Heading to Greece this summer? A travel expert says doing four simple things could make your holiday far more enjoyable and help you connect with locals properly.
Brits Warned: Don't Go to Greece Without These Phrases
British travellers have been cautioned against visiting the European holiday hotspot if they haven't sorted this one crucial matter. With numerous new rules and regulations being introduced, including EES (entry-exit systems) and various QR codes that can be scanned to expedite processes in different countries, it can be challenging to keep track of what needs to be done before departure. We're all aware of the importance of adhering to luggage weight limits to avoid additional charges, and that arriving with sufficient time to navigate airport security is essential.
However, travel expert Dimitri has cautioned that before landing in Greece, it's equally vital to learn four key phrases that will help you get by and feel more at ease, while demonstrating to locals that you've put in some effort.
He stated: "Don't come to Greece this summer if you don't know these four expressions."
1. Kalimera/Καλημέρα: Good morning
This greeting is used during the morning or daytime hours. The emphasis should be placed on the second syllable, pronouncing it "KA-lee-ME-ra".
2. Kalispera/Καλησπέρα: Good evening
This is the appropriate greeting from late afternoon through to evening. It is pronounced "KA-lee-SPE-ra".
3. Efharisto/Ευχαριστώ: Thank you
Used to express gratitude. It is pronounced roughly as "ef-ha-ri-STO", with a soft guttural 'h' sound represented by 'χ'.
4. Parakalo/Παρακαλώ: You're welcome
This serves as a courteous reply to "thank you," and is also employed when presenting something. It is pronounced "pa-ra-ka-LO".
If you master all of the above, then, while you may not achieve fluent Greek, you'll appear as though you've at least made an effort to engage with locals in their native tongue. Additionally, it will help you feel more comfortable as well.
Dimitri added: "A friendly tone and a smile make these phrases more natural and appreciated."
In the comments, someone wrote: "Having lived in Greece its great to see this and yes, learning the language is a plus. I'd add to those who may feel nervous in doing so, just do it."
A second shared: "I learned these whilst in Greece! The locals were so friendly and kind and loved that we wanted to speak with them in their language."
Somebody joked that they simply needed to use the word "gyro," a beloved Greek street food consisting of tasty, seasoned meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie, then sliced and served wrapped in a soft, grilled flatbread like pitta.
Another said: "Greece is my favourite country would love more than anything to learn the language!!"
