Essential Insights Before Visiting the Greek Islands
There are several important things to know before stepping onto any of the Greek islands. One of the most notable aspects is the renowned hospitality of the Greek people, which has roots that trace back thousands of years to ancient Greek times. The ancient Greek concept of Xenia, or Philoxenia, meaning “friendship with strangers,” embodies the principles of hospitality, generosity, and courtesy shown to those away from home who seek rest and refuge.
In modern Greece, this notion runs much deeper than just a cultural formality; it is an unwritten law that emphasizes kindness and generosity towards foreigners. Greeks are exceptionally welcoming, whether they are inviting others into their homes or receiving guests themselves. Philoxenia can manifest in various ways, such as a warm smile, assisting a lost tourist, or serving complimentary appetizers to diners at a restaurant.
The Vibrant Communication Style
Upon arriving in Greece, one of the first things you might notice is the elevated tone of voice adopted by everyone. In some countries, people gesture to capture attention; in others, they rearrange words for emphasis. In Greece, however, people often raise their voices. Those unfamiliar with the Greek language might mistakenly think that two passersby are about to engage in a quarrel when, in fact, they are likely just expressing their grievances about public transportation.
Some speculate that this boisterous communication style stems from the nation’s maritime history, where sailors had to shout to be heard above the waves. Others suggest it relates to the mountainous terrain, where shepherds needed to communicate across ravines.
Greek Culinary Contributions
Forget moussaka, yogurt, or tzatziki; perhaps the most significant contribution of the Greeks to international cuisine is the frappé—a cold coffee served with ice cubes, making it the perfect companion for a lengthy relaxation on a sunbed. Legend has it that the frappé was invented by an anonymous barista in the early 1960s during the Thessaloniki Trade Fair, when a power outage made it impossible to brew traditional coffee.
What to Avoid Saying in Greece
As author James Michener once remarked, “If you reject food, ignore customs, fear religion, and avoid people, you might as well stay home.” If you are not planning to engage with the locals and learn interesting stories about their lives, it may be best to reconsider a trip to Greece. Here, interactions are deeply personal. You come for the landscapes and food, but you return for the people.
There are certain things you should avoid saying while in Greece. For instance, refrain from making sarcastic remarks about the Greek custom of sharing from the same plate. Dining from a communal dish is a common practice in Greece. While many restaurants will provide individual plates, the sociable nature of Greeks often leads them to share a variety of small dishes, which undoubtedly strengthens social bonds.
The Use of Olive Oil
Additionally, avoid commenting on the amount of olive oil used in dishes. Yes, Greeks tend to be generous with their use of olive oil, which is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine and an essential part of their culinary identity.
Cooking with Olive Oil
Using a generous amount of oil while cooking is a common practice in Greece, with reports suggesting that Greeks consume around 23 liters of olive oil annually. While this may seem excessive, olive oil is packed with antioxidants and is considered one of the best sources of monounsaturated fats. The traditional Greek diet is largely vegetable-based, which helps balance the oil consumption with the amount of vegetables eaten. Furthermore, olive oil is a key reason why Greek cuisine is so flavorful, so if you’re concerned about calories, remember that there is usually some oil left on your plate after finishing your meal, meaning you don’t consume it all.
The Revered Feta Cheese
When it comes to feta cheese, it is a staple in many Greek dishes, and asking whether it’s included can be seen as inappropriate. While feta cheese is prevalent, it is not the only cheese found in Greece. The country is renowned for its high cheese consumption, and feta’s versatility contributes to its frequent use. However, there are numerous other cheeses available throughout Greece, alongside various local varieties. Therefore, if you are a cheese enthusiast, you know which country should be next on your travel list.
Don’t Ask for Ketchup
Requesting ketchup in a taverna is not offensive, but it is considered unusual by many Greeks. Traditional Greek cuisine, particularly fried potatoes, is typically not served with ketchup, as it has only become a popular condiment in the last 40 years. While you can easily find ketchup in fast-food chains and more westernized restaurants, traditional tavernas generally do not offer this condiment. However, due to the significance of tourism, it is not uncommon to find tavernas in heavily visited urban areas that will provide ketchup upon request. Nonetheless, eating fried potatoes with ketchup while enjoying traditional dishes is seen as odd by the locals.
Ancient Gods and Modern Beliefs
Although a small segment of the Greek population still worships ancient gods and advocates for the restoration of the ancient polytheistic religion, the majority of Greeks do not. Greece is primarily a Greek Orthodox country, with a few other faiths coexisting in smaller communities. It is advisable not to ask a Greek if they worship the ancient gods, as this could be taken as disrespectful.
Cultural Sensitivity Regarding Names
Asking about the name of a newborn can be more of a cultural faux pas than an offense. Traditionally, Greeks do not name their infants until after they have been baptized. Until that special day, a baby boy is referred to as “bebe,” while a baby girl is called “beba.”
Taboo Topics: The Turks
The historical animosity between Greece and Turkey is not a recent development. Despite both sides often denying it, there exists a notable degree of tension between the two nations. Bringing up this topic could unnecessarily create discomfort in a conversation.
Avoid Ordering Turkish Coffee
When in Greece, it is best to refrain from ordering Turkish coffee, as it can be a sensitive subject.
Understanding Greek and Turkish Coffee Culture
When discussing coffee in Greece, it is important to refer to it as Greek coffee, while in Turkey, it should be called Turkish coffee. This distinction, although seemingly minor, is significant in these cultures.
The Historical Context of Istanbul
Historically, the city known today as Istanbul was called Constantinople during the Byzantine era, named after Emperor Constantine, who established it as the capital of the Byzantine Christian Empire. Following the Ottoman conquest in 1453, the city was renamed Istanbul, derived from the phrase “εἰς τὴν Πόλιν” or “to the city,” which was how the Greeks referred to it. This historical transition remains a sensitive topic for many Greeks, and it is advisable to approach it with care.
Avoiding Sensitive Topics: The Name of Macedonia
Another sensitive issue pertains to the name of Macedonia. The situation surrounding the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) is complex. Greece has its own region named Macedonia and does not recognize the northern neighbor’s claim to the name following its independence in 1991. It is best to avoid delving into this topic during conversations.
Debunking the Myth of Greek Laziness
A common stereotype that has been reinforced by recent economic challenges is the belief that Greeks are lazy. However, statistics from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) indicate that Greeks actually work some of the longest hours in Europe, averaging 40 hours per week in 2013, compared to the EU average of 37.2 hours. Moreover, Greeks typically take fewer vacations than their German, Italian, or Swedish counterparts. This misconception may arise from their sociable nature and tendency to linger over coffee during social gatherings. While the 9-to-5 work schedule is common in private sectors, public servants and those in the food industry often have different hours. Enjoying life does not equate to laziness, and it is wise to steer clear of this stereotype in conversations.
Exploring the Beauty of Greece
Regardless of these sensitive topics, visitors are encouraged to relish all that Greece has to offer, from the stories shared by locals to the delicious seafood, breathtaking landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and unique beaches.
Beaches in Greece Close to Romania
Greece is a true paradise, renowned for its prices, hospitality, fresh and divine cuisine, tranquil beaches, fine sand, and perfectly warm waters. Below is a list of the beaches in Greece that are closest to Romania:
- Paralika Katerini (750 km)
- Kavala (500 km)
- Halkidiki Peninsula (760 km)
- Asprovalta & Nea Vrasna (680 km)
- Olympiaki Akti (Olimpia – 750 km)
- Alexandroupoli (450 km)
Exploring Greece’s Coastal Destinations
Greece is renowned for its stunning coastal towns and beautiful beaches, attracting visitors from around the world. Among the popular destinations are Nea Peramos, located 510 kilometers away; Olympiada at 620 kilometers; and Platamonas, which is 720 kilometers distant. Other notable spots include Leptokarya at 710 kilometers, Makrygialos at 650 kilometers, and Fanari, situated 428 kilometers from the Romanian border.
For those willing to venture a bit further, the beach in Elafonisi is particularly famous for its unique pink sand. The journey from Bucharest to Elafonisi takes approximately 24 hours by car, covering a distance of 1,569 kilometers.
Travel Insights
These destinations not only offer picturesque landscapes but also a glimpse into the rich culture and history of Greece. Each location is distinct in its charm and allure, making them ideal choices for travelers looking to experience the beauty of the Greek coastline.
