Summer fashion has always been about bold statements and carefree expression, but this season’s print landscape is particularly captivating. From Mediterranean-inspired motifs to mesmerising abstracts, the patterns dominating wardrobes this summer tell stories of wanderlust, cultural appreciation, and artistic freedom.

Let’s address the elephant in the room – or should we say, the rose in the garden. We’re officially bored of florals for summer. Yes, it’s a fashion writer trope as predictable as Miranda Priestly’s cerulean speech, but no less true for being overused. Every summer brings the inevitable floral infiltration, and frankly, we’ve reached peak petal fatigue.

Consider this your cheat sheet to looking effortlessly chic without a single bloom in sight – because let’s face it, we could all use a little more ‘effortless’ in our lives, even if it takes considerable effort to achieve.

Living La Dolce Vita

Ideal for sun drenched sophistication with a playful twist…

The Italian coast has captured fashion’s imagination this summer, with Mediterranean-inspired prints offering a sophisticated alternative to traditional florals. Because apparently, we’ve reached peak rose petal saturation and it’s time to branch out – or should we say, lemon out? Lemon motifs lead the charge, adorning everything from flowing midi dresses to structured blazers, evoking lazy afternoons on the Amalfi Coast with an Aperol Spritz in hand (Instagram post not included, but highly recommended).

This trend extends beyond citrus to embrace the full Italian experience. Olive branch prints, ceramic tile patterns reminiscent of hand-painted pottery, and even playful spaghetti motifs on adjustable-strap dresses bring a sense of European summer romance to everyday wear. Yes, you read that right – spaghetti prints on spaghetti straps.

Fashion’s love affair with meta-references has reached delicious new heights. Just remember: when wearing spaghetti print dresses, any actual spaghetti spillage becomes part of the design aesthetic. We’re calling it ‘accidental couture.’ The key is choosing pieces that capture the effortless elegance of Italian coastal living while maintaining modern sophistication.

Abstract Expressionism

Ideal for making an artistic statement without saying a word…

Perhaps the most striking trend this season, abstract prints are making fashion feel like wearable art. These dreamy, swirling patterns feature energetic colour combinations that seem to move across the fabric, creating pieces that are genuinely transfixing. Perfect for those days when you want to look artistic and mysterious – or when you need people to think you understand modern art galleries (we won’t tell if you don’t).

The palette ranges from sunset gradients in coral and gold to ocean-inspired blues and greens, often within the same garment. These prints work particularly well on flowing silhouettes where the pattern can truly come alive with movement. Think silk scarves that double as statement pieces, or flowing palazzo trousers that turn heads with every step.

Dotty About Polka

Ideal for timeless elegance that never goes out of style…

Speaking of timeless patterns, polka dots deserve their own standing ovation for sheer staying power. These perfectly round spots have been making fashion statements since the 1920s and show no signs of slowing down. Like animal prints, polka dots are beautifully transitional – equally at home on a summer sundress or an autumn blazer.

This season sees polka dots getting creative with scale and spacing. Micro dots create subtle texture on silk blouses, while oversized spots make bold statements on dresses. The key is choosing the right dot size for your frame and occasion – because nothing says “effortlessly chic” like dots that actually require considerable effort to get right.

African Heritage Celebration

Ideal for wearing history and supporting cultural appreciation…

The global fashion conversation has rightfully expanded to celebrate the incredible diversity of African textile traditions, with prints from across the continent gaining well-deserved mainstream recognition. This represents part of a broader cultural appreciation that’s reshaping fashion’s landscape.

While the term ‘African prints’ is used for convenience, it’s important to recognise the vast diversity within this category. From West African wax prints with their bold geometric patterns to East African kanga textiles with their meaningful messages, each tradition brings unique artistry and cultural significance. The common threads include vibrant colours, symbolic motifs, and exceptional craftsmanship that has influenced designers worldwide.

The appeal of African prints extends far beyond their beautiful designs – each carry profound symbolism reflecting the traditions, cultures, and stories of entire communities. Each African print tells a story, whether tied to spiritual beliefs, historical events, or personal identity tells a story, whether tied to spiritual beliefs, historical events, or personal identity. Take Ankara prints, for instance, which captivate with their vibrant colours and intricate geometric patterns. These designs aren’t just visually stunning on skirts, dresses, and headscarves; they’re woven with meanings of fertility, prosperity, and beauty.

Under The Sea

Ideal for adding whimsy to your wardrobe with oceanic charm…

Aquatic life has surfaced as a major print trend, with crustaceans, shells, and fish swimming across summer wardrobes. This oceanic obsession gained momentum with viral pieces like the iconic Never Fully Dressed lobster-print dress and has evolved into a full underwater fantasy. Finally, a way to wear your love of seafood without actually having to crack shells at dinner – though we can’t guarantee you won’t get hungry looking at your outfit.

Sardine prints, delicate shell motifs, and even playful crab designs are appearing on everything from swimwear to evening wear. The trend perfectly captures the season’s coastal energy while offering a fresh alternative to traditional nautical stripes. It’s whimsical without being childish, and works beautifully in both bright, tropical colourways and more sophisticated monochromatic schemes.

Read:Sunny Day Staples: Finding Your Perfect Swimsuit Cover-Up

Animal Kingdom Redux

Ideal for bringing out your wild side this and every season…

Animal prints prove thier staying power this summer with fresh interpretations of this eternal classic. While leopard and zebra remain wardrobe staples, designers are exploring new territories with unexpected creatures and innovative coluor palettes. It’s like Noah’s Ark, but make it fashion – and significantly more stylish than biblical outerwear.

The beauty of animal prints lies in their versatility – they transition seamlessly from season to season and can be dressed up or down with ease. This summer’s iterations feature softer, more organic interpretations of classic patterns, often in unexpected colours like sage green leopard spots or rust-coloured tiger stripes.

The Bottom Line

This season’s print trends reflect our collective desire for joy, cultural connection, and artistic expression. Whether you’re drawn to the sophistication of Mediterranean motifs, the boldness of abstract art, or the timeless appeal of animal patterns, there’s a print story waiting to become part of your summer wardrobe.

The key to wearing prints confidently is choosing patterns that resonate with your personal style and make you feel authentically yourself. After all, the best fashion trend is the one that brings a smile to your face every time you wear it – and if it happens to make you look like a walking work of art or a glamorous sea creature, that’s just a bonus.

Let’s be honest—the traditional stag do is having a bit of an identity crisis, and, frankly, it’s about time. With most blokes now tying the knot in their late thirties (the national average is around 38), there’s been a noticeable shift away from the juvenile antics that once defined these celebrations. We’ve moved past the idea that as soon as the booze comes out, the shape of the day inevitably goes south.

We all know someone who’s got war stories about paintballing in a forest dressed as a hotdog, pedalling around Amsterdam on a beer bike whilst annoying the locals, or worse still, parading around Bath in a miniskirt.

And then there are the stags abroad that fuel regular news headlines, like the story of eight British men arrested on a stag do in Mallorca after a brawl with beach club staff who had repeatedly asked them to stop throwing beer cans and rubbish into the sea. It’s exactly this kind of behaviour that’s giving British tourists a bad name and making locals genuinely resentful of stag groups.

Instead of cringing through another weekend of organised fun or potential arrest, modern grooms and their mates are demanding something different; celebrations that people might actually enjoy attending.

Why The Old Ways Aren’t Working

Here’s the thing that might surprise you: most men don’t actually enjoy the chaos. Research published in the journal Deviant Behaviour found that the majority of participants weren’t keen on the “extreme shaming, humiliation and deviance” that’s become the norm. The study revealed countless stories of blokes feeling pressured into activities they absolutely didn’t want to do; strip clubs they had no interest in visiting, fancy dress that left them mortified in front of locals, or ending up lost, robbed, or sleeping rough in shop doorways.

As The Independent puts it, stag dos are finally changing, and thank goodness for that. We’re moving past the outdated idea that a proper send-off requires public embarrassment or genuinely dangerous behaviour. The question is: what should replace it?

The New Rules: Keep It Real & Realistic

One Night Is Plenty

First things first; we all have different situations these days. Some of your group might be single with cash to splash, whilst others are juggling mortgages, kids, and the reality that a weekend in Vegas just isn’t happening. Since the groom wants everyone there, it makes sense to plan something that doesn’t require anyone to remortgage their house or use up all their annual leave.

A single day or night keeps things manageable for everyone, which is especially important when you’re dealing with proper adult hangovers that seem to last for days rather than hours. Plus, let’s face it, most of us don’t have the stamina we had at 25.

Think About Getting There (& Back)

Choose somewhere people can actually reach without selling a kidney for train fare. With public transport costs these days, asking everyone to trek to some remote location is a bit much, frankly. And think about the journey home, especially for day events where people need to get back to their families in one piece.

If you’re planning an overnight stay, your stag do accommodation needs to be easy for everyone to get to. Central locations near train stations work well, or somewhere with decent parking if people are driving. Nobody wants to spend half their Saturday navigating complicated transport links just to get to the starting point.

What Actually Works

A Proper Meal & Some Drinks

Sometimes the best celebrations are the simplest ones. There’s something brilliant about sitting down for a good meal with your closest mates; proper conversation, decent food, and the chance to actually catch up rather than shouting over club music. Book a private dining room somewhere nice where you can hear each other talk, and don’t forget to invite the older members of the wedding party who might feel a bit left out of more energetic activities.

The beauty of this approach? Those who want to carry on drinking can head to the pub afterwards, whilst those who need to get home can bow out gracefully after the meal.

Read: Guinness, Grouse & Ganache: 11 Of London’s Best Gastropubs

A Pub Crawl With A Plan

If you’re dead set on a traditional pub crawl, at least give it some structure. Pick a route with a clear end point so you’re not wandering aimlessly until someone inevitably goes missing or spends their mortgage payment on rounds. Maybe choose pubs with a bit of history or cracking beer selections, as these give people something to talk about other than how hammered they’re getting.

And here’s a crucial bit: plan a proper food stop midway through. Whether it’s the honoured tradition of a late-night kebab, fish and chips or something a bit more substantial, soaking up the alcohol is essential if you want everyone to make it to the end in one piece. Nothing kills a celebration faster than having to carry someone home or explain to their other half why they’re face-down in a hedge.

Day Events That Don’t Require Recovery Time

Think festivals, gigs, or matches. You know, the things that give you plenty to talk about and shared experiences without needing to maintain party energy until 3am. We’re blessed in England with an incredible festival, music, and sports scene, so take advantage of it. 

Or consider a proper country walk or hike ending at a decent pub for lunch; fresh air, good conversation, and a well-earned meal that everyone can appreciate.  Day events often work out cheaper too, and there’s less chance of anyone ending up in A&E or a police cell.

An Experience Day With Actual Skills

Consider something everyone can learn from, whether it’s a whisky or wine tasting, brewery tour, or cooking class. These activities give you something to focus on beyond just drinking, create natural conversation starters, and often include food to help pace the alcohol consumption. Plus, people might actually pick up a skill they can use later.

The key difference here is that these are actually bonding activities. Think about it: your typical stag do experiences like go-karting mean everyone’s alone in their car, not talking or bonding with anyone. Paintballing has everyone hiding from each other in fear of getting shot at – hardly conducive to meaningful conversation. The key is to focus on just one event rather than cramming it into a tiny part of a whole day, so give it the time and attention it deserves.

Consider A ‘Sten’ Do

If the bride and groom share a lot of mates, why not combine forces? As reported by The Independent “there has been a rise in joint stag and hen dos, know as a sten do, with one in 10 (11%) opting for it”

A joint stag and hen celebration – or ‘sten do’ – can actually be brilliant. It cuts down on planning stress, reduces costs, and creates a more relaxed atmosphere where everyone knows at least some of the other guests. Plus, it prevents any competition between the stag and hen organisers about who’s having the better time.

The real bonus? Having everyone bond together beforehand means there’ll be much better interactions on the wedding day itself. Instead of two separate groups who barely know each other, you’ll have a mixed crowd who’ve already shared some laughs and broken the ice.

What To Swerve

Forcing Everyone to Join In

Don’t be that organiser who insists everyone has to do the same activity. Half the popular stag activities – go-karting, quad biking, clay pigeon shooting, paintballing – either don’t mix with alcohol or are frankly miserable when you’re trying to nurse a hangover. Nobody wants to spend their Saturday trudging through a muddy field in Nottinghamshire getting shot at with paint whilst feeling rough as a badger’s arse.

Fancy Dress & Public Humiliation

Skip the matching t-shirts with embarrassing slogans or forcing the groom into a ridiculous costume for ‘banter.’ Walking around town centres dressed as superheroes or in drag might seem hilarious after a few pints, but it’s mostly just annoying for everyone else trying to get on with their day. Plus, the photos will haunt social media forever.

Strip Clubs & Lapdancing

This one’s becoming increasingly outdated, and for good reason. Many grooms genuinely aren’t interested, and it can make people deeply uncomfortable. There are plenty of ways to celebrate without making half the group feel awkward about what they’re supposed to be enjoying.

The Bottom Line 

At the end of the day, the best stag dos are the ones where everyone’s comfortable and nobody feels like they’re being put through some sort of endurance test. That means thinking about your group’s actual circumstances, like their their budgets, their interests, whether they’ve got kids to get back to, rather than defaulting to tired ideas about what a ‘proper’ stag do should look like.

The goal isn’t to create content for your Instagram or prove how wild you can be. It’s about celebrating a mate’s big life change with the people who matter to him. And here’s a revolutionary thought: sometimes the celebrations people remember most fondly are the ones where they actually enjoyed themselves.

The pressure to conform to extreme stag do culture often ruins what should be a genuinely good time. Choose activities that reflect what your group actually wants to do, and you’re far more likely to create something the groom will thank you for – rather than spend years trying to live down.

Let’s be honest – who hasn’t daydreamed about escaping Britain’s unpredictable weather for a life of Mediterranean sunshine? Greek islands are increasingly becoming the go-to choice for Brits looking to make this dream a reality, and it’s not hard to see why. They offer something special for year-round living: mild winters, over 300 days of sunshine annually, and living costs that won’t break the bank.

You’ll be pleased to hear that in the 2023 Expat Insider survey by InterNations, Greece was recognised as a country where settling and finding friends among locals is easy, which makes the transition to island life much smoother for newcomers. Part of this is down to its numerous visa options.

In 2021, Greece joined the growing number of countries embracing remote work by launching its Digital Nomad Visa, and since then, remote workers and their families have been flocking to the islands. The visa allows non-EU/EEA remote workers to live in Greece for up to 12 months while working for companies or clients outside the country, requiring proof of stable remote income of at least €3,500 per month after taxes.

But here’s the thing – not all Greek islands are suitable for permanent living. Many of the smaller, more touristy spots essentially shut down during the off-season, with restaurants closing, ferry services reduced, and even basic amenities becoming scarce from November through March.

That’s exactly why we’ve been selective about our recommendations. The four islands we’ve chosen are specifically picked because they maintain active, functioning communities year-round. You won’t find yourself stranded with nowhere to grab groceries or get a decent meal in January. These islands have substantial local populations, not just seasonal tourism, which means shops stay open, public transport continues running, and you’ll have neighbours who actually live there full-time.

Crete: The Island That Has Everything

Crete is Greece’s largest island and honestly, it’s got the lot. Whether you want bustling city life or peaceful countryside, this island delivers. Heraklion is becoming a proper tech hub with a growing startup scene, boasting a well-educated workforce and supportive ecosystem for entrepreneurs.

The city’s robust infrastructure makes it perfect for technology companies, while Chania, with its UNESCO-listed Venetian harbour, attracts a sophisticated international crowd. If you’re after peace and quiet, the largely undeveloped south coast offers countless options for tranquil living.

Ideal for the cosmopolitan adventurer: Those who want options. City amenities when you need them, unspoiled countryside when you don’t. This island suits professionals, families, and retirees who appreciate diversity in their living environment and want access to sophisticated cultural attractions while maintaining the option to retreat to secluded beaches or mountain villages.

What’s it like living there? Crete enjoys one of Europe’s best climates – over 300 days of sunshine and winters that rarely drop below 10°C, making it genuinely suitable for year-round residence. The island’s diverse geography means you can find everything from vibrant beach communities to peaceful mountain villages, each offering its own unique character and lifestyle.

The internet infrastructure is excellent throughout most areas, with high-speed broadband suitable for remote work now standard. There’s even a co-working space called Workhub right in the heart of Heraklion, perfectly positioned near beaches, pharmacies, supermarkets, and transport networks for that classic Greek island co-working experience.

Where you’ll live: Housing options range from traditional stone villas with private pools in areas like Chania and Rethymno (€1,000-€3,000 monthly) to modern town center apartments (€400-€800 monthly) and budget-friendly rural properties from €300 monthly. Most properties come fully furnished with reliable WiFi, air conditioning, and modern amenities, with established expat communities creating a robust long-term rental market designed for permanent residents rather than tourists.

Read: 48 Hours In The Crete Capital, Heraklion

Corfu: Green, Gorgeous, and Sophisticated

Corfu is different from the typical Greek island – it’s lush and green thanks to more rainfall, with a unique blend of British, French, and Venetian influences. The UNESCO-listed Old Town is absolutely stunning, and there’s a reason Brits have been drawn here since the British Protectorate period from 1815 to 1864. This historical connection continues today, creating a welcoming environment for UK residents.

The island has embraced digital nomads in innovative ways. A local startup has created an AI-powered platform that matches remote workers with suitable long-term rentals based on their work requirements and lifestyle preferences. The main coworking space in Corfu Town features a rooftop solar farm that powers its high-speed internet infrastructure, while the municipality offers a “Digital Nomad Welcome Package” including a free 30-day public transportation pass and discounts on local attractions.

Ideal for the cultured traditionalist: Culture lovers and anyone missing British greenery. Corfu appeals to those who appreciate European sophistication mixed with Greek warmth, perfect for history enthusiasts and anyone seeking a more temperate climate with lush, green surroundings. The island suits those who value architectural beauty and a slower, more refined pace of life.

What’s it like living there? Corfu’s unique position in the Ionian Sea gives it a distinctly different character from Aegean islands, with lush green landscapes that remain verdant even in summer. More temperate than other Greek islands, this makes it particularly appealing to those missing the greenery of Britain. The compact size means you’re never far from both mountains and sea, while the rich history is evident everywhere, from the Old Town’s arcaded Liston to the magnificent palaces of Achilleion.

The local culture seamlessly blends Greek traditions with Italian and British influences, creating a unique cosmopolitan atmosphere that feels both familiar and exotic to British residents.

Where you’ll live: Accommodation ranges from traditional villas in olive groves (€250-€600 monthly) to historic properties within Corfu Town’s converted Venetian mansions (from €500 monthly) and seafront apartments in areas like Glyfa and Almyrida (€400-€1,200 monthly). The island’s compact geography means even rural properties are rarely more than 30 minutes from main amenities, with many rentals featuring traditional Ionian architecture, private terraces, gardens, and pools.

Rhodes: Medieval Magic Meets Modern Life

Rhodes perfectly balances historical significance with modern convenience, offering perhaps the best combination of living surrounded by tangible history while enjoying contemporary amenities. The island’s strategic position in the Dodecanese has made it a crossroads of civilizations for millennia, creating a rich tapestry of cultural influences that’s both cosmopolitan and traditional, timeless yet thoroughly modern.

The medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, provides a stunning backdrop for daily life that never gets old. Meanwhile, the modern areas offer all necessary amenities, excellent infrastructure for digital nomads to thrive, and a growing community of remote workers drawn by reliable internet and dedicated coworking spaces.

Ideal for the active history enthusiast: Those who want to live surrounded by tangible history while enjoying modern conveniences. Rhodes suits active individuals who appreciate both cultural exploration and outdoor activities, from beach sports to hiking in pine-forested mountains. The island particularly appeals to digital nomads, young professionals, and anyone seeking a vibrant social scene within a historically significant setting.

Read: The Best Restaurants In Rhodes, Greece

What’s it like living there? Rhodes enjoys over 300 days of sunshine annually and benefits from the meltemi winds in summer, which provide natural air conditioning during the hottest months. The island’s diverse landscape includes everything from ancient ruins and pristine beaches to pine-forested mountains, offering endless opportunities for exploration and outdoor activities.

The tourism industry provides a robust local economy that supports year-round residents, while significant investment in digital infrastructure has made it increasingly attractive to remote workers and digital entrepreneurs. The well-developed tourism infrastructure translates into high-quality services and reliable utilities year-round.

Where you’ll live: Accommodation ranges from traditional villas in olive groves (€250-€600 monthly) to historic properties within Corfu Town’s converted Venetian mansions (from €500 monthly) and seafront apartments in areas like Glyfa and Almyrida (€400-€1,200 monthly). The island’s compact geography means even rural properties are rarely more than 30 minutes from main amenities, with many rentals featuring traditional Ionian architecture, private terraces, gardens, and pools.

Lesvos: Real Greece Without the Crowds

Lesvos, also known as Lesbos, is where you’ll find authentic Greek island living without the tourist hordes. As Greece’s third-largest island, there’s plenty of space to breathe and really become part of the local community. This remarkable island boasts castles, noble mansions, olive groves, and countless beaches, and is famous as the birthplace of both ancient poet Sappho and ouzo.

The island is renowned for its cultural heritage and continues to attract artists and writers today, drawn by its authentic atmosphere and creative community. Its thermal springs, petrified forest, and traditional architecture provide a unique living environment that feels genuinely Greek rather than touristy.

Ideal for the authentic culture seeker: Those who want the real deal. Lesvos appeals to budget-conscious individuals, artists, writers, and anyone seeking peaceful integration into traditional Greek communities. The island suits those who value authenticity over convenience and prefer cultural immersion to tourist amenities, offering genuine Greek island life without the commercialization of more popular destinations.

What’s it like living there? Lesvos offers some of the most affordable living costs in Greece while maintaining excellent amenities and infrastructure. The slower pace of life and strong local community make it ideal for those seeking genuine cultural immersion and authentic relationships with Greek neighbors. The diverse ecosystems, from wetlands to olive groves to volcanic landscapes, provide endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts while maintaining a peaceful atmosphere year-round.

The island’s traditional way of life remains largely intact, offering visitors a chance to experience Greece as it was decades ago, complete with local festivals, traditional crafts, and time-honored customs that continue to thrive.

Where you’ll live: Accommodation is exceptionally affordable, with traditional village houses in areas like Petra and Molivos available from €280-€500 monthly, modern apartments in Mytilene ranging from €320-€600 monthly, and villa rentals offering excellent value at €400-€800 monthly. Waterfront properties provide exceptional value compared to other Greek islands, with seaside apartments from €450-€900 monthly, many retaining authentic character with original stone construction, private gardens, and spectacular views.

Sorting Out the Paperwork

Since Brexit, things have gotten a bit more complicated, but it’s definitely doable. UK citizens now face new requirements for living in Greece long-term, though short-term visits remain straightforward.

Short visits up to 90 days: No visa needed, just make sure your passport is valid and has at least 3 months left when you plan to leave the Schengen area. Your passport must also have a date of issue less than 10 years before you arrive.

Staying longer? Here are your main options:

Digital Nomad Visa: Perfect if you’re working remotely for companies or clients outside Greece. You need to prove you earn at least €3,500 per month after taxes from stable remote income. The visa is valid for 12 months and can be extended into a two-year residence permit, making it ideal for those testing the waters of island life.

Once approved, you can bring your entire family along as long as you meet the higher income requirements of an additional 20% for a spouse and 15% for each child on top of the base €3,500. An attractive feature is that you’ll pay no taxes to the Greek state if you stay for less than 183 days per year, though you cannot work for Greek employers or start a business in Greece under this visa category.

Golden Visa Investment Route: If you’ve got some cash to invest, this might be your ticket. British buyers are eligible for the Golden Visa scheme since leaving the EU. Spend €250,000 on property outside Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, and Santorini, or €500,000 in these premium areas, and you’ll get a residence permit for you and your family.

Employment-Based Residence: For those seeking employment in Greece, a work permit and subsequent residence permit are required, typically involving securing a job offer before application.

Retirement and Independent Means: Various long-term residence options exist for retirees and those with independent income, typically requiring proof of financial means and comprehensive health insurance.

Read: Is A Holiday To Greece In 2023 Expensive? Average Costs & Tips For Budgeting Better

The Practical Stuff

Healthcare: For digital nomads in Greece, comprehensive health insurance is mandatory for obtaining the digital nomad visa and is crucial for accessing healthcare services during your stay. For those not immediately eligible for state healthcare, private health insurance becomes essential and is generally more affordable than UK private healthcare. If you’re going to be working and paying into the Greek social insurance system, you’ll get state healthcare on the same basis as a Greek citizen through EOPYY, the Greek National Organisation for Healthcare Services Provision.

Banking: You’ll need a Greek bank account for pretty much everything from paying rent and utility bills to everyday expenses. The process starts with getting your AFM, which is your Greek tax number (Arithmo Forologiko Mitro), and while it involves some paperwork, it’s straightforward once you know the steps. Digital nomads can open accounts with major Greek banks like Eurobank, which offers specific services for remote workers and expats, making the process smoother for those on digital nomad visas.

Buying Property: Properties for sale in Greece are generally much lower priced than UK equivalents, though popular areas like Santorini and Mykonos command premium prices. Many buyers find excellent value in traditional properties that need some renovation, particularly on islands like Crete and Lesvos.

If you’re considering purchasing rather than renting, contrary to popular belief, it’s possible to buy a home in Greece without a Golden Visa. Yes, you read that correctly. If you are from outside the EU and want to buy a home in Greece, you don’t need a Golden Visa. Indeed, there are other Visas besides the Golden Visa you get with property investment.

As Forbes writes “a Greek golden visa investment only makes sense in a handful of specific cases (if you’re from a country that does not enjoy visa-free travel to the EU or if you’re looking to gain residency without becoming a tax resident in Greece)”. They go onto explain that “if you’re interested in gaining residency in Greece, there are simpler, more affordable alternatives, such as the Financially Independent Persons Visa (a “self-sufficiency” visa) and the digital nomad visa”.

Money matters: You’ll need to declare any assets held outside Greece and file an annual declaration of assets alongside your annual tax return. There are severe penalties for failing to file or providing incorrect information, so professional tax advice is strongly recommended to navigate the complexities of dual-country obligations.

Cost of living comparisons: A three-course meal for two costs around £43 in Greece compared to £60 in the UK. A loaf of bread runs about £1.08 versus £1.22 back home, while a pint costs around £3.90 compared to £4.50 in Britain. Monthly public transport passes are approximately £26 versus £68 in the UK, and perhaps most significantly, rent for a one-bedroom city center apartment averages £433 compared to £1,059 in the UK.

The Bottom Line

Living year-round on a Greek island is genuinely one of Europe’s most attractive lifestyle choices for UK citizens. These four represent the cream of Greece’s year-round living destinations – islands large enough and economically diverse enough to support permanent residents, each offering distinct characters, climates, and communities to suit different lifestyles and budgets.

Yes, Brexit has added some paperwork, but the various visa routes mean committed folks can still make it happen. The combination of excellent weather, affordable living costs, rapidly improving internet infrastructure, and rich cultural heritage makes these islands serious alternatives to traditional retirement or remote work destinations.

The secret to success lies in thorough research, understanding the legal requirements, and picking an island that matches both your lifestyle dreams and practical needs. With proper planning, realistic expectations, and perhaps a bit of patience with Greek bureaucracy, that Mediterranean island life could be closer than you think.