1 - 5 of 5 Posts

knicks_fan87

Active member
I am curious - what is dating like in Greece? The reason I ask is I have a younger cousin, college age, who is spending the whole summer in Greece.

She's been meeting Greek men over there who have been interested in her. She expressed that she is having a difficult time figuring out the right way to behave, or what to expect from the men. Any tips I can pass on to her?
 
  • Like
Reactions: Hash
Tell her to be herself... the only thing that I can think of that's noticeably different is that you don't introduce your bf/gf to your family (immediate family, cousins, aunts/uncles, grandparents) until you're serious (i.e. ready to get married)... so, if your cousin finds herself in a relationship, tell her not to get offended if he doesn't want his family to know yet - I had this issue when I met my wife and I met (she's from Greece and I'm not).
 
  • Like
Reactions: Hash
I am curious - what is dating like in Greece? The reason I ask is I have a younger cousin, college age, who is spending the whole summer in Greece.

She's been meeting Greek men over there who have been interested in her. She expressed that she is having a difficult time figuring out the right way to behave, or what to expect from the men. Any tips I can pass on to her?
Tell her to make a profile on eligible greeks or find a Greek dating group on FB (There's even a group for Orthodox dating if she is one).
 
  • Like
Reactions: Hash
I noticed that a lot of younger Greeks tend to date in groups. For example, everyone might know that the group will meet at a certain time at a fountain in the city or town. They will tell their love interest to meet them there, as well. The two spend some time interacting with their friends, or they might go off together and walk around. This seems to me like a great way to start getting to know a person. Initially, it looks like it is all about getting to know each other and assessing how the person interacts with their friends.
 
Dating in Greece is a pretty relaxed and social experience. People tend to enjoy spending time together outdoors, whether that's at a café or on the beach. It's common for dates to feel more casual at first, with lots of talking and getting to know each other. Greeks are generally warm and open, so if you're interested in meeting people, you’ll find that they’re very welcoming. If you're planning to visit, this site might give you more local tips: tosituhma.com. It’s a great resource for getting the inside scoop on the local scene.
 

Decorating the Christmas Boat?

I’ve always loved seeing photos of the decorated Greek Christmas boat, but I’ve never actually done it myself. This year I’m thinking of finally giving the tradition a try, and I’d love some guidance from those who grew up with it or still decorate one at home.

How do you choose the size or style of the boat? Do people usually use a wooden model, something handmade, or even a simple paper version? I’m also curious about how it’s decorated, is it mostly lights and ribbons, or are there specific colors and symbols that carry meaning? And where in the house do you typically place it?

I’ve read that the tradition goes back to honoring sailors and welcoming loved ones home for the holidays, which I find beautiful. If anyone has stories, photos, or tips for creating a first Christmas boat, I’d love to hear them.

Favorite Greek Christmas traditions?

I’m curious to hear everyone’s favorite Greek Christmas traditions, especially the ones that feel extra meaningful or unique to your family. I’ve been learning more about Greek culture and food this past year, and now I’m fascinated by how the holidays are celebrated in different regions.

I know about a few of the well-known traditions, like baking melomakarona and kourabiedes, decorating the small wooden karavaki (Christmas boat), and, of course, the incredible Christmas and New Year’s feasts. But I’d love to learn more about the customs that don’t get talked about as often.

Do you follow any local traditions from your village or island? Do you bake certain breads, sing kalanta, or do something special on Christmas Eve or St. Basil’s Day? I’m especially interested in the rituals that have been passed down through families. I am learning about Greek cooking and also about the culture.

What was school like in Greece?

I’m Greek, but I never actually went to school in Greece. I only spent summers there growing up. Lately, though, I’ve become really curious about what everyday school life is actually like.

I have close Greek friends who are moving back to Greece permanently, and they have two young children (ages 5 and 7) who will be entering the Greek school system. It made me realize how little I really know about the day-to-day experience beyond what I remember from being around cousins in the summer.

For those of you who went to school in Greece: what was it like, especially in the early years? How structured is the school day? What’s the relationship like between teachers and students? And how do kids generally adjust socially?

I’m genuinely curious what those first school years might feel like for them!

Family Evil Eye Rituals?

I’m Greek and grew up with the “mati” being a normal part of life—but I’ve noticed that every family seems to have their own unique way of dealing with it. I’m really curious to hear how others do it!

In my family, salt plays a huge role. My grandmother always kept a little dish of coarse salt near the icons, and if someone got dizzy, irritable, or just “off,” she’d whisper prayers while tossing salt over their shoulders or dissolving it in water. We also do the oil-and-water trick, watching for the droplets to separate or join. And of course, there’s always the person who knows the secret prayer.

I’ve heard some families use threads, others burn charcoal, or recite specific psalms. What are your family’s evil eye rituals? Do you still practice them? I’d love to hear the different versions passed down through your line!

Symbolism of Christopsomo?

I’ve been reading a bit about christopsomo lately and realized I don’t fully understand all of the symbolism behind it. I know it’s more than just a Christmas bread, and that many families treat it with a lot of reverence, especially on Christmas Day. I’ve seen versions decorated with a cross, nuts, and sometimes intricate patterns pressed into the dough, and I’m curious what each of those elements traditionally represents.

In some households, it seems to be baked only once a year and cut in a very specific way, almost like a ritual. In others, the customs appear to vary by region or family history. I’d love to hear how people learned about christopsomo growing up, and whether the symbolism was explained to them or simply passed down through practice.

If you know the meanings behind the decorations, ingredients, or serving traditions, I’d really appreciate hearing more.
Share and discuss Greek traditions related to Greek weddings, christenings, dance & holidays!

WorldwideGreeks.com is a free online forum community where people can discuss Greek food, travel, traditions, history and mythology.
Join Worldwide Greeks here!

JOIN COMMUNITY FOR FREE

LOGIN TO YOUR ACCOUNT
Back
Top