Greece Tourists Warned About Euros

Greece Tourists Warned About Euros
|

British tourists heading to Greece are being warned to take euros in cash as the country's financial situation remains precarious in the wake of the Greek people's No vote in the debt deal referendum.

Withdrawals have been limited to 60 euros a day for locals as cash reserves in the country reach a critical level amid fears that the country is heading towards economic collapse.

The nation's rejection of creditors' terms for a bailout deal leaves the country's future in the EU hanging in the balance, with commentators warning of a catastrophic financial crash that could send it spinning out of the single currency.

Banks closed on June 28 and will stay shut until at least the close of business today, according to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO).

The latest advice from the FCO said: "Visitors to Greece should be aware of the possibility that banking services, including credit card processing and servicing of ATMs, throughout Greece could potentially become limited at short notice.

"At this time, you can continue to withdraw cash using your card as normal, up to the daily limit imposed by the Greek banking system, usually 600 euro, or the daily limit imposed by your card issuer, as long as the ATM has been replenished.

"While banks are closed in Greece and some withdrawals are limited, make sure you take sufficient euros in cash to cover the duration of your stay, emergencies, unforeseen circumstances and any unexpected delays."

Tourists are also being warned about potential dangers to their personal safety with regular demonstrations and strikes taking place.

"You should take appropriate security precautions against theft," the FCO said.

"There are regular strikes. These are sometimes called at short notice and can cause disruption to public transport in and out of Greece, including air travel and ports.

"Demonstrations take place regularly in central Athens, and have also taken place in other towns and cities."

Ahead of the referendum, the Association of British Travel Agents (Abta) said there are "mixed reports" about the availability of cash from ATMs.

"We advise holidaymakers and travellers heading out to Greece this summer to take enough euros in cash to cover all of their needs," a spokesman said.

"Holidaymakers should check how much cash their travel insurance policy covers them for and should take appropriate security precautions against theft such as using their hotel safe or splitting cash up between their party.

"Reports from our members and holidaymakers on the ground suggest that it is very much business as usual in Greece and we have no indication that holidaymakers will be disrupted."