Greece is not only making it to the headlines for being a financial disaster, but also as the new holiday hotspot. Yes, people are flocking to Greece.
Can you blame them? One would probably end up spending half of what one would have spent on a trip to Greece some other time.
Consider this — according to reports, you can now holiday for a week on the Greek island of Thassos for just £384 (Rs 38,000) per person, instead of the earlier £557 (Rs 55,000), a price drop of 45%.
There’s more. Ionian Island Holidays, a travel firm, offers a week’s stay in a splendid 1-BHK apartment in Corfu for just £405 (Rs 40,000) as compared to the earlier £809 (Rs 80,000).
So, what are you waiting for? Pack those bags already. But before you head Greece-wards, here are 5 super helpful things to keep in mind.
Show Me the Money
Make sure you carry plenty of cash. Why? Because ATMs in Greece are running dry, or have long queues and many restaurants and shops have now refused to accept debit cards and credit cards. If you don’t have cash, all those scaled-down prices are gonna be of no use. So before heading to Greece, head to the bank.
Pocketmaar!
Be aware of pickpockets and thieves, who will be out there ready to dig deep into your Euro-filled pockets. Carry only as much cash as you need with you, or equally distribute it among family and friends. And if you’re not in a charitable mood, then it’s best to leave your cash in a hotel safe.
Cheap Deals, or No Deals
In all probability, the shops in Greece would be closed for obvious reasons. But if they aren’t, shopping would be extremely cheap. So, chances are the cash you carry might just return safely to your bank account.
Hamari Maange...
Riots and dharnas are not a part of Greek culture. If you’re highly influenced by our very own desi dharnas, you might end up going to Syntagma Square in Athens — where, by the way, many of the protest take place.
No Stepping Back
So you planned your trip, are all set to leave for Greece, but a situation arises wherein you might have to cancel your trip. Sorry folks, you are not getting your money back. So make bookings if you are super sure.
If you do cancel your trip it will be subject to the terms of the deal, and you stand to lose money.
— An UK Travel Agent, The Guardian
Bon voyage!
(Disclaimer: GBP to INR conversion as per the rates on July, 7, 2015).
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