There is a huge diversity in the population of Karystos and as a result, there is a diversity in culture too. Either walking in the streets, or shopping in supermarkets , the wide range of nationalities makes a strong impression on us, -the locals.
There hasn't been a long time since first came as residents people from Albania. It was in the 80s. Then the Pakistani and the Indians followed. The Indians left ,but the Pakistani have formed their own small community . These people work in different labour jobs and especially the Albanias have proven to be very successful . As I have worked and formed friendships with a lot of families I feel them as distant relatives and I am very happy that they have chosen to come.
Other national groups who tradionally come to Karystos to retire are Germans, English, Dutch, Americans and French . There are also a few coming from Norway or Sweden as well as other parts of the world. These people lead a peaceful life, create their own special friendly bonds, have strong artistic presence and they live in good terms with the locals.
The last nationality which has recently come is the Israelis. The have bought land and houses -as all the others- but this sudden influx has created a little concern to the rest of the population.
We also have to tell something about the Chinese who may be a few,but they have overpowered the local market. And something like this is very distressing. The have a lot of help in investments from their country and they don't pay their taxes under the same terms with Greeks. It is unfair and creates a lot of financial problems to the rest of the shop-keepers. Nevertheless, a lot of people shop there to save a little more of their scant income.
As far as - the locals- this is a kind of misconception as the majority of Greeks, are not 'old fashioned' Karystians , but come from other parts of the coutry. 50, 60 years ago, Karystos was just a little seaside town but now, all the hills are full of residential areas. The villages ,which were distincly separated from the town, now form a unity.
I think it would be a nice idea to have a summer food festival which will bring together all these different people who work, live, or just spend their holiday time in this beautiful side of Evia island.
If you, reader, have not been here yet, you are welcome ,as long as, you come in peace.
