Driven by the sales of Greek properties, the number of immigrants to Greece continues to rise. After immigrating to Greece, the following details of daily life will help you navigate your new life with ease.
1. When socializing with Greeks, if you are offered a drink (usually coffee or Greek spirits), do not refuse abruptly, as this may be perceived as an insult.
2. Most Greeks are Greek Orthodox. When entering a church, women must wear long skirts (arms should not be exposed) and must not walk behind the altar.
3. As ancient Greece is one of the four ancient civilizations, modern Greeks have a strong affinity for China, which also shares a long history. Therefore, Chinese people will find many topics to discuss with them. However, while there are many topics, it is best to avoid certain subjects, such as Greek domestic politics and the relationship between Greece and Cyprus.
4. Greeks do not use waving gestures, as waving is considered a derogatory act, implying that someone should "go to hell." To say goodbye, they typically wave with the back of the hand facing the other person.
5. When taking photos in Greece, you must never set up a tripod without permission. The Greek government has regulations requiring official approval to set up a tripod. This is because the authorities believe that anyone using a tripod is likely a professional photographer, and they are concerned that professional photographers may use the images for commercial purposes.
6. Greeks consider sneezing to be unlucky. If someone sneezes upon waking in the morning, some may immediately return to bed to avoid bad luck.
7. Greek folklore reveres snakes as divine and considers salt a sacred object. It is considered taboo to be without salt when making offerings to the gods.
8. Greeks avoid the number "13" and "Friday." They also avoid cats, believing they lead people to the underworld, and avoid the color black, which is associated with death.
9. Those who practice Islam are prohibited from consuming pork or using pork products.
Respecting local customs will help you avoid many unnecessary troubles in your life as an immigrant in Greece.