[caption id="attachment_1007" align="alignleft" width="125" caption="Greece Tour - wouldn't you want to BE here?"][/caption]

I have learned that creating custom cruise and tour programs requires a level of responsibility that exceeds that of merely booking the international flights, the cruise ship and hotel accommodations, and the different activities that will make the overall event happily memorable – it requires that I provide some essential travel advisory information.  Putting myself in the shoes of my clients, I have to allow curiosity to lead my mind – for your benefit!   Relating to our upcoming tour to Greece in May, 2011, you might want to know, for instance:

 

Travel

•  What happens when we enter Greece – if that is by sea, air or land?
• When is the best time to visit; when it is hot or cold and when are the high or low tourist seasons?

Health and Safety

• Are there certain health tips that will be important to know; are there a different set of “health rights” when visiting internationally?
• What do we have to be aware of relative to health issues with local restrooms, recreational drugs of which we might not be aware, and what vaccinations might be required, or at least prudent to have before departure?
• Would it be good to know whether tap or bottled water is a better choice; what food and alcohol choices might be not so good?   What restaurant or tourist traps would it be good to know about?

Customs and Etiquette

• What customs and etiquette should we be aware of so that we best honor the people of the country we are visiting?

Shopping

• Shopping always seems to be a natural extension of travel – we want to bring a piece of our vacation home with us!  With that in mind, what tips would benefit us in selecting gifts – and knowing we are getting a good deal?  What specific items are unique to the country… coffee, tea, wine?  What changes to our daily schedule would we need to make in order to maximize the “business hours?”

Protection for Tourists

• As the coordinator of all your activities, your safety is a primary concern for me.   I need to know what protection there is for tourists, are there police trained specifically to assist tourists?  What travel advisories are provided to tourists?   What aspects about driving and walking do we need to be more aware of?

As you can tell… my curious mind DOES want to know – so over the course of the next few days, I will be finding the answers to these questions… all specific to our Greece Tour.   Stop back by if you, too, will find the responses important to decisions you may be making about our Greece Tour.

Jan Vitale,

Vital Enterprises, LLC

Oh, you might also want to head over to my website and sign up for the travel news… and receive your complimentary copy of Traveling Lite 101.

Sometimes there is just not quite enough information on a particular topic that allows for a content rich article; however, that information is critical to experiencing worry-free travel.  Today’s missive to you includes many of those snippits of tips and resources of which you should at least be aware – as specifically related to a Greece Tour.

Greece Telephone Communication 

Country Code                                    +30

Area Code                                           +210

                                                                 Calling Time Calculator

There may be times you need to make an adjustment to your schedule to compare your own time zone and that of an international connection.

Cell Phone Usage                        

Have you checked with your own carrier to determine your available options before you take any other action?  Some of the “other” options would include a Vodaphone pay-as-you-go phone, purchase a Greek SIM card, charging Mobal Cell and Satellite phone usage to your credit card, renting a cell phone while in Greece, a GSM cell phone that can be used with a Greek SIM card, and International SIM cards – for which I am currently do a more extensive survey/study for a future article.

Money in Greece

You may want to be aware of the “1 Euro Shops” which are similar to our own 99 Cent or Dollar stores for those items you deemed to bothersome to pack, or simply forgot.  In that list, you might be looking for cheap toiletries, European electronics that are next to impossible to find outside of Europe, multi-purpose tools that simply won’t pass through airport security, intimate apparel, and inexpensive rain gear.

Using ATM’s in Greece is more popular, and frequently less frustrating and expensive than making your dollar exchange through local banks and services.  Be aware of three things: 

1) On the weekends – it is not uncommon for the machines to be drained; don’t let your money supply get dangerously low. 

2) The machines that have English advertising normally run out of money first; however, if you place your card into what appears to be a Greek only ATM, the display will still come up in English – and your chances of accessing greater sums of money is more likely. 

3)  Most banks in Greece have protected ATM areas – which are nothing more than glass-enclosed rooms that are locked.  There is, however a card-reader, which effectively is your ATM card, that unlocks that door!

Currency Converter for Greece               

Packing for Greece Tours

Using the right type of bags, backpacks and lighter weight containers allows the flexibility to make quick changes at the airport – and leverage the use of your carriers to counter the increasing restrictions on stowed luggage rules.  Consider how much you would save in time, lost items, money and frustration simply by taking advantage of one of the collapsible bags now popular for travel.

With the continuing threat of terrorist activities, airline restrictions come with the unknown factor of what modifications have been most recently implemented.  The real test is to prepare yourself for “anything.”  Will you have to surrender certain items – unexpectedly?  With the extra amount of handling – do you need to change from less expensive baggies to a heavier plastic style?  Can you manage better by layering your clothing – carrying some of that extra attire on your body, rather than in a checked luggage that might not find it’s way to you in a timely manner?  Are you prepared to have more of your personal information in a body wallet rather than in a zip lock – or perhaps saved to a keychain-style flash drive that can pass easily through inspections.

Greek Medical Assistance and Information

Upon arrival in Greece, confirm local hospital information either in the local newspaper, or online at eKathimerini.  The following phone codes apply in most areas of Greece:

• 24 hour pharmacies                107
• Hospitals                                     106
• Emergency                                 105
• Ambulance                                 166
• Roadside assistance               10400

I trust you have found some important information in this Greece Tour Trivia.   It has been an interesting “pursuit” of questions I felt personally unanswered and needed my own peace of mind around.  I am sure there will be more… stay tuned!  Slip over and subscribe to my travel news…

Jan Vitale 

…making one great tour happen after another – based on great travel tips!

Vital Enterprises, LLC

1. The airfare to and from Greece – based out of NYC
2. Hotel arrangements when not on the cruise ship
3. A good portion of the meals – a few times you are allowed the privilege
4. Sightseeing and cruise expenses – those which are included in the package (extras may be offered at your own expense).

In exchange, you get an exciting, well-planned, and relatively worry-free introduction to the marvels of the “world” of Greece.  Cruises of the islands may well be one of best memories I can help you capture – cruises that would include the additional transportation cost and the hotels on the island selected.  My preference is to schedule the tour so that you get to experience more than “port hopping” and give you more than three or four hours of time to visit and get a real flavor of the countryside.

[caption id="attachment_978" align="alignleft" width="125" caption="The Acroplis - the Symbol of Greece"][/caption]

You will certainly want to experience some of the fun, touristy attractions that make Greece irresistible – touring Athens or The Acropolis, or select from one of about ten major Greece destination spots.  In my heart, no trip to Greece could be complete without visiting this “symbol” of Greece – - although nothing much more than an outcropping of rocks, it is crowned with the sacred temple of Athena.  Museums in Ancient Greece hold a world-class collection of artifacts – ranging from the dramatic statues of godlike young men to a myriad of other items that have been bleached white through the years of blazing sun and pounding rain.  Theaters are still a compelling part of Greek life, where old buildings still function for plays presented during the summer’s Epidaurus Festivals.  And no Greece tour would be all that it “should” be without taking time to visit the many ancient ruins… enigmatical places where towns simply grew up around them, and many that can only be reached by busy narrow roads.

[caption id="attachment_980" align="alignright" width="125" caption="Color, passion, vitality - it's all in the Dance!"][/caption]

It is difficult to say what is the “best of Greece… that would depend on what excites and fulfills your expectations.  Let it suffice to say there is something for everyone in the ancient ruins, the beautiful landscape, the power of an ocean wrapping its arms around the tiny islands, as though to protect them… not to mention the wonderful vitality of a people entrenched in a rich culture of music, art, architecture, and food!

Join me in May, 2011!  And.. if you want to know how to pack, what to pack, and what to pack it in… slip over and get your complimentary copy of Traveling Lite 101

Jan Vitale – bringing the joy of travel to YOUR world – one tour at a time.

Vital Enterprises, LLC

In researching a country for a custom cruise,  I find fesitvals and holidays are important to know as part of the scheduling process, as well as exciting to learn!  Today’s focus is on some of the Greek Festivals and Holidays – leaving me wondering if they are the cornerstone for that vital, vibrant Greek personality!

Most festivals in Greece – being in accordance with the Orthodox calendar are of a religious nature; others are strictly cultural. Plays have long been a part of these festivals – using them to cherish and retain each moment of the rich heritage.  Music is a distinct part of the Creek culture – with many appearances offering an international appeal.

[caption id="attachment_961" align="alignleft" width="73" caption="Feast of Agios Vassilis "][/caption]

If you visit Greece in January, you can experience the Feast of Agios Vassilis (Santa Claus).  It is a day of family gathering, and cutting a sweet bread with a gold coin inside… the lucky recipient having good luck throughout the year.  It is also the day when Greek children receive their Christmas gifts.

March finds the locals celebrating the Feast of Annunciation – the day that the Angel Gabriel was supposed to have announced Mary the incarnation of Christ.  Also being the day beginning the Revolutionary War against the Turks in 1821, visitors should not be surprised to see military parades in most towns throughout the country on March 25^th. 

[caption id="attachment_962" align="alignright" width="125" caption="Greek Orthodox Church Easter candle lighting"][/caption]

The most important festival of the Greek Orthodox Church is Easter.  Starting seven weeks before Easter Sunday, services are held every night, with a special celebration on Good Friday.  Additionally, on the Saturday before Easter, worshippers gather to share the lighting of candles, each lighting another person’s candle until the courtyard is a blaze of shared light.  The black smoke of the candles is the used to put a sign of the cross above the doors of the homes; with the belief the action brings good fortune to the homes.  After midnight the families eat a special soup that sustains them through the festivities of Easter Sunday.

The next celebration happens on April 23, which is the Feast of Saint George (Agios Georgios) – who is the patron of all shepherds.  In the town of Arachova, this celebration extends over three full days.

[caption id="attachment_963" align="alignleft" width="77" caption="Holiday Celebrating Students"][/caption]

Another religious celebration is 40-50 days following Easter, celebrating the Holy Spirit appearing to the Apostles and asking them to teach Christianity to the world.  It is predominately a holiday for students.

The next primary holiday does not occur until the 15^th of August – the Day of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, which is in celebration of Mary’s ascent to Heaven.  Pilgrimages happen throughout Greece because Mary is considered the protector of all the country, and travelers will see many chapels in dedication to her.

[caption id="attachment_964" align="alignright" width="125" caption="Christmas nautical decorations"][/caption]

The Greek culture also embraces Christmas as the birth of Christ.  Although visitors will see the traditional Christmas Tree, in the past the celebrations included decorating wooden boats – reflecting the nautical traditions of the country.  The day before Christmas, children line the streets, singing Christmas carols (kalanda) and sharing the joy of the season at the door of each home.

There are other dates considered Greek National Holidays, including Greek Independence Day on March 25^th; Labor Day (Protomagia) on May 1^st, consisting of picnics and political demonstrations; Ohi Day on October 28^th, commemorating the Greek’s refusal to surrender during World War II; and November 17^th, in honor of the students who were killed as part of the protest for the Junta in 1974.

I find it fascinating – to see how the celebrations each country – although stemming from heritage and culture, actually molds more of the characteristics of its people.  For this short study, I can see this heritage and culture, the religious foundation, the independent and joyful nature… and even the “hope” found in the breaking of bread with gold coins.  If you are Greek, I hope this is seen as a tribute and honor to your rich heritage; if you are not, I trust it will be a way you can honor this great nation should you decide to travel there.

And… speaking of travel – every day brings me closer to finalizing the key points of the Greece Tour in May, 2011!  If you want to make sure you are posted about the exact plans, make sure to slip over to the Subscription page of Vital Enterprises, LLC – and in subscribing, get your complimentary copy of Traveling Lite 101 (How to Pack, What to Pack, and What to Pack it In!)

Jan Vitale

Vital Enterprises, LLC

[caption id="attachment_943" align="alignleft" width="125" caption="Increased Chinese tourism to Greece"][/caption]

It is true, I believe, that history repeats itself, and that belief was supported by an article I read this morning about how Greece took the future in its hands by creative thinking!  The same type of “great thinking” that made Greece the leader in so many areas of life became evident once again…   finding tourist officials who looked at the diminishing tourist trade, brought about by the financial and political turmoil – and looked for a country whose travelers enjoy luxury and still have the ability to afford it.  Replacing the loss of annual visitors from England and Germany was critical – the next best step was creating relationships and special packages for Chinese tourists.   The activity was initiated based on a survey completed in 2005, where Greece was voted as China’s favored tour destination. 

The little island of Hydra appears to have seen significant benefit in the aggressive marketing platform – seeing what may well be ten times the number of previous year’s visitors from China.  Not only do the Chinese warm to travel bargains, they like the fact that touring Greece is more about the country and the culture than tourism and shopping.

Aside from financial and political woes, we can only hope that Greece does not become ambivalent about its role in Europe, or the loss of hard-won independence and identity to supervening powers.  As I work to design Greece tours, my one question remains whether prime minister Papandreou, known for high-level lateral thinking, can strategically plan and predict the fundamental changes in the country’s economy, structure  and culture. 

[caption id="attachment_945" align="alignleft" width="93" caption="Tourism Tax Cuts create win/win"][/caption]

From a news wire report on Friday,  the government sees the make sense benefit of supporting tourism by electing to drastically reduce sales tax for the travel industry from 11 to 6.5 percent – a decision that has the potential to raise tourism proceeds by close to $850 million.  This move will not only allow the country to be competitive with other countries, it will keep businesses that support tourism open longer, as well as maintain or increase employment.  At just short of 20 percent of the gross domestic product, Greek tourism may now be able to rebound somewhat from the losses suffered during the year from strikes, violent street protests and an increasing debt crisis.

[caption id="attachment_950" align="alignright" width="125" caption="Collective efforts... the win/win for tourism"][/caption]

According to a recent article in the Travel Daily News International, the Tourism Deputy Minister George Nikitiades, believes with an aggressive and strategic plan, 1.5 million annual visitors to the country is possible… by offering low-cost carriers flights into Greece some marketing subsidies.   The author of this article was somewhat dismayed that the same kind of support is not being offered to the tour operators who send thousands of visitors to the country every year – with no additional incentive other than drastically reducing their commissions just to make the packages attractive to travelers.  The one really great point of this article is that… the collective give, take and support of the tour operator, hotel and airline – providing sellable margins – can keep all three in a state of profit.  From my personal perspective, creating this type of win/win through collective efforts will sustain Greek tourism long-term.

Enough of the news… and back to some excitement about the Greece Tour being planned for May, 2011!  It has been a challenge - deciding whether the trip should be 9 days or 12; it has been interesting – being offered hotel choices which have had bad reviews; and it has been a test of my professional expectations to have been told in the beginning what my expectations might be – and then later be given totally different information.   But – and here is where you win… I persevere because my custom designed cruises are ultimately worth every effort I expend.  I am hoping you are thinking about how YOU are going to spend YOUR time in May, 2011.  In the meantime, if you haven’t done so yet, slip over to the Subscription page of Vital Enterprises, LLC and claim your complimentary copy of Traveling Lite 101 – How to Pack, What to Pack and What to Pack it In! 

Jan Vitale… the traveler’s choice for custom tour design.

Vital Enterprises, LLC