Travelling to Greece (any economists here?)

[paul]

I'm due to go to Crete next month.

The financial crisis in Greece seems like it hasn't gone away and I was just wondering what implications this has (if any) for visiting tourists. I'm not worried about protests, etc. (I think they're more likely to be confined to Athens than the islands) but I'm wondering if visitors can expect things to be different in any other ways. Will things be cheaper or more exepnsive or pretty much the same? Are there are any other implications that visitors need to be aware of?

Thanks.
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[StephanG]

I am an economist, but I don't think we'll need the blackboard for this one. There is a bit of inflation in Greece, but nothing that will hit you too hard. I think it's all business as usual - enjoy the trip!

[benshearer]

hi,
My experience of the greek tourist industry over the last 18 months has been quite clear. Vat is higher than it used to be 23% currently, and that is applied to everything except food and soft drinks in supermarkets and all inclusive hotels. small familly business have tried hard for the last couple of years to keep their prices as low as possible, but this is no longer sustainable, inevitably prices have been creaping up aver the last 6 months or so. that said now that the summer is over, you should be able to mitigate the increase in costs of food and drinks with a little tough negotiation with hotels!!
Safe trip

[LookNetwork]

Tourists might enjoy the benefits of the crisis as things get cheaper, yes they raise the VAT but will not affect you that much; you can find cheaper tourist packages.
Another point is that tourists become scarce during crisis so you should get better service.

[paul]

We got back at 2am yesterday. You wouldn't know there's a supposed crisis going on. The hotel resort we stayed at was seemingly very quiet, but this is normal for this time of year on Crete when the season typically ends at the end of October. From what I could make out, the island had enjoyed a relatively successful tourist season this year.
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[tpsaras]

Crisis? Everything is more expensive in our every day lives, and the extra tax has taken it's toll. The reality is, as a tourist in Greece, you're guaranteed an amazing time, plus you're helping out the economy. The services of our hotels are now at an amazing level, the hospitality is still great, and if you shop around you'll find very good rates, even for luxury holidays.

Don't be afraid, just have an amazing time in Greece! You're safe.

Happy travels!