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Greek island mosquitoes

I keep hearing that mosquitoes are a problem on the Greek islands. Are they everywhere or just certain places? Also, is mosquito repellent not available to purchase in Greece?

Posted by
3094 posts

There are over 150 islands to visit in Greece, but since it seems you're planning to go to the Cyclades, most of the Cyclades islands are quite dry, even arid. Islands like Santorini don't have any natural water sources, no rivers, lakes, or dams, so mosquitoes are quite rare.
In over 30 years of traveling the Greek islands, I've never had any problems with mosquitoes and I've never heard anyone complain about them. I must have been in the wrong place at the wrong times and met the wrong people.

Mosquito repellents are available in pharmacies and supermarkets, as they are everywhere in Europe.

In my opinion, you should stop reading and listening to unreliable sources.

Posted by
3596 posts

Nancy. it's easier to give good advice when inquirers give iimportant information. WHEN do you plan to go? It really matter. I have usually visited Greek islands from Mid-May thru Mid June, and almost never had mosquito bites. However, you do see (espcially on Trip Advisor) lots of British contributionos about mosquitoes, also wasps ... and checking dates, its most often about July onward.

Also, in certain "spots" on a given island, mosquitoes might be found in damp surroundings, due to nearby ponds or swamps. For example on my 1st visit to Crete, nary a skeeter.... and no screens on any windows On my 2nd visit, my friend & I stopped for a night in the village of Georgiopolis, and we noticed all windows were screened,. We learned why -- it's right next to a trickling stream, lots of greenery -- and no big onshore breeze to discourage Mr Sting.

As for repellents, theyre around, but if you have a fave. pack it. Only precaution I used, on breezy islands in May-June is, beware of lit rooms, they attract mosquitoes & moths. During day, sure, have wndows & shutters open/ As you leave for dinner, while sun's still bright. close windows AND Shutters. Coming in, late, get all ready for bed, douse lights, THEN open windows/shutters. Works for me.

Posted by
3094 posts

Mosquitoes are a minor problem. I can give you a few other concerns you might hear or read about, but which I recommend you ignore if you go to Greece.

Here are some examples:

Yesterday, a 4.1 magnitude earthquake struck in Crete near Hania.

10 days ago, a magnitude 4 earthquake struck Evia, its impact was felt in the Athens area.

On August 7, a magnitude 4.7 earthquake struck Messinia, with the epicenter located about 20 kilometers from Kalamata. The tremor was widely felt in the Peloponnese.

Not to mention Santorini, which experienced thousands of earthquakes in February, prompting mass evacuations.

Last week, in Patra, Greece's third-largest city, fires burned unchecked on the outskirts, urging residents to move toward the center.

Ten days ago, a severe storm forced all ferries to remain docked at the ports for two days due to gale-force winds blowing in the Aegean Sea. This sailing ban due to gale-force winds also occurred in late June of this year.

Several hikers have died this year on the Greek islands, last year on the island of Sikinos two French lady hikers disappeared and have still not been found. Another American tourist who went hiking in Amorgos is still missing

In late March, the islands of Mykonos and Paros experienced severe flooding, with streets turning into torrents.
Both Greek islands were declared a state of emergency. Crete was also affected.

I've often experienced wildfires in the Greek islands.

This year in early June, I was in the Dodecanese Islands. In five days, I received two tsunami and earthquake alerts on my phone.

Two years ago, I arrived in Athens during a violent storm, the streets of the neighborhood where I stayed were flooded for hours.

More or less funny, 3 or 4 years ago, in Milos, I suffered from sunstroke which made me lose my sense of balance for several days, as if I were drunk. :)

Posted by
3596 posts

Nancy, thanks are welcome, but you still haven't told us helpers when you plan to be in greece. good to know.