Greece

Greece is a mountainous country best known for its friendly people, ancient mythology and beautiful coastlines and islands. The best time of year to visit is April to June and September when it is cooler and less crowded. Getting around to the sites of bustling Athens and out to the archaeological sites can be easier during these times and if visiting the islands and beaches you will find them less crowded.

Language

The official language is Greek, but tourist areas will usually speak some degree of English, German, Italian or French.

Currency

The Greek currency is the (€) = 100 cents. The most common paper currency in Greece comes in denominations of €500, €200, €50, €20, €10 and €5. Coins appear in denominations of €2 and €1. Coins also come in 50 cents, 20 cents, 10 cents, 5 cents, 2 cents and 1 cent.

Weather

Like the rest of the Mediterranean, Greece has a very warm climate. The stiff breezes tone down the hot, dry days in the north and costal areas. Athens is often so suffocatingly hot that tourists will need time to acclimatise.

Winters are mild, except in the south where it is fairly cold. The rainy season in Greece is from November to March.

Attractions

On the mainland, Athens is home to famous sites such as the Acropolis, with its Parthenon, Erechtheion, Ancient Theatre of Dionysos and Propylaia Gate; the Archeological Museum, The Temple of Zeus and many bustling streets and markets to wind your way through in this ancient city.

Mount Olmypus is in the north and the Peloponnese the to south, but many visitors cross the water to one of the many surrounding islands which offer anything from lively party resorts to lush, isolated island escapes.

Driving

• The Blood alcohol limit in Greece is 50 mg.
• You must carry a first aid kit, fire extinguisher and warning triangle.
• It is illegal to carry a can of petrol in a vehicle.
• It is illegal to use a horn at any time in a town apart unless used as a warning.
• A vehicle parked at night on a public road must have the rear red light on.
• Few petrol stations accept credit cards.
• Flashing headlights means 'move over, I'm coming through.’

Food and Drink

Greek food in restaurants and tavernas is usually fairly simple and rarely has sauces. Most cooking revolves around charcoal grilling and local olive oil. Specialities include: Dolmades - stuffed vine leaves; Moussaka - a casserole with eggplant, minced lamb, cinnamon, red wine and olive oil; Kebabs; Taramosalata - a dip made from fish roe, bread, onion, olive oil and lemon juice; Kalamari - squid deep fried in batter; Keftedes - spicy meatballs; and for dessert Baklavas - filo pastry filled with almonds and topped with honey, vanilla and sugar. Traditional drinks are Retsina, a wine made with the resin from pine needles and Ouzo, an aniseed clear spirit drunk on its own or with water.

Nightlife

Most large towns and tourist areas have bars and clubs, and ouzeris (traditional Greek bars). Regular concerts and other evening entertainment are found at the Odeion of Herodes in Attica. There are also a great number of casinos.

Shopping

Special purchases from Greece include lace from Skiros, silver from Ioannina, pottery from Sifnos and Skopelos, furs from Kastoria, flokati rugs from the Epirus region, leather and local alcohol.

If you wish to export antiques, you need a special permit from the Export Department of the Ministry of Culture, hence most ‘antiques’ are fake. Also, visitors from the EU can refund their VAT – around 18%

Tourist Information

www.gnto.grTel: (Enquiries & Information) 020 7495 9300 Fax: 020 7287 1369 Email: info@gnto.co.uk