Greece (Ellas or Ellada), officially – the Hellenic Republic, is located in the southeast of Europe, at the southern end of the Balkan Peninsula, in the eastern Mediterranean. Capital of Greece – the legendary city of Athens, with a population of around 11 million. Followed by Thessaloniki, which is commonly referred to as the co-capital. Greece has one of the longest histories of any country, tracing its roots to the civilization of Ancient Greece, which is considered the cradle of all Western civilization; its legacy includes democracy, Western philosophy, the Olympic Games, Western literature, historiography, political science, medicine, major scientific and mathematical principles, and Western drama, including both tragedy and comedy.
The climate of Greece can be divided into the following Mediterranean climate subtypes:
Mediterranean (dry and wet)
This climate occurs in the Aegean Islands, especially the Cyclades and the Dodecanese, southern and Evian, low-lying areas of Attica, the western, eastern and southern low-lying Peloponnese areas, and the low-lying areas of Crete. During the summer, the weather is most frequently sunny and dry, and any precipitation falls in the form of showers or thunderstorms from cumuliform clouds. The air is usually hot during the day and pleasantly warm at night, but there are some very windy days, especially in the Cyclades islands and around them. Heat waves may occur, but they are usually quite mild at the coastal areas, where temperatures are moderated by the relatively cooler sea and the sea breeze. Winters are wet and any snow that falls does not last long, especially in the south-facing slopes. Rain in winter is often persistent: The west areas of this climate zone receive a relatively higher amount of precipitation.
Alpine Mediterranean
In this climate, the winter is harsh with abundant snowfalls, while the summers are cool with frequent thunderstorms. This climate is to be found on high mountains, like Pindus and Rhodope. Few meteorological stations are in areas with a truly Alpine Mediterranean climate in Greece and these are not available online.
Transitional continental- Mediterranean
This climate has characteristics of both continental and Mediterranean climate.
Highest and lowest temperatures ever recorded −27.8 °C, 48.0 °C.
The modern Greek currency drachma was replaced by the euro in 2001 (at the rate of 340.750 drachma to the euro). The euro did not begin circulating until 2002 but the exchange rate was fixed on 19 June 2000, with legal introduction of the euro taking place in January 2002.
Greece is a unitary state. “The official ideology of the Greek State has been built almost exclusively around the concept of a single nation, with a common creed and language. This incontrovertible fact is reflected in, amongst other things, all the constitutions by which the country has been governed. Thus, the Greek state has been acknowledging the existence of only one, religious in character, minority, that of the Muslims of Thrace whose rights have been guaranteed by the 1923 Treaty of Lausanne.
There is no formal legal definition of national minority or simply minority in Greece.
The percentage of foreign populations in Greece is as high as 8.4% in proportion to the total population of the country. As of 2012 Albanian migrants constitute some 55–60% or more of the immigrant population. More recent immigrant groups, from the mid-1990s on, consist of Asian nationalities especially Pakistani and Bangladeshi. As of 2012 till now with illegal migration flows through Turkey of Afghans, Iranians, Iraqis, Somali and others.
Greece is used as a gateway to the Schengen Area by flows of illegal immigrants, especially those originating from the Middle East. Neighboring Turkey is also involved in the issue, since the majority of the illegal immigrants are reaching Greece from that country. Characteristically, Turkish official policy sees the flow of immigrants to Greece as a main factor of conducting foreign policy. The Turkish government officially adopts the "Özal doctrine", initiated by former Turkish Prime Minister, Turgut Özal. The latter characteristically stated that:
“We do not need to make war with Greece. We just need to send them a few millions illegal immigrants from Turkey and finish with them”.
Most of the illegal immigrants are passing the Greek-Turkish borders with the tolerance or even the assistance of the authorities in Turkey regardless the bilateral agreements that have been approved for this matter since 2003. Moreover, the fact that the Turkish authorities are not complying with the terms of the signed agreements is creating several problems during the procedures of surrender of the illegal immigrants in the border areas. Non-cooperation by the Turkish side is also evident, despite the existence of specific proofs in several cases (i.e. Turkish smugglers of illegal immigrants arrested by Greek authorities).
The uncontrolled flow of immigrants from Turkey to Greece results, among others, in a number of negative social and political consequences: destabilization of social cohesion through demographic change, as well as encouragement of the spread of organized crime and terrorist networks. For example, a high level terrorist of Al-Qaeda who passed the Greek borders from Turkey was arrested in his attempt to receive political asylum in the country.
The official language spoken to Greece is Greek but for the biggest part of the population speaks more than one language. The most common foreign languages learned by Greeks are English, German, French and Italian.
There are many stereotypes surrounding individual nations. The stereotypes may have kernels of truth to them, but they are not wholly correct, and so are heavily misleading. In some cases, negative stereotypes have been spread by one country in order to discredit another. Sometimes countries may promote national stereotypes about themselves in order to instill a sense of patriotism.
There are many ways to describe Greek people, they are communicative, caring, easy-going, hospitable, friendly, generous, smiley, sensual, affectionate, humorous, passionate, smashing plates while dancing, macho men. But in the eye of a foreigner Greeks are: Loud, Hairy, Carefree, Smokers, Mamma’s boys and daddy’s girls and all Greeks steal.
In Greece there are three Major business cities.
• Athens is the capital and largest city in Greece, and has a population over 700,000. It is one of the world’s oldest cities, with a recorded history of over 3,400 years. Its larger metropolitan area stretches to incorporate over 4 million people, making Athens one of the biggest metropolitan areas of Europe. It is an alpha world city that is the cultural, economic and administrative center of the coutry of Greece. Athens is turning into a major business center, and it’s a very rich, expensive city for the most part. Despite its modern importance, Athens is of course more famous for its influence from Ancient Greece, being the home of many Greek philosophers and to a proto-democracy. If you’re in the right part of town, you can view not only many famous remanents of Ancient Greek Architecture, but also Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman monuments.
• Thessaloniki is the second largest city in Greece, with a population of 348,000. This it said to be the hippest Greek city. It is also famous for having beautiful beaches. It hosts cultural events. It used to be the royal co-capital of the Byzantine Empire. After Athens, this city is the second biggest economic, cultural, industral and administrative center of Greece. The city has historical monuments from Jewish, Ottoman and Byzantine settlement. Thessaloniki lies on the northern part of the Thermaic Gulf, in northern Greece. It is a huge port city, so there is a lot of economic activity.
• Piraeus is the third largest Greek city, with about 170,000 inhabitants. Piraeus is situated on the Saronic Gulf, and is part of the greater Athens area. It is the largest passenger port in Europe, and the third largest in the whole world. It is also the center of Greek commercial shipping. The city has a large spectacle of different neighborhoods. There are several archeological sites around the city, such as the ancient gate to the harbor, Eetioneia. It is also a huge sports center of Greece.
Greece is the 64th largest export economy in the world and the 48th most complex economy according to the Economic Complexity Index (ECI). Despite the fact that the economic crisis in Greece has continued this year, exports remained almost at the same levels as the previous year.
Greece main exports are mineral products, metals, food and live animals. Others include: chemicals, machinery and equipment, miscellaneous products and crude materials except fuel.
The top exports of Greece are Refined Petroleum, Packaged Medicaments, Pure Olive Oil, Aluminum Plating and Non-fillet Fresh Fish, using the 1992 revision of the HS (Harmonized System) classification.
The top export destinations of Greece are Turkey, Italy, Germany, Bulgaria and Cyprus.
Greece main imports are mineral products, chemical products and machinery. Others include: metals, foodstuff, transportation, animal products, textiles and miscellaneous products.
The top imports of Greece are petroleum oil, pharmaceuticals, machinery, electronic equipment and ships, boats, using the 1992 revision of the HS (Harmonized System) classification.
The top import origins are Russia, Germany, Italy, Iraq and China.
Greek communication varies from place to place but they tend to stand much closer to each other, this distance becomes greater when interacting with strangers and less when interacting with friends and family. Also they have far stronger eye contact than many other cultures. It is important that you are not intimidated by these issues, as lack of strong eye contact or maintaining too great a distance could be misconstrued as standoffishness or untrustworthiness. Direct eye contact is expected and appreciated. It is viewed as a sign of interest and respect towards the speaker.
Greeks tend to speak quite loudly and with a lot of emotion. At times it may appear as if they are yelling and annoyed but it is most likely a normal tone of voice.
There is a fair amount of touching between men and men, and women and women and men and women while conversing. Public displays of affection are quite common between genders. Firm handshakes are frequent between co-workers, and a lot of times patting of the shoulder or back is also frequent even among people who are relatively unfamiliar with each other. As a formal gesture (for example when greeting co-workers at a function outside the work environment), males and females will greet each other with a kiss on both cheeks. Females and females may also do this, but males and males usually just shake hands.
In general, physical contact is important in establishing a rapport. When it comes to hand gestures, it is best to avoid an open palm directed at someone’s face, as this is an insult. Having your back turned to someone is also not a good gesture. It can be considered rude to back up or away from someone while they are speaking.
Expressing one’s emotions and feelings in your gestures and behaviors are an acceptable thing in Greece. Walking in Athens, for example, you will see couples kissing, walking together hand in hand. Going to a work meeting with Greeks means that disagreements may arise and it may be vivid, but not violent. Business is conducted by all modern means but traditionally is often done over a cup of coffee or a working lunch or dinner in a restaurant (tavern). Accepting more food as part of the meal is a compliment to your host.
As with many other southern European countries, business structures in Greece have traditionally veered towards the strictly hierarchical. As most organizations have either been government-run or family-owned firms, this tendency towards a hierarchical approach is hardly surprising! (The Greek economy has always been characterized by small, family based and managed enterprises or self-employment – with a large service sector supporting a small manufacturing base.)
Therefore, unless you are dealing with the subsidiary of a multi-national, it is best to expect that the organization you are dealing with will have an extremely centralized decision-making approach with all decisions of any importance being made by a few key individuals at the top of the company. Spend the time to understand the hierarchy of the organization you are dealing with so that time is not wasted negotiating with the wrong person — things can take long enough to come to fruition anyway.
Even when working with the subsidiary of a multi-national in Greece, the mindset of the company's local employees could still veer towards a hierarchical structure which might not seem to exist on paper.
In business meetings there is no specific dress code. However, it is advisable to dress conservatively in business meetings, a dark colored suit for men and professional outfit for women, preferably in dark or subtle colors, avoiding provocative clothing. In some cases, depending on the situation or business area, less formal clothing is acceptable. In the summer months, the weather is very hot, especially in the big cities, it is acceptable to just wear a shirt with trousers and in most cases to not wear a tie. Women can be lightly dressed, avoiding tight clothing. In Greece, first impressions are based largely on the way one is dressed, so this can make a big difference. In many ways, Greece is a thoroughly integrated European country. Greeks wear clothes that are in good condition and are sized properly as well as items that you consider slightly too dressy for everyday wear at home, as Grecian residents often tend to dress stylishly. As throughout Europe so in Greece Church often uphold a strict dress code for visitors. The official rule for monasteries and churches is no pants for women, no shorts for men, knees and shoulders covered. Be sure to dress appropriately by wearing a shirt with sleeves, or by covering your shoulders with a shawl before entering the church and ensuring that you have on long pants, shorts or a skirt that reach well below your knees a certain level of respect is expected.
Gift giving in Greece is seen as a kind gesture. Greeks like to exchange gifts for Christmas, birthdays, and name days. However, since gifts are generally reciprocated, a gift of great value could put a burden on the recipient to spend an equivalent amount of money on you in return. Therefore, a small gift would be greatly appreciated. When invited over for dinner to a Greek home, flowers, sweets or a bottle of wine or liquor are the gifts most frequently offered.
In Greece, gifts are not essential to business relationships and Greeks do not normally expect to exchange gifts on a first meeting. Nevertheless, an occasional gift (mostly at Christmas and Easter) will be very much appreciated. An excellent bottle of liquor or wine, office accessories, fine chocolate, are examples of gifts often offered in business interactions. Gifts are usually nicely wrapped and opened right away.
Greece offers many leisure and entertainment pursuits for visitors of all ages. There are many wonderful restaurants and bars in the tourist resorts as well as in the major cities. Wine tourism is a popular pursuit in Greece, which was home to the God of wine, Dionysus. There are many regions across the country, which produce some excellent wines. Amazing scenery from mountain ranges to secluded bays makes it an obvious choice for nature lovers and its lively nightlife makes it a magnet for young party-goers alike. Greek entertainment includes numerous archaeological sites, museums and galleries.
Greece entertainment is an ideal mix of tradition with modernity. The theaters and cinemas and concerts in Greece give a feel of the rich civilization. Greek Amphitheaters are unique. The performers stage a play in a open boundary and the audience seated at a higher level enjoy the show. On the other hand, the bars, cafes and clubs all over the country, are a major source of Greece entertainment. The capital city of Athens has some of the finest clubs in the country.
The restaurants and taverns are also a major source of entertainment in Greece, especially for food lovers. Tourists get a chance to taste authentic Greek cuisine rich in traditional flavor and taste. Apart from this, these restaurants and taverns also serve Indian, Chinese, middle eastern and Thai cuisine.
Athens has a numerous bars, cafes and clubs. Some of these bars are situated in picturesque locations. Tourists can unwind after a tiring day, by sipping a drink and watching the sunset by the Aegean Sea. For a musical evening, the tourists can choose any of the music clubs. These music clubs play music ranging from hip hop to the traditional Greek bouzouki.
Greece entertainment for children comes in the form of colorful fun fairs or 'Luna Parks'. Teenagers can enjoy roller skating, bowling and many such activities.
The open air cinemas, during the summer months are an unique source of Greece entertainment. It is indeed thrilling to enjoy the latest blockbusters under the star filled sky. Several theaters organize musical concerts throughout the year. Watching concerts in Lycabettos Theater in Athens is once a lifetime opportunity.
In the recent years, nightlife in Greece has taken an upswing with the new casinos, nightclubs and bars popping up everywhere in the city. Most of the casinos are lined up with the luxury hotels of Greece. The Casino Xanthi in Northern Greece is a world famous name.
There are a number of international organizations in the main cities and islands that arrange walks, social evenings, get-togethers and charity events. Activities, depending on your location, include walking, climbing, water sports, diving, sailing, fishing, flying, golf, horse riding, bowling, gym and dance classes.
Greece is considered to be a shopper's paradise. Shopping in Greece is a fascinating experience. From wine and herbs to expensive jewelry Greece has everything. Some of the best buys of Greece are antique jewelry, sponges, fur coats, leather sandals bags and jackets. Quality stuff at reasonable prices are available in the huge departmental stores.
Shopping in Greece is an enjoyable and a memorable experience. Greece is a shopper's paradise and the range of items includes clothing, jewelry and also traditional Greek products like wines, pottery, religious icons and embroidery.
Shoppers are amazed by the reasonable price and the good product quality. The shopping hours in Greece are 8.30 to 17.00 hrs on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday. On Tuesday, Thursday and Friday it is from 8.30 to 14.00hrs and after a short break resumes from 17:30hrs and stretches up to 20:30hrs. Sunday most of the shops are closed, except for those around the Plaka and the Monastiraki area. During the festive seasons like Christmas the shopping hours change accordingly.
The capital city of Athens has an excellent selection of shops. The Ermou Street located in the heart of Athens is a wonderful place to shop for clothes. The variety ranges from internationally renowned brands, standalone exclusive boutiques and also clothing which are locally tailored. Cigarettes, newspapers and magazines are available in the small kiosks littered in and around the street corners. These are open for 24 hours. The district of Kolonaki, located right at the foot of Lycabitus Hill is a one of the main shopping destinations in Greece. This shopping area in Greece is dotted with large number of cafes, where the impulsive shoppers can enjoy refreshment.
Nightlife in Greece is fast, vibrant, colorful and fast paced. Greeks are born to party, they have ample fascination for music and drinks. Numerous bars, cafes, nightclubs and casinos are an integral part of the nightlife in Greece. The nightlife in Greece starts from 11 pm in the night and stretches till the dawn.
Cultural dos and don'ts in Greece
Greetings. It’s customary to shake hands when you greet people (for men and women). If you know someone well, they may go in for a hug or a kiss – or both!)
Yes and no. So this is a bit confusing. The Greek word for “yes” is “nai”. And the word for “no” is “okhi”. Obviously these can get confused with “no” and “okay”. Also, head nods are done slightly differently – just a downward tilted thrust for yes, and an upwards thrust with a click of the tongue for no. Try and be clear in whichever language you try and speak, and add a clarifying sentence (i.e. “yes, I would like the desert menu”) to make things clear.
Gestures. Don’t put your hand, palm forwards, in someone’s face. It’s really rude. So no “talk to the hand” moments. The “okay” sign with touching finger and thumb is also considered rude.
Physical affection. People in Greece are often a bit touchy-feely. This means it’s common for someone to touch your arm during conversation, or when walking along. For those unused to this kind of physical contact it can be a bit uncomfortable, but be assured it’s meant to make you feel included and welcome.
Dining. Food is important in Greece, and eating a meal is a social event. If you are invited for dinner, you are expected to take time over it, and stay and talk and relax for at least an hour after the meal. You should also bring a small gift if you are invited to someone’s house for dinner. If you’re eating out, the host will usual pay. You should offer, but not insist.
Dancing. Often becomes a part of the dining experience. Join in. It’s fun (honest!) and will be appreciated.
Smoking. Smoking is prohibited in many places, but may happen anyway. People will think it strange if you ask them to stop smoking in a public place.
Timing. It’s a bit weird if you’re on time in Greece. If you’re invited for dinner, you should really turn up half an hour later. Most social appointments will work like that – the person you meet will likely arrive much later than the appointed time. However, for business, timing is more important – although this rule seems to apply more to non-Greeks than Greeks.
Conversation. Don’t start up conversations about politics, or local issues. These can often be sensitive subjects.
The evil eye. Some people are still very superstitious (especially rural areas). Try not to stare at someone – even if it’s in admiration!
Engage. Get involved, have fun, meet people, start conversations, dance – all of it. In general, people in Greek enjoy a lust for life and will respond well if you make an effort to really engage.
Covering up. On beaches and in tourist areas, people are very used to seeing visitors wandering around in all sorts of outfits. However, in more rural areas, or formal places, it is expected that people will dress a bit more conservatively. Cover up your shoulders and knees if you’re visiting places away from the beach. If you want to visit a church, it’s important that you dress modestly – you may not be allowed to enter otherwise.
Visiting churches. If you are visiting a Greek Orthodox service, the best thing to do is to try and copy what others are doing – i.e. stand and sit when others do. If you’re not comfortable doing this, it makes more sense to wait outside until the service has finished. Inside a church, don’t go exploring at the back in the sanctuary, this area is strictly for priests.
Don't talk about politics, especially in the early stages of a relationship
Don't mention Cyprus and Turkey, even if relations have improved, they’re touchy subjects
Don't categorize Greece as part of Eastern Europe
Don't say anything negative about Greek food, coffee or anything else
Don't make the “okay” sign with an index finger and thumb, Greeks use it as a rude gesture
Don't raise an open palm at or above face level, it’s an insult in Greece
Do drink moderately, enjoy the food, the sunshine and the lifestyle