Do you run a company in online business? Are you looking for new inspiration and international experience? Do you want to avoid the Dutch winter blues?

It might not be the first thing you think of, but you can come work in Athens for part of the year. We think it could be an inspiring learning experience, because Athens is the warmest cool place in Europe.

Orange Grove

Orange Grove is a co-workspace supported by the Dutch Embassy and leading businesses and universities in Athens. It is a well equiped, neatly designed space for 50 young entrepreneurs, that has links to companies (from corporates to start-ups) and educational institutions (Delft University of Technology, Unviersity of Amsterdam, Athens University of Economics and Business).

Hip town

Despite the crisis, Athens is hip and happening place to be for young people. There is a vibrant start-up scene and the entire city is buzzing with activity. You will notice some cultural differences, but you will also find that getting to know likeminded Greeks, who are well-educated, speak perfect English, and like to get their hands dirty, is easy. Many Greeks like to work together with Dutch people. Most young Dutch companies will start doing business internationally after some time. Greece, which is different but familiar at the same time, is a great place to gain experience.

Enjoy Athens

In your free time, Athens is a hip and happening place to be. The city is safe and has a unruly nightlife. You can go to the beach until November, in the winter the temperature sometimes hits 20 degrees Celsius (coffee in the sun!) and the sea water temperature never drops under 15 degrees Celsius. Donzes of island are connected to Piraeus by boat. Wind and kite surfing goes on half an hour from downtown Athens. There’s all kinds of outdoors activities going on. Want to go snowboarding? Take 15 euro return bus to great slopes.

Affordable

Compared to the Netherlands, the cost of living can be kept very low. Rent for small studios starts at 150 euros. You can have dinner for as little as 10 euros. Getting a drink at a terrace is cheaper much of the time too.

Orange Grove, downtown Athens

Orange Grove, on the ground floor that also houses the Dutch Embassy, offers workspaces for 100 euros a month, including free coffee and wifi. Orange Grove is open between 10 am and midnight. Network with young entrepreneurs, attend seminars and master classes, have meetings with coaches and mentors.

KLM is a sponsor of Orange Grove. The first ten Dutch entrepreneurs to apply (and get accepted) for a spot in Orange Grove receive a free plane ticket (Amsterdam-Athens).