1. Handshake: A firm handshake is the most common greeting in Greece. It is important to maintain eye contact and smile while shaking hands.
2. Kiss on the Cheek: Close friends and family members often greet each other with a kiss on the cheek, starting with the right cheek and then the left. This is usually done between women or between a woman and a man.
3. Hug: In informal settings, friends and family may greet each other with a hug.
4. Nodding and Smiling: A simple nod and smile can also be used as a greeting, especially in casual situations.
5. The Evil Eye Gesture: Known as "mati" in Greek, this gesture is commonly used to ward off evil or bad luck. It involves extending the index and little fingers while holding the other three fingers down and making eye contact with the person.
6. The "Opa!" Gesture: This exclamation, often accompanied by a clapping sound, is used to express joy, excitement, or approval.
7. Finger Gestures: Some finger gestures, such as the middle finger or raising the index and pinky finger while keeping the other fingers down, can be considered offensive in Greece.
8. Head Tilting: Greeks may tilt their head to one side as a way of acknowledging or agreeing.
9. Body Language: Greeks tend to stand quite close when talking and may make direct eye contact.
10. Verbal Greetings: Common verbal greetings in Greece include "Yassas" (Hello) and "Ti kanis?" (How are you?).
11. Addressing Others: It is polite to use formal titles when addressing people, such as "Kyrios" (Mr.), "Kyria" (Mrs.), or "Despoinís" (Miss) followed by the person's last name.