Daniel Carizalez, originally from England and Venezuela, left London and settled in Nafplio with his family in 2010. Fourteen years later, he hasn't regretted it for a moment.

The 49-year-old music composer and internet entrepreneur moved with his wife and four-month-old daughter, and they have since had another daughter in Greece.

The reasons they decided to move to Greece

Speaking to the Daily Mail, he revealed the reasons that led him to this life decision. “We were drawn to the Mediterranean lifestyle, the rich culture and the beautiful landscapes. Greece offered a slower, more fulfilling way of life and the opportunity to raise our family surrounded by history, nature and strong community values.”

In fact, he says he had never experienced such an amazing “sense of community” before moving to Greece. “The biggest surprise was the deep, genuine friendliness of the people here. The warmth and hospitality are even more intense than I expected. The Greeks go out of their way to make you feel welcome.”

The relaxed and healthy lifestyle was the biggest advantage of the move for Daniel, who loves to be “surrounded in his daily life by natural beauty” and by people who “really care about each other.”

He also explains that “crime is not a major problem in Nafplio” and although there is “petty crime”, in general “it feels very safe and people look out for each other”.

The difficulties of life in Greece

One of the “difficult” parts of life in Greece, as Daniel admits, is the bureaucracy, which - as he notes - “is a bigger challenge in Greece than in England”. He explains: “The pace here can be a bit slower. Things like bureaucracy and setting up services can take longer than in the UK, which is frustrating. Things tend to be more modern in the UK”.

Driving in Greece can also be something of an “adventure”, says Daniel, with the “narrow and winding country roads” being a challenge. But he adds that “the view is worth it”.

Why did he choose Nafplio

So how did he end up moving to Nafplio with his family? “Nafplio is known for its historical significance, beautiful architecture and charming beaches. It’s a perfect mix of culture, landscape and close-knit community, and a wonderful environment for our family,” he explains.

In case anyone else is thinking about moving to Nafplio permanently, Daniel says that housing “can be affordable,” with “charming traditional houses, many with balconies and courtyards,” and “a variety of options from city apartments to rural houses in olive groves.”

As for healthcare, Daniel says it is “generally good”, although he adds that the private sector has “immediate service and excellent specialists at affordable prices”, while public healthcare can “sometimes be slower, especially in rural areas”.

How he feels about entertainment and food

Nafplio also offers a “lively” social scene. “We have a close circle of friends and enjoy everything from relaxed dinners in taverns to festivals. The nightlife is definitely nice – there are various options from traditional music venues to modern bars with a view”.

As for the food: “It’s fantastic”, he emphasizes, adding that he “loves the emphasis the country places on fresh and local ingredients”. His favourite restaurant is a “magical” taverna called “Bounos Psarosavouras” in the old town of Nafplio overlooking the sea and Bourtzi Castle.

In closing, and when asked if he would recommend other Britons to venture to Greece and specifically Nafplio, he says:

“Absolutely. If you value the way of life, the connection with nature and the sense of community, Greece is a wonderful place to live. It is an ideal destination for those who wish to embrace a balanced, well-rounded lifestyle.”

Daniel has a YouTube channel, My Greek Lifestyle, where he often posts videos of his life in Greece, with its problems and its little joys.everyday life, as well as the difficulties he faced while learning Greek. At the same time, on his Instagram he shares snapshots of his everyday life in Nafplio, making many foreigners -as one can see in the comments- jealous of him.