)
|
|
|
|
The Japan Times
WORLD EYE REPORTS
GREECE |
|
|
|
|
|
©THE JAPAN TIMES
|
Saturday, February 22, 2003
|
|
A room with a view...of the Acropolis
Greece is the cradle of western civilization -- the origin of drama, history and philosophy, and the birthplace of democracy. Greece has a history of civilization dating back nearly 8,000 years and the traces they left are virtually everywhere in the modern era. This gives Greece a unique blend of the ancient and modern world.
 Mykonos: Window on a sun and sea fantasy |
|
Every year over 14 million travelers come to Greece to experience the legacy of its ancient history, culture and myths, or simply to indulge themselves in its natural beauty. It is no wonder that this small country is the 15th most visited tourist destination in the world. It offers more sunshine, islands and beaches than anywhere else in Europe, attracting travelers to its 3,200 kilometers of beaches on its 2,500 islands.
The islands are divided into six groups: the Cyclades, the Dodecanese, the Northeastern Aegean, the Sporades, the Ionian and the Saronic Gulf Islands. Together they offer a unique Mediterranean atmosphere with small fishing harbors and beautiful whitewashed villages clinging to rocky landscapes. Once experienced, the warmth of Greek hospitality and the friendly nature of its people are hard to leave behind.
|
But Greece's beauty is not limited to its islands and beaches. There are many majestic mountains, among them the Pindus range or Mount Olympus. Greece's highest peak, it climbs to an altitude of 2,917 meters. High season for tourism is from June through August, although the country is becoming an attractive winter and winter-sports destination as well.
No trip to Greece would be complete without a visit to Athens, the thriving capital of Greece -- and home to nearly half of its 11 million population. The ancient Acropolis rises above the city as the most prominent symbol of its ancient history and civilization. This rapidly developing metropolitan center is the perfect place to begin a Greek journey. The traveller can lose himself in the ancient center of Plaka, dine at a charming taverna, sip coffee or ouzo in a shady village square and then go dancing until sunrise in a variety of nightclubs.
|
|
 Santorini's whitewashed houses look out over a volcanic landscape |
Whether traveling on business or for pleasure the Athens Ledra Marriott Hoteloffers unique and memorable accommodations for its guests year round. The Ledra Marriott is conveniently located in central Athens, just ten minutes from the city center and the Acropolis -- and easily accessible using their free shuttle. The new Athens Eleftherios Venizelos airport is 45 minutes away, the Olympic stadium half an hour by car and the Port of Piraeus -- gateway to the Greek isles -- just fifteen minutes away.
 Spectacular view from the Ledra Marriot's rooftop pool
|
|
The entire hotel has been renovated in the last two years and is currently expanding its east wing and events boardroom. The project will be completed in May of 2004, creating an additional 56 rooms and bringing its total to 314 rooms -- just in time for international guests attending the Athens Olympics. Its plush accommodations, elegant environment and traditional high service could leave a guest feeling like one of the Greek gods.
After sightseeing around Athens, there is a chance to indulge in the Ledra Marriot's roof-top pool, Jacuzzi or Panorama Bar overlooking the very Acropolis and Aegean Sea. Guests can also enjoy a workout in the health club followed by a soothing sauna, before ending the day sharing a drink with friends, family and colleagues with the live music of the hotel's Crystal Lounge.
|
The Ledra Marriott also offers a variety of exceptional international cuisines, ranging from Mediterranean in the Zephyros to Polynesian and Japanese in the Kona Kai restaurant -- rated one of the top ten restaurants in Athens for the past 18 years.
The Ledra Marriott specializes in catering to all business needs, with a 24-hour business center including high-speed internet connections and a full-service executive lounge.
|
|
