Greece is undoubtedly a dream holiday destination for foreigners. But does it also make it a paradise to live in if you are not a local?
The British-Venezuelan Daniel Carrizalez has the answer – because he has sticks of London in the UK and settled in Nafplio in the Peloponnese region with his family in 2010.
Fourteen years later – any regrets?
Not by the sounds of it. The 49-year-old music composer and online entrepreneur moved with his wife and four-month-old daughter and has since had another daughter in Greece.
He told MailOnline Travel: ‘We were drawn to the Mediterranean lifestyle, rich culture and beautiful landscapes. Greece offered a slower, more fulfilling pace of life and a chance to raise our family surrounded by history, nature and strong community values.’
Daniel says he had never experienced such a wonderful ‘sense of community’ before moving to Greece.
He reveals: ‘The biggest surprise was the deep, genuine kindness of people here. The warmth and hospitality is even more pronounced than I expected. Greeks go out of their way to make you feel welcome.’
The relaxed and wholesome Greek lifestyle was the biggest bonus of moving for Daniel, who loves being ‘surrounded by natural beauty every day’ and people who ‘genuinely care about each other’.
Daniel Carrizalez (49) moved from London to Nafplio in Greece in 2010. He tells MailOnline Travel what it’s like to live there
Daniel says he loves being ‘surrounded by natural beauty’ every day in Greece
The Brit explains that ‘crime is not a significant problem in Nafplio’ and although there is ‘small crime’, ‘it generally feels very safe and people look out for each other.’
While the lifestyle is a definite improvement on the UK, Daniel admits that bureaucracy is more of a challenge in Greece. He explains: ‘The pace could be a bit slower. Things like paperwork and setting up services can take longer than in the UK, which can be frustrating. Things tend to be more streamlined in the UK.’
Driving in Greece can also be something of an ‘adventure’, says Daniel with ‘narrow and winding country roads’ offering a challenge. But he adds that ‘the views make it worth it’.
So how did the family settle on Nafplio, a coastal city about two hours’ drive from Athens, as their new home?
Daniel explains: ‘It is known for its historical significance, beautiful architecture and seaside charm. It’s a perfect mix of culture, scenery and close-knit community, plus it provides a wonderful environment for our family.’
How is housing?
According to Daniel, ‘it can be affordable’ with ‘charming traditional houses, many with balconies and courtyards’, on offer in Nafplio, and there is a ‘range of options from city apartments to country houses near olive groves’.
As for healthcare, Daniel says ‘it’s generally good’, but explains that the private sector has ‘quick service and excellent specialists at affordable rates’, while public healthcare ‘can sometimes be slower, especially in rural areas’.
Daniel says he was ‘attracted by the Mediterranean lifestyle, rich culture and beautiful landscapes’ in Greece
Daniel lives in Nafplio (pictured above), a coastal city in the Peloponnese region
Nafplio also offers a ‘vibrant’ social scene.
Daniel explains: ‘We have a close circle of friends and enjoy everything from relaxed taverna meals to local festivals. The nightlife is definitely fun – there are a variety of options from traditional music venues to modern bars with a view.’
And is the local cuisine worth writing home about?
Eating out is ‘fantastic’, adds Daniel, who loves the country’s emphasis on fresh and local ingredients. His favorite restaurant is a ‘magical’ taverna called Bounos in Nafplio’s old town with views of the sea and Bourtzi Castle.
So, would he recommend other Brits make the move?
“Absolutely,” said Daniel. ‘If you value a lifestyle, connection with nature and a sense of community, Greece is a great place to live. It is an ideal destination for those who want to embrace a balanced, fulfilling way of life.’
