Dress Codes -- Most Greeks wear bathing suits only on the beach and do not go into restaurants, cafes, or shops without putting something over their swimsuits. Also, most Greeks consider bare feet off the beach seriously odd and quite rude. And almost no Greek man would go into a church in shorts and virtually no Greek woman would go into church in a sleeveless top or shorts. Slacks for women are now acceptable almost everywhere, except in the most traditional churches and monasteries.

Saying Hello and Goodbye -- Few Greeks go into a bakery and say "Loaf of bread, please," and then pay and leave. Almost all encounters begin with a greeting: "Kali mera" (Good day) is always acceptable, but on Monday, you'll hear "Kali ebdomada" (Good week) and on the first of the month "Kalo mena" (Good month). Sprinkle your requests on how to find the Acropolis or where to buy a bus ticket with "Sas para kalo" (Excuse me, please) and "Eucharisto" (Thanks) and you'll help to make Greeks reconsider all those things they've come to believe about rude tourists! And on that topic, although most Greeks don't mind having their photo taken, always ask first. If you are traveling with your dog, know that most Greeks do not regard dogs as house pets, but as outdoor watchdogs. Except in chic city cafes, don't sit down with your dog without asking permission.
