The Balkan Jewel Resort - an all year round resort in Bansko, Razlog, Bulgaria

The Balkan Jewel Resort is a 4-star deluxe complex in the Razlog valley, surrounded by Bulgaria’s three most beautiful mountains – Pirin, Rila and the Rhodopes. The resort is conveniently located close to Bansko – Bulgaria’s number one ski resort.

Located in the foothills of the majestic Pirin Mountain, overlooking the Pirin Golf Course (an 18-hole golf course of the highest standards, endorsed by Ian Woosnam), the Balkan Jewel Resort is an ideal destination for adventure holidays, family vacations, group and corporate events, as well as nature lovers, seeking peace and tranquility.

The Complex comprises of 160 spacious apartments finished to high standards, including parquet flooring, underfloor heating, fireplaces, fully fitted kitchen inclusive of appliances and furniture which is of high quality.

Complementing the Complex there are various amenities including a Reception, Lobby Bar, Restaurant , Fitness and Spa center, Ski Rooms and Laundry, Children’s Outdoor and Indoor playing area, Indoor Games Room, Swimming Pool, Conference Centre. All common parts are wheelchair accessible.

Whether you are looking for an active holiday, adventures, relaxation, family vacation or facilities for business events, Balkan Jewel Resort is the place to visit!
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A short trip to Berlin

A few months back I was in Berlin on a short business trip. Although my stay didn’t last long, it was a trip to remember. The capital of Germany welcomed me with sunshine and mild weather, a positive omen from the very first moment I spent there!

Due to my limited time I couldn’t go sightseeing and since my flight was late at night, I had booked in advance a hotel close to the airport (almost on the road across), fairly new and with affordable prices. The room was clean and comfortable and I truly enjoyed the time I spent there.

Next to the hotel is the local train station making it easy to move back and forth to Berlin. I am not accustomed to travel by train so I tried it, eager to find out how comfortable it can be. For three days I would leave the hotel at a specific hour, take the train for a 40 minutes ride to Berlin and carry out my business appointments. As soon as I was free of my business obligations, I would take advantage of the opportunity to walk around the city discovering new places! In the evening, I would return to my hotel once again by train.

The three days passed by quite fast but for me it was a different trip, out of the ordinary, maybe because I chose for the very first time not to stay downtown and move back and forth by train! An experience I truly enjoyed! As for Berlin, it left me with the best of impressions! A large city with wide roads, impressive buildings, crowded streets, evolved tourism, lots of traffic but all so well organized to help out the large number of daily visitors.

You can’t get acquainted to Berlin in just three days, that’s for certain! You just get a small taste of a huge and most interesting city! Besides the endless monuments and impressive buildings there are also great malls to steal your attention and do all kinds of shopping. I wish I had more time to get to know Berlin better as I left it with a strong feeling that I need to come back soon!

Secret Paradise Hotel & Spa, Kallikratia, Chalkidiki

Secret Paradise Hotel & Spa! A family hotel in Halkidiki, next to the sea, close to the center of Kallikratia and with direct access to Airport Makedonia (SKG).

Conveniently situated at the western part of the peninsula, Secret Paradise Halkidiki Hotel & Spa has the perfect location for you to explore the emerald beaches of Thermaikos Gulf with easy access to all the roads that lead to the most beautiful beaches of Halkidiki.

Secret Paradise Hotel in Halkidiki is open year round ready to offer you the experience of magical holidays or a pleasant stay during business trips. Rooms coupled with high quality services will make your stay in Secret Paradise Halkidiki Hotel more than just comfortable.

Comfort and luxury are combined with a magnificent view of Thermaikos gulf and mountain Olympus in Halkidiki Hotel Secret Paradise due to its great location next to the sea. The 41 rooms have either sea or garden view, offer you pure comfort and are fully equipped to make your stay in Secret Paradise Hotel in Halkidiki pleasant and unforgettable.

Amphitrite Spa Center : Let yourself live a unique experience in a place harmonically designed with unique drawings of Ancient Greece and dreamy atmosphere!!!
More details: www.secretparadise.gr

Alkyonis hotel, Kallikratia, Chalkidiki

Alkyonis Halkdiki Hotel is situated in the resort town of N.Kallikratia in the western region of the Peninsula of Kassandra Halkidiki. A spectacular view of the Thermaikos gulf and Mount Olympus complete one of the best views hotels in Halkidiki could offer. Located only 25 km from the airport of Macedonia and 35 kms from the city of Thessaloniki it’s the ideal spot to begin sightseen tours of Macedonia and this fact strengthens more the argument that Alkyonis is one of the best hotels Halkidiki has to offer.

The location of Halkidiki Hotel Alkyonis is perfect! Close to the airport and the center of N. Kallikratia and next to the sea. Enjoy, luxury and quality in a unique environment. Alkyonis Halkidiki Hotel, waits for you all year around to give you a taste of family hospitality combined with comfort and luxury holidays.

More details: www.alkyonis.com

San Marco Hotel, Mykonos, Greece

San Marco is the perfect illustration of Greek Cycladic architecture, surrounded by beautiful gardens and located across the serene pebble beach, Houlakia. Just a short distance away from Mykonos’ capital town of Chora, and just 15 minutes from the airport, San Marco is definitely the perfect resort for a relaxing getaway. If one wishes to experience Chora’s nightlife and shopping opportunities, there is complimentary transportation with San Marco shuttle bus.

The hotel also provides transfer service from/to the airport or port upon request.  All of San Marco’s 83 rooms are attractively furnished with balconies or terraces overlooking the sea, mountains or the landscaped gardens. There is a variety of deluxe rooms, maisonettes and junior honeymoon suites which are equipped with direct telephones, air-conditioning and heat, satellite TV, radio, piped music, mini fridge, safe box and a hair dryer.  Wireless internet access is available in the area of the hotel’s lobby and there is also a public-use computer which guests may use for internet access.

The hotel offers sumptuous breakfast buffet in our Pythari restaurant next to sea water swimming pool. Ιn the evening guests may enjoy the captivating Mykonian sunset and dine in the Veranda restaurant, where our Chef prepares special “a la carte” dishes, combining traditional Greek and International flavours. At the pool bar, guests may enjoy snacks, sandwiches, ice cream and refreshments while swimming and soaking up the Greek sun. For the perfect ambiance under burning candlelight and ambient music, join us in the evening in the  main bar to start the evening off right. If you work out daily, don’t fret.

On San Marco’s property, you’ll find a great workout gym, a tennis court and billiards. The boutique wellness centre gives endless possibilities for relaxation with a steam-bath, or for even more pampering, choose from an assortment of massages & other beauty treatments. There is even a hair/beauty salon on property.
More details: www.sanmarcomykonos.com

Grand Hotel Palace, Thessaloniki, Greece

Welcome to Grand Hotel Palace, the most integrated convention hotel of Thessaloniki. With its unique design, Grand Hotel Palace harmoniously combines the exceptionally modern facilities with the elegance and luxury of the neoclassical building, creating a unique cosmopolitan athmosphere.
The 261 Rooms and 15 halls all equipped with state-of-the-art technology can guarantee to cover the needs of even the most demanding guest.
Accomodation

Soft tones and warm wood combine to create an athmosphere of luxury and refined taste, where our guests can relax after a long day. The state-of-the-art equipment, which can cover the needs of every guest as well as the excellent service, can guarantee a memorable stay.
Conventions – Meetings

Grand Hotel Palace can guarantee the success of any business meeting or social event, thanks to the experienced conference and banqueting personnel, and the state-of-the-art equipment of the specially designed rooms and halls. At Grand Hotel Palace you can organize a meeting or an event of any type or size, ranging from a small business breakfast or brunch, to a large sales meeting, or a tele-conference, feeling assured that the personnel will offer you the most discreet and effective service, and assist you with any requirement. We are always ready to organize any type of event, even with a few hours notice! Grand Hotel Palace can provide an extensive range of banquet rooms and conference halls with capacity ranging from 10 to 3300 persons, specially designed to host any type of event, from small business lunches to large international conventions. The conference halls are equipped with the latest in technological advances.
Wedding Receptions

At Grand Hotel Palace, your wedding reception is …our personal affair! Acknowledging how important it is that everything is exactly as you wished for on this very special day, our experienced staff will become your most valuable collaborator, combining our expert knowledge with your personal touch, in creating the wedding reception of your dreams. The refined atmosphere, the impressive gourmet menus and suggestions provided from our chef, and the friendly and competent service, will help you relax and feel secure that everything will be prepared as you always dreamed of. Our staff and collaborators can suggest many original ideas regarding the decoration, the music, and other happenings, so that your reception stays memorable for a long time. To the couples that will hold their wedding reception at Grand Hotel Palace, we offer : Free … at a specially decorated newlywed suite, Free “Honeymooners Breakfast’, A bottle of champagne in your suite, along with a basket of fruit, honey and nuts, A bottle of champagne for the newlywed couple for the cutting of the cake, The wedding cake, Reception of the guests at arrival with traditional bezedes, Decoration of the tables with silver candle holders and mirrors strewn with rose pedals, Our staff is at your service to provide many original ideas to make your reception memorable
Health Club

Health Club is a fully equipped sports center with facilities such as a sports hall for aerobic workout, sauna for men and women, massage room, digital cardio and endurance equipment, as well as a heated indoor swimming pool. An elegant and discreet environment, ideal for everyday pampering, relaxing moments and revitalizing activities, always with the support of our experienced specialized staff. We can offer: Personal training program, State-of-the-art sports equipment, Sauna (men’s and women’s), Massage room, and Indoor swimming pool.
Restaurant & Bar

It is without question that a visit to Thessaloniki has to include a memorable gastronomic experience. At the Leonardo da Vinci gourmet restaurant, our head chef has created, along with his specialized team, an exquisite menu that combines the best from European haute cuisine, along with excellent suggestions from Greek traditional cuisine, always prepared with the most pure and fresh Mediterranean ingredients.
More details: www.grandhotelpalace.gr

Barcelona: Catalonia’s heart beats here ...

Barcelona is a beautiful city with colorful personality, something that the visitor realizes from the very first moment. It is a lively and cosmopolitan city with rich history, always full of tourists! Barcelona is a very popular destination for lovers of architecture as the buildings of the city are unique.

I visited Barcelona only for 4 days in December 2010  but the time was more than plenty for the city to amaze me. Unfortunately, I had the opportunity to explore just the city center. I made the tour of the city via the famous red shuttle buses  enjoying the sites all around. What I particularly liked was the changes of the scenery. A large and quite busy modern avenue was leading to a district with gothic buildings. Many of the buildings are representatives of modernism in the 19th century. Imagine all these different images into a single city, and you will understand why Barcelona has so many visitors each year. For anyone who loves architecture, an interesting approach to the city is through the buildings of the Catalan architect Gaudi, who left his mark on the city with the buildings he constructed as well as the Guell park.

The food options offered in Barcelona are good in general so I did not miss the chance to taste the delicacies sold on the way and I must admit they were quite delicious.

One of my visiting days was spent at the big Aquarium since my love for water creatures could not allow me to miss that special attraction. For an aquarium lover this is the supreme choice!

Barcelona's Aquarium is well organized and  -  although it is not one of the biggest one encounters-  it takes about an hour to walk it along. Visitors have the opportunity to see many species of fish and water creatures.

The most impressive section of all is definitely the sharks tank but in all other tanks the visitor may equally enjoy up close the fish species of the Mediterranean Sea.

Brussels ... the heart of Europe!

Brussels ... the heart of Europe!

A trip to Brussels is always pleasant for me. Travelling often there for business, I know the city, so I feel familiar. I always stay in the same area, near the Grand Place and I know some of the local attractions. The first thing that comes to my mind when I hear about Brussels is: a cosmopolitan city!

Brussels is a vibrant and bustling city attracting a lot of tourists. In the streets most of the people speak French, but you may well communicate in English language too. The city has many attractions and big shopping centers.

Grand Place is undoubtedly the most beautiful corner of the city! I love stumbling on the square, taking pictures and drinking coffee there... It is a square surrounded by tall and imposing buildings , in Gothic, baroque or art nouveau style in perfect harmony!! Being in the heart of Brussels, in the heart of Europe, is really a very nice feeling!

One more favorite area at Brussels, is the Sablon square ! If you love chocolate, then you definitely have to go there! Two of the biggest chocolate industries are located at Sablon area. If you also love antiques, there are many antique shops in this area. In a small park there, you will find some outdoor antique sellers. If you're lucky, you might find something to buy.

The area occupied by the European parliament, is another area of the city you must see. The building-or rather the complex of buildings- housing the European Parliament, is impressive. Glass and metal strapped harmoniously. Here beats the heart of Europe's policy. I believe it worth a visit !

Gastronomy

We're talking about the home of chocolate. There was no way not to try chocolates, and profiteroles! They were all very tasty! Also, I tried waffles, you can find them everywhere in Brussels. Finally, for my nights, I chose local famous tasty beers.

Messinia, Greece: Some beautiful places!

Kyparissía

It is a town in Messinia, Peloponneses. This is a small but beautiful coastal city with great history. It has beautiful and picturesque corners, several beaches nearby, where you can swim and it is imperative your visit to the Castle to admire the sunset ….

Methoni

Small town in the prefecture of Messinia, where the most important attraction is the medieval castle, which is the largest in Greece. It’s worth a visit. Walk to the south side of the castle to the sea to see the well-preserved tower which is almost «bathed» in the sea.

Marathos, Messinia

This small and beautiful place can be found in Messinia, on the road from Kyparissia to Pylos. Across from Marathos, is a very beautiful small island called Proti, which you can visit. Very near Marathos you will find many beautiful beaches for swimming.

Romanos beach,Messinia

Romanos beach, is situated in Messinia, just beside the similarly called village. The beach is sandy and the waters of the Ionian sea are of deep blue. The beach is very crowded during the summer season, while nearby are built some of the best hotels in Greece. Sea turtles lay their eggs in the beach of Romanos.

Stoupa,Messinia

It is one of the most beautiful beaches in Messinia, which in recent years has become a very popular tourist summer destination. Nikos Kazantzakis was inspired to write in Stoupa his famous Ζorbas book.

Kardamili, Messinia

Coastal village and a well known resort in Mani! The name of Kardamili is mentioned in Homer’s poets, a proof that it was built in ancient times. In the area you will find many beautiful beaches to swim, as for the local cuisine, it is excellent! Make sure not to miss a walk in the Old town of Kardamili!

Our two days experience at Kalymnos island...

Pothia, Kalymnos

It’s the capital and main port of the island that you should definitely visit! It is built amphitheatrically on the slopes and the valley between two rocky hills of the island looking down to the Aegean Sea ! Typical feature of the architecture of Pothia is the colorful shutters of the houses , an image that immediately attracts the eye of the visitor . Walking among the narrow streets admire the quite scenic spots while in the harbor you can enjoy your coffee or meal ! St. Sava church on the left side and the church of the Resurrection on the right side are places you must not miss to visit. The buildings of City Hall and Eparcheion that exist in Pothia since the period of Italian occupation are also worth a visit. Another major attraction is the Castle of Chrisocherias , built in 13th century by the Knights of Rhodes. Finally, walk next to the harbor late in the afternoon to enjoy the colorful sunset as the night comes ….

Telendos island

It is a small island – a total of 4 km length- belonging to the Dodecanese islands’ complex located very close to Kalymnos island. The place was well known since the Homeric times. The view is breathtaking, as the rock of Telendos rises through the Aegean Sea, painting the landscape in a unique way. The island is part of the European network «NATURA 2000″ as well as a «significant area» for the Birds of Greece. The settlement of Telendos is also classified as preserved. One of the best beaches to swim is the one called »Pnigmenos.»

Sponge Collectors of Kalymnos

They are the best divers in the entire world.. the divers of Kalymnos with the ocean floor considered home! They dive in the dark depths of Aegean to collect live sponges. In the past.. they would dive without any suit or air support.. risking their lives day in and day out! Their endless love of the sea floor drives them to dive continuously not just for sponges but other sea treasures too like various shells. A few decades back.. their lives were short and anything but easy! Many perished in their attempt to survive and feed their families. But they created a legend, which follows the divers of Kalymnos island up to this very day!

Exploring Naousa and Parikia at Paros island...

Exploring Naousa and Parikia at Paros island, Cyclades, Greece

Paros island

It is one of the most beautiful islands of the Cyclades ! Paros is the third largest of the islands group. The island beaches are unique and beautiful with crystal clear waters! The port of Naoussa will amaze you while a promenade to the beautiful alleys of Parikia will relax you. For most picturesque holidays try the villages of Ambelas or Alyki. The best food can be found at Alyki! We recommend it strongly! Also do not forget to go to Piso Livadi, which offers one of the nicest beaches. Inside Parikia, visit the archaeological museum and the church of Panagia Ekatontapyliani. Paros is the favorite destination of surfers and in many beaches you will find organized surf schools and clubs. Once there, do not forget to visit Antiparos island too, lying in just a short distance ahead! The options for your stay on the island are fit for any budget, while the local cuisine is delicious!!!

Naoussa, Paros island

Naoussa was once a quiet fishing village ! Today is one of the most famous tourist destinations in the Cyclades islands’ complex ! Built around a lovely little port, Naoussa, with its Aegean beauty captures the soul of the visitor from the very first moment. The scenery is Cycladic with ttraditional white buildings blending with the blue sky and sea. The visitor gets lost in the narrow paved streets while the extraordinary views follow one another. The Naoussa port is a cause for walks by itself offering options of many restaurants , cafes, bars and hotels. The visitor may relax an enjoy endless entertainment options along with the incredible views. Another interesting spot is the enchanting Venetian castle of Naoussa , dated to the 14th century. Do not miss to visit the Folklore Museum, and the Museum of Byzantine and Post-Byzantine Art . Note that some of the nicest beaches on the island, such as Kolympithres are located near Naoussa. As for the local cuisine, It will amaze you!

Parikia,Paros island

Parikia, the capital of Paros, unfolds like a beautiful picture to the eyes of the visitor . Built by the sea , will guide you through the narrow streets to beautiful corners! You may visit the Archaeological Museum of Paros and the famous church of Virgin Mary of the Hundred Gates . At the port of Parikia , you will find many small shops , cafes and restaurants offering many options during your stay ! Built approximately in the middle of the western side of the island of Paros , Parikia awaits to welcome you to its unique beauty !

Pelio, Magnesia, Greece: Some beautiful places!

Pelio, Magnesia, Greece: Some beautiful places!

It is even called The Mountain of the Centaurs, since ancient Greeks believed that the mountain was inhabited by these mythical creatures, half human half horse. Pelion, with both mountain and seaside villages, is a bustling and cosmopolitan travel destination through out the year. It even disposes of a ski resort at Chania. All the villages are beautiful. We just mention a few of them, the best known, like Portaria, Makrinitsa and Tsagarada. But all the rest villages of Pelion are equally picturesque. Visit them in order to feel the magic of the place…

Milina, Pelion

A lovely picturesque seaside village in Pagasitikos Bay, 47 km from Volos, in Magnesia. There you will find friendly people, slow life and good food, especially if you love seafood and fresh fish!

Vizitsa, Pelion

A picturesque village in Pelion, built with the impressive Pelionese architecture. The stone-paved narrow streets of the village will lead you to beautiful mansions and shady spots under sycamore trees, old as the hills … The village is about 30 km away from Volos and one of the most famous destinations in Pelion.

Horefto, Pelion

One of the most beautiful seaside resorts of Pelion, near Zagora. The beach, stretching about 2.5 km, will enchant you with its crystal clear waters. There are several accommodation options in the area, while enjoying great food as Pelion is quite famous for its local cuisine.

Makrinitsa,Pelion

One of the finest and most traditional villages of Pelion. It is about 17 km away from Volos. Visitors can enjoy the panoramic view of the city of Volos and the blue waters of Pagasitikos right from the picturesque village square. The residents will be glad to share with you their village’s long history. During your visit. don’t miss to try out the famous and tasty Pelion cuisine

Zagora, Pelion

One of the most famous villages of Pelion Mount. Zagora is built at a height of 400 meters, below Horefto village. It is divided into 4 districts , according to the church of the area: St. Paraskevi, St. Kyriaki, St. Georgios and Church of the Savior. Visitors love and get impressed by the traditional color of the village. While you are in the district, do not miss to pay a visit to the School of Rigas Feraios as well.

Mylopotamos,Pelion

Mylopotamos is one of the most beautiful beaches of Pelion, located near Tsagarada. The beach is small and sandy. An imposing rock separates it in two parts. In summer it is crowded due to its crystal waters and its unique beauty.

Papa Nero,Pelion

Beautiful beach in Pelion, near the seaside village of Agios Ioannis. The area is green and the beach every year becomes more and more popular. The place is ideal for relaxation while many options for accommodation and tasty food are available. The beach is well organized, yet remains quiet and idyllic. During the tourist season there is no access by car to the beach.