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Greece is a country with stunning landscapes, rich history, and a unique culture that has captivated visitors for centuries. However, like any other place, it has its downsides. After living here for 14 years, I’ve experienced the good, the bad, and the ugly. Today, I want to share with you some of the things I find frustrating about life in Greece.

1. The Mass Consumption of News

One of the first things that struck me when I moved to Greece was the omnipresence of television, particularly news channels, in almost every shop and business. Initially, it seemed like a convenient way to stay informed while going about daily activities. However, over time, I’ve realized that this constant stream of news, often negative and sensationalized, contributes to a pervasive sense of anxiety and pessimism. Watching the news might make you feel informed, but it rarely improves your outlook on life. I’ve lived here long enough to see how this has affected the general mood of the population.

2. Greeks Being Negative About Greece

It’s disheartening to see how many Greeks are overly critical of their own country. While it’s natural to acknowledge a country’s flaws, there seems to be a deep-seated negativity among some Greeks that borders on defeatism. This attitude is likely fueled by the constant barrage of negative news. What’s surprising is that many believe these issues are unique to Greece, not realizing that other countries face similar challenges. This mindset not only dampens the national spirit but also affects how outsiders perceive Greece.

3. Stray Animals

The issue of stray animals, particularly dogs, is a significant problem in Greece. While the sight of cats lounging in the sun on a Greek island is charming, encountering packs of stray dogs in urban areas is far from idyllic. These dogs can be aggressive, and there have been numerous cases of people being attacked. It’s heartbreaking to see animals suffering on the streets, and while some locals do their best to care for them, the problem remains widespread and distressing.

4. Rubbish

Littering is a persistent issue in Greece, and it’s something that deeply bothers me. Despite the country’s natural beauty, it’s common to see trash strewn across beaches, parks, and even streets. This isn’t just an eyesore; it reflects a lack of environmental awareness and responsibility. I often feel like a hypocrite showcasing Greece’s beautiful landscapes when I know there’s rubbish hidden just out of frame. It’s a problem that needs addressing through better education and stronger community initiatives.

5. Airbnb and Housing Problems

The rise of Airbnb has had a significant impact on the housing market in Greece, particularly in Athens. While short-term rentals provide an income boost for property owners, they’ve also driven up housing prices, making it difficult for locals to find affordable accommodation. This issue isn’t unique to Greece; cities like Barcelona and Lisbon are facing similar challenges. However, the lack of regulation and the erosion of community life in certain neighborhoods in Athens are particularly troubling.

6. Bribery and Corruption (Fakelaki)

Bribery, known locally as “fakelaki,” is a deeply ingrained part of Greek culture. It’s disconcerting how casually people discuss giving money to doctors or other professionals to receive better or faster service. Even though some people might justify it as necessary due to low wages or inefficiencies, it perpetuates a cycle of corruption that undermines trust in public institutions. The normalization of such practices is what I find most troubling—it’s not just about the money, but the ethics and integrity of society.

7. Using My Channel to Spread Negativity

Lastly, I want to address a trend I’ve noticed on my channel. Many people use the comments section to vent their frustrations about Greece. While I understand the need to express dissatisfaction, I find it counterproductive to constantly dwell on the negative. My channel is a platform where I share my experiences as a foreigner living in Greece, and while I believe in being honest and balanced, I also want to focus on the positives. There’s already enough negativity out there; I prefer to use my platform to highlight the good life that I enjoy here, despite the challenges.

Conclusion

Living in Greece has been an incredible journey, full of highs and lows. While there are aspects of life here that can be frustrating, I believe in addressing them with a balanced perspective. It’s easy to focus on the negatives, but there’s also so much beauty and joy to be found in this country. After 14 years, Greece is still my home, and I’m committed to contributing positively to its community, even if that means sometimes having to pick up a little rubbish along the way.