5 Greek Life Rules That Will Baffle You

Greeks are considered the people who enjoy life the most in Europe. They know how to savor every moment without giving in to despair, and they believe in a better future, despite economic difficulties.

1. Approximate Greek Time
In Greece, time is perceived differently than elsewhere; everything happens slowly and gradually. No one is in a hurry, and locals can spend hours enjoying coffee in a cafe without rushing. Friendly gatherings and business meetings always start a little later than planned.

2. Scheduled Siesta
Only siesta time in Greece adheres to a strict schedule: from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, the hottest hour of the day, locals enjoy lunch and rest, forgetting about work for a few hours. Life stands still, and time stands still: no one works, visits, or makes phone calls—making noise during siesta is prohibited by law.

3. Patience and Work
Despite the common perception that Greeks prefer work to leisure, they are actually just as hardworking as they are resting. Each Greek works over 2,000 hours a year, significantly more than in countries like Germany, where the average work year is only 1,360 hours.

4. A Holiday Every Day
Greece boasts a multitude of holidays and festivals unmatched in any other European country. Starting in mid-January, spectacular carnivals take place, continuing until the beginning of Lent. The day before Lent, Clean Monday, is also a holiday and a day off.

5. All the Best for Children
For Greeks, children are a source of joy, pride, and simply sacred. Parents pamper their children, cherish them, and don’t restrict them, understanding that with time, everything will improve. Greeks also treat other people’s children with utmost care – there’s always a kind word or a toy for every child.