Other Greece

National and regional newspapers

- National newspapers: Greek daily newspapers such as Kathimerini, Ta Nea, and Ethnos offer up-to-date news on politics, economy, culture, and international events. In major cities like Athens and Thessaloniki, various print editions are available for purchase at newsstands or via online subscription.

- Regional newspapers: Regions have their own newspapers, for example, Patris in Crete and Makedonia in Thessaloniki.

 

Online news portals

- News websites: Some of the most popular portals are in.gr, Newsit.gr, Protothema, Naftemporiki, and SKAI News. These sites provide the latest news, analysis, and video reviews, available in Greek.

- Greek Reporter, Ekathimerini, Neos Kosmos, and Athens News Agency cover local events in English.

 

Television

- National channels: The state-run channel ERT and major private channels like SKAI, ANT1, and Mega broadcast news in Greek.

- International channels: Some international news channels such as BBC World News and Euronews are available with Greek subtitles and offer an international perspective on the news.

 

Radio

 

- News stations: Radio remains a popular source of news, especially for people on the go. ERA (Greek Radio) provides news and cultural programs, as well as news bulletins in Greek and English. Stations like SKAI 100.3 FM regularly broadcast news blocks and discussions of current events.

 

Social media

- Facebook and Twitter: Many Greek news outlets actively maintain their social media accounts. It's recommended to follow the pages of Kathimerini, SKAI News, News247, and Protothema.

- YouTube channels: Many Greek media have YouTube channels where they publish video news, documentaries, and interviews. Some channels, such as SKAI and ERT, regularly update video content, allowing you to stay informed at a convenient time.

 

Smartphone apps

- Greek news apps: in.gr, Kathimerini, Protothema, and SKAI News offer apps for iOS and Android.

- English-language news apps: Greek Reporter and Ekathimerini.

 

Local news newsletters

- Weekly and daily newsletters: Some Greek publications, such as Kathimerini and Greek Reporter, offer subscriptions to newsletters that include key news and articles of interest to foreigners. This is a convenient way to receive news directly to your email.

Stereotypes are simplified perceptions of a country or people that often do not reflect the full complexity and diversity of culture and society. Greece, with its rich history and cultural heritage, is also surrounded by many stereotypes. Let's look at some of them and try to understand how accurate they are.

 

Greeks are lazy and don't want to work

Stereotype: It is believed that Greeks prefer leisure over work, reflected in long breaks and a late start to the workday.

Reality: This stereotype likely arose from the economic difficulties Greece has faced in recent decades. However, studies show that Greeks work some of the longest hours in Europe. Economic problems are related to a multitude of factors, including structural issues and external influences, not the work ethic of the population.

 

Greeks are always late and not punctual

Stereotype: Greeks do not adhere to strict timeframes and often are late for meetings.

Reality: While Greek culture indeed has a more relaxed attitude towards time in informal situations, punctuality is valued and maintained in business environments. As in any other country, the level of punctuality can vary from person to person.

 

Greeks constantly drink coffee and relax in cafes

Stereotype: Cafes are packed with people spending hours with a cup of coffee, doing nothing.

Reality: Coffee culture is indeed an important part of social life in Greece. People meet at cafes for socializing and discussing news. However, this doesn't mean they avoid work. Coffee meetings often occur after work or during breaks.

 

Greece is all about the sea, sun, and islands

Stereotype: The country is associated exclusively with beaches, white houses, and tourist resorts.

Reality: Greece is not just beautiful islands and beaches. The country has a rich cultural heritage, including ancient monuments, museums, mountainous landscapes, and diverse nature. There are many regions with unique traditions and history worth visiting.

 

All Greeks dance Syrtaki and break plates

Stereotype: The national dance Syrtaki and the tradition of breaking plates are present at every celebration.

Reality: Syrtaki was created in the 1960s for the film "Zorba the Greek" and is not a traditional folk dance. Although it is sometimes danced at events for tourists, Greeks have many other traditional dances. Plate breaking was popular in the past but is now rare and mainly intended for tourist shows.

 

Greeks are very religious and conservative

Stereotype: Greeks strictly adhere to Orthodox traditions and have conservative views.

Reality: Orthodoxy indeed plays a significant role in the culture and history of Greece. However, modern Greek society is diverse in its views. The youth often tend to be more secular, and many Greeks embrace modern and progressive values.

 

Greeks are loud and emotional

Stereotype: Greeks speak loudly, gesture actively, and easily express emotions.

Reality: In Greek culture, it is indeed common to express emotions openly, and conversations can be lively. However, this does not imply aggressiveness or rudeness. It is simply part of a communication style that values sincerity and directness.

 

Greek cuisine is only gyros and moussaka

Stereotype: The range of dishes is limited to a few well-known ones like gyros, moussaka, and Greek salad.

Reality: Greek cuisine is very diverse and rich. It includes a variety of dishes made from meat, fish, vegetables, and grains. Regional differences add to the diversity, offering unique dishes in different parts of the country.

 

Greeks are overly relaxed and live without stress

Stereotype: Life in Greece is an eternal vacation without worries and rush.

Reality: Like in any other country, Greeks face everyday challenges, work, and care for their families. Although the culture indeed values a balance between work and personal life, the assertion that Greeks do not experience stress is an exaggeration.

 

All Greeks love football and basketball

Stereotype: Sports are the main passion of all Greeks, and they actively follow football and basketball games.

Reality: Sports are indeed popular in Greece, and many people enjoy football and basketball. However, the interests of the population are diverse, and not everyone is into sports.

 

Greeks are always ready for strikes and protests

Stereotype: Frequent strikes and protests are part of the national character.

Reality: The right to protest and express opinions is valued in Greek society. Strikes and demonstrations occur in response to social and economic issues, reflecting the active civic stance of the population.

 

Greeks are strong patriots and proud of their history

Stereotype: Greeks always talk about their history and consider it the best in the world.

Reality: Greeks are indeed proud of their cultural heritage and history, which played a significant role in the development of Western civilization. However, they are also open to other cultures and appreciate modern development.

 

Greeks are very hospitable and friendly

Stereotype: Locals are always welcoming to guests and ready to help.

Reality: Hospitality is an important part of Greek culture, and many people are indeed open and friendly towards foreigners. This is a positive stereotype that is often confirmed in practice.

Transportation and navigation

Beat: A popular taxi app similar to Uber. It allows you to quickly find a car, choose a route, and pay for the trip by card. The app operates in Athens and other major cities.

OASA Telematics: An app for tracking public transportation in Athens. It shows bus arrival times, routes, and nearby stops.

Uber: Although Uber operates limitedly in Greece, it can be used to hail a taxi in some areas, which can be convenient for tourists and residents.

Moovit: A global application for planning routes on public transportation. It operates in Athens and other major cities, providing real-time transportation information.

e-katanalotis: This is a government application that allows users to compare gas prices and find the nearest gas stations, as well as view current prices on products in stores.

 

Payments and Finance

Winbank Mobile: An online banking application from Piraeus Bank, one of the largest banks in Greece.

Alpha Mobile Banking: Online banking from Alpha Bank.

Viva Wallet: A Greek mobile payment application that allows users to pay for online purchases, send money transfers, and use virtual cards.

Taxibeat: A taxi booking app with the option to pay through the app, which is especially convenient for those who prefer not to use cash.

 

Local News and Information

Kathimerini: The application of one of the most popular newspapers in Greece, Kathimerini. Available in both Greek and English, it offers the latest news, articles, and analytical materials.

Greek Reporter: An English-language news app about Greece.

 

Health Apps

MyHealth: The official app of the Ministry of Health of Greece, providing access to medical data.

Doctor Anytime: An application for making appointments with doctors in Greece; users can find doctors by specialty, book appointments, and see ratings and reviews.

Pharmacy near me: This app helps find nearby pharmacies, especially useful for locating pharmacies open at night or on weekends.

 

Food and Delivery

efood: One of the most popular food delivery apps; it operates throughout Greece and offers the option to order dishes from restaurants as well as delivery of groceries and goods from supermarkets.

Wolt: An international food delivery app available in Greece; suitable for ordering food from restaurants with delivery to home or office.

BOX: A local application for delivering groceries and goods.

 

Housing and Rentals

Spitogatos: A leading app for searching rental or sale housing. Includes various filters for searching apartments, houses, and commercial real estate throughout Greece.

XE: A popular application for finding residential and commercial real estate.

 

Travel and Tourism

Visit Greece: The official tourism app from the Greek National Tourism Organization.

Ferryhopper: An app for booking ferry tickets throughout Greece and between islands.

 

Social and Cultural Events

Eventora: An application for searching events including concerts, theater performances, and exhibitions.

Stoiximan: A sports betting app popular among sports enthusiasts. It also includes information on sports events, matches, and tournaments.

 

Language and Learning Apps

GreekPod101: An app for learning Greek, providing audio lessons, practice, and useful phrases for everyday communication.

 

Utility Apps

ΔΕΗ MyDEH: An application for managing electricity bills from the main electricity provider ΔΕΗ (DEI).

Cosmote and Vodafone Greece: Official applications of major communications providers. They allow you to pay bills, track communication expenses, and manage internet service subscriptions.

Festivals and Holidays

- Athens and Epidaurus Festivals: Annual summer events featuring theatrical performances, concerts, and dance shows in the historical amphitheaters of Athens and Epidaurus.

- Thessaloniki International Film Festival: Held in November and is one of the most significant film festivals in Southeast Europe.

- Panigiri: Traditional village festivals dedicated to the local patron saint, featuring live music, dancing, and national cuisine.

- Carnival: Takes place in February-March before Lent, especially popular in the city of Patras with masquerades and parades.

 

Music and Nightlife

- Rebetika and Laika: Traditional genres of Greek music that can be heard in taverns and music clubs.

- Modern Concerts: Greek and international artists often perform at stadiums and concert venues in Athens and other major cities.

- Nightclubs and Bars: The areas of Psiri and Gazi in Athens, Ladadika in Thessaloniki, and the islands of Mykonos and Santorini are known for their active nightlife.

 

Theater and Art

- Ancient Greek tragedies and comedies: Performances of classic works in original locations, such as the Theater of Dionysus in Athens.

- Modern theater and ballet: Numerous theaters offer contemporary plays, musicals, and dance performances.

- Art galleries and exhibitions: The National Gallery in Athens and private galleries showcase works by both renowned and emerging artists.

 

Culinary Events

- Wine festivals: Regions of Nemea and Santorini host tastings of local wines and gastronomic events.

- Culinary tours: An opportunity to explore traditional Greek cuisine by visiting markets, master classes, and farms.

 

Sports Events

- Athens Classic Marathon: An annual event in November attracting runners from all over the world.

- Football matches: Games between famous clubs like Olympiacos, Panathinaikos, and PAOK gather many fans.

 

Religious Rites and Traditions

- Easter holidays: A central event in the religious life of the country with processions, church services, and traditional dishes.

- Epiphany: Celebrated on January 6th with the blessing of the waters and the symbolic immersion of crosses into the sea.

 

Museums and Historical Sites

- Acropolis and Acropolis Museum: A chance to learn about ancient history and archaeological finds.

- National Archaeological Museum: One of the largest museums dedicated to ancient Greek art and history.

 

Open-air Cinemas

- Summer cinemas: Popular in warm months, they offer movie screenings outdoors in parks and beaches.

In Greece, the availability of public restrooms and their convenience vary depending on the location and type of establishment.

 

Public Restrooms in Tourist Locations

- Attractions and museums: All major museums, archaeological sites, and popular attractions, such as the Acropolis and the National Archaeological Museum, provide public restrooms for visitors. They are usually free for visitors of the museum or the site.

- Parks and squares: Large parks usually have public restrooms. Admission is free, but their condition can vary.

 

Restrooms in Cafes and Restaurants

- Accessibility policy: In Greece, most cafes, restaurants, and bars allow patrons to use the restrooms. In tourist areas, such as on the islands and in popular parts of Athens, the owners generally do not object if a visitor enters just to use the restroom.

- Minimum order: In some cases, especially in smaller establishments, there might be an expectation that a visitor makes at least a minimal purchase if they wish to use the restroom.

 

Shopping Malls and Large Stores

- Shopping centers: All major shopping centers have public restrooms, conveniently accessible on each floor. These restrooms are free and are usually in good condition.

- Supermarkets: In large supermarkets, restrooms are usually intended for employees, but shoppers can sometimes use them by asking staff for permission.

 

Restrooms at Bus and Train Stations

- Bus stations: Major bus stations, such as KTEL in Athens and Thessaloniki, have restrooms available, although a small fee may be charged for their use.

- Train stations and metro: Major train stations, such as Larisis station in Athens, have restrooms for passengers. In the Athens metro, restrooms are available at some stations. Entry to metro restrooms is free for passengers.

 

Restrooms at Beaches

- Organized beaches: Paid organized beaches with infrastructure, such as Astir and Vouliagmeni beaches in Athens, provide restrooms as part of the entrance ticket.

- Open beaches: On open and free beaches, the availability of restrooms depends on the beach's popularity and local infrastructure. In some cases, one can find portable toilets or restrooms in nearby beach cafes.

 

Restrooms at Gas Stations

- Availability at gas stations: Virtually all large gas stations, especially along highways, have restrooms for visitors. These restrooms are free and are often used by travelers for quick rest stops during their journey.

 

Useful Tips

- Mobile Apps: Applications like Flush Toilet Finder or WC Finder can help find the nearest toilets in major cities, showing reviews and up-to-date information.

- Toilet Paper: Not all public restrooms provide toilet paper, especially in less popular locations. It is recommended to carry a small pack of tissues or toilet paper.

Official Language Courses

- Universities and Language Schools: Many Greek universities, including the University of Athens and Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, offer Greek language courses for foreigners. These programs provide comprehensive training from beginner to advanced levels and often include grammar, conversational skills, and cultural aspects of the language.

- State Greek Courses for Immigrants: The Ministry of Education of Greece and municipal learning centers organize free or subsidized courses for immigrants. These courses are designed for adults living in Greece and often include the basic level of Greek necessary for work and daily life.

- Private Language Schools: In major cities such as Athens and Thessaloniki, there are schools that offer Greek courses for adults with an emphasis on conversational skills.

 

Online Platforms and Apps

- Duolingo and Memrise: These international apps provide a basic Greek language course, convenient for beginners.

- GreekPod101: A platform with a wide selection of audio and video lessons where you can learn Greek with conversational examples and lessons focused on everyday situations. It's a great opportunity to listen to native speakers.

- Italki and Preply: Online platforms for one-on-one lessons with a tutor via video call. Students can choose a tutor based on their level, timing, and budget. This is a suitable option for those who want to learn the language at their convenience and receive a personalized approach.

 

Language Exchanges and Conversation Clubs

- Language Tandems: Language tandems are popular in Greece, where you can exchange knowledge with native Greek speakers. For example, a foreign student can teach their native language to a Greek partner in exchange for Greek lessons. You can use sites such as Tandem or ConversationExchange to find language exchange partners.

- Local Conversation Clubs: Meetings are held in Athens, Thessaloniki, and other major cities to practice Greek in an informal setting, organized by clubs and language communities. These events help quickly learn conversational phrases and improve communication skills.

 

Online Courses and Webinars

- Coursera and edX: These platforms offer Greek language courses from renowned universities and educational organizations. Online courses usually include video lessons, interactive assignments, and tests for consolidating material.

- Living Language and Pimsleur: Paid courses offering audio and video lessons for self-study of the Greek language. Programs are especially suitable for those who want to improve their conversational skills and pronunciation.

 

Video and Media for Language Learning

- YouTube Channels: Channels such as Learn Greek with Lina and Learn Greek with Eleni offer free Greek language lessons with explanations in English, including grammar, pronunciation, and conversational phrases.

- Movies and Series with Subtitles: Watching Greek movies and series with subtitles is a great way to immerse in the language and culture. Some popular Greek series, such as Το Νησί ("The Island"), can be found with English and other language subtitles.

- Radio and Podcasts: Listen to Greek podcasts and radio stations like ERA and Protothema Radio to get accustomed to the sound of the language and intonation. Some podcasts are adapted for Greek learners, making them particularly useful for developing listening skills.

 

Self-Study Guides and Educational Materials

 

- Greek Language Textbooks: Classic textbooks, such as Teach Yourself Greek and Greek for Beginners, allow you to study the language on your own.

- Dictionaries and Phrasebooks: Dictionaries, like the Oxford Greek Dictionary, and phrasebooks will help with translation and understanding phrases in everyday situations.

 

Cultural Immersion and Language Practice

- Language Immersion through Communication: The more time a person spends surrounded by native speakers, the faster the learning process occurs. Practice with locals, such as communicating with neighbors, participating in volunteer programs, and attending cultural events, can significantly accelerate learning.

- Tours in Greek: Many tour companies offer tours in the Greek language, which can be excellent practice for those who have already mastered a basic level.

Greece is rich in history and culture, which is reflected in its numerous national holidays and traditions. These events are deeply rooted in religion, history, and the everyday life of Greeks, offering a unique insight into their way of life and values.

 

New Year — January 1st

- Traditions: Families gather together to celebrate the arrival of the New Year. Vasilopita — a special pie with a coin baked inside — is cut. It is believed that the person who finds the coin in their slice will be happy and lucky in the new year.

 

Epiphany — January 6th

- Traditions: Also known as Fota, this holiday commemorates the baptism of Jesus Christ. The main ritual is the blessing of waters. A priest throws a cross into the water, and young men dive to retrieve it. The one who retrieves the cross first receives a blessing for the whole year.

 

Carnival — February/March

- Traditions: Before Lent, carnival processions with masquerade costumes, music, and dancing are held. The most famous carnival takes place in the city of Patras. People engage in celebrations, enjoying fun and freedom of expression.

 

Clean Monday

- Traditions: Marks the beginning of Lent. Families go out to nature for picnics, fly kites, and enjoy fasting dishes such as lagana (unleavened bread), seafood, and tahini.

 

Greek Independence Day — March 25th

- Traditions: This holiday marks the start of the Greek War of Independence against the Ottoman Empire in 1821. Military parades, school events, and church services are held. This day also coincides with the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary.

 

Easter

- Traditions: The most important religious holiday in Greece. Holy Week is filled with church services and rituals. On Good Friday, processions with the epitaphios (symbolic tomb of Christ) are held. On Saturday evening, people gather in churches with lit candles, awaiting the resurrection. After midnight, everyone greets each other with "Christ is risen!" and participates in a festive dinner featuring magiritsa, a traditional soup.

 

Labor Day and Spring Festival — May 1st

- Traditions: Celebrated as Workers’ Day and the arrival of spring. People gather wildflowers and weave wreaths, which are then hung on doors as a symbol of prosperity and well-being.

 

Assumption of Mary — August 15th

- Traditions: One of the most significant religious holidays, dedicated to the Virgin Mary. In towns and villages, religious processions, fairs, and folk festivities with music and dancing are held.

 

Ochi Day — October 28th

- Traditions: This holiday commemorates the Greek government's refusal to accept Mussolini's ultimatum in 1940, leading the country into World War II. Military and school parades, as well as wreath-laying ceremonies at monuments, are conducted.

 

Christmas — December 25th

- Traditions: Christmas is celebrated with family gatherings, church attendance, and the preparation of traditional dishes such as melomakarona and kourabiedes (types of cookies). Children sing kalanda — Christmas carols, receiving sweets or small amounts of money in return.

 

Name days

- Traditions: In Greece, name days are often celebrated more lavishly than birthdays. On this day, the person whose name corresponds with a saint’s day receives guests who come with wishes and gifts.

 

Traditional Weddings

- Traditions: Greek weddings are rich in rituals. The "Kalamatianos" dance is popular, during which guests pin money to the clothes of the couple or throw it onto a tray with sweets. It is believed to bring financial prosperity to the new family.

 

Children’s Baptism

- Traditions: Baptism is an important family event. Following the ceremony in the church, a festive meal with close friends and family is usually held, featuring traditional dishes and desserts.

 

Feast of Saint George — April 23rd

- Traditions: Celebrated in honor of Saint George, the patron saint of many regions in Greece. Fairs, folk festivities, and equestrian competitions are organized.

 

Feast of Saint Demetrius — October 26th

- Traditions: Especially significant in the city of Thessaloniki, where Saint Demetrius is considered the patron. Religious processions and cultural events are held.

Athens and Ancient Monuments

- Acropolis and Parthenon: A symbol of ancient Greek civilization and architecture, the Acropolis with its majestic Parthenon temple is the main attraction of Athens and arguably all of Greece.

- Temple of Olympian Zeus: One of the largest ancient temples, located near the Acropolis. Massive columns remain here, and the majestic ruins create an atmosphere of past grandeur.

- Agora and Plaka: The ancient Agora, a former center of public and political life, allows you to see the remnants of ancient buildings. The Plaka district, located at the foot of the Acropolis, attracts with narrow streets, traditional houses, and cozy cafes.

 

Santorini Island

- Fira and Oia: These two towns are known for their white houses with blue roofs and magnificent views of the Aegean Sea. Sunsets in Oia are considered among the most beautiful in the world.

- Akrotiri Archaeological Site: An ancient city buried under volcanic ash, reminiscent of the Minoan civilization and often compared to Pompeii.

- Kamari and Perissa Beaches: Known for their black volcanic sand, they are popular places for relaxation.

 

Crete Island

- Knossos Palace: One of the most important archaeological monuments of Crete, the ancient palace of Knossos is linked to the myth of the Minotaur and the labyrinth.

- Samaria Gorge: One of the longest gorges in Europe, hiking through it is a great opportunity to enjoy wildlife and picturesque views.

- Rethymno and Chania: Charming towns with Venetian and Ottoman heritage, ancient streets, ports, and fortresses.

 

Thessaloniki

- White Tower: A symbol of Thessaloniki and one of the city's main attractions. From here, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city and the waterfront.

- Archaeological Museum and Rotunda: The museum displays artifacts from ancient Macedonia, and the Rotunda is one of the oldest buildings in the city, a former mausoleum later turned into a Christian church.

- Church of Saint Demetrios: A Byzantine church that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Saint Demetrios is the patron saint of the city, and his tomb attracts pilgrims.

 

Rhodes Island

- Old Town of Rhodes: A medieval town with fortress walls, a castle of knights, and narrow streets—a true open-air museum.

- Valley of the Butterflies: A picturesque place where in summer, you can observe a large number of butterflies attracted by the moist environment and unique vegetation.

- Lindos and its Acropolis: A charming whitewashed village with an ancient acropolis on a hill and stunning views of the sea.

 

Meteora

- Rock Monasteries of Meteora: Unique Orthodox monasteries built on top of high rocks. This complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and amazes with its beauty and grandeur. There are six operating monasteries open for visits.

 

Delphi

- Temple of Apollo and Oracle: An ancient complex where the famous Delphic Oracle was located. This place, considered the "center of the world" in ancient Greek mythology, attracts with its unique location and history.

- Delphi Archaeological Museum: Here you can see ancient statues and artifacts found during excavations of the Apollo sanctuary.

 

Peloponnese Peninsula

- Ancient Olympia: The birthplace of the Olympic Games. Here you can visit the ruins of ancient sports facilities, temples, and a museum with unique exhibits.

- Mycenae: An ancient city with cyclopean walls and the tomb of Agamemnon, considered one of the oldest civilizations in Europe.

- Nafplio: One of the most beautiful coastal towns in Greece with Venetian fortresses, a picturesque promenade, and a historic center.

 

Ionian Islands

- Corfu: Famous for its green landscapes, Venetian castles, and historic center, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

- Zakynthos: An island with the famous Navagio Beach with white cliffs and crystal-clear water. It's one of the most photographed beaches in Greece.

- Kefalonia: Known for beaches like Myrtos and picturesque villages like Fiskardo with their unique architecture.

 

Halkidiki Peninsula

- Halkidiki Beaches: The three peninsulas—Kassandra, Sithonia, and Athos—are known for clean beaches and beautiful bays. Here you can find both secluded spots and popular resorts.

- Mount Athos: An Orthodox monastic state where access is granted only to men by special permission. Athos has twenty monasteries and is a center of Orthodox monasticism.

 

Thermal Springs of Edipsos

- Thermal springs: Edipsos on the island of Evia is famous for its natural thermal springs. It is a popular destination for those who want to relax and benefit from bathing in mineral waters.

Greece is a country with a rich cultural heritage and deep traditions that are reflected in the daily behavior and social norms of its inhabitants.

 

Greetings and Addressing

- Handshakes: At first meetings, it is customary to exchange a firm handshake, accompanied by eye contact and a smile.

- Cheek kisses: Among friends and close ones, it is customary to kiss both cheeks when meeting and parting.

- Use of names: Greeks often address each other by name. In formal situations, titles such as "Kyrie" (Mr.) or "Kyria" (Mrs.) with a surname can be used.

 

Family and Relationships

- Family values: The family plays a central role in Greek society. Respect for elders and support for relatives are considered important.

- Hospitality: Greeks are known for their hospitality. Guests are often invited for dinner or coffee, and refusal may be perceived as impolite.

 

Communication and Language

- Emotionality: Greeks usually express their emotions openly and may speak louder than is customary in other cultures. This is not a sign of aggression but part of their communication style.

- Gestures: Active gesturing is a common part of communication. However, some gestures, like an open palm with raised fingers, are considered offensive.

 

Time and Punctuality

- Punctuality: In informal situations, a small delay (up to 15 minutes) is usually not considered an issue. However, in business and official meetings, it is advisable to arrive on time.

- Rhythm of life: Greeks value a calm and relaxed lifestyle. Long lunches and breaks are common.

 

Clothing and Appearance

- Dress style: In major cities, people dress fashionably and stylishly. When visiting churches or religious places, modest dressing is required: covered shoulders and knees.

- Business dress code: In business environments, classic suits for men and elegant attire for women are preferred.

 

Meals and Restaurants

- Shared meals: Food is an important part of social life. Dishes are often ordered for the entire group and shared among participants.

- Paying the bill: Typically, the inviter pays the bill. If you are invited, offering to split the bill may be seen as a reluctance to accept hospitality.

- Tips: It is customary to leave a tip of 5-10% of the bill amount, although it is not strictly necessary.

 

Gifts

- Gifts when visiting: If you are invited to someone's home, it is appropriate to bring a small gift: flowers, sweets, or wine.

- Unwrapping gifts: Gifts are usually unwrapped immediately upon receipt, expressing gratitude.

 

Religion and Traditions

- Religious customs: Most Greeks are Orthodox Christians. Respect for religious traditions and holidays is very important.

- Churches and monasteries: When visiting religious places, one should be quiet and respectful, and adhere to appropriate dress codes.

 

Business Etiquette

- Meetings: Personal contacts play a significant role in business. It is recommended to establish good personal relationships with partners.

- Business discussions: Often, business discussions may take place over lunch or dinner.

- Exchanging business cards: Business cards are exchanged at the first meeting. It is advisable to have information in both Greek and English.

 

Conversation Topics

- Pleasant topics: Greek culture, history, cuisine, sports (especially soccer and basketball) are good topics for conversation.

- Avoid: Political and historical conflicts, especially those related to neighboring countries, can be sensitive topics.

 

Social Norms

- Smoking: Despite legal restrictions, smoking in public places is still common.

- Queues: In some situations, queues may be loosely organized. Patience and politeness will help avoid conflicts.

- Public Transport: In buses and the metro, it is customary to give up a seat to elderly people, pregnant women, and people with disabilities.

 

Language

- Basic Phrases: Knowledge of basic phrases in Greek is appreciated and helps establish contact.

- English Language: Many Greeks, especially in cities and tourist areas, speak English, but attempting to speak in Greek will be positively received.

 

Holidays and Siestas

- Working Hours: Many shops and institutions close in the afternoon, especially in summer, for a siesta.

- Holidays: On national and religious holidays, many places may be closed, and planning your time accordingly is advised.

The main levels of governance are state, regional, and municipal, each responsible for certain aspects of life and public services.

Structure of Local Government

Greece is divided into several levels of administrative governance:

- 13 Regions: These are the largest administrative units, encompassing several prefectures. Regional authorities coordinate work between prefectures and municipalities and are responsible for key areas such as economy, development, transport, and healthcare.

- 74 Regional Units: These units are part of the regional structure and represent administrative divisions that coordinate the implementation of regional decisions at the local level.

- 325 Municipalities: The primary level of local government, which provides local services such as waste collection, water supply, local roads and infrastructure, cultural and social programs.

Ministry of the Interior of Greece and Central Coordination

- Ministry of the Interior: The Ministry is responsible for overseeing the entire system of local governance in Greece and supervises the work of regional and municipal authorities. It develops general directives, ensures compliance with legislation, provides funding, and develops programs aimed at supporting and developing local governance.

- Coordination and Fund Allocation: Financial support for regions and municipalities, as well as the distribution of the budget, depend on the Ministry of the Interior, providing necessary control and unified standards for performing administrative tasks.

Independent Bodies and Citizen Participation

- Greek Ombudsman: This independent body monitors the protection of citizens' rights and considers complaints regarding the work of state bodies, including municipal and regional authorities. The Ombudsman helps resolve disputes and improve the quality of administrative services.

- Public Hearings and Citizen Participation: Many municipalities hold regular meetings and public hearings where residents can express their opinions on important issues, receive responses from local authorities, and participate in decision-making.