Greece Safe for Tourists?

[TxStHorn]

Planning on going there in July on honeymoon.

That is, until a friend of my fiance's told her that they hate Americans, and it is a hot spot for terrorism and kidnapping of US citizens, etc.

I call BS, but...

I checked the US State Department warnings, and it looks ok to me. Hell, there's fewer warnings from the consulate there than in England.

Thought I'd see if anyone here had any thoughts/knowledge about it.

 

[soonerinatlanta]

The greeks hate americans? Both times I've been there (athens, mykonos, santorini), I've never had anything but great experiences. I think your friend is misinformed. As with anywhere you travel, act in a manner that respects their culture and you'll be treated well. I've found this to be the case whereever I've gone.

I would highly recommend going to greece. I love it there, particularly santorini.

 

[TXHookem]

Wow... utter BS. I've heard that about Argentina, Italy, France, etc. etc.

 

[VinnyVango]

Ditto the BS call...

I was there in September... nothing but cordiality where I went.

Act politely and respectfully and you'll likely be treated the same way...

 

[tmiller3]

Travel there regularly on business. Like any coutnry ou'll find people who don't like americans. Howver, as the others have noted, that is rare. if you treat them with respect, you will be treated with respect.

 

[washparkhorn]

tmiller gives good advice. My wife and I had a great experience there.

If you are looking for their current "bad guys" - here they are: Revolutionary Struggle .

They shot a missile at our embassy in January of this year.

 

[tmiller3]

Sorry for the typos- brain dead at end of day. If you have any concerns on travel safety, take a look at the Uk foreign office travel advice or Canada or Australia. Don't have lniks but the advice there is usally better that what you'll find on the State Department's site.

 

[pulque]

Zorba, teach me to dance...

 

[Hellraiser97]

Had a great time in Greece in '03. Nobody bothered me at all. Not even any dirty looks that I remember.

 

[TxStHorn]

Any suggestions on good vacation packages for Mykelos / Santorini?

Virgin Airlines seems to have decent packages, FWIW.

 

[ghost]

Ditto on what everyone else has said thus far. I went to Greece for three weeks in 2004 and no problems. Of course, my family is Greek (although I am tall, blond haired, and blue eyed - yikes, the outcast!) so we had no problem. Let me clarify, my Dad and Uncle are full blooded. My sister and I are half.

Anyway, point being you should have no problems whatsoever. Santorini is really laid back and quite quaint when cruise ships aren't in town. Enjoy your trip and bring your sunglasses!! The strong sun on all white buildings (in Santorini at least) can be brutal.

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