Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Worldwide travel insurance is available at
www.lonelyplanet.com/travel_services
.
You
can buy, extend and claim online anytime - even if you're already on the road.
Water
Tap water is drinkable and safe in much of Greece but not always in small villages and on
some of the islands. Always ask locally if the water is safe and, if in doubt, drink boiled or
bought water. Even when water is safe, the substances and bacteria in it may be different
from those you are used to and can cause vomiting or diarrhoea. Bottled water is widely
available.
Internet Access
Greece has long embraced the convenience of the internet. There has been a huge in-
crease in the number of hotels and businesses using the internet, and internet cafes are
everywhere. Many hotels also offer wi-fi access, although hot spots are often located in
the lobby rather than in your room. You'll also find many cafes offering wi-fi.
Legal Matters
Arrests
It is a good idea to have your passport with you at all times in case you are stopped by
the police and questioned. Greek citizens are presumed always to have identification on
them; foreign visitors are similarly presumed to by the police. If you are arrested by police
insist on an interpreter (
the-
lo dhi-ermi-
nea
) and/or a lawyer (
the
-lo dhi-ki-
go
-ro).
Drugs
Greek drug laws are the strictest in Europe. Greek courts make no distinction between
possession and pushing. Possession of even a small amount of marijuana is likely to land
you in jail.
Maps
Unless you are going to hike or drive, the free maps given out by the EOT will probably
suffice, although they are not 100% accurate. Maps offering excellent coverage are pub-
lished by an Athens-based company, Anavasi. Hikers should consider their
Topo
series,
which have durable plasticised paper and detailed walking trails for many of the Aegean
islands. Also look for Terrain maps, published in Athens and offering equally good cover-
age. All maps can be bought online or at major bookstores in Greece.
