Greece, though officially part of Western Europe, is a historical mix between the East and West. It touches no other Western European country, and still has many of its cultural facets stemming from the 400 years of Turkish occupation. The culture was preserved by the Orthodox priests, who now are given great respect because of their former suffering. This mixture of East and West sometimes makes you think that the Greeks are behind the times – but in reality, they still cling to many of the traditional ways that the rest of Europe has chosen to give up in exchange for “modernity”.

Greek culture is tied to wine, food and coffee. Around the table you get a better sense of their hospitality, the pride they have for the traditional foods, and the love for their leisure time. They are friendly, relaxed and ready to enjoy life.

98% of the country would claim they are Greek Orthodox. Though most do not go to church on a regular basis, the school system and holiday schedules are filled up with religious holidays, festivals and the birthdays of the more prominent saints. The Orthodox tradition is one of the key anchors to the Greek culture – they don’t have to participate in activities to remain within the Church – to be Greek is to be Orthodox; that’s enough.

Greeks are satisfied enough with their own culture to not feel the pressure to conform to the rest of Europe, but they are quick to adopt trends and fads to their liking. They are sharp dressers, love “sexy” cell phones, and like trendy cars.