There are two very good reasons to go to Greece on holiday now. One is that you will be sure to find sunshine there and secondly you can get a really good bargain.
Tour operators are rejoicing again as bookings have picked up following the news of the bailout and there are some good deals to be had now.
The Greek economy depends on tourism and the income it generates so it is vital that it remains competitive and many tourist destinations are determined to absorb the VAT increase this season rather than pass it on to holidaymakers.
The banks have now re-opened and confidence is increasing although the Foreign Office still advises to take sufficient euros in cash, just in case.
Why you should visit Greece
There are, of course, many other reasons to visit the cradle of western civilization including its rich cultural heritage and its many islands. Some are listed below.
Corfu’s beaches
If you’re looking for a traditional beach holiday, Corfu is ideal bucket–and–spade territory. It rounds up some of the best beaches in Greece, with horseshoe–shaped Glyfada being one of the best. This Blue Flag number packs in plenty of watersports, like jet–skiing and sea–biking, while pine–clad mountains in the background finish things off. Or, take the little ones to laid–back San Stefanos beach, with family–friendly shallow water and gently shelving sand.
Boat trips to a grotto
You’ll feel like you’re in a submarine when you go on a trip to the Blue Grotto in Zante – the walls of this string of caves magically reflect the water, giving the impression that you’re surrounded by the sea. You can take your mask and flippers with you too – the Grotto is in a great spot for snorkelling on Skinari Cape in the north of the island.
Trips to Rhodes Town
Narrow cobbled streets and cubbyhole shops are tucked away behind the thick walls and battlements of this Medieval citadel. But there’s more to it than history and souvenir hunting – Rhodes Town is surrounded by beaches, and the new town has loads of dawn–’til–dusk clubbing spots, too.
Party harbour
The harbour is where it all happens in Chania in Crete. By day it’s a place to stop off for coffee, have a meal at one of the fish restaurants or stock up at the ouzo shops. At night, the harbour morphs into a serious party animal, with bars and clubs pumping out Euro pop to a trendy crowd. It keeps it up ’til the early hours – most places around here don’t shut until 5am.
Natural hot tub
If you visit Thermes in Kos you might wonder exactly what the attraction of a shingle beach at the bottom of a steep cliff is. The answer is a 100% natural hot spring, complete with bubbles which rise up from cracks in the sea bed. Just take off your jewellery – it won’t like the sulphur – lie back, and relax.
