These measures can be imposed suddenly and may include: Certain European Union countries might not recognize or accept proof of vaccination issued by Canadian provinces and territories for entry or to be exempt from quarantine requirements. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. document.getElementById("ak_js_1").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. You can hop there on a bus or a taxi and be in Patras in no time! In my opinion Nafpaktos is so worth it. Pack atravel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres. Strikes and pressure tactics occur regularly, particularly in key sectors such as transport and public health services. You may also consider pre-treating clothing and travel gear with insecticides and sleeping under an insecticide-treated bednet. That said, we recommend having travel insurance. Weather conditions and strong winds can lead to cancellations or significant delays. The same applies to other popular islands, such as Mykonos, Rhodes, and Crete. That said, in current times, a private car is the safest way of moving around. When it comes to hotels, Greece excels again. From Patras you can take a boat to Zakynthos, Cephalonia, Lefkada or Corfu. While the Government of Canada issues passports with an X gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. The flu season usually runs from November to April in the northern hemisphere, between April and October in the southern hemisphere and year round in the tropics.

My first time in Europe from the United States. However, we are lucky to live in Athens, close to some of the worlds nicest beaches and islands. Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave the Schengen area. Canadian citizens do not need a visa for travel to countries within the Schengen area. Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel. These strikes can disrupt travel and public services. Always be vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. First and foremost, an online analysis will tell you that Greece is amongst the countries that best dealt with the situation; fewer cases and deaths than other countries in Europe. Tourism in Greece is essential, and 2022 is no exception. Everyone that wanted to visit Santorini but couldnt take the crowds should go now.

Though the islands get most of the attention, there are outstanding sites close to Athens too. 2022 Happy Frog Travels - WordPress Theme by Kadence WP. You may need to obtain a translation, a notarization, an authentication, or the legalization of the document. I am driving a car (I dont like them eitherdo not have one until end of the month). Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)is an infectious viral disease. The currency of Greece is the euro (EUR). Latest updates: The Health section was updated - travel health information (Public Health Agency of Canada). There is a limited risk of malaria in this country. Many beaches in Greece are supervised and enforce excellent safety procedures. Gear up for Greece with a look at its greatest hits: things the country, Joe Minihane, Julia Buckley, Elinda Labropoulou and Barry Neild contributed to this report, There's a perfect beach for every week of the year. Thats how they greet you: geia, which means health! Learn more on what you can do toprevent tick-borne encephalitis (TBE)? Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Its popular resorts are perfect for partying during the summer, but there's plenty of space to get away from the crowds, and outside of summer season you'll often find yourself the only tourist around. This wind may bring high waves, strong currents and may disrupt transportation. The Health section was updated - travel health information (Public Health Agency of Canada). It includessums in: This does not apply if you are travelling within the European Union or in transit to a non-EU country. Note that EU and EFTA citizens can enter with a valid ID. Now its our chance to do so in summer, and explore its beaches. Outdoor activities, such as hiking, can be dangerous if unprepared. You can hear live Greek music in the streets of Plaka and Monastiraki. Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day periodBusiness visa: not required for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day periodWork visa: requiredStudent visa: required. Terrorist attacks could occur at any time. Greeks value health and good living above all things. Hi!

Major earthquakes could occur and can cause significant damage. The boats didnt even move that much! You can also take the train to several beaches, Patras and the gorgeous city of Nafpaktos. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'happyfrogtravels_com-box-4','ezslot_2',124,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-happyfrogtravels_com-box-4-0')};For those of us that live in Greece, this didnt surprise us. I have been in Greece since June 1. Granted, the best way to stay safe is to limit traveling as much as possible. Another option is the marvelous theater in Epidaurus, 2 hours from Athens. That said, we do recommend avoiding July and August in the most popular islands. Some infections found in Southern Europe, likerabies, can be shared between humans and animals. The situation could disrupt your travel plans. Required fields are marked *. I am happy you described a few places to visit outside of Athens, as I am going to explore them before I leave Greece on July 5. Be prepared. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.. When it comes to beaches, the ones in Chalkidiki have nothing to envy from the Greek islands. IMPORTANT:The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk. Some of these vaccines include: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others. Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection. It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). Make sure to carry some money if you plan on visiting small islands and remote regions. Organized groups of thieves often use distraction techniques and are particularly active: Violent crime, such as attacks committed by far-right extremists against individuals belonging to ethnic, religious or political minorities are uncommon, but do occur. Confirm the rate before departure.

Learn how your comment data is processed. Or even better: take a taxi, a ferry and another taxi to Nafpaktos. However, tidal changes and strong winds can cause hazardous currents and riptides. Local police may ask to see your identification at any time. There is no risk of yellow fever in this country. Remember towash your handsoften and practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette to avoid colds, thefluand other illnesses. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally. Like everywhere else in Europe, the last two years were hard for Athens and Greece as a whole. Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. A vaccine against TBE does exist but is only available in countries where the disease is present. You have every right to be worried about the whole virus mess. Most governments have implemented special entry and exit restrictions and requirements for their territory due to COVID-19. Be sure that yourroutine vaccines, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date regardless of your travel destination. All of us history and literature fans love Greek mythology, ancient poems, and contemporary books. Dont accept rides from strangers or casual acquaintances. Having tackled the virus successfully, we are happy to report that its safe to travel to Greece in 2022. If.

As of May 1, the country removed any need to show proof of Covid vaccination or recovery to enter the country. See a health care provider or visit a travel health clinic preferably six weeks before you travel to discuss your options. If you are a victim of a crime, go to the nearest police station to report it. We have obtained the information on this page from the Greek authorities.

Trains are our favorite means of transportation, so weve taken the one that goes to the nearby city of Chalcis. Take normal security precautions in Greece. Fortunately, we were able to walk outside and exercise every day. As we all know, a new virus has messed up our lives.

Both the government and the Greeks reacted on time and efficiently the past two years. Athens has a modern metro system. for at least 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave the Schengen area. This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides. Health care is adequate, but varies throughout the country. If you plan on entering Greece by sea on your boat or a rented boat of a total length of over 7 metres, you must pay the Recreational and Daily Tour Cruise Ships fee (TEPAI). If you travel to Greece during this period: Forest and maquis fires are common between July and August, particularly in the Peloponnese, Central Greece and the northern areas of Athens. Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Health officials caution that staying home is the best way to stem transmission until you're fully vaccinated. Seasonal influenza occurs worldwide. We use Ferryhopper to check prices and buy our ferry tickets across Greece. You should not travel to this country, territory or region. You should not depend on the Government of Canada for assistance to change your travel plans. Greek authorities placed restrictions ahead of time and saved a lot of lives. Crowded conditions can increase your risk of certain illnesses. For destination entry and exit requirements, including for COVID-19 vaccination requirements, please check theEntry/exit requirements section. Demonstrations take place regularly, particularly in Athens and Thessaloniki. Protect yourself from mosquito bites. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. Coral, urchin, jellyfish and other aquatic life found along reefs can poison, sting or cause infection if touched or stepped on. Thinking of Delphi, Meteora, Nafplio, and will look at map for Nafpaktos and Patros to see if makes sense. I will be happy to show you around!cheers,Milos, Your email address will not be published. I am sure youve all heard about Greek philosophers like Plato, Socrates, and Aristotle.

if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'happyfrogtravels_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_8',131,'0','0'])};if(typeof __ez_fad_position!='undefined'){__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-happyfrogtravels_com-large-mobile-banner-2-0')};One of the things that makes Greece safe is the number of open-air terraces. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. You can take any of its buses, trains, planes, and ferries. You can contact the tourism police 24/7 anywhere in Greece by dialling the 1571 or the regular police at 100. Originally from Belgrade, I live between Barcelona and Athens, and travel as much as I can. Shops, bars, restaurants, travel companies, and hotels are currently following protocols to safeguard their employees and guests. We stayed in several hotels last summer and felt safe at all times. Join us on a 12-month journey to see them all, Mykonos as the famous party island gears up for summer. Below is information on what to know if you still plan to travel, last updated on June 28. Vaccination should be considered for those who may be exposed to ticks during outdoor activities. Drivers often drive at excessive speeds and are reckless. Greece is a Schengen area country. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving. Greece has seen 3,624,556 Covid cases and a total of 30,190 deaths as of June 28. Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally. Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays. Everything is spotless! However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination. If you have not completed a COVID-19 vaccine series, you should continue to avoid non-essential travel to all destinations. Things to Know before Traveling to Greece, Incredible Islands a Short Boat Ride Away. When will you ever have the chance to enjoy paradise in summer and with few people? Is Athens Worth Visiting? The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. This must be done online prior to arrival. Greece attracts millions of visitors each year looking for a sunny seaside escape, or a history-focused trip exploring its long and storied past. I am happy you liked our post and I am glad you chose Greece for your first trip to Europe. Entry requirements to European Union countries, Travel restrictions and health requirements, potential entry requirements related to yellow fever, nearest Government of Canada office abroad, Information to visitors concerning drones, List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention, International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents, Canadian embassies and consulates by destination, Recreational and Daily Tour Cruise Ships fee, be sure to get vaccinated, and complete any additional recommended doses, at least 14 days before your departure, review the travel health notice for COVID-19 and International Travel, curfews, movement restrictions, or lockdowns, required proof of vaccination or a COVID-19 test result to access public and private services and spaces, on public transportation, including metro and trains to and from Athens International Airport, at airports, bus and railway stations including Larissa and Peloponnese stations in Athens, ensure that your belongings, including your passport, are secure at all times, dont keep your passport and other types of ID at the same place and carry a photocopy rather than the original, avoid carrying large sums of cash or unnecessary valuables, pay attention to your surroundings, particularly in crowded and tourist areas, be wary of unsolicited offers or advice from strangers, avoid isolated areas, parks and down-market bars and restaurants, especially after dark, seek medical assistance, whether or not you appear to have been physically harmed, contact the local police immediately and ensure they file a report, inform consular officials at the nearest Canadian embassy or consulate, pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others, use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business, avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature, cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN, check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements, airports and other transportation hubs and networks, public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners, foreign commercial and diplomatic interests, ethnic, religious and migrants centers and organizations, the commemoration of the Athens Polytechnic uprising of 1973 on November 17, the commemoration of the riots of 2008 on December 6, Syntagma Square, in front of the Greek Parliament, the National Technical University complex on Patision Avenue, Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place, Follow the instructions of local authorities, Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations, Consult local media to be aware of strikes that may affect your stay or travel plans, In the event of a transport strike, plan extra time to get to your destination, Ask local authorities about the presence of dangerous species and immediately seek medical assistance if you get hurt, Wear reef shoes to protect yourself against stone and coral cuts or urchin stings, Keep a safe distance from boats and restricted areas, Avoid visiting beaches or coastal areas during periods of severe weather warnings, Look out for signs warning of cliff erosion and falling rocks, Dont dive into unknown waters, as hidden rocks or shallow depths can cause serious injury or death, Exercise caution and follow the advice of the local authorities, know the capacity of your boat and dont exceed it, follow safe practices for all activities on the water, keep a safe distance from areas reserved for certain activities such as snorkeling, carry a VHF marine radio that will generate your position in case of emergency, never do so alone, and do not part with your hiking companions, obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be before setting out, buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation, ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity, ensure that youre adequately equipped and bring sufficient water, stay informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard, be aware of the presence of dangerous species such as snakes, inform a family member or friend of your itinerary, dial 112 from a cellphone for any emergency, Reduce your speed on rough and uneven terrain, In the event of an accident, wait for police to arrive, Pay attention to pre-departure notices from your carrier, Always reconfirm departure schedule before heading to the port, mandatory proof of vaccination or COVID-19 testing, suspensions or reductions of international transportation options, verify if the local authorities of both your current location and destinations have implemented any restrictions or requirements related to this situation, consider even your transit points, as there are transit rules in place in many destinations, monitor the media for the latest information, reconfirm the requirements with your airline or tour operator. Tick-borne encephalitisis present in some areas of this country. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)andHIVare spread through blood and bodily fluids; practise safer sex. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air. Greece has strict laws regarding the possession and use of weapons and items that may be used as weapons, such as: To avoid any difficulties, make sure you: While visiting archaeological sites and monuments: Greek Cultural Heritage law - Hellenic Society for Law and Archaeology. Weather forecast and alerts - Hellenic National Meteorological Service. Winter in Athens is a bit more quiet, but places are open. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. Carrying an individual in an irregular migration situation in your vehicle, even without your knowledge, is a criminal offence. We also went to Syros, Tinos and Paros, slightly further away. Most places in Greece are now open, with unrestricted access to most venues including restaurants, bars, museums and theaters. The content on this page is provided for information only. Though we all love to travel, arent we all a bit scared? However, visa-free travel only applies to stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Thus, sipping your cocktail and tasting delicious moussaka on a lovely terrace is fantastic and healthy. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities. We even took our bikes on the train and biked from the train station to our hotels. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements. Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another countrys judicial affairs. If youre travelling near an active volcano or are practising volcano tourism: Seasonal storms and heavy rains can cause severe flooding and landslides particularly during the spring and winter months. Thessaloniki is close to Promachonas and Evzoni, two main border crossings. Traveling on a ferry to the wonderful islands of Greece is pretty safe.