what are taboos in greece

[24] With the later writers Ovid and Hyginus, Persephone's time in the underworld becomes half the year.[25]. We will be in Athens and Santorini in August. The Christening isn't for a few months, but I know that the church seems to be a bit behind and I have no idea how long it will be until I get the list! You are using an out of date browser. S USAN B UCK S UTTON User Contributions: 1. In ancient times, the bracelet was made to protect the person wearing it from disease and from the spring sun. For a more comprehensive guide on public transport in Athens, read this article! [3:7-8] God realizes that they are hiding and interrogates them about having eaten from the tree whereupon Adam assigns the blame to Eve and Eve assigns it to the serpent. Greek tragedy likes to rework older myths to bring out the nastiest aspects of human relationships, especially within the family. Show sympathy and solidarity if conversation turns to Greeces economic situation. But if thats the actual local norms, I think Greece would actually suit me much much better than I thought! Most of all, I hope it helps you to enjoy your holiday.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'lifebeyondbordersblog_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_2',119,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-lifebeyondbordersblog_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0'); Nicely written! I will go again for sure. You can tip as much as you want or you can still no tip at all. Euripides makes Medea breach a fundamental taboo: the bond. Besides the Islands where else in Greece should I go? Avoid drawing on ideas of ancient Greece to inform your assumptions of contemporary Greek culture. Tourism doesnt have to mean being a disrespectful douche, but also should not ever mean being required to conform, however temporarily, to a religion, even if its to cover my shoulders. Possibly the most famous eating taboo (if not taboo, in general) is in the story of Adam and Eve in the Abrahamic religions. Greek food is lots more than that, so be a little adventurous! People often wear their backpacks in front of their bodies to protect themselves from people accessing their backpacks, especially in the metro or the bus. Is there any source that establishes or explains . Greeks almost never back pack and those who do usually go to the islands and never hitchhike. Yes, they sure know how to treat eating and drinking as a lifestyle choice as opposed to just filling your stomach. [23] In other interpretations, Persephone is seen eating the pomegranate seeds as a result of temptation or hunger. You are the one being correct stay that way. Great info!! [citation needed]. Loved your post! Does anyone know of any good resources for learning Greek dances? For example, the metro is the easiest and most convenient way of getting around in Athens. You know the rule: always pack light! Ive never been, but its free (as is the National Gardens) and looks lovely. 5 Key Topics or Gestures to Use in Conversation, 5 Key Topics or Gestures to Avoid in Conversation, Cultural Clues, Dos & Taboos for HONG KONG, Author: Gayle Cotton, International Keynote Speaker & Cultural Expert, Gayles Bestselling Book SAY Anything to Anyone, Anywhere! While the Greeks may criticize aspects of their society or daily life (politics, traffic etc.) Allow yourself some time to relax and get acquainted with everything an island has to offer! Or do you know how to improve StudyLib UI? 98% of the 10.6m population of Greece speak Greek, which is the country's official language. I write about hotels in this glorious country (Greece), I write about destinations, but one thing I do get asked a lot about is what to wear (for which I created my Greek Island All Round Packing Guide to help you out) and also my Recommended Anti-Theft Travel Items for those with travel security on their minds. What is the safe score in JEE Mains 2021? I always recommend not standing out as a tourist ie: huge camera hanging from neck, speaking loudly to each other in English so you stand out, looking at maps standing in the middle of a crowded, bustling market area, etc.Uber is not used in Greece (and quite a few other European cities). I recently returned from Greece and had the unfortunate experience of having my passport picked out of my front pocket and I had only been in the country 1 hour! Greeks celebrate spring with an age-old tradition of martis, a red and white bracelet made of thread, which is worn during the whole month of March. A historically big taboo in Greece is one of marrying someone who is not Greek. Conservative attitudes are changing as a result. Do learn some common Greek words and phrases to use in conversation. Basics: Business . I am curious, where in the word are there the best celebrations? Orpheus, the son of Apollo, was well-renowned as a legendary musician whose music could move anything and everything, living or not, in the world. GESTURES Thumbs down is usually considered rude. Hugging, kissing on the cheek and walking arm in arm are all common. Although there is no norm for tipping in Greece unlike in North American culture, it is still a good practice to tip and reward good service. [4] Having invited some of the Tongan aristocracy to dinner aboard his ship, Cook wrote: Not one of them would sit down, or eat a bit of any thing. [3:9-13] As a result, God condemns Eve with pain in childbirth and subordination to her husband, he condemns Adam to have to labor on the earth for his food and be reduced into the earth at death, and in the Christian tradition, he condemns all of humanity for this original sin. The National Gardens in the centre near Syntagma Square has over 500 different plants, trees and bushes from worldwide but the Botanical Gardens in the Athens neighbourhood of Halandri has more native species. What a dream to live in Greece! They are well educated and will have a wide of range knowledge about the political issues. What happens if prostatitis is left untreated? These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. I think it's very important to know these things before travelling to any country! We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. The Greeks get together over a coffee and chat loudly. T-shirts are even fine its just so long as you have your shoulders covered so no sleeveless t-shirts.Women can always grab a little sarong to throw over their shoulders thats what I do. In its current use in Tongan, the word tapu means "sacred" or "holy", often in the sense of being restricted or protected by custom or law. I am reading all I can about visiting Greece so that I do not unknowingly offend anyone. As he reached the upper world, Orpheus looked back toward Eurydice in his eagerness to reunite with her, tragically forgetting about the looking taboo given to him by Hades, and since Eurydice had not crossed into the upper world, she vanishes back into the Underworld, this time forever. So lets start off with clothing. Consider Meteora, with its gorgeous mountain top monasteries, or Delphi, with its rich ancient history and ruins.You can easily take a train (the national suburban railway) or bus to go there. We try our best to blend in. I don't have time to travel far this year, but I could keep in mind for next year. By clicking Accept All, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. Actaeon, whilst on a hunting trip in the woods, mistakenly and haplessly happened upon the bathing Artemis. So much to do in both Athens and Santorini, but it will be very hot, so bring plenty of high sunscreen, especially for the children.I wouldnt try to climb up to the Acropolis from midday onwards make sure you aim to do it early morning or later in the early evening, its too hot.Most of all, enjoy your travels! Thank you Ismini. I like your site, and it is a nice resource for people to learn a little about what to expect before they arrive. What to bring to church as a godparent during Christening? Its been banned because the taxis in Athens are so cheap. The skirt over trousers thing isnt everywhere but just in some of the stricter places. Demons and the Devil: Moral Imagination in Modern Greek Culture, 1991. Do try the frappe, its a delicious drink! In the village squares, you will see the traditional type of cafeteria in Greece, the kafenion. All shops should accept credit cards according to a recent law but do carry cash with you just in case. Or if there's anything that I should avoid doing because I don't wanna offend anyone. You are welcome to head to the contact form on my site and if I can answer anything, I most certainly will try. First names are commonly used however, for higher business levels they may add a title such as Mr. or Mrs. before a first name as a sign of respect. Do not look behind you, nor stop anywhere in the Plain; flee to the hills, lest you be swept away. [30][31] Whether it be due to forgetfulness or outright resistance, Actaeon defied his speaking taboo and called for his hunting dogs. Great youre trying a few phrases. Cash is the preferred method of payment in many shops even if they have a debit/credit machine. Do use public transportation in Athens as the stops are well linked with all major attractions. On the main island, the word is often appended to the end of "Tonga" as Tongatapu, here meaning "Sacred South" rather than "Forbidden South". The reality that feta cheese is one of the most versatile contributes to the fact it is often used, but there are dozens of cheeses available throughout the country, without mentioning the local varieties. Cultural, religious and food taboos are not mutually exclusive. If you forget one, youll easily be able to find one in Greece. Do lock valuables in your hotel/hostel. If you go visiting the monasteries of Meteora in Central Greece, even if a woman is wearing trousers you have to cover with a wrap around skirtand they helpfully provide this.Etiquette in Greece: Wrap around skirt provided at Monastery visit in Meteora Greece. NEVER blame a Greek for a mistake, even if it is their fault because they will think that they are getting shamed. I am not endorsing them as I dont have their products as they are U.S. based and shipping to Europe is more expensive than their products! I totally love this post! [46], A looking taboo can be found in the Judeo-Christian telling of the story of Lot found within the Book of Genesis. By 2014, that . Have traveled in Europe no problem with etiquette..we are overgrown..lol..in our 50s. Click on the image below, Things to know before travelling to Greece, Syntagma Metro Station Archaeological Collection, Hynes Eagle 40L Review The Best Carry-On Backpack to Avoid Paying Airline Baggage Fees, https://www.lifebeyondbordersblog.com/cultural-faux-pas-around-the-world/, https://www.lifebeyondbordersblog.com/greek-dishes-top-things-eat-drink-athens-greece/, https://www.lifebeyondbordersblog.com/greek-island-all-round-packing-list/, https://www.lifebeyondbordersblog.com/privacy-policy/, https://www.touchscreentravels.com/apps/greeces-best/. They will maintain strong eye contact when speaking. While most Greeks are honest people, some can try to take advantage of the fact that youre a tourist; always check that the meter is running and confirm how much the fee will be with the driver ahead of time. Never imply that the Greek people somehow deserved the financial crisis or that they caused their own economic demise. Naturally the churches get upset when people wander in off the beach just in their beachwear, which you will not do I assume. I dont take it as conforming, however; I peruse it as being merely respectful of others around me, irrespective of what country I am in.I am mindful of being an Ambassador for my country when I travel and do wish to behave respectfully, therefore if it means covering my shoulders to go inside a church (my choice to go inside a church, I could choose not to), then I have no right to insist that I dont cover my shoulder just because I am a tourist and my host country must suck it up. If there is any sucking up going on, then it must be me, the tourist, who does so. noun. The English term taboo comes from tapu in Oceanic languages, particularly Polynesian languages, with such meanings as "prohibited" or "forbidden". It will be fun and you will be amazed with how many words in English language derive from Greek! [1] Greece is a globalised, technologically advanced country and such stereotypes are grossly misinformed. This is an occurrence wherever you are in the world). The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". Just enjoy your drink slowly! Let us know in the comments below! Thanks Vanessayep! Among other reasons, this taboo may come from concern that comments may be taken out of the appropriate context and used to make ill-informed policy decisions that would lead to (otherwise preventable) maternal death. Taboos are often meant to protect the individual, but there are other reasons for their development. At junctions you often wait for a sign but in the end nothing happens and they turn or go straight on with no indication whatsoever. On the subject of pedestrians: they are also a menace! Something that won't be hard for Americans to understand, given the way we claim to venerate veterans and war memorials: show the same respect to Greek war memorials. Its so nice to share and not be individualistic. WOW. The terms menstruation and menses are derived from the Latin mensis ('month'), which in turn is cognate with the Greek mene ('moon') and the roots of the English words month and moon.. It may not display this or other websites correctly. Visitors to Greece should be prepared for meetings to start a bit late and also run late, however as a foreigner you will be expected to be on time for appointments. "Second Trimester Abortion Provision: Breaking the Silence and Changing the Discourse", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Taboo&oldid=1148509370, This page was last edited on 6 April 2023, at 16:14. Overpacking can really destroy the joy of traveling, not just from the hassle of carrying all the extra weight around but also the extra cost that may be associated with additional luggage from airline companies. Just like today, relationships in the ancient world formed the bedrock of society and took on many different forms. The Greeks often use the phrase slowly, slowly when talking about making progress. If so, what should I give? But when vacationing on the islands, you should drink bottled water since the water tanks used on the Greek Islands are for water used for bathing or doing the laundry, but not for consumption. Take the time to show some thoughtfulness and consideration into peoples lives, no matter your familiarity with them. Its sunny, you will need jumpers though as it gets windy on the islands maybe a windproof jacket too? The Greek style of conversation can be louder and more emotional than what some people may be used to. Her body was discovered by Orpheus who, overcome with grief, played such sad and mournful songs that all the humans, nymphs, and gods learnt about his sorrow and grief and wept with him. by gayle | Dec 27, 2019 | Articles, Cultural Clues, Do's & Taboo's. The Latest! What is it that godparents need to bring to the Christening? That's going to reflect on their attitudes towards what age would be "proper" to have sex, which in primitive cultures tends to be first menstruation for a woman. Sutton, Susan Buck, ed. One things the Greeks love is their coffee. Be sure to visit the country during this period its fun! Thanks Kylee its always great to meet a fellow Grecophile. Thanks for your message Virginia. Being in my late 60s, I no longer wear shorts except around my own home or sleeveless blouses. Do expect metro or bus strikes, especially in the summer. Tx this was most informative. Are there other games people play? Show some modicum of decency. I am so excited, I have just been asked to be a godmother. Ive managed to make an immersion blender quite successful in imitating the frappe! The average coffee meeting for a Greek is about 1 and half hours. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent. You have to come back soon! . A list of why:if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'lifebeyondbordersblog_com-leader-2','ezslot_12',115,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-lifebeyondbordersblog_com-leader-2-0'); Some customs and etiquette in Greece tips for Driving and Public Transport: Do wait an extra few seconds before crossing the road after your man has turned green to allow cars to actually acknowledge theyre required to stop. All Ive ever seen on the internet is about holidaymaking in Greece which gave me the total opposite impression of your first two tips! Food Taboos A Food taboo is a restriction on what foods are considered appropriate to eat, as well as appropriate ways to eat foods. It is an acceptable practice in Greece to bargain but many stores have fixed prices. Greeks commonly share the personal details of their lives and appreciate when others do the same. Im glad you enjoyed it and can relate. It is taboo for the husband to stay at home and watch the kids while his wife works. Anchises does not heed this speaking taboo and later brags about his encounter with Aphrodite, and as a result, he is struck in the foot with a thunderbolt by Zeus. Very often you can be surprised with what you come across. Politics can be a touchy subject for foreigners so unless they initiate the discussion, it is best to avoid this topic when you are first developing a relationship. Dont repeat the bad words without knowing exactly what they mean, especially the one starting with "M" and ending with an "A"! I booked my trip for April 2020 not realising that there wont be boats and a lot of places are closed during the Easter time. advertisement CULTURAL TABOOS IN GREECE COMMUNICATION STYLE Greeks tend to speak quite loudly and with a lot of emotions. When there are rules north Americans abide by them. Should I let my dog go through one heat cycle? The most notable looking taboo in Greek myth can be found in the story of Orpheus and Eurydice. It will show your interest in the country and the culture; even if youre not perfect, your effort will be appreciated by Greeks! Dont get into taxis without asking how much they will charge you. The official monetary unit of Greece is the Euro and no other currency is accepted. Mythology. This is essential to fostering good relationships. Never add cream to carbonara. I will be going to Greece mid-April 2020, and it will be my first time. Changing social customs and standards also create new taboos, such as bans on slavery; extension of the pedophilia taboo to ephebophilia;[51] prohibitions on alcohol, tobacco, or psychopharmaceutical consumption (particularly among pregnant women), also sexual harassment and sexual objectification are increasingly becoming taboo in recent decades. Its almost impossible that the backpacker you met in the center of Athens was Greek. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. If you find yourself running out of cash, the best and most convenient way to get more cash is from an ATM. Although it's not common, it does happen and is something you need to be cautious of. !We are planning a trip to Greece in June with our one year old son. If youre returning to Athens to catch a flight back home, make sure you allow enough time in between. Took me a while to come around to the frappe. [42][43] After eating from the tree (thus breaking the eating taboo), Allah removes Adam and his wife from their paradisal garden, telling them that mankind will be condemned with some being enemies with others on the earth wherein they will be provided habitation and provision, for a while,[44][45] and "There shall ye live, and there shall ye die, and thence shall ye be brought forth. Well, please think twice when visitingGreece (or any foreign culture to be honest). You can download a App called Beat and link it to your credit card and order taxis from that. Uhm, you are very wrong. 1. Like in many parts of Europe, this is a customary greeting that is done in a more personal setting. Its clean, easy to use (and cheap) feels safe (Ive not had any problems, touch wood) and as mentioned, quite classy. Talking of clothing: I am not going to just single women out. When meeting someone for the first time, they shake hands firmly, smile, and maintain direct eye contact. A unified, searchable interface answering your questions on the world's cultures and religions. Be always aware of your personal belongings, especially in the means of public transport. I generally do not like carrying a large amount of cash with me so having a credit card is a must. Bobbi Bob. I had THE strongest mojito at Brettos in April. Do you (males) walk around topless in the summer in your home town? ? Try to be open about yourself if you can. Do remember to give way on a roundabout, that means stopping for cars that want to come onto the roundabout as they just wizz onto it. Im a 57yr old single lady NOT looking for my Shirley Valentine moment. But I woukd stay in Plaka or near Plaka, am I safe to go out & have dinner by myself? So long as your shoulders are covered, youll be fine. Greeks live their lives with an exclamation point. "[Quran7:25(Translated byPickthall)], However, in the Gnostic telling of this story, the taboo is a plot by the archons to keep Adam in a state of ignorance by preventing him from eating the fruit, which allows him to attain gnosis after the serpent, who is viewed as representative of the divine world, convinces him and Eve to eat it. "Interview with Frederick S. Berlin, M.D., Ph.D.", "German High Court Takes a Look at Incest", "Professor Accused of Incest With Daughter". When one travels, one gets used to being aware of surroundings, etc. More Greek words for taboo. Follow Us A community built resource for cross-cultural etiquette and understanding . The thing to remember is its not STRICT STRICT and I am sure as youre seasoned travellers anyway, you have knowledge and common sense. Going out for a coffee is a distinctive habit for the Greeks, a strong part of their culture. Why its a pleasure to fly A short trip to Berlin, Germany the Berlin Welcome Card, Essential reading for your trip to Greece includes (shameless self promotion): My debut novel, The Greeks tend not to obey the speed limit at all: and thats not on the lower side of it, They tend not to wear their seatbelts in cars or crash helmets on bikes, The rules for roundabouts is this weird system whereby you give way to the cars, Stopsigns: virtually ignored. Do use the ATMs widely available around the country. So you wont be confused.But alas, in my experience the Greeks seem not to understand the concept of waiting for people to disembark the train first before boarding, so be warned its a bit of a free for all.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'lifebeyondbordersblog_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_4',126,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-lifebeyondbordersblog_com-large-mobile-banner-2-0'); See my Insiders Guide to Visiting Athens for some advice of things to do when visiting the capital on a city break and base yourself in the small, affordable luxury suites of Sir Athens central and yet hidden away from the hustle bustle. I want to give them a gift of appreciation! Also on smaller roads beware of vehicles just stopped in the road or been driven in the middle and most disconcerting of all is the use of hazard lights instead of indicators. So my collaboration post with other travel writers and bloggers about Cultural faux pas around the world may interest you too. they do not appreciate the same criticisms being offered by outsiders. I chose a Classical Athens Tour and learnt so much about Greek history, tradition and food. Knowing the do's and donts of Greece gives both to you as tourist and the local people a better experience and helps you avoid any unpleasant encounters! Avoid provoking conversation about Greeces relationship with Cyprus, Turkey or North Macedonia. Its very important for us! Aphrodite had fallen in love with the mortal Anchises after Zeus persuaded Eros to shoot her with an arrow to cause these emergent feelings. If you find yourself a bit lost while traveling around, feel free to kindly ask a local about directions. Dont show your bare legs or shoulders in a church, especially not a monastery, and men: please keep that singlet on. Well being a Greek Canadian.. no Canadian do not walk around topless. Malicious blasphemy and the abhorrence of religions (Article 198): Imprisonment of up to 2 years for anyone who maliciously swears at God and who publicly and maliciously swears at the Greek Orthodox Church or any religion tolerated in Greece.. Athens International Airport Greece. [3:6] After eating the forbidden fruit, Adam and Eve are aware of their nakedness and cover themselves with fig leaves and hide from God. LOL. That root tapu is reflected, among others, by Tongan or Mori tapu, and by Hawaiian kapu. Do accept a greeting with two kisses on the cheek. While the Greeks may criticize aspects of their society or daily life (politics, traffic etc.) Although, again sadly, I cannot get the frappe Nescaf mix so I use the kind we get here. Do get a prepaid euro currency credit card for shopping, as most stores in Greece besides the smaller convenient and corner stores accept debit and credit card payments.