According to an article in The Economist about the standards of living and populations with the longest lifespans, people not only live to old age in rich countries like Switzerland and Singapore, but also in relatively poorer nations like Italy, Spain, and Greece.

As a Greek lover, I believe that life’s pace is slow and full of beauty. While taking in the scenery, they eat sea food and delicious fruit. On some islands, the major event is the picking of the olives in December. Life stretches thick and thin, and it is almost uneventful. In other words, stressful events do not emerge. I always admire this quality in Southerners: to focus only on the blissful side of life, surrounded by their extended families. Indeed, I agree that sun, olive oil, social life, delicious food, the views, and salty air all contribute to a better and longer life.

As a tourist, I travel to Greece twice a year. My observations are as follows: The Greeks are very light-hearted and happy, and they do not take themselves or others too seriously. Perhaps life in Athens is unique and different, given its status as a metropolis with more than 3 million inhabitants, but on the islands, time appears to have paused amidst the enchanting scenery.
The Greek cuisine is something that I am in love with. Greek cuisine is not only healthier than Italian cuisine, but it is also delicious.
My perception may be influenced by a tourist’s rose-tinted glasses, but I like the Greeks’ tranquilly. Nobody seemed to be stressed.

What do you think?

Photo by the author.