Exploring Kozani: A Hidden Gem in Northern Greece


Exploring Kozani: A Hidden Gem in Northern Greece



Exploring Kozani: A Hidden Gem in Northern Greece

Kozani, a city nestled in the rugged landscapes of Western Macedonia, offers visitors a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and a quiet charm that contrasts with the bustling energy of Thessaloniki, just two and a half hours away by car. While tourists rarely venture into this part of Greece, those who do are rewarded with stunning mountain views, rich cultural traditions, and a deep commitment to environmental sustainability.

A City of Contrasts: Tradition Meets Innovation

Kozani is best known for its energy production, saffron cultivation, and traditional Macedonian culture. The city is built at an altitude of 720 meters, surrounded by the Vermio, Pieria, and Vourinos mountain ranges, and lies near Lake Polyphytos, which is crossed by the impressive High Bridge of Servia.

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Dining at RISE Restaurant, Marina Bay Sands Singapore: A Sustainable Gastronomic Adventure

Marina Bay Sands, Singapore.
Text & Photo © CM Cordeiro 2025

Marina Bay Sands (MBS) in Singapore is not just an architectural marvel; it is a symbol of innovation, luxury, and sustainability. Within its sprawling complex lies Rise Restaurant, an open-concept buffet that offers a global gastronomic journey. Located at Tower 1, RISE combines international flavors, impeccable service, and a strong commitment to sustainability.

The Marina Bay Sands Experience

The hotel is a global icon of luxury and sustainability, seamlessly blending opulence with innovative environmental practices. Renowned for its Infinity Pool atop the Sands SkyPark, luxurious accommodations, and world-class entertainment, MBS is also at the forefront of sustainable hospitality through its Sands ECO360 program [Factsheet]. This initiative integrates green measures across its operations, reinforcing the resort’s commitment to ecological responsibility.

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A Day in Wuchang: Street Food, Coffee, and Culture

Wuchang District, Wuhan, China.
Text & Photo © CM Cordeiro, E. Sindhøj 2025




Wuchang District in Wuhan, China, is a vibrant blend of history and modernity, where sprawling urban landscapes meet charming cultural pockets. Renowned for its bustling markets, contemporary architecture, and rich heritage, Wuhan offers an immersive urban experience filled with culinary delights. On this particular day, we decided to take an afternoon off work to explore Wuchang, soaking in its energy and flavors.

Afternoon Strolls: Exploring the Streets

We began our day by wandering through some of Wuchang’s most popular spots for both tourists and locals. The streets were lined with numerous small shops, offering a variety of goods and services. Food vendors were plentiful, proudly presenting their freshly prepared specialties, from steaming buns to skewers sizzling over open flames. These streets felt alive, not only with the enticing aroma of food but also with the chatter of families, couples, and friends enjoying their meals.

The district’s architecture complemented the vibrancy of its streets. Emerging from large intersections, we found ourselves in narrower lanes near Hubu Alley, where the energy was electric with food vendors and shoppers. The thoughtful urban planning, with its wide roads and inviting public spaces, made exploring these areas an absolute pleasure.

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Changchun Temple: A Blend of History, Spirituality, and Modern Energy



Changchun Temple, Wuhan, China.
Text & Photo © CM Cordeiro, E. Sindhøj 2025

Changchun Temple in Wuhan is undeniably one of the city’s most scenic spots—a harmonious fusion of history, spirituality, and natural beauty. Located on the southern slope of Double Peak Hill in the Wuchang District, this Taoist temple holds a significant place in Chinese history and culture. It is revered as one of the ten famous Taoist sanctuaries and a blessed place south of the Yangtze River. Continue reading “Changchun Temple: A Blend of History, Spirituality, and Modern Energy”

A Walk Through Helsinki: Oodi Library and Allas Sea Pool – Icons of Innovation and Serenity

Helsinki harbour, Finland.
Text & Photo © CM Cordeiro 2024



My recent visit to Helsinki brought back a wave of memories from my last trip in 2015, when I attended the GEM&L (Groupe d’Études Management & Langage) conference in the summer of 2015. Helsinki has always held a special place in my heart, and walking around the city harbour this time felt like rediscovering an old friend, albeit with a few delightful surprises.

One of the highlights of my walk was discovering Oodi, the Helsinki Central Library. Opened after my 2015 visit, Oodi stands as a testament to Finnish innovation and design. Nestled in the Töölönlahti area, it is a striking architectural marvel that seamlessly blends traditional and contemporary elements. Its wooden facade, crafted from Finnish spruce, softens the steel and glass structure, creating an inviting and sustainable landmark. Designed by ALA Architects, Oodi embodies Helsinki’s commitment to open, accessible public spaces.

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Balancing Tradition and Tourism: Sustainable Practices in the Baltic Sea Region

Smørrebrød and a cappuccino, Frederikshavn, Denmark.
Text & Photo © CM Cordeiro & , JE Nilsson 2024

At the recent EUSBSR Annual Forum 2024, I met many individuals passionate about and committed to restoring the Baltic Sea. And I can see why—the coastal regions of the Baltic Sea can easily find their way into your heart. With its striking landscapes and vibrant maritime culture, the region offers experiences that go beyond mere sightseeing. The rich maritime biodiversity invites not just observation but immersion. My recent visit to Wassersleben Strand and Flensburg, Germany, reinforced my appreciation for how these areas balance tourism with ecological responsibility. However, with popularity comes the challenge of maintaining a delicate balance between economic growth through tourism and environmental conservation. It was with this perspective that I spent my time in Wassersleben and Flensburg, observing how policies and practices are implemented to shape sustainable tourism and understanding their significance for both locals and visitors alike.

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Aalborg’s Allure: Sustainable Travel and Culinary Delights by the Fjord

On the grounds of Budolfi Church (Budolfi Kirke) in Aalborg, Denmark.
Text & Photo © CM Cordeiro & , JE Nilsson 2024

Aalborg’s Allure: Sustainable Travel and Culinary Delights by the Fjord

There’s something innately soothing about the sea—a powerful calm that washes over you as you set sail on an adventure. Starting from Gothenburg, Sweden, the journey to Aalborg, Denmark, began with an early morning ferry ride that promised not just transit, but an experience. The soft lapping of waves against the hull, the crisp, salty breeze, and the horizon stretching infinitely under the golden glow of sunrise set the perfect tone for the trip ahead.

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Hummersupé 2024 Donsö Sweden

At the year’s lobster dinner event, Hummersupé 2024, at Isbolaget Restaurang, Donsö, Sweden.
Text & Photo © CM Cordeiro & , JE Nilsson 2024

There are moments in life that feel almost too exceptional to put into words, and this weekend’s Hummersupé 2024 at Isbolaget Restaurant, Donsö, was exactly that—a magical blend of a stunning sunset, quiet and warm interiors, and a sumptuous culinary experience that makes evenings like this unforgettable.

I’ve lived on the island of Styrsö since 2002, when I first arrived in Gothenburg, Sweden. Donsö is the neighboring island, connected to Styrsö by a bridge. In the early 2000s, we used to sail to Donsö, just for the fun of summer boating, grab an ice cream from the local shops, and turn around to head back home. The southern Gothenburg archipelago is home to me, and these islands will always hold a special place in my heart. It’s a place where the open ocean wraps around smooth, rocky coastlines, creating a serene setting that feels worlds away from the hustle of everyday city life.

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Surströmmingfest in Karlstad, Sweden

In Karlstad for a surströmmingfest.
Text & Photo © CM Cordeiro & , JE Nilsson 2024

Surströmming: A Traditional Swedish Delicacy

Surströmming is a traditional Swedish delicacy made from Baltic herring that undergoes fermentation. The word surströmming is derived from “sur” (meaning sour or acidic) and “strömming” (the local term for Baltic herring). Historically, this process was a practical solution for preserving fish with minimal salt, particularly during times when salt was scarce. It originated from the need for efficient food preservation before refrigeration existed, making it an essential staple in Swedish households.

Strategic with the use of a kitchen towel as cover.

The Production Process

The production process involves catching Baltic herring just before spawning in early summer, lightly salting them, and fermenting the fish in barrels for several weeks. After the initial fermentation, the herring are canned, and the fermentation continues in the sealed container. This creates gases, resulting in the characteristic bulging of the can—a hallmark of surströmming and the source of its infamous odor, caused by compounds such as hydrogen sulfide, butyric acid, and propionic acid.

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Lithuania’s Culinary Landscape: A Market Journey

You know you’re back in Sweden, along the Swedish west coast when you have that quintessential räksallad.
Text & Photo © CM Cordeiro & , JE Nilsson 2024

Lithuanian food culture, shaped by its history and geography, places a strong emphasis on local and seasonal ingredients. Root vegetables, grains, and meats are at the heart of the cuisine. While dishes like cepelinai (potato dumplings) and šaltibarščiai (cold beet soup) reflect the influence of neighbouring Poland, Russia, and Germany, they retain a distinctly Lithuanian character, often incorporating traditional techniques like fermentation, pickling, and smoking.

For Nordic travellers, Lithuania offers a blend of familiarity and novelty. The widespread use of rye bread, dairy, and hearty ingredients may feel comforting and familiar, yet the Lithuanian approach to preparing and pairing these ingredients—such as using Varškės Sūris (a type of farmer’s cheese) in both sweet and savoury dishes—adds a unique twist. It’s an experience that invites you to discover something new amidst the familiar, with Lithuanian hospitality and a love for simple yet flavourful food making the trip memorable.

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