9 Greece Travel Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Vacation
Dreaming of a getaway to Greece? Greece combines its sun kissed beaches, white washed villages, and crumbled ruins into an indescribable history and culture and natural Grecian wonder. This Mediterranean paradise has something for all kinds of travellers whether wandering through ancient temples or sailing across the Aegean Sea. Many take Greece Holiday Packages to make the most of your journey and to streamline the planning and guarantee a hassle free experience. However, even to the best plans of holiday the stupid mistakes can jeopardize. Much of what spoils your vacation is ignorance of common travel pitfalls due to travel timing and cultural mishaps. However, before you pack your bags and head over to this very famous destination, it is useful to know what you need to avoid there. Here are 9 common Greece travel mistakes and how to avoid them.
Here are the 9 Greece Travel Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Vacation
1. Underestimating the Weather
Greece is sunny all year round, many travelers think, but the weather is very different from season to season. Winters can be surprisingly cold and even the northern regions and mountainous areas can be cold, while summer is sweltering. Strong winds on the islands can make temperatures feel cooler than they are even in spring and fall.
2. Skipping the Mainland
The main island Greece is made up of is making a name for itself, not just the famous islands Santorini and Mykonos, but the mainland is rich in history filled with stunning sights. Ancient ruins in Athens, beautiful landscapes and landmarks in Meteora regions and Peloponnese are few of the things cities like Athens and Meteora regions can offer to one. It’s not just the islands you’re missing out on that’s where a more interesting and varied time should be spent in Greece.
3. Overpacking Your Itinerary
One of the things travelers have tried to cram into one trip are too many destinations, and that can lead to lacking opportunities and stress. Little Greece may be small for you to visit, however you need to spend time between islands and regions as far the ferry operates are concerned. It allows for more of a relaxing and soaking in the local atmosphere experience.
4. Not Learning Basic Greek Phrases
Although many Greeks speak English, learning a few basic Greek phrases will help you on your trip. Simple greetings of “Kalimera” (Good morning), or “Efharisto” (Thank you) would go a long way to reach the locals. Respecting their culture can do so much to prove respect and helps you to navigate further through less touristy, more difficult to understand places.
5. Visiting Only in Peak Season
The summer months, especially July and August, are the busiest and most expensive time to travel to Greece. Being overrun with people at popular tourist sites makes it less enjoyable at its full experience. Visiting during the shoulder seasons, when May, June, and September are not busy periods, is a good idea, as you will have pleasant weather without too many crowds as you still get cheaper accommodations and more trip amenities.
6. Not obeying Local Customs and Dress Codes
When going to religious sites like monasteries or churches, it is necessary to wear modest attire. Having basic understandings of, and following these dress codes, will result not only in showing respectful behaviour towards others, but also in the enrichment of your cultural contact and interaction with the locals.
7. Relying Solely on Credit Cards
Although credit cards are widespread in major cities and tourist places, in some areas, away from the tourist places or small establishments, cash is king. It is for this reason that many taxis and tavernas are reluctant to accept any other form of payment than cash, and ATM withdrawals can be expensive or unavailable in peak seasons. You should have some euros handy to avoid inconvenience and extra costs.
8. Not Booking Ferry Tickets in Advance
As ferries are a popular and much needed form of transport when island hopping, it can be very hard to book them during peak season as they can sell out very quickly. This also means that you will face delays or alter your travel plans. In order to avoid this, it is best to book ferry tickets in advance, especially during summer when there is high demand, to make the trip between islands smoother.
9. Overlooking Travel Insurance
If you require travel insurance, then you often laterally skim the line during trip preparation however it is often essential for peace of mind while you are away. If you have delays on a flight, lost luggage, or a medical emergency, travel insurance will protect you from surprising costs. Without it, your vacation can be disrupted by unexpected mishaps and you will have to spend extra money to compensate. Small investment in insurance is worth the small headache later.
Conclusion:
Greece is a place where you will have unforgettable moments, but a little preparation can make sure these moments are joyful and not frustrating. Avoid common travel mistakes by staying aware of these issues and can enjoy easier travel with local customs and maximizing your time bush on the islands. A planned trip will help you really enjoy Greece’s culture and landscape, and its cuisine.
Cruise holidays give you even more convenience in your journey, so if you want, go exploring Greece the way they have it all ready for you by covering everything on Greece Tour Packages that includes guided tours, preset itineraries and have the comfort of
accommodations all arranged for you. Before you finalize your travel plans, never forget to check Greece visa requirements on hand, so that you don’t have to worry about any hindrance when entering the country. Your Greek adventure does not have to be nightmare, as long as you take the right approach.
