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TIME
The time in Greece in common with Eastern Europe, is always two hours ahead of the UK. CURRENCY Banks are only open Monday to Friday and close at 2pm but in the main tourist areas cash and travellers cheques can usually be changed in a variety of places. Istron has a 24 hour cash machine which will accept Visa and other major cards. Since the exchange rate to euro from sterling is more favourable in Greece than the UK it is advisable to exchange the bulk of your currency into euro while on holiday and only bring a small amount of euro currency with you to get started, especially if your flight arrival time is during the night or early hours. TAXIS Are relatively inexpensive compared to the UK. When you send in the booking form you can request a taxi and we will arrange for you to be collected from the airport and taken directly to your accommodation [approx. one hour]. This service costs about 55 euro each trip. Taxis are insured for a maximum of four adults and the fare is payable in euro direct to the driver on arrival in Istron. PASSPORTS To enter Greece, everyone over the age of 16 should have a ten-year passport that will remain valid for at least three months after departure from Crete. Holders of non EC passports should check for possible visa requirements with the Greek Consulate or their Embassy.
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HOLIDAY WEATHER The typically Mediterranean climate of Crete is temperate with two main seasons. Summer is usually dry and hot from May to October and it can become quite humid especially in areas near the sea, but the Meltemia a fairly strong north wind can pleasantly cool the northern shores from mid June to the beginning of September. Winters are generally mild with occasional rainy spells from November to April and although snow hardly ever falls on the plains it is quite frequent in the mountains. Due to the variations in terrain, there is often a noticeable climatic difference between the north & south coasts and the interior mountainous areas. |
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Temperature guide in degrees Celsius from data recorded in Heraklion.
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DINING OUT It is not expensive to eat out in Greece although prices are higher in the main tourist areas. Istron boasts some superb restaurants, tavernas and bars which offer very good value for money and present a varied choice of cuisine. Most waiters speak good English and can advise you about the specialities of their particular menu which is usually cooked fresh every day and offered with a choice of local and international wines. Inexpensive house wine is served by the carafe in most tavernas and the traditional Greek drink of Ouzo, an aniseed based spirit, makes an excellent aperitif but with an acquired taste. Restaurant bills have a service charge of 10-15% already included, but it is still usual to leave the waiter a small tip. MEDICAL TREATMENT All UK citizens travelling to another EC country are advised to obtain form E111 from their doctor. This form should be presented when any medical assistance is required abroad, and will enable you to reclaim certain costs when you return home. It is also advisable to arrange holiday insurance which includes suitable medical cover. The regulations concerning inoculations and immunisation alter from time to time but at present none are required for EC citizens entering Greece. Leaflets from The Department of Health containing advice to travellers is available from your local GP. |
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Copyright 2005-2006. Companions in Crete - Crete Self-Catering, All Rights Reserved |
