Travel Guides: All Countries / Europe / Greece / Saronic Islands
 |  | Fact File : Saronic Islands |
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| | | Saronic Islands | | Did you know?
The Saronic Gulf islands are named after mythical King Saron of Argos who drowned while chasing a deer which had run into the gulf waters.
Language
Greek.
Visas
None required for EU residents.
Getting there
Direct charter flights from UK to Athens. Ferry and hydrofoil routes operate throughout the group.
Flying time from London
Around three hours.
Getting around
Extensive inter-island ferry service. Some islands have no motorised transport and use water taxis, motorbikes and even donkeys.
Currency
Euro.
Costs
All prices may vary but as a rough guide: litre of petrol 50p, moderately-priced restaurant meal for one with wine £10, 24-exposure film £2.50, bottle of beer £1 and four-mile taxi ride about £3.
Weather
The Saronics enjoy a fairly typical Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers when temperatures can climb to 100F/37C, to mild winters with a minimum of 50F/10C.
Time difference
Three hours ahead of the UK.
International dialling code from the UK
00 30 for Greece followed by island code.
Voltage
220 volts, 50Hz - you'll need an adaptor for the standard continental two-pin plug.
Opening hours
Banks open 8am-2pm Monday-Thursday and 8.30am-1.30pm Friday. Post offices open 7.30am-8pm and till 2pm on Saturday. Shops vary from seven days a week to some closing for very long lunches.
Health - before you go
UK citizens are covered for health care on production of form EHIC (from post offices). Emergency treatment is free in hospital (though relatives must take food in for patients). However, the health service in Greece is very underfunded and one of the poorest in Europe so if you'd prefer private treatment, travel insurance is essential.
Health - when you are there
Tap water is safe to drink. Sunburn is the biggest danger so slap on the sun lotion and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
Warnings
In July and August, the meltemi (the strong northerly wind which often springs up without warning) can play havoc with ferry schedules and sailors should check forecasts regularly.
Emergency
Tel 166. British Embassy Ploutarhou 1, Athens 106 75. Tel 723 6211.
Customs
On Spetses, Easter celebrations include the burning of a fishing boat to symbolise Christ's resurrection and the burning of an effigy of Judas.
Pets
You may bring your pet to and from the UK provided you have the correct documentation under the Pet Travel Scheme - see your vet for details.
Tipping
Service is included on restaurant bills but it is customary to leave a small tip, also with taxis.
Tourist office
Hellenic Tourism Organisation, 4 Conduit Street, London, W1R 0DJ. Tel. 020 7495 9300.
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| | Available rental properties in Saronic Islands |
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| |  | | Hydra Island Heritage Home
Hydra Island Heritage Home
4/BR Renovated 200 Yr. Old Solid Stone Villa
Walking Distance from Port
Gorgeous Greek Traditional Decor
|  | | Appartments Skantzos
A beautifull quite place to relax, on the most beautifull island of Peloponesse!
|  | | melivea resort
Six luxurious traditional villas, surrounded from three swimming pools and flourishing gardens. Each villa is capable of hosting a maximum of 8 people.
|  | | melivea resort
Six luxurious traditional villas, surrounded from three swimming pools and flourishing gardens. Each villa is capable of hosting a maximum of 8 people.
|  | | melivea resort
Six luxurious traditional villas, surrounded from three swimming pools and flourishing gardens. Each villa is capable of hosting a maximum of 8 people
| | Click here for more properties... |
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