Greece: Cheek Kiss — Common Between Acquaintances.
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Cheek Kiss — Common Between Acquaintances. A handshake is normal for first meetings, but cheek kissing (usually once on each cheek) is standard between friends and family, and happens quickly once you are acquainted.
Greece: Cheek Kiss — Common Between Acquaintances. A handshake is normal for first meetings, but cheek kissing (usually once on each cheek) is standard between friends and family, and happens quickly once you are acquainted.
In Greece, cheek kissing (or an air-kiss) between acquaintances is normal and expected in social settings, alongside or instead of a handshake.
A light handshake or friendly nod is a safe default almost anywhere in the world. Let the other person initiate anything closer, like a hug or cheek kiss — following their lead avoids any awkwardness.
This reflects the general, most common pattern for a destination, not a fixed rule — greeting style varies by region, generation, and setting, and it's always fine to follow the other person's lead or offer a simple handshake if you're unsure.