4-Day: FD20241128 Departure Dusseldorf Airport: Thanksgiving in Athens & the Greek Islands

Passport & Visa
A tourist passport is required for all trips outside of Germany.

Important passport rules are as follows:
If you have a passport with a SOFA stamp on any page (a “No-Fee” passport), you are provided permission to reside in Germany, NOT to travel outside of Germany. You have to have a tourist passport in addition to the SOFA/”No-Fee” passport to travel outside of Germany. You cannot travel with a RED Official passport as that is used only for the purpose of a mission or deployment. If you have a passport with a detachable SOFA card clipped inside, it is acceptable to travel with as that was issued originally as a tourist passport. If you are not sure: a tourist passport will be BLUE and will be valid for 10 years for adults. It cannot contain a SOFA stamp on any page or it is not acceptable. A child’s tourist passport (under 15 years of age) is valid for 5 years, but will not have a SOFA stamp in it anywhere. All of this information has been verified to be correct with the Grafenwoehr Passport Office.

Health
There are no major health risks when traveling to Greece. During the summer months, take proper care for sun exposure. Also, codeine (commonly found in headache medications) is banned in Greece, and you may face prosecution if you bring it into the country. While no vaccinations are required for entry into Turkey (on extension), it is always advisable to check with your doctor or health-care provider for the latest updates and overseas travel recommendations.

Transportation
Round-trip flights from Dusseldorf airport to Athens are included. All other included transportation is in Greece by private bus. In your free time, you may wish to explore the cities by public transportation. Despite the famed hustle and bustle of Athens, the city’s main attractions are easily accessed on foot. If you do need to use public transportation, however, there’s a brand-new metro system that was conveniently completed in time for the 2004 Olympics.

Baggage Allowance
· One checked luggage (liquids allowed): max weight up to 20kg (44.00 lb)
· One hand luggage: max weight up to 8kg (17.00 lb). Max size 40cm H (15”) x 25cm W (11”) x 20cm D (5.9”)

Clothing & Packing Tips
Due to the temperate climate, light, loose-fitting clothing that provides comfort when exploring the sights is essential for your tour. A sun hat, sunglasses and a sturdy pair of walking shoes are recommended for sightseeing. It’s always a good idea to be prepared for any eventuality—a lightweight sports jacket and emergency rainwear are advised. If you plan to visit an especially elegant restaurant or attend the opera or theater, you will probably feel more comfortable in something more formal. Also, remember that it is preferable not to visit churches or other religious sites with bare legs and shoulders (entrance may be denied on this basis).

Currency
The Euro is the currency you will be using on your trip. We strongly advise that you take a combination of bank/debit cards and credit cards. We suggest informing your bank and credit card company of your travel plans, so they don’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges.

Cuisine
One of the pleasures of traveling is the variety of local cuisine. Greece’s climate ensures a constant supply of high-quality fresh fruits and vegetables. Salads are excellent here, served with olive oil and topped with feta cheese and oregano. Grilled fish and meat are also a staple. Barbecued lamb, squid, octopus, spinach and cheese pies, baked eggplant and zucchini are other delicious dishes.

Tipping
At the conclusion of your trip, it’s customary to offer your Trip Leader a gratuity. We recommend tipping €1-2 per person per day for your Trip Leader. Tips can only be paid in cash.