If you have been following the news on Greece’s budget deficit and negotiations with the European Union for bailout money, you might think that the country is in chaos, ATM’s are shut down, and people on the street are accosting tourists for handouts. Not true.
Greece is one of the most orderly countries in the world. In Athens, money is readily available from a plethora of ATM’s and credit cards are accepted by most hotels and restaurants. You’ll see shops near Syntagma Square, close to the city center, filled with shoppers and tourists, displaying the best European styles. Modern restaurants, hotels, and coffee houses dot the streets. Blue uniformed police are seen on nearly every corner and well dressed, orderly, crowds fill the subways during rush hour. People are friendly and courteous, even the taxi drivers. Although a few residents are homeless, like in most large cities, most sell purse-sized packs of tissues to generate an income.`
The weather in late February was spectacular: temperate with not a hint of pollution or a cloud in the sky. No need for even a jacket or a sweater during the day. The views from the Acropolis and Lycobettus Hill were fantastic — white and tan buildings stretching off in the distance to embrace the mountains and the sea.
And best of all, the dollar is the strongest it’s been against the Euro in over 12 years. The exchange rate is fluctuating around 1.05 dollars to the Euro whereas in 2011 it was 1.50. In addition, the dollar is stronger against the British Pound than it has been in over 20 years. Since the new president’s economic policies are likely to lower the value of our money, there is no better time to visit Greece and Europe than the present.
You can count on your tourist dollars helping the EU continue its economic recovery as well. So if you’re planning your summer vacation or just a quick getaway, why not try Greece?
