Colors of Patmos Island - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

The Greeks are a very hospitable people, and the vacation on Patmos will appeal to all those who enjoy life. After all, where else can you be so distracted from work as where almost no one ever works? Of course, this is a bit exaggerated but in general, the locals cannot be called workaholics. A typical day for an islander from Patmos goes something like this: in the morning he puts himself in order, necessarily drinks a cup of coffee, goes to work – and works until about 1 or 2 p.m. After that – a legitimate siesta until 4.30 or 5 p.m., and at nine it is already a time of fiesta, festivities in taverns, and a leisurely dinner with the family.

This is also beside the fact that there are a lot of state holiday days off. Not too busy schedule, is it? In many respects it is connected with the Greek mentality – here it is simply not acceptable to put a lot of efforts into earning money. And in general, the local residents have a peculiar attitude to the wealth – it is normal to spend a couple of thousand euros on a generous festivities but no one will brag about the latest model of i-phone or a prestigious off-road car. The most important thing for a Greek is to enjoy life. If money does not bring it, then why waste extra effort and time to get it?

The locals are quite sincere and emotional people. On Patmos, more than once you will see the Greeks, passionately arguing about something on high tones and actively gesticulating. And this is not a signal of an early fight – here, in principle, it's common to express your feelings roughly. By the way, if you get acquainted with a local resident, you should call him by his last name until he asks you to call him by his first name. The handshake here is appropriate only at the first acquaintance, in the future it is accepted to greet with kisses on both cheeks. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

The The Greeks are great patriots of their country, although they like to criticize the government and the politicians. Never agree with such criticism: if a local resident hears from you the confirmation of his own words, he will probably be offended. Greece can be scolded only by the Greeks. If you want to ear someone’s sympathy, then you should praise the country, the island, the local attractions, and remember the common historical path of Greece and the country you came from. Do it sincerely. If you are a girl, then rest assured that local men will not bypass you with attention – here it is customary to admire women's beauty.

Most locals are friendly to tourists and are always ready to help. By the way, keep in mind that here the norms of politeness assume the need to welcome everyone, entering any institution – whether it's a bank, a shop or a tavern. For the Greeks, the notion of honor is still important. The deception or betrayal of friends and relatives is unacceptable. Most locals are very decent and do not try to deceive travelers. For example, here in many taverns, there is a principle of " tomorrow payment", when you can pay for today's order the next day. Often, this can also be implied to the tourists.

The Greeks are very religious. Most of them profess Christianity on the Orthodox pattern. Christmas, Baptism, Easter, the Assumption of the Virgin and, of course, the day of St. John the Divine are celebrated on Patmos with the greatest scope. The latter is celebrated in May with the procession and festive divine services. There is also the Festival of Religious Music, and the International Documentary Film Festival, and the Folk Dance Festival, and the Carnival. The Independence Day and Okha Day are also accompanied by the large-scale celebrations.