The country that gave the world democracy and Greek tragedies is no sober country. Greece is famed for its partying as well as ancient ruins found everywhere.
13 February 2008
Name: Greece
Location: Southern Europe, bordering the Aegean Sea, Ionian Sea and the Mediterranean Sea, between Albania and Turkey. Also borders Bulgaria and Macedonia.
Comprises: 1400 islands. Crete is the largest island.
Population: 11 million (UN, 2005)
Capital: Athens
Area: 131,957 sq km (50,949 sq miles)
Major language: Greek
Major religion: Christianity
Life expectancy: 76 years (men), 81 years (women) (UN)
Monetary unit: 1 Euro = 100 cents
Main exports: Textiles and clothing, food, oil products
GNI per capita: US $13,720 (World Bank, 2003)
Internet domain: .gr
International dialling code:
Time Zone: GMT +2
Climate: Summers are long and hot - average 32C (87F) - so it's best to go then. During the mild but wet winters (15C /59F), many tourist facilities shut, especially on the islands.
Tipping: Service is included in restaurants but it is not compulsory for this to be paid to the waiter/ess. Adding 8-10% is the rule of thumb. In taxis, round up the far to the nearest euro.