National traditions of Greece. Habits, mentality and the way of living

The wonderful climate, the history full of events and the antique heritage influenced the mentality of the Greeks. These people prefer to live today. They love and know how to enjoy their life. The Greeks have a special attitude to money. Everyone wants to become rich, to earn a large amount of money, but not all are ready to work hard to achieve their goal. This is why lotteries are so popular in the country. Local people traditionally buy scratch-offs. The Greeks know how to spend money in a posh way. They buy luxury clothes, expensive cars, and entertainment stuff. It’s not customary to save money and postpone fun for later.

Traditional dances in Greece are kochari, sirtaki, and hasapiko. Dances are treated with a special veneration, as they are an important part of the culture of this people. Locals share happiness with their dances. People can express all the pain and sorrow in their gestures. Sirtaki is one of the symbols of Greek culture. However, the dance was invented in the 60s of the 20th century. Surprisingly, it’s not a folk dance. The music for sirtaki was based on folk songs, sirtos. The modern Greek culture is based on folk songs; people honor and respect their ancestors. The Greeks are very proud of being descendants of Hellenes. Also, they are proud of the fact that they continued to fight in times of world wars, when the rest of Europe has capitulated. For centuries, they compelled to defend themselves against attacks from Turkey. Locals know how to appreciate and respect their own freedom and struggle for it.

The Greeks are very temperamental and emotional people. During a conversation, they often communicate in a high tone and actively gesture and touch each other. Ordinary gestures can take on new meanings. For example, a spread palm, if sharply directed towards a person, can be regarded as a gross insult. At a meeting, friends kiss each other on both cheeks irrespective of sex or age. Handshakes are usually used only when meeting. A nod, which is the traditional consent sign, means denial in Greece. To emphasize their disagreement the Greeks quickly nod from the bottom up and usually click their tongue. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

The Greek feast is as free as the whole life in this country. Bread is broken with fingers. Elbows, as a rule, remain on the table during a meal. The Greeks may accidentally push each other, while cutting a piece of meat. They can dunk a piece of bread in a common sauce or grab a separate ingredient of the salad with their fingers. The conversation during the meal does not stop, regardless of the circumstances. No matter where the meeting takes place - at home or in an expensive restaurant. Such a feast necessarily presents a lot of new impressions and emotions caused by the unusual atmosphere, talks, and laughter.

The Greeks are very hospitable. The country has a huge number of foreigners, and they are treated in a very liberal manner. The Greek invitation is quite specific. It does not mean that you will eat together. If the Greek did not ask to be called by the first name, it’s better to use the last name. When communicating with a stranger, it is better to keep some distance. In this country, the links between generations are appreciated. Women have a great influence on the life of the family. As a rule, they are the leaders. For a man, the best meal is that his mother cooks. Husbands, although they do not admit this, often give the reins to the hands of their wives. Greece has a siesta, which is a break for a daytime nap. It usually lasts from 1pm to 4-5pm.