Moving to Greece

"1. Greece is a beautiful country with a rich culture and history. 2. The official language is Greek, so it is important to learn some basic phrases before moving. 3. The climate in Greece is Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. 4. Greece is a member of the European Union, so expats should familiarize themselves with the regulations and laws of the EU. 5. Expats should also be aware of the cost of living in Greece, which is generally lower than in other European countries. 6. Healthcare in Greece is of a high standard, but expats should ensure they have adequate health insurance coverage. 7. Expats should also research the job market in Greece before moving, as the unemployment rate is currently quite high. 8. It is also important to be aware of the cultural norms and etiquette in Greece, as these can vary from other countries," explained one expat living in Greece.

"There are no real estate agents on the smaller islands, so be prepared to do the foot work yourself, looking for signs posted. Ask around about what is for sale in each village and don't be shy. Good contacts might be architects, expats already here, lawyers. Be prepared for climate differences - extreme heat, gale-force winds. We never reach the freezing point here, so have flowers (and bugs) all year round. But we also have roaming goats and sheep and dogs and cats run free. So having a successful garden is a major challenge, even with a fence. Learn a fair amount of the new language before moving abroad to any country! It's your best bet and opens all sorts of doors for you," said one expat in Agean Island.

"One way to find a place to live in Greece is to search online for rental listings. Websites such as Nestpick, Airbnb, and HomeAway offer a variety of rental options in Greece. Additionally, you can search for local real estate agents who specialize in rentals in the area you are interested in. You can also look for classified ads in local newspapers or online forums. Finally, you can ask friends and family who live in Greece for recommendations," remarked one expat in Greece.

"Expat homes and apartments in Greece tend to be modern and comfortable, with plenty of natural light and airy spaces. Many expats choose to live in larger cities such as Athens, where they can enjoy the convenience of city living while still being close to the stunning beaches and islands of the Mediterranean. Expat homes and apartments in Greece often feature balconies or terraces with views of the sea or the city skyline, and many come with modern amenities such as air conditioning, high-speed internet, and satellite TV," commented one expat who made the move to Greece.

"We bought a 200-year-old farmhouse in a mountain village. It is not so typical, as most expats prefer larger homes and build new. Few rent. Most come here for the long term," remarked one expat in Agean Island, Greece.

"Our costs are considerably lower here. I lived in Germany for 25 years after leaving the States, but before moving here, and our monthly utility costs run less than half of what we paid there. Houses here run from U.S. $15,500 (for slightly falling apart) upwards and you can spend as much as you like if you decide to build a villa," remarked one expat in Agean Island, Greece.

"As mentioned, you can find relatively cheap properties that need a great deal of refurbishment which can end up costing more than a move in ready house," said one expat in Greece.

"Buying a home in Greece can be a great investment, as the country has a strong economy and a desirable climate. However, it is important to consider the cost of living in Greece, as well as the cost of purchasing a home. Renting a home in Greece can be a more affordable option, as it allows you to enjoy the benefits of living in Greece without the long-term commitment of buying a home. Additionally, renting a home in Greece can provide more flexibility, as you can move to a different area or even a different country if desired. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Greece should be based on your individual needs and financial situation," explained one expat living in Greece.

"Ended up building our own house as one was not available where we wanted to be. Another story... quite a challenge, but it was nice to have exactly the building we wanted," said one expat in Paros.

"When moving to Greece, it is important to pack items that will help you adjust to the climate and culture. Pack comfortable, lightweight clothing that is suitable for the warm Mediterranean climate. Bring items that will help you stay cool, such as hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Make sure to bring a few items of clothing that are appropriate for more formal occasions, such as a dinner or a business meeting. Additionally, it is important to bring items that will help you adjust to the culture, such as a phrasebook or a guidebook. Don't forget to bring any necessary documents, such as your passport and visa. Finally, make sure to bring any items that will help you feel at home, such as photos of family and friends," said one expat in Greece.

"It is important to be mindful of cultural differences when visiting Greece. It is considered rude to show up late to social gatherings, so it is important to arrive on time. It is also important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. It is also important to be respectful of the local customs and traditions, and to avoid making negative comments about them. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local laws and regulations, and to avoid engaging in any activities that are illegal in Greece. Finally, it is important to be respectful of the local people and their culture, and to avoid making any offensive or insensitive remarks," commented one expat who made the move to Greece.

"Practically everyday. I "accidentally" offered to help a postal worker with a stapler and nearly had it thrown in my face. I "accidentally" laughed sarcastically when my daughter's teacher said they were going to have a "party" relating to the H1N1 virus," remarked one expat in Athens, Greece.

"Greece is a beautiful country with a rich culture and history, making it an attractive destination for expats. The country offers a relaxed lifestyle, with plenty of sunshine and stunning beaches. The cost of living is relatively low compared to other European countries, making it an ideal place to live for those on a budget. Additionally, the country has a strong economy and a well-developed infrastructure, making it an attractive place to work and do business. The friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere make it a great place to settle down and start a new life," said one expat.

"Greece offers a wide range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialist care, hospital care, and preventive care. The public healthcare system in Greece is funded by the government and is available to all citizens and legal residents. The quality of public healthcare in Greece is generally good, with modern facilities and well-trained staff. Foreign residents in Greece are eligible to use the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay a fee for certain services. Expats in Greece can use the public healthcare system by registering with the local health center and obtaining a Greek health insurance card. This card allows them to access the public healthcare system and receive the same level of care as Greek citizens," said one expat living in Greece.

"Either get private health insurance if applicable, or be prepared to pay for private care," offered one expat living in Paros.

"Greece has a well-developed healthcare system that provides a wide range of medical services. The country has a network of public hospitals and clinics that offer free or low-cost medical care to citizens and residents. Private hospitals and clinics are also available, offering a higher standard of care for those who can afford it. Greece also has a number of specialized medical centers that provide specialized treatments and services. In addition, Greece has a number of pharmacies that provide prescription and over-the-counter medications," said one expat living in Greece.