- How do I receive a TrueGreece proposal for a customised trip?
You will need to complete our TrueGreece Customised Trip Questionnaire, thus providing us with valuable information so that we can create an itinerary that best suits your needs. If you are interested in one of our vacation packages please send us an email to info@truegreece.co.uk, with the particular vacation package and arrival dates you have chosen to travel.
- Does TrueGreece plan honeymoon trips?
Congratulations on getting married! TrueGreece would be more than happy to plan an unforgettable and romantic honeymoon. Our Greek Island Honeymoon page will provide ample details on how TrueGreece can plan your ideal honeymoon.
- Can TrueGreece book hotel accommodations, guides or transfers only? Unfortunately, we do not book hotel accommodations, guides or transfers only, but rather specialize in organizing our guest’s entire trip experience. In this way we can deliver the quality of service we want our guests to experience. If you are looking for the entire arrangement please visit our customised trip section.
- Does TrueGreece customize trips for groups based on particular interests?
Yes. Our TrueGreece consultants will work closely with you to create the perfect itinerary. Due to the unique nature of your request we would either recommend calling our expert TrueGreece consultant on 0203-026-1176 (UK) / +30 210 61 20 656 (Greece) or sending a detailed e-mail to info@truegreece.co.uk.
- What does TrueGreece classify as a private group?
Eight guests or more travelling on the same itinerary can be classified as a private group.
- Can travel agents book TrueGreece trips?
We certainly do work with travel agents. There is no fee associated with our Vacation Packages, but, if your clients are interested in FIT, we charge a 200 Euro non-refundable service fee before we provide you with a full itinerary proposal. The fee counts towards the cost of your client’s trip if they decide to book through TrueGreece.
- Does TrueGreece include International airfare for available packages? Does TrueGreece book International airfare?
TrueGreece Customised trips and tours do not include international airfare in the price of the package. As our operations office is based in Athens Greece, we would only be able to provide you with a quote from our local booking system. From our experience by purchasing your international airfare from your current departure location you will be able to find a better quote. By using the internet or a wholesaler you will have the flexibility and control over your choices.
- Are TrueGreece tours and TrueGreece Vacation Packages physically demanding? TrueGreece guests should be able to tolerate warm temperatures, uneven roads, steep stairs at hotels or archaeological sites (especially on Santorini) and travel for long periods if required by their itinerary. Keep in mind that TrueGreece will design your itinerary so that you maximise the time relaxing on the islands and minimize the time spent travelling. We will make sure that any pre-planned activities and transfers are scheduled in such a manner that will not create any extra strain.
Additionally when filling out your TrueGreece Customised Trip Questionnaire we would strongly advise that you mention your concern towards any accessibility issues in the comments section, so the TrueGreece consultant that plans your itinerary can make appropriate adjustments and recommendations.
- I have a walking constraint. How freely can I take part in a TrueGreece tour?
Guest participating in a TrueGreece trip or Vacation Package must be mobile, as they will have to travel on coaches, planes and ferries. Additionally some islands have a great deal of steps at the hotels (without elevators), uneven roads and pavements and narrow streets.
Additionally when filling out your TrueGreece Customised Trip Questionnaire we would strongly advise that you mention your concern towards any accessibility issues in the comments section, so the TrueGreece consultant that plans your itinerary can make appropriate adjustments and recommendations.
- Can children participate in TrueGreece Vacation Packages? If so, what are the recommended ages?
TrueGreece Vacation Packages are not suitable for children under the age of 15. If you are interested in a family vacation please fill out the TrueGreece Customised Trip Questionnaire clearly stating in the comments section the ages of the children, and the room arrangements you would prefer.
When traveling with your children please note that there will be certain constraints as to the hotels (certain hotels on Santorini do not accept children), travel arrangements (on aircraft and ferries infants will be seated on their parents lap), and tours (full day pre-planned tours may prove tiring for children). Your TrueGreece consultant will take the above constraints into consideration and create an itinerary that meets your specific needs.
- What are the TrueGreece office operating hours?
The TrueGreece offices are open weekdays Monday to Thursday from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm Eastern European Time (EET/Greek time), Fridays from 9:00 am to 7:30 pm EET/Greek time and are closed on the weekends, while accommodating emergency calls for our guests in Greece at the time. We would be happy to talk to you over phone in order to provide additional information - please do not hesitate to contact us at 0203-026-1176 (UK) or +30 210 61 20 656 (Greece).
- What forms of payment does TrueGreece accept?
TrueGreece accepts Credit Cards (VISA, MasterCard and American Express), and Debit Cards. A wire transfer option is also available.
- Why must I book my trip over the phone?
Even though the majority of your communications with TrueGreece typically occurs over email, for security purposes we recommend calling in the credit card rather than e-mailing the information. You may call us direct at 0203-026-1176 (UK) or +30 210 61 20 656 (Greece).
- What time of year is best to visit the Greek islands?
The ideal season for a Greek islands vacation is between June through September, when the temperatures allow for swimming in the Aegean Sea, and the islands are bristling with life. The months of May and October are also superb periods during which to visit the Greek islands allowing for a more intimate and secluded experience.
That said, keep in mind that the Greek islands also offer an excellent winter experience. The islands of Crete and Rhodes are still highly populated all year round, as they are two of the biggest islands in Greece. Visiting them during the winter months (December to March) will allow you to enjoy the islands more freely, relax and explore the various locales without the presence of the thousands of tourists that visit the islands each summer.
- Why does the cost of the tours vary by month?
The Greek summer tourist season starts from early May and finishes in late October. Within the summer period the months of July and August are regarded as high season for the Greek market. The substantial increase in demand inevitably leads to a raise in pricing from our suppliers.
- Is a travel visa necessary to enter Greece?
A visa is not required for travelling within the EU. Residents of the member states that have signed the Schengen agreement Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Sweden plus Iceland Lichtenstein, Switzerland and Norway (which are not EU members) only need a valid passport or ID card.
Please note that Ireland and the United Kingdom have not signed the Schengen agreement, so a valid passport or ID card is necessary, plus proof of departure from Greece (international flight, ferry or rail tickets).
For residents of the countries that have entered the EU after 2004 and therefore do not fully participate in the Schengen agreement a valid passport or ID card will suffice for entry into Greece.
For Non EU nationals keep in mind that there are a total of 29 countries whose nationals do not require a visa to enter Greece for three months or less (such as Australia, USA, Canada, Japan etc). For non EU citizens whose country is not in the selected 29 (such as Russia) a visa will be necessary for travel to Greece.
For more specific information please visit the European Union link for “travelling in Europe” http://europa.eu/abc/travel/doc/index_en.htm or contact your local Greek consulate or Embassy.
- If I am travelling to Greece are vaccinations needed?
Unlikely as it may be that vaccinations are necessary for travelling to Greece, we do recommend that you check with your local GP (doctor). For further information you may also visit the Department of Health web site www.dh.gov.uk.
- Should I purchase travel insurance?
We strongly advise our guests to purchase a travel insurance package that best fits their needs. Please also refer to FAQ 37.
- Is English widely spoken in Greece or will it all be Greek to me?
As tourism is an important aspect of the Greek economy and with a flourishing service sector, English is spoken throughout the major tourist areas. All TrueGreece staff, guides and affiliates are also fluent in English. However please note that if you are venturing off to smaller villages, especially on the islands, you may find communicating with the locals a bit more of a challenge. Additionally as most road signs and road names throughout Greece are also displayed in English, with the help of your maps (which you will receive in your TrueGreece welcome package) you should be able to find your way around.
- Why should I spend one night in Athens at the beginning and one night in Athens at the end of my trip?
If you are landing in Athens and then connecting to the islands, we always suggest spending at least one night in Athens at the beginning, and one night at the end. Staying in Athens at the beginning and the end of your trip allows for a stress-free arrival and departure from Greece. Any delay you may experience to your domestic transfer or your international flight may mean that you run the risk of missing your connecting flight. We always let our guests know about the complications involved with flight connections. If you are arriving in Athens or are flying back to your home country from Athens and wish to connect directly to the islands, you would have to accept the risk involved even though we have advised you against it.
British Airways operates flights that connect London directly to several islands, enabling you to limit your number of overnights in Athens.
- What hotels are used by TrueGreece?
TrueGreece works with the best high end hotels in each location, only trusting affiliates that have proven to deliver the quality of service we want our guests to experience. Hotels are chosen based on outstanding accommodations, excellent levels of service, and ideal location.
- Do the hotels used by TrueGreece have air-conditioning?
Yes, TrueGreece is affiliated only with hotels that are fully air conditioned.
- Do all hotels in Greece have Non smoking Rooms?
Some of the hotels included in the TrueGreece portfolio have specific non smoking rooms; however some boutique hotels do not have specific non-smoking rooms since they are small establishments with a limited amount of rooms. If non-smoking rooms are requested the hotels will be informed so that the rooms are aired out and freshened up.
- What mode of transport will be used for my transfers to, from and between the islands?
TrueGreece makes sure that guests travel on the most modern commercial naval fleet for inter island transfers. Our guests will travel quickly and comfortably in Premium class on High speed ferries, Catamarans, Hydrofoils or Conventional ferries, where available. For air travel to and from the islands TrueGreece uses Greece’s modern fleet of aircraft ranging from the Boeing 737, Airbus A320, BAe Avro RJ 100 to twin turboprop aircraft like the ATR 72 or BAe Jetstream 3102. TrueGreece will make sure that the most efficient and reliable modes of transport are used. Guest’s transfers will be planned so that travel time is minimized and time spent on the islands is maximized.
- How many persons are seated per vehicle in the mini vans and buses used by TrueGreece?
TrueGreece wants its guests to enjoy Greece most comfortably. We do not crowd our guests into vehicles, but rather prefer to limit the number of guests to 3 or 4 per car for the customised trips private car transfers, or up to 16 guests per mini bus for the scheduled packages. On the islands where the transfers are handled by the hotels the size of the buses may vary by destination. All hotel buses are modern and fully air-conditioned.
- What kind of vehicles are used by TrueGreece for transfers in Athens and on the islands?
Your scheduled transfers in Greece will be undertaken by a modern fleet of cars, mini buses and coaches. All of the vehicles are immaculately maintained, comfortable and air-conditioned. On the islands where the transfers are handled by the hotels the size of the buses may vary by destination. All hotel buses are modern and fully air-conditioned.
- While using the ferries in the Aegean Sea, will I get sea sick?
If you are prone to sea sickness, then there is a reasonable chance that you will suffer the effects of sea sickness during your ferry transfers (keeping in mind that this depends on the weather during your trip). We would strongly recommend contacting your local General Practitioner (GP Doctor) so that they may provide suggestions for remedies to prevent sea sickness.
Additionally when filling out your TrueGreece Customised Trip Questionnaire we would strongly advise that you mention your concern towards getting sea sick in the comments section, so the TrueGreece consultant that plans your itinerary can make appropriate adjustments and recommendations.
- Are meals included in TrueGreece trips?
During your TrueGreece trip you will have the opportunity to discover the rich and diverse world of Greek food. Greek cuisine has evolved over thousands of years culminating in the Mediterranean diet for which Greece is famous. TrueGreece has taken great care to select both traditional tavernas and upscale restaurants that will provide unforgettable, unique and authentic gastronomic experiences.
The recommended restaurants and tavernas included in your TrueGreece welcome package (which you will receive upon arrival to Greece) have been tried and tested by TrueGreece staff member and affiliates, to ensure that both the food quality and levels of service are of the highest standard.
By presenting your TrueGreece voucher to the designated restaurant, you may enjoy (in the majority of your meals) an unrestricted selection from the restaurant’s menu. The only additional payment you will have to make will be for alcoholic or non alcoholic beverages ordered during your meal, as they are not covered by the TrueGreece voucher.
- Why has TrueGreece created its own recommendations guides, and how do they improve your experience as compared to the other travel books available on the market?
Through the TrueGreece Recommendations guides we want our guests to have an “insider’s view” into the history, feel and activities of each location. As the TrueGreece operations offices are based in Greece, our affiliates and writers have visited each location, dined at recommended restaurants and participated in the suggested activities, thus gaining first hand knowledge and experience. Our recommendations guides are aimed at the high end traveller who wants to experience the more authentic and unique side of Greece.
- What is the weather like in Greece?
The climate in Greece is can be characterised as a classically Mediterranean with hot and dry summers, mild winters and sunshine throughout the whole year. Typically the period from June to August is regarded as the warmest with temperatures ranging from 29 to 35 degrees Celsius and on occasions even reaching 45 degrees celcius. During spring (April and May) and autumn (September, October and November) Greece experiences lower temperatures ranging from 20 to 28 degrees Celsius, still allowing for a swim in the Aegean sea during September and even early October. The winters in Greece are relatively mild with some rain and snow only in the mountainous regions. Temperatures range from 5 to 15 degrees Celsius during the coldest months of January and February, although a sunny, 20 degree day is not an infrequent surprise.
- Where do I meet my driver upon my arrival in Greece, and when do I receive my Welcome Package?
Upon arrival in Greece, please exit the luggage claim area and look for a TrueGreece sign or a sign with your name on it. Please note that your pick-up from the Athens airport has been scheduled based on the flight arrival information that you have provided on your guest list. Should you miss your flight or connection and need to implement a last-minute change on your arrival pick-up time please contact us immediately. Waiting for you upon arrival will be your TrueGreece Welcome Package that will include the TrueGreece Recommendations Guides, your itinerary and transfer tickets within Greece (ferry & air, as applicable), and instructions on pre-packaged meals and activities, if any.
- Is my UK driver’s license valid in Greece?
Yes, driving licenses issued in an EU country are valid throughout the EU. For further information please visit the European Union Web site http://europa.eu.
- Does TrueGreece directly rent cars or motorbikes for its guest?
No, TrueGreece does not rent cars or motorbikes for its guests due to complex legal issues. We can however act as intermediaries between the car rental agencies or hotels in order to place a reservation. The car rental contract will be under the guest’s name and the guests will be responsible for direct payment.
- What clothes should I bring to Greece? What other items will come in handy?
Due to the luggage constraints on domestic flights within Greece we recommend that you pack light for your TrueGreece trip.
During the summer months temperatures in Greece may reach the low forties, and as you will be spending time outside, either relaxing on the beach, exploring around town or visiting archaeological sites, khaki shorts, t-shirts, bathing suits, sunglasses and head gear are extremely important. Lightweight shoes or trainers are also highly recommended for walking in the island villages and archaeological sites. Additionally as you will be spending a great deal of time outside don’t forget to bring along some suntan lotion (preferably with a high SPF factor).
Even though during the day temperatures on the Greek islands may be high, at night it may get a bit chilly, so a light jacket or light jumper may come in useful. Additionally, please note that a hooded jacket may also come in handy despite the fact that it rarely rains during the summer. Sudden and short rain storms called “bourinia” are known to make unexpected appearances during the summer months.
While in Greece you may wish to dine in an upscale restaurant (overlooking the Caldera in Santorini), go out for a drink (maybe in Kolonaki while in Athens), or enjoy the TrueGreece Dinner included in your trip. A sensible guideline for a more upscale dress code would be to bring clothing that you would usually wear for dinner at a moderately upscale restaurant while at home.
Greece is also home to a great many beautiful and historic religious monuments such as monasteries and churches. If you intend to visit such sites please keep in mind that the dress code is quite strict. Men should wear long trousers (instead of short), and women should wear skirts or dresses at least down to the knee (instead of short skirts, shorts or trousers). As clothing that reveals too much skin is regarded as inappropriate, women are also required to cover their shoulders, by either wearing a t-shirt or shirt.
- Should I use Travellers cheques, cash or credit cards while in Greece?
As a start we would recommend carrying a small cash balance with you upon departure from your country. An amount of 200 Euro will typically suffice to cover any current or unexpected expenses once you arrive in Greece.
Keep in mind that even though credit cards are widely used throughout Greece (especially in Athens), during your TrueGreece experience you may be visiting remote locations and small villages on the islands, where credit cards are not accepted. We would therefore recommend carrying small cash amounts with you at all times while in Greece.
There are plenty of ATM machines in Athens, as well as on the islands, so using your debit card to withdraw cash on regular intervals is more preferable than carrying large cash amounts. We would however recommend consulting with your local branch before your trip to ensure that you will be able to use your debit card while in Greece. Additionally make sure that you are informed of any additional fees for use of your debit card abroad (if any).
Travellers’ cheques are not widely accepted in Greece either by banks or shops and are therefore not recommended.
- What is the voltage and plug type in Greece?
Electricity in Greece is supplied at 220 volts AC at a frequency of 50 Hz. An adaptor for the “Schuko” plugs used in Greece will be necessary as well as a transformer if your electrical appliances are not designed to receive 220 volts.
These inexpensive items (which may be combined in one device) may be purchased from any electrical store or at the airport before your departure to Greece. Please note that most of the hotels used by TrueGreece are equipped with hair dryers.
- What are the luggage restrictions for domestic flights?
According to airline policy the free baggage allowance for domestic flights is 15 kg for each passenger. For domestic flights, there is a € 2 charge for each additional (excess) kg.
Each passenger is also allowed one-piece of cabin baggage which should not exceed the size of 55cm length Χ 40cm height Χ 20cm width and total weight of 8 kg.
- I am allergic to certain insect bites and foods. What kind of medical facilities and medical cover is available in Greece?
Although during the summer months you may find the presence of mosquitoes and other insects on the islands, in general they do not pose a threat to humans. We recommend bringing your own mosquito repellent, even though some hotels do offer plug-in repellents.
If on the other hand you are allergic to certain food stuffs we strongly recommend that you speak to your local GP (doctor) before departing so that you may be informed of any necessary emergency information or procedures. Additionally we also strongly recommend that you inform all restaurants, coffee shops, and hotels of any food allergies you may have.
Medical facilities in major cities (Athens, Chania, Heraklion etc) are excellent, with various hospitals and pharmacies operating on a 24 hour basis. On smaller islands local medical centres handle medical emergencies.
We advise all our guests to purchase medical insurance for trips abroad. UK Nationals visiting Greece should be in possession of a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). For further information please visit the Department of Health web site www.dh.gov.uk.
Please let us know: If you have a physical disability or require frequent or on-going medical attention, please advise TrueGreece of your health situation at the time you book-or at the onset of any new condition prior to your departure.
- Will I be able to use my PC while in Greece? Will I be able to access the internet while in Greece?
If you choose to bring your lap top computer to Greece, please remember that electricity in Greece is supplied at 220 volts AC at a frequency of 50 Hz. Additionally you will need an adaptor for the “Schuko” plugs used in Greece as well as a transformer if your lap top is not designed to receive 220 volts.
Most of the hotels included in the TrueGreece portfolio either have hard line internet access (where you will have to unplug the telephone and plug in your computer) or wireless internet access. In the rare occasions that you may not be able to access the internet via your own computer some hotels will have PC’s with internet access.
Additionally keep in mind that there are also plenty of internet cafes both on the islands and Athens where you may access the internet, or copy pictures from your digital camera to a CD.
- How can I call home from Greece? How can I be contacted in Greece from home?
The international telephone code for the United Kingdom is 0044 followed by the phone number, without the first zero (e.g. 0044207). Please do not forget when calling home that Greece is two hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). Although you may call from the hotel please keep in mind that on occasion there may be a surcharge for calls made. For a more economical solution, we would recommend using the Hellenic Telecommunications Organisation (OTE) public telephone boxes which are abundant both in Athens and on the islands. The OTE public telephone boxes only accept phone cards which you may purchase from any local kiosk or newsagents.
The international dialling code for Greece, when calling from abroad is +30. For hotel contact information please visit the hotel web sites or contact our TrueGreece consultants.
- Will I be able to use my mobile phone while in Greece?
The mobile phone operators in Greece use a GSM network so you should be able to use your mobile phone while in Greece through roaming. We strongly recommend that you contact the customer services department of your mobile telecommunications provider and enquire about switching on this function and any additional charges associated with this feature.
Keep in mind that even though you will be travelling throughout the Aegean and visiting secluded islands, mobile phone coverage in Greece is excellent.
- What new security measures apply for airline travel?
As of November 2006 all flights departing the UK, and all flights within the European Union (including domestic flights within Greece) are subject to the security changes concerning liquids and travel baggage arrangements.
Due to the extremely strict security measures there are restrictions on the quantity of liquids (if any) that can be taken through the security check points. For further information please visit the UK’s Central Office of Information web page www.direct.gov.uk or the European Commission web page on transportation and airport security http://ec.europa.eu/transport/air_portal/security/rules_liquids/index_en.htm
Please do not forget that the above security measures apply to all airports within the EU, with no exceptions.
- Do restrictions apply on bringing specific foods or plants back from holiday?
Before travelling please contact the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) for detailed information on personal food and plant imports. For further information visit the DEFRA web site: www.defra.gov.uk or call the DEFRA Helpline on 08459 335577.
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