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Are macro economic issues impacting your travel plans to Greece?

Am I alone in my worries about travel to Greece this year? My ultimate destination is Sofia, BG, for the RS Tour in late June,, and was considering a short stop-over visit (5-7 days) to Crete that would fit in nicely prior to Sofia. Other pre-tour options abound but none are as attractive as Crete; and I've yet to make any travel reservations (especially, airline) but time marches on and it's getting to be time to book flights, etc.
My biggest concern is air travel in and out of ATH; if flights are disrupted I've few options in getting to Sofia from Crete (via Athens).
Looking forward to your thoughts.

Posted by
3122 posts

Doom-sayers cry, "The sky is falling!" Pollyannas shrug and say, "Don't worry, be happy!" There's just no way anyone can predict the future. It ultimately comes down to this: Either you're willing to "take a chance" or you're not. Strikes in Greece are normally announced 24-48 hours in advance, which gives you a chance to adapt. This website is worth your time to read, as well as for updates on potential strikes: http://livingingreece.gr/strikes

Posted by
1157 posts

Strikes are not as numerous as they were in the period from 2010-2012. Air traffic controllers can not strike. It is illegal and even though they have called for strikes the Greek Courts said "NO!" and they didn't strike. The worst that could happen is the taxis, buses and ferry workers strike but as Lee stated they are announced well in advance so you can make arrangements or just stay where you are for the day. We have been going to Greece every year since 2010 and have NEVER had any problems with strikes, protests, demonstrations of any violence whatsoever. I think you may have more to worry about with non-Greek airlines who like to strike and get away with it such as Lufthansa and Air France. We are not so worried about Greece that we are already booked for another trip this Oct. 2015. See you in Greece!

Posted by
2186 posts

There are no guarantees, but I'm in the "go for it" category. Greece is one of those countries that is dependent on tourists, so they want us to have a good experience and keep coming back. We've had more trouble with specific airline strikes that we didn't see coming when we booked our tickets than we've had with anything else. We do try to make sure we've scheduled to arrive at least a day ahead of our tour to try and build in time for the unexpected.

Posted by
1005 posts

There won't be any major demonstrations for a while because the people supporting the demonstrators are now in control of the government. I agree that there will probably be a deal. Greece is a bargain right now, so I would go for it. I loved Crete when I was there many years ago--less of a tourist zoo than Mykonos or Santorini. It's so big that it's relatively easy to get away from the crowds. Hoave fun.

Posted by
5835 posts

My biggest concern is air travel in and out of ATH; if flights are disrupted I've few options....

It's good to be retired where time isn't money. Beyond Greek (or other) work actions disrupting the best made plans things do happen including acts of God - snow storms, fog, volcanoes. And there's mechanical problems including flat tire on the way to the airport, and crew staffing problems like weather delays causing the crew to exceed hours. If you want to worry there's a lot you can worry about.

If I am on a must be there by (fill in DATE) trip, if possible I like to arrive a couple of days early to cushion my schedule. The bonus is time zone adjusted time and a chance to see my gateway city on a relaxed pace. And if my checked gear is delayed, a couple of extra days can only help.

Posted by
931 posts

Go and have fun! Don't over think this, but "be prepared". Arrive early. Buy trip insurance! ( I like the broker Squaremouth.com)

And Crete is fantastic! Get a rental car and explore!

Posted by
1 posts

I'm thinking about Greece this year too, probably in September. Although I can deal with (and sympathize with) strikes, I'm concerned with what happens if Greek banks literally run out of money. I don't carry a lot of cash, and so rely on ATMs, but if there's no money, there's no money -- for me or for ordinary people on the streets. And at that point things get really serious. Given what happening right now (late March), it looks like a distinct possibility. As much as I want to see Greece again and support the Greeks, it looks like this might be a year for another country. Any thoughts anyone?

Posted by
10189 posts

If the banks were to run out of money, the U.S. Embassy or Consulate would help you.