How My Passion for Travel Lead to Living in Greece
“Why would you leave NYC for Greece?”
This was a common question that I was asked from Greeks who perceived me to be a young millennial, from a promising city, and leaving many opportunities behind.
If you’ve found this blog post then there is a chance that you have also found yourself quite curious about the world outside of your own.
During my late 20’s, I found myself still feeling the effects from my quarter-life crisis.
I hated my job, where I lived, my commute, and the list goes on. My 30’s were staring me in the face and begging for a transition. However, I was clueless as to what that would be. I applied for other jobs, but none were matches. I was also lost when I thought of relocating within the U.S. because I mostly traveled abroad.
To distract myself, I decided to indulge in hobbies such as cooking classes and travel of course when possible
Cuban cooking class in NYC at Sur La Table
One early spring, I decided to give my beloved Paris a rest and ventured to Santorini, Greece on a solo vacation. It was still technically off-season for the island, but I desperately needed an low-key option since I worked in NYC.
The view from my mid-town workplace
When I arrived there weren’t many crowds or shops open. It was the perfect opportunity to simply enjoy the beauty of the island with little distractions.
I stayed at the Kallisto hotel which had the most breath-taking and ethereal views.
That one trip to Santorini turned into an opportunity to teach English abroad and learn about a new culture.
Blue domed church in Santorini
My first trip to Perissa Beach
A view from the caldera in Santorini
Me on a photoshoot in Oia
It’s very easy to speak English and get by in Santorini as an expat because it is a highly touristic location. There are many reasons to live in Greece and many options for English speakers to get jobs in the tourism industry during the busy months from May-October. Furthermore, there is a demand on the island for Native English expats to teach ESL to Greeks so that they can feel more confident with their Business level English skills. Since the cost of living in Santorini can get expensive, many expats live in Athens and Crete for more options. Just know that there are pros and cons of living in Greece like anywhere else but it’s definitely worth exploring.
The move to Greece gave me the perfect opportunity to test the waters as an expat and digital nomad who acquires income from online through teaching as well.
After commuting within NYC for a decade I was VERY intrigued by what a nomadic life could offer.
So far, I enjoy it and am thankful for the many options that I have as a native English speaker.
Greece is GORGEOUS. If you are looking to relocate then it’s best to keep your mind open. Every place has a reputation but there are also a lot of interesting discoveries that you may not uncover until you go abroad long-term.
I believe in intensive research, savings, and throwing caution to the wind.
If you’re an expat, where did you decide to stay long-term?
