Tips for visiting Greece

Having just travelled to Greece for a short holiday, certain things I'd forgotten came crashing back into my consciousness with a thump. There are just a few, but important, things people visiting Greece need to remember, especially if they're going for the first time:

1. The most important thing is: Don't put toilet paper in the toilet! I know it defies logic and hygiene standards, but Greek sewerage piping has yet to recognise the need for loo paper. I always forget this one. D'oh!

2. Don't make any assumptions about customer service! For example, if it's a hot day (and in summer it will be!!) don't assume your drink will be cold! You have to ask for a cold one. If you don't ask (or specify), you don't get.

3. Don't expect drivers to care about your safety, even if you have the right of way. Chaos rules on the Greek roads, and even an old man riding a donkey can be a danger to an unsuspecting pedestrian.

4. If you're in a queue, mind no-one pushes in. Greeks don't really give a shit who was there first, as long as they get served. So, be loud and rude if you need to - you'll probably be respected for it!

5. If you're a tourist visiting a touristy area, such as the Greek islands, don't expect people to not try and take advantage of you. Stick to the shops and places that are recommended via word of mouth, or by reputable books and sites. Question the authenticity, the freshness, the amount. And haggle where possible.

6. Give yourself plenty of time for everything. Greek efficiency is an oxymoron; don't expect anything to be done in a timely or organised way. If you stress about running late you won't last long in Greece.

7. Relax, sit back, and enjoy! Greece is one of the most wonderful cultures and places to visit in the world. The food, the music, the lifestyle, the historical sites, and the views (especially on the islands) offer a unique sensory experience. If you go with the flow, rather than having expectations that things should happen in a certain way, you'll get a great deal more from your Hellenic stint than you would otherwise.

The importance of being close to family

I just caught up with my family in Greece. I hadn't seen them in over a year, and it was wonderful to spend time with them. Small things, like being able to see their facial expressions as they related anecdotes, or giving them a spontaneous kiss, were priceless.

Being Greek means family ties are super strong. Whether you like it or not, you can't get away from family, no matter how far you travel. They love you no matter what they say, or what you do. They are always thinking about you, and worrying, even if you break their hearts.

It's made me really think about what's important. I am so lucky to have the family I do. Despite their idiosyncrasies and biases, I adore them. And I know that they cherish me. At the end of the day I know they will always be there for me, no matter what happens. And I don't want to be too far away from them, not for too long. Phone and email contact are just no replacement for hugging my Dad, or leaning my head on my Mum's shoulder. Something tells me this coming Christmas at home is going to be a special one...

Reading 'Fast Food Nation' and feeling sickened and appalled

I'm in the middle of reading Eric Schlosser's 'Fast Food Nation'. It's a book I probably should have read years ago, but it's only now made its way into my hands. I'm assuming a lot of people have already read it. If not, they should! It's an indictment against the whole fast food industry, the meat packaging industry, and more. It exposes a lot of disgusting, underhand and morally devoid goings-on in these industries.

It's really made me think about how we, as consumers, completely take it for granted that we're being sold decent, hygienically prepared foods and goods. The truth is, we're not. I'm starting to re-evaluate what I buy and eat... I am feeling more encouraged than ever to support local and organic. And to absolutely avoid processed and fast foods.

I am really saddened and angered that the industries portrayed in this book are so indifferent to the health and wellbeing of their animals, their workers, and their consumers. They commit atrocities in the name of profit. I found myself cursing the executives behind these industries to hell time and again while reading this book. And I'm sure this is just an example of what the big bad business world out there is like. I'm really glad I'm not caught up in it, at least I hope I'm not!

I strongly encourage everyone to read this book, and think about what they're buying, eating, and feeding their kids. Happy meals? My ass!