Greece

Poster_girl

Hi All

I am thinking about where to go on holiday this year and thought of Greece (not been there before). Question is would you go there on holiday given their economic situation? I hadn't thought this would be a problem but it was something queried by a friend.

Ainsley1

Going to Greece this year: Comments based upon my contacts with Greek residents and my own opinion.

First the downside: Might be a bit of disruption to some services such as that which may be owing to strikes (generally short term) and these could impact more on a short break. Much of Athens is still fine though there is a lot more poverty and homelessness but unless you are staying there it would not affect you. Overall demonstrations are generally confined to local areas especially around the parliament building in Syntagma square. Many of the Greek people struggle for cash/jobs but that does not really affect you as a tourist. If it did there would be very few places in the world anybody would go to!

On the upside most of the rest of the country carries on in it's laid back way and 'filoxenia' (courtesy/hospitality to the stranger) still abounds so the people are still very welcoming of visitors (perhaps a little less so at times to Germans, by a few) and they need the tourism. No change to the weather, tranquillity or excitement (depending upon your choice of location). Independent travel is probably a bit more risky if flights are disrupted and costs seem to have risen but for those but booking through a tour operator that still gives that added level of security of holiday and there seems to be a few good deals around from the travel companies.

Talk of economic default should not really affect you especially if you go 'all in'. Otherwise it might be best to take a decent amount of Euros in cash in reserve in case the banking system starts to have problems affecting ATMs.

It might seem to a person to be a bit risky but I have contacts with lots of people who love going to Greece, are familiar with the situation and it's not stopping them! I know of a couple just back from a winter break of three months to an island and said it was superb!

If you have not been before and do not go you will be missing out on one of the great places to holiday. So much to see, do and experience for those interested in archaeology (many excellent spectacles generally cheap, sometimes free), history land/seascapes, mountains beaches. A preference for 'activity' holidays such as sailing, walking etc. is well catered for as is the party type of location (though that would not be my choice!). Go sample a different way of life and the great Greek food (real traditional food is quite surprising) with lots of very fresh fruit and vegetables, pasta and good barbecued meats, stews and fish! If an all day UK breakfast is your thing that is available too, in places, but it would be cheaper to buy a sun lamp and extra duvet and stay at home!!

The difficulties there are more for those who are residents. Try and stop me going again this year!

travelgran

We've already booked!

Magnolia

Same here - going early May to Crete - cannot wait

iaps

These articles might be helpful:
a little outdated but good to know
http://www.independent.co.uk/travel/news-and-advice/simon-calder-making-a-drachma-out-of-a-crisis-6988975.html?origin=internalSearch

informative
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/budgettravel/9056329/How-to-save-money-in-Greece-on-holiday.html#disqus_thread

worth reading
http://www.petersommer.com/blog/news/visit-greece/

melly1980

just wait a few weeks and you could buy the whole country for yourself.

Poster_girl

Thanks for the informative replies Ainsley1 and iaps.
Glad to hear that there is no reason not to book the trip .
@Ainsley1 - really looking forward to the Greek food, history, sun and beaches!
Magnolia and travelgran - I can't wait either though I think I will go in late summer so a while to go...

markwilkinson

Booked to go to Thassos about 4 weeks ago, can't wait to be back in Greece!

Caroline_a

Off for a 4-day long weekend to Athens next week... hopefully all will be well, but if I get stuck there.... well, another glass of wine, and enjoy the sunshine!