Capital: Athens
Location:
Southern Europe, bordering the Aegean Sea, Ionian Sea, and the Mediterranean Sea, between Albania and Turkey (slightly smaller than Alabama)
Registration Embassy and Consulate:
Americans living in or visiting Greece are encouraged to register at the consular section of the U.S. Embassy/Consulate General and to obtain updated information on travel and security in Greece. The U.S. Embassy in Athens is located at 91 Vasilissis Sophias Boulevard, tel: (30)(1) 721-2951. The U.S. Consulate General in Thessaloniki is located at Plateia Commercial Center, 43 Tsimiski Street, 7th floor, tel: (30)(31) 242-905. The Embassy's website is http://www.usisathens.gr. The e-mail address for the consular section is consul@global.net. The e-mail address for the U.S. Consulate General Thessaloniki is cons@compulink.gr.
Background:
Greece achieved its independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1829. During the second half of the 19th century and the first half of the 20th century, it gradually added neighboring islands and territories with Greek-speaking populations. Following the defeat of communist rebels in 1949, Greece joined NATO in 1952. A military dictatorship, which in 1967 suspended many political liberties and forced the king to flee the country, lasted seven years. Democratic elections in 1974 and a referendum created a parliamentary republic and abolished the monarchy; Greece joined the European Community or EC in 1981 (which became the EU in 1992).
Ethnic Groups:
Greek 98%, other 2%
note: the Greek Government states there are no ethnic divisions in Greece
Language:
Greek 99% (official), English, French
Currency:
GRD; EUR
drachma (GRD); euro (EUR)
note: on 1 January 1999, the EU introduced the euro as a common currency that is now being used by financial institutions in Greece (which entered the European Monetary Union on 1 January 2001) at a fixed rate of 340.750 drachmae per euro and will replace the local currency for all transactions in 2002
drachmae per US dollar - 380.21 (December 2000), 365.40 (2000), 305.65 (1999), 295.53 (1998), 273.06 (1997), 240.71 (1996)
Climate:
Temperate; mild, wet winters; hot, dry summers
Population:
10,623,835 (July 2001 est.)
Religion:
Greek Orthodox 98%, Muslim 1.3%, other 0.7%
Medical:
Medical facilities are adequate, and some in Athens and Thessaloniki are quite good, though nursing care, particularly in public hospitals, may be less than adequate.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States. U.S. Medicare and Medicaid programs do not provide payment for medical services outside the United States. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services. Uninsured travelers who require medical care overseas may face extreme difficulties.
Check with your own insurance company to confirm whether your policy applies overseas, including provision for medical evacuation, and for adequacy of coverage. Serious medical problems requiring hospitalization and/or medical evacuation to the United States can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Ascertain whether payment will be made to the overseas hospital or doctor or whether you will be reimbursed later for expenses you incur. Some insurance policies also include coverage for psychiatric treatment and for disposition of remains in the event of death.
Safety:
Civil disorder is rare. However several active terrorist groups, including the "17 November" organization, have at times targeted U.S. and western government and commercial interests, as for example in 1999 when terrorists bombed a major international chain hotel perceived to have American ties. Prominent Greek businessmen, journalists, and politicians have also been targeted. In a June 8, 2000 terrorist attack, the British Defense Attaché was murdered. The potential for terrorist activities against U.S. and commercial interests remains high. There have been no specific threats against private American citizens traveling in Greece. Travelers should nevertheless review their security practices and be alert to their surroundings. The Consular Affairs home page provides updated information whenever there is a need to alert Americans to a specific situation.
Traffic Safety:
While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below concerning Greece is provided for general reference only and may not be accurate in a particular location or circumstance.
Safety of Public Transportation:
Good
Urban Road Condition/Maintenance:
Good
Rural Road Condition/Maintenance:
Fair
Availability of Roadside Assistance:
Poor
Visitors to Greece must be prepared to drive defensively. Heavy traffic and poor highways pose hazards, especially at night. Extreme care is warranted in operating a motorbike. The majority of U.S. citizen traffic casualties in Greece have involved motorbikes. Drivers must carry a valid U.S. license as well as an international driver's permit. The U.S. Department of State has authorized two organizations to issue international driving permits to those who hold valid U.S. driver's licenses: AAA and the American Automobile Touring Alliance. Vehicles may be rented without the permit, but the driver will be penalized for failure to have one in the event of an accident. Fines are high. Small motorbike rental firms frequently do not insure their vehicles; the customer is responsible for damages. Review your coverage before renting.
