As the Greek government enters a week of economic uncertainty, Flight Centre South Africa has issued an advisory to all South Africans planning to visit the financially embattled country to ensure that they take sufficient cash.
Greek banks were closed on Monday (29 June 2015) after the government implemented capital controls and are expected to remain closed for the rest of the week, at least. While ATMs are expected to reopen on Tuesday (30 June), there will be a daily limit of €60 on ATM cash withdrawals, and capital controls are likely to last for many months.
Andrew Stark, MD of Flight Centre SA, says while the €60 restriction on withdrawals does not apply to people who hold bank cards from non-Greek banks, travellers should be aware that it may be difficult to find a working ATM.
He said most Greek businesses will have no reason not to accept cards issued by non-Greek institutions.
"We do, however, advise our customers to make sure they have enough euros in cash to cover emergencies, unforeseen circumstances and any unexpected delays," he says.
Flight Centre also advises travellers to:
Avoid public gatherings and demonstrations, and stay away from areas where they can occur
Monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities
Be extra-vigilant when travelling with large amounts of cash, and check whether their hotel or resort provides security boxes for this purpose"Flight Centre will, on behalf of its customers, be checking with local accommodation and transport providers what contingencies are in place to assist tourists, and advise travellers to also check with any inland travel companies they may have booked with that services are still running," says Stark.
Flight Centre customers are invited to contact the travel expert they originally dealt with or alternatively call 0877 40 50 80 or email az.oc.ertnecthgilf@eracremotsuc.
