With Greek banks closed until July 7 and limits on how much can be withdrawn from local bank accounts at ABMs, Canadian travellers to Greece are asking how the situation will affect them.
The answer appears to be not much.
The Government of Canada that Canadian travellers can expect long lines at ABMs and a shortage of hard currency 鈥渢hroughout the country,鈥� so it recommends having 鈥渕ore than one means of payment (cash, debit cards, credit cards)鈥� and bringing enough euros to cover 鈥渦nexpected travel expenses.鈥�
George Dimitrakopoulos, whose Toronto travel agency Mr. Travel specializes in Greece, said Canadians travelling to Greece need not change their plans.
Dimitrakopoulos recommends bringing a normal amount of cash and relying on credit cards.
鈥淎ll (Canadian travellers) have to do is notify their bank so their bank is aware they are out of the country,鈥� he said.
Dimitrakopoulos said he鈥檚 been in touch with local tour operators and credit cards are working fine for foreigners at ABMs, hotels, restaurants and large stores.
The Greek Consulate General in Toronto, meanwhile, posted on Facebook Tuesday to tell tourists they 鈥渨ill not be affected 鈥� and will continue to enjoy their holiday in Greece with absolutely no problem.鈥�
鈥淚t should be also noted that there is ample availability of both fuel and all products and services that ensure a smooth and fun stay for the visitors in every city, region and the islands,鈥� the Consulate General said.
Dimitrakopoulos has been passing on the message along to clients who have inquired.
鈥淲hat I tell them is not to worry and enjoy yourselves,鈥� he said. 鈥淕reece is running like always.鈥�
In fact, he said now is a good time to consider going.
鈥淭he airfares are low. The accommodations are not expensive. You can have a dinner for $15, a nice dinner with a glass of ouzo or a beer.鈥�
鈥淕reece has very good prices at the moment.鈥�
