Digital Nomad Life in Thessaloniki, Greece

"Thessaloniki, being a cultural city.. has many nationalities mixed together.. Much more so than when I first arrived in Greece.. There are many groups/organizations here in Thess. I.W.O.G. International Women`s Organization of Greece e-mail: [email protected] They meet on the 2nd Wednesday of every month (not in summer) for coffee, networking & social activities.. yearly membership 35 euros or guest fee 5 euros ( this pays for your tea/coffee , cake/snack at the meetings )there is also a raffle & 2nd hand book store, all money raised goes to local charities... T.O.W.E.R. ( Thessaloniki Organization for Women Employment & Resources ) Non for profit organization to help women ... It is not a job agency..! web site: www.tower4women.gr
e-mail: [email protected] During the first week of June, all the country specific clubs get together to raise money for local charities... with the International food festival , with over 30 countries taking part.. this year it will be held on Sunday 6th June at Aretzou plaza Krini , next to the beach..," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Thessaloniki.

"As a general rule, peoples priorities here are work & family... Well family comes first.. But Greeks in general are very sociable, if you make the effort to speak to your neighbors, especially if you have children you'll find them to be friendly.. Okay so some expats object to there neighbors interfering (as they see it ) Greeks will give you their opinion (whether asked for or not ) on everything from whether your child should be wearing a jacket or not, to what food your making that day ... I know nothing about sport, but my son informs me that there are 4 football teams for Thessaloniki.. 1. PAOK 2. ARIS 3. IRAKLIS 4. APPOLON KALAMARIAS Thessaloniki has a great variety of clubs, bars, tavernas & restaurants.. The last 5years or so has seen a change, with Indian, Chinese & Japanese restaurants opening.. We also have Mac Donald's, Pizza Hut and coming soon... Kentuky Fried Chicken...! So you won't get to home sick... Night life generally doesn't get started til after 10pm.. So don't be surprised when your new friends ask you out for a drink at the time you'd usually be thinking of going to bed..," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Thessaloniki.

"Finding a place to live in Thessaloniki, involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget and the type of accommodation you're looking for. This could range from a small apartment to a larger house, depending on your needs and financial situation. Next, you should research the different neighborhoods in Thessaloniki to find one that suits your lifestyle and preferences. Some popular areas include the city center, the Ano Poli (Upper Town), and the coastal areas. Each neighborhood has its own unique character and amenities, so it's important to visit them in person if possible. Once you've identified your preferred neighborhood, you can start looking for available properties. There are several online platforms where you can find listings, such as Spitogatos, XE, and HomeGreekHome. These websites allow you to filter properties by location, price, size, and other features. In addition to online listings, you can also work with a local real estate agent. They can provide valuable insights about the local market and help you navigate the process of renting or buying a property in Greece. Make sure to choose an agent who is registered with the Greek Association of Real Estate Agents to ensure they are reputable and reliable. When you find a property you're interested in, arrange a viewing with the landlord or real estate agent. This is your opportunity to inspect the property and ask any questions about the terms of the lease or sale. Finally, once you've found the perfect place, you'll need to sign a contract and pay any necessary deposits or fees. In Greece, it's common to pay a security deposit equivalent to one or two months' rent. If you're buying a property, you'll also need to pay for notary fees, transfer tax, and legal fees. Remember, finding a place to live in a new city can take time, so be patient and don't rush the process. With careful planning and research, you'll be able to find a great home in Thessaloniki," explained one expat living in Thessaloniki, Greece.

"Learn some Greek before you arrive..although, more & more people speak English, it will be appreciated by your new neighbors.... The other thing I'd suggest is.. network.. find, join, meet, make friends,with people already here .. have some type of support network in place before arriving.. You may need it, when whatever your trying to get done.. is being handled in only the way that Greeks know how..! Good Luck.," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Thessaloniki.

"Expats in Thessaloniki, often appreciate the warm and welcoming nature of the local people, who are known for their hospitality and friendliness. They also enjoy the rich history and culture of the city, which is evident in its many historical sites and museums. The local cuisine is another highlight, with its fresh, flavorful ingredients and traditional recipes. Expats also appreciate the relaxed pace of life in Thessaloniki, which allows for plenty of time to enjoy the city's beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife. The city's strong sense of community and tradition is also highly valued, as is its diverse and inclusive atmosphere. Lastly, many expats enjoy the city's Mediterranean climate, which features hot summers and mild winters," said one person in Thessaloniki.

"Expats in Thessaloniki often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture, as not everyone speaks English and the Greek language can be difficult to learn. The Greek's relaxed approach to time, often referred to as 'Greek time', can also be a challenge for expats who are used to more punctual cultures. The bureaucracy in Greece can be overwhelming and frustrating for expats, especially when dealing with public services or legal matters. Some expats may also find it challenging to adapt to the local customs and traditions, which can be quite different from their own. The economic instability in Greece can also be a concern for expats, affecting everything from job security to the cost of living. Lastly, while Greeks are generally warm and hospitable, it can sometimes be difficult for expats to break into local social circles and truly feel integrated into the community," explained one expat living in Thessaloniki, Greece.

"If you are planning to stay in Thessaloniki for an extended period, the type of visa or residency document you need will depend on your nationality and the purpose of your stay. If you are a citizen of a European Union (EU) country, you do not need a visa to enter Greece. However, if you plan to stay for more than three months, you will need to register with the local authorities and obtain a registration certificate. If you are a non-EU citizen, you will need a visa to enter Greece. The type of visa you need will depend on the purpose of your stay. For example, if you are planning to work, you will need a work visa. If you are planning to study, you will need a student visa. If you plan to stay in Greece for more than three months, you will also need to apply for a residence permit. This should be done within the first two months of your arrival in Greece. In addition to these documents, you should also have a valid passport. Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from Greece. Please note that the requirements can change, so it is always a good idea to check with the Greek embassy or consulate in your home country before you travel," said one person in Thessaloniki.

"When visiting Thessaloniki, it's important to respect the local customs and traditions to avoid any cultural faux pas. Avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics, religion, and the country's economic situation, as these can lead to heated debates. Greeks are very proud of their culture and history, so refrain from making negative comments about them. When visiting churches or monasteries, dress modestly and remember to remove your hat. Women may also be required to cover their heads. In Greece, it's considered rude to wave with an open hand, as this gesture is used as an insult. Instead, wave with your palm closed. Avoid using the "OK" hand gesture (forming a circle with your thumb and index finger), as it is considered offensive in Greece. Punctuality is not highly valued in Greek culture, so don't be surprised if people are late for appointments or social gatherings. However, as a visitor, try to be on time. Tipping is customary in Greece, so remember to leave a small tip in restaurants, cafes, and taxis. Finally, Greeks are known for their hospitality, so if you're invited to someone's home, it's polite to bring a small gift for the host," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Thessaloniki.