Check out the video below for the quick version of the tips:
I remember when I was organising everything to move abroad and it was a daunting task. There were so many questions I had in mind, which is why I have listed down a few tips to help make things easier for you.
1. Job hunting
It can be quite stressful thinking about moving abroad and not knowing if you’re going to get a job right away or not. I would advise you to look at different websites such as LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor and Kariera.gr for jobs in Athens. You can also join groups on Facebook and search for jobs on this platform too.
The most common jobs you can find as an expat are call centre jobs, teaching jobs, translating jobs, PR and content writing jobs, marketing jobs, maritime jobs, sales jobs, tour guide jobs, babysitting jobs and seasonal tourism jobs.
It’s best to do job hunting before you actually move to Greece, so that you can see which jobs are available and even apply.
2. Bills
When it comes to paying for bills in Greece, the most expensive bill you have to look out for is the electricity bill. This is because there are added fees and taxes that you have to comply with the Greek government; regardless of how much electricity you use.
If you’re planning on living in a block of flats, you will also have to pay for the maintenance bill which is for the elevator usage and electricity in the lobby of the apartments. Every tenant has to pay for this.
The cheapest bills are the water and internet bills. But this is all down to the amount of water you will use and the internet company you will sign up with.
3. Apartment hunting
Rent is slowly increasing in Athens and the prices can also vary depending on which area you stay in.
The best way to look for apartments is to browse through the websites spitogato.gr and xe.gr. You can also join Facebook groups and look on Facebook Marketplace, where landlords are always advertising rooms or properties to rent.
In Athens, it’s easy to flat share with someone and most expat groups on Facebook are always looking for roommates. However, it can also be quite affordable to live alone or with your partner. It’s just down to the area that you choose to live in.
Check out this video for areas to avoid in Athens, Greece.
4. Packing
When I packed for my big move I only took the necessities with me and donated the rest to charity. In Athens, there’s many high street stores and small businesses that sell the basics and affordable clothes.
There are also big companies such as Jumbo and Hondos Center that sell cheap products such as cooking equipment, utensils, toiletries and even makeup.
You can also find affordable online stores that deliver to Athens and for a small delivery fee.
Joyous Jet-setter 