Information about Greece

The population of Greece:

The population of Greece's 11.1 million people and 98% of the population - the Orthodox. The density of population in Greece: 80 people per square kilometer, while Greece is 132.000km2.

Athens is the capital of Greece with a population of 3,192,606 and it’s located in the Attica region. The town is named after the Greek goddess of wisdom and knowledge, and this city is the cradle of democracy.

In accordance with the constitution of 1975, the political system in Greece is a parliamentary-presidential republic. The whole country is divided into 52 administrative regions. All times are in Greece GMT +2 hours. Almost all Greeks speak English or German languages. Many people now learn Russian. The Greeks are friendly and hospitable; they are always ready to answer any question or help to a foreigner. It’s easy to find friends and new friends on this hospitable land for all visitors of Greece.

Story

Hundreds of books have been written about the history of this amazing ancient state which is strategically located at the crossroads of three continents - Europe, Asia and Africa. Citizens of this country stood at the cradle of European civilization, and they have created such areas of science and art as literature, medicine, astronomy, mathematics and founded a democratic society where leaders are elected by the people in the elections.

On the other hand, this piece of paradise has always been a "bone of contention" and many of the militant tribes and nations sought to conquer - Persians, Roma, Turks, they all wanted to join Greece to his possessions.

Flag

National Flag of Greece consists of white stripes and a cross on a blue field. The blue color symbolizes the sky and the white hope for the independence of the country despite the attempts of many countries to conquer Greece. Nine bands symbolize the nine geographical regions of Greece. The current flag was adopted in 1862.

Climate of Greece

The climate in Greece is very friendly and comfortable (Mediterranean) with a dry and sunny summer, ideal for relaxing and thanks to the cool seasonal breezes that called "Meltemiya" the climate is very comfortable even for those who has heart problems and pressure diseases.  This is an ideal time for rest, walking by the sea and the beautiful surroundings, to receive solar and sea bathing on the magnificent sandy beaches to active nightlife or quiet romantic evenings on the veranda with views of the sunset.

On the other hand, winter is mild and warm; the snow falls only in the mountains, and almost never at the foot. Spring is the rainy season, at which time all starting to grow.

Life

Life in Greece takes place in a more relaxed and smooth rhythm, perhaps due to the climate, perhaps because of the lack of stress and stress of big cities, and tranquility of small towns and villages where actually is the whole "tourist factory in Greece."

Greeks are traditionally big fans of good food, good coffee and a fun night life, that’s why there are many taverns, restaurants, cafes and bars where friends meet to spend time together and talk about everything. Restaurant or tavern (Greek Restaurants) is able to satisfy the most demanding customer.

Shopping

Shops are open all week except on Sundays from 08:00 to 14:00 and from 17:30 until further n 20:30 Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. Supermarkets are open all week except on Sundays from 08:00 to 18:00 or 19:00 without a lunch break. Periods of seasonal discounts accounted for January-February and August-September.

In Greece, the price of virtually all consumer goods is lower than in Western Europe.

Transport

Greece has a well-organized transport infrastructure with the participation of all of the available types of transport and timetable structured in such a way that any resident or tourist can get to any place in Greece for a few hours (especially during the tourist season from April to October when traffic flows are increasing by tens of times).

Currency

The euro has replaced the official currency of Greece - Drachma in February 2002. Any convertible currency can be exchanged at the bank at the current rate. Banks are open Monday to Thursday from 08:00 to 14:00 and Friday from 08:00 to 13:30.

Useful phone numbers

The international code of Greece: 0030
Police: 100
Fire: 199
Ambulance: 166
SOS Doctors: 1016