Europe

Terrorism

 

There is a general threat from anarchist-related domestic terrorism, which has been on the increase in recent months. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

 

There is a history of domestic terrorism in Greece.  High profile British interests in Greece should  remain vigilant and regularly review their security measures.  No attacks have been directed against British tourists, nor have tourist areas been affected.

Domestic anarchist groups remain active and the number and scale of attacks have increased since the shooting of a Greek teenager in December 2008, and the serious riots that followed. Local press speculate that disturbances may take place in major urban centres in the run up to the first anniversary of the riots. Primarily, these attacks have involved the use of explosive devices against Greek institutions and commercial interests.  Latterly, some attacks have included the use of automatic weapons against police personnel and their facilities. Commercial and media establishments have also been targeted, and up-market shopping areas are seen by the anarchists as legitimate targets.

There have been reports of an attack against a police station in the Athens suburb of Agla Paraskevi around 22:00 on 27 October. Six police officers have been reported as having been injured.
 

For more general information see Terrorism abroad.

 

Crime

 

Most visits to Greece are trouble-free, but you should be aware that the tourist season attracts an increase in incidents of theft of wallets, handbags etc. particularly in areas and events where crowds gather.  You should leave valuables in safe custody at your hotel or apartment.

 

Personal attacks, including sexual assaults and rape, are generally infrequent in Greece.  However, this is not the case in some holiday resorts frequented by large numbers of youth tourists.  In 2007 Greece was one of the countries with the highest number of cases reported to our Consular staff of British nationals who were the victim of a serious sexual offence. In some of these cases those alleged to have carried out these offences were also British Nationals. In many cases excessive consumption of alcohol by either the victim or the offender preceded the incident.  For more general information see Rape and sexual assault abroad.

 

You are therefore advised to maintain at least the same level of personal security awareness as in the UK. Be aware that alcohol and drugs can lead to you being less alert, less in control and less aware of your environment.  If you are going to drink, know your limit.  Remember that drinks served in bars overseas are often stronger than those in the UK.  We advise lone visitors, in particular, never to accept lifts from strangers or passing acquaintances at any time.

 

For more general information see Victims of crime abroad.

 

Political Situation

 
Greece Country Profile

 

Greece is a stable democracy, however, public protests are a standard feature of Greek political life. You should take precautions for your personal safety and avoid public gatherings and demonstrations, which have the potential to turn violent and are often quelled with tear gas.

 

Local Travel

Generally there are no local travel restrictions, but you should be aware that certain areas near the Greek borders are militarily sensitive.  Although these areas can be visited without any problems, do not take photographs or make notes near military or official installations.  In addition, travellers should seek permission before photographing individuals.

Road Travel

 

In 2007 there were 1,580 road deaths in Greece (source: DfT). This equates to 14.4 road deaths per 100,000 of population and compares to the UK average of 5.0 road deaths per 100,000 of population in 2007

 

You are advised not to hire motorcycles, scooters, mopeds or quad bikes, as accidents involving these forms of transport are common and can often result in very serious or even fatal injury.  You should check that your travel insurance covers you for the relevant activity (for more advice see travel insurance) and you should note that failure to wear a crash helmet might invalidate your travel insurance if you are involved in an accident.

 

If you intend to hire a moped you should be aware that you would require a valid driving licence with at least category A1 - 'light motorcycle` for this purpose.  Category P, which is valid in the UK for driving mopeds up to 50cc is not valid in Greece.  Greek law requires you to wear a crash helmet on a scooter, moped or motorcycle. You may be arrested if you do not.

 

You should be aware that when hiring a vehicle, hire companies will often demand your passport as a form of security. You are advised not to hand over your passport under any circumstance. You should also check any waiver which will come into effect if the vehicle is damaged.

 

Quad bike riders require a full-face helmet (or non-full-face helmet plus goggles) under Greek law.  Road insurance and a motorcycle licence are also mandatory.

 

For more general information see Driving abroad.

 

Air travel

 

The revised EU-wide security measures that came into effect for all passengers departing from UK airports in November 2006 are also being implemented in Greece.  For more details about this see Airline security.