I was reading about Greek recipes on the SBS website and found a really interesting blog about Greek food. Greece's culinary tradition dates back hundreds of years and has evolved over time to absorb many diverse influences. Many well known Greek dishes are in fact part of the larger tradition of the food of the Ottoman Empire, with classic dishes such as Moussaka, Borek and Tzatziki have Arabic, Persian and Turkish Roots. From some of the best lamb dishes on earth to fresh seafood, vegetables, beans, pulses and, of course, good olive oil, Greek food is simple, colourful and incredibly nutritious. Like other Mediterranean cuisines, Greek food has a reputation for being heart healthy with its heavy use of olive oil, fish, lean meats, vegetables, herbs and grain, although some dishes can be quite rich, like the classic moussaka – a hearty dish made of layers of lamb and eggplant, smothered in béchamel sauce and cheese.

Mezes (or mezze) refers to small dishes, which frequently help make up a main meal, served with salads, dips and pita bread. Besides the ever-present olive oil, other widely used ingredients and flavourings include eggplant, tomatoes, potato, okra, lemon, cheese, herbs and honey. Greece's climate favours the breeding of sheep, making beef dishes less common in traditional fare. Many dishes are wrapped in filo pastry - including Greek classics such as spanakopita (spinach and feta) and the honey-drenched, nut filled dessert baklava. As for beverages, strong Greek coffee, retsina (white wine with pine resin added) and the 80-percent-proof anise flavoured ouzo are all ever popular.

In Greek culture, food is so much more than sustenance – it’s about culture, comfort, family and life itself. “If you grow up in Greece, you grow up with your mother chasing you around the house with a spoon,” jokes Greek-Australian chef Peter Conistis.

When Greeks taste something delicious, they have a lovely phrase "Γεια στα χέρια σας" which translates as "I kiss your hands", celebrating the skill of the cook.

Reference from www.sbs.com.au

Anyone can travel and see places, hop on a plane and you can go pretty much anywhere and be on the other side of the world in a matter of hours. But to really get the most out of any trip, a traveller needs to engage with people. People are the real way to open your eyes to what is going on around you, why something is, or just to understand more about a place.  You may be lucky to find someone that speaks your language, but in many countries, especially when a little off the beaten track, the chances of finding that person are slim.

It makes sense then, if you want to get more out of a country that you visit, that you learn the language.  For so long, many people have just expected people to speak English primarily, but for a real travel experience, a person who wants to experience that little bit more from where they are visiting, speaking the native language is a must.  Speaking Japanese on a business trip to Japan shows respect and courtesy, two things that mean a lot in Japanese culture. This would transform your business trip to Japan and you will stand a greater chance of success if you speak their language.

Exploring the vineyards of France or Italy can become so much more rewarding when you speak even a little French or Italian. True, the guides and the wine makers may speak a little broken English and some will speak very good English, but this is their second or maybe third language and the little nuances that bring the real colour of the vineyards or other places get lost in translation. By speaking the language, you also get that little bit extra, and the very fact you have chosen to learn the language brings a smile to the face of a local and shows respect.

Learning the language becomes part of the journey, and leading up to the moment you disembark at that airport in Thailand or Germany you have already experienced part of the country through its language. Learning the language will leave you feeling confident, knowing that you will be able to ask for directions or have a conversation with a local while waiting for a bus perhaps, and as eager as you are to explore or get to your business meeting you are just as eager to put your new language to the test.

Learning a language allows you to become part of the country you are visiting and because you blend in a little better, the country and its people will open up to you, showing you more than you expect.  With a language to use, your horizon has been broadened and all it takes to receive this benefit is a little time invested in language.