Colors of Samos Island - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

Greeks may seem quite lazy for some tourists. But Greek mentality plays a key role in their behaviour. They are used to live as they please. Money and wealth don’t play a great role in their lives. Local residents can easily come to a tavern, throw a party and pay for it. Greeks often spend money on expensive and useless things. They believe that money should bring pleasure and happiness.

The daily routine of an ordinary Samos citizen is quite leisured. A Greek wakes up at 8 o’clock, has a cup of tea, works till 2 o’clock and has siesta till 5 o’clock. The working day is finished at 9 pm and then the fiesta starts, it is time for leisure and meetings with friends. All taverns are full of people in the evenings, they enjoy meals and local drinks. This way of spending time is a part of Greek tradition. Local citizens drink a lot, but will hardly meet drunk people on the streets. This is because invariable behaviour is a disgrace for Greeks.

So, if you don’t want to lose the sympathy of the locals, try to behave decently. If you are going to visit remote Samos villages, remember that life is different there. People are conservative and have a different concept of life. So, try to dress modestly if you don’t want to be blamed by older generations. It is also important to look properly if you are going to visit a church. Greeks are Orthodox Christians and they honour the traditions. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Greeks love their homeland. If you see a Greek, who is criticising the government, don’t agree with him- it will hurt his feelings. If you want to get along with a local citizen- try to talk about Greek history and culture, or tell something about your homeland. Local inhabitants appreciate honesty. Sincerity and sense of duty are important qualities for Greek people. Locals are open to communicating with foreigners but they expect honesty from people. There are no more countries in the world, where you can eat today and pay tomorrow.

Greeks have a very impetuous temper. They wildly gesticulate, raise their voice and interrupt other people. They don’t do it intentionally, it is just the way they express themselves. When they want to signal «no». Greek people raise their eyebrows and their whole head upwards, while softly clicking with their tongue. It resembles a half-nod. When they want to say something, they touch or pat the lower lip with the index finger. A nod of the head with the right hand on the heart means «thank you». If you want to show neglect to a person, just pretend that you are brushing off the dust of the lapel of the jacket. If you don’t believe in something, run your hand over the right cheek.