5 things to know about Greek lifestyle and culture

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If you want to move to Greece, then you need to understand the Greek lifestyle. Greece is a large, diverse country with long history, so there are many traditions and festivals for you to celebrate.
Where East Meets West

Greece’s position on the edge of the Mediterranean means that it has picked up influences from both Europe and Asia. This can be seen in everything from its cuisine (including the famous coffee) to its music.

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National Pride

If you move to Greece, you’ll see lots of expressions of national pride. The famous Greek passion can be seen in how they talk about their culture and traditions, from iconic ancient monuments to modern innovations.

Family Values

There is a tradition in Greece that families should remain close. Sometimes grandparents, parents, children, aunts and uncles all live in the same apartment building, with the patriarch on the first floor. It is rare that elderly relatives are shipped off to retirement homes.

Greek Orthodox Influences

Not every person in Greece is a devout follower of the Greek Orthodox Church, but the influence of Greece’s main religion can be felt in festivals all around the country, from name days to Easter, the most important of all. Music and dancing are important at these celebrations, with some aspects having a more pagan origin, or being based in superstition.

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Nightlife

Many people visit Greece, particularly its islands, because of the famous nightlife. Start with dinner at a local taverna, then relax in a bar with a drink and some music. It is at midnight when the clubs open and the partying really begins, and you can dance until dawn.

This may help you begin to understand something about the Greek lifestyle and culture, although there is always more to learn.