Honeymoon panic - worst possible time
#46
A FlyerTalk Posting Legend
Join Date: Jul 2002
Location: MCI
Programs: AA Gold 1MM, AS MVP, UA Silver, WN A-List, Marriott LT Titanium, HH Diamond
Posts: 52,575
A mugging (the way most people envision it) is a completely different animal from a pickpocket or a purse snatcher, but that's neither here nor there. I'd take normal precautions with my bags and/or wallet in any tourist environment, but it wouldn't deter my travels.
From what I've read today, foreign credit cards are being accepted. The Euro limit at ATMs is *not* being imposed on foreigners, *if* you can find an ATM without a queue that still has cash in it. Perhaps possible inside a hotel?
The biggest concern is fuel. Lots of photos/videos of queues, but I don't know if that's a panic that will subside in a few days or a genuine shortage of fuel getting into the country.
From what I've read today, foreign credit cards are being accepted. The Euro limit at ATMs is *not* being imposed on foreigners, *if* you can find an ATM without a queue that still has cash in it. Perhaps possible inside a hotel?
The biggest concern is fuel. Lots of photos/videos of queues, but I don't know if that's a panic that will subside in a few days or a genuine shortage of fuel getting into the country.
#47
Join Date: Mar 2008
Posts: 661
I paid $900 for my flight from LAX-ATH and that was not even in peak season and booking months ahead (that same flight was $1400 about 3 weeks prior to departure date), it was end May which is considered shoulder season so what you are finding is actually a great deal... typical prices to Europe from North America during peak season are around $1000-1500
#48
Join Date: May 2004
Programs: BA blue, LH Senator, KQ (FB) gold
Posts: 8,215
Yes, but a mugging is more likely to have an impact on you psyche at a minimum and has the potential to cause you real physical harm. It is also easier to reduce your chances of a purse snatching/pickpocketing than a mugging.
#49
Original Poster
Join Date: Jan 2002
Location: YHZ
Posts: 281
Thanks again to all of you who offered advice and comments. I have taken them all to heart. And even tried to act on them.
Long story short, despite the fact that it was a great price, the tickets are not booked, and may not be. Although, if it were me making the trip, I'd love to be in Greece right now.
Bride continuing to make changes in plans, so I'm stepping back, and stand ready (within limits) with credit card when/if things ever get settled. Wedding is 3 weeks away, so have no idea how it will all play out.
Thanks again, to all of you!
Long story short, despite the fact that it was a great price, the tickets are not booked, and may not be. Although, if it were me making the trip, I'd love to be in Greece right now.
Bride continuing to make changes in plans, so I'm stepping back, and stand ready (within limits) with credit card when/if things ever get settled. Wedding is 3 weeks away, so have no idea how it will all play out.
Thanks again, to all of you!
#50
Join Date: Apr 2015
Posts: 52
The ATH airport ATMs seem to have no problem, so I am told by my friends over there.
#51
Join Date: Apr 2015
Posts: 52
Don't forget that using Heathrow as a connection adds up too, with their hideous departure taxes. A marked difference between via LHR, vs. other Euro-hubs or nonstop.
#52
Join Date: Apr 2015
Posts: 52
Also, the airport taxis do have surcharges for two things. Late night and the wee hours of the morning, for one. They really get you, if your flight leaves before 9am. The subway doesn't start operating from the city until 530am.
The taxis will also charge a surcharge for any bag that is larger than a rollerboard.