Athens

I was excited to move to Greece. Another place with a long history and rich culture. I didn't know what to expect though. Besides, I haven't been living in Europe for such a long time, that whatever I would face, would probably be a reverse cultural shock, which I mentioned in the previous post.

The first impression was delightful. I moved here in May, so its was already nice and warm. But what i liked the most, were the neranzties, or bitter orange trees. I simply adore it. Gives Athens so much color and liveliness. Fruits look super tempting, but sadly they are not edible because of their bitterness.

The trees are usually used as decorative street trees and the ripe fruit is left to rot away however, the small green fruits are made into spoon sweet bitter orange preserves.

I heard so many things about Athens. Some people agreed that “it’s a very nice and vibrant place”. Others told me “ You are really going to enjoy your time” while some even envied me for this opportunity. On the other hand, I also received some negative points of view. Friends who traveled or lived there warned me that people in Athens can be loud and rude, and “are not friendly as you’d think they are”. Well isn't it like that in all the big capitals? I heard completely the same for New York. I never let my ears witness what my eyes didn't see. 

For me, it is odd to be in a country, where I can’t read the signs. I speak a few languages, and yet a little good that did me in Athens, where I can't even pick up the basics of conversation. But I found that English could go a long way, and if that fails, waving my hands and trying to explain works just fine. From my experience, I find Greek people extremely hospitable, warm and eager to understand you. They love their coffee, flavorful food and chill time. More about my observations about Greece will be dedicated in next post. 

Athens are lively and buzzing capital, place where history meets modern pace of life. But I never have a feeling of that big city, sorry gotta run, leave me alone and don’t bother me kind of a vibe. It’s rather something I like. Taking it easy, day by day. Ok, some things could be done waaay faster though, but that’s another story.