When I first visited Greece in 2003, my girlfriend (now wife) and I were living in England. From the moment I arrived, I felt an instant connection with the country. The language, the culture, and especially the food captivated me. I knew I wanted to live there. Greece felt like home, and the idea of moving here became stronger over time.
One of the main reasons I relocated to Greece was the weather—the sun, the sea, and the overall Mediterranean lifestyle. Unlike in England, where the weather affected my mental health, Greece offered a natural beauty and climate that greatly improved my quality of life. The people here are incredibly welcoming, known for their “filoxenia”—friendliness to strangers, which made my transition smoother.
Many expats move to Greece for similar reasons, coming from countries like the UK and Germany, seeking a better lifestyle with pleasant weather, good food, and a laid-back way of life. The Mediterranean diet, which is rich in fresh, local ingredients, is unparalleled. Fresh produce is easy to find at local markets, unlike in England where it was a luxury.
I built my life here, and while I had a good life in London—where I met my wife and started a family—the pull to Greece was too strong. The simple pleasures, like being able to walk to the sea or enjoy fresh, flavorful food, were enough to make the move worth it.
Greece became my new goal, just like moving to London was a major achievement in my early life. I embraced learning the language, understanding the culture, and integrating into Greek society. Living here has allowed me to enjoy freedom, nature, and a lifestyle that I wouldn’t trade for anything.
