The Basics: ElectricityElectrical current is 220 volts, 50Hz. A variety of
plugs are in use including the European-style two-pin and the round
three-pin. LanguageGreek is the national language, but English is widely
spoken. TippingA service charge is often included in the bill at restaurants in
Greece, it is best to see if this is the case when tipping. If not,
leave between 10 to 15%. For drinks at cafes, round the bill up to
the nearest euro. Taxis expect change as do cloak room attendants
and porters. Safety InformationThere is a safety risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks and
visitors are urged to be vigilant in public places, including
tourist sites. Recent strikes have inconvenienced travellers
without turning violent, however tourists are advised to stay away
from political gatherings. Greece is otherwise considered a safe
destination, but the height of the tourist season does usually see
an increase in petty theft cases, particularly in crowded areas.
Visitors are advised not to carry valuables on them. Violent crime
is infrequent, but there have been incidents on some Greek islands
and lone visitors are advised not to accept lifts from
strangers. Local CustomsIndecent behaviour is not tolerated and the police will not
hesitate to arrest or fine offenders. Some form of official
identification should be carried at all times. BusinessBusiness in Greece is conducted in a similar fashion to Italy or
Spain rather than their northern European counterparts. A formal
dress style is adhered to; dark, conservative suits for men and
women are best. Punctuality is not often practiced in Greece and
often hosts arrive late to meetings. A firm handshake with eye
contact is the norm for greeting men and women for the first time.
Business cards should be printed in both Greek and English,
although there is no ritual surrounding the exchange. Greeks like
to get to know their business colleagues before conducting any
serious business so don't expect to close a deal at the first
meeting. Greek culture adheres to a hierarchical structure and
respect should be shown accordingly. The giving of gifts is common
in social circumstances though not necessarily in business.
Business hours are generally 8.30am to 1pm and 3pm to 6pm Monday to
Friday. CommunicationsThe international access code for Greece is +30. The outgoing
code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the
United Kingdom). The city code for Athens is 210. There are often
surcharges on calls made from hotels and it is generally cheaper to
use OTE (Hellenic Telecommunications Organisation) offices for
local and international calls. Calls can also be made from public
card phone booths and cards can be bought from kiosks or OTE
offices. The local mobile phone operators use GSM networks and have
roaming agreements with most international operators. Coverage is
exceptional. Internet cafes are available in the main towns and
resorts and are cheaper than accessing the Internet from
hotels. Duty FreeTravellers from non-EU countries do not pay duty when entering
Greece for 200 cigarettes, or 100 cigarillos, or 50 cigars, or 250g
tobacco; 1 litre of spirits with alcohol volume over 22%, or 2
litres of dessert wine not exceeding 22% alcohol volume and
sparkling wine, and 2 litres of table wine; 50g perfume or 250ml
eau de toilette; and other goods for non-commercial value to the
value of EUR175 for adults and EUR90 for children under 15
years.
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