I'll be back soon...

After a long period of being away from my blog its high time to return and give life to this blog again. I want to apologize for not uploading any article. I had a very difficult month full of exams in order to get in the university. But this Saturday is my IELTS exams and then I will be able again to upload stuff.

I have great plans for the summer so the next blogs are going to be full of my experiences in many different places and many music concerts. So can't wait to upload again many many blogs. Furthermore, I was thinking of a new youtube channel full of my vlogs from summer concerts and trips I am going to join. Whats your opinion? Let me know in the comments. See you on Saturday guys.

-Anastasia x.x

Star Wars Island: Skellig Michael

Star Wars: The last Jedi released few months ago and Star Wars fans are excited about the decision of Luke Skywalker training Rey to be a jedi. The training took place in Luke's island by the fans. But the real name of the place is Skellig Michael and is located in west seas of Ireland. A wilderness and nature preserve off the coast of western Ireland offers eco and landing tours that let visitors explore the rugged terrain- part which is a UNNESCO World Heritage site. There is even an ancient monastery, if you are looking to mediate and awaken your inner force.

The island is open for tourists from mid-May to early October meaning fans will have to wait until summer to see "Ahch-To" up close. But you will want to bookahead anyway, as only a small number of visitors around 180 travelers a day will be able to visit the historic site. If you get a spot the journey takes 45 minutes by boat from surrounding coastal towns, barring you do not encounder any crazy storms or rough seas along the way. Once you shore, you have about a three-hour window to explore. Skellig Michael is a popular retreat for seabirds: You may see puffins, kittiwakes and fulmars.

The island is also a steep 714 feet above the sea level, providing rigorous climbs for the more adventurous traveler. A 670 step-stairway will take you at the monastery complex, which was established around the sixty century. The grounds include a church, graveyard, two oratories and gardens. Keep in mind that there is no bathroom so make sure you go beforehand-not even the best jedi skills will hepl you hold it.

Considering the historic landmarks and delicate ecosystems, some of the island's tour guides raides a controversy over the star wars filming and its effects on Skellig Michael. Claire O'Halloran, an public guide reported the damage to the monastery entrance was so bad that it was not safe to use for a while. And the monastery steps, home to storm petrel birds, were under heavy traffic for 12 hours a day creating a precarious situation for the small animals.

Overall, she was shocked at how much repair work was needen. "Anyone who knows or cares for the island should  be asking if this is the right time to be adding other challenges and endangerments to what is here and what is so uniquely our own: she told The irish Times. In response, the Irish Film Board insisted that it was "always aware that Skellig Michael is a UNESCO World Heritage site and has always benn respectful of this designation in all of its dealings.

How to aftercare your new tattoo

Caring for a new tattoo is your responsibility from the very moment you get out of the tattooist's chair, right through untill the moment you die. It is vital that you treat your new tattoo care routine with the respect it requires in order for your ink to look as crisp, sharp and colorful as it possibly can for as long as you are alive. when you initially finish getting your sparkling new tattoo at a studio, your skin will essentially be a big raw wound, open to all sorts of nasty germs and  bacteria. Correct aftercare procedures ensure that the tattoed area of skin remains infection free in an enviroment that is perfectly set up to ensure that healing proceeds to happen as quickly and efficiently as possible.

It is not only the initial healing process where proper aftercare is important through. As you age, so does your tattoo. There are many enviromental factors that will dictate how good or how badly your tatoo will look as it ages with you. Throughout the rest of this article, we will walk you through all of these factors, as well as accompanying on how to protect your tatoo through all stages of its life.

                                                                                               Aftercare Steps:

#1- Leave your bandage/ wrap on until told by your artist:
While some artists may ask you to leave your bandage on for only an hour, others may ask you to keep it on for a whole day. Your artist knows which length of time is best for you and your tatoo, so ensure you listen to their advice.

#2- Wash your tattoo well after removing the bandage/ wrap:
Wash your tattoo throughly 9but carefully) using warm water and a fragrance-free soap to remove any excess/ dried blood and plasma.

#3- Pat your tattoo dry after cleaning it.
Use a clean paper towel to dry your tattoo by gently PATTING the area. DON NOT RUB.

#4- Apply a small amount of lotion:
After cleaning your tattoo, ensure the area is COMPLETLY dry before applying a very thin layer of your chosen aftercare product/ lotion to help moisturize and nourish the area.

#5- Wash your tattoo regularly:
Continue to use a frangrance- free soap and lukewarm water to clean your tattoo at least twice a day.

#6- repeat the cleaning process untill the tattoo is fully healed:
Remember that your tattoo is not completely safe from germs and bacteria until it has COMPLETELY finished scabbing and peeling. Continue to wash the tattoo untill this point (usually 2-4 weeks).

#7- Do not pick and pull at the flaking/ scabbing skin:
Picking away at your healing tattoo can delay heading, cause fading, and increase the chances of infection.

#8- Stay away from the sun:
Do not your new tattoo to increase sunlight and do not apply any sun lotion to the area until it has fully healed. After fully healed use always sunscreen with 30 or more UV factor.

#9- Stay away from water:
All bodies of water can contain nasty bacteria that can ruin a new tattoo if you are not careful. Stick to short showers until your skin has fully healed, and do not go swimming.

#10- Continue to look after your tattoo once healed
Once healed, keep your tattoo well protected from the sun and ensure you continue to moisturize the area regulary. Healthy skin means a healthy looking tattoo.

In case of inflection visit your doctor as soon as possible and ask for medical treatment.

Take care your new tattoo!

Uprising Greek Bands

Many people support that being Greek means that you can't have a career in music industry. But there are many examples of Greek bands that have achieved a worldwide fame. For example Rotting Christ (black metal), 1000mods (stoner) and of course Planet of Zeus (heavy rock). So here is a list of 7 uprising underground Greek bands.

Number 1:
Breath After Coma:

Breath after coma is a 4-piece alternative heavy rock band from Athens, Greece. They got together in 2013. They have released two studio albums (Breath after coma EP 2015 / Leaders LP 2017) They have a considerable presence in the rock Greek rock scene, which has grown drastically over the last few years, having performed all over the country with successful Greek bands and having a steadily growing fan base.

I, the animal- Breath after Coma:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZgkxlNwv8-I&list=PLV1cuQ0TDS-SYhz9g5TBhuJaWle_i5On8

Number 2:
CoreTheBand:

Coretheband is a 5-member indie rock band from the island of Crete,Greece. They got together in 2012 with first members Jacob Gale (front man) and Maxi Kabutz (drummer). They have released 2 EP albums ( 40% volume / The waiting game: are we there yet?). They have built a strong fan-base in Greece and abroad. They have played more than 150 live shows, won a sleew of Greek and international awards and appeared  on series, ads and talk shows on Greek national Tv.

Update-Coretheband:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8s9iYAo36jc

Number 3:
Oceandvst:

Oceandvst is a 5-people rock-punk band from Thessaloniki,Greece. They are together since 2017 but they have a rapidly dilatation in Greek stages. They already have an EP album ( Escape Rovte). One of their best moments is the 3rd place they took in Street Mode Band Competitions by 1055 Rock. The band is currently in the studio recording their new full length album based on alternative and rock-punk sounds.

Stay-Oceadvst:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=abEiMUOlLtQ

Number 4:
Cheek By Jowl:

Cheek by Jowl is a 4 member funk rock band with blues-soul and international pop scene influences. One of the band's particularities is that they make the sound and style of the music they represent their own, which induces a more pleasnt mood. Cheek by Jowl formed in the spring of 2015. In September of 2016 they released their first EP and now they are getting close to debuting their first album.

Keep up-Cheek By Jowl:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DbH6D3GsP-A


Number 5:
Underhill West:

Underhill West are a 4 member pop rock band from Xanthi, Greece. They are together since 2005 and they count many live shows in many Greek cities. They already have 3 EP albums ( Moment of life 2007 / Our way 2011 / That sense 2015).They have performed in several Greek cities from Alexandoupoli to Crete in two different tours.

Justify my night- Underhill West:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5oyvbsD7Uk8

Vans Warped Tour

The Vans warped tour is a traveling rock music tourthat has toured United States. Annually each summer since 1995.It is the largest traveling music festival in the United States and is the longest-running touring music festival in North America. The first Warped Tour took place in 1995, and the skateboard shoe manufacturer Vans became the main sponsor of the tour starting with the second tour in 1996, when it became known as the Vans Warped Tour. Although Vans has continued to be the main sponsor and lend its name to the festival, other sponsors have also participated, with stages or other aspects of the festival sometimes being named after them. Warped tour was conceived in 1995 as an eclectic alternative rock festival, but in 1996 began focusing on punk rockmusic. Although it has continued to be known primarily as a punk rock festival, it has included acts of diverse genres over the years. On November 15, 2017, Kevin Lyman announced that the 2018 Vans Warped Tour would be the final, full cross-country run. Lyman did hint to a large celebration in 2019, the 25th year of the tour.

Dates for 2018's Vans Warped Tour:

(2018 Vans Warped Tour for first time ever in Japan)

Artists for Vans Warped Tour 2018:

You will participate first time? Here is a list with information about your first experience in Vans Warped tour:

Q: Is there an age limit for Warped?
A: No warped tour is for everyone. No age limits!

Q:Where do i get tickets?
A: You can find online and in a variance of shops

Q: Do parents get in for free?
A: Yes! One child with a ticket equals to an adult.
Extra Notes:
No switching parents out halfway through the day
No older siblings permitted to act as the accompanying adult

Q: When are my tickets going to be mailed?
A: Mail to home tickets are often mailed out 3 to 6 weeks before your tour stop, but they can be delivered up to one week before your show. Shipping times vary by market.

Q: What can I bring to the show?
A: You can bring with you :
small, lightweight backpack (drawstring bag or purse)
one sealed bottle of water
small, expandable umbrella
sunscreen (lotion no aerosl spray we want to protect enviroment)
camera (professional equipment allowed)
sharpies for autographs and writting set times
snacks

Q: What items are prohibited?
A: You should not bring
glass bottles or cans
skateboards, scooters or hover boards
animals (except service animals)
GoPro, mobile video poles, selfie sticks
large umbrellas
chains or spiked clothing
weapons of any kind (knives, guns, mace/pepper spray, tasers, etc)
laser pointers or artificial noise makers
fireworks or explosives
aerosol cans
alcohol or ilegal substances
small unmanned aircrafts systems (drones)

Q: I hear if I donate blood i can go backstage?
A:This year, the American Red Cross is offering backstage access for the first 100 fans at most shows to redeem their American Red Cross VIP Access Pass. To get the ARC VIO Access Pass, come in to give blood at a designated Vans Warped Tour blood drive throught the summer.


Q:What time does the show start and end?
A: Doors for Warped gennerally open at 11:00am and the show closes down by 9:00pm.

Van Gogh alive

The globally acclaimed “Van Gogh Alive – The Experience” made its way to the city centre of Athens. The exhibition took part on 7^th November and was produced by “Grande Exhibitions” and “Lavris Ltd”. You must notice that it was not an ordinary art exhibition. Traditions of tiptoeing through unnervingly silent galleries and viewing paintings from afar in quiet contemplation are forgotten as visitors find themselves interacting with art in ways they never imagined. Van Gogh Alive- The Experience was supposed to stretch the definition of the word ‘exhibition’ as it was stimulating the senses and was opening the mind. The exhibition catered perfectly both young and old people.  

Almond Blossom- Vincent Van Gogh

From start to finish, visitors were surrounded by a powerfull and vibrant symphony of light, colour and sound that compled them to leave the world behind and immersed themselves in what has been called an “unforgettable” multi-sensory experience. Van Gogh’s masterpiece came to life as visitors experience the sensation of walking right into his paintings- a feeling that was simultaneously enchanting, entertaining and educational.Both adult and children supposed to find their own meaning as they wander through the galleries, exploring hidden nooks, viewing artworks from new angles

Starry Night Over the Rhone- Van Gogh

Starry Night- Vincent Van Gogh

Sunflowers- Vincent Van Gogh

Visiting Scotland

Visiting Scotland
Millions of people visit Scotland every year from all around the world. While it is, of course, understandable, it is many ways regrettable that the vast majority of those people visit only the most famous tourist attractions and population centres. This means that a high percentage of visitors to Scotland miss out on seeing the lesser-known gems which Scotland has to offer in abundance.

Inverness, Capital of the Scotish Highlands:

Inverness is the most northerly city in the United Kingdom and is often reffered to as the capital of the Scottish Highlands. While a great many people visitors to Scotland will visit Loch Ness with the hope of seeing one very particular Scottish visitor attraction, a high proportion will not take the time to visit Inverness and see what the city has to offer.
Inverness castle can be found in the very centre of Inverness on a hill overlooking the river. The castle serves in modern times as the Intervness court building, and is not open to public. It is possible to freely wander the grounds and admire the views of the city and beyond. The present Inverness castle date back only to the early 19th century, but legend has it that MacBeth killed King Duncan in a 11th-century castle in Inverness, as made famous in "The Scotish play". It is rumored that Duncan's ghost still patrols the banks of the river Ness to this day. It is possible to walk a great way along both banks of the river Ness, exploring the city in stages and using the river as a landmark guide. One site which can be seen almost immediately across the river from the castle is the city's Anglican Cathedral, St.Andrew's.

Clyde Valley:

 The Clyde Valley tourist route takes you on a 42 mile (67 Km) journey passing through spectacular scenery and many interesting and important sites which offer an insight into the reach cultural, natural and industrial heritage of the Clyde Valley. Thera are lots of places to stop and explore on foot. These days an extremely popular aspect of the route relates to the many garden centres that are dotted along the route. Visitors can enjoy coffee, unusual gift ideas as well as extensive ranges of plants, garden furniture and hardware.

 

Glen Coe:

Widely considered one of the most beautiful areas of the United Kingdom, the spectacular valley of Glen Coe has a haunted past as the site of a 17th- century massacre which saw 38 members of the MacDonald Clan hunted to death in the snow. Another 40 women and children died of exporsure when their homes were burned to the ground. Yet the landscape is equally as haunting as its past. Driving around the towering peaks of the "Three Sisters" under foreboding clouds and drizzling rain, you can feel the weight of sadness on thi place.