11/19/2012

How to cross the road in Greek style?

To be honest Greece is very specific country not only because of people who live there...but also because of their style - e.g. crossing the street.

Classical rules say:
  • Find the safest place to cross then stop.
  • If available cross the road at a zebra crossing, traffic light crossings or at traffic islands or where there is a police officer or a traffic warden. Wait on the pavement until the traffic has completely stopped.
  • If not available, choose a place where you can see clearly along the roads in all directions, and where drivers can see you. Never cross on turns.
  • Wait until it's safe: Wait patiently and let the traffic pass.Cross when there is a safe gap and you are sure there is enough time. Don't cross if you are not sure.
  • When it's safe, walk directly across the road.
  • Keep looking & listening while crossing.
  • Never run! 
Greek rules are totally opposite! :D
If you want to cross the road within few seconds and don't want to wait hours then follow simply rules:
  • Find the best place for crossing, no matter if it's safe or not, the best for you and follow other Greeks - they always know how to cross the street without waiting!
  • Don't panic when car will start honking, they often greet each other in this style, and most of the time the honk it's not directed to you.
  • Watch out because motors are everywhere!
  • Always try to run, because it's a faster way of crossing the road on.. red light! So you won't be hit by vehicle.
  • Lights red/green are only put because of EU restrictions :P  People always cross the street no matter which light is shown!
  • There is no need to watch carefully, and wait untill the whole traffic completely stop - otherwise you'll stuck in one place for long minutes.
  • Sometimes it's impossible to see the whole road clearly along in all directions.
  • Don't expect that someone will help you (hard to find policeman e.g.) - you always count on yourself!
  • The driver is often busy with other things while driving (listening to music, smoking, talking on the phone) but I was really impressed that they always saw people crossed the street in weird places! I guess that kind of alertness is in their blood.

No comments:

Post a Comment