Top 10 Things Must do when Visiting Greece

There is a “top 10″ for just about everything possible out there, and while I’m getting ready for a trip to ancient ruins, feta cheese, retsina wine and foreign words, I came across this one: Top 10 Things to Know When Visiting Greece. Pretty general right? I definitely learned a few things, so I’d like to share it with you here:

   1. Greeks ask personal questions, so be prepared. They’re very friendly and can often come across as a little nosy too. They also express their feelings/emotions quite publicly so you’ll see everything from anger bouts to old ladies holding hands.
   2. When you meet someone new, shake hands. Once you become acquainted then it’s a kiss on each cheek to say hello and goodbye.
   3. Introduce yourself, because they won’t. It’s polite for us to introduce the third party when we run into someone on the street with a friend. Greeks don’t necessarily do this, so take the initiative and make the introductions yourself.
   4. Waving gestures: a waving open palm away from you means “come here” while an open palm facing you means “good bye”, quite opposite from what we’re used to at home.
   5. Insulting gestures: It’s considered very rude to push an open hand with fingers slightly spread towards a Greek’s face. They anyway like to stand closer than what you’re maybe used to and this sign, moutza, is a no-no.
   6. Nodding your head means “no”. The Greek head nod (up and down movement) actually means “no” in Greece, not “yes”. It’s also how to signal for a taxi.
   7. When eating out, share your plate. Eating at a restaurant is a family affair and everyone’s plate s free for sharing. Instead of taking an individual portion, many Greeks just share communally from the serving bowls. It’s natural and at some taverns you won’t even be given a plate.
   8. Eat, don’t stop even if you want. Your Greek hosts will serve you both food and drink until you think you can’t move, then they’ll serve you more. If you don’t want any more food be persistent with your “no” but still lovely.
   9. At restaurants the checks don’t come separate. It’s considered stingy to ask for a separate check or tab. At the end of a meal the Greeks usually divide it up evenly or one person takes it all.
  10. Relax, punctuality is for the office. When it comes to keeping time, things are a lot more relaxed in Greece. When it comes though to an event with a precise start time, like a film, they’ll be on time but if it’s a casual meeting, don’t be surprised if they’re an hour late (unless it’s a romantic date).

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