Greece is undoubtedly a dream vacation destination for foreigners. But is it also a paradise to live in if you are not local?
The British-Venezuelan Daniel Carrizalez has the answer: because he left London in the United Kingdom and settled in Nafplio, in the Peloponnese region, with his family in 2010.
Fourteen years later, any regrets?
Not because of how it sounds. 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 tells MailOnline Travel: ‘We were attracted to the Mediterranean lifestyle, the rich culture and the beautiful landscapes. Greece offered a slower, more satisfying pace of life and the opportunity to raise our family surrounded by history, nature and strong community values.’
Daniel says he had never experienced such an amazing “sense of community” before moving to Greece.
He reveals: ‘The biggest surprise has been the deep and genuine friendship of the people here. The warmth and hospitality are even more pronounced than I expected. Greeks go out of their way to make you feel welcome.
The relaxed and healthy Greek lifestyle has been the biggest advantage of moving for Daniel, who loves “being surrounded by natural beauty every day” and people who “truly care about each other.”
Daniel Carrizalez, 49, moved to Nafplio in Greece from London 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 Briton explains that “crime is not a major problem in Nafplio” and, although there are “small crimes”, “in general it feels very safe and people take care of each other.”
While lifestyle is a clear improvement in the UK, Daniel admits that bureaucracy is a bigger challenge in Greece. He explains: ‘The pace may be a little 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.’
Plus, driving in Greece can be something of an “adventure,” says Daniel, where “narrow, winding country roads” present a challenge. But he adds that “the views make it worth it.”
So how did the family end up in Nafplio, a coastal city about two hours’ drive from Athens, as their new home?
Daniel explains: ‘It is known for its historical importance, beautiful architecture and coastal charm. “It is a perfect combination of culture, landscape and close-knit community, and it offers a wonderful environment for our family.”
What is the housing like?
According to Daniel, it “can be affordable” with “lovely traditional houses, many with balconies and patios”, 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 is “generally good,” but explains that the private sector has “fast service and excellent specialists at affordable prices,” while public healthcare “can sometimes be slower, especially in rural areas.”
Daniel says he was “drawn to the Mediterranean lifestyle, rich culture and beautiful landscapes” of Greece.
Daniel lives in Nafplio (pictured above), a coastal city in the Peloponnese region.
Nafplio also offers a “lively” social scene.
Daniel explains: ‘We have a close circle of friends and enjoy everything from relaxed pub dinners to local festivals. The nightlife is definitely fun – there’s a variety of options, from traditional music venues to modern bars with views.’
And is local cuisine worth highlighting?
Eating out is “fantastic,” adds Daniel, who loves the country’s emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. His favorite restaurant is a “magical” tavern called Bounos.Psarosavouras in the old town of Nafplio with views of the sea and Bourtzi Castle.
So would I recommend other Brits make the move?
“Absolutely,” Daniel says. ‘If you value lifestyle, connection to nature and a sense of community, Greece is a wonderful place to live. It is an ideal destination for those looking to adopt a balanced and satisfying way of life.’