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.
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> 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!
That's not Greece - that's mainland Europe in general...
Good queuing is the unique domain of the British !
Maybe so but I reckon they're worse in Greece...
And it's not just good queuing the British are renowned for; it's queuing regardless of the apparent need for it! (I got that out of "Watching the English" by Kate Fox. You should read it! :))
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