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Travel Tips to European countries: Greece
About the region
As one of the earliest civilizations known to human kind Greece is a country with a rich history, heritage and culture. It's where once ruled the Byzantine Empire and also great Ottoman Empire. It is also considered that as the birthplace of democracy. Athens is the capital of Greece. The Olympic Games were originated in Greece. Not only that, it was the world center of Western philosophy, the political science, astronomy, mathematics, major scientific studies and what not. It is also known as a Mediterranean country as the Mediterranean Sea in the south. It is a popular destination for world tourists in that region known for its beautiful beaches, history and charming villages to reach. The Greek islands are one of the most wonderful places to be explored by cruise ship or yacht. The trip of Greece will definitely be one of the most memorable to remember in your life.
Population and languages
The population of Greece is around 11 million and the official language spoken is Greek. The popular languages are English and French.
Electricity
The voltage is 220 V and frequency is 50 Hz plug types used are round pin with attachment, round pin with ground, round pin and socket with earth and men "Schuko plug and the receptacle with side grounding contacts.
Geographic Location
Located in Southern Europe bordering the Aegean Sea, the Ionian Sea and the Mediterranean Sea between Albania and Turkey. It is located on the south side of the Balkan Peninsula. Also bordered by Bulgaria and Macedonia, in the southeast.
Climate
It has three different words, climate of the Alps, the Mediterranean and temperate winters soft and wet and hot as well, and dry summers due to Mediterranean affect. Alpine system is seen in mountainous regions. The temperate climate is near border along Macedonia. Athens has both temperate and Mediterranean climate.
Local Customs
Greece is a place with a strong background history and culture. There are different traditions and customs in different parts of Greece. The launch back of the hand is considered a negative gesture here in Greece. Casual dress can be used most often. Smoking is prohibited in public transport services and public buildings. Tipping 12 to 1 per cent is usual in restaurants, hotels and taxis.
Attractions
* The Olympic Games in Athens (the site of the historic 2004 Olympic Games)
* Mardi Gras celebrations in February
* The Parthenon in Athens
* Skiing in the mountains between October and March Arahova
* Easter Celebrations
* White Tower Thessaloniki and country of rich Byzantine culture
* The south of Corinth
* The beaches of Lesvos
* The wine vineyards in the field
* The islands of the Aegean Sea near the Sea
* The nature preserve in Alonissos (Sporades Marine Park)
Chozoviotissa * The famous, Moni Panagia, a Byzantine monastery in Amorgos
Travel
By Air – The national airline of Greece is Olympic Airlines. Many popular companies such as British Airways and Delta Airlines operate daily flights from Athens. The biggest airport is newly constructed Athens International Airport is located about 17 miles northeast of the city. The other international airports Greece are Heraklion (Crete), Thessaloniki (Macedonia) and Corfu (Kerkira).
By Sea – The popular Greek ports include Corfu, Heraklion, Igoumenitsa, Patras, Piraeus (Athens), Rhodes, Thessaloniki and Volos. Shipping and ferry boats lines link these ports with Italy, Croatia, Cyprus, Russia and Turkey. Some of the cruises popular operating in Greece are Celebrity Cruises, Costa Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Festival Cruises, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Silversea and Swan Hellenic.
By Train – If one approaches the United Kingdom, the best way is to take the Eurostar train to Brussels or Paris and from there take connecting train to Greece.
Tax-free Articles
1. Up to 200 cigarettes or 250 grams of snuff
2. 100 cigarillos or 50 cigars
3. 1 liter spirit over 22% or 2 liters of wine
4. Perfumes – 50 grams or 250 ml
5. Gifts up to € 175
Prohibited Items
Narcotics, firearms, ammunition, weapons, most meat and dairy products, eggs, plants, endangered species, fireworks and alcoholic beverages containing more than sixty percent of alcohol.
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