We were at Ikea Athens Mall yesterday Thursday 3rd April, between 3-4pm. We're in the process of buying homeware for our new Boat. As husband and I were browsing and recording what we need, our 2 daughters 8 and 4, played in the Kids toys area. Did they damage anything, no. They only played with display items. They made themselves comfortable, put down a display rug on the ground near the toys, put out some plastic cups and plates and a few display toys and pretended to have a picnic with the soft toys.
A male staff member ~ 50 years old very abruptly and rudely proceeded to yell at me to pack up or he would call security. For Ikea management, the dialogue as follows:
Staff: This is NOT a play area! Tell them to put it away NOW. Me: Yes sorry, they've made themselves comfortable, we will pack up Staff: NOW! Or I will call security on you. Me: Excuse me, you're being rude and aggressive. Not necessary to yell at me or my children. You just have to ask politely once and we would be happy to pack it up. Staff: I will call security! Put it away NOW!
We have just relocated from Australia to Greece, and have up until this point had the most amazing lovely experience with locals. I haven't been spoken to like that ever. And my children were pretty upset thinking it was their fault we would be kicked out of the store because they were playing with the toys.
Safe to say, we quickly packed up, left Ikea and made our way to Zara Home. We were warmly welcomed and staff also encouraged our children to play with the display toys and helped us with questions.
I don't mind if display toys are not to be played with, although we have never had an issue in Australia Ikea. I don't mind not having good service at Ikea. BUT to be yelled at and threatened to have security called and take us out because my children are playing with the toys in the Children area... I'm genuinely shocked.
I think this Staff member isn't enjoying his job anymore, i don't think customer service is suited for him. Ikea may be losing a lot more customers then my family if this Staff member keeps yelling and threatening to call security on children playing the the children area.
Tried to ask for his name to send feedback to management, ignored me of course. So I took a photo instead. AND photo of the offensive picnic our children...
Read moreThe Athens Mall offers a standard shopping experience, but potential visitors, especially tourists, should be aware of a key detail: it's closed on weekends. This was a significant inconvenience during my visit, and it's something to definitely factor into your itinerary if you're planning to go.
In terms of the mall itself, it's relatively small compared to other major shopping centers. You'll find a selection of familiar chain stores, both international and local, covering fashion, cosmetics, electronics, and a few dining options. However, there's nothing particularly unique or distinctive about the Athens Mall that sets it apart. It offers a fairly typical mall experience.
Pros:
Convenient Location: Depending on where you're staying in Athens, the mall might be conveniently located, offering a one-stop shop for basic needs. Variety of Stores: While not extensive, there's a decent variety of stores to browse. Dining Options: There are a few restaurants and cafes within the mall if you need a quick bite. Cons:
Closed on Weekends: This is a major drawback and makes it less accessible for many visitors, especially tourists who often have limited time and tend to explore cities on weekends. Small Size: The mall feels quite compact and lacks the grandeur or extensive offerings of larger malls. Lack of Uniqueness: There's nothing particularly special or memorable about the Athens Mall. It doesn't offer any unique attractions or experiences. Overall:
The Athens Mall serves its purpose as a local shopping center, but it's not a must-visit destination for tourists. If you need to pick up some essentials or do some quick shopping during the week, it's a convenient option. However, the fact that it's closed on weekends significantly limits its accessibility, and the lack of unique features means you're not missing out on a special experience if you skip it. I recommend checking the opening hours before making a trip to avoid...
Read moreThe Mall Athens is an exceptional shopping destination that offers a comprehensive and enjoyable experience for visitors. Spanning five floors, this mall is a hub of activity and excitement, featuring a wide range of brands and department stores that cater to every shopper's needs. One of the highlights of The Mall Athens is its extensive selection of retail options. From high-end fashion brands to popular department stores, there's something for everyone. Whether you're looking for the latest trends, electronics, or everyday essentials, you’ll find it all under one roof. In addition to shopping, The Mall Athens boasts a variety of entertainment options. The cinema provides a perfect spot to catch the latest movies, while the food court offers a diverse range of dining choices to satisfy any palate. For families and those looking for fun, the arcade games are a great way to spend some leisure time. The presence of a supermarket within the mall adds an extra layer of convenience, allowing visitors to pick up groceries and other necessities during their visit. Free Wi-Fi throughout the mall ensures that you stay connected, whether you’re shopping, dining, or just relaxing. Accessibility is another major advantage of The Mall Athens. It’s very easy to reach from Athens via tram, making it a convenient destination for both locals and tourists. The transportation ease adds to the overall appeal, ensuring a hassle-free journey to and from the mall. The Mall Athens is a must-visit for anyone in the area. With its vast array of shops, entertainment options, and convenient amenities, it provides a delightful and comprehensive shopping experience. Whether you're planning a day of retail therapy or a fun outing with family and friends, The Mall...
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