useful information
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flight
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7 hrs from london to kefallonia via athens.
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time difference
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GMT +2 (GMT +3 between the last Sunday in April and the last Sunday in October).
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language
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Greek is the national language, but English is widely spoken.
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climate
Greece enjoys mild winters and very hot, dry Summers cooled by seasonal breezes known as 'meltemia'. Snow can fall in the mountainous regions in winter. Winter is the wettest season with rain unlikely between June and August.
visa & entry requirements
UK nationals require a passport valid for the intended period of stay, but a visa is not required. It is recommended to hold a return/onward ticket. If arriving with a one-way ticket, passengers may be asked for proof of sufficient funds for the return/onward journey. NB: Passport and visa requirements are liable to change at short notice. Travellers are advised to check their entry requirements with their embassy or consulate.
health
There are no specific health risks in Greece, but visitors who plan to walk through forested areas are advised to consider vaccination against tick-borne encephalitis. Medical facilities in Greece vary; those in major cities are excellent but many of the islands are some distance from a decent hospital. Food and water are safe, but those visiting for short periods should consider sticking to bottled water. UK nationals are entitled to a refund on emergency hospital treatment under a reciprocal agreement between the UK and Greece, and a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) should be taken on holiday for this purpose. Despite this, all visitors are advised to take out medical insurance. Yellow fever vaccination certificates are required for those arriving from infected areas. Bird flu was detected in swans in northern Greece in February 2006, but stringent measures have been taken to contain the outbreak; no human infections have been reported. The risk to people is believed to be very low, but visitors are advised to avoid any contact with caged, wild or domestic birds, and to ensure that all poultry and egg dishes are well cooked as a precaution. NB: For expert opinion on all of these diseases and any more that are relevant to travel please always consult your doctor or GP. Comprehensive medical insurance is advised.
