Delenda Carthago
19th January 2010, 10:34
The U.S. Embassy would like to draw your attention to the recently
updated Country Specific Information sheet for Greece, including the
section on Safety and Security. Recent attacks, such as Saturday
night's bomb which exploded outside of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
on Syntagma Square, underscore the importance of exercising security
awareness.
Country Specific Information sheets and other resources for Americans
living or traveling abroad are available at http://travel.state.gov/
----------------
Greece
Country Specific Information
January 13, 2010
COUNTRY DESCRIPTION: Greece is a developed and stable democracy with a
modern economy. Tourist facilities are widely available. Read the
Department of State Background Notes on Greece
<http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/3395.htm> for additional information.
REGISTRATION / EMBASSY LOCATION: U.S. citizens living or traveling in
Greece are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate at the Department of State's travel registration page
<https://travelregistration.state.gov/> in order to obtain updated
information on local travel and security. U.S. citizens without
Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate. Registration is important; it allows the State Department to
assist U.S. citizens in an emergency.
Local embassy information is available below and at the Department of
State's list of embassies and consulates <http://usembassy.gov/> .
U. S. Embassy Athens Greece <http://athens.usembassy.gov/>
91 Vasilissis Sophias Boulevard
Telephone: (30) (210) 721-2951
Emergency after-hours telephone: (30) (210) 729-4444 or (30) (210)
729-4301
Facsimile: (30) (210) 724-5313
U.S. Consulate General in Thessaloniki
<http://thessaloniki.usconsulate.gov/>
Plateia Commercial Center
43 Tsimiski Street, 7th floor
Telephone: (30) (2310) 242-905
ENTRY / EXIT REQUIREMENTS: Greece is a party to the Schengen agreement.
As such, U.S. citizens may enter Greece for up to 90 days for tourist or
business purposes without a visa. The passport should be valid for at
least three months beyond the period of stay. For further details about
travel into and within Schengen countries, please see our Schengen fact
sheet <http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_4361.html> .
For other entry requirements, travelers should contact the Embassy of
Greece at 2221 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008, telephone
(202) 939-5800, or Greek consulates in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago,
Houston, Los Angeles, Tampa, New York, and San Francisco, and Greek
embassies and consulates around the world. Visit the Embassy of Greece
<http://www.greekembassy.org/Embassy/content/en/Root.aspx?office=1>
website for the most current visa information.
Holders of official or diplomatic passports visiting Greece as tourists
must obtain visas prior to arrival. Visit the Embassy of Greece web
site for the most current visa information.
The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry
restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Greece.
Information about dual nationality
<http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1753.html> or the
prevention of international child abduction
<http://travel.state.gov/family/abduction/abduction_580.html> can be
found on our website. For further information about customs
regulations, please read our Customs Information page
<http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1468.html> .
SAFETY AND SECURITY: The U.S. Government remains deeply concerned about
the heightened threat of terrorist attacks against U.S. citizens and
interests abroad. Like other countries that are members of the Schengen
Agreement for free cross-border movement, Greece's open borders with
other members of the EU's Schengen zone allow the possibility of
terrorist groups entering/exiting the country with anonymity. As the
first entry point into Schengen from points south and east, Greece's
long coastline and many islands also heighten the possibility that
foreign-based terrorists might try to enter Europe through Greece's
borders.
Domestic terrorist organizations such as Revolutionary Struggle and
"Sect of Revolutionaries" have become increasingly active against both
domestic and foreign targets in Greece. Recent attacks and attempted
attacks have included the use of Molotov cocktails (gasoline bombs),
small arms and rifle fire, and improvised explosive devices, the largest
being a 100-kilo ammonium nitrate car bomb detonated at the Athens Stock
Exchange. The Greek police forces, other Greek governmental agencies,
private American and Greek businesses, and the United States Embassy
have been attacked in the last three years. Recent attacks have
occurred with shorter warning times and have had a higher potential for
an indiscriminate impact. The risk of "being in the wrong place at the
wrong time" in the event of a terrorist action is a concern for
residents and visitors. In January 2010, a bomb exploded at 8:00 pm near
the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier on Syntagma square, a site popular with
tourists until late evening. U.S. tourists or residents in Greece
should remain vigilant, exercise caution, and monitor local
developments.
Strikes and demonstrations are a regular occurrence. Greece is a stable
democracy and these activities for the most part are orderly and lawful.
However, a wave of incidents started when a teenager was shot and
killed in an encounter with the police n December 2008. Incidents
occurred throughout Greece, but the primary sources of violence were in
Athens and Thessaloniki. Protestors engaged in violent confrontations
with the police and carried out destructive vandalism and rioting in
localized areas, some of which are areas frequented by tourists,
injuring numerous police officers.
Riot control procedures often include the use of tear gas. Visitors
should keep abreast of news about demonstrations from local news sources
and hotel security. When there are demonstrations, visitors should be
aware of and avoid places where demonstrators frequently congregate,
such as the Polytechnic University area, Exarchia, Omonia, and Syntagma
Squares in Athens, and Aristotle Square in Thessaloniki. University
campuses are exploited as refuges by anarchists and those involved in
crime and Greek police are generally prohibited from entering their
premises. The Omonia and Exharchia areas of Athens are at particular
risk for crime and politically-motivated violence; U.S. Embassy
personnel and their families have been urged strongly to avoid these
areas between 9 pm and dawn. Visitors should be aware that
demonstrations occur annually on November 17th, the anniversary of the
1973 student uprising against the military regime in power at the time.
Information regarding demonstrations which have been brought to the
attention of the U.S. Embassy can be found on the Embassy web site
<http://athens.usembassy.gov/demonstrations_ann.html> . For the latest
security information, U.S. citizens traveling abroad should regularly
monitor the Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs website
<http://travel.state.gov/> , which contains current the Travel Warnings
and Travel Alerts
<http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis_pa_tw_1168.html> as well
as the Worldwide Caution
<http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/pa/pa_1161.html> .
Up-to-date information on safety and security can also be obtained by
calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free within the U.S. and Canada, or by
calling a regular toll line, 1-202-501-4444, from other countries.
These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time,
Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
The Department of State urges U.S. citizens to take responsibility for
their own personal security while traveling overseas. For general
information about appropriate measures travelers can take to protect
themselves in an overseas environment, see the Department of State's
extensive tips and advice on traveling safely abroad
<http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/safety/safety_1747.html> .
CRIME: Crimes against tourists (such as purse-snatching and
pick-pocketing) have occurred at popular tourist sites and on crowded
public transportation. Pick-pocketing is especially common on the
Athens metro and in some shopping areas in and around Thessaloniki.
Omonia, Vathi and Kolokotroni Squares in Athens are areas of high crime
rates; Glyfada Square has a significant organized crime network
associated with clubs, which should be avoided if "hard sell"
solicitations for business are made at the door. Reports of date or
acquaintance rape also occasionally occur. The usual safety precautions
practiced in any urban or tourist area should be practiced during a
visit to Greece.
In many countries around the world, counterfeit and pirated goods are
widely available. Transactions involving such products may be illegal
under local law. In addition, bringing them back to the United States
may result in forfeitures and/or fines.
INFORMATION FOR VICTIMS OF CRIME: If you are the victim of a crime
abroad, you should contact the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy
or consulate (see the Department of State's list of embassies and
consulates <http://usembassy.gov/> ). This includes the loss or theft
of a U.S. passport. The embassy/consulate staff can, for example, help
you find appropriate medical care, contact family members or friends and
explain how funds may be transferred. Although the investigation and
prosecution of the crime are solely the responsibility of local
authorities, consular officers can help you to understand the local
criminal justice process and to find an attorney if needed.
The local equivalents to the "911" emergency line in Greece are 100 for
the Police, 112 for life-treatening emergencies 166 for an Ambulance,
and 199 for the Fire Brigade.
Please see our information on victims of crime
<http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/emergencies/emergencies_1748.html>
, including possible victim compensation programs in the United States.
CRIMINAL PENALTIES: While in a foreign country, a U.S. citizen is
subject to that country's laws and regulations, which sometimes differ
significantly from those in the United States and may not afford the
protections available to the individual under U.S. law. Penalties for
breaking the law can be more severe than in the United States for
similar offenses. Engaging in sexual conduct with children or using or
disseminating child pornography in a foreign country is a crime
prosecutable in the United States.
<http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1467.html>
Persons violating Greek laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled,
arrested, or imprisoned. Penalties for possessing, using, or
trafficking in illegal drugs in Greece are severe, and convicted
offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.
SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES: Greek customs authorities have strict regulations
concerning the export from Greece of antiquities, including rocks from
archaeological sites. Penalties range from large fines to prison terms.
It is advisable to contact the Embassy of Greece in Washington, or one
of Greece's consulates in the United States, for specific information
regarding customs requirements. Please see our Customs Information
<http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1468.html> .
In addition to being subject to all Greek laws affecting U.S. citizens,
dual nationals may also be subject to other laws that impose special
obligations on Greek citizens. Greek males between the ages of 20 and
45 are required by Greek law to perform military service. This applies
to any individual whom the Greek authorities consider to be Greek,
regardless of whether or not the individual considers himself Greek, has
a foreign citizenship and passport, or was born or lives outside of
Greece. If remaining in Greece for more than the 90-day period
permitted for tourism or business, men of Greek descent may be prevented
from leaving Greece until they complete their military obligations.
Generally, obligatory non-voluntary military service in Greece will not
affect US citizenship. Specific questions on this subject should be
addressed to the citizenship section of the US Embassy in Athens. For
additional information, see our information on Citizenship and
Nationality. For additional information regarding military service
requirements, contact the nearest Greek embassy or consulate as listed
above.
Labor strikes in the transportation sector (national airline, city bus
lines, and taxis) occur frequently. Most are announced in advance and
are of short duration. Reconfirmation of domestic and international
flight reservations is highly recommended.
Users of public transportation in Athens should be sure to buy the
appropriate ticket and to validate it correctly, mindful that service to
the airport is more expensive than other bus and metro services and that
ticket inspectors circulate among passengers assuring compliance with
ticketing regulations. Fines are heavy for passengers without tickets
or with the wrong ticket.
The Government of Greece does not permit the photographing of military
installations; violators are subject to arrest.
Disaster Preparedness:
Greece often experiences serious forest fires during the summer, when
travelers should be particularly mindful of the risk of fires, taking
care not to inadvertently spark one through carelessness.
Greece experiences frequent seismic activity; tremors are common and
serious earthquakes have occurred. Detailed information on Greece's
earthquake fault lines is available from the U.S. Geological Survey
(USGS).
Disaster preparedness information and specific suggestions to help
mitigate the impact of wildfires, and earthquakes is available from the
U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). In any natural
disaster, follow the instructions of local authorities. The General
Secretariat for Civil Protection, which responds to emergencies, can be
reached at 210-3359932/33.
MEDICAL FACILITIES AND HEALTH INFORMATION: Medical facilities are
adequate, and some, particularly the private clinics and hospitals in
Athens and Thessaloniki, are quite good. Some private hospitals have
affiliations with U.S. facilities, and generally their staff doctors
have been trained in U.S. or other international teaching institutions.
Public medical clinics, especially on the islands, may lack resources;
care there can be inadequate by American standards, and often, little
English is spoken. Many patients, Greeks and visitors alike, are
transferred from the provinces and islands to Athens hospitals for more
sophisticated care. Others may choose to transfer from a public to a
private hospital within Athens or Thessaloniki. Americans choosing to
do so would arrange for an ambulance belonging to the private hospital
to transport them from the public hospital to the private one. The cost
of the ambulance for this transfer, as well as all expenses in a private
hospital, must be borne by the patient.
Nursing care, particularly in public hospitals, may be less than
adequate. For special or through-the-night nursing care, it is
suggested that a private nurse be hired or a family member or friend be
available to assist. One parent or a private nurse should always plan
to stay with a hospitalized child on a 24-hour basis, as even the best
hospitals generally maintain only a minimal nursing staff from midnight
to dawn on non-emergency floors or wards.
Information on vaccinations and other health precautions, such as safe
food and water precautions and insect bite protection, may be obtained
from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) hotline for
international travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747) or via the
CDC website <http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/default.aspx> . For information
about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad, consult the infectious
diseases section of the World Health Organization (WHO) website
<http://www.who.int/topics/infectious_diseases/en/> . The WHO website
also contains additional health information for travelers, including
detailed country-specific health information
<http://www.who.int/countries/en/> .
MEDICAL INSURANCE: The Department of State strongly urges U.S. citizens
to consult their medical insurance company prior to traveling abroad to
determine whether the policy applies overseas and whether it covers
emergency expenses such as a medical evacuation. For more information,
please see our medical insurance overseas page
<http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1470.html> .
TRAFFIC SAFETY AND ROAD CONDITIONS: 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 totally accurate in
a particular location or circumstance.
Drivers and pedestrians alike should exercise extreme caution when
operating motor vehicles or when walking along roadways or crossing
streets, mindful that Greece's traffic fatality rates are the fourth
highest in the 27 nations which make up the European Union. Visitors to
Greece must be prepared to drive defensively. Heavy traffic and poor
highways pose hazards, especially at night or in inclement weather.
Extreme care is warranted in operating a motorbike. Moreover, tourists
who rent motorbikes either on the Greek mainland or its islands must
wear helmets and take special precautions on local roads that are
typically poorly maintained and frequently pothole-ridden. There are a
number of nationwide auto-service clubs and plans similar to those in
the U.S., that provide towing and roadside service, which a tourist can
call and pay for per service. The largest, quite similar to AAA, is
ELPA, nation-wide phone number 10400.
Tourists and temporary residents who will stay in Greece less than 185
days must carry a valid U.S. license as well as an international
driver's permit (IDP). Failure to have both documents may result in
police detention or other problems. The U.S. Department of State has
designated two organizations to issue IDPs to those who hold valid U.S.
driver's licenses: AAA and the American Automobile Touring Alliance.
Issuance of an IDP is quickand inexpensive, but must generally be done
before a traveler leaves the United States. Vehicles may not properly
be rented without the IDP, although sometimes they are. A driver
without one, however, will be penalized for failure to have one in the
event of an accident, and may be open to civil suit as well. Fines are
high. Small motorbike rental firms frequently do not insure their
vehicles; customers are responsible for damages and should review their
coverage before renting. Individuals who expect to spend more than 185
days in Greece should either obtain a Greek license or convert their
valid U.S. license for use in Greece through their local Nomarchy's
Office of Transportation and Communications.
Please refer to our Road Safety page
<http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/safety/safety_1179.html> for more
information. Also, we suggest that you visit the website of the
country's national tourist office <http://www.gnto.gr/> .
AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration
(FAA) has assessed the government of Greece's Civil Aviation Authority
as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization
(ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Greece's air carrier
operations. Further information may be found on the FAA's safety
assessment page <http://www.faa.gov/about/initiatives/iasa/> .
CHILDREN'S ISSUES: Please see our Office of Children's Issues web pages
on intercountry adoption <http://adoption.state.gov/> and international
parental child abduction
<http://travel.state.gov/family/abduction/abduction_580.html> .
* * *
This replaces the Country Specific Information for Greece dated March
12, 2009, to update sections on Threats to Safety and Security, Crime,
Victim of Crime, Special Circumstances, Disaster Preparedness, and
Traffic Safety and Road Conditions.
This email is UNCLASSIFIED.
:laugh::laugh:
updated Country Specific Information sheet for Greece, including the
section on Safety and Security. Recent attacks, such as Saturday
night's bomb which exploded outside of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
on Syntagma Square, underscore the importance of exercising security
awareness.
Country Specific Information sheets and other resources for Americans
living or traveling abroad are available at http://travel.state.gov/
----------------
Greece
Country Specific Information
January 13, 2010
COUNTRY DESCRIPTION: Greece is a developed and stable democracy with a
modern economy. Tourist facilities are widely available. Read the
Department of State Background Notes on Greece
<http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/3395.htm> for additional information.
REGISTRATION / EMBASSY LOCATION: U.S. citizens living or traveling in
Greece are encouraged to register with the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate at the Department of State's travel registration page
<https://travelregistration.state.gov/> in order to obtain updated
information on local travel and security. U.S. citizens without
Internet access may register directly with the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate. Registration is important; it allows the State Department to
assist U.S. citizens in an emergency.
Local embassy information is available below and at the Department of
State's list of embassies and consulates <http://usembassy.gov/> .
U. S. Embassy Athens Greece <http://athens.usembassy.gov/>
91 Vasilissis Sophias Boulevard
Telephone: (30) (210) 721-2951
Emergency after-hours telephone: (30) (210) 729-4444 or (30) (210)
729-4301
Facsimile: (30) (210) 724-5313
U.S. Consulate General in Thessaloniki
<http://thessaloniki.usconsulate.gov/>
Plateia Commercial Center
43 Tsimiski Street, 7th floor
Telephone: (30) (2310) 242-905
ENTRY / EXIT REQUIREMENTS: Greece is a party to the Schengen agreement.
As such, U.S. citizens may enter Greece for up to 90 days for tourist or
business purposes without a visa. The passport should be valid for at
least three months beyond the period of stay. For further details about
travel into and within Schengen countries, please see our Schengen fact
sheet <http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_4361.html> .
For other entry requirements, travelers should contact the Embassy of
Greece at 2221 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008, telephone
(202) 939-5800, or Greek consulates in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago,
Houston, Los Angeles, Tampa, New York, and San Francisco, and Greek
embassies and consulates around the world. Visit the Embassy of Greece
<http://www.greekembassy.org/Embassy/content/en/Root.aspx?office=1>
website for the most current visa information.
Holders of official or diplomatic passports visiting Greece as tourists
must obtain visas prior to arrival. Visit the Embassy of Greece web
site for the most current visa information.
The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry
restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Greece.
Information about dual nationality
<http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1753.html> or the
prevention of international child abduction
<http://travel.state.gov/family/abduction/abduction_580.html> can be
found on our website. For further information about customs
regulations, please read our Customs Information page
<http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1468.html> .
SAFETY AND SECURITY: The U.S. Government remains deeply concerned about
the heightened threat of terrorist attacks against U.S. citizens and
interests abroad. Like other countries that are members of the Schengen
Agreement for free cross-border movement, Greece's open borders with
other members of the EU's Schengen zone allow the possibility of
terrorist groups entering/exiting the country with anonymity. As the
first entry point into Schengen from points south and east, Greece's
long coastline and many islands also heighten the possibility that
foreign-based terrorists might try to enter Europe through Greece's
borders.
Domestic terrorist organizations such as Revolutionary Struggle and
"Sect of Revolutionaries" have become increasingly active against both
domestic and foreign targets in Greece. Recent attacks and attempted
attacks have included the use of Molotov cocktails (gasoline bombs),
small arms and rifle fire, and improvised explosive devices, the largest
being a 100-kilo ammonium nitrate car bomb detonated at the Athens Stock
Exchange. The Greek police forces, other Greek governmental agencies,
private American and Greek businesses, and the United States Embassy
have been attacked in the last three years. Recent attacks have
occurred with shorter warning times and have had a higher potential for
an indiscriminate impact. The risk of "being in the wrong place at the
wrong time" in the event of a terrorist action is a concern for
residents and visitors. In January 2010, a bomb exploded at 8:00 pm near
the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier on Syntagma square, a site popular with
tourists until late evening. U.S. tourists or residents in Greece
should remain vigilant, exercise caution, and monitor local
developments.
Strikes and demonstrations are a regular occurrence. Greece is a stable
democracy and these activities for the most part are orderly and lawful.
However, a wave of incidents started when a teenager was shot and
killed in an encounter with the police n December 2008. Incidents
occurred throughout Greece, but the primary sources of violence were in
Athens and Thessaloniki. Protestors engaged in violent confrontations
with the police and carried out destructive vandalism and rioting in
localized areas, some of which are areas frequented by tourists,
injuring numerous police officers.
Riot control procedures often include the use of tear gas. Visitors
should keep abreast of news about demonstrations from local news sources
and hotel security. When there are demonstrations, visitors should be
aware of and avoid places where demonstrators frequently congregate,
such as the Polytechnic University area, Exarchia, Omonia, and Syntagma
Squares in Athens, and Aristotle Square in Thessaloniki. University
campuses are exploited as refuges by anarchists and those involved in
crime and Greek police are generally prohibited from entering their
premises. The Omonia and Exharchia areas of Athens are at particular
risk for crime and politically-motivated violence; U.S. Embassy
personnel and their families have been urged strongly to avoid these
areas between 9 pm and dawn. Visitors should be aware that
demonstrations occur annually on November 17th, the anniversary of the
1973 student uprising against the military regime in power at the time.
Information regarding demonstrations which have been brought to the
attention of the U.S. Embassy can be found on the Embassy web site
<http://athens.usembassy.gov/demonstrations_ann.html> . For the latest
security information, U.S. citizens traveling abroad should regularly
monitor the Department of State's Bureau of Consular Affairs website
<http://travel.state.gov/> , which contains current the Travel Warnings
and Travel Alerts
<http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis_pa_tw_1168.html> as well
as the Worldwide Caution
<http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/pa/pa_1161.html> .
Up-to-date information on safety and security can also be obtained by
calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free within the U.S. and Canada, or by
calling a regular toll line, 1-202-501-4444, from other countries.
These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time,
Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
The Department of State urges U.S. citizens to take responsibility for
their own personal security while traveling overseas. For general
information about appropriate measures travelers can take to protect
themselves in an overseas environment, see the Department of State's
extensive tips and advice on traveling safely abroad
<http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/safety/safety_1747.html> .
CRIME: Crimes against tourists (such as purse-snatching and
pick-pocketing) have occurred at popular tourist sites and on crowded
public transportation. Pick-pocketing is especially common on the
Athens metro and in some shopping areas in and around Thessaloniki.
Omonia, Vathi and Kolokotroni Squares in Athens are areas of high crime
rates; Glyfada Square has a significant organized crime network
associated with clubs, which should be avoided if "hard sell"
solicitations for business are made at the door. Reports of date or
acquaintance rape also occasionally occur. The usual safety precautions
practiced in any urban or tourist area should be practiced during a
visit to Greece.
In many countries around the world, counterfeit and pirated goods are
widely available. Transactions involving such products may be illegal
under local law. In addition, bringing them back to the United States
may result in forfeitures and/or fines.
INFORMATION FOR VICTIMS OF CRIME: If you are the victim of a crime
abroad, you should contact the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy
or consulate (see the Department of State's list of embassies and
consulates <http://usembassy.gov/> ). This includes the loss or theft
of a U.S. passport. The embassy/consulate staff can, for example, help
you find appropriate medical care, contact family members or friends and
explain how funds may be transferred. Although the investigation and
prosecution of the crime are solely the responsibility of local
authorities, consular officers can help you to understand the local
criminal justice process and to find an attorney if needed.
The local equivalents to the "911" emergency line in Greece are 100 for
the Police, 112 for life-treatening emergencies 166 for an Ambulance,
and 199 for the Fire Brigade.
Please see our information on victims of crime
<http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/emergencies/emergencies_1748.html>
, including possible victim compensation programs in the United States.
CRIMINAL PENALTIES: While in a foreign country, a U.S. citizen is
subject to that country's laws and regulations, which sometimes differ
significantly from those in the United States and may not afford the
protections available to the individual under U.S. law. Penalties for
breaking the law can be more severe than in the United States for
similar offenses. Engaging in sexual conduct with children or using or
disseminating child pornography in a foreign country is a crime
prosecutable in the United States.
<http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1467.html>
Persons violating Greek laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled,
arrested, or imprisoned. Penalties for possessing, using, or
trafficking in illegal drugs in Greece are severe, and convicted
offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines.
SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES: Greek customs authorities have strict regulations
concerning the export from Greece of antiquities, including rocks from
archaeological sites. Penalties range from large fines to prison terms.
It is advisable to contact the Embassy of Greece in Washington, or one
of Greece's consulates in the United States, for specific information
regarding customs requirements. Please see our Customs Information
<http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1468.html> .
In addition to being subject to all Greek laws affecting U.S. citizens,
dual nationals may also be subject to other laws that impose special
obligations on Greek citizens. Greek males between the ages of 20 and
45 are required by Greek law to perform military service. This applies
to any individual whom the Greek authorities consider to be Greek,
regardless of whether or not the individual considers himself Greek, has
a foreign citizenship and passport, or was born or lives outside of
Greece. If remaining in Greece for more than the 90-day period
permitted for tourism or business, men of Greek descent may be prevented
from leaving Greece until they complete their military obligations.
Generally, obligatory non-voluntary military service in Greece will not
affect US citizenship. Specific questions on this subject should be
addressed to the citizenship section of the US Embassy in Athens. For
additional information, see our information on Citizenship and
Nationality. For additional information regarding military service
requirements, contact the nearest Greek embassy or consulate as listed
above.
Labor strikes in the transportation sector (national airline, city bus
lines, and taxis) occur frequently. Most are announced in advance and
are of short duration. Reconfirmation of domestic and international
flight reservations is highly recommended.
Users of public transportation in Athens should be sure to buy the
appropriate ticket and to validate it correctly, mindful that service to
the airport is more expensive than other bus and metro services and that
ticket inspectors circulate among passengers assuring compliance with
ticketing regulations. Fines are heavy for passengers without tickets
or with the wrong ticket.
The Government of Greece does not permit the photographing of military
installations; violators are subject to arrest.
Disaster Preparedness:
Greece often experiences serious forest fires during the summer, when
travelers should be particularly mindful of the risk of fires, taking
care not to inadvertently spark one through carelessness.
Greece experiences frequent seismic activity; tremors are common and
serious earthquakes have occurred. Detailed information on Greece's
earthquake fault lines is available from the U.S. Geological Survey
(USGS).
Disaster preparedness information and specific suggestions to help
mitigate the impact of wildfires, and earthquakes is available from the
U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). In any natural
disaster, follow the instructions of local authorities. The General
Secretariat for Civil Protection, which responds to emergencies, can be
reached at 210-3359932/33.
MEDICAL FACILITIES AND HEALTH INFORMATION: Medical facilities are
adequate, and some, particularly the private clinics and hospitals in
Athens and Thessaloniki, are quite good. Some private hospitals have
affiliations with U.S. facilities, and generally their staff doctors
have been trained in U.S. or other international teaching institutions.
Public medical clinics, especially on the islands, may lack resources;
care there can be inadequate by American standards, and often, little
English is spoken. Many patients, Greeks and visitors alike, are
transferred from the provinces and islands to Athens hospitals for more
sophisticated care. Others may choose to transfer from a public to a
private hospital within Athens or Thessaloniki. Americans choosing to
do so would arrange for an ambulance belonging to the private hospital
to transport them from the public hospital to the private one. The cost
of the ambulance for this transfer, as well as all expenses in a private
hospital, must be borne by the patient.
Nursing care, particularly in public hospitals, may be less than
adequate. For special or through-the-night nursing care, it is
suggested that a private nurse be hired or a family member or friend be
available to assist. One parent or a private nurse should always plan
to stay with a hospitalized child on a 24-hour basis, as even the best
hospitals generally maintain only a minimal nursing staff from midnight
to dawn on non-emergency floors or wards.
Information on vaccinations and other health precautions, such as safe
food and water precautions and insect bite protection, may be obtained
from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) hotline for
international travelers at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747) or via the
CDC website <http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/default.aspx> . For information
about outbreaks of infectious diseases abroad, consult the infectious
diseases section of the World Health Organization (WHO) website
<http://www.who.int/topics/infectious_diseases/en/> . The WHO website
also contains additional health information for travelers, including
detailed country-specific health information
<http://www.who.int/countries/en/> .
MEDICAL INSURANCE: The Department of State strongly urges U.S. citizens
to consult their medical insurance company prior to traveling abroad to
determine whether the policy applies overseas and whether it covers
emergency expenses such as a medical evacuation. For more information,
please see our medical insurance overseas page
<http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1470.html> .
TRAFFIC SAFETY AND ROAD CONDITIONS: 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 totally accurate in
a particular location or circumstance.
Drivers and pedestrians alike should exercise extreme caution when
operating motor vehicles or when walking along roadways or crossing
streets, mindful that Greece's traffic fatality rates are the fourth
highest in the 27 nations which make up the European Union. Visitors to
Greece must be prepared to drive defensively. Heavy traffic and poor
highways pose hazards, especially at night or in inclement weather.
Extreme care is warranted in operating a motorbike. Moreover, tourists
who rent motorbikes either on the Greek mainland or its islands must
wear helmets and take special precautions on local roads that are
typically poorly maintained and frequently pothole-ridden. There are a
number of nationwide auto-service clubs and plans similar to those in
the U.S., that provide towing and roadside service, which a tourist can
call and pay for per service. The largest, quite similar to AAA, is
ELPA, nation-wide phone number 10400.
Tourists and temporary residents who will stay in Greece less than 185
days must carry a valid U.S. license as well as an international
driver's permit (IDP). Failure to have both documents may result in
police detention or other problems. The U.S. Department of State has
designated two organizations to issue IDPs to those who hold valid U.S.
driver's licenses: AAA and the American Automobile Touring Alliance.
Issuance of an IDP is quickand inexpensive, but must generally be done
before a traveler leaves the United States. Vehicles may not properly
be rented without the IDP, although sometimes they are. A driver
without one, however, will be penalized for failure to have one in the
event of an accident, and may be open to civil suit as well. Fines are
high. Small motorbike rental firms frequently do not insure their
vehicles; customers are responsible for damages and should review their
coverage before renting. Individuals who expect to spend more than 185
days in Greece should either obtain a Greek license or convert their
valid U.S. license for use in Greece through their local Nomarchy's
Office of Transportation and Communications.
Please refer to our Road Safety page
<http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/safety/safety_1179.html> for more
information. Also, we suggest that you visit the website of the
country's national tourist office <http://www.gnto.gr/> .
AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration
(FAA) has assessed the government of Greece's Civil Aviation Authority
as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization
(ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Greece's air carrier
operations. Further information may be found on the FAA's safety
assessment page <http://www.faa.gov/about/initiatives/iasa/> .
CHILDREN'S ISSUES: Please see our Office of Children's Issues web pages
on intercountry adoption <http://adoption.state.gov/> and international
parental child abduction
<http://travel.state.gov/family/abduction/abduction_580.html> .
* * *
This replaces the Country Specific Information for Greece dated March
12, 2009, to update sections on Threats to Safety and Security, Crime,
Victim of Crime, Special Circumstances, Disaster Preparedness, and
Traffic Safety and Road Conditions.
This email is UNCLASSIFIED.
:laugh::laugh: