From Dreaming to Doing | Issue 01: Syros, Greece
Explore Good Life Greece, Odyspace coworking and the appeal of authentic island living.
Imagine waking up to the sound of the sea, enjoying your morning coffee overlooking a picturesque Greek harbour, and starting your working day surrounded by sunshine and beautiful scenery.
Living on a Greek island is something many of us dream about, yet we tell ourselves that living in Greece is something other people do. If you want to live in Greece this really is something you can do!
Welcome to From Dreaming to Doing, a new HCI Group Global blog series exploring inspiring destinations and the practical steps to making a different lifestyle possible.
Our first stop? The beautiful Greek island of Syros.
Why Syros? A Different Kind of Greek Island
While Santorini and Mykonos attract the crowds, Syros offers something a little different: authentic Greek island living with a thriving year-round community.
Its elegant capital, Ermoupoli, is filled with colourful neoclassical buildings, charming streets, waterfront cafés and a vibrant local culture including the beautiful Apollon Theatre..
Unlike some seasonal destinations, Syros has shops, schools, restaurants and businesses operating throughout the year, making it an attractive option for those considering a longer stay or permanent move.
One particularly important advantage is healthcare. Syros is home to the General Hospital of Syros, the largest healthcare provider in the Cyclades. Having access to established medical facilities is reassuring, particularly when planning a move abroad, where practical considerations such as healthcare access and suitable international medical insurance are all part of making island life a reality.
Add beautiful beaches, delicious Mediterranean food, a welcoming community and a more relaxed pace of life, and it’s easy to see why Syros could be so much more than just a holiday destination.
Where to work: Odyspace Coworking
Working from a beach might sound idyllic, but a reliable, professional workspace makes remote working much easier.
Odyspace Coworking on Syros offers digital nomads, freelancers and entrepreneurs a dedicated place to work.
Coworking environments also create opportunities to meet like-minded people, exchange ideas and build connections, all very valuable when you’re new to an island.
It’s a great option to explore if you want to combine productivity with the benefits of Greek island living.
Try Island Life: Good Life Greece
Good Life Greece is worth exploring for anyone who wants to trial island living before making a longer-term commitment. Good Life has various villas to rent in Poseidonia, a peaceful and sheltered area of Syros near some beautiful beaches and delicious tavernas. Each villa comes equipped with it’s own private bathroom and kitchen making it an ideal base on the island.
The owners offer special discounted rates for people staying long-term and / or out of season. Check out their Instagram for more information.
Visas and residency
Greece offers several routes, including a Digital Nomad Visa for eligible non-EU professionals working remotely for employers or clients outside Greece. Other residency options may be available for retirees, financially independent individuals and those planning to work or settle in the country.
Requirements vary depending on your circumstances and may include proof of income, accommodation and suitable health insurance.
With the right planning, the dream of living on a Greek island could be closer than you think.
For the latest requirements, visit the UK Government’s Living in Greece guide or consult the Greek authorities before making your move.
Healthcare
HCI Group Global offers international private medical insurance for expats, helping individuals and families explore healthcare cover suited to their circumstances when living and working abroad.
Having appropriate medical insurance in place can provide valuable peace of mind, allowing you to focus on enjoying your new lifestyle.
A little forward planning can make the transition to living abroad much smoother.
Get an instant quote for private medical insurance in Greece.
Could Greece be your next chapter?
Perhaps you’ve always imagined spending a few months each year somewhere warmer. Maybe you’re considering relocating permanently, or simply want to experience a different way of living and working.
Whatever your dream, you don’t necessarily have to make a dramatic change overnight.
Start by exploring destinations like Syros. Experience island life through Good Life Greece, discover remote working at Odyspace and research the practicalities of living abroad.
Small steps can turn an idea into a plan and a plan into reality.
Because sometimes the biggest change begins with one simple question: What if I actually did it?