Welcome to the birthplace of Zeus, home of the Minoan civilization, and the crossroads of the three continents of the Old World: Africa, Europe, and Asia Minor…
The cradle of Western civilization had a rough couple of decades. After reaching a national debt of about 341.1 billion euros, it seems as though Greece is back on its feet.
If your interest is archaeology, lazing on the beach, scuba diving, and indulging in the original Mediterranean diet, then Greece may be for you. This is truly a history buff’s paradise, with more archaeological museums than any other country in the world.
And with the longest coastline in the Mediterranean Basin and a unique geography full of islands and peninsulas, Greece’s reputation as a bona fide beach destination is well-founded.
Apart from the incredible history and the beaches, though, what makes Greece an overseas haven for the estimated 1.2+ million foreign nationals—more than 10% of the total population—that live here?
The Mediterranean climate is a big factor, with its gentle winters—no frost or snow-shoveling here—and hot summers. And here you’re never far from the glistening and super clear water that surrounds the country… It’s not just about beaches, though. Greece offers mountains, the record-breaking Samariá gorge (the longest in Europe), olive groves, vineyards, and an untouched inland wilderness, as well as endless ancient and wonderfully scenic villages.
Greece is bordered to the east by the Aegean Sea, to the south by the Mediterranean Sea, and to the west by the Ionian Sea. Only to the north and northeast does Greece have land borders.
In Greece you’ll find some of the friendliest people, with a culture based on the highest respect for families, and especially elders. Plus, the cost of living is significantly less than in many of its European counterparts.
The other big plus here is that Greece hosts the most affordable Golden Visa in Europe. To qualify you must purchase one or several properties totaling at least 250,000 euros. (The country’s rival markets of Spain and Portugal have thresholds of 500,000 euros.) You don’t even have to visit the country after making your purchase; you’re only needed in-country when renewing it. You might not be able to become employed in Greece with this visa, but if you’re interested, you can start your own business. Many opt for businesses like restaurants and small shops.
It doesn’t matter where you go or how small the village is in Greece—you’re almost guaranteed to find a handful of expats living there. They came to the island as tourists, fell in love (either with the place or with a person), and extended their trip indefinitely. It’s a common story, and it’s not hard to understand why. The cost of living is low, the scenery is stunning, and the climate is great. Greece offers the opportunity for an all-around easy lifestyle, and it attracts a lot of expats.