Greece is a country that many consider ancient and mysterious. Today, it is not only a nation with rapidly developing economy, politics, and culture, but also a highly popular vacation destination with a thriving tourism industry. Greece is world-renowned for its cultural heritage and breathtaking Mediterranean scenery. In Greece, you can gaze at the endless, majestic mountain ranges and experience spectacular mountain vistas; you can embrace the picturesque Aegean Sea and feel the sweet, romantic charm of love. After immigrating to Greece by purchasing property, as you stroll through this romantic country, it is essential to understand local customs and taboos to better experience life in Greece.
1. Greeks pay great attention to neatness in dress, especially the middle-aged and elderly, who prefer attire that is dignified and elegant. In formal social settings, men typically wear dark suits with ties or bow ties.
2. Greeks are elegant in their manners and have many specific customs. They do not use gestures like waving or beckoning, as they consider these to be acts of contempt; the closer the hand is to the other person's face, the more insulting it is. They also believe that staring at someone for a long time is a sign of ill intent. Sneezing in public or wiping one's nose with a handkerchief are also highly taboo.
3. Generally, Greeks greet guests with a handshake in social situations. When meeting others on the street, even if they are strangers, Greeks will greet them to show friendliness. If the road is narrow, they always yield to others, especially to foreigners.
4. Greeks primarily eat pasta and occasionally rice. They enjoy beef and lamb, and common vegetables include tomatoes and potatoes. Dinner in Greece starts quite late; in Athens, dinner usually begins after 10:00 PM. They enjoy Turkish coffee and are fond of alcohol, drinking at both lunch and dinner, often to the point of mild intoxication.
5. The best months for business activities in Greece are from September to May of the following year. It is best to avoid traveling around Christmas. When meeting, local business people will usually offer you a cup of thick coffee, which should not be refused. Greeks are cheerful and hospitable; they may speak with great excitement, but they mean no harm. If the other party is speaking at length, it is best to listen respectfully.
6. Greeks avoid the number 13 and Fridays, considering them unlucky. They do not like the color black, nor do they like cats, especially black cats. When visiting a Greek home, avoid over-praising any specific item.
7. Most Greeks practice Greek Orthodoxy. Women entering a church must wear long skirts (arms must be covered) and must not walk behind the altar.
8. As ancient Greece was one of the four great ancient civilizations, modern Greeks have a strong affinity for China, which also has a long history. Therefore, Chinese people will find many topics to discuss with them. However, while there are many topics, one should avoid certain subjects, such as Greek domestic politics and the relationship between Greece and Cyprus.
9. Greeks do not use beckoning or waving gestures, as these are considered acts of contempt and imply telling someone to "go to hell." To say goodbye, they typically wave with the back of the hand facing the other person.
10. When taking photos in Greece, you must never set up a tripod without regard for others. The Greek government has regulations requiring official permission to set up a tripod. This rule exists because authorities believe that anyone using a tripod must be a professional photographer, and they are concerned that professional photographers setting up "elaborate" shots might use the images for commercial purposes.
11. Greeks avoid sneezing, as they consider it unlucky. If they hear a sneeze upon waking in the morning, some will immediately return to bed to avoid bad luck.
12. Greek folklore reveres snakes, regarding them as divine, and salt is considered a sacred object. During religious offerings, it is taboo to lack salt. 13. Those who practice Islam are prohibited from eating pork or using pork products.