What Canadians should know about travelling to Greece

A tourist carrying her traveler case and bag as she passes a kiosk with Greek and EU flags 5 days before the upcoming referendum, in central Athens, on Tuesday, June 30, 2015. (AP / Petros Karadjias)

With Greek banks closed until July 7 and limits on how much can be withdrawn from local bank accounts at ABMs, Canadian travellers to Greece are asking how the situation will affect them.

The answer appears to be not much.

The Government of Canada points out that Canadian travellers can expect long lines at ABMs and a shortage of hard currency “throughout the country,” so it recommends having “more than one means of payment (cash, debit cards, credit cards)” and bringing enough euros to cover “unexpected travel expenses.”

George Dimitrakopoulos, whose Toronto travel agency Mr. Travel specializes in Greece, said Canadians travelling to Greece need not change their plans.

Dimitrakopoulos recommends bringing a normal amount of cash and relying on credit cards.

“All (Canadian travellers) have to do is notify their bank so their bank is aware they are out of the country,” he said.

Dimitrakopoulos said he’s been in touch with local tour operators and credit cards are working fine for foreigners at ABMs, hotels, restaurants and large stores.

The Greek Consulate General in Toronto, meanwhile, posted on Facebook Tuesday to tell tourists they “will not be affected … and will continue to enjoy their holiday in Greece with absolutely no problem.”

“It should be also noted that there is ample availability of both fuel and all products and services that ensure a smooth and fun stay for the visitors in every city, region and the islands,” the Consulate General said.

Dimitrakopoulos has been passing on the message along to clients who have inquired.

“What I tell them is not to worry and enjoy yourselves,” he said. “Greece is running like always.”

In fact, he said now is a good time to consider going.

“The airfares are low. The accommodations are not expensive. You can have a dinner for $15, a nice dinner with a glass of ouzo or a beer.”

“Greece has very good prices at the moment.”