Backpacking in Greece

Iona_Penny

My 18yr old son and two friends are planning to go to Greece for 3 weeks in August. They plan to stay in a youth hostel in Athens for 3 nights and then catch a ferry to Crete and beyond!!

I have got him insurance but do not know how to advise him as this is beyond my experience. He has an HSBC mastercard and so I think he will be able to draw cash from machines if they are available (presumably only in busy towns) and he will take a sum of cash.(how much do you think? ) He does not have a credit card.

Any tips for the travel, what he needs etc, what to avoid and the money issue greatly received.

saveapenny

Tell him to avoid getting into big and busy ports late at night.
We were told by a local guy in Crete that it the worst time for getting riped off.
Unless he wants a clubbing type holiday avoid big islands all together they take too long to see and with only 3 weeks to get round there are better islands .
There are loads of ferrry lines on the net now it might tbe worth them doing a rough plan of the islands they want to see http://www.greekferries.gr/

MrSmartprice

The book he needs is "Greek Island Hopping" published by Thomas Cook. It should be read before going, as it is invaluable in planning your itinerary. The best few quid you will ever spend if you go to Greece as an independent traveller.

It explains how the ferry system works, where they run from and to, and which boats to avoid. (They run in lines like the spokes of a wheel.) It also gives plenty of info on Athens and the mainland ports, including the pitfalls. You will find maps of every island and port town, and how to arrange your accommodation when you arrive. Also useful tips such as avoiding weekend (esp Sunday) ferries when they can be packed with locals.

We have been twice island hopping, and it's great fun. I would never revert to packages to Greece again. You meet some fantastic people, and see wonderful places. And even the smaller islands tend to have cash machines these days. The best way to access cash is by using a Nationwide Debit card, so there are no hidden charges.