I want to start by saying I love Greece. I have visited many times and I value, respect and cherish the culture and the people. I do my best to learn about the culture and the way of life as to not make errors or assumptions. I have never had a bad experience in Greece. I've never had an unpleasant experience with any individual. Until today.
Early today I took my sister and friends to the Acropolis Museum. After, we wrote waiting for our driver and decided to walk into the shop. Now the shop had incredibly beautiful items. Beautiful clothing, gorgeous jewelry + other trinkets. We spoke and said hello when we walked in. The gentleman behind the register said nothing. He sat there barely looking up. My friend saw a beautiful dress on display and asked about. He finally got up begrudgingly. I myself saw a necklace on display. Immediately fell in love with it. It was on a mannequin ( as was the dress) so I asked him about after he helped my friendly - politely saying excuse me and asking where I could find it in the store. His mannerism was dismissive. He gave me a bit of a snobby look and pointed to an area. I tried to look past it. I understand people have bad days. Perhaps he was.
So, I brushed it off and continued looking. I saw a few pieces I was ready to purchase until my sister pulled me aside and let me know our presence wasn't welcomed. The gentleman made a statement when he thought no one could hear but his colleague - who spent most of his time sitting outside - and said "typical Americans." His colleague laughed and went outside.
We weren't loud, demanding or rude by any means. I immediately walked out. I decided not to patronize a store that didn't care for me. You don't have to tell me but once with body language or words you don't care for me.
I'm not sure if it was stereotypical bias, body shaming or racial biased but I have never felt so uncomfortable while in Greece. So while they had many beautiful items, the personal experience and service left a poor taste in my mouth. I didn't buy anything. And the rest of the group i was with walked out as well. It was a very disparaging feeling.
Timing wise it happened 2 August in the...
Read moreAnastasia Memories from Athens: Where every garment and gem is a snapshot—and Kopoul is the curator!”
If you’ve ever wished your shopping trip could come with a side of personality, culture, and aesthetic perfection, welcome to Anastasia Memories from Athens—where I strode in for a couple of T‑shirts and jewellery, and left with a full‑blown love affair with style, sass, and subject matter expertise.
Kopoul, the maestro behind the counter, greeted me with such charm and know‑how that I suspected he might moonlight as a walking encyclopedia of Greek sartorial lore. Need a T‑shirt printed in the shade of Athenian sunset (#810C11)? Done. Looking for jewellery that whispers “ancient myth, modern chic”? Kopoul knew exactly the chain, the bead, the handcrafted glint that would make me swoon.
The shop itself is a feast for the eyes—immaculate design, curated details, and a layout that feels like a boutique staged by Athena herself. Clean lines, tasteful lighting, and displays so elegant you half‑expect a chorus to sing when you walk in. Every piece—whether a crisp tee or a delicate necklace—has its moment to shine.
In terms of service, Kopoul is the epitome of “exceeding expectations.” He guided me through the T‑shirts and jewelry selection with the precision of an art curator and the warmth of an old friend. He perfectly balanced wit, storytelling, and attention—without a hint of pushiness, yet completely irresistible.
I walked out not just with gorgeous items, but with a story to wear. Anastasia Memories doesn’t just sell souvenirs; it crafts memories—one T‑shirt, one piece of jewelry, and one stellar encounter with Kopoul at a time.
To Kopoul: You’re a one‑man Athenian boutique dream team. If ever there were six stars to give, I’d give seven—because “an impeccable aesthetic + encyclopedic charm” should be a gold standard in...
Read moreAnastasia’s memories is the best place to buy unique and exclusive handmade stuff and souvenirs in the heart of Athens. The shop invites you to bring the real Greek essence back to your countries at really competitive and good prices. The owner is very friendly and interesting assisting with anything you may need! Undoubtedly, the best shop of this...
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