In good old Greece, where there is absolutely everything, there are enough customs and traditions. Acquaintance with them can take the lion's share of the time spent on vacation or vacations spent here. Delicate companions, pleasant companions for relaxation, partners for dancing or guides to memorable places, the Greeks constitute the gold reserve of their country and are of no less interest to those studying the traditions of Greece than ancient temples or statues.
Order and order
The typical day of the average Greek is subject to a routine that he adheres to throughout his life. The inhabitants of this country are quite conservative and prefer not to change once and for all established habits, friends, and even the lunch menu. Wake up early and morning coffee are in the tradition of Greece and its people, as well as an afternoon siesta. By two o'clock in the afternoon in the country everything freezes in order to re-earn, open up, start playing and sound after five in the evening.
After returning from work, Greek men spend some time with their family, and then go to a tavern, where they can chat with friends over a glass of wine until nightfall.
Reading lips
Some gestures in communication between Greeks and each other are very different from our usual ones, and therefore it is worth knowing them in order not to get into an ambiguous position. A Greek who wants to refuse you will throw his head back slightly, narrow his eyes a little and cluck his tongue. If the interlocutor wants to take a word in the dialogue, he will put his index finger to his lips, and wanting to clarify a point, he will raise his eyebrows and turn his head from side to side several times.
Useful little things
Finding yourself face to face with the manifestations of the traditions of Greece and the customs of its inhabitants, one should not be afraid of misunderstanding. As a rule, Greeks are guided by the generally accepted laws of hospitality, which are close to a person from any continent:
- After accepting an invitation from a local to have a drink at a nearby tavern or dine at a restaurant, you shouldn't even try to get money and pay the bill. This may not only offend your counterpart, but sadden him to tears.
- When planning a visit to a Greek family, bring along small souvenirs such as chocolates, flowers or toys for children. This will serve as a sign of your location and will help to establish pleasant contact with all members of the family.
- Some non-punctuality is in the traditions of Greece. A half-hour late even for a business meeting is in the order of things here, and therefore you should not be upset about this and show your impatience or dissatisfaction.
