Greece and British Tourists; ABTA Travel Trends

An important market

ABTA Travel Trends Report (pdf)

Greece

"Political and economic turmoil has led to some negative headlines for Greece in the last twelve months, but Greece proved that it could ride out the turmoil and continued to draw in tourists in 2012 with great value holidays. The Greek authorities are determined to regain Greece’s position in the top five of the world’s tourist destinations, so 2013 will see initiatives promoting quality and value for visitors to the country. In 2013 tour operators will be offering travel to new destinations such as the islands of Kalymnos and Telendos. The most popular islands will remain Corfu, Crete and Rhodes but increasingly people are looking to resorts on the mainland such as the Peloponnese including the beautiful town of Napflion. Those looking for an interesting city break should consider Greece’s second city Thessaloniki. It has a waterside location, wide boulevards and squares and the most fashion conscious people in Greece, not to mention Byzantine buildings and some of the best bars and restaurants in the country. Greece remains a favourite with the jet set, with Brad Pitt, John Travolta and Robert de Niro all taking a holiday there in 2012".


Laws and customs – ‘Did you know’ facts and FCO Advice

• You should avoid demonstrations and protests and follow the advice given by local security authorities if you find yourself caught up in any. Violent incidents have occurred at and in the margins of such protests

• Greek law requires you to wear a crash helmet on a scooter, moped or motorcycle.

Quad bike riders are required to wear a full-face helmet (or non-full-face helmet plus goggles) under Greek law

• In order to comply with Greek law, you should ensure that you obtain a receipt for goods or services purchased. If you purchase pirate CDs or DVDs in Greece you could be imprisoned

• Visitors should expect regular strikes. These are sometimes called at short notice and can cause disruption to public transport in and out of Greece (including air travel and ports)

• A copy of your passport or other photographic ID which confirms British nationality should be carried at all times

• In the event of arrest in Greece, the trial and detention processes are different to those in the UK and can involve long-term pre-trial detention. Non-Greek nationals are rarely allowed out on bail in case they pose a flight risk

See also Yacht Taxes (Kathimerini)

British Invasion 2014 (Corfu Press)