Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
stepped alleys creates a further challenge. People who have visual or hearing impair-
ments are also rarely catered to.
Careful planning before you go can make a world of difference. Check out
www.greecetravel.com/handicapped
for links to local articles, resorts and tour groups ca-
tering to tourists with physical disabilities.
Sailing Holidays
(
www.charterayachtingreece.com/DRYachting/index.html
) Two-day to
two-week sailing trips around the Greek islands in fully accessible yachts.
resort/index.html
;
Skaloma, Loutraki, Corinthia) Family-friendly resort with accessible
apartments, tours and ramps into the sea.
Visas
The list of countries whose nationals can stay in Greece for up to three months without a
visa includes Australia, Canada, all EU countries, Iceland, Israel, Japan, New Zealand,
Norway, Switzerland and the USA. Other countries included are the European principalit-
ies of Monaco and San Marino and most South American countries. The list changes -
contact Greek embassies for the full list.
Visa Extensions
If you wish to stay in Greece for longer than three months, apply at a consulate abroad or
at least 20 days in advance at the
Aliens Bureau
( 210 770 5711; Leoforos Alexandras
173, Ambelokipi, Athens; 8am-1pm Mon-Fri) in the Athens Central Police Station.
Take your passport and four passport photographs along. You may be asked for proof that
you can support yourself financially, so keep all your bank exchange slips (or the equival-
ent from a post office). These slips are not always automatically given - you may have to
ask for them. Elsewhere in Greece apply to the local police authority. You will likely be giv-
en a permit that will authorise you to stay in the country for a period of up to six months.
Many travellers get around the need for an extension by visiting Bulgaria or Turkey
briefly and then re-entering Greece. If you overstay your visa, you will be slapped with a
huge fine upon leaving the country.
Women Travellers
Many women travel alone in Greece. The crime rate remains relatively low and solo travel
is probably safer than in most European countries. This does not mean that you should be
lulled into complacency; bag snatching and rapes do occur, particularly at party resorts on
the islands.
