Greek Traditions Community

Tips for Learning Greek While in Greece?

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d_kakavouli

d_kakavouli

Active member
Now that I am getting older, I realize how important my Greek heritage is. So, I've made it my mission to learn more about it. One of the things I want to do is get better at Greek. And sure, I know I can use language programs - but it seems to me that learning it while in the country might be a little easier. I know that a 2 or 3 week trip won't make me fluent, but I bet it can give me a really good head start. Do you guys have any tips for how I can immerse myself in the Greek language while I am in the country?
 
Use Greek only menus, try to read the Greek words before the English words when looking at signs, speak Greek whenever you can, go to only Greek speaking areas (these will be outside of touristy areas).

If you really focus on not using English then you'll be surprised how much you can learn in 2-3 weeks. People say that it's easiest to learn a language before 4 years old, but I disagree.
 
Actually being there and seeking out people who only speak Greek, will help you immensely. During a conversation, you will be forced to dredge up ANY words that you know in order to get your point across. “Sign” language helps, as well as a good mutual laugh when the going gets tough. I once had no word in the spur of the moment for “refrigerator” when presented with an elegant and quite perishable gift, so I said that we had «κρύο στο δωμάτιο» (cold in the room) which was well understood, but mutually VERY funny at the time! I have poured through books and language apps. In the past I’ve brought “cheat sheets” for phrases that I know that I’ll have to use (ie. dining, hotels etc.) but the things I remember best are when I am speaking with a non-English speaker. As mentioned before, you might find such people in non-tourist areas, the villages, or even in the cities, connected with family-run operations in which not every family member speaks English. I really applaud you for wanting to preserve your very special heritage. Your effort will definitely be noticed and appreciated. Καλή τύχη!
 
This is all some great advice! I am kind of in a similar situation where I am brushing up on my Greek now. I learned it when I was a kid, but my skills never really evolved. I am going to try some of the things mentioned in this thread, as well!
 
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