What do I need to know before moving to Santorini?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Santorini, they said...
"Before moving to Santorini, expats should know that the official language is Greek, and while many locals speak English, especially in tourist areas, it is beneficial to learn some basic Greek phrases. The cost of living can be high, particularly in popular areas and during the tourist season. The island's economy is heavily reliant on tourism, which means it can be crowded in the summer but very quiet in the winter. Santorini has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. The island is known for its unique architecture, with white-washed houses and blue-domed churches, which are part of a strict building code to maintain the island's aesthetic. The healthcare system in Greece is a mix of public and private providers. While the quality of care can be good, facilities on the islands may not be as advanced as those in larger cities. Therefore, comprehensive health insurance is recommended. Public transportation on the island is limited, so many residents choose to rent or buy a car, motorbike, or ATV. However, driving can be challenging due to narrow, winding roads and heavy traffic in peak season. The cuisine in Santorini is based on the Mediterranean diet, with a lot of seafood, fresh fruits and vegetables, and local wines. The island is also known for its unique products like cherry tomatoes, fava beans, and white eggplants. Expats should also be aware of the siesta culture in Greece, where many businesses close in the afternoon for a few hours. Lastly, it's important to note that Greece has a different pace of life, often slower than what many expats may be used to, which can take some adjustment," explained one expat living in Santorini, Greece.
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Cigna Global HealthWith Cigna Global Health Options, you can create an international health insurance plan that's perfectly tailored for the needs of you and your family. We provide the reassurance of comprehensive core cover, and the flexibility of adding as many extra benefits as you want to ensure you have a plan perfectly suited to your needs.
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Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Santorini?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Santorini?
- Will I be able to find a job in Santorini?
- What is life like in Santorini?
- What do expats in Santorini appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Santorini?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Santorini accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Santorini like?
- What are healthcare services like in Santorini?
- What are medical services in Santorini like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Santorini?
- What are emergency services like in Santorini?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Santorini?
- How are local medical facilities in Santorini?
- As a foreigner living in Santorini, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What do I need to know before moving to Santorini?
If you live in Santorini, newcomers to Santorini would love to hear your answer to this question.
