Retsina

An indispensable addition of Greek cuisine is the local wine. The most popular retsina. There is probably the world's second such food product, not to mention the wine, which taste as a preservative effect on the taste and the proper device, as in this particular wine. Flavored with pine resin, it is, give the product durability. It tastes so earth, stones, woods and a little wine. If the resin has the properties of preservatives are only slightly. Retsina is a wine young, aged only after pressing a few weeks and already it can be administered on the table in copper pots. After one year, comparing with vinegar is becoming more relevant.

Greek olive oil

The foundation of the Greek cuisine is olive oil. In antiquity, was also abundantly used in cosmetics: rubbed over her body and hair after a bath. Olive oil consumed raw, cold-pressed in large presses, and poured it on the spit roasted meat. Also eaten olives in its entirety, rather than raw marinated. Today olive oil is the foundation of all Greek dishes, is used for frying, added to salads (such as for us, in an unimaginably large quantities), a component of many sauces and dishes. A visitor may have difficulty getting used to it, but it is slightly greenish digestible fat and healthy. More worrisome to strangers is the temperature of food served, they are only a year, it is better to highlight the natural flavor of food.

The Greek eating habits

A full breakfast is not popular in Greece, while lunch is eaten late in the afternoon. The Greeks used to say, even: "I do not eat breakfast ..." - Before leaving for work only drink a cup of coffee, which they eat crackers, biscuits, or pancakes with jam. At eleven often tend to lump called tyropitta, filled with hot liquid and feta cheese. Lunch is eaten between 13.30 and 17.30. The main meal of the day is dinner, usually eaten in restaurants or taverns around 22.00 or even 23.00.

The Greek people

It is important to realize that as a relatively recent and traumatic experiences affect the current state of the state and nature of ethnic Greeks. Until the early decades of the twentieth century a large part of Greece was in the hands Ottońskich. In the meantime, a number of areas inhabited by Orthodox Greeks of Asia Minor, Egypt, western Europe and northern Balkans. Balkan war in the years 1912 to 1913, the Greek involvement in World War I in 1917 to 1918, the Greek - Turkish War in the years 1919-1922, and a structured exchange of population, caused by each of the emerging conflict, tells of these events have very far-reaching consequences.
But worse was to come along with World War II and the aftermath of the war between the Communists and, by, supported by Britain and the United States, the ruling nationalist armed forces. The cruelty of this period was reflected in the next almost seven years of military dictatorship under jute Colonels from 1967 to 1974 year.
Memories of the time these governments, the dispersion and disasters (including frequent with destructive power of earthquakes), were dangerously close to the consciousness of the Greeks, despite nearly three decades of democratic stability and accession to the European Union. Poverty and endless inability to find work in their own homeland has led many talented Greeks to emigrate. For those who were there came the time of stagnation, until the introduction of total employment policies, which led to the introduction of the lowest in the whole of Western Europe's lowest average wage. One party of this situation led to a lack of initiative of the workers, but imposed more stringent official economic projects met with a series of mass strikes.

Travelling to Greece in the summer

If we can visit Greece only in the middle of summer I'd suggest visiting less crowded parts of the Peleponez, the northern part of the continent or the leading edge of islands with attention focused on the more distant spots. Out of season, especially between late October and late April you need to take into account a reduced number of ferry services to islands and quite skinny range of facilities (ie, equipment rooms, equipment). However, we will be able to find reasonable support for all major routes and at least one hotel and taverna open in the port and main city in all places, the smallest of the islands.

When is the best time to go to Greece?

In most places, people, and we can meet and agree on a very cleverly Greeks, except, of course, peak season running from early July to late August, when temperatures increase rapidly growing crowds of tourists surpassing his number of Greeks themselves.
Do not miss the warmer weather, when you arrive in June or September, well spend time almost everywhere, but especially on the islands. The exception to this rule are, however, the northern coast - especially the peninsula and the islands Hallidhili Samothraki and Thasos, which really can meet and satisfy visitors in June and September.
In October, almost certainly you will meet a stormy period, particularly in western Greece or in the mountains, but by October most of the summer Ayios Dhimirios (the Greek equivalent of the Indian year) prevails. This is particularly in southern Dodakanez and Crete, the place is amazing at that time enjoyable.
Autumn is usually beautiful, the light is softer, the sea is often milder than the wind, and the colors more subtle. The time from December to March are the coldest months and the least reliable, although even then there are many crystal clear, nice day, beautiful lowland flowers begin to bloom early spring.
Weather conditions are deteriorating and low temperatures persist, of course, with a change in the geographical areas, the more the northern zone and increased the amount the longer it will remain cold weather period, for example, showing the same mountains covered with snow from November to May.
Milder winter climate can be found in Rhodes or in the south eastern parts of Crete.
With the spring followed by slow warming, but May is still quite uncertain month, but perfect for admiring the wild flowers, green landscapes and shooting opportunities. During May the weather is a bit more predictable and islands such as Crete, the Peloponnese and Ionian Islands are in the best period to visit, even if the sea is still a little too cold to be swimming in it.
Other factors that affect a proper time for myself to travel to Greece are connected with this which is a rambler, and what with the facilities we are interested. The level of services, especially in taverns, increase under pressure to produce peak season. Standard room reaches its peak in the period from July to September (as well as during Easter and Christmas).

Travelling in Greece

The standard means of public travel on land in Greece are buses. Railway connections are usually very limited, although services on the route Athens - Patra and the Northern Line are gradually improving. However, it is the coaches cover their trails from almost every tourist route in the area of ​​Greece, although not often run on the road side, and provide basic connections in the islands. Travel between the islands are, of course with the need to use the ferries. Ferry connections are extensive and provide a get for each of the 166 inhabited islands. Aircraft are relatively expensive - three or four times the cost for multiplying the ferry taking place on the board, while twice as compared to the cheapest cabin.

Buses
Travel by bus services cover major routes, both on the continent and islands. They are effective and universal. On the road sub-buses will operate less regularly and long stops, but even the most distant villages will be covered by the line connections.

Trains
The Greek railway network, run by the OSE is limited in scope to the mainland and a few small exceptions trains are much slower than their corresponding bus routes. However, must admit that the trains are much cheaper means of transportation.

Maritime transport
Most travel by sea will be reduced to move to the islands and between them. We can make use of the routes between Athens and the south-eastern ports of specific Peleponez until Yithio.

Motorcycles
The cult of motorcycles in Greece is highly developed. Chaired by a jealous god that is a motorcycle, usually requiring regular sacrifice to him.

Car rental
Cars have a basic, obvious advantage, which is the possibility of getting into the least accessible parts of the Greek mainland. However, Greece is one of the most expensive countries in Europe in terms of the cost of renting a car.

Taxis
Greek taxis are among the cheapest in the whole of Western Europe, of course, taking into account that we will get an honest taxi driver.

Greece - brief history

The French Revolution and the defeat of Turkey by Russia, have caused a real explosion of fighting for freedom in Greece. Mastered part of the country, the Greeks declared their independence in 1822r.Alliance of the Balkan countries and the Balkan war (1912 - 1913) meant that Greece has regained a part of Macedonia, Epirus and southern Aegean. In 1924 Greece was proclaimed a republic.In 1941, Greece was occupied by German troops, guerrillas fighting the Nazis in 1944 led to the liberation of Greece. In 1952, joined NATO. In 1967 the military junta took power in Greece and in 1973 announced the abolition of the monarchy.The following year, the junta was overthrown, and a return to parliamentary government. In 1975 passed a new constitution. In May 1980 the parliament elected as president K. Karamanlis, the re-election in 1985. In January 1981, Greece was admitted as a member of the EEC.

Santorini

Santorini is the most wonderful place in the sun for all those who are romantics. The famous pictures of tiny white and blue houses and churches are known throughout the world. It is they who symbolize the Greek holidays, which are connected with relaxation, relaxation and escape from the hustle and bustle of big cities. Stunning scenery and amazing design is the result of the disaster, which took place here three thousand. years. Powerful volcanic eruption buried the island on the ocean floor, giving it an amazing look.

Mystras

Wonderful Mistra (Mystras), is the biggest attraction around the Peloponnese. In surprisingly good condition kept here a complete city in the Byzantine style, was once inhabited by about 20 thousand. citizens. Olympus is also a magical and captivating mountain in Greece, grows on the banks of Thermaikos Gulf. Lower parts of the mountains covered with dense forest and wild flowers that add the divinity and uniqueness of this mountain.

Rhodes

Rhodes is the second lagests island in Greece. Rhodes is one of the most visited Greek islands. Its beautiful sandy beaches on the east coast and the charm of the medieval capital of the island that make it an ideal fit for a holiday. Its picturesque vineyards, olive groves, sleepy villages and the daily life of smiling, hospitable people are just some elements of the landscape of the island. On a picturesque hillside, we can also visit Filerimos valuable, old monastery and the ruins of the temples of Zeus and Venus.

Crete

Crete is an ideal place for a dream vacation or holiday. The stunning scenery of mountain massifs, gorges, caves, fertile plains give it an amazing and unforgettable charm. The biggest tourist attraction is the ruins of the Minoan palace at Knossos and Phaistos, or archaeological remains in Gortynie. Rethimnon is one of the most picturesque towns in Crete, located about 80 km west of Heraklion is famous for its beautiful beach and fortress, built by the Venetians after a series of pirate attacks in the city. Crete is also one of most popular islands for Polish tourists to spend a dream holiday.

Athens

Greece, before all the sights. Its capital city attracts tourists Athens monuments of antiquity, especially the most famous Acropolis. Athens is also great views from the hills and Filopappou Likavitos. At the foot of the Acropolis, Plaka spreads, full of monuments of Byzantine, medieval and early nineteenth century, which seemed so exotic Byron and other romantics. While in Athens we see the monumental Propylaea gate, and the temples of Athens Nike Erechtejon with its famous cloister. Visiting Athens, we can finish watching Atticus Odeon Herodosa, the tower of the winds, the Temple of Olympian Zeus and the stadium Kali Marmaro, which held the first modern Olympic Games. Athens also famous for the best restaurants in Greece. It works in many beautiful cafes, taverns and gardens and street markets to the Greek main dishes include the popular also in Poland, gyros and Greek salad.

Greek industry

The main natural resources of Greece are beautiful landscapes and warm, sunny climate which attracts thousands of tourists from around the world. From the bottom of the Aegean mined oil and gas, and the Pindos Mountains, which are swift river, play a significant role in electricity production. Greece is a country in which created 4,000 years ago was the cradle of civilization. The Greeks had a huge contribution to scholarship, philosophy, art, literature, theater and sports. It is the leading philosophers Aristotle, Plato and Socrates. It was the Greeks developed the idea of democracy, ie government by the people. They believed in living in the Mount Olympus of gods and goddesses, creating many myths tell of their lives.

History of Greece

Greece is the nucleus of European civilization. About 2500 BC Crete Minoan culture developed. Residents living in these areas focused mainly in the larger cities and were mainly trade throughout the Mediterranean. After 1400 years BC culture has been supplanted by a come from the mainland, the Mycenaean culture. Current areas of Greece since the year 1000 BC peoples were conquered by the north, who founded the independent city states such as Athens and Sparta. Becoming the most powerful countries often there have to fight between them, however, able to unite and stand together in defense against invaders from Persia. In 338 BC all of Greece was conquered by the ruler of Macedonia, Alexander the Great. In 146 BC Greece was overrun by the Romans and from 330 to 1453 was part of Byzantium and the later period of the reign of the Ottoman Empire. Greece has freed itself from the Turkish occupation in 1829. Greece fully democratic country has become in 1975. Today is one of the countries of the European Union whose main driving force behind the economy is tourism.

Geography of Greece

Characteristics of the terrain of Greece is a natural bay, the high mountains, deep valleys and limestone cliffs growing on the thorny bushes and fragrant herbs, which feed on here grazing sheep and goats. Spring Season changes in the local meadows covered with flowers, carpets, and during hot and dry summer turns into a barren land. Around the built-white traditional Greek houses, villages, spread out the olive groves and wheat fields. Characteristics of the intermingling of Greek cities in ancient monuments and buildings with modern buildings. The prevailing there, a large movement of pedestrians and car often poses a threat to historic buildings. To change this unfavorable trend Greece has introduced strict laws restricting the movement of cars in the city and forced factories to reduce emissions of harmful substances.

Driving in Greece

You must have an international driving permit (preferably with the original - national). International Driving Permit (IDP) issued by local departments of communication on application, a photo presentation of the license and ID card and the payment of 11 zł. It has a three-year period of validity. According to the Ministry of Transport, all European countries except Albania, Greece and Switzerland (not signed the Vienna Convention of 1968) simply honor the Polish driving license issued after January 1, 1971. However, it is regarded as an IDP additional proof of identity, written in several languages. MPJ should be translated into Greek (preferably in the Office of the Hellenic Ministry of Foreign Affairs Translators, Athens Street. Voukourestiou 3, tel 324 40 35, 324 40 82). Of course, you must also have proof of registration and current insurance.

Beach Party

Who doesn't love a good beach party? We love them and in Greece we have many! We're just waiting for the warmer days to come and we'll be spending all nights at the beach! I can't wait to smell the beach barbeque and relax under the stars!

Who is cyberstalking you?

I've been looking for interesting Greek names (for no particular reason:) and I came across an interesting website about cyberstalking. It's called StalkInfo.com and it tells you if your name has been searched for on the Internet and it will even show you the location of your stalkers!

Of course I searched also for my own name (Julia), but it wasn't in the database yet. So I added it and soon will see the results if I have an Internet stalker, or not:)

The Ancient Greeks and their heritage

The ancient Greeks are treated today as one of the sources of our civilization and culture. This applies above all to philosophy and art, mainly to Greek classical period. Already in the works of the creators of Ancient Rome, this period was admired and treated as a luxury. The art of this period is often considered of secondary importance. Perhaps the reason for this state of affairs are meager written sources and material that have been preserved to this day.

Getting to Crete by car

To reach Crete by car you will have to take a ferry from Piraeus. The ferries sail to Iraklion, Rethymnon and Chania. Prices are dependent on the standard and speed of the shuttle. The main selection criteria in my case was the price and nighttime flow so I chose the Elyrosa Anek Lines. We paid 146 Euro for two and the car. The ferry which sails from Piraeus at 22:00 arrives in Chania at 6:00 in the morning.