dancing and celebration (oh and the odd beer, wine and ouzo of course!).
As they say, 'When in Rhodes ... ' I added these traditions to my latest 'To Do' list as I keenly embraced the local culture. On Clean Monday I ventured to the nearby town of Archangelos, which I had been warned, was not for the faint hearted. What can only be described as the biggest street party I had seen since I came to Rhodes, where every generation of Greek turned out to celebrate in his or her own special way. With speakers and amplifiers at every street corner, you could not fail to get into the rhythm of the music and dance your way from bar to bar. Tables and chairs spilled out onto the road as the local tavernas doubled or even trebled their floor space. Cars and trucks which would even get turned away from the breakers yard in the UK, were decorated and adorned with partygoers - normally dancing on the roof! However, the ultimate tradition and one you cannot escape, was the blackening of faces with paint, charcoal or boot polish! As the sun went down, the streets were wall to wall with dancing black faces, lit only by their sparkling eyes and white teeth! I wasn't sure whether I should be applying for a job as a chimney sweep or auditioning for a part in (for those that are old enough to remember!), the Black and White Minstrel Show. All in all, a great time had by all and thanks to the locals for showing us how to party!
Venues for parties, incentive breaks and conferences
Now I promise, we have been busy too, making sure that we keep up with the demand of different types of accommodation for your holiday in Lindos. Our free venue finding service for wedding receptions has also proved popular and this of course extends to any reason to party or celebrate.
Perhaps you can even persuade your boss that Lindos would be a great place for an incentive break too. And if you are 'the boss' reading this, then contact us to find out about our luxury villas or hotels where you can treat your staff. Need to justify the expense or just looking for an alternative venue than your current boardroom or uninspiring city conference hotel, then we can also organise meetings, conferences, training and business coaching in the sunshine.
NEW ACCOMMODATION RECENTLY ADDED OR COMING SOON
Anthi Maria Studios and Apartments, Pefkos
These fantastic studios and apartments are situated on their own small beach in Pefkos. A perfect location for those who like to step out onto their balcony and soak up the endless views of the Aegean every morning.
For those who prefer the pool to the sea, then guests have free use of the nearby pool at the Matina Hotel. Easy to get into Lindos either by boat, taxi or local bus, these studios will give you the best of both worlds. With prices starting from 10 GBP pppn, these studios are already filling up fast!
Aquagrand 5 Star Deluxe Hotel
We are very excited to bring you this brand new deluxe hotelsituated right on the beachfront in Navarone Bay, where the views of the Aegean are breathtaking. Tastefully furnished with a blend of contemporary chic and using materials to blend in with the Lindos landscape, the hotel's design is synonymous with a feeling and vision of grandeur, luxury, quality, charm and calm.
The hotel has all the amenities you would expect from a 5 star hotel including 3 swimming pools, 4 restaurants, 3 bars and the Aquasense Spa for a spot of pampering.
Wonderful waterfront rooms with private pools are what luxury holidays are all about! The Queens suite is just that - fit for royalty and the deluxe rooms start at just 60 Euros per person per night including a magnificent buffet breakfast.
Perfect for wedding receptions with the gourmet restaurant and waterfront ouzerie as stunning locations, combined with exceptional service.
Book before end of March and receive 10% discount!
TREAT YOURSELF, BECAUSE YOU'RE WORTH IT!
It's coming up to your holiday and you are writing lists upon lists of things that you need to do! Book time off work, find someone to look after the cats and dogs and to water the plants, cancel the newspapers, update your summer wardrobe, buy suntan lotion and empty Boots of their 3 for 2 toiletries promotions, go on a diet, organise transport to the airport and the list goes on! Not to mention getting through your 'in-tray/inbox' at work at a speed that is synonymous with the pre-holiday rush (if only you could be that productive every day!). Phew... you definitely need a holiday now!
So, if you're anything like me, you still haven't managed to fit in that all important pedicure and manicure. Your shoulders and neck are so tense, you think they might snap - what you would give for a relaxation massage. Well, stop... take a big deep breath and relax ..... tick these off your list right now. We will make your appointment for you at the Lindos Spa for when you arrive in resort. Arranged at a time to suit you, this is the best possible start for your holiday or wedding in Lindos. Email for details and to book now and you just pay the Spa direct when you arrive.
This Month's Lindos Spotlight - George Eleftheriou
Born in the village in 1950, George Eleftheriou grew up in Lindos and went on to marry his wife Stella and to have 6 children, with 2 grandchildren and another on the way. On one cold winter morning, our roving reporter, Melanie, managed to chat to him in the Lindos Rent a Car office, for this month's Lindos spotlight interview. Having chased him down the street and got him to sit still for a few moments, it was apparent that his high energy was one of the driving forces behind his success as a local entrepreneur. His long list of successful businesses include shops, restaurants, hotel and apartments and a car rental agency which he fits in between his duties as Deputy Mayor at the Lindos council.
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Growing up in Lindos in the 50s and 60s must hold some wonderful childhood memories for you George? What do you remember most?
I grew up in a wonderful village at a time when great change was taking place. My father was a village farmer and he kept cows. We used to milk the cows, make our own butter and yoghurt and then my father would get on the local public bus and visit all the surrounding villages to sell our products. They were charmed times and memories of a very happy childhood.
Can you remember the first tourists coming to Lindos?
Yes I was 4 years old. Every Wednesday a few taxis would pull into the Main Square and drop off day trippers. After that it just grew and grew
You are a very successful businessman George, how did it all begin?
My father had the kiosk in the Main Square which sold soft drinks and ice creams. This was run by him and my mother whilst I was serving in the Navy. When I finished my service I returned to Lindos and started my Rent a Car business from that same kiosk. I then opened an office in the village, followed by our Lindos Restaurant and then apartments, Stella Hotel, shops and other property followed over the years. The whole family including my wife, children and their spouses are involves in the businesses.
You have seen many changes over the years, but what Greek traditions are you keen to uphold?
Family values and the importance of strong family units.
Well you are clearly a family man George. What values do you want to pass on to your children and grandchildren
Compassion and respect of others
With such a busy lifestyle, do you get time for a holiday as a family?
2 years ago, we all went to Italy. Of course our holidays have to be taken in the winter months. In the summer we are looking after people here on holiday.
I am guessing you don't have time for any hobbies?
I love fishing, hunting and always make time for my Church and the Greek Orthodox Religtion (not to mention my favourite time of day - the afternoon siesta!)
What are your hopes for Lindos in the future?
My hope for Lindos, is that it can be returned to its original glory. I believe that all the houses should be returned to villa status, and upgraded to a high standard. This will mean a lot of money being spent and we are hoping for help from the EU.
Lindos has welcomed many celebrities over the years, what is your claim to fame?
So many to mention - but to name a few - Pink Floyd, Dave Gilmour, the late Rick Wright and of course the wonderful Astrologer, the late Patrick Walker. For a wonderful space of time, they were part of 'Lindian Life'.
What would you say has been the happiest time of your life? Definitely my wedding day to my wife Stella, and the arrival of all my children and grandchildren.
George, are you superstitious?
Not really, but I am a strong believer in dreams
We would like to thank George for taking the time to chat to us and I am sure we can all take something from his great insights. So if you are dreaming about your next summer holiday in Lindos, or maybe something much bigger, remember that most successful outcomes started with just a dream. It's time, I believe, for some action... Warm sunny regards from Lindos .... Karen & Melanie
www.exclusivelylindos.com info@exclusivelylindos.com Tel:- 08456 527 127 or +30 694 290 6624