Life in the Country

Well-known as an exciting and intriguing ex-pat destination, Greece is positioned at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. It is a nation full of diverse vistas, from its ancient ruins and rich cultural legacy to its scenic beauty and welcoming people. One has the impression of having travelled back in time when seeing sections of modern, thriving cities like Athens and Thessaloniki, as well as the other small, peaceful islands and beach villages.

Despite recent economic troubles, the country is steadily regaining speed, and new travellers hoping to relocate to Greece are likely to experience a decent quality of life with tasty food and affordable living. The country’s strategic location on the Mediterranean provides its residents with excellent weather for most of the year and an extensive range of travel and adventure options.

With dazzling, whitewashed buildings along tree-lined promenades, the iconic Parthenon standing proud above the bustle of the capital, grizzled old fishermen tending nets along the waterfront, the bright colours of produce in the farmers’ markets, and the bleating of goats on the outskirts of an ancient village, as well as, other sights and sounds of Greece tend to draw people in from the moment they arrive.

Attitudes and Etiquettes of the Greeks

Greeks are well-known for their friendliness and laid-back attitude, which is essential in understanding their etiquette and customs. It is customary to allow someone to introduce you or declare your name when meeting someone for the first time. Shaking hands with a firm grip is the most polite way to welcome someone on a first meeting, as in most cultures. As a symbol of affection, good friends and persons who have known each other for a long time may embrace and kiss each other on both cheeks. Shaking someone’s hands while touching their shoulder is also popular among male acquaintances.

In general, Greeks are friendly, which at times is regarded as an act of invading personal space; they often ask tourists questions about their country and their experiences in Greece, which are considered too intimate in other cultures. However, such behaviour is not intended to be insulting. On the contrary, it is just an informal means of approaching people, making them feel at ease, and forming new relationships. Most Greeks like light-hearted laughs; therefore, they love making jokes.

If locals welcome you to their home, remember that punctuality is not a significant issue or concern. The Greeks have never practically established a precise schedule and instead encourage guests to “arrive around a certain time” in a vague sense.

The occasion determines the dress code. A coffee invitation necessitates more informal clothes. On the other hand, an invitation to a formal dinner implies that you should dress well but not overly so. Bring something for the host, such as pastries from the local bakery or a bottle of wine as a modest present. Upon arriving, express gratitude to the host for the invitation, and it will be highly appreciated if you can complement their house.

Major cities with varied course options

Greece is a tiny country with just over 20 universities spread around the country, all public universities. While courses are primarily taught in Greek, specialised study programmes in other languages, notably English, are also available at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. These institutions are linked to or connected with 15 Technological Educational Institutes (TEIs), which provide higher education programmes emphasising practical and professional skills in applied technology, healthcare, agriculture, management, and art and design. Greece’s higher education system is well-regarded worldwide and ranked 41st in the first edition of the QS Higher Education System Strength Rankings.

Language

Greek is the official and predominant language of Greece, and the majority of the country’s population speaks it. English is the country’s most widely spoken foreign language and is also taught as a second language in schools. Greek is also the de facto provincial language spoken in Albania. Today, it is known as Modern Greek, with several dialects spoken throughout the country. Greek is one of the world’s oldest Indo-European languages, having endured more than 34 centuries, and it is the official language of Cyprus, alongside Turkish. Today, more than 15-25 million people speak Greek, and 99.5% of Greeks communicate in the language.

Driving Laws

You must apply for an International Driver’s Licence (IDL) before renting a car in Greece unless you are a member of the European Union. In addition to an IDL, you will need a valid registration and evidence of internationally valid insurance to drive your automobile.

Checklist for Driving in Greece

• International Driver’s Licence
• Insurance documentation is necessary.
• Road rules
• Making use of the horn: Using your automobile horn in towns and cities is technically forbidden unless in emergencies. On high mountain roads, however, sound a brief beep before entering a blind bend to inform approaching vehicles of your presence.
• Parking: It is prohibited within 9 feet of a fire hydrant, 15 feet of an intersection, and 45 feet of a bus stop (though this may not be indicated). Street parking in certain localities requires the purchase of a ticket from a kiosk. These regions are frequently denoted by signage in both English and Greek.
• Seat belts: Front-seat passengers are required to use seat belts. However, because Greece has a high accident rate, rear passengers should also wear their seat belts.
• Children: Passengers under ten years cannot sit in the front seat. Furthermore, children under the age of three must utilise car seats
• Speed restrictions: In most cities, the speed limit is 50 kilometres per hour (30 miles per hour), whereas non-urban highways have a maximum of 110 kilometres per hour (68 miles per hour), and motorways and motorways have limits of up to 120 kilometres per hour (75 miles per hour).
• Toll highways: Tolls are required on two highways, also known as “Ethniki Odos” or the National Road, and vary based on the kind of vehicle being driven. Tolls are paid in cash or by debit/credit card. A Fast Pass system is also available. Toll booths can also be situated on the main route that connects Athens International Airport to the city centre.
• Cell phones: Using a cell phone while driving in Greece is illegal. Violators may be stopped and fined. This regulation is being driven home by periodic crackdowns.
• Roadside Assistance: The Automobile and Touring Club of Greece (ELPA) provides roadside help to members of AAA (Triple-A), CAA, and other similar assistance organisations, although any driver can call them. Dial 104 or 154 on your phone (when not driving) for easy access to ELPA while in Greece.
• Moving violations and parking citations are costly, frequently costing hundreds of euros.
• Driving side: As in the United States, drive on the right side of the road.
• For tourists visiting Greece, contact 112 for multilingual assistance in case of an emergency. Dial 100 for police, 166 for fire-fighters and 199 for ambulances. Dial 104 for roadside assistance or 154 for ELPA.