Earth-friendly Greece Archives

Category: Destinations/Earth-friendly Greece/Tips & More/Travel

Traveling Differently: 5 Ecotourism Resorts in Greece

Posted On January 17, 2020March 20, 2020 By Maria Paravantescomment

Greece is naturally an eco-friendly destination offering a constantly increasing variety of responsible travel options from farm retreats and eco-resorts to agritourism units meeting the demands of the most environmentally aware traveler.

Category: Destinations/Earth-friendly Greece/News

Ecoweek Crete: Tourism for a Greener Future

Posted On November 5, 2019March 17, 2020 By Maria Paravantescomment

Despite being cast – often violently – into the international spotlight for the ongoing refugee influx, the growing joblessness, the political havoc and the ailing economy – let’s face it, good news is usually no news – Greece also boasts dozens of stories of people working together to re-invent a better, brighter, healthier Greece, one Discover…

Category: Earth-friendly Greece/News/Travel

Hiking in Greece: A Step Towards Sustainable Tourism

Posted On June 27, 2019January 9, 2020 By Maria Paravantescomment

Hiking tourism is gaining momentum in Greece, with all the more travelers visiting for the trek.

Hi! I’m Maria, a Chicago-born Greek-American living and working in Greece as a professional journalist for the past 30 years. Like you, I love traveling, eating, drinking, relaxing, and having fun, and I know exactly where and how to do just that in Greece. If you want to get the most out of your trip to Greece, then look no further. As a seasoned travel and tourism professional but also as a traveler myself, I know from firsthand experience Greece’s best-kept secrets and much more. So join me and let’s Travel, Learn and Grow… in Greece, together.

What do you do when you receive a “kerasma”?

“Kerasma” means “treat” or “to be treated” and it is one of Greeks’ favorite ways to show affection. They either like you – as an indirect form of flirting, they are fond of your company demonstrating friendship or they are extending their hospitality.

A “kerasma” is usually declared out loud: “Kernao ego” by the one doing it.

Always accept, of course! You are being treated to food, drink, coffee and sweet by a friend. Be grateful and enjoy!

In the case the “kerasma” is sent over by someone keen on flirting, you can either accept or decline politely. On Crete, of course, this is often not recommended. Cretans are very persistent and take offence when being turned down.

When a “kerasma” is accepted you raise your glass to the person who sent it over (you’ll be shown by the waiter) raise your glass and simply nod and/or smile depending on how far you want to go. If you like the sender and would mind coming a bit closer, you can also send a “kerasma” in return after you finish yours of course (this applies to drinks).