Easter is a staple in the Greek-Orthodox Religion, and in depending on who you ask, the most important holiday in the year. There are many cultural traditions specific to Easter, dying the eggs red, or known as κοκκινο αυγα, easter tsoudeki bread, midnight church services, family gatherings, amongst other cultural distinctions. One does not have […]
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Although not as heavily populated as Athens, or filled with as much street art, Thessaloniki does have a street art scene itself. There are many murals that cover the sides of buildings and walls, and can be found walking throughout the city. These pieces are more relaxed, and not as politically oriented or grand as […]
Words to Impress Your Greek Friends
There are many websites on the internet that teach basic Greek to those who seek it, yet they do not do a good job of diving into how the common person speaks. Although those websites do teach how to effectively communicate through greetings, commerce, ordering food, amongst other fields, they do not add words only […]
Emerging Greek Fashion Brands
Athens is home to a few clothing designers on the rise domestically. These designers make very hip clothes, that give off a summer/nautical vibe, also offering an urban setting line of clothes as well. In addition to their impressive clothing lines, they sell these items for very decent prices, making shopping there very enjoyable (will […]
Hellenic, not “Greek”
Many people refer to those of origin or residing in Greece as “the Greeks”. It is a common mistake, as those within the country do not identify or refer to themselves as “Greek”, rather, Hellenic. In fact, the true name of Greece is the Hellenic Republic. One might have encountered the word “Hellas” when glancing […]
It took a global pandemic for economies across the world to see the diminish of small businesses. Greece does not have many chain stores, in fact, most businesses here are family run or identified as “small businesses”. Although these small businesses are feeling the losses financially as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, they are […]
New Years in Greece is a very special holiday, as many families gather to celebrate what is known as “Καλη Χρονια” – or Happy New Year. What makes a New Year Celebration so special is Vasilopita (βασιλοπιτα) or “New Years Bread”, a Family gathering, and St Basil’s Day on January 1st. St Basil’s Day is […]
Muslim Presence in Greece
Although a dominantly Christian Country (Greek-Orthodox), Greece, does have a Muslim population within their borders. Starting in the year of 1453, was the fall of Constantinople, or modern day “Istanbul”, lead to Ottoman (Turkish) rule in Greece. Lasting around 400 years, the Greeks revolted against the Ottomans, gaining their independence. Yet, there is still influences […]
For months the world has been forced into a unpredicted state, where social interactions are limited and fear looms over the recently discovered COVID virus. Many have reflected, and continue to reflect on what life was like prior to March of 2020, when Countries around the world went into their first nationwide lockdowns. During this […]
As many around the World struggle with mental health due to isolation, fear of the COVID-19 disease, financial difficulties associated with COVID-19, amongst other issues, there is one positive that is coming out during this dark time. In Thessaloniki, Greece, the residents are coming together despite these grim times. Although there is much to stress […]