Bread is expensive. Olive oil is expensive. Electricity is expensive. Fortunately, the sun is still free. For now.
Greece has reportedly found a revolutionary way to help households cope with the rising cost of living: eat less, consume less, and ideally learn to photosynthesize.
With energy bills squeezing businesses, bakeries warning of possible price increases, and the cost of everyday essentials continuing to worry households, the country’s unofficial survival guide is getting simpler. If you cannot afford bread, perhaps you should reconsider your relationship with carbohydrates.
Olive oil getting expensive? Stop dipping.
Coffee becoming a luxury? Try staring thoughtfully at a coffee plant.
Electricity bills climbing? Go to bed at sunset and wake up when the rooster files its morning report.
The New Mediterranean Diet
Nutritionists have long praised the Mediterranean diet. The new economic version takes things a little further.
Forget extra virgin olive oil. Try extra strong willpower.
Forget freshly baked bread. Enjoy the aroma from outside the bakery, where it is still free.
And if you are particularly hungry, stand near a greenhouse. Plants seem to be doing remarkably well without ordering takeaway.
The Electricity Problem Has a Simple Solution
Businesses struggling with energy bills have asked for support, while a €95 million electricity subsidy package for industry has raised questions about help for smaller enterprises.
But why stop at subsidies when citizens could simply adapt?
Ovens could operate only when the sun shines directly through the window. Restaurants could replace refrigerators with optimistic thoughts. Bakeries could sell bread by candlelight, assuming the candles are on special offer.
As for air conditioning during a Greek summer, citizens could return to the traditional method of standing very still in the shade and reconsidering their life choices.
Tourism Remains Unaffected, Naturally
Visitors arriving in Greece will continue to discover a land of extraordinary beauty, hospitality, sunshine and excellent food.
Locals, meanwhile, may soon be asked to admire the food rather than eat it.
The new premium tourist experience could include a complimentary photograph of a village bakery, a guided tour of an olive grove, and a complimentary deep breath of Mediterranean air.
Meals available at an additional charge.