XpatAthens
Learning Greek from the Very Beginning
OMILO Greek Language and Culture! New courses start from September 30th in Maroussi (North Athens) and intensive 1- and 2-week courses are possible in Athens, Syros, Nafplion, Syros, Lefkada and Andros. For more information, email info@omilo.com.
When I heard the Greek language for the first time, I could never imagine that I would ever master the language. I did already speak a few “ordinary” languages such as English, French and German. But then Greek! I didn’t know where to start, I couldn’t hear where one word stopped and the next one began. The expression “it’s all Greek to me” started to make sense! Was it my intension to find my way in this labyrinth of words ? Yes indeed, and in the end, it was a pleasant and educative experience!
Lesson 1: Saying “Yes” and “No”. That’s where it all started. Whereas in most foreign languages the word “No” begins with an “n” and has one syllable ( think about no,nee, nein, njet) the Greeks decided to have an exception to the rule. The Greek for “No” is “Ochi” (όχι) and for Yes is “Ne”.(Ναι)
The Greek people have more different ways to say “No” which is quit amusing!! Oral expressions are, for example, “a”, pretty much the same as the American “a”, or a very fierce”apapapa” ! If for ex. you ask the the question “ Shall we go for a walk?” you might get a negative answer with the boring-sounding “Ba!” And then not to forget all the gestures which express a “No”: throwing the head back, possibly accompanied by raising the eyebrows. Mere raising of the eyebrows, accompanied by rattling of the tongue, the sound we make when we are slightly annoyed.
Lesson 2: Greeting somebody. In Greek, you can say “ya” (γειά or γειά σας) when you greet somebody upon arrival or departure; it has got the same meaning as “Hello and Bye”. OK, I will add another free lesson: if you repeat the word “ya”, saying “yaya” (γιαγιά), that means ““grandma”. That is how I taught my nephew his first full sentence” Just repeat “ya” three times, and you are greeting grandma! “Ya ya ya” he shouted at me repeatedly during his stay with us and every time he burst out in laughter ... And this was only the first lesson!
After a few weeks of intense listening I started to recognise words and tried very hard to remember them. Fortunately I had my husband, whom I could ask for advise and my mother in law “to practise”. However, Greek is not easy to learn without discipline and a real teacher! A friend recommended the OMILO School, a school for foreigners to learn Greek. They have courses in Maroussi (North Athens) for poeple like me and live all year in Athens, but they also have intensive courses on various islands in the holiday season.
Thanks to my extra lessons at the OMILO Greek Language School, I made rapid progress. My Greek teachers were great and kept me motivated to keep speaking Greek and using the grammar properly. Yes, grammar is important too, especially if you do not want to sound as a foreigner all your live! We had a lot of fun in the class and learned from eachothers mistakes. And some mistakes you never forget!
The “stress–emphasis” is a very important aspect of the Greek language. In written Greek an accent is placed on every letter which is emphasised.Wrong use of the emphasis can create terrible (or funny) misunderstandings. A very good example is the word “malakά”, which means “soft”. If you put the emphasis in the wrong place than you would say “malάka”, which means as*****e ! Do I need to say more? Be careful…
Every now and then little mishaps can happen! One day one of my classmates bought feta cheese and said in her best Greek: “Miso kilo feta parakalo” (half a kilo feta cheese please). To the question of the salesperson “what type of feta would you like” (hard, soft,...) she answered convincingly: “Feta, malάka…!!! She got an enraged look at first … but, fortunately, she looks anything but Greek, and it was soon corrected with a smile...”Oxi koritsi mou, “malakί” feta theleis....” ( No, my dear, you want soft feta cheese...).
Why the “a” now changes into an “i” will be explained at the OMILO Greek Language school!
I am now at a very good level in Greek and feel so much better in this beautiful country. Only by speaking the language you also understand the Greek culture and mentality.I must say I often felt irritated by words you would think they are more or less the same in all languages, as, for example “police”. If you thought this was an international word, that definitely was before discovering the Greek language, as the Greek word for police is: “astynomia”! Do you like fruit and especially kiwi’s ? Bad luck, cause in Greece nobody seems to know the word kiwi.... they call them “aktinidia”. Learning the Greek vocabulary is a hard job!
Learning Greek is really fun and worth it. If you need help, do not hesitate to check the website of the OMILO Greek Language school. The schoolyear just started...so as the Greeks so nicely say “Kali archi”! Good start!
Maaike Sel
OMILO Greek Language and Culture! New courses start from September 30th in Maroussi (North Athens) and intensive 1- and 2-week courses are possible in Athens, Syros, Nafplion, Syros, Lefkada and Andros.
Elefsina And The Goddess Dimitra
The Smile Of The Child Launches Campaign To Help Refugee Children On Lesvos
November 21 - Thanksgiving In Athens
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The Ultimate Road Trip Through Southern Peloponnese Greece
Keep in mind, to fully discover the splendid diversity of natural and historical wonders, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, this road trip is best experienced over 2-3 days or ideally 4 days.
Need a car to make this road trip possible?
Just after setting out from Athens on this inspiring road trip, grab a quick coffee at the Corinith Canal. This man-made miracle completed in the late 1800s, offers breathtaking views and connects the mainland with the Peloponnese. Before it was built, ships wanting to cross the Adriatic, or go to Corinth, had to circle the Peloponnese, which added approximately 300 kms to their journey.
Our first destination, the well preserved fortified Byzantine town of Mystras, is located just under 2 hours south from the Corinth Canal. Also known as the ‘wonder of the Morea’, Mystras winds up the hill like an open-air museum and is one of the most unique sites in the southern Peloponnese, not to mention is also being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Mystras was built amphitheatrically in 1249 and is home to many Byzantine churches, and over its long history was conquered by Byzantines, Venetians, and Turks. The most important sites in Mystras are the hilltop fortress and the Byzantine monasteries.
Our next stop, 1 hour and 30 mins away from Mystras, is an ideal year round getaway destination. Monemvasia lies on a big rock in the sea connected to the mainland by a small causeway. To actually enter the town, you have to leave your car behind. This medieval castle town of unique architecture on the south-eastern coast of the Peloponnese, is one of the most romantic destinations in Greece due to its fairy-tale atmosphere and unique history. You're up for a lovely surprise as you enter the fortress’ gates, as the whole town of castles, mansions, cobbled streets, squares and churches unfolds before your eyes.
Heading West and around 2 hours from Monemvasia, the next destination will most certainly impress you! The Cave of Diros is one of the most impressive cave complexes in the world as it’s full of lakes and extraordinary stalagmite and stalactite formations. Part of the cave tour is by boat while the rest can be done on foot, making it a truly remarkable experience for visitors of all ages!
From here, drive 20 minutes north to Limeni, a picturesque fishing village ideal for a delicious seaside lunch in one of the excellent traditional fish tavernas. The area is also home to the beautiful tower house of the Mavromichalis family, a family who played a significant role in the Greek War for Independence. While in the region, don't forget to pay a visit to Gerolimenas, a port of historical significance during ancient times. Today Gerolimenas is a traditional fishing village with lovely tavernas and a small pebbled beach.
Further along the central southern prong of the Peloponnese, about a one hour drive from Limeni, you will be met by the pretty coastal villages of Stoupa and Kardamyli. Mani is a popular destination among visitors seeking an authentic Greek holiday experience. The beautiful seaside town of Kardamyli is nestled between turquoise waters and lush green mountains and is ideal for a relaxing getaway away from the crowds all year round.
Next, just under 2 hours from Kardamyli, Pylos is an amphitheatrically built town, reminiscent of an island hamlet. The tranquillity that the town enjoys today contrasts its turbulent past as it is the location where the Battle of Navarino took place in 1827. Visit the Archaeological Museum of Pylos, take a stroll along the town’s seaside promenade and enjoy a coffee at one of the traditional ‘kafenio’ or sit down for a bite at one of the many restaurants in the area.
Need a car to make this road trip possible?
Yoga Classes For Kids In Athens
Okto is a serene yoga studio that offers yoga classes for all ages. Every Saturday from 11.30 to 12.30 they offer a yoga class for kids from 4 to 8 years old, while they also offer aerial yoga classes for teens (12-16 years) every Tuesday and Thursday from 19.00 to 20.00.
Address: 8-10 Grigoriou Kydonion, 172 37, Dafni (Ymittos)
Telephone: 210 7622295
Art n’ Play
Art n’ Play is a great alternative to traditional indoor playgrounds. Their mission is to offer quality creative programs and activities specially designed for children. Their kid’s yoga class takes place every Thursday from 18.30 to 19.30.
Address: 5 Flemingk, 175 63, Paleo Faliro
Telephone: 211 1110834
Through its holistic approach ‘The Blue Elephant’ provides activities designed to encourage physical, mental, and spiritual growth. Among others they offer yoga for babies (3-12 months) every Tuesday from 17.00 to 17.50, yoga for kids (5+ years) every Wednesday from 18.25-19.15, and teen yoga (11+ years) every Wednesday from 19.20-20.10
Address: 23 Leoforos Dimokratias, 154 51, Neo Psychiko
Telephone: 213 0402294
Even though all dates and times were accurate at the time of publishing, we kindly request you to check with the yoga studio to confirm the dates and times before heading to your first yoga class!
Santorini Experience: Gold Award At 2020 Tourism Awards
Register for the 15km “Aristides Alafouzos” and 10km running routes, as well as the 1.5 miles swimming route, and take advantage of the early bird prices with a 25% discount. The offer is valid until 31/7. The event, always prioritizing the participants themselves, offers a refund of their registration costs until August 31.
Boatmen Union Santorini is the event’s official supporter.
Avance is the official rental partner.
Santorini Experience is assisted by Lifeguard Patrol.
Santorini Experience is co-organized by the Municipality of Santorini, Municipal Sports Cultural Environmental Organization of Santorini (DAPPOS), and Active Media Group.
More info at: www.santorini-experience.com
YouTube Channel
Official Hashtag: #SantoriniExperience
Photo Credit: Babis Giritziotis
XpatAthens is proud to be a Media Sponsor of Santorini Experience
A Guide To Greek Herbal Teas
Greek Mountain Tea
No Greek household is ever short of Greek mountain tea or as we say in Greek, tsai tou vounou (τσάι του βουνού). It is made using the dried leaves and flowers of Sideritis plant (ironwort), which grows mainly in Greece, Albania and Bulgaria.
The name is a good fit for the tea since the plant is found on rocky slopes at high altitudes. It’s common for the locals to go out in the countryside and gather it rather than grow it in the fields or their gardens. The leaves and flowers are then left to dry and store in airtight containers until it’s time for brewing.
The tea contains high levels of antioxidants and large amounts of essential oils, flavonoids, sterols, and other phytonutrients. It is mainly used to combat colds, respiratory problems and indigestion, but also has soothing effects.
Greek mountain tea comes as loose leaves rather than tea bags and can be found in grocery stores and shops that sell herbs and spices. If you find yourself in the Greek countryside, you’ll probably come across little agriculture cooperatives that gather and sell local mountain tea, so make sure to buy some.
Faskomilo (Sage)
Faskomilo (φασκόμηλο) grows in Mediterranean climates and its Latin name, salvia, comes from the Latin verb salvare which translates as to save or to cure. Its leaves have a strong smell and they are used both for cooking and for brewing beverages with numerous healing qualities. In ancient times, it was widely used for as an antiseptic on open wounds and can still have a soothing effect if your skin is irritated, but we wouldn’t necessarily recommend for you to replace more modern treatments.
As a beverage, it is often seen as a natural treatment for throat infections, inflammation of the gums, mouth ulcers as well as other small irritations in the area of the mouth. Faskomilo boosts the nervous system, improves memory and revs up blood circulation.
Throumbi (Savory)
Savory or, in Greek, throumbi (θρούμπι) is small bush-like plant with pink, purple or white flowers that blossoms between July and September in Greece and other countries around the Mediterranean Sea. Its therapeutic qualities have been known to the Greeks since ancient times and they have been using it for cooking since then. Nowadays, we know that it helps with indigestion, stomachache, nausea and diarrhoea.
Levanda (Lavender)
We use lavender when storing our clothes to help keep them fresh and moth-free, but did you know that it can also be brewed into a fragrant beverage with countless healing qualities? Lavender grows in abundance in Greece. Its beautiful purple flowers can be dried and then brewed to create a beverage that soothes and relaxes the mind and body. It is supposed to help with head- and tummy aches, and to relieve stress and insomnia. Lavender blooms and gets collected during the summer months.
Herbs And Their Medicinal Qualities
Previous generations, especially in the countryside, used to rely a lot on herbs and their healing or health benefits considering that access to a doctor was more difficult than it is today. Not every village had a doctor and not everyone was able to afford them. As a result, people – especially women – sought to harness the power of different plants and herbs to offer relief from different ailments.
Nowadays, brewing someone some tsai tou vounou or another herbal tea is often the first response when someone is down with a cold or suffering from a tummy ache, but they are secondary to modern medicine, especially when it comes to treating more serious or chronic diseases. Teas are seen mainly as a pleasant alternative to coffee that tastes nice and soothes the mind and body after a stressful day.
To learn how to prepare Greek herbal teas, click here.
Masaresi.com was founded by Maya Cornelissens-Andreadi, who shares her experience about how “to integrate in Greece and feel like a local”. Masaresi = μας αρέσει = we like it! Discover the “real Greece," while delving into all the aspects of Greek life – from modern lifestyle and culture to history, literature, traditions, and many more.
Explore Greece - Read About Greece - Buy Greek - Learn Greek
Retiring In Greece: A Comprehensive Guide
Obtaining a residence permit starts with a three-month entry visa, known as the "D" type visa, which can be acquired through the Greek consulate in your home country. To obtain such a visa the required documents include:
- Your passport, valid for at least three months after the expiration of the visa
- A biometric passport Photo
- The Application form, filled in English or Greek
- A medical certificate filled out by a licensed doctor
- Proof of medical insurance valid in Greece
- An excerpt from the penal register issued by your country of origin or current residence
Athens Carnival 2025: A Citywide Celebration of Music, Dance, & Tradition
Athens is gearing up for another spectacular carnival season in 2025, bringing together age-old traditions, vibrant parades, and electrifying musical performances. From the grand procession in Syntagma Square to neighborhood festivities filled with laughter and dance, the Greek capital will be brimming with the spirit of Apokries. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this year's carnival promises unforgettable moments for all. Here’s a detailed look at what’s in store!
Thursday, February 20 – Tsiknopempti (Smoky Thursday)
Kickstarting the festivities, Tsiknopempti is a day dedicated to feasting, music, and merriment:
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11 AM: The streets of Athens come alive with a Traditional Apokries Parade featuring a reenactment of the Kordelatoi from Naxos. Expect a colorful display from Syntagma Square to Monastiraki.
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11:30 AM: Enjoy a Philharmonic Orchestra Musical Walk at Varvakios Market, setting the perfect carnival mood.
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12 PM: A concert by the Athens Municipality Greek Music Workshop will keep spirits high with Greek folk and laïko tunes at Varvakios Market.
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7 PM & 8:30 PM: As the night falls, Kotzia Square hosts back-to-back live concerts with KogiaMan and Gidiki, blending traditional Greek, Balkan, and Mediterranean melodies.
Saturday, February 22 – Community and Street Festivities
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11 AM: Experience the magic of a Parade of Carnival Groups winding from Kotzia Square to Monastiraki, where folk reenactments will showcase Greece’s rich cultural heritage.
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11:30 AM: The little ones can enjoy a Children’s Carnival Party in Dourgouti Park, featuring games, face painting, and balloon artistry.
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12 PM: Athens’ neighborhoods come alive with multiple Carnival Walks, including a drumming parade by Quilombo in Kypseli and a folk dance party in Mesolongiou Square.
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1 PM: Music lovers shouldn’t miss the Athens Municipality Big Band Jazz Concert on Dionysiou Areopagitou Pedestrian Street, adding a swing-infused touch to the celebrations.
Sunday, February 23 – Family-Friendly Fun and Cultural Revelry
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10 AM: Engage in the 14th Treasure Hunt in Mets, a fun and educational adventure through Athens' historical sites.
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11:30 AM – 2 PM: Zappeion transforms into a carnival wonderland with children’s entertainment, stilt walkers, and circus acts.
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12 PM: Plaka and Thissio turn into open-air theaters with traditional Apokries performances and the famous gaitanaki ribbon dance.
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6 PM: A Zakynthian Carnival Walk from the Acropolis Metro to Monastiraki celebrates the Ionian tradition with serenades and folk dances.
Tuesday, February 25 – Satirical Songs and Neighborhood Carnivals
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10 AM – 1 PM: Kypseli Municipal Market hosts a Children’s Carnival Celebration featuring music and interactive activities.
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7 PM: The OTE Cultural Centre presents an evening of satirical carnival songs and dances, highlighting Apokries’ playful and humorous side.
Thursday, February 27 – Community Carnival Parades
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10:30 AM: The neighborhoods of Attiki and Agios Panteleimonas come together for a Carnival Parade, where school groups and cultural collectives showcase their Apokries spirit.
Saturday, March 1 – A Day for the Kids
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11 AM: Across Athens, parks and squares host Children’s Carnival Celebrations, complete with mascots, games, face painting, and traditional dances.
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12 PM – 2 PM: Klafthmonos Square stages a lively outdoor performance of “Two Grooms – One Bride”, a theatrical nod to 17th-century Zakynthian carnival traditions.
Sunday, March 2 – The Grand Carnival Parade
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5 PM: The carnival season reaches its peak with the Grand Carnival Parade from Syntagma to Kotzia Square. Expect stilt walkers, dance performances, a stunning Chinese dragon, and a vibrant street party.
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7 PM: The night concludes with a Live Concert by Decibel Band in Kotzia Square, delivering an energetic fusion of music and carnival vibes.
Monday, March 3 – Clean Monday (Kathara Deftera)
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11 AM: Athens embraces the Lenten season with Koulouma at Philopappou Hill, featuring traditional kite flying and folk music.
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11:30 AM: A Philharmonic Orchestra Musical Walk ensures the carnival ends on a melodious note.
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11:30 AM: Dance and celebrate one last time with a Traditional Folk Gathering, complete with delicious Lenten treats.
Join the Celebration!
Whether you’re after dazzling parades, cultural traditions, or musical extravaganzas, Athens Carnival 2025 has something for everyone. Mark your calendar, put on your best costume, and immerse yourself in the city's most vibrant festival of the year!
