9. Talking With Hands
Mountza is a gesture where Greeks thrust their hands out, five fingers spread, as a show of disapproval. Drivers often use this one and if you decide to do so without cause, expect to offend. So make sure you have your palm facing you when you wave at someone. If you wave with an open palm or they’ll take it as an insult rather than a greeting. Another reason waving open-palmed could be misconstrued is because the Greek version of “come here” looks like they’re pawing the ground with the palm facing downwards.
10. Gesturing Continued
Greeks are well-known for the many movements and gesticulations they use while having a conversation. A simple “no” becomes a clicking tongue while the head is raised in a backwards motion. Their heads, faces, and bodies in general become a part of this conversational dance, and it can be a real treat for visitors to watch. To take part, however, may be a different matter and will take some getting used to learn the appropriate body language.
