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Souvlaki

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Hi everyone, I live in Canada. Trying to renew my very outdated Greek passport here in Vancouver and no matter what paperwork I send the Greek consulate, they ignore it all and pretend they know nothing and ask the same questions again and again. This has been going on now for over 2 months. I thought I would post this here as part of Greeks legendary bureaucracy for a few laughs, but seriously, any thoughts on how to proceed?
 
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You need μέσον. Someone on the "inside" that can help fast track things. This is the only way I was able to get my passport from the Greek embassy in Melbourne many years ago.

But I have since realised that I don't need a Greek passport. I use by Australian passport to get to Greece and from there I can use my Greek citizenship card to get anywhere in Europe.

So ask yourself, do you really need a passport if you have your Greek identity card?
 
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Since I've never lived in Greece, I never had a Greek ID card so it's going to be a problem I guess. Unfortunately I don't know anyone on the inside to help me out with the embassy over here. My Father always told me I've experienced nothing in life until I've had a taste of Greek bureaucracy lol.
 
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Hi everyone, I live in Canada. Trying to renew my very outdated Greek passport here in Vancouver and no matter what paperwork I send the Greek consulate, they ignore it all and pretend they know nothing and ask the same questions again and again. This has been going on now for over 2 months. I thought I would post this here as part of Greeks legendary bureaucracy for a few laughs, but seriously, any thoughts on how to proceed?
I’ve heard that there are really long lines to get Canadian passports these days as well. It seems that the whole system is broken. Perhaps you can apply for an emergency/expedited passport?
 
I’ve heard that there are really long lines to get Canadian passports these days as well. It seems that the whole system is broken. Perhaps you can apply for an emergency/expedited passport?
I've been in contact with them 3 times today by email but not moving forward. It's pretty clear they will not honor that I am a Greek citizen no matter what I do, say, documents I provide. I sent them my Greek Passport today again as they said they lost the email from 2 months ago and they said my passport proves nothing so I think it's time to give up. There must be a mandate within the Greek government to deny citizens living outside Greece a passport renewal I guess.
 
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I've been in contact with them 3 times today by email but not moving forward. It's pretty clear they will not honor that I am a Greek citizen no matter what I do, say, documents I provide. I sent them my Greek Passport today again as they said they lost the email from 2 months ago and they said my passport proves nothing so I think it's time to give up. There must be a mandate within the Greek government to deny citizens living outside Greece a passport renewal I guess.
Very strange. Do you plan on visiting Greece soon? Perhaps if you’re going there on vacation you might be able to get it sorted out. If you’re willing to pay to get it done faster, Greeks are much more willing to accept bribes.
 
Very strange. Do you plan on visiting Greece soon? Perhaps if you’re going there on vacation you might be able to get it sorted out. If you’re willing to pay to get it done faster, Greeks are much more willing to accept bribes.
Yes, it's very strange and not what I expected from an official government outlet. Not really interested at the moment to travel to Greece after all this headache, but would still like my passport. Every time I think they're sincere, they turn around and ignore or void everything. I live 6 hours away, but I think the next step is to visit them directly with all my papers and talk to them.
 
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Yes, it's very strange and not what I expected from an official government outlet. Not really interested at the moment to travel to Greece after all this headache, but would still like my passport. Every time I think they're sincere, they turn around and ignore or void everything. I live 6 hours away, but I think the next step is to visit them directly with all my papers and talk to them.
I have experienced something similar when trying to get my Greek drivers license, you are not alone in this for sure. Dealing with Greek bureaucracy is an absolute headache. Sorry to hear that this is discouraging you from visiting.
 
I have experienced something similar when trying to get my Greek drivers license, you are not alone in this for sure. Dealing with Greek bureaucracy is an absolute headache. Sorry to hear that this is discouraging you from visiting.
I've heard it can be quite common but when it actually happens it feels like a bit of a nightmare.
 
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I've heard it can be quite common but when it actually happens it feels like a bit of a nightmare.
Sorry to see that you are going through this. You are right my friend.
 
Sorry to see that you are going through this. You are right my friend.
Thanks! They obviously do not want to help and my family and I have decided why even bother if this is how the Government treats its own citizens.
 
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Greek family customs - Personal related

Hi there. Not sure if this is the right forum, but I've got some personal issues with my family. My brother in law (73) is Greek. His wife (my sister) is not. They have a daughter (34) (my niece) that "sides" more with the Greek culture.

My niece has never left home, and has never paid rent or paid for food. She's been mostly jobless although she has worked a few jobs here and there. My sister is fed up with it, but when she confronts my BIL, he says "Greeks don't do that". And what he is implying (I guess) is that Greeks take care of their family in this way.

My BIL had a stroke many years ago and his health is declining rapidly. I am advocating for an attendant to come into the house every day and get him dressed, showered, make him meals, etc. My sister is 73 and she can't physically handle this. She also doesn't want to devote every waking moment to keeping an eye on him. When she suggests an attendant, again, "Greeks don't do that".

Now I'm pretty sure this is all BS, but would love to get some input from any Greek people in this forum.

Tips for Learning and Teaching Greek

I know how to speak Greek okay, but I am not great at it. I want to brush up on my skills, and I also want to teach some of my family members. I am good enough at it to the learn the basics. I am looking for advice, but I've also compiled some ideas:

1. Spend an extended period of time in Greece

There’s no better way to learn Greek than to immerse yourself in the language and culture of Greece. If you have the opportunity, consider spending an extended time in Greece, studying or working, taking a sabbatical, or just exploring the country. Living in Greece can help you understand the nuances of the language, such as the different accents, dialects, and slang that are used. You’ll also have the chance to practice your Greek with locals, watch Greek TV or films, and read Greek books or newspapers. I would imagine this is the best way to learn fast!

2. Use a language program

If you can’t travel to Greece or you prefer a more structured approach to learning Greek, consider using a language program. There are many language programs available online or in your local area, ranging from self-paced courses to interactive classes. Some popular language programs for Greek include Rosetta Stone, Duolingo, and Pimsleur. From what I understand these are all great options and I can learn at my own pace.

3. Take classes

Taking classes is another excellent way to learn Greek, especially if you prefer face-to-face interaction and feedback. You can find Greek language classes in community colleges, universities, language schools, or private tutors. Taking classes can help you improve your Greek skills, such as listening, speaking, reading, and writing. You’ll have a teacher who can guide you through the learning process, answer your questions, and give you homework or assignments that challenge you. You’ll also have classmates who share your passion for Greek and can practice with you.

4. Find ways to immerse yourself outside of Greece

Even if you can’t go to Greece or attend classes, you can still immerse yourself in Greek in your daily life. One way is to find Greek-speaking communities or events in your area, such as cultural centers, festivals, or meetups. You can also use online resources to connect with Greek speakers, such as language exchange websites, social media groups, or chat apps. Listening to Greek music, watching Greek videos or podcasts, or reading Greek literature can also help you familiarize yourself with the sounds and patterns of the language.

Honestly, I plan to try all 4 - whatever I can do. I think it will all help.

Where did plate smashing come from?

When Greeks feel happy and are dancing and have a good time, they've been known to smash plates. I've seen it! It's not just a tourist thing - but they don't do it much because I am sure they won't want to smash their expensive dish wear.

I was just at a wedding and they had purchased plates to smash - so basically they were cheap throwaway plates that actually smashed really well. I almost wonder if they were made for the purpose...

It got me thinking - where did this tradition come from? Does anyone know?

Greek Easter Family Traditions

I am curious what your family traditions are for Greek Easter. I know lent hasn't even started yet, but I've started doing some planning to make sure my family has all of its traditions all set. Sometimes it takes me a while to find ingredients for some of the foods I serve, etc.

Of course we spend Holy Week in church. We do our best to fast during Lent, and once Easter comes, it's all about serving our traditional dishes. This year I might spend part of lent in Greece to visit some religious sites.

What do you guys all do?

When does Orthodox lent start this year?

I noticed our Easter is late - May 5th - but Western Easter is at the end of March. Has Lent already started for them? When does our Lent start?

This year, I plan to do a stricter Lenten fast, so I want to plan some things out in advance.

Lent is a time for introspection, repentance, and spiritual growth. Through the dedicated practice of fasting, prayer, and charity, believers seek not only to grow closer to God but also to better understand themselves in relation to God’s will.
Share and discuss Greek traditions related to Greek weddings, christenings, dance & holidays!

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