Greece

Greecehttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/europe/greeceGreecehttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/europe/greece/travel-alertsWhat are the issues affecting travelers in Greece? Read the latest travel warnings and alerts.2021-08-24T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/europe/greece/travel-alertshttps://www.worldnomads.com<h2>Wildfires in Greece – July 2018</h2> <div class="AccordionSection nst-component nst-is-collapsed"> <div class="nst-content"> <div class="AccordionSection-inner"> <p>More than 50 people are feared dead and more than 150 injured as several wildfires rage out of control in Greece. Fire crews are battling blazes in the following locations: northeast of Athens in the Penteli region, Rafina region and the coastal seaside towns of Mati and Kineta. Greece is currently experiencing heatwave conditions with temperatures exceeding 104°F (40°C), and the fires are being fanned by high winds.<br /><br />The Athens-Corinth motorway has been closed by authorities. The motorway is one of two major routes to the Peloponnese peninsula. Train and other transport services in affected areas have been canceled.</p> <p>A state of emergency has been declared, and the Prime Minister of Greece, Alexis Tsipras, has cut short a trip to Bosnia to return home. Spain and Cyprus have offered firefighting assistance.</p> <p>Travelers in Greece should heed government warnings and keep up to date with local news and alerts. Those with respiratory health issues should travel away from affected areas and avoid breathing in the smoke where possible.<br /><br />Also, check with your insurer as cover for this event may be excluded from a certain date.</p> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Travel-Safety/Greece/GettyImages-1004381162-Greece-fire.jpg" /><figcaption>Image: Getty/Angelos Tzortzinis. 23 July. People watch a wildfire in the town of Rafina</figcaption></figure> </div> </div> </div> <p><em>Before you buy a travel insurance policy, check your government travel warnings and health advice – there may be no travel insurance cover for locations with a government travel ban or health advice against travel.</em></p>Getty Images/ImageSource 1 Getty Images Greek flag

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/europe/greece/scorpions-and-other-nasties-in-greeceVaccinations, medical facilities, mosquitoes and scorpions – these are some of the health risks to be aware of before you go to Greece.2020-10-01T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/europe/greece/scorpions-and-other-nasties-in-greecehttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>You’d have to be pretty unlucky to get stung by a scorpion while traveling in Greece, but it pays to be prepared. You can get stung, bitten, burnt, squished, smashed, and all but asphyxiated in Greece, by mosquitoes, scorpions, the sun, scooters, the sea and Athens' often terrible pollution.</p> <p>Here's what to look out for on your trip to Greece.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#vaccinations">Vaccinations for Greece</a></li> <li><a href="#treatment">Medical treatment in Greece</a></li> <li><a href="#mosquitos-and-scorpions">Mosquitoes and scorpions</a></li> <li><a href="#sun-safety-in-greece">Sun safety in Greece</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="vaccinations">Vaccinations for Greece</h2> <p>There are no required vaccinations for travel to Greece but as with most destinations, make sure your routine vaccinations are up to date.</p> <h2 id="treatment">Medical treatment in Greece</h2> <p>As with most countries, the standard of medical facilities can vary depending on where you are traveling. In Greece, public hospitals are underfunded, putting a strain on nursing services and resources, which means they can be crowded and sometimes there is a poor standard of hygiene. However, in the major cities care tends to be of a high standard and you are likely to encounter English-speaking staff.</p> <p>Private medical facilities are available but are expensive and payment is usually required upfront. The emergency number in Greece is 112, and operators will speak English, Greek, and French. If you need an ambulance, it's best to use private medical facilities or take a taxi as response times for the public ambulance service have been reported to be lengthy and unreliable.</p> <p>Pharmacies tend to be good quality in terms of service, information <g class="gr_ gr_438 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Punctuation only-ins replaceWithoutSep" id="438" data-gr-id="438">and</g> medications. </p> <h2 id="mosquitos-and-scorpions">Mosquitoes and scorpions</h2> <p>Serious mosquito-borne illness is rare in Greece, but take some insect repellant for your comfort.</p> <p>There are scorpions throughout Greece, including Athens. The greatest danger is from accidentally turning over a rock and stepping on one, but they also come inside buildings. Always check your shoes and clothing before wearing, shake out bags, and keep them <g class="gr_ gr_692 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Style multiReplace" id="692" data-gr-id="692">closed in</g> case a scorpion decides to have a snooze in your belongings.</p> <p>Generally, scorpion stings are only life-threatening for those who are highly allergic. </p> <p>If you are stung by a scorpion:</p> <ul> <li>Don't panic.</li> <li>Wash the area gently with soap and water.</li> <li>Put a cold compress (ice in a cloth) on the wound.</li> <li>If you feel tingling in the extremities or get blurry vision or rapid eye movement, or hyperactivity, go to a hospital regardless. There's no way of gauging the severity of the sting, or your reaction to it. Seek medical help, just in case.</li> </ul> <h2 id="sun-safety-in-greece">Sun safety in Greece</h2> <p>Greece gets hot in summer. Athens holds the record for the hottest temperature recorded in Europe – a stifling 118 F (48 C). If you're from somewhere with a little less sunshine, you could get sunburnt very easily.</p> <p>Put on sunscreen 15 minutes before venturing outside, and re-apply every couple of hours (more often if you're swimming). Wear a hat, and drink plenty of water (<a href="/travel-safety/europe/greece/what-is-the-legal-drinking-age-in-greece" target="_blank">sorry, <em>ouzo</em> doesn't count</a>) to prevent dehydration. If possible, try to avoid activities during the hottest part of the day between <g class="gr_ gr_715 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Style multiReplace" id="715" data-gr-id="715">11am</g> and <g class="gr_ gr_721 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Style multiReplace" id="721" data-gr-id="721">2pm</g>.</p> <p>The hot temperatures and lack of rain make Greece susceptible to wildfires which can move quickly. If one breaks out in your area get some information on what danger it may pose – ask the locals or drop into the police station.</p> <p>A couple of handy tips to know about fire behavior:</p> <ul> <li>Wildfire follows the wind direction, so if you smell smoke it could be coming in your direction.</li> <li>Fire burns uphill regardless of wind direction, if there's a blaze in a valley below you, pay close attention to the fire's movement.</li> </ul> <p>If you fear the fire could come your way, leave as early as possible.</p> <h3>Have you had any nasty encounters?</h3> <p>Had an encounter with something nasty and bitey in Greece? We'd love to hear about it, leave your comment below.</p> <p><em>Before you buy a travel insurance policy, check your government travel warnings and health advice – there may be no travel insurance cover for locations with a government travel ban or health advice against travel.</em></p>iStock/vasiliki 0458089353 iStock People swim and sunbath at Agios Yiannis (Ai Yiannis) beach

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/europe/greece/safety-in-greeceA look at travel safety, common risks, and smart precautions in Greece2026-03-11T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/europe/greece/safety-in-greecehttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Rocky islands dotted with whitewashed buildings. Sweeping coasts on the edge of blue waters. Ancient ruins, vineyards, and plates of fresh salads and seafood. Greece has adventures in store for most type of traveler. I’ve been lucky to road trip across the winding roads of Crete, taste my way through Greek cuisine and wine, and dive in some of Greece’s caves and wrecks in the bluer than blue waters.</p> <p>While the country is an overall approachable, safe destination for everyone, there are a few things to keep in mind including seasonality and road safety to ensure your Grecian holiday goes as smoothly as possible.</p> <h2>Best time to travel to Greece</h2> <p>A Grecian summer may sound idyllic, but temperatures can be scorching hot, tourist crowds are at their peak, and prices are higher than usual. Although winter months don’t experience extreme cold, many businesses may be closed, travel between islands reduced, and windy conditions may cancel ferries.</p> <p>Shoulder seasons—late spring and early fall—hit the sweet spot. Mild temperatures are ideal for outdoor adventures, you’re not competing with cruise crowds and summer vacationers, and you’ll be able to experience a slower paced side of Greece.</p> <h2>Road Safety</h2> <p>A car isn’t necessary to see Greece’s cities and smaller islands, but a rental car is helpful for mainland road trips or to explore one of the bigger islands, like Crete. If you do decide to rent a car in Greece, keep a few things in mind.</p> <p>Main highways are modern and easy to navigate, but rural and island roads are trickier. These roads are narrow, winding, and often poorly lit. Navigate them with a sharp sense of awareness, especially at night. Don’t try to overtake on blind corners and be aware of different rules of the road in Greece.</p> <p>Motor scooters are a fun and convenient way to explore the smaller islands but make sure to wear a helmet and protective clothing. Same precautions as a car—be careful of driving around sharp, winding corners. The bumpy, narrow roads aren’t the best place for first timers to learn to drive a scooter or motorcycle.</p> <h2>Travel Scams and General Safety</h2> <p>Greece is a safe destination overall, known for its welcoming hospitality. Violence, theft, and political instability are minimal. It’s important to stay aware, nonetheless, and keep an eye out for a few things.</p> <ul> <li>Be aware of your personal belongings on the metro and in crowded markets.</li> <li>In major cities like Athens and Thessaloniki, demonstrations take place from time-to-time. Avoid political activity if you stumble across it.</li> <li>In tourist hot spots, such as around the Parthenon in Athens or on popular islands like Mykonos and Santorini, you may be subject to inflated tourist prices at restaurants and cafes. Don’t be afraid to wander outside of these spots.</li> <li>To avoid taxi surcharges in around major tourist sites or from the airport, book with trusted rideshare apps or ask the taxi to use a meter.</li> </ul> <h2>Safety in Athens, Greece</h2> <p>Athens—the capital and largest city of Greece—is the first stop for many visitors. The city is considered safe, including for solo, female, and LGBTQ+ travelers. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime and traffic are the biggest concerns. Take a few precautions to ensure your time in Athens is hassle-free:</p> <ul> <li>Take care of your belongings in crowded areas like Plaka, Monastiraki, and the Acropolis to avoid pick pocketers.</li> <li>Traffic can be chaotic, so be careful when crossing streets. Don’t expect cars and motorcycles to stop at pedestrian crossings.</li> <li>Plaka and Kolonaki are popular for nightlife and are generally safe. Remember to use common sense, limit your alcohol consumption, and stick to well-lit streets on a night out.</li> <li>Driving can be crazy and public transportation and rideshares are easy, so avoid renting a car or scooter in Athens unless absolutely necessary.</li> </ul> <h2>Weather and Natural Hazards</h2> <p>From late June to early September, Greece experiences extreme temperatures, often exceeding 95F (35C). Not only do these high temperatures make it challenging to explore, but major attractions may also be closed in extreme heat. My first visit to Greece was in August, and it’s still a lesson I remember—never travel to Greece in the height of summer again. If you have the option, avoid traveling to Greece during July and August.</p> <p>If you are traveling during these months, take a few precautions:</p> <ul> <li>Wear sunscreen and a hat.</li> <li>Adventure during early mornings and evenings.</li> <li>Take rest in shade.</li> <li>Stay hydrated.</li> </ul> <p>Greece is prone to natural disasters, including summer wildfires. Due to its location on the Eurasian and Aegean Sea Plates, small tremors can occur though major earthquakes are rare. In the unlikely event that a larger earthquake shakes up your visit, follow the instructions of your hotel staff. With changing weather patterns, flash floods have also increased in frequency. While difficult to predict, is it important to stay aware that flash foods happen on occasion.</p> <h2>Water and Outdoor Adventure Safety</h2> <p>Greece is known for its picturesque beaches, brilliant blue waters, and rolling mountains. Whether you’re a new or seasoned outdoor adventurer, get outside and explore Greece’s abundant landscapes. And as with anywhere, take a few precautions along the way.</p> <p>While most beaches are safe, be careful of strong currents especially near beaches with cliffs and on windy day. Steer clear of rocky areas when swimming, so waves don’t crash you against the rocks. Be mindful of currents and rocky areas, whether you’re swimming, kayaking, or paddle boarding. When in doubt, stay on shore.</p> <p>Whether you sail between islands, kitesurf from the beach, or explore Greece’s expansive underwater world of caverns, stalagmites, and shipwrecks, make sure you go with reputable companies to ensure your gear is safe and guides are professional. And don’t be afraid to take some refresher lessons to brush up on any necessary skills.</p> <p>Beyond its coastlines, Greece is plentiful with mountains and trails plentiful with opportunities for hiking and rock climbing. Familiarize yourself with the route before heading out using maps and trail apps or go with a guide if you’re planning to explore more remote areas. For summer hikes, protect yourself from the sun and bring more than enough water. Many routes, especially along the coast are unshaded.</p> <h2>Why you may want to consider travel insurance for Greece</h2> <p>Whether you’re thinking of sailing, diving, hiking, or road tripping around Greece, travel insurance can come in handy throughout your trip. Travel insurance for Greece may protect your wallet against many things, including:</p> <ul> <li>Trip cancellation and interruption</li> <li>Injuries from a cycling accident</li> <li>Medical evacuation and repatriation</li> <li>and more</li> </ul> <p>If you’re an outdoor adventurer, a travel plan may also provide cover in case something unexpected occurs. Whether you get injured while swimming in the ocean or have an accident while motorcycling, a travel insurance plan for Greece may help you out. World Nomads offers policies and plans designed for residents of several different countries. Each plan has varying benefits and protections, protecting your Greek trip every step of the way.</p> <p><em>*Travel insurance coverage may not be the same or available for residents of all countries, states or provinces. Please carefully read your policy wording for a full description of coverage</em></p>Getty Images/George Pachantouris 11198976262 Getty Images The Acropolis and the old town of Athens, Greece

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/europe/greece/what-is-the-legal-drinking-age-in-greeceSocial drinking is a part of Greek culture, but take it easy on the ouzo. Here's how to stay safe and enjoy the nightlife in Greece.2018-04-27T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/europe/greece/what-is-the-legal-drinking-age-in-greecehttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>In Greece, you must be 18 or over to buy alcohol or consume it in public. However, it's unusual to be asked for ID in bars, cafes or supermarkets where you can buy just about any type of alcohol.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#drinking-culture-in-greece">Drinking culture in Greece</a></li> <li><a href="#drink-responsibly-in-greece">Drink responsibly in Greece</a></li> <li><a href="#alcohol-poisoning-in-greece">Alcohol poisoning in Greece</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="drinking-culture-in-greece">Drinking culture in Greece</h2> <p>Social drinking is a big part of Greek life. Traditionally, Greeks drink at every meal – even young children will be given a glass of watered-down wine. But drinking to excess is frowned on, and you are expected to stay "nice".</p> <p>Most Greeks do this by drinking moderately and eating <em>mezze</em> as they go.</p> <p>These subtleties of the Greek drinking culture have been missed (or deliberately abused) by some visitors.</p> <p>Some Greek islands have become party destinations for young people, even if they wouldn't legally be allowed to do so at home.</p> <h2 id="drink-responsibly-in-greece">Drink responsibly in Greece</h2> <p>Try to follow the traditional Greek way, and drink moderately. Pick a <em>taverna</em> close to where you're staying. Leave the quad bike at home.</p> <p>While not keen to enforce the drinking age, Greek police are keen to enforce drink-driving laws. They regularly stop drivers and test their blood-alcohol content. Relative to other European countries the legal limit is quite low – blow .05 and you're over the limit.</p> <p>When walking back to your accommodation, take care on the winding roads. Don't fall off the edge, and watch out for less responsible revelers (the ones on the quad bikes) coming around the bend in the dark.</p> <h2 id="alcohol-poisoning-in-greece">Alcohol poisoning in Greece</h2> <p>If you're tempted to "go Greek" and try the <em>ouzo</em> (best on the rocks with seafood), be ready for the hangover. It's a particularly strong liquor, with its own special way of reminding you about the night before.</p> <p>Similarly, watch out for the village specialty. Homemade spirit is technically illegal in Greece, but locals spirits are <g class="gr_ gr_550 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Punctuation only-del replaceWithoutSep" id="550" data-gr-id="550">made,</g> and will blow your socks off, but exactly what's in it, and if it complies with health standards, is anyone's guess. Try to have just one to limit the damage.</p> <p>If the bartender asks you what's your poison, he might not be joking. The beachside bars famous for serving bargain-priced drinks that might not be what's advertised on the label.</p> <p>Some bars are notorious for watering-down drinks, but not with water, but <em>pure alcohol</em>. It's cheap for them and keeps the kick in the drink that has customers coming back for more. This practice makes it difficult to calculate exactly how much you've had to drink, and the pure alcohol may not be so pure to your system – it's extremely toxic.</p>iStock/jarino47 0911601372 iStock People dining at a village in Panormos, Crete island

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/europe/greece/toilets-in-greece-water-safetyThere’s a very important rule for using the bathroom in Greece: don’t flush your toilet paper. Find out why.2026-04-16T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/europe/greece/toilets-in-greece-water-safetyhttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>The most memorable travel adventures take many forms. Perhaps one of the key indicators that you’re out of your familiar surroundings are the cultural differences in using toilets around the world.</p> <p>Adjusting to different types of conveniences can often be amusing, but tricky to get used to and sometimes a bit unsanitary. It helps to arm yourself with information in advance so <span>you’re prepared in your</span> moment of need.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#toilets">What's different about Greek toilets?</a></li> <li><a href="#etiquette">What is the toilet etiquette in Greece?</a></li> <li><a href="#greece">Are toilets the same everywhere in Greece?</a></li> <li><a href="#squat">How common are squat toilets in Greece?</a></li> <li><a href="#tap">Can I drink the tap water in Greece?</a></li> <li><a href="#hygiene">General hygiene for Greece</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="toilets">What's different about Greek toilets?</h2> <p data-start="0" data-end="343">Greek plumbing systems are often more delicate than those in the US or UK, with<span> </span>narrower sewage pipes that can easily become blocked by toilet paper or other items. This is largely due to<span> </span>older infrastructure and drainage systems, which were not designed to handle the same waste volumes or materials common in modern Western plumbing.</p> <p data-start="345" data-end="506">As a result, many toilets in Greece, particularly in older buildings and on some islands, ask visitors to dispose of toilet paper in a bin rather than flushing it.</p> <p data-start="508" data-end="913">Greece actually has a long history of early sanitation innovation: the<span> </span>first known flushing toilets date back to the Palace of Knossos on Crete (around 1700 BC). While modern plumbing has of course evolved significantly since then, many parts of the country still rely on<span> </span>legacy or constrained sewage systems, meaning pipes remain narrower and more prone to clogging if non-human waste is flushed.</p> <p data-start="915" data-end="1098" data-is-last-node="" data-is-only-node="">In short, while infrastructure varies widely today, the safest general rule for travelers is still to<span> </span>avoid flushing toilet paper unless signage clearly indicates it is permitted.</p> <h2 id="etiquette">What is the toilet etiquette in Greece?</h2> <p>The biggest thing to note is simply this: don’t flush toilet paper down the loo.</p> <p>What happens if you do flush toilet paper? Due to the narrow pipes, you may end up with a clogged or overflowing toilet – unpleasant and embarrassing, to say the least.</p> <p>You will find there are bins to the side of the toilet where you can dispose of your tissue instead. The bins tend to have lids and foot pedals and are emptied at least once daily, so it’s not as gruesome as it sounds. You will find there are signs in toilets everywhere to remind you of this, from hotel rooms to cafes and tourist hotspots.</p> <h2 id="greece">Are toilets the same everywhere in Greece?</h2> <p>More modern hotels, airports and shopping developments in Greece have improved designs and sewage networks and might offer toilets with better flushing facilities, but obviously, it depends on where you go.</p> <p>Greek blogger Vanessa Fou has traveled widely around her country and shares tips and advice for visitors on her website <span><a href="https://realgreekexperiences.com/">realgreekexperiences.com.</a></span> She says toilets vary depending on the region and type of establishment you are visiting.</p> <p>“Upmarket hotels, restaurants and airports will typically have clean and well-maintained toilets. The toilets in some local tavernas, coffee shops, bus stations and even ancient sites might not be as well-maintained,” she says. “It's always advisable to carry tissue with you, as sometimes toilet paper may have run out.”</p> <p>It’s also a good tip to wrap your used toilet tissue with a few sheets of clean paper, to make just the clean paper waste visible which will be a bit less icky for you and everyone else who has to use or empty the bin.</p> <p>But don’t freak out about the whole situation, it really isn’t as bad as it sounds.</p> <h2 id="squat">How common are squat toilets in Greece?</h2> <p>These are another thing to keep in mind. They're not very common, but something you might encounter in remote areas. Greece’s squat toilets are exactly as you imagine: a toilet without a toilet seat and bowl, and two panels to place your feet on either side of the hole.</p> <p>Fou says you might find them at places such as the UNESCO World Heritage-listed <a href="https://visitmeteora.travel/meteora-monasteries/">Meteora Monasteries </a>– built in the 14th century and which teeter dramatically on the tops of cliffs and rock formations, so it’s entirely forgivable that the site’s toilets might not be the most modern.</p> <p>If you do come across squat toilets, Fou’s advice for women is that the lower you squat, the better. It goes without saying that the area may not be as clean as you like and you should take extra care when wearing sandals or flip-flops.</p> <h2 id="tap">Can I drink the tap water in Greece?</h2> <p>In general, Fou says hygiene standards can vary across popular tourist destinations.<span>“</span>You can safely drink tap water in many areas of Greece,” she says.</p> <p>“This includes the big cities such as Athens and Thessaloniki, most of the mainland and certain islands. On smaller islands, such as Santorini, tap water is not always drinkable, so you <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/bottled-vs-filtered-water">should drink bottled water</a>.</p> <p>“It's always best to ask the locals at each place you visit if it's safe to drink tap water.”</p> <p><em>Planning a trip to Greece? Find out <a href="/travel-insurance">how travel insurance can help</a> in case of unexpected illness, lost luggage, or other travel mishaps.</em></p> <h2 id="hygiene">General hygiene for Greece</h2> <p>As with travel to any country, it helps to arm yourself with information so you know what you’re dealing with before you go. Greece has high standards of food safety and hygiene, but treating everything with a common-sense approach goes a long way.</p> <p>Wash your hands regularly: after using the toilet, before eating food, after visiting food markets and so on. A little bottle of hand sanitizer is also a useful and easy item to carry around.</p> <p>When eating out, be careful with food that may have been washed, like salads and fruits, when you’re not certain about water safety. The same goes for ice in drinks.</p> <p>If, for whatever reason, <a href="/travel-insurance/whats-covered/overseas-medical">you do need healthcare</a> in Greece, remember that British and EU nationals are entitled to free care under the European Health Insurance Card. Australia, the US and other nations need to make sure they have travel insurance in place.</p>iStock/JudyDillon 0531308568 iStock Ancient toilets in Greece

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/europe/greece/austerity-riots-in-greece-a-guideGreece remains on the ropes economically, and there are other issues which could cause public protests. Find out how to stay safe while travelling in Greece.2018-04-26T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/europe/greece/austerity-riots-in-greece-a-guidehttps://www.worldnomads.com<ul> <li><a href="#pre-trip-safety-tips">Pre-trip safety tips</a></li> <li><a href="#austerity">Austerity riots</a></li> <li><a href="#protests">Current Greek protests</a></li> <li><a href="#riot-safety-while-in-greece">Riot safety while in Greece</a></li> <li><a href="#holiday">Safeguarding your Greek holiday</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="pre-trip-safety-tips">Pre-trip safety tips</h2> <p>If you're going to Greece, here are some tips on avoiding trouble or coping with it if it happens:</p> <ul> <li class="p1">Keep an eye on the news. Check news reports about the situation in Greece as civil unrest can break out sporadically.</li> <li class="p1">Strike dates are announced by union bosses several weeks in advance, so try to arrange your travel around those dates.</li> <li class="p1">Regularly check your government‘s travel advice for Greece.</li> <li class="p1">Speak to your airline or travel provider about what arrangements they have in place should there be a strike or disruption.</li> </ul> <h2 id="austerity">Austerity riots</h2> <p>On the brink of bankruptcy, because of a Mount Olympus-sized debt, Greece has been rescued by several multi-billion Euro bailouts. But to pay for it, the Greek government has had to impose heavy budget cuts; workers have been laid off, salaries slashed, pension entitlements have been reduced and the retirement age has been raised.</p> <p>The Greeks are not happy and show their displeasure with strikes and protests that occasionally turn into riots. Summer is the peak protest period.</p> <p>Years of austerity measures have left a mark on Greek society; unemployment is high and, according to 2017 reports, a quarter of Greeks are living in poverty. The situation is worst in Athens.</p> <p>"Travelers will notice there is graffiti everywhere," says Graeme a regular visitor with family ties to Greece. "There are beggars on the street, people living on the street, and shops closed, even in downtown Athens." His advice is to stay in the center of Athens and not to venture north of Omnia Square. "Be alert, hand on <g class="gr_ gr_152 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar only-ins doubleReplace replaceWithoutSep" id="152" data-gr-id="152">bag</g>, use the tube, know where you are going. Double check in your hotel what areas are like. Like any city, there are dodgy areas, poverty and an influx of refugees. Be aware, don't be stupid."</p> <p>However, the Greek Islands are different to the <g class="gr_ gr_1176 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Punctuation only-del replaceWithoutSep" id="1176" data-gr-id="1176">mainland,</g> and have always had their own economy. "Travel is down on previous years, but actually it's a really good time to go as it is not so busy. People genuinely appreciate the support, and have more time to be nice to tourists."</p> <p>Visitors <g class="gr_ gr_116 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Grammar multiReplace" id="116" data-gr-id="116">are reminded</g> the limits on cash withdrawals at ATMs DO NOT apply to people with foreign, non-Greek bank accounts, so there is no need to carry large amounts of cash.</p> <h2 id="protests">Current Greek protests</h2> <h3>Lesvos</h3> <p>Greece's third largest island, Lesvos is known for its architecture, ancient culture, hot springs and activities for nature lovers, and it hasn't been subjected to over tourism <g class="gr_ gr_1316 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Punctuation only-ins replaceWithoutSep" id="1316" data-gr-id="1316">unlike</g> some other Greek islands. In April 2018, clashes between migrants and ultra-right wing nationalists broke out, and riot police stepped in to bring law and order to the island. Lesvos was a major entry point for thousands of refugees in 2015, and while the number entering Greece has slowed, it's still placing pressure on Lesvos and its infrastructure.</p> <h3>Athens</h3> <p>Locals in Athens have been out in force protesting against continuing government austerity measures. Many people have had to sell their homes to pay back debts they owe to government departments and utilities such as water and electricity. It's estimated 18,000 homes will be auctioned during 2018 which has sparked violent clashes and riots in Athens and other major cities including Thessaloniki. </p> <h2 id="riot-safety-while-in-greece">Riot safety while in Greece</h2> <p class="p1">Avoid all protests. Hundreds of thousands of people waving flags and banners is a spectacular sight, you may even sympathize with their <g class="gr_ gr_133 gr-alert gr_gramm gr_inline_cards gr_run_anim Punctuation only-del replaceWithoutSep" id="133" data-gr-id="133">cause,</g> but stay away. The peaceful rallies are unpredictable and can turn violent very quickly.</p> <p class="p1">The police won‘t discriminate between disgruntled locals and you. If you deliberately put yourself in harm‘s way and get injured, it‘s unlikely your travel insurer will look favorably on your claim. However, if you stumble on a protest, or are in some way caught in the middle of a riot you didn‘t know was happening, you should be covered for any loss or injury.</p> <p class="p1">Contact your family and friends to let them know where you are and arrange regular contact where possible. If they don't hear from you, at least they will know your last known location to give to authorities.</p> <p class="p1">Contact your embassy to let them know if the situation is becoming dangerous. They will also assist you with any updates and information.</p> <p class="p1">If you do need to approach police for help, do it with caution and remain calm. Identify yourself with your passport or identification so they know you are a visitor.</p> <p>If a strike shuts down public transport or prevents you from getting to, or leaving your holiday destination, speak to your travel provider. They should be able to make alternative arrangements for you. It‘s their responsibility to provide you with the service you‘ve paid for. British travelers are covered by a compulsory scheme that pays for this eventuality. If all else fails, call your travel insurer, you‘ll be able to discuss your options with someone.</p> <h2 id="holiday">Safeguarding your Greek holiday</h2> <p>If the economic situation doesn‘t improve, it‘s possible some tourism businesses will fail. If that happens try to rearrange the service or get a refund through your travel provider, or contact the consumer protection authority in that country.</p> <p>Unfortunately, travel insurance generally doesn‘t cover business failure. Larger, well-established businesses are more likely to be able to withstand a downturn – go with the big names.</p>iStock/zepperwing 0458541865 iStock