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Vangelis

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Hi fellow travellers, I have not been able to get back to Greece for a few years due to COVID. The Australian borders are still closed but I'm hoping I will be able to travel back to Greece in 2022 for the summer. In preparation, I have fully vaccinated and have received my COVID-19 Certificate. The certificate has my name, date of birth, document number, healthcare identification number and date of my vaccinations, what type of vaccination I had (AstraZeneca for me) and a statement that I have had the full course of vaccination doses (all in english). However, I see on the news that Greeks have a vaccination certificate with a QR code but my certificate doesn't have that.

Does anyone know if my certificate will be valid for travel into Greece and for use at public events and restaurants? Has anyone travelled to Greece with a similar certificate and what was your experience? I am getting a bit anxious about this as I want to travel next year and don't want any issues when I get to Greece. Any information would be appreciated.
 
Thanks so much for your question!

I would recommend that you perhaps ask your local Greek consulate this question.

We have heard there are not any issues with people that are vaccinated traveling from the United States and Canada to Greece, but things do rapidly change, so doubling checking might help.

Thanks again & hope you get back to Greece soon!! 🇬🇷
 
Just for completion and to let all Australian Greek potential travelers to Greece next year know, our vaccination certificate is compliant with Greece's requirements (thanks to @blopez34 for providing the link to https://www.aia.gr/en/traveler/travellers-info/faq-for-covid19):

Additionally, until 19.08.21, all passengers regardless of nationality must meet one of the following conditions:


  • to have completed the vaccination for COVID-19 at least fourteen days (14) before the scheduled arrival and present a vaccination certificate in Greek, English, French, German, Spanish, Italian or Russian, issued by a public authority in accordance with the relevant legislation. The vaccination certificate must include the name of the person, the type of vaccine given, the number of doses & inoculation dates.

  • display a negative molecular test result for COVID-19 (PCR) performed within the last seventy-two (72) hours before the scheduled arrival or a negative Rapid Antigen test result performed up to 48 hours before the scheduled flight. The test result must be issued by a certified diagnostic center in Greek, English, French, German, Spanish, Italian or Russian and must include the name of the person as registered in the passport.

  • To present proof of recovery from Covid-19, supported by test result (PCR or Rapid Antigen test). The certificate of recovery is issued thirty (30) days after the 1st positive diagnosis & is valid up to 180 days there on. The 1st positive diagnosis must originate either from a public authority in accordance with the relevant legislation or from reference laboratories of the country of origin or transit, public or private, provided that they have been certified by the competent national certification of the country. The certificate is issued either in Greek, English, French, German, Spanish, Italian or Russian & includes the name of the person as registered in the identity card or passport.

  • to present their EU digital Covid certificate, issued according to EU requirements in digital or paper form. This should include information regarding vaccination, or the last result of Covid-19 test or proof of recovery from Covid-19 within the accepted time frame.
 
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I travelled to Greece this year and no restaurants were asking for QR codes or anything like that. But that's also because we ate almost exclusively outside. One hotel did ask for my vaccination but mine didn't have a QR code either, and they didn't have a problem with that
 
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Greek Islands Food Tour?

I am a foodie and I love to cook. Does anyone know of any food tour situations that I can do in the islands, or maybe island hopping?

I am in the midst of planning an exciting adventure to Greece and am particularly interested in experiencing the country through its cuisine. I've heard that island hopping offers not just stunning views but also a taste of local flavors that differ from island to island.

With so many beautiful islands, from the renowned Santorini to the charming Skopelos, I'm looking for recommendations on food tours or culinary experiences that are part of island hopping packages. Any recommendations you may have would be great!

Is Marathon a good day trip from Athens?

I've been planning an itinerary for my upcoming trip to Athens, and I've always been fascinated by the historical significance of Marathon. Considering its role in ancient history and the famous battle that took place there, it seems like a place that might be worth a visit.

However, I'm on the fence about dedicating a whole day trip to Marathon. From what I understand, it isn’t too far from Athens, but I'm trying to weigh up whether the experience is worthy compared to spending that time exploring more within the city itself.

Has anyone made the day trip to Marathon from Athens? Was it an enriching experience, and what are the can't-miss sights? Is the archeological site/museum there engaging enough for a history buff? Also, how about the logistics – is it easy to get to by public transport, or would you suggest renting a car or going with a tour?

I am just trying to decide if it's worth it, or if I should plan to stay overnight. Thanks!


marathon-greece.jpg

Question about scuba diving in Greece

I'm currently planning a trip to Greece, a destination that has long been on my bucket list, not just for its history and cuisine, but especially for the scuba diving experiences it offers. I've heard that Greece boasts some incredible underwater landscapes, from vibrant marine life to fascinating wrecks.

Given the vastness of Greece's coastline, I thought I would try to see the country in a different way.

Let's say I want to go scuba diving in a particular island. How do I go about doing it?

Tips for Traveling to Greece on a Budget

Traveling to Greece is a dream for many, conjuring images of stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and vibrant Mediterranean culture. However, experiencing the wonders Greece has to offer doesn’t have to break the bank. Let's face it - it can be expensive to get there - especially if you are traveling from outside of Europe and during peak season. Keeping these tips in mind, though, can help you cut costs.

1. Travel During the Off-Peak Season

One of the best ways to save money while traveling to Greece is by going during the off-peak season, which is typically from October to April. Not only will you benefit from lower prices in flights and accommodations, but you'll also escape the heavy tourist crowds, allowing for a more authentic experience of Greece's beauty and culture.

2. Opt for Lesser-Known Destinations

While Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini are must-visit destinations, Greece is filled with hidden gems that are often overlooked. Consider visiting the Peloponnese region, Meteora, or even the northern part of the country, like Thessaloniki and the Chalkidiki Peninsula. These areas offer breathtaking views, historical sites, and genuine interactions with local culture at a fraction of the cost.

3. Use Public Transportation

Greece’s public transportation system is both efficient and affordable. Ferries can take you between islands at a good rate, especially if you book in advance. On land, buses and trains connect major cities and regions. Utilizing these options instead of renting a car or taking flights can significantly reduce your travel costs.

4. Savor Local Eats

Another great way to save while indulging in the richness of Greek culture is through its cuisine. Avoid tourist traps and opt for where the locals eat. Tavernas and street food vendors offer delicious and authentic Greek food for much less than restaurants in high-traffic tourist areas. Don’t skip on trying the gyros, souvlaki, and the myriad of seafood options.

5. Stay in Budget Accommodations

Greece offers a wide array of budget-friendly accommodations, ranging from hostels to budget hotels and Airbnb listings. Booking in advance can secure you a better deal, especially if traveling during the peak season. Consider staying in a location slightly off the beaten path; you might discover a quaint neighborhood or a breathtaking beach that’s not swarmed by tourists.

Traveling to Greece on a budget is more than feasible with a bit of planning and some savvy travel hacks. By following these tips, you can immerse yourself in the rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality Greece is renowned for, all while keeping your expenses in check. Remember, the essence of travel is not in how much you spend, but in the experiences you gather and the memories you create.

Last-minute travel tips in Greece

I love to travel to Greece and I do so whenever I can. There's an art to it, though, and I am never really going into it "blind". It's a good idea to start by thinking generally about where you might want to go.

Athens is usually the starting point for most travelers, with its iconic Acropolis offering panoramic views and a history lesson all in one spot. If you're a beach lover, head towards the Cyclades for stunning beaches and the classic, postcard-worthy Santorini sunsets. Or, if it's history you're after, the ruins of Delphi or the ancient city of Mycenae will surely captivate you.

Then, we need to figure out how to get where we want to go. For island hopping, the ferries are an experience in themselves – though if you're time-strapped, consider a local flight to get you to the major islands quickly. On the mainland, a mix of car rentals and public transport can be efficient and economical, especially when visiting sites off the tourist map. Keep an eye on the schedules and book in advance if possible to save time.

Sometimes I rent a car, to be honest it's the easiest for me.

The rest of the details tend to sort themselves out. For example, you can book your lodging as you go along, especially off-peak.
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